bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and prevalence of alcoholic fatty liver disease: a prospective, community-based study among adult Sri Lankans
Authors: Niriella Madunil , Kasturiratne Anuradhani , Beddage Thulani , De Silva Shamila , AS Dassanayake , Pathmeswaran Arunasalam , Wickramasinghe Rajitha , Kato Norihiro , de Silva Janaka
Published: May 2022

Background
Data on alcoholic fatty liver (AFL) is limited. We investigated patterns of alcohol use and AFL, among urban, adult, Sri Lankans.
Methods
The study population (selected by age-stratified random sampling) was screened in 2007 (35–64 years) and re-evaluated in 2014. On both occasions they were assessed by structured-interview, anthropometric measurements, liver-ultrasound, biochemical and serological tests. AFL was diagnosed on ultrasound criteria, ‘unsafe’ alcohol consumption (Asian standards: males > 14units, females > 7units per-week) and absence of hepatitis B/C markers. Controls were unsafe alcohol consumers who had no fatty liver on ultrasound.
Results
2985/3012 (99%) had complete data for analysis. 272/2985 (9.1%) were unsafe-drinkers in 2007 [males-270; mean-age-51.9, SD-8.0 years]. 86/272 (31.6%) had AFL [males-85; mean-age-50.2, SD-8.6 years]. Males [p < 0.001], increased waist-circumference (WC) [OR 4.9, p < 0.01] and BMI > 23kg/m2 [OR 3.5, p < 0.01] and raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT) [OR 2.8, p < 0.01] were independently associated with AFL. 173/272 (63.6%) unsafe alcohol consumers from 2007 were re-evaluated in 2014. 134/173 had either had AFL and/or had changed to ‘safe’ or no alcohol consumption. 21/39 (53.8%) [males-21 (100%), mean-age-57.9, SD-7.9 years] who remained ‘unsafe’ alcohol users who had no fatty liver in 2007, developed AFL after 7-years (annual incidence 7.7%). On bivariate analysis, only males were associated with new-onset AFL. Of the 42 who had AFL at baseline but changed their drinking status from unsafe to safe or no alcohol, 6 had resolution of fatty liver in 2014.
Conclusion
In conclusion, in this community-based study among urban Sri Lankan adults, the annual incidence of AFL among unsafe alcohol users was 7.7%. New onset AFL was associated with males.
Cervical kyphosis was reversed into lordosis by cervical manipulation: A case report with 9 months follow-up
Authors: Pei Shuai , You Junyi , Li Yuwei , Shen Xiaofeng , Yu Jie , Feng Minshan , Yin Xunlu , Yu Pengfei , Jiang Hong
Published: May 2022

BackgroundCervical kyphosis (CK) is an abnormal structure that accelerates cervical disc degeneration and causes neck pain. Nearly a quarter of young people have CK, yet its treatment remains controversial. Case presentation We present an interesting case of CK; In this case report, a 32-year-old male patient with neck pain was seen in our hospital, whose cervical sagittal alignment was kyphotic and was given a cervical manipulation therapy (CMT). CK was subsequently reversed into lordosis in one day after the treatment along with the patient’s clinical symptoms alleviated. Three months later, the patient complained his neck pain had come back, so we scheduled him a second X-ray. We gave him a second CMT because the radiograph showed he got CK again. A follow-up after 6 months showed that the patient’s neck pain relieved and the cervical spine was still lordotic. ConclusionsIt suggested that CK can be reversed into CL by CMT immediately, but requires continuous treatment at the early stage; neck pain may relate to CK.
Dietary pattern related to physical examination indicators in Tibetan migrants：A cross-sectional study
Authors: Su Rui , Zhang Wenrui , Huang Jie , Fan Jing , Peng Ping , Li Hao , Zhang Delong , LI Yong , Ma Hailin , Nie Lijuan , Li Zixuan
Published: May 2022

Background: Although dietary patterns of highlander have been widely investigated, no study has explored the relationship between dietary patterns and physical examination indicators in high-altitude migrants. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary and physiological indexes and explore the suitable dietary patterns of Tibetan migrants. Methods: 116 participants who had migrated to Tibet for > 2 years were recruited. Dietary patterns and physical examination indicators were assessed using a self-adjusted food frequency questionnaire and blood gas analysis, and six principal dietary patterns were obtained using principal component analysis. Results: The following results were obtained: adherence to a coarse grain dietary pattern was positively associated with mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (odds ratio (OR) = 1.077, p = 0.054) and negatively associated with urea level (OR = 0.601, p = 0.013). High meat dietary pattern is positively associated with creatinine level (OR = 1.050, p = 0.023) but negatively associated with glomerular filtration rate (OR = 0.960, p = 0.020). Adherence to the beverage dietary pattern was positively associated with uric acid levels (OR = 1.005, p = 0.044). High fruit intake is positively correlated with aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase level (OR = 5.271, p = 0.005) and red blood cell count (OR = 4.805, p = 0.033). An unhealthy dietary pattern was positively correlated with lymphocyte counts (OR = 2.904, p = 0.011). Conclusions: In summary, a coarse grain-rich diet is suitable for Tibetan migrants. However, meat and fruit should not be consumed in excessive amounts, and sweetened drinks and alcohol should be avoided.
Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures via anterolateral and posterolateral approaches
Authors: Shen Jie , Zhao Jiaju , Yi Nan , Zhang Yong , Zuo Zhicheng , Chai LuLu , Jiang Bo
Published: May 2022

Background: The present study aimed to analyze and compare the efficacy of the anterolateral and posterolateral approaches for surgical treatment of supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures.Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 60 patients (60 feet) with supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures, including 30 patients (30 feet) treated via the anterolateral approach and 30 patients (30 feet) treated via the posterolateral approach. Postoperative clinical efficacy was compared between the groups based on operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, fracture healing time, visual analog scale (VAS) scores, Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) scores, and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores. Comparisons between the two groups were performed using independent-samples t-tests and analyses of variance. Intra-group differences were compared using paired t-tests, and the Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables.Results: All 60 included patients completed follow-up ranging from 12 to 18 months (mean duration: 14.8±3.5 months). Although baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups, there were significant differences in operation time (86.73±17.44 min vs. 111.23±10.05 min, P<0.001) and intraoperative blood loss (112.60±25.05 ml vs. 149.47±44.30 ml, P<0.001). Although fracture healing time (10.90±0.66 weeks vs. 11.27±0.94 weeks, P=0.087) was shorter in the anterolateral group than in the posterolateral group, the difference was not significant. Postoperative complications occurred in one and three patients in the anterolateral and posterolateral approach groups, respectively. VAS scores were significantly lower in the anterolateral group than in the posterolateral group (1.43±0.50 vs. 1.83±0.75, P=0.019), although there was no significant difference in SF-36 scores between the groups (73.63±4.07 vs. 72.70±4.04, P=0.377). However, AOFAS scores were higher in the anterolateral group than in the posterolateral group (80.43±4.32 vs. 75.43±11.32, P=0.030).Conclusion: Both the anterolateral and posterior lateral approaches can achieve good results in the treatment of supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures. Compared with the posterolateral approach, the anterolateral approach is advantageous for the treatment of supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures given its safety and ability to reduce trauma, provide clear exposure, and allow for exploration and repair of the inferior tibiofibular anterior syndesmosis within the same incision.
TCRosetta: a powerful server for analyzing and annotating T-cell receptor repertoire
Authors: Yue Tao , Chen Si-Yi , Shen Wen-Kang , Cheng Liming , Guo An-Yuan
Published: May 2022

Background
Analyzing the T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire is important with the advent of precision medicine and immunotherapy, as TCR repertoire could serve as a biomarker of immune response and disease progression. Though many TCR analysis methods have been developed for analyzing various aspects of the TCR repertoire, the usage of these methods requires experience in bioinformatics and is technically cumbersome. There is an urgent need to develop an easy-used online server for TCR repertoire analysis.
Methods
TCR CDR3 sequence with clinical information were collected from TCRdb. In TCR repertoire general analysis, Renyi entropy and 1-Pielou’s index was used to calculate diversity and clonality of the TCR repertoire, respectively. GIANA and iGraph were used to discover possible disease-specific TCR CDR3 sequences and construct a TCR network in network analysis. OLGA was used to calculate the generation probability of a CDR3 sequence in healthy individuals in public analysis. PHATE was used to embed TCR repertoire in embedding analysis.
Results
In this study, we introduce TCRosetta, a powerful platform for analyzing and annotating TCR repertoire. Above 244 million complementary determining region 3 (CDR3) sequences of TCR beta chain (TRB) with disease information are integrated into the webserver, enabling big-data-based CDR3 annotation for the first time. The main functions of TCRosetta are as follows: (i) General feature analysis for TCR repertoire, including diversity, V/J gene usage, CDR3 length distribution, and clonality etc.; (ii) Annotate the disease preference of TCR repertoire and TRB CDR3 sequences; (iii) TCR repertoire network construction and analysis; (iv) Calculate generation probability of TRB CDR3 sequences. TCRosetta is the first comprehensive online server for TCR repertoire analysis and is useful for immunology research.
Biomarkers related to eRNAs predict early diagnosis and prognosis of colon cancer patients
Authors: Han Xinhao , Tian Wei , Sun Lin , Wang Hongying , Li Yan , Jia Huixun , Gao Guohong , Mai Liudan , Yin Shuwen , Zhang Qiuju , Liu Yanlong
Published: May 2022

We aimed to explore the potential roles of enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) and their target enhancer regulated genes (ERGs) in the diagnosis and prognosis of colon cancer. The selected colorectal cancer cases (stage I-III) from the TCGA were used as a training cohort and the GEO as a validation cohort. In the first part, ERGs related to diagnosis and TNM classification were identified by limma and univariate analyses. Then, based on the logistic regression model, a diagnosis score model was established. In the second half, ultimate ERGs were screened through three steps: the potential, candidates, and prognosis ERGs. Multivariate cox analysis was recruited to identify independently prognostic factors. The biology significance and clinical application of the genes obtained were investigated in different aspects. 2 ERGs (AXIN2, SLC12A2) were filtered, and the AUC of the diagnostic model was 0.94 and 0.89 respectively. Based on the multiple tiers of strict screening, 11 ERGs were obtained which were combined a signature. The model was reliable in distinguishing the risk of stage Ⅰ-Ⅲ colon patients, with 0.78, 0.70 at 5, 7 years and 0.73, 0.70 in the validation set, and also yielded good calibration. In this study, the usefulness and specificity of the ERGs markers in diagnosis and prognosis were described, which should be considered as a key feature in early examination, warning, and clinical guidance of colon cancer. We conclude that the major implications of the enhancers and ERGs should be valued, which would be an emerging hallmark in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer.
The leaf anatomical trade-offs associated with plant ecological strategy variation
Authors: Pierce Simon , Maffi Dario , Faoro Franco , Cerabolini Bruno E.L. , Spada Alberto
Published: May 2022

Plant functioning depends on variation in resource economics traits (acquisition vs. conservation) and the size of plants and their parts (the ‘global spectrum of plant form and function’). The anatomical basis of single traits (e.g., leaf mass per area; LMA) is understood, but little is known regarding the relationship between anatomical trade-offs and ecological strategies (suites of traits). We hypothesised correlations between the relative extent of leaf tissue types and Grime’s Competitor Stress-tolerator Ruderal (CSR) strategies, principally a trade-off between structural (mechanical/fibro-vascular) vs. photosynthetic (chlorenchyma and intercellular airspace; ICAS) tissues, for ecologically-contrasting herbaceous angiosperms in northern Italy. Specifically, that in the lamina portion the trade-off represents the economics spectrum (S-R selection), but in the mid-vein portion it reflects the mechanical constraints inherent to large leaves (varies with C-selection). We used microscopy and image analysis to determine the relative cross-sectional area of tissues from transverse leaf sections (lamina and midvein portions) of angiosperms of contrasting CSR strategies. Principal components analysis (PCA) determined that the main spectrum was that of economics (S-R selection) characterised by a mechanical/ICAS vs. chlorenchyma/epidermis trade-off in the midvein, but contrary to expectations ICAS and chlorenchyma did not trade-off in the lamina. The secondary axis involved a trade-off between larger leaved competitors with extensive mechanical/fibrovascular tissue and small-leaved species (S and R-selected) with proportionally greater ICAS, chlorenchyma and epidermis. Our results confirm the expectation that ecological strategy variation has a basis in underlying trade-offs between tissues with contrasting physiological and structural roles.
Dysregulated Spliceosome Activity Involves Increased Intron Retention Plus Upregulation and Phosphorylation of SF3B1 in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Kashyap Manoj Kumar , Karathia Hiren , Kumar Deepak , Alvarez Roberto Vera , Lengerke-Diaz Paula A , Forero-Forero Jose Vicente , Moreno Eider , Lujan Juliana Velez , Amaya-Chanaga Carlos Ivan , Vidal Newton Medeiros , Yu Zhe , Achinko Daniel , Ghia Emanuela M. , Choi Michael Y. , Rassenti Laura Z. , Mariño-Ramírez Leonardo , Mount Stephen M. , Hannenhalli Sridhar , Kipps Thomas J. , Castro Januario E.
Published: May 2022

BackgroundAlternative splicing (AS) is a fundamental process in eukaryotes contributing to the diversity of mRNA isoforms with variable ratios of intron/exon. SF3B1 is a pivotal protein of the spliceosome machinery. Mutations in the SF3B1 gene have prognostic value in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). Our previous studies have shown that SF3B1 inhibition with macrolides induces apoptosis specifically in CLL compared with normal cells. SF3B1 inhibition is associated with a widespread increase in intron retention (IR) on most transcripts, suggesting that IR can be used as a marker of spliceosome inhibition in CLL cells. However, it is unknown how the activity of SF3B1 contributes to the spliceosome activity and the poor clinical prognosis in CLL.MethodsTo better understand this process, we performed a comprehensive analysis to quantify the abundance of individual exonic and intronic mapped reads on annotated RNA-Seq transcripts derived from the B cells of 98 CLL patients and nine healthy volunteers (Normal B cells – NBC). We calculated ratios for intron and exon abundance for each transcript and use this as a measure of intron retention (IR) and a surrogate for alternative splicing (AS).ResultsWe found that 66% of CLL B-cells transcripts had significant IR elevation compared to NBC and that transcripts with high IR were associated with low expression levels and mRNA downregulation. The IR increase in CLL B-cells was independent of prognostic factors such as IgVH or SF3B1 mutations. Transcripts with the highest IR levels belonged to biological pathways associated with gene expression and RNA splicing. Also, we observed a >2-fold increase of active pSF3B1 in CLL B-cells compared to NBC. Additionally, when the CLL-B cells were treated with macrolides (pladienolide-B), a significant decrease in pSF3B1, but not total SF3B1 protein was observed. ConclusionsOur findings suggest that IR/ARS is increased in CLL and that this process is associated with SF3B1 phosphorylation and susceptibility to SF3B1 inhibitors. These data provide additional support to the relevance of AS in carcinogenesis and evidence of pSF3B1 participation in this process.
Tissue dissociation for single-cell and single-nuclei RNA sequencing for low amounts of input material
Authors: Wiegleb Gordon , Reinhardt Susanne , Dahl Andreas , Posnien Nico
Published: May 2022

Background Recent technological advances opened the opportunity to simultaneously study gene expression for thousands of individual cells on a genome-wide scale. The experimental accessibility of such single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) approaches already allowed gaining insights into the cell type composition of heterogeneous tissue samples of animal model systems and emerging models alike. A major prerequisite for a successful application of the method is the dissociation of complex tissue into individual cells, which often requires large amounts of input material and harsh mechanical, chemical and temperature conditions. However, the availability of tissue material may be limited for small animals, specific organs, certain developmental stages or if samples need to be acquired from collected specimens. Therefore, we evaluated different dissociation protocols to obtain single-cells from small tissue samples of Drosophila melanogaster eye-antennal imaginal discs. ResultsWe show that a combination of mechanical and chemical dissociation resulted in sufficient high-quality cells. As an alternative, we tested protocols for the isolation of single nuclei, which turned out to be highly efficient for fresh and for frozen tissue samples. Eventually, we performed scRNAseq and single-nuclei RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) to show that the best protocols for both methods successfully identified relevant cell types. However, snRNAseq resulted in less artificial gene expression that is caused by rather harsh dissociation conditions needed to obtain single cells for scRNAseq. Conclusion We present two dissociation protocols that allow isolating single cells and single nuclei, respectively, from low input material. Both protocols resulted in extraction of high-quality RNA for subsequent scRNAseq or snRNAseq applications. If tissue availability is limited, we recommