bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. against Agricultural and Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Alshiekheid Maha A. , Dwiningsih Yheni , Sabour Amal Abdullah , Alkahtani Jawaher
Published: August 2022

Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. is a powerful medicinal plant that has been used as traditional medicine to cure respiratory problems, pain, and inflammation in China, Indonesia, Thailand and other Asian countries by using the crude extracts. The objective of this research is to identify phytochemical composition of Z. cassumunar Roxb. and to analyze antibacterial activity of crude extract, purified compounds, and their microencapsulated products of Rhizome Z. cassumunar Roxb. Identification of phytochemical composition in crude extract of rhizome Z. cassumunar Roxb. was achieved by chromatography-mass spectrophotometer. The major phytochemical composition in crude extract of Z. cassumunar Roxb. is essential oils, including terpinen4-ol (37.7%), β-pinene (20.8%), and (E)-1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)but-1-ene (13.3%). Crude extract of Z. cassumunar Roxb. was purified with silica gel flash column chromatography, resulting two purified compounds. The antibacterial activity of crude extract, purified compounds, and their microencapsulated products of Rhizome Z. cassumunar Roxb. were evaluated against agricultural and foodborne pathogens by using disc agar diffusion and broth microdilution techniques. All of the samples studied (crude extracts, purified compounds, and microencapsulated of Z. cassumunar Roxb.) were effective against all the bacteria. Based on the results of the disc-diffusion assay suggested that amongst the samples studied, purified compounds (compound 1 and 2) and microencapsulated purified compounds (compound 1 and 2) exhibited more effective against all the bacteria compared to the crude extracts. Antibacterial activity of the rhizome of Z. cassumunar Roxb. was contributed mainly by the essential oils components as the active compounds. Gram-negative bacteria (X. oryzae, X. translucens, Pseudomonas spp, E. coli, and S. typhimurium) appeared to the most resistant to the crude extracts, purified compounds, and microencapsulated of Z. cassumunar Roxb. compared to the gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, B. cereus, and L. monocytogenes). Microencapsulated of the tested samples (crude extract, purified compound 1, and purified compound 2) of the rhizome Z. cassumunar Roxb. exhibited high antibacterial activity with no significantly different with the tested samples without microencapsulation. These results suggest potential antibacterial properties of Z. cassumunar Roxb., which useful for agricultural plant health, food preservation, natural therapies, and pharmaceuticals.
Optimization of the challenges facing the Iraqi economy based on the values of returns in 2000-2020
Authors:   Wasit University, Alyaseri Nagham Hameed Abdulkhudhur
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the situation in the Iraqi economy for the period of 2000-2020 has been analyzed using three hybrid models. The research hypothesis was launched from the necessity of interaction between the activity of the Iraqi market for securities and the local financial and economic institutions. The hypothesis has been verified accordingly using Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test, normality test and Multicollinearity Test. The statistical analysis was based on the three mathematical models to expect return and risk values of Iraqi money market. Three basic models (optimization (BO), Optimized Return Value (ORV), General Optimization Risk (GOR)) have been conducted to optimize and analyze the given data accordingly. The research reached several conclusions, the most prominent of which is the limited economic role of the Iraqi market for securities; the potential exposure to negative effects that could be produced by international crises because of the expected openness, due to the possibility of illegal capital movements resulting in irrational speculation; the difficulty of implementing monetary and financial policies, due to vulnerability to international challenges
Shifting cultivation management to increase economic efficiency in potato farms
Authors:   Papua University, Yuminarti Umi , Isaskar Riyanti ,   Brawijaya University, Widati Agatha Wahyu ,   Papua University, Fahriyah  ,   Brawijaya University
Published: August 2022

Farming shifting is one of the cultivation strategies to find the ideal environment. Shifting agriculture is caused by limited knowledge of farmers on environmental conditions for growing plants. This study aims to describe the input variables and shifting cultivation management on the efficiency of potato farming. The research method used is descriptive statistics. The study involved 51 potato farmers in Minyeimemut and Arion villages of Hingk sub-district, Manokwari District, West Papua, Indonesia. Potato commodities cultivated by Arfak farmers are still using a shifting cultivation system. Analysis of the data by quantitative descriptive method with the help of Frontier 4.1 software and the Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) approach to reduce the stochastic frontier cost function. The results showed that the average potato production was 296.08 Kg/Season. The average area of land cultivated by farmers is 0.15 Ha, the average use of seeds is 44.41 kg, and the average workforce is 33.08 Working Days (HOK). The cultivation activities of potato farmers show 4.33 years of shifting. Economic efficiency shows potato farming of 0.08548 which means it has a fairly economical category.
The creative economy in developing entrepreneurship: a case study on calligraphy craftsmen in Indonesia
Authors:   Muria Kudus University, Zuliyati  , Poerwati Tjahjaning ,   University Stikubank Semarang, Rusdianto Hutomo ,   Muria Kudus University
Published: August 2022

The creative economy is supported by an innovative industry driven by creators and innovators. Many types of creative industries are considered to be developed in Indonesia, including figure calligraphy. This study aims to develop figura calligraphy products through product characters with sharia-based innovations. The research method used is a qualitative approach. This study involved 20 figure craftsmen in the Kudus district, Central Java, Indonesia. The data were obtained using observation, interviews, and in-depth discussion with the respondents. Data analysis uses the Miles and Huberman model, namely reducing data, tabulating, presenting data, and drawing conclusions. The result of the research is the development of creative industries figura handicrafts through the innovation of sharia-based products that are handicrafts that have artistic value to be enjoyed and contained the meaning of promoting the teachings of Islam. Furthermore, diversification of figura products that use technology makes figura product innovation an advantage, novelty, and change. In the future, it is expected to develop creative industries, increasing innovation through the diversity of products.
Masalah Vehicle Routing Problem Pada Pengiriman Barang di kota Bandung utara dengan menggunakan Kluster KMeans dan Algoritma Nearest Neighbor
Authors: Agustine Debby , Hadi Ibnu Hadi , Devi Eka Wardani Meganingtyas
Published: August 2022

The Vehiscle Routing Problem is an optimization problem in determining the route of packet distribution with limited vehicle capacity. Routing in the distribution of packets is important so that the shortest route will be sought so that the package arrives on time. One of the algorithms that discusses the search for vehicle routes with VRP problems is the Nearest Neighbor Algorithm, as for the stages in finding the best route by enumerating all possible sequences of existing routes and selecting the best set of routes in order to find the shortest route from one node to all other nodes. so it becomes a connected route.
The Expression of Defensin-Associated Genes May Be Correlated With Lymph Node Metastasis of Early-Stage Tongue Cancer
Authors: Lee Doh Young , Hah J. Hun , Jeong Woo-Jin , Chung Eun-Jae , Kwon Tack-Kyun , Ahn Soon-Hyun , Sung Myung-Whun , Kwon Seong Keun
Published: August 2022

Objectives. We aimed to assess the genetic differences between cases of early-stage tongue cancer that were positive or negative for lymph node metastasis.Methods. In total, 35 cases of tongue cancer with RNA sequencing data were enrolled in this study. The gene expression profile of the following two groups was compared: N0 group (T stage 1 or 2 with N0 stage) and N+ group (T stage 1 or 2 with N+ stage). Using the R and limma packages in the Bioconductor program, we extracted the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology and pathway enrichment analysis were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integration Discovery (DAVID) online tool. Immune cell infiltration was analyzed using the CIBERSORT online program. Immunochemical staining of the cancer tissue was evaluated and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data were analyzed to validate the identified DEGs.Results. No significant differences were found in the infiltration of 22 types of immune cells. Among a total of 51 identified DEGs, 14 genes were significantly upregulated, while 37 genes were significantly downregulated (P<0.01; fold change >2). Pathway analysis revealed significant associations with the arachidonic acid metabolism-related pathway, calcium signaling, and the muscle contraction pathway. The following DEGs were the most significantly different between the two groups: DEFB4A, SPRR2B, DEFB103B, SPRR2G, DEFB4B, and FAM25A. TCGA data showed that DEFB4A and DEFB103B were more highly expressed in the N0 group than in the N+ group, although the difference did not achieve statistical significance. Immunochemical staining of cancer tissue revealed significantly higher expression of defensin in the N0 group.Conclusions. Defensin (DEFB4A, DEFB103B, DEFB4B) may be a novel biomarker for early regional metastasis in T1/2 tongue cancer.
Preiser's Disease as a Consequence of Scaphoid Hypoplasia After Remote Index Finger Repositioning
Authors: Pipkin William , Frangenberg Alex , Pientka William F.
Published: August 2022

Case:

We present the case of a patient who developed scaphoid avascular necrosis in the setting of scaphoid hypoplasia, 37 years after an index finger repositioning for thumb agenesis, due to Holt-Oram syndrome.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is a unique case of scaphoid avascular necrosis in a patient with Holt-Oram syndrome with scaphoid hypoplasia who underwent index finger repositioning 37 years earlier. Her wrist pain was successfully treated with scaphoid excision and intercarpal fusion.
Live-fire validation of command-detonation residues testing using a 60 mm IMX-104 munition
Authors: Beal Samuel , Bigl Matthew , Ramsey Charles
Published: August 2022

Command detonation (i.e., static firing) provides a method of testing munitions for their postdetonation residues early in the acquisition process. However, necessary modifications to the firing train and cartridge orientation raise uncertainty whether command detonation accurately represents residue deposition as it occurs during live-fire training. This study col-ected postdetonation residues from live-fired 60 mm IMX-104 mortar cartridges and then compared estimated energetic-compound deposition rates between live fire and prior command detonations of the same munition. Average live-fire deposition rates of IMX-104 compounds determined from 11 detonations were 3800 mg NTO (3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one), 34 mg DNAN (2,4-dinitroanisole), 12 mg RDX (1,3,5-Trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-Triazine), and 1.9 mg HMX (1,3,5,7-Tetranitro-1,3,5,7-Tetrazocane) per cartridge. Total live-fire residue deposition (mean ± standard deviation: 3800 ± 900 mg/cartridge) was not significantly different from command detonation using a representative fuze simulator (3800 ± 900 mg/cartridge, n = 7, p = 0.76) but was significantly different from command detonation using a simplified fuze simulator (2200 ± 500 mg/cartridge, n = 7, p < 0.01). While the dominant residue compound NTO was broadly similar between live fire and command detonation, the minor residue compounds RDX and DNAN were underestimated during command detonation by a factor of approximately three to seven.
Low-stress livestock handling protects cattle in a five-predator habitat
Authors: Louchouarn Naomi X , Treves Adrian
Published: August 2022

