bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of biomarkers, pathways and potential therapeutic targets for EGFR-TKI resistance in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhu Leilei , Gao Shanshan , Zhao Xianya , Wang Ying
Published: May 2022

Background: Epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have been proven to provide survival benefits for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but drug resistance represents a major therapeutic challenge. This study aimed to map the hub genes and potential pathways that might be involved in the molecular pathogenesis of EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC. Methods: We performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between EGFR-TKI-sensitive and EGFR-TKI-resistant patient derived xenotransplantation (PDX) samples based on microarray data in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were applied for functional and pathway analysis of DEGs. The STRING database and Cytoscape software were used to construct protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks and determine gene interactions. Survival analysis was performed via the GEPIA database. The relationship between the EGFR-TKI resistance key gene ITGAM and the corresponding potential therapeutic candidates was retrieved from DGIdb. Results: A total of 1302 DEGs were identified (P <.05, fold change >2) when comparing the EGFR-TKI resistant and sensitive groups based on the GSE64472 and GSE130160 datasets. GO functional analysis showed that these DEGs were mainly enriched in plasma membrane, integrin binding, cytokine activity, growth factor activity, platelet-derived growth factor binding immune response and cell adhesion. Pathway analyses also indicated that these DEGs are mainly involved in signaling by the chemokine-cytokine receptor interaction, melanogenesis and basal cell carcinoma. The PPI network highlighted 10 potential hub genes, including six upregulated genes, ITGAM, CCL5, CD4, IDO1, HAVCR2 and CCR7, and four downregulated genes, IL6, IL10, CXCL9 and TLR9. Only ITGAM was linked to poor DSF in NSCLC patients. A total of 10 drugs were predicted to be potential therapeutics for NSCLA with EGFR-TKI resistance. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that we have determined the hub genes related to EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC through bioinformatics technologies. Among them, ITGAM may play a role in the mechanism of resistance to EGFR-TKIs and helps to improve the understanding of the mechanisms of EGFR-TKI resistance and provide novel insights into therapeutics.
The Impact of Clinical Pharmacist-physician Communication on Reducing Drug-related Problems: a RCT in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zheng Feiyang , Wang Dan , Zhang Xinping
Published: May 2022

Background: The incidence of drug-related problems (DRP) has caused serious health hazards and economic burdens among poly-medicine patients. Effective communication between clinical pharmacists and physicians (CPP) has a significant impact on reducing DRPs, but evidence is poor.Methods: A semi-structured interview was conducted to explore the communication mode between CPPs based on the interprofessional approach of the shared decision making model and Relational Coordination theory. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was used to explore the effects of communication intervention on reducing DRPs. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the influencing factors of communication.Results: The mode of communication is driven by clinical pharmacists between CPPs and selectively based on different DRP types. Normally, the communication contents only cover two (33.8%) types of DRP contents or fewer (35.1%). The communication time averaged 5.8 minutes. The communication way is predominantly face-to-face (91.3%), but telephone or other online means (such as WeChat) may be preferred for urgent task or long physical distance. Among the 367 participants, 44 patients had DRPs. RCT results indicated a significant difference in DRP incidence between the control group and the intervention group after the communication intervention (P = 0.02), and the incidence of DRP in the intervention group was significantly reduced (15.6% vs 0.07%). Regression analysis showed that communication time had negative impact on DRP incidence (OR = 13.22, p<0.001).Conclusion: Face-to face communication is mainly current practiced mode between CPPs, but they communicate few contents when dealing with DRPs. Communication mode based on the interprofessional approach of the shared decision making between CPPs in medication decision-making could significantly reduce the incidence of DRP and the length of communication time is a significant factor. The longer the communication time, the fewer DRPs occur.Trial registration: This trial was approved by the ethics committee of the surveyed Hospital (kj2020-087-03) and registered in the China clinical trial registry (https:// www.chictr.org.cn, number chictr20000035321).
Proximology in a Cancer Care Setting in Burkina Faso: A Study of Cancer Patient Caregivers
Authors: Bambara Augustin Tozoula , Ouédraogo Nina-Astrid , Nébié Arlette J. K. , Sombié Roger
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to examine the role of caregivers of cancer patients at Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, using a proximological approach. We carried out a cross-sectional, observational study of 72 patient/caregiver dyads that included patients followed for at least one month as outpatients for confirmed cancer and their primary caregiver from May-October 2021. Caregiver burden was assessed using the Caregiver Reaction Assessment questionnaire (CRA). Mean scores of the CRA dimensions were compared according to selected patient/caregiver characteristics. In 53% of dyads, the relationship was parent/child. Administrative formalities and emotional support were the main tasks undertaken by the primary caregivers. Strength of the parental bond, living in the same home, and knowledge of the seriousness of the patient’s illness had a significant impact on CRA scores. In our setting, we need to reflect on measures to lighten the burden of the cancer patient’s caregiver.
Comparative epidemiology of ivermectin and vaccines against Delta variant based on real-world data and hypothesized mechanisms of ivermectin immunological action
Authors: Tanioka Hisaya , Tanioka Sayaka , Kaga Kimitaka
Published: May 2022

