bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Diurnal Modulation Characteristic of Wind Speed and Power Generation Revealed by Its Actual Measurement Data Information Processing
Authors: Wan Jie , Fan Shuangshuang , Yao Kun , Han Ke , E Peng , Yu Jilai
Published: December 2021

Atmospheric turbulence is an intrinsic factor that causes uncertainty of wind speed and its power generation by wind turbine. The research of atmospheric turbulence characteristics of wind farms can be used to reduce this uncertainty. In this paper, enough measurement data getting from actual wind farms is used for information processing to quantitatively analyze the daily variation of wind speed and its power output characteristics. Furthermore, the concept of spatiotemporal diurnal modulation characteristics of atmospheric turbulence is proposed with a global scope, which is an intrinsic property of wind. Besides the daily weather processes, the average hourly wind speed has a short-term modulation effect on its turbulence and provides a modulation characteristic on wind speed uncertainty. Moreover, the long-term modulation process is affected by seasonal and regional factors, indicating that it has spatiotemporal characteristics. This atmospheric turbulence characteristic has similar effects on characteristic description parameters. However, the characteristics description parameters of wind speed and wind power variation fail to reflect such intrinsic characteristics that are not affected by the spatiotemporal diurnal modulation characteristics of atmospheric turbulence. This indicates that they do not have diurnal characteristics. Finally, the application of spatiotemporal diurnal modulation characteristics on the evaluation of frequency control in power systems is discussed. The results show that this method can effectively improve the power generation quality of large-scale wind power.
Natural and Anthropogenic Sources of Cadmium in Cacao Crop Soils in Santander, Colombia
Authors: Joya-Barrero Valentina , Huguet Carme , Pearse Jillian
Published: December 2021

Cadmium (Cd) levels in cacao products from Santander, the main producing area in Colombia, are well above those permitted for export of cocoa products and may pose a potential health hazard. High Cd in cacao is related to the high content of the metal in beans, which in turn is linked to high concentrations of Cd in soils. Geochemical and petrographic analyses of fertilizer, soil and rock samples from three farms were carried out to determine the sources of Cd and soil characteristics that can affect its bioavailability, in order to identify strategies that may reduce Cd in cocoa. Autochthonous natural sources determine the Cd concentration in soils, with a high correlation between elevated Cd in sedimentary parental rocks and soil metal levels. While no industrial or mining inputs were present, an organic fertilizer was identified as a great allochthonous source of Cd in soils. High levels in the fertilizer were probably due to bioaccumulation of the element, since it was sourced from animals in the same area. The addition of crop waste to fertilize the soil may further contribute bioavailable Cd. Even though the pH range, high OM content and presence of Mn and K all diminish bioavailability, the high metal content in the farm soils still results in significant uptake by the cocoa plants and accumulation in the beans. We suggest that phytoremediation and biological amendments, as well as testing of fertilizers before application, could all be cost-effective solutions to reduce Cd levels in the final product.
Genomic Features of Chinese Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhao Zhuxiang , Li Binkai , Zhao Ziwen
Published: December 2021

Background: Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive disease with poor survival. Although molecular and clinical characteristics have been established for SCLC in western patients, limited investigation has been performed for Chinese SCLC patients.Objective: In this study, we investigated the genomic features of Chinese SCLC patients.Methods: A total of 75 SCLC patients were enrolled. Genomic alterations in 618 selected genes were analyzed by targeted next-generation sequencing.Results: Here, we showed that TP53 (77.30%) and RB1 (30.70%) were the most prevalent genes, followed by KMT2D, ALK, LRP1B, EGFR, NOTCH3, AR, CREBBP, ROS1, and BRCA2. And the most common genetic alterations were enriched in the cell cycle signaling pathway (84.00%) of Chinese SCLC patients. DNA damage repair (DDR) pathway analysis showed that the most frequently enriched DDR pathways were fanconi anaemia (FA, 29.41%) and homology recombination (HR, 21.57%). Notably, 9.33% SCLC patients in our cohort had pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline gene variants. Compared with the U Cologne cohort, a higher prevalence in EGFR, AR, BRCA2, TSC1, ATXN3, MET, MSH2, ERBB3 and FOXA1 were found in our cohort; while compared to the data from the Johns Hopkins cohort, a higher mutated frequency in TP53, KMT2D, ALK, and EGFR were found in our cohort. Moreover, a significant association was found between high tumor mutation burden (TMB) and mutations involved in TP53, CREBBP, EPHA3, KMT2D, ALK and RB1. Approximately 33.33% of patients with SCLC harbored at least one actionable alteration annotated by OncoKB, of which one patient had alterations of level 1; seventeen patients had level 3; fifteen patients possessed level 4.Conclusion: Our data might provide an insightful meaning in targeted therapy for Chinese SCLC patients.
Evaluation of Levetiracetam for Early Post-Traumatic Seizure Prophylaxis: A Level II Trauma Center Experience
Authors: Amin Timothy A. , Nerenberg Steven F. , Elsawy Osama A. , Wang Antai , Johnston Jackie P.
Published: December 2021