Given the ecological importance of top predators, societies are turning to non-lethal methods for coexistence. Coexistence is challenging when livestock graze within wild predator habitats. We report a randomized, controlled experiment to evaluate low-stress livestock handling (L-SLH), a form of range riding, to deter grizzly (brown) bears, gray wolves, cougars, black bears, and coyotes in Southwestern Alberta. The treatment condition was supervision by two newly hired and trained range riders and an experienced L-SLH-practicing range rider. This treatment was compared against a baseline pseudo-control condition of the experienced range rider working alone. Cattle experienced zero injuries or deaths in either condition. We infer that inexperienced range riders trained and supervised by an experienced rider did not raise or lower the risk to cattle. Also, predators did not shift to the cattle herds protected by fewer range riders. We found a correlation suggesting grizzly bears avoided herds visited more frequently by range riders practicing L-SLH. More research is required to compare different forms of range riding. However, pending experimental evaluation of other designs, we recommend use of L-SLH. We discuss cobenefits of this husbandry method.
Fibrillin microfibril structure identifies long-range effects of inherited pathogenic mutations affecting a key regulatory latent TGFβ-binding site
Authors: Baldock Clair , Godwin Alan , Thomson Jennifer , Holmes David , Adamo Christin , Sengle Gerhard , Sherratt Michael , Roseman Alan , Dajani Rana , Zhang Xinyang
Published: August 2022

Genetic mutations in fibrillin microfibrils cause serious inherited diseases such as Marfan syndrome (MFS) and Weill-Marchesani syndrome (WMS). These diseases typically show major dysregulation of tissue development and growth, particularly in skeletal long bones, but links between the mutations and the diseases are unknown. In this study, we reveal the detailed cryo-EM structure of native fibrillin microfibrils from mammalian tissue. The major bead region showed pseudo 8-fold symmetry where the N-and C-termini reside. Based on this structure, we show a WMS-deletion mutant induces a rearrangement blocking interaction with latent TGFβ-binding protein (LTBP)-1 at a remote site. Separate deletion of this binding site resulted in the assembly of shorter fibrillin microfibrils with structural alterations. The integrin αVβ3-binding site was also mapped onto the microfibril structure. These results establish that in complex extracellular assemblies, such as in fibrillin, mutations may have long-range structural consequences to disrupt growth factor signalling and cause disease.
Clinical characteristic and survival analysis of distant metastatic sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma: A study of 378 patients
Authors: xing zibao , Chen Yongjie , Cai Gaoping , Chen Shiwei
Published: August 2022

Objective:To analyse the clinical characteristic and survival of distant metastatic sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma(sRCC), compare the differences between single lung metastases and single bone metastases, and identify the prognostic factors for distant metastatic sRCC patients.Methods: Data from the SEER database between 2004 and 2016 were analyzed, overall survival (OS) between different groups were compared by the Kaplan-Meier method and the Log-rank test, prognostic factors associated with OS were identified by univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models.Results: Among the 378 patients with distant metastatic sRCC, 128 were single lung metastases(33.86%), 66 were single bone metastases(17.47%), 59 were “lung + bone” metastases(15.60%), and the total number of other sites of metastases was 125(33.07%).Patients with single lung metastases had a higher proportion of T3 and T4 stages than those with single bone metastases( P＜0.001).The median OS of 378 patients was 4 months, and there was no statistically significant difference in OS between patients with single lung metastases and single bone metastases (χ2=4.643, P = 0.200). Surgery(cytoreductive nephrectomy) and chemotherapy were good prognostic factors for patients with distant metastatic sRCC regardless of sites of metastases , as well as for patients with single lung metastases,while chemotherapy was not found to affect the OS of patients with single bone metastases.Conclusion: Distant metastatic sRCC had a very poor prognosis, single lung metastases and single bone metastases were main metastatic sites and had different characteristics and prognostic factors,patients should receive specific treatment and management.
The economical and reliable image free navigation system for acetabular cup implantation in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: PATRO BISHNU PRASAD , Mahapatra Manas Mohan , Jain Divesh
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Implantation of acetabular cup is the cornerstone in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Functional outcome of THA is related to acetabular inclination and anteversion besides other parameter like; stability, limb length alignment, capsule closure etc. Various navigation and robotic equipment’s are available to assist the surgeon to place the hip implant in right version. High cost, steep learning curve and safety of equipment has restricted its use less than one percent.Materials and Methods:We have designed an image free navigation device to assist the surgeon to implant the acetabular cup in right inclination and anteversion. The experiment has been performed on an artificial hip bone structure. Historically a total of 50 iteration of the angle measurements were performed to access accuracy of the device. The images from each of the measurement was imported in ImageJ software to find out the actual angle. The principle of openCV is used for image processing in our navigation device.Results:The results of the study found the angle of inclination mean error of 0.15° with standard deviation of 0.44° with a p value <0.05, which is very significant. Similarly the angle of anteversion mean error was -1.06° with standard deviation of 0.34° and p value < 0.05, which is very significant. The tool provides a good accuracy with an error of less than1.5-2 degrees.Conclusion:Our image processing device delivered promising results with regards to acetabular inclination and acetabular anteversion in invitro studies. The tool is compact, can be easily transported in a briefcase and can be used without any extensive training. Besides an initial cost of few thousand rupees, the recurring cost in each surgery is less than 200 rupees. We presume this is the world’s most economical navigation tool which is reproducible and reliable.
Effect of interval between oocyte retrieval and resuscitation embryo transfer on pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Wan Qi , Chen Ming-Xing , Wang Xue-Jiao , Tan Li , Yu Hui-Jun , LV Xing-Yu , Zhong Zhao-Hui , Tang Xiao-Jun , Ding Yu-Bin , Xia Min , Li Yuan
Published: August 2022