Purpose
In areas of Africa where ivermectin is widely used as prophylaxis against neglected tropical diseases, COVID-19 morbidity and mortality are markedly lower. Thus, prophylactic administration of ivermectin is expected to be as effective as vaccine administration. This study will evaluate the effect of ivermectin on Delta variant by retrospective comparative epidemiology with vaccines and estimate its mechanism of action.
Methods
We used the 4-month observation period during which Delta variant was prevalent. Vaccine-using countries were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of an inactivated vaccine approval. The number of confirmed cases, deaths, and recoveries in the ivermectin-using countries and countries with full vaccination coverage of 50% or higher were corrected using adjustment factors calculated from population factors, medical care, and test systems. The median test performed statistical comparisons by adjusted values between the ivermectin group and each vaccine group. Vaccine efficacy rates against ivermectin were calculated based on odds ratios. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient examined the interaction between ivermectin and each vaccine.
Results
Ivermectin was statistically less effective than the non-inactivated vaccines but was not statistically significantly different from the inactivated vaccine-approved group for all items. Vaccine efficacy against ivermectin was 35% for the non-inactivated vaccines and 13% for the inactivated vaccine-approved group. The interaction between ivermectin and the non-inactivated vaccines may reduce morbidity, while the inactivated vaccines may increase morbidity and mortality.
Discussion
Ivermectin may have both chemical actions and immune response mechanisms against SARS-CoV-2. Ivermectin is less effective than the non-inactivated vaccine but is more effective than the inactivated one. When used in combination with a non-activated vaccine, it may further reduce morbidity. The vaccine effect of ivermectin may last approximately 5 months. The vaccine-like effects of ivermectin may activate the retinoic acid-induced gene-I pathway, leading to antibody production and autophagy.
Investigation of meteorological drought characteristics of the Great Man-Made River Region: a case study of drought in Libya
Authors: ELHAJ Mustafa Ibrahim Mohamed , KESKIN Tulay EKEMEN , JAMALI Ali
Published: May 2022

Drought is a hidden natural hazard that involves complex climatic systems and has significant environmental and social consequences. Due to the current state of catastrophic climatic occurrences, there has been an increase of interest in monitoring of droughts in recent years. In this study, meteorological drought analysis for five monitoring stations in the Great Man-Made River region located in Libya was conducted. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI) methods were used to determine meteorological droughts utilizing monthly total precipitation data, mean monthly temperatures data, and total monthly precipitation. The drought analysis of the Great Man-Made River region using DrinC software for 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-months SPI values were researched. According to the SPI-12-month index values, the driest period was determined by 86% in the Tripoli Airport and Nalut station, and the least dry period was determined in the Sirt station by 39%. It was found that the year 2000–2001 was one of the driest years in all stations, and the other years with high drought rates were 1981–1982, 1984–1985, and 1992–1993.
GLP-2 ameliorates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and regulating gut microbiota
Authors: Li Dongyue , Gao Yanhong , Cui Lanrong , Li Yang , Ling Hao , Tan Xin , Xu Hongyu
Published: May 2022

Background
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by recurrence and remission of colonic and rectal mucosal inflammation, and its incidence is increasing year by year. Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) is a newly discovered enteral nutrition factor, but its efficacy and potential mechanism of action on UC have not been fully elucidated.
Aims
The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of GLP-2 on Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) -induced UC in mice and its potential mechanism.
Methods
40 C57BL/6J female mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (CON) ,DSS group (DSS) ,DSS + Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli group (ETEC) ,DSS + ETEC + sitagliptin group (GLP-2). The effect of GLP-2 on UC was evaluated by calculating the disease activity index (DAI), colonic mucosal damage index (CMDI), and histopathological score. The expressions of GLP-2, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were detected by the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA ) and immunohistochemistry. 16SrRNA was used to detect the changes in gut microbiota in mouse colonic tissue.
Results
Compared with the control group, the GLP-2 of mice in the DSS group and ETEC group decreased significantly, and NF-κB, IL-6, and STAT3 were significantly increased(P < 0.0001). Compared with the DSS group, the CMDI score and histopathological score of the GLP-2 group were significantly decreased, GLP-2 expression was significantly increased, and NF-κB, IL-6, and STAT3 were significantly decreased. The results of 16SrRNA detection showed that compared with the DSS group, the dominant bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Prevotellaceae were increased and the diversity of gut microbiota was increased in the GLP-2 group.
Conclusions
GLP-2 reduced the degree of inflammation in UC mice, which may be achieved by inhibiting the inflammatory pathways of NF-κB and Janus Kinase (JAK) /STAT3, increasing the dominant bacteria and improving the diversity of gut microbiota.
The value of ctDNA in predicting postoperative recurrence of non-small cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Li Yifan , Yin Qifan , Qie Peng , Han Shaohui , Li Xiaoning , Zhou Shaohui , Zhang Guibin , Wang Huien
Published: May 2022