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can induce early or late post-traumatic seizures (PTS). While PTS incidence is low, prophylaxis is used despite a lack of consensus on agent or duration. Levetiracetam (LEV) for early PTS prophylaxis is preferred due to its safety and efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate LEV for early PTS prophylaxis.Methods: A single-center, retrospective chart review of TBI patients > 18 years who received LEV for early PTS prophylaxis between August 2018 - July 2019. The primary outcome was LEV duration. Secondary outcomes were incidence of seizure, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay (LOS).Results: Of the 137 included, mean age was 59±20 years and 69.3% were male. The mean admission GCS was 13±4 and 77.4% had mild TBI. Median LEV duration was 7 (IQR 4-10) days and 13.9% met recommended 7-day duration. Those prescribed LEV > 7 days had more than twice the median LEV duration than those prescribed ≤ 7 days (10.25 (8.5-15.5) vs 4 (1.5-4.5) days, p < 0.0001). EEG-confirmed PTS occurred in 2.2%, with an early PTS incidence of 0.73%. Median ICU and hospital LOS were 2 (IQR 1-7) and 7 (IQR 3-16) days, respectively. Conclusions: The incidence of PTS was low as most patients in our study had mild or moderate TBI. Early PTS prophylaxis with LEV for 7 days is appropriate, although the majority of patients did not meet the recommended duration. Efforts to standardize and implement PTS prophylaxis protocols are needed.
Psychometric Properties and Hidden Dimensionality of the Sinhala Version of End Stage Renal Disease Adherence Questionnaire (SINESRD-AQ) Among Patients Receiving Haemodialysis in a Selected Hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Lasanthika Chalani , Wanigasuriya Kamani , Hettiaratchi Usha , Amarasekara Thamara , Goonewardena Sampatha
Published: December 2021

BackgroundAdherence to a complex therapeutic regimen is crucial to maintain the quality of life of patients receiving haemodialysis. End Stage Renal Disease Adherence Questionnaire (ESRD-AQ) is a valid and most widely used instrument to assess all dimensions of treatment adherence among patients receiving in-center haemodialysis. Though the precise evaluation is fundamental, availability of valid and reliable instruments to evaluate treatment adherence is limited in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of Sinhala translated version of ESRD-AQ.MethodsThe translation and cultural adaptation of ESRD-AQ underwent forward and back translation, expert committee consolidation and pretesting among patients (n=10). Face and content validity were evaluated with a panel of experts (n=6) and group of patients (n=10). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed to evaluate construct validity of two subscales of SINESRD-AQ. Subsequent Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA) was performed to identify a more parsimonious dimensionality to assess treatment adherence behaviors among patients. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura and Teaching Hospital, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka. ResultsA total of 150 patients with mean age of 54.08±10.78 (±SD) years were included. Majority were males (72.7%). Excellent face and content validity of SINESRD-AQ was reported. The CFA of two subscales of ESRD-AQ demonstrated barely acceptable model fit (SRMR=0.120, CFI=0.913, GFI=0.997, AGFI=0.996, NNFI=0.896). Subsequent CATPCA revealed new dimensionality with five components explaining 74% of the total variance. Convergent validity of new dimensionality was confirmed with Composite Reliability (CR) and Average Variance Extracted (AVE) with the values greater than 0.7 and 0.5 respectively. According to the Fornell Larcker criterion (1971), the square root of AVEs of components were greater than the inter component correlations and heterotrait-monotrait values were less than the threshold of 0.85 demonstrated the discriminant validity of new dimensionality.ConclusionSINESRD-AQ is a valid and a reliable instrument to assess treatment adherence behaviors among Sinhala speaking patients receiving haemodialysis in Sri Lanka. A follow-up CFA is to be performed to confirm the revised dimensionality of SINESRD-AQ.
Development and Validation of Multicenter Study on Novel Artificial Intelligence Based Cardiovascular Risk Score (AICVD)
Authors: Kumar Shiv , Gupta Prashant , Dekker Andre L.A.J. , Bermejo Inigo , Kar Sujoy
Published: December 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are one of the most prevalent diseases in India amounting for nearly 30% of total deaths. A dearth of research on CVD risk scores in Indian population, limited performance of conventional risk scores and inability to reproduce the initial accuracies in randomized clinical trials – has led to this study on large-scale patient data. The objective is to develop an Artificial Intelligence based Risk Score (AICVD) to predict CVD Event (e.g. Acute MI / ACS) in next 10 years and compare the model with the Framingham Heart Risk Score (FHRS) and QRisk3.Our study included 31,599 participants aged 18-91 years from 2009 - 2018 in six Apollo Hospitals in India. A multi-step risk factors selection process using Spearman correlation coefficient and propensity score matching yielded 21 risk factors. A Deep Learning Hazard Model was built on risk factors to predict event occurrence (classification) and time to event (hazard model) using multi-layered neural network. Further, the model was validated with independent retrospective cohorts of participants from India and the Netherlands and compared with FHRS and QRisk3.The Deep Learning Hazard model had a good performance (AUC 0.853). Validation and comparative results showed AUCs between 0.84 to 0.92 with better Positive Likelihood Ratio (AICVD-6.16 to FHRS–2.24 and QRisk3–1.16) and Accuracy (AICVD– 80.15% to FHRS 59.71% and QRisk3 51.57%). In the Netherlands cohort, AICVD also outperformed the Framingham Heart Risk Model (AUC - 0.737 vs 0.707).This study concludes that the novel AI based CVD risk score has a higher predictive performance for cardiac events than conventional risk scores.
Intraoperative Mild Hyperoxia May be Associated with Improved Survival After Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Ju Jae-Woo , Choe Hyun Woo , Bae Jinyoung , Lee Seohee , Cho Youn Joung , Nam Karam , Jeon Yunseok
Published: December 2021