Resuscitation transfer of embryos after elective cryopreservation is gaining popularity worldwide owing to higher implantation rates. This method separates oocyte retrieval from embryo transfer. The optimal time for frozen embryo transfer (FET) remains unknown. This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the difference in pregnancy outcomes between patients who underwent immediate FET and those who underwent delayed FET. We analyzed real-world data of patients who underwent resuscitation transplantation between October 2019 and July 2021 at the Reproductive Center of Chengdu Jinjiang Hospital for Women’s and Children’s Health. Propensity score matching was applied to control for potential confounding factors. A total of 5549 patients who received at least one FET were analyzed. Patients undergoing transplantation within 60 days of oocyte retrieval were included in the immediate FET group (n = 1265) and those undergoing transplantation > 60 days after retrieval were included in the delayed FET group (n = 4284). Live birth rates between the two groups were comparable (45.25% vs. 45.76%, p = 0.757). Moreover, no difference was observed in the rates of biochemical pregnancy (64.50% vs. 66.80%), clinical pregnancy (55.24% vs. 56.83%), ectopic pregnancy (1.47% vs. 1.39%), early miscarriage (14.41% vs. 16.20%), late miscarriage (2.21% vs. 2.09%), singleton premature delivery (16.67% vs. 18.29%), and neonatal deformity (1.97% vs. 1.80%). After stratifying the patients based on the type of embryo transferred, number of embryos transferred, FET protocol, and good prognosis criteria, live birth rates remained comparable between the two groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, pregnancy outcomes were comparable between the immediate and delayed FET groups.
Photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline antibiotic and organic dyes using biogenic synthesized CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite: Pathways and mechanism insights
Authors: Kaushal Sandeep , Kumar Avdhesh , Bains Himani , Singh Prit Pal
Published: August 2022

Tetracycline (TC) is a frequently administered antibiotic in many countries, due to its low price and excellent potency. However, certain antibiotics can be hazardous to living creatures due to their accumulation by complexation with metal ions which can contribute to teratogenicity and carcinogenicity. In this investigation, ferrous oxide-copper oxide nanocomposite (CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite) were synthesised employing Psidium guajava (P. guajava) leaf extract as a reductant and a capping agent in an environment friendly and economical green synthesis method. The as-synthesized CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite were comprehensively characterized using various sophisticated techniques and their efficiency as photocatalyst for degradation of TC antibiotic and toxic dyes i.e. rhodamine B (RhB) and methylene blue (MB) was investigated. The CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite exhibited exceptional efficiency for degradation of TC antibiotic (88% removal in 80 min), RhB (96% removal in 40 min) and MB (93% elimination in 40 min) with apparent rate constant of 0.048, 0.068 and 0.032 min− 1. In the degradation experiments, photocatalytic activities of CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite were studied by varying different factors such as time of contact, catalyst dose and solution pH. The role of reactive species in antibiotics and dye degradation was validated by radical scavenging studies which indicated that .OH radical has a critical role in photocatalytic decomposition. Furthermore, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) investigations were employed to anticipate a plausible mechanism for TC degradation.
The CASPer Preparation Program Innovation: Increasing Self-Perceived Competence and Confidence of Underrepresented Applicants on the Novel CASPer Snapshot and CanMEDS Roles
Authors: Mahmood Farhan , Oguntala Julianah , Henoud Claudine , Pierre-Louis Libny Lahelle , Fuad Asli , Okafor Ike
Published: August 2022

Background: Underrepresented Minorities in Medicine (URMMs) may face financial and social limitations when matriculating into medical schools. Performance on situational judgment tests such as Computer-based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics (CASPer) can be enhanced by coaching and mentorship. The CASPer Preparation Program (CPP) coaches URMMs to prepare for the CASPer test. During the coronavirus 2019 pandemic (COVID-19), CPP implemented novel curricula on the CASPer Snapshot and CanMEDS roles.Methods: Pre and post-program questionnaires were completed by the students, which assessed their: 1) confidence in understanding the CanMEDS roles, and 2) perceived confidence in performing well and their familiarity and preparedness with the CASPer Snapshot.Results: Participants reported a significant increase in the URMMs’ knowledge, self-perceived competency to complete the CASPer Snapshot, and their anxiety significantly decreased. The level of confidence in understanding CanMEDS roles for a career in healthcare increased as well. The majority (91%) agreed that the feedback received from tutors was adequate and the virtual component of the program was beneficial during COVID-19.Conclusion: Pathway coaching programs have the potential to increase confidence and familiarity amongst URMMs for the CASPer tests and CanMEDS roles. Similar programs should be developed with the aim to increase the chances of URMMs matriculating into medical schools.
Cellular and humoral SARS-CoV2 vaccination responses in 192 adult recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Wehr Claudia , Meyer Thomas , Ihorst Gabriele , Bartsch Ingrid , Zeiser Robert , Wäsch Ralph , Bertz Hartmut , Finke Jürgen , Huzly Daniela
Published: August 2022