Objective: Lung cancer is the most common malignant tumor worldwide, and non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC) accounts for approximately 85% of all lung carcinoma cases. Despite surgical operation is still the primary method for treating early NSCLC, there are still a considerable postoperative recurrence patients even after complete resection. Currently, circulating tumor DNA(ctDNA) is being recognised as a molecular biomarker of minimal residual disease(MRD) in predicting postoperative recurrence of NSCLC in clinical trials and has not been confirmed. The goal of our study is to evaluate the value of ctDNA in predicting postoperative recurrence in NSCLC patients.Method: A comprehensive systematic literature research was performed for studies exploring the value of ctDNA in predicting postoperative recurrence in NSCLC patients up to February 2022. The eligible studies were collected, and the dependent variable analysis was performed to compare the relative risk (RR) of recurrence in the postoperative ctDNA positive and negative groups. The relative ratio (RR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) were determined as comparative measures of postoperative recurrence-free survival (RFS). Ten researches comprising 799 patients, published between 2017 and February 2022, were finally enrolled into our meta-analysis.Result: A total of 10 studies including 799 patients were summarized for meta-analysis of ctDNA in predicting recurrence in NSCLC. The combined RR was 3.75 ( 95 % CI : 1.98-4.72, P < 0.05 ), which indicated that patients with postoperative ctDNA positive had a higher postoperative recurrence rate in NSCLC than postoperative ctDNA negative. In addition, Meta-analysis of 4 studies with available data showed that preoperative peripheral blood ctDNA positive showed poor prognosis of RFS with combined HR = 3.40(95%CI: 2.72-4.69, P < 0.05).Conclusion: For NSCLC patients, ctDNA is a promising biomarker for predicting postoperative recurrence, which can be used as a supplement to the current monitoring of radiation and blood biomarkers to better guide the treatment selection and prognosis of patients after surgery.
MicroRNA-433 Inhibits Migration and Proliferation of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma by Targeting Hypoxia- Induced Factor 1α
Authors: Chai Linlin , Cai Jing , You Bo , Zhang Qicheng , Gu Miao , Shan Ying , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2022

Background
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignancy of head and neck cancer. miR-433 was downregulated in various of cancers. However, the roles and underlying mechanisms of miR-433 in the hypoxic microenvironment of NPC have not been clarified.
Methods
Real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot assay were performed to examine miR-433 and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) levels in NPC tissue and cells. Cell proliferation, migration of differentially expressed miR-433 cells was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell analysis in vitro. Nude mice and zebrafish model were used to confirm the effect of miR-433 in vivo. Luciferase reporter assays was used to determine whether HIF-1α was a direct target of miR-433.
Results
RT-qPCR, Western blot assay were performed to show that miR-433 was down-regulated while hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) was overexpressed in NPC. Cell proliferation, migration of differentially expressed miR-433 cells was measured by CCK8, Transwell analysis in vitro. Our data showed that miR-433 suppressed proliferation and migration of hypoxic NPC cells by directly binding the 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of HIF-1α. Knockdown the expression of HIF-1α in the miR-433 inhibitor treated hypoxic CNE2 cells partially reversed the effect. Nude mice and zebrafish model were used to confirm the effect of miR-433 in vivo. Luciferase reporter assays was used to determine whether HIF-1α was a direct target of miR-433.
Conclusions
NPC cells proliferation, migration, cell cycle arrest, colony formation, and the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression were all inhibited by miR-433 by directly targeting HIF-1α. miR-433 could act as cancer suppressor miRNA and represent an effective therapeutic strategy for NPC.
Signal Dynamic Range Expansion and Power Supply Voltage Reduction for an Exponentiation Conversion IC
Authors: Nishiyama Naoya , Matsui Fumiya , Sano Yuji
Published: May 2022

In order to compensate for the non-linearity of an electronic device, an exponentiation conversion circuit that can change the power exponent to any value has been proposed. The exponentiation conversion circuit multiplies the logarithmically converted input signal by a power exponent value to perform exponential conversion. As a result, we can obtain the power function characteristic of a power exponent value. This circuit is a small-scale circuit that utilizes the exponential characteristics of the MOSFET subthreshold region. In a conventional circuit, expansion of the signal dynamic range and reduction of the power supply voltage have been an issue. In this paper, it was confirmed by simulation that the signal dynamic range has expanded by optimizing the current density of MOSFETs. In addition, the linearity of the multiplying circuit was improved by feedback produced by the operational amplifier circuits. We proposed reducing its power supply voltage from 6.0 V to 3.3 V by a new multiplying circuit that can eliminate the restriction of maximum voltage gain. Our circuit expands its signal dynamic range from 17.5 dB to 42.7 dB in condition of the power exponent value from 0.50 to 2.0.
SeparaFill：Two generators connected mural image restoration based on generative adversarial network with skip connect
Authors: Shen Yinghua , Li Zilu , Li Jinghua , Zheng Jin , Lv Chaohui
Published: May 2022