Background: The effect of hyperoxia due to supplemental oxygen administration on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery remains unclear. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the relationship between intraoperative oxygen tension and mortality after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB).Methods: The study included adult patients who underwent isolated OPCAB between July 2010 and June 2020. Patients were categorised into three groups based on their intraoperative time-weighted average arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO2): normoxia/near-normoxia (<150 mmHg), mild hyperoxia (150–250 mmHg), and severe hyperoxia (>250 mmHg). The risk of in-hospital mortality was compared using weighted logistic regression analysis. Restricted cubic spline analysis was performed to analyse intraoperative PaO2 as a continuous variable. The risk of cumulative all-cause mortality was compared using Cox regression analysis.Results: The normoxia/near-normoxia, mild hyperoxia, and severe hyperoxia groups included 229, 991, and 173 patients (n=1,393), respectively. The mild hyperoxia group had a significantly lower risk of in-hospital mortality than the normoxia/near-normoxia (odds ratio [OR], 0.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06–0.22) and severe hyperoxia groups (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.03–0.14). Intraoperative PaO2 exhibited a U-shaped relationship with in-hospital mortality in the non-hypoxic range. The risk of cumulative all-cause mortality was significantly lower in the mild hyperoxia group (hazard ratio, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.52–0.99) than in the normoxia/near-normoxia group.Conclusions: Intraoperative mild hyperoxia was associated with a lower risk of mortality after OPCAB than normoxia, near-normoxia, or severe hyperoxia. Mildly increasing arterial oxygen tension during OPCAB may help to optimise postoperative outcomes.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Integrated Analysis of Helicobacter Pylori-Related Prognostic Gene Modification Patterns in the Tumour Microenvironment of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wang Ye , Zheng kaitian , Wang Jiancheng , Wang congjun , Chen Junqiang
Published: December 2021

Background
Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection is one of the leading causes of gastric cancer (GC). However, the interaction between HP and the TME, and its carcinogenic mechanism remains unknown.
Methods
We screened 28 HP-related prognostic genes based on HP infection-related gene markers and HP infection sample datasets (GSE6143 and GSE60662). We then constructed an HPscore system by using the principal component analysis algorithm and successfully quantified the HP modification characteristics of a single GC sample. In addition, we comprehensively analysed the relationship between the HPscore and the clinical characteristics of patients with GC, the immune cell infiltration characteristics of the TME and stemness.
Results
We successfully identified 28 HP-related prognostic genes that accurately classified the GC population. There are significant differences in survival between different subgroups(high-, low-risk and cluster_1,2). Thereafter, we constructed the HPscore system to systematically evaluate the modification characteristics of the 28 HP-related prognostic genes, and the internal and external validation of the HPscore system suggested similar results: the overall survival rate in the high -HPscore group was poor, and immunological surveillance was reduced, whereas the low-HPscore group had a survival advantage, and was related to the inflammatory response. HPscore was also strongly correlated with the tumour stage, TME cell infiltration and stemness.
Conclusions
HP-modified characteristics play a crucial role in the TME and tumourigenesis. HPscore evaluation of a single tumour sample can help identify the TME characteristics and the carcinogenic mechanism of GC patients infected with HP, based on which personalised treatment can be administered.
Validation of the Hospital Frailty Risk Score among older adults receiving mechanical ventilation
Authors: Sy Eric , Kassir Sandy , Mailman Jonathan F , Sy Sarah Lauren
Published: December 2021