To determine factors influencing the vaccination response against SARS-CoV2 is of importance in recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) as they display an increased mortality after SARS-CoV2 infection, an increased risk of extended viral persistence and reduced vaccination response. Real-life data on anti-SARS-CoV2-S1-IgG titres (n = 192) and IFN-γ release (n = 110) of allo-HCT recipients were obtained using commercially available, validated assays after vaccination with either mRNA (BNT™, Moderna™) or vector based vaccines (AstraZeneca™, Johnson/Johnson™) or after a heterologous protocol (vector/mRNA). Humoral response (78% response rate) was influenced by age, time after transplantation, the usage of ATG and ongoing immunosuppression, specifically corticosteroids. High counts of B cells during the vaccination period correlated with a humoral response. Only half (55%) of participants showed a cellular vaccination response. It depended on age, time after transplantation, ongoing immunosuppression with ciclosporin A, cGvHD and vaccination type with vector based protocols favoring response. Cellular response failure correlated with higher CD8 + count and activated/HLA-DR + T cells one year after transplantation. Our data provide the basis to assess both humoral and cellular responses after SARS-CoV2 vaccination in daily practice, thereby opening the possibility to identify patients at risk.
Development of Python Application for Automated Geomatics Data Processing, Analysis, and Visualisation
Authors: Ugwuanyi Ifeanyi A. , Anejionu Obinna C.D.
Published: August 2022

Emerging technologies have led to the rapid generation of vast quantities of field data by geomatics professionals. However, these raw field data cannot be directly utilised unless they undergo rigorous processing (using complex mathematical models e.g. - reductions, adjustments, and computations) to convert them to meaningful information. These operations are often repetitive. Despite global advancement in automated data processing, most surveyors in developing countries such as Nigeria still deploy manual surveying computation techniques for their day-to-day data processing and analysis needs. Hence, the development of cost effective and easy-to-use automated applications based on the existing models is highly relevant, to ease operations requiring repeated processes. This study developed a Python-based geomatics application “Survey Companion” that can streamline the processing of survey field data into meaningful spatial information. To achieve these, python codes were written for the processing of data from key geomatics operations such as traverse and levelling networks, resection, intersection, and bathymetric operations as well as area computation. It is expected that this application will greatly improve survey operations in developing countries as well as increase the speed of data processing, thereby reducing overall project costs.
Prediction of estimated risk for bipolar disorder using machine learning and structural MRI features
Authors: Mikolas Pavol , Marxen Michael , Riedel Philipp , Bröckel Kyra , Martini Julia , Huth Fabian , Berndt Christina , Vogelbacher Christoph , Jansesn Andreas , Kircher Tilo , Falkenberg Irina , Lambert Martin , Kraft Vivien , Leicht Gregor , Mulert Christoph , Fallgatter Andreas , Ethofer Thomas , Rau Anne , Leopold Karolina , Bechdolf Andreas , Reif Andreas , Matura Silke , Bermpohl Felix , Fiebig Jana , Stamm Thomas , Correll Christoph , Juckel Georg , Flasbeck Vera , ritter philipp , Bauer Michael , Pfennig Andrea
Published: August 2022