Murals are the important components of culture and arts of Dunhuang. Unhappily, these murals have been ruined or are being ruined by some diseases such as cracking, hollowing, falling off, getting mildewed, dirt, and so on. Due to a lack of a standard mural datasets, Dunhuang mural datasets are created by ourselves. Meanwhile, our proposed network architecture SeparaFill which is connected two generators based on U-Net. First, the contour restoration generator network is used to repair contour lines. Then, the color mural image is repaired by the content completion network with help of the repaired contour. Next, global and local discriminant networks are applied to determine whether the repaired mural image is authentic in terms of both the modified and unmodified areas. Compared with existing mural restoration algorithms, the proposed method increases the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PNSR) and increases the structural similarity (SSIM). SeparaFill shows good performance in restoring the line structure of the damaged mural images and retaining the contour information of the mural images.
Empathy for the Health Professional in Online Asynchronous Graduate Education: A Design Thinking Approach to Program Improvement
Authors: Bayer Ilana , Elma Asiana , Nasser Muhammadhasan , Grierson Lawrence
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Health professionals engage in continuous professional development through higher education. As traditional university learning environments pose a challenge, distance education allows health professionals to engage higher education in alignment with their learning preferences and needs. Literature on health professional learners’ experiences in online learning environments report findings at the course level and/or focus on a singular aspect of the online learning experience. In this study, we aim to understand the health professional learner’s perspective in a distance graduate education program and make normative recommendations to improve the learner experience.Objective(s): To gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities health professional learners experience in an online asynchronous graduate program.Methods: Within the context of the Empathy arm of Deitte and Omary’s (2019) Design Thinking methodology, we completed a two-part sequential explanatory qualitative study involving students and stakeholders of the Health Science Education Graduate Program at McMaster University (Hamilton, Canada). An unconstrained approach to descriptive content analysis was used to analyze the data and construct themes relating to the learner experience in an online graduate program.Results: An overarching theme of ‘the learner experience is an autonomous-supportive online learning environment’ was constructed, with two sub-themes: learner autonomy and building community.Conclusion: Learners valued an autonomous-supportive online learning environment wherein they could tailor their educational experiences while also fostering a sense of community. Future research should consider how a balance between maintaining learner freedom and building community can be achieved to enhance the health professional learner experience in an online learning environment.
The value of YKL-40 level in early thrombolytic treatment decision-making in patients with pulmonary thromboembolism
Authors: Kerget Buğra , Özkan Hatice Beyza , Koçak Abdullah Osman , Laloglu Esra , Uçar Elif Yılmazel , Sağlam Leyla
Published: May 2022

Introduction:
Pulmonary embolism (PE) often occurs secondary to deep vein thrombosis and is an important cause of mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between YKL-40 level and clinical risk score in patients with PE.
Methods
The study included a total of 100 patients, 80 patients diagnosed with PE in the emergency department and 20 healthy controls. Patients with PE were divided into four groups: high-risk patients (n = 20), high-intermediate-risk patients (n = 20), low-intermediate-risk patients (n = 20), and low-risk patients (n = 20). Serum YKL-40 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pulmonary artery obstruction index (PAOI) was calculated from computed tomography angiography images.
Results
PAOI increased in correlation with PE risk and differed significantly between all patient groups (p < 0.001). Troponin-I levels were significantly higher in the high-risk and high-intermediate-risk groups compared to the other groups (p < 0.001), but did not differ significantly between high-risk and high-intermediate-risk patients (p = 0.09). YKL-40 level was significantly higher in the high-risk PE group than the high-intermediate-risk group (p < 0.001). In receiving operator characteristic curve analysis assessing the discriminatory value of YKL-40 for high-risk PE patients, a cut-off value of 227.2 ng/mL had sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 70%.
Discussion
YKL-40 may be an important biomarker in decisions regarding early thrombolytic treatment in patients with high-intermediate-risk PE. In addition, medical treatments targeting YKL-40 may also reduce thrombotic tendency in high-risk patient groups.
RNA profile of immuno-magnetically enriched exosomes isolated from Non- Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Singh Shefali , Goyal Deevanshu , Karthikeyan R , Kumar Sachin , Malik Prabhat Singh , Elangovan Ravikrishnan
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Exosomes are ubiquitous extracellular vesicles secreted during diseased and physiological conditions. Exosomal RNA has been associated with cancer development and progression. Enriching clinically relevant tissue-specific exosomes may assist in focusing more on key RNA molecules packaged during cancer, but the current exosome isolation methods isolate total exosomes. Therefore, this study focused on isolating lung cancer cell-derived exosomes to get insights into the altered biology of the disease. Method: We developed a rapid immunomagnetic exosome enrichment method that enables the separation of lung cancer cell-derived exosomes from human plasma. The total RNA purified from these immunomagnetically enriched exosomes was characterized using a high throughput sequencing to profile the different RNA biotypes packaged and their differential expression in these exosomes. Further, functional enrichment was performed to determine the functional annotation terms significantly correlated with the list of identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Results: In total, 1383 mRNAs and 64 lncRNA were identified as differentially expressed between patient plasma exosomes than healthy controls (fold change > 2, P < 0.05). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed that the DEGs were mainly enriched in the cancer-related pathways, purine metabolism, calcium and cGMP-PKG (cyclic-guanosine 3’,5’monophosphate-protein kinase G) signaling pathways.Conclusion: The method developed here provided adequate RNA quality for high throughput sequencing. The total transcriptome analysis of lung cancer cell-derived exosomes revealed that the majority of DEGs were involved in cancer-related pathways suggesting that this method could be further utilized to identify disease-specific exosome biomarkers for liquid biopsy-based diagnostic applications.
WDR5 drives the development of cervical squamous cell carcinoma by inducing epithelial- mesenchymal transition and cancer-associated fibroblasts formation
Authors: Sun Fangli , Mo Linmei , Lan Ying , Lu Qiuping , Wu Nengxian , Song Honglin
Published: May 2022