Background:Older adults are increasingly being admitted to intensive care units, with frailty recognized as a risk factor for worse outcomes. The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) was developed for use in administrative databases of older adults, but it has not yet been well-validated for critically ill patients. The objective of this study was to validate the HFRS to predict prolonged hospitalization, in-hospital mortality, and 30-day emergency hospital readmissions in critically ill patients.Methods:We selected index hospitalizations of older adults (≥75 years old) receiving mechanical ventilation, using the United States Nationwide Readmissions Database from January 1, 2016 to November 30, 2018. Frailty risk was determined by the HFRS using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes, and further subcategorized into low (score <5), intermediate (score 5-15), and high (score >15) risk for frailty. We evaluated the HFRS to predict prolonged hospitalization, in-hospital mortality, and 30-day emergency hospital readmissions, using multivariable logistic regression after adjustment for patient and hospital characteristics. Model performance was assessed using the c-statistic, Brier score, and calibration plots.Results:Among the 649,330 weighted index hospitalizations in the cohort, 50.0% were female, the median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 81 (78-86) years old, and the median (IQR) HFRS was 10.8 (7.7-14.5). Among the cohort, 9.5%, 68.3%, and 22.2% were subcategorized as low, intermediate, and high risk for frailty, respectively. After adjustment, patient hospitalizations with high frailty risk were associated with increased risks of prolonged hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.59 [95% confidence interval [CI] 5.24-5.97], c-statistic 0.694, Brier score 0.216) and 30-day emergency hospital readmissions (aOR 1.20 [95% CI 1.13-1.27], c-statistic 0.595, Brier score 0.162), compared to low frailty risks. Conversely, high frailty risk using the HFRS was inversely associated with in-hospital mortality (aOR 0.46 [95% CI 0.45-0.48], c-statistic 0.712, Brier score 0.214). Calibration plots demonstrated good calibration for the adjusted analyses.Conclusions:The HFRS is associated with prolonged hospitalization and 30-day readmission in older adults receiving mechanical ventilation. Further research is necessary to develop frailty scores that accurately and intuitively predict mortality in critically ill patients.
Visual outcomes after bilateral implantation of Versario intraocular lenses – six month follow-up
Authors: Podboraczynska-Jodko Karolina , Lubiński Wojciech
Published: December 2021

PurposeTo study visual outcomes after implantation of Versario intraocular lenses (IOLs) Patients and MethodsIn 20 selected patients (40 eyes) uneventful, bilateral cataract surgeries with implantation of trifocal Versario (IOLs) were performed. Designprospective case series. Six months after surgery the following parameters were analysed: binocular uncorrected visual acuities (log MAR): for distance (UDVA) at 4 m, for intermediate (UIVA) at 60, 70, 80 cm and for near (UNVA) at 40 cm, photopic defocus curve, mesopic and photopic contrast sensitivities (CSs), spectacle independence, visual function test questionnaire (modified VFQ-25), subjective symptoms and postoperative complications. ResultsSix months after surgery, the mean of binocular visual acuities were as follows: UDVA: -0.12 ± 0.08; UIVA (60 cm): +0.07 ± 0.10, (70 cm): +0.05 ± 0.11, (80cm): +0.07 ± 0.09; UNVA (40cm): +0.12 ± 0.08. CSs in mesopic and scotopic conditions for distance and photopic for near were between normal range of age- match healthy control. All patients were spectacle independent. General satisfaction was high and equal 9.37±0.83. No severe glare and halo were detected. There were no postoperative complications. ConclusionsThe bimanual MICS with the Versario lenses implantation was a safe and effective method for patients who want to be spectacle independent at different distances.
Novel Immune Subtypes Identification of HER2 Positive Breast Cancer Based On Immunogenomic Landscape
Authors: Huang Lingli , Liu Xin , Li Li , Wang Lei , Wu Nan , Liu Zhixian
Published: December 2021

Background: HER2 positive BC is heterogeneous. But few studies discussed the classification of HER2 positive BC based on immune-related signatures.Methods: Using two publicly BC genomics datasets, we classified HER2 positive BC based on 33 immune-related signatures and used unsupervised machine learning methods to predict and perform the classification.Results: We grouped three HER2 positive BC subtypes that we called Immune-High (IM-H), Immune-Medium (IM-M), and Immune-Low (IM-L), and manifested this categorization was predictable, duplicable and reliable by analyzing another dataset. Compared to other subtypes, IM-H had a higher immune cell infiltration level and stronger anti-tumor immune activities, as well as better clinical survival outcome. Besides these signatures, there were some cancer-related pathways which were hyperactivated in IM-H, including cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, antigen processing and presentation pathways, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation, chemokine signaling pathway, Th17 cell differentiation, B and T cell receptor signaling, NF-kappa B signaling, PD-L1 expression and PD-1 checkpoint pathway in cancer, TNF signaling, IL-17 signaling, NOD-like receptor signaling and Toll-like receptor signaling. By contrast, IM-L showed depressed immune-related signatures and enhanced activation of lycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchor biosynthesis and mismatch repair. Moreover, we discovered a gene co-expression network focused on eight transcription factor genes (EOMES, TBX21, GFI1, IRF4, POU2AF1, CIITA, FOXP3 and TOX) and one tumor suppress gene (PRF1), which were closely related with tumor immune.Conclusion: We identified three HER2 positive BC subtypes based on immune-related signatures, which had potential clinical implications and promoted the optimal stratification of HER2 positive BC responsive to immunotherapy.
Advanced Healthcare Services Leading to Relax Natural Selection May Have Been Contributing to Global and Regional Increase of Dementia Incidence
Authors: You Wenpeng , Henneberg Renata , Henneberg Maciej
Published: December 2021