Individuals with bipolar disorder are commonly correctly diagnosed a decade after the onset of first symptoms. Machine learning techniques may aid in early recognition and reduce the disease burden. As both individuals at risk and those with a manifest disease display structural brain markers, structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may provide relevant classification features. Following a pre-registered protocol, we trained linear support vector machine (SVM) to classify individuals according to their estimated risk for bipolar disorder using regional cortical thickness values of help-seeking individuals from 7 study sites (N = 276). We estimated the risk using three state-of-the-art assessment instruments (BPSS-P, BARS and EPIbipolar). For BPSS-P, SVM achieved a fair performance of Cohen's kappa of 0.235 (95% CI 0.11–0.361) and a balanced accuracy of 63.1% (95% CI 55.9–70.3) in the 10-fold crossvalidation. In the leave-one-site-out crossvalidation, the model performed with a Cohen's kappa of 0.128 (95% CI -0.069-0.325) and a balanced accuracy of 56.2% (95% CI 44.6–67.8). BARS and EPIbipolar could not be predicted. In post hoc analyses, regional surface area, subcortical volumes as well as hyperparameter optimization did not improve the performance. Individuals at risk for bipolar disorder, as assessed by BPSS-P, display brain structural alterations that can be detected using machine learning. The achieved performance is comparable to previous studies which attempted to classify patients with manifest disease and healthy controls. Unlike previous studies of bipolar risk, our multicenter design permitted a leave-one-site-out crossvalidation. Whole brain cortical thickness seem to be superior to other structural brain features.
Psychotropic Consumption Before and During Covid-19 in Asturias, Spain
Authors: García Dra. María Luisa Nicieza , Martínez Dra. Paula Fernández , Bretón Dra. Eva Fernández , Dra Marta María Martínez Alfonso , Gil Patricio Suárez
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND: Spain as multiple other countries, has been experiencing an increasing and sustained trend in the use of psychotropic medications since the mid 90s. Recent studies show public health measures implemented to control SARS-Cov2, such as mobility restrictions and the shutdown of nonessential activities increased mental suffering, even contributing to a higher number of anxiety, depression and insomnia disorders that could lead to an increase in the consumption of psychotropics. The aims were: 1) Evaluate the temporal trend in psychotropic consumption by therapeutic subgroup, sex, and age group 2) Estimate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic in the use of psychotropic drugs.METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational study, retrieving all prescriptions of anxiolytics, hypnotics/sedatives, and antidepressants dispensed in pharmacies of Asturias (Northern Spain) for Primary Care patients for the period 2018-2021.We presented the data expressed in Daily Defined Doses (DDDs) for 1000 persons/day (DHD). To estimate changes in DHDs by year and age group we conducted 2 multiple linear regressions (one for males and one for females) for every therapeutic subgroup studied. Changes were considered statistically significant when the regression coefficient was p<0.05. We used the Software R 4.1.0.RESULTS:For the studied period, the highest DHDs are for antidepressants, although all of the subgroups experienced an increase in consumption rates.Women consumed more psychotropic drugs than men. In 2021, 372 out of every 1,000 women were taking daily 1 DDD of these drugs versus 184 out of every 1,000 men. Consumption rates for all psychotropic drugs progressively increases with age. Conversely, the biggest increases in consumption were among the youngest age groups (0-14 years, 43.2% increase and 15-29 years, 35.1% increase).The regression models suggest an upward trend in psychotropic consumption during all the period, especially remarkable from 2020, for both genders and all age groups. CONCLUSIONS:-The growing and sustained trend in consumption of psychotropic drugs for the recent years has increased since the start of the SARS-COV2 pandemic for both sexes, especially from 2020 onwards. This trend is consistent with the observed national one.-The increase observed on children and adolescents is a matter of concern.
The impact of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 inhibitors in the immune response to mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in women with breast cancer.
Authors: Saavedra Cristina , Vallejo Alejandro , Longo Federico , Serrano Juan José , Fernández-Abad María , Gion María , López-Miranda Elena , Martínez-Jáñez Noelia , Guerra Eva , Chamorro Jesús , Rosero Diana , Velasco Héctor , Martín Adrián , Carrato Alfredo , Casado Jose Luis , Cortés Alfonso
Published: August 2022

Introduction:
Patients with cancer have a higher risk of complications and death from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19), thus vaccination is crucial in this population. Oncologic therapies can affect vaccination response, but few data are available about the immune response to mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in patients with breast cancer receiving cyclin-dependent kinases 4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i). Our study aimed to assess the immunogenicity and safety of the mRNA-1273 vaccine in patients treated with CDK4/6i in comparison with a group of volunteer health workers.
Methods:
We conducted a prospective, single-center study including patients with breast cancer treated with CDK4/6i and a comparative group of health care workers (HCW). Blood samples were collected before and after first dose administration, and after second dose. The primary endpoint was to compare the rate and magnitude of humoral and T-cell responses after full vaccination. Neutralizing antibodies titers, the correlation between neutralizing and anti-S antibodies, the incidence of COVID-19 after vaccination, and safety were defined as secondary objectives.
Results:
No differences were observed in the rate of either anti-S or neutralizing antibodies after full vaccination, being 100% in both groups. A positive correlation was found between neutralizing and anti-S antibodies. However, the rate of anti-S CD4 and CD8 T-cell response after complete vaccination was a 15% lower in the CDK4/6i group, although differences were not statistically significant (CD4 T-cell response 69.2% vs 84.6%; p 0.324; anti-S T-cell CD8 response 69.2% vs 84.6%; p 0.324). No differences in the incidence of COVID-19 after vaccination were found (19.2% vs 11.5%, p 0.703). Patients with vaccine breakthrough showed lower levels of anti-S antibody after the first dose (492.29 vs 157.96; p 0.029) and lower titers of neutralizing antibodies after full vaccination (p 0.068). The rate of adverse events was higher in patients treated with CDK4/6i. No serious adverse events were reported in any of the two groups.
Conclusion:
While a robust humoral response was observed in the CDK4/6i group, a limited T cell response was found, without differences in the rate of subsequent COVID-19. Further insight into the underlying mechanisms is crucial to improve breast cancer patients’ protection and to adjust vaccination strategies in this specific population.
Pattern Discovery and Disentanglement: A New Interpretable Machine Learning Paradigm for Relational Datasets
Authors: Zhou Pei-Yuan , Wong Andrew , Lee Annie
Published: August 2022