WD repeat domain 5 (WDR5) has been indicated to be involved in tumor progression, however, its role in cervical cancer (CC) has not been investigated yet. A total of 350 pairs of CC tissues and para-carcinoma tissues (PCT) were collected. Primary human cervical epithelial cells (hCECs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) were isolated from PCT and cancer tissues. MM102 was used to block the interaction between WDR5 and mixed lineage leukemia protein-1 (MLL1), and it was used in vivo to investigate its therapeutic value. WDR5 was up-regulated in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) tissues compared to that in PCT. C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) was indicated to be the target gene of WDR5. Highly expressed CXCL8 promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to form CAFs, and enhanced the cytokine secretions in CAFs to promote CSCC progression. CXCL8 expression was regulated by the interaction between WDR5 and MLL1, and blocking the interaction between these two proteins using MM102 significantly suppressed tumor growth in mice models. WDR5 plays a key role in CSCC progression by inducing CXCL8 expression and promoting the transformation of CAFs from epithelial cells.
Effects of air pollutants on pneumonia hospital admissions in Lanzhou: Evidence of ecological time-series study using distributed lag non-linear model
Authors: Jin Limei , Fang Shuya , Zhou Xiaowen , Han Bisen , Zhou Tian , Bai Yana
Published: May 2022

Introduction:
A study on effects of air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, O38h, and CO) on pneumonia hospital admissions was performed in Lanzhou (an ex-heavily polluted city in Northwestern China).
Methods
A time-series design with distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was used for statistical analysis. Daily pneumonia hospital admissions data in Lanzhou from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019, were collected, as well as air pollutant data and meteorological data. We used DLNM to estimate relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of pneumonia hospital admissions associated with per 10µg/m3 rise in exposure to air pollutants (per 1 mg/m3 rise in CO). stratification analysis was performed by gender (male and female), age (0–14 years, 15–64 years and ≥ 65 years old), and season (warm season and cold season).
Results
A total of 20,071 pneumonia hospital admissions were enrolled for analysis. Pneumonia hospital admissions risk were 1.044(1.029,1.060), 1.009(1.005,1.013), 1.086(1.053,1.121), 1.073(1.052,1.093), and 1.157(1.094, 1.223), respectively, corresponding to per 10µg/m3 rise in exposure to PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, and 1 mg/m3 rise in exposure to CO. Every 10µg/m3 increase in O38h was associated with decreased of pneumonia hospital admissions, the RR(95%CI) was 0.949(0.935, 0.962). The adverse effects for gaseous pollutants (except O38h) on pneumonia hospital admissions were stronger than particulate matter. Six exposure-response curves between air pollutants and pneumonia hospital admissions were approximate linear with no thresholds. Female and children (0–14 years age group) were more sensitive to the effects of air pollutants, particularly in cold season.
Conclusion
Exposure to air pollutants(except O38h) might be associated with increased risk of pneumonia hospital admissions. The association remained signifcant after adjustment for other environmental factors.
Sonication of whole blackberries as a pretreatment for the anthocyanin enrichment of juices obtained by pressing
Authors: Moraes Débora P. , Ferreira Daniele F. , Farias Carla A. A. , Nehring Priscila , Barcia Milene T. , Cichoski Alexandre J. , Barin Juliano S.
Published: May 2022