BackgroundAgeing and genetic traits can only explain the increasing dementia incidence partially. Advanced healthcare services allowing dementia patients to survive natural selection (die of dementia) and pass their genes onto their next generation. MethodsCountry-speciﬁc estimates of dementia incidence rates (all ages and 15-49 years old), Biology State Index (Is) expressing reduced natural selection, ageing indexed by life expectancy e(65), GDP PPP and urbanization were obtained for analysing the global and regional correlations between reduced natural selection and dementia incidence rate with SPSS v. 27. Results Worldwide, both Is significantly, but inversely, correlated to dementia incidence rates for both populations in bivariate correlations. These relationships remained in the populations of all ages and 15-49 years old regardless of the competing contributing effects from ageing, GDP and urbanization in partial correlation model. Enter multiple linear regression showed that Is was the significant predictor of dementia incidence in populations of all ages and 15-49 years old. Subsequently, Is was selected as the variable having the greatest influence on dementia incidence in stepwise multiple linear regression. Is corelated to dementia incidence more strongly in developed population groupings. ConclusionsWorldwide, reduced natural selection may be another the significant contributor to the increasing dementia incidence with special regard to developed population.
Efficacy and Safety of De-Escalation of Anti-Platelet Therapy after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Bai Nan , Ma Ying , Niu Ying , Zhong Pengyu , Shang Yaosheng , Wang Zhilu
Published: December 2021

Purpose: This meta-analysis was conducted to study the efficacy and safety of switching from potent P2Y12 inhibitors to clopidogrel, because there is no definite conclusion on the strategy.Method: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, and compared the efficacy and safety of de-escalation or not of anti-platelet therapy. The relevant randomized controlled trials were included by searching several databases. Net adverse clinical events were identified as the composite endpoint, which was defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, revascularization, stroke and bleeding at 12 months after ACS. The efficacy endpoints were cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, revascularization, stroke, all-cause death and stent thrombosis. Bleeding was designed as the safety endpoint. The relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of endpoint events were calculated by the fixed effects model. Result: Six randomized controlled trials with 7627 patients met inclusion criteria. There were significant differences in the risk of net adverse clinical events (RR 0.67, CI 0.58–0.78, P < 0.00001), and bleeding endpoint (0.61, 0.52–0.71, P < 0.00001) between the two groups. However, there were no significant differences in the risk of all efficacy endpoints.Conclusions: The strategy of de-escalation from prasugrel/ticagrelor to clopidogrel can reduce the incidence of net adverse clinical events and bleeding events in patients with ACS undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (Registered by PROSPERO at July 04 2021, ID 265782).
The Detection of Wetlands And Wetland Fragmentation Using Sentinel 1 And 2 Imagery: The Example of Southern Nigeria
Authors: Garba Sani Idris , Ebmeier Susanna , Bastin Jean-François , Mollicone Danilo , Holden Joseph
Published: December 2021

Wetland ecosystems play key roles in global biogeochemical cycling, but their spatial extent and connectivity is often not well known. Here, we describe an approach suitable for application on a 1000 km scale using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 imagery, exploiting the implementation of Random Forest algorithm in Google Earth Engine. The approach was used to detect the spatial coverage of wetland types focusing on the case of southern Nigeria, thought to be one of the most wetland-rich areas of Africa. We compiled 1050 wetland and non-wetland control points for algorithm training and validation, primarily from visual interpretation of high-resolution (<1 m pixel) imagery. This allowed us to establish the relative importance of 18 input channels derived from Sentinel-1 polarimetric and Sentinel-2 indices for classification of wetland. We estimate that the swamps, marshes, mangroves, and shallow water wetlands of southern Nigeria cover 29,900 km² with 2% uncertainty of 460 km². We found larger mangrove and smaller marsh extent than suggested by earlier, coarser spatial resolution studies. Average continuous wetland patch areas were 120 km², 11 km², 55 km² and 13 km² for mangrove, marsh, swamp, and shallow water respectively. Our final map with 10 m pixels also captures small patches of wetland, with 20% of wetland patches being <1 km2; these were clustered around urban centres, suggesting anthropogenic wetland fragmentation. Our approach can now be used across rest of Africa and globally to detect wetlands and wetland change which, in turn, will be crucial for improved land-surface climate models and wetland conservation.
Can a Whole-Body Vibration Program Potentialize the Benefits of a Psychomotor Intervention Program in Community-Dwelling Older Adults At Risk of Falling? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rosado Hugo , Pereira Catarina , Bravo Jorge , Carvalho Joana , Raimundo Armando
Published: December 2021

Background

To evaluate the effects of two interactive cognitive-motor programs in processing speed, lower-body strength, and body composition in community dwellings at risk of falling.
Methods

Forty-eight community dwellings (75.0 ± 5.4 years) completed this randomized controlled trial, were allocated into three groups: 1) experimental group 1 (EG1: psychomotor intervention program); 2) experimental group 2 (EG2: combined program [psychomotor intervention program + whole-body vibration]); and 3) control group (kept their daily life routines). Participants were assessed at baseline, at post-24-week intervention, and after a 12-week no-intervention follow-up.
Results

Significant improvements were induced by EGs programs in processing speed, lower-body strength, and bone mass (p < 0.05). The treatment effect was similar in both EGs in processing speed and lower-body strength, and higher in bone mineral content and density within EG2. The number of falls decreased by 44.2% in EG1 and 63% in EG2 (p < 0.05). After the follow-up, improvements in processing speed were maintained, particularly in EG2, but were reversed in lower-body strength in both EGs, as were in bone mineral content and density, particularly within EG2 (p < 0.05).
Conclusions

Both interactive cognitive-motor programs were accepted and well tolerated by the participants, inducing similar improvements in cognitive and physical functions and decreased the fall rate. Additionally, the combined program led to additional benefits in bone mass. This evidenced that both programs were effective for fall and injury prevention.
Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03446352, registered on 26/02/2018.
An Assessment of Recreational Functions of Botanical Parks in Urban Ecosystems
Authors: Akdeniz Nilufer Seyidoglu , Yener S. Doganay
Published: December 2021

In the changing world, pandemics have entered human life and people want to relieve the stress and relax that these new living conditions they meet. Parks in the urban ecosystem are one of the indispensable elements in this sense. In this context, while botanical parks contribute to the urban ecosystem, they also meet the recreational needs of people.In this study, a survey was carried out for assessing the recreational quality of Bakırköy Botanical Park in Bakırköy, Istanbul, which is Turkey’s most important metropolitan city. The results of the survey reveal that the users perceived Bakırköy Botanical Park as an urban park, and the findings reveal that young users (26-35 years old) visited the park mostly within 1-3 hours. In addition to being a park to get away from the crowd (78.00%) in terms of comfort and image, the presence of children’s playgrounds is also considered an important recreational function for users (66.80%). Although the park has some deficiencies in terms of reinforcement elements and negligence, observations exhibited that it cannot fulfill its education and research functions adequately as a botanical park. Hence, the plants in the park must have labels. It would be an appropriate approach to make the necessary arrangements for Bakırköy Botanical Park to maintain both its recreational and educational functions, and to consider the protection-use balance in the arrangements.
Gastrointestinal Parasitosis and Anemia Monitoring in the Child Population of Villa Clarín, Colombia
Authors: Vásquez Rubén Darío Macías , Vesga Darling María Guzmán , Rivaldo María Ripoll , Arias Elkyn Rafael Lugo , Arias José Luis Lugo , Pacheco Mario de la Puente
Published: December 2021

BackgroundThere is limited non-anecdotal literature on the effectiveness of health policies and the prevalence of childhood anemia in rural communities in the Colombian Caribbean region. The objective of the following study is to report a parasitological and hematological episode of 94 children belonging to the child population of Villa Clarín, Colombia, and reinforce the disposable literature of local care reports.Case presentationThis article studies an event of intestinal parasitosis prevalence and anemia in 94 children between 1 and 11 years of age, grouped into three age ranges of 1 to 3 years, 4 to 6 years, and 7 to 11 years of age respectively, from the rural community of Villa Clarín, Colombia. Blood samples were obtained by venipuncture and processed through a complete blood count. The feces were collected by spontaneous evacuation and analyzed using a spontaneous sedimentation technique. The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 96.81%. ConclusionsEight of the 91 children in whom intestinal parasites were detected had anemia while 29 were above the normal levels of hemoglobin. An association was found with E. histolytica / dispar, but not with A. lumbricoides, T. trichiura, S. stercolaris, Uncinaria, Taenia sp, H. nana, H. diminuta, G. lamblia, T. hominis or B. hominis. The high prevalence of intestinal parasitosis and the anemia levels indicate deficiencies in environmental sanitation and hygienic-sanitary measures.
Interleukin-6 Differential Expression in Cancer Patients of Different Clinical Stages; a Possible Biomarker of Cancer Progression
Authors: Bello Abosede Obafunke , Obadipe John Abiodun , Adewusi Oluwabanke Temitope , Ayanshina Anthony Oluwamuyiwa
Published: December 2021

PurposeThe study investigated interleukin-6 expression pattern across all stages of cancer. The research questions raised in the study were: Is there differential expression of Interleukin-6 across all cancer stages? and what relationship exists between serum interleukin-6 level and cancer stage?Methods The prospective case-control study comprised sixty two (62) purposively selected cancer participants across all stages and age range 18 years to 72years as well equal number of healthy volunteers from two medical centres in Nigeria. Three milliliters (3mls) of blood samples was collected intravenously from the participants and centrifuged after 30 minutes of collection at 3000rpm for 10 minutes to obtain serum. The serum level of Interleukin-6 was determined spectrophotometrically by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data obtained were expressed as mean and standard error of the mean. One way Analysis of variance and t-test were employed to test for significance difference between the groups and the significant level was considered at P< 0.05. ResultsFindings from the study revealed significant (P< 0.05) higher mean serum interleukin-6 levels in stage IV cancer participants as compared to other disease stages. In the same way, significant higher mean Interleukin-6 level of stage III cancer participants as compared to that of stage I cancer participants was observed. Furthermore, the study revealed a significant correlation (P< 0.01) between serum Interleukin 6 concentration and cancer stage.Conclusion Serum interleukin-6 had differential expression in cancer patients at advanced clinical stage as compared to that of early disease stage.
Invertebrate DNA Methylation and Gene Regulation
Authors: Dixon Groves , Matz Mikhail
Published: December 2021

BackgroundAs human activity alters the planet, there is a pressing need to understand how organisms adapt to environmental change. Of growing interest in this area is the role of epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, in tailoring gene expression to fit novel conditions. Here, we reanalyzed nine invertebrate (Anthozoa and Hexapoda) datasets to validate a key prediction of this hypothesis: changes in DNA methylation in response to some condition correlate with changes in gene expression. ResultsWhile we detected both differential methylation and differential expression, there was no simple relationship between these differences. ConclusionIf changes in DNA methylation regulate invertebrate transcription, the mechanism does not follow a simple linear relationship.
Image Mosaic Research and Realization Based on LoFTR Algorithm
Authors: Tian Aikui , Wang Kangtao , zhang liye , Wei Bingcai
Published: December 2021

Aiming at the problem of inaccurate extraction of feature points by the traditional image matching method, low robustness, and problems such as diffculty in inentifying feature points in area with poor texture. This paper proposes a new local image feature matching method, which replaces the traditional sequential image feature detection, description and matching steps. First, extract the coarse features with a resolution of 1/8 from the original image, then tile to a one-dimensional vector plus the positional encoding, feed them to the self-attention layer and cross-attention layer in the Transformer module, and finally get through the Differentiable Matching Layer and confidence matrix, after setting the threshold and the mutual closest standard, a Coarse-Level matching prediction is obtained. Secondly the fine matching is refined at the Fine-level match, after the Fine-level match is established, the image overlapped area is aligned by transforming the matrix to a unified coordinate, and finally the image is fused by the weighted fusion algorithm to realize the unification of seamless mosaic of images. This paper uses the self-attention layer and cross-attention layer in Transformers to obtain the feature descriptor of the image. Finally, experiments show that in terms of feature point extraction, LoFTR algorithm is more accurate than the traditional SIFT algorithm in both low-texture regions and regions with rich textures. At the same time, the image mosaic effect obtained by this method is more accurate than that of the traditional classic algorithms, the experimental effect is more ideal.
Autologous Micro-fragmented Adipose Tissue in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Jun , Guo Hua-Juan , Wang Cong-Cong , Zeng Xian-Wei , Wu Jun , Wang Xiao , Li Wei
Published: December 2021

Background: Microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT)-containing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) combined with surgery is a promising strategy for the early management of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). This study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of autologous MFAT-MSCs for the management of knee KOA.Methods: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for potentially eligible studies published up to June 2021. The primary outcome was the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). The secondary outcomes were pain assessed by visual analog scale (VAS)/numeric rating scale (NRS), quality of life (QOL) (apart from the KOOS), and adverse events (AEs). The random-effects model was used in all analyses.Results: Eight studies (331 patients) were included. The mean differences in KOOS scores between pre-operation and post-operation (mean, 95%CI) were 22.1 (18.7, 25.3), 19.5 (15.4, 23.6), 23.0 (19.0, 26.9), 30.8 (25.5, 35.8), and 29.9 (24.8, 35.0) for pain, symptoms, ADL, sports/recreation, and QOL, respectively. The mean differences in pain VAS between pre-operation and post-operation were -3.026 (-3.884, -2.202). The mean differences in QOL between pre-operation and post-operation (mean, 95%CI) were -25.10 (-29.95, -20.20), 0.039 (-0.079, 0.170), and 0.33 (-0.99, 1.6) for the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), EQ-5D, and University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), respectively. The use of MFAT-MSCs was not associated with bruising, bleeding, hematoma, drainage, infection, and swelling but was associated with soreness, pain, and stiffness.Conclusions: MFAT-MSC has potential benefits for KOA while being safe. A long-term follow-up and randomized controlled trials are necessary for confirmation.
A Cork Cell Wall Approach To Swelling And Boiling
Authors: Poeiras Ana Patrícia , Voguel Cordula , Günther Björn , Camilo-Alves Constança , Surový Peter , Silva Maria Emília , Ribeiro Nuno de Almeida
Published: December 2021