In machine learning (ML) on relational datasets, association patterns in the data, paths in decision trees, and weights between layers of the neural network coming from multiple underlying sources are often entangled, masking the pattern-to-source relation, weakening prediction and defying explanation. This paper presents a revolutionary ML paradigm: Pattern Discovery and Disentanglement (PDD), which disentangles associations and provides an All-in-One knowledge framework and computational platform, capable of a) disentangling patterns to associate with distinct sources/classes; b) discovering rare/imbalanced groups, detecting anomalies and rectifying discrepancies to improve class association, pattern/entity clustering; c) organizing knowledge for interpretability/traceability for causal exploration with statistical support. Results from base studies validate such capabilities. The explainable knowledge reveals pattern-source relations, entity characteristics and underlying factors for causal inference, clinical study, and practice, addressing the major concern of interpretability, trust and reliability when applying ML to healthcare --- a step towards closing the AI chasm.
Effects of an Attenuated Coxsackievirus B3 Strain to Cells With Different Expression Levels of Coxsackievirus-Adenovirus Receptor
Authors: Cai Ligang , Li Junxiong , Liu Zhiyi , Tian You
Published: August 2022

Oncolytic therapy has emerged as a new method of cancer treatment next to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. RNA viruses can become oncolytic viruses as their replication occurs in the cytoplasm and they do not integrate into the host DNA. Coxsackievirus can potentially become a type of oncolytic virus because of its ability to cause disease (mainly in children) and its simple genome structure which makes genetic manipulation easy. Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) has a good cytotoxic effect on non-small cell lung cancer in vitro. At present, some locally injectable oncolytic viruses approved for clinical studies include Rigvir and CAVATAK. Nevertheless, not enough studies are available on whether CVB3 has different cytotoxic effects on Coxsackievirus-Adenovirus Receptor (CAR) cells and whether the inhibition rate of tumor tissues show variations with different CAR expression levels in vivo. In the current research, the recombinant CVB3 strain constructed and preserved in our laboratory was used as an oncolytic virus to investigate if its cytotoxic effect on lung cancer cells was related to CAR receptor expression. Because the recombinant CVB3 strain was targeted for oncolytic treatment of lung cancer, an intravenous injection was proposed. The results indicated that the expression level of CAR on the cell surface was not the only factor affecting CVB3 infection, but the sensitivity of NSCLC cell lines to CVB3 was associated with CAR expression level on the cell surface. According to in vivo studies, the CVB3 showed a better inhibitory effect on tumor tissues that have a high level of CAR expression. These findings support the intravenous administration of CVB3 for oncolytic therapy.
Household food waste and theory of planned behavior: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Srivast Saurabh Kumar , Mishra Aviral , Singh Saumya , Jaiswal Deepak
Published: August 2022

The darker side of food behavior is that millions of tons of food have been shown the doors of garbage. Therefore, food waste behavior needs an eye to look upon. The purpose of this research is to inculcate the concept of systematic literature review along with meta-analysis in order to examine the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) with respect to food waste behavior. The methodology includes Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) that is conducted for identification, screening and inclusion of studies. In all, twenty-six independent studies with (N = 13373) met the inclusion criteria. For validating the related literature, Random-effects meta-analysis has been applied for ascertaining average correlation among the variables. More specifically, the present study also examines the sub-group analysis effect among TPB variables. The findings reveal that the strongest association was observed between attitude and intention followed by subjective norms and intention, perceived behavioral control and intention, and intention and behavior. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis using multi-cultural groups explores the highest composite correlation in case other cultural groups that included country like Canada. In addition, the sample size subgroup analysis supports that the increase in sample size lead towards more strengthening of association among TPB variables. The outcomes of the present study seek to serve in the best interest of households, event management stakeholders and food policy makers.
Micronutrients and Nutritional Status among Children living with HIV with and without Severe Acute Malnutrition: IMPAACT P1092
Authors: Bwakura-Dangarembizi Mutsa , Ziemba Lauren , Tierney Camlin , Reding Christina , Bone Frederic , Bradford Sarah , Costello Diane , Browning Renee , Moye John , Vhembo Tichaona , Ngocho James S. , Mallewa Macpherson , Chinula Lameck , Musoke Philippa , Owor Maxensia
Published: August 2022

Background:Micronutrient deficiencies due to malabsorption, gut infections, and altered gut barrier function are common in children living with HIV (CLHIV) and may worsen with severe acute malnutrition (SAM).Methods:This secondary analysis of IMPAACT P1092, a Phase IV, multicenter, open label, non-randomized study of zidovudine (ZDV), lamivudine (3TC), and lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability enrolled SAM and non-SAM CLHIV age 6 to <36 months. Children initiated WHO recommended nutritional rehabilitation prior to enrollment when indicated at screening and were stratified by nutritional status and followed for 48 weeks. Zinc, selenium, serum protein and albumin were measured at entry and week 48 with albumin and total protein serum also measured at weeks 8 and 16. ResultsFifty-two participants, 25 SAM and 27 non-SAM, of median (Q1,Q3) age 19 (13,25) and 18 (12,25) months respectively, were enrolled. Zinc deficiency was present at entry in 2/27 (8%) from the SAM cohort. Mean (SD) baseline zinc levels for the SAM and non-SAM cohort [52.2(15.3), 54.7(12.2) µg/dL] and selenium [92.9(25.0), 84.3(29.2) µg/L] were similar, and there was no difference in change from study entry to week 48 for both: mean (95% CI) difference SAM minus non-SAM of -0.3 (-11.2,10.5) µg/dL and -5.1 (-20.1,9.8) µg/L for zinc and selenium respectively. Mean (SD) baseline total protein levels [75.2(13.2), 77.3(9.4) g/L] and mean change from entry to 48 weeks were similar between cohorts (mean difference (95% CI) (4.6 (-2.4,11.6). The SAM cohort had significantly lower serum albumin levels at entry compared to the non-SAM cohort (mean difference (95% CI) 6.2 (-10.1, -2.4) g/L) and levels were similar after 48 weeks (mean difference (95% CI) 0.4 (-2.2, 2.9) g/L). Mean increase in albumin at 48 weeks was greater in the SAM cohort (mean difference (95% CI) 6.3 (1.9, 10.7) g/L). ConclusionsThese children who were on highly active combination antiretroviral therapy and had malnutrition showed normal levels of selenium and zinc after 10-18 days of nutritional rehabilitation. Entry albumin levels were lower in SAM compared to non-SAM, with normalization to non-SAM levels by 48 weeks. Total protein levels were similar at entry and week 48.Trial RegistrationThe study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01818258 26/03/2013
Early versus delayed surgery in hip fracture patients who underwent hip arthroplasty
Authors: Liu Shencai , Fan Lei , Wang Jian , Shi Zhanjun , Li Tao
Published: August 2022

Background
Hip arthroplasty (HA) is one of the effective procedures for patients with hip fractures. The surgery timing played an important role in the short-term outcomes in these patients, but conflicting evidence reported.
Methods
The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was investigated from 2002 to 2014 and identified 247377 patients with hip fractures underwent HA. The sample was stratified into ultra-early (0 day), early (1–2 days) and delayed (3–14 days) groups based on time to surgery. Yearly trends, postoperative surgical and medical complications, postoperative length of hospital stay (POS) and total costs were compared after propensity score matched between groups by demographics and comorbidity.
Results
The hip fracture patients underwent HA increased from 30.61% in 2002 to 31.98% in 2014. Early surgery groups reduced medical complications but increased surgical complications. However, specific complication evaluation showed both ultra-early and early groups reduced most of the surgical and medical complications with increasing post hemorrhagic anemia and fever. Ultra-early group also reduced medical complications, but increased surgical complication. Early surgery groups reduced the POS by 0.90 to 1.05 days and total hospital charges by 32.6 to 44.9 percent than delayed. Ultra-early surgery showed no beneficial effect of POS than early, but reduced total hospital charges by 12.2 percent.
Conclusion
HA surgery performed within 2 days showed more beneficial effects over adverse events than delayed. But surgeons should be recognizant of the potential increased risks of mechanical complications and post hemorrhagic anemia.
Knockdown of METTL16 Disrupts Learning and Memory by Reducing the Stability of MAT2A mRNA
Authors: Li Sha , Zhang Runjiao , Zhang Yizhou , Guo Fangzhen , Huang Guannan , Zhao Yan , Chen Bingyu , Wang Chang , Cui Chengran , Shi Yichun , Cui Huixian
Published: August 2022

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is abundant in the mammalian brain and is considered to have a wide range of effects on learning and memory. Here, we found that the upregulated methyltransferase-like protein 16 (METTL16) in the hippocampal tissues of Morris water maze (MWM)-trained mice contributed to improved memory formation and hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Mechanismly, METTL16 promoted the expression of methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) by the m6A methylation of the MAT2A mRNA 3′UTR-end to increase its stability, and this involved in improving hippocampal global m6A levels, plasticity of dendritic spine, learning and memory. This study provides a new perspective to explore the regulatory mechanisms of m6A for learning and memory.
Imputation-powered whole-exome analysis identifies rare coding variants and genes associated with kidney function and disease in the UK Biobank
Authors: Wuttke Matthias , König Eva , Katsara Maria-Alexandra , Kirsten Holger , Farahani Saeed Khomeijani , Teumer Alexander , Li Yong , Lang Martin , Göçmen Burulça , Pattaro Cristian , Günzel Dorothee , Fuchsberger Christian , Kottgen Anna
Published: August 2022

Genome-wide association studies have discovered hundreds of associations between common genotypes and kidney function but cannot comprehensively investigate rare coding variants. Here, we applied a genotype imputation approach to whole exome sequencing data from the UK Biobank to increase sample size from 166,891 to 408,511. We detected 158 rare variants and 105 genes significantly associated with one or more of five kidney function traits, including genes not previously linked to kidney disease in humans. The imputation-powered findings derive support from clinical record-based kidney disease information, such as for a novel splice allele in PKD2, and from functional studies of a novel frameshift allele in CLDN10. This cost-efficient approach boosts statistical power to detect and characterize both known and novel disease susceptibility variants and genes, can be generalized to larger future studies, and generates a comprehensive resource (https://ckdgen-ukbb.gm.eurac.edu/) to direct experimental and clinical studies of kidney disease.