An ultrasound pretreatment was used to increase anthocyanins content in blackberry juice. Whole fruits were inserted into a glass vessel without contact with any solvent, sonicated in an ultrasonic bath, and then pressed with a manual juicer. The experimental design showed that the most suitable conditions were reached in 7 min at 65% of ultrasound amplitude, increasing the anthocyanin content in juices from 31 to 56% for BRS Xingu, Guarani, and Xavante cultivars. Two major anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside were found in higher concentrations for sonicated fruits. Therefore, ultrasonic pretreatment of whole fruits increased the anthocyanins in blackberry juices using a simple, fast, and green approach.
Impact of Retardation in the Holstein-Hubbard Model: a two-site Calculation
Authors: Marsiglio Frank
Published: May 2022

Eliashberg theory provides a theoretical framework for understanding the phenomenon of superconductivity when pairing between two electrons is mediated by phonons, and retardation effects are fully accounted for. However, when a direct Coulomb interaction between two electrons is also present, this interaction is only partially accounted for. In this work we use a well-defined Hamiltonian, the Hubbard-Holstein model, to examine this competition more rigorously, using exact diagonalization on a two-site system. We find that the direct electron-electron repulsion between two electrons has a significantly more harmful effect on pairing than suggested through the standard treatment of this interaction.
Transport mobility restrictions as a pandemic response: a case study Germany
Authors: Lane Hakan , Otto Philipp , Sahin Mehmet
Published: May 2022

The COVID19 pandemic has caused a large number of infections and fatalities, causing administrations at various levels to limit public mobility. This paper analyzes the complex association between the stringency of restrictions, public mobility, and reproduction rate (R-value) on a national level for Germany. The goals were to analyze; a) the correlation between government restrictions and public mobility and b) the association between public mobilities and virus reproduction. In addition to correlations, a Gaussian Process Regression Technique is used to fit the interaction between mobility and R-value. The main findings are that: (i) Government restrictions has a high association with reduced public mobilities, especially for non-food stores and public transport, (ii) Out of six measured public mobilities, retail, recreation, and transit station activities have the most significant impact on COVID19 reproduction rates. (iii) A mobility reduction of 30% is required to have a critical negative impact on case number dynamics, preventing further spread.
Clinical effects of early removal of an external stent from the viewpoint of postoperative pancreatitis following pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Kurimoto Makoto , Yamanaka Kenya , Hanabata Yusuke , Shinkura Akina , Aoki Hikaru , Harada Kaichiro , Kayano Masashi , Tashima Misaki , Tamura Jun
Published: May 2022

Background: An external stent (ES) prevents clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), although it requires a longer postoperative hospital stay. Early ES removal has been suggested to overcome this issue. This study aimed to examine the effect of early ES removal on the pathophysiology of postoperative acute pancreatitis (POAP).Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted between May 2018 and December 2020 at Amagasaki General Medical Center. The ES was removed on postoperative day 10 if the patient showed no clinical signs of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). The early removal group included patients whose ES was removed within 10 days.Results: Fifty consecutive patients underwent PD with an ES. The median length of postoperative hospital stay was 14.5 days in the early removal group and 19.5 days in the late removal group (P=0.0055). In the multivariate analysis, to eliminate the effects of postoperative complications, late ES removal was associated with a longer postoperative hospital stay (hazard ratio: 2.0, P=0.037). In the multivariate analysis of factors for early ES removal, early removal of the intra-abdominal tubes was statistically significantly associated with early ES removal (odds ratio: 8.4, P=0.03). Although patients with POAP showed a statistically significant delay in the removal of both ES and intra-abdominal drainage tubes, no statistically significant association was observed between CR-POPF and postoperative hospital stay.Conclusions: An ES may manage POAP to reduce the risk of subsequent CR-POPF. Early removal of ES can be a method to shorten hospital stay.
TRANSLATION FEATURES OF MODERN IT TERMINOLOGY FROM ENGLISH INTO UKRAINIAN
Authors: Tatsenko Nataliia , Orol Veronika
Published: May 2022

The article considers the features and basic techniques of translating modern IT terminology from English into Ukrainian. We have found out that the IT terminology of the English language is currently actively developing and plays an essential role as a part of the scientific and technical discourse of the English language. Other languages often borrow English IT terms. Therefore, they are international in their nature. The translation of such terminology is associated with specific difficulties, including requirements for accuracy and adequacy of scientific and technical translation, difficulties in choosing the correct translation equivalent depending on the context and traditions of translation of such terms, and a large number of abbreviations and acronyms in IT terminology. The article analyses the features of the translation of IT terms from English into Ukrainian through the use of dictionary definitions of English terms and their equivalents, translation analysis, as well as quantitative analysis of the obtained results. As a result, we have established that the value of the scientific and technical text depends on the accuracy of terms translation. The article examines the main approaches to the modern English IT terminology translation, as well as the peculiarities of the use of these techniques depending on their structural and semantic properties. We have found that the most frequent methods of translating IT terms into Ukrainian are equivalent and analogue translation, transliteration, and loan translation. Such language and translation transformations as preservation of the Latin spelling of the IT term, modulation, grammatical substitutions are also often used
Engaging Apparel Employees to Identify and Decide Actions to Address Selected Determinants using Health Promotion Approach
Authors: Sewwandi W. G. Nadeesha , Young Sansfica M. , Guruge G. N. D.
Published: May 2022

Low level of employee engagement is one of the most alarming global economic problems. It declines work performance and productivity of employees. The objective of this qualitative study is to identify and decide actions to address selected probable determinants which affect employee engagement. The health promotion principals with participatory approach were implemented with sewing machine operators in an apparel factory in Sri Lanka of age 18–55 (n = 64). The duration of determinant identification took around 3 months while intervention period took around 6 months. Initiation, maintenance and continual monitoring, and re-direction toward greater effectiveness were done as the components of a health promotion process. Group discussions with employees and key informant interviews with managerial personals were recorded, transcribed, translated to English, and thematically analyzed. Without the involvement of the principal investigator, employees were able to identify eight determinants while managerial personals identified three determinants. Among those identified probable determinants, four of which corresponded with those already mentioned in published studies. After facilitation, employees could identify six determinants and they could identify determinants by conducting some interactive activities and while measuring employees’ changes using “health promotional tools” as well. From the identified determinants, employees prioritized four determinants that were addressed and nine actions were developed with the employees to address them in this process. Employees could identify the probable determinants that affect employee engagement in their own work place by themselves and they could decide actions to address selected determinants successfully with minimum guidance through a health promotion approach.
A Study to evaluate the Functional Outcomes after the Surgical Management of Intra Articular Fracture of Distal Humerus
Authors: Gupta Ashish Kumar , Tigga Anoop
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The primary goal in management of intra articular fractures of distal humerus is to achieve stable and mobile elbow. The chances of functional impairment and deformities are very high following conservative treatment of such distal intra-articular fractures of humerus. Objectives of the study were to assess the functional outcome and to compare the results after surgical management of intra articular fracture of distal humerus using Mayo elbow performance index. & to assess the range of movements, pain and union. Methods: Retrospective Evaluation study with Review and Reports of 50 cases / patients, who were diagnosed & surgically managed. Fractures were classified as per AO type A to C (except C3 comminuted) and were included in this study in whom internal fixation was done using triceps reflecting Bryan Morrey approach with some modification in few cases. Results: No patient achieved complete extension. No limitation in the pronation-supination was detected. Radiographic assessment Postoperative and follow up radiographs showed adequate fracture reduction and fracture healing in all patients. No step off more than one mm was seen. All patients had completed postoperative physical therapy at the time of the study and had achieved maximum function of elbow. Conclusion: Triceps reflecting Bryan Morrey approach is a simple and effective approach that can be used in management of the majority of the distal humeral fractures as it provides adequate visualization and reduction fracture fragments with no adverse effect on triceps muscle strength
Organic Food Products - A Study on Perception of Women Consumers
Authors: Karthika R. , Senthilkumar K.
Published: May 2022

The demand for organic food has been rapidly increasing worldwide, because of an improvement in the awareness of environmental problems and health concerns. Although the demand for organic food is increasing, the popularity of organic food is not widespread and the perception of organic food varies in the wide public. This study aimed to understand rural areas consumers’ perception of organic food and the importance of organic certification in customer’s decisions for obtaining insights into their consumption of organic food. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey. However, for the present study, the researcher selected retail shops from various stores such as small shop and department store in rural areas. The more consumers are interested in trust and are confident with the claimed benefits, the more likely will they purchase organic food. In addition, organic labels and certification turned out to be important for the consumers when shopping organic food. This research was the first study to investigate the consumers perception of organic food in a rural area. It is also observed that health, nutrition, taste, and chemical/fertilizer free nature are the attributes that have an influence on the purchase decision of organic food products by rural consumers. “Health benefits” were the first and primary reason for purchasing organic food, while “high price” was the key deterrent to purchasing organic food.
Impact of Acne on the Quality of Life of Adolescent School Children and University Students
Authors: Madushani P. H. A. , Herath H. M. D. R.
Published: May 2022

Acne is a common skin disorder caused due to the inflammation of pilosebaceous units in the skin and has affected around 9.4% of the global population. This study evaluated the impact of acne on the quality of life (QoL) of adolescent school children and university students in Sri Lanka. The study also assessed the treatment methods, risk factors, and associations between acne severity and risk factors. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using 100 advanced level students and 200 university students with self-reported acne. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire with the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). The family history, premenstrual period, cosmetic usage, stress, oily skin, and oily foods were identified as severity factors for acne. There were statistically significant associations between acne severity and risk factors; oily food (χ2 = 15.241, P = 0.002), family history (χ2 = 15.241, P = 0.002), premenstrual period (χ2 = 16.593, P = 0.001), and oily skin (χ2 = 30.952, P = 0.000). The majority, 55% of school children and 73% of university students use home remedies to treat acne. The mean score of CDLQI was 1.3 in school children and 2.13 in university students. There was a statistically significant association between severity of acne and QoL (χ2 = 72.834, P = 0.000). The university students presented higher experiences of the impact of acne on QoL than school children.
A Community-led Workshop to Convey the Concept of “Community-centered Model of Health Promotion:” An Experience from Sri Lanka
Authors: Guruge G. N. D. , Rathnayake N. , Jayaweera K. , Abhayasinghe K. , Sumathipala A.
Published: May 2022

Background and Aim: This paper details the results of a formal workshop conducted by lay community members for a professional audience, as part of an initiative by the Department of Health Promotion in Rajarata University to popularize its “community centered model of health promotion”. Methods: Ten persons from rural communities in Anuradhapura district, who had previously implemented health promotion interventions in their communities, conducted the workshop. The half-day workshop, was in 3 phases – phase I: Prioritizing issues and setting goals; phase II: Training participants on the steps of the community centered model; phase III: A discussion with participants on enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. The participants were 10 local and foreign professionals and 17 undergraduates. A self-administered questionnaire was administered to the participants and telephone interviews were conducted with community members who conducted the workshop. Results: The majority of participants reported a strong achievement of learning outcomes. Participants’ comments indicated that the model was well presented and the community member trainers conducted the workshop well. Responses from the community member trainers indicated that they felt confident in conducting the workshop and believed they had succeeded in imparting the intended knowledge and experience. Conclusions: The community-led workshop was successful in terms of conveying the model, achieving the leaning outcomes of participants and in empowering community members to conduct a formal workshop for professionals. It is recommended that this model be replicated.
Management of Cardiovascular Medicines Used at the Regional Diagnostic and Treatment Center of the Western Region of Mongolia
Authors: Lkhagvasuren Dulmaa , Mukhtar Yerkyebulan , Myagmarsuren Erdenetuya , Dorjbal Enkhjargal
Published: May 2022

As cardiovascular diseases are the major global health problem, the management of cardiovascular medicines (CVMs) should not be out of attention. We aimed to identify CVMs needing strict management control, used in 2017 and 2018 to investigate if there was a possibility to make savings in the expenditure for CVMs if the proper management was done regarding Class A medicines at the Regional Diagnostic Treatment Center of Khovd aimag in 2018. Aggregate data methods, Always, Better and Control (ABC), Vital, Essential and Non-essential (VEN), and ABC-VEN matrix analyses were used to identify the categories of CVMs, included in the Essential Medicine List of Mongolia for the year 2017 and 2018. Class A medicines represented 23.81% and 30.43% of the total CVMs and consumed the largest proportion of the total budgets at 73% and 71% in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The Category I, which requires strict management control, contains the majority (an average of 59%) of total CVMs and amounting for an average of 78.67% of total expenditures in 2017 and 2018. We conclude that the Regional Diagnostic and Treatment Center could have saved a total of 6,646,500 MNT if the proper management regarding Class A medicines was done in 2018 based on the results of ABC, VEN, and ABC-VEN matrix analyses of 2017.
A Retrospective Analysis between Various Indices of Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Tirkey Naveen Kumar , Beck Pradeep
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas and, to a varied degree, involves local tissues or distant organs. The severity of AP can be predicted based on clinical, laboratory, and radiologic risk factors, various severity grading systems, and serum markers. Some of these can be performed on admission to assist in triage of patients. The objective of the study was to determine the relation between various indices of AP. Methods: A retrospective analysis of diagnosed cases of AP of total 200 patients was done. Subjects included both the genders, all age groups including pediatric and geriatric age groups and all classes of socioeconomic strata. Results: There was a significant male preponderance. Most common cause was alcohol abuse in males and gallstone disease in females. There was a good correlation between Balthazar computed tomography severity index and Ranson’s score. Magnitude of enzyme elevation had no relation to the severity of the disease. Irrespective of the cause enzyme elevations was similar quantitatively, but the average lipase value was higher than the average amylase value in all the etiologies. Sensitivity of the ultrasound was good while the specificity was still low. Most common complication was pseudocyst of the pancreas. In the present study, we had the objective of analyzing the various severity indices. Conclusion: The initial management for an AP attack should be conservative; with surgery reserved for cases having uncertainty of diagnosis, trauma, very severe attacks not responding to medical therapy, and complications of the disease. The severity of AP is variable. The ability to predict the severity can help identify patients at increased risk for morbidity and mortality, thereby assisting in appropriate triage and selection of patients for specific interventions.