The bark of cork oak (Quercus suber L.) is mostly used for cork stopper production, whereas bark is undergoing a series of industrial procedures, boiling usually leading to changes in the characteristics of the tissue. Trees are traditionally grown under natural conditions; however, irrigation is now being used in plantations. These permanent water availability affects cork-oak development, while its effects on industrial procedures is unknown. This study provides a first insight into the behaviour of the cell walls of cork during the process of swelling and boiling when trees have been grown under irrigation, subject to a specific water regime. Cork tissue was analysed using environmental and scanning electron microscopy under three regimes: raw conditions; following immersion in water; and after boiling. Additionally, the radial expansion of samples was determined. The results showed greater cell-wall expansion in cork from the irrigated site than cork from the traditional rainfed plot, when hydrated for 24h. After boiling, the cell walls of the rainfed site were thinner than in the raw stage, in contrast to the irrigated cork. This study suggests that irrigation during cork-oak growth produces a higher capacity for adsorption, increasing cell-wall thickness from the raw stage to the boiling stage.
Investigating The Effect of Psychological Variables On Postoperative Pain In Children
Authors: Gholami Sara , Mojen Leila Khanali , Rassouli Maryam , Farahani Azam Shirinabadi , Dadashi Nasrin
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose: Despite the progress of pain management in children, the prevalence of postoperative pain remains a caring challenge. Given the multidimensional nature of pain and the effect of various factors on pain, the need to identify risk factors in preventing postoperative pain is felt. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate the effect of psychological variables on postoperative pain in childrenMethods: This study was conducted following a descriptive-correlational study design. The samples of the study were 171 children aged 6-13 years who were conveniently selected from the selected children's hospital in Tehran according to the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the “demographic questionnaire”, “Child Pain Anxiety Symptoms Scale (CPASS)”, the Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and “Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CSQ)” and analyzed using SPSS21 software.Results: Most of the 171 children participated were boys (65.5%) with a mean age of 9.58 years. The most common type of surgery was abdominal (53.2%), with an average surgery duration of 134.29 minutes. The results of regression analysis showed that postoperative pain was positively affected by child and parent anxiety and negatively affected by coping strategies. The postoperative pain increased 0.31 and 0.30 per unit increase in child and parent anxiety, respectively, and decreased 0.14 per unit increase in coping strategies.Conclusion: Based on the confirmation of the relationship between child and parent psychological variables on postoperative pain, identifying children at risk and presenting psychological interventions can be an effective step for managing postoperative pain and improving child and family comfort.
Oxytocin Receptor Gene Methylation as a Molecular Marker for Severity of Depressive Symptoms in Affective Disorder Patients
Authors: Ludwig Birgit , Carlberg Laura , Kienesberger Klemens , Swoboda Patrick , Swoboda Marleen , Bernegger Alexandra , Koller Romina , Inaner Michelle , Fuxjäger Monika , Zotter Melanie , Schmelzle Nicolas , Senft Birgit , Meisner Lisa , Fischer-Hansal Daniela , Huber Jasmin , Schönthaler Silvia , Kapusta Nestor D. , Haslacher Helmuth , Aigner Martin , Weinhaeusel Andreas , Kasper Siegfried , Schosser Alexandra
Published: December 2021

Background: Oxytocin (OXT) is a neuropeptide and hormone involved in emotional functioning and also seems to play a role in moderating the stress response. Both preclinical and clinical studies point to an increased methylation status of the Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) promoter region with concomitant deficits in social, cognitive and emotional functioning. We hypothesize that methylation levels (%) of the oxytocin receptor promoter region correlate with the severity of depression symptoms within this present sample of affective disorder patients. Methodology: Eight hundred forty six Caucasian affective disorder patients were recruited at the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of the Medical University Vienna, the Karl Landsteiner University for Health and Science and Zentrum für seelische Gesundheit, BBRZ-Med Leopoldau. The assessment included an assemblage of psychiatric interviews (e.g. SCAN, HAMD, CTQ) and concomitantly DNA samples of peripheral blood cells were collected for Multiplexed and Sensitive DNA Methylation Testing. Results: Our data suggests a positive but not significant association between OXTR promoter Exons 1-3 methylation levels and severity of depression symptoms in affective disorder patients. Conclusions: Our findings contribute to elucidate the role of OXTR in affective disorders, but further longitudinal studies in particular are necessary to broaden the current state of knowledge.
Impact of Dexmedetomidine On Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Recurrence In Uremic Patients Who Received Parathyroidectomy With Auto-Transplantation: A Retrospective Propensity-Matched Study
Authors: Wu Yun , Han Wei , Li Peikun , Hu Xianwen , Zhang Ye
Published: December 2021

Background: Recurrence of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) remains a big challenge in uremic patients who underwent total parathyroidectomy with auto-transplantation (tPTX-AT). However, the relationship between perioperative intervention and recurrence of SHPT remains unclear. Dexmedetomidine has been used safely and effectively in uremic patients’ anesthesia. The aim of the study was to explore the effect of dexmedetomidine on the recurrence of SHPT and speculate the possible mechanism of action.Methods: Records of patients who underwent tPTX-AT between 2017 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The study consisted of patients who received dexmedetomidine intra-operatively and the controls were patients who did not receive dexmedetomidine. The primary endpoint was the difference in the recurrence of SHPT one year after surgery between the two groups. The secondary endpoint was health-related quality of life scores. Analysis included propensity score matching and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Of 354 patients, 133 patients received dexmedetomidine intraoperatively, and the total recurrence rate of SHPT was 10.2%. After propensity score matching, patients who received dexmedetomidine had a 3.80-fold decreased risk of SHPT recurrence (odds ratio, 0.263; 95% confidence interval, 0.081 to 0.854; P=0.026) and exhibited a better quality of life in terms of physical functioning and general health, and less emotional role limitations compared with those in control group.Conclusion: In uremic patients who received tPTX-AT, there was an association between dexmedetomidine use and decreased risk of SHPT recurrence. Further studies are needed to accurately assess the effects and mechanism of action of dexmedetomidine on the prognosis of this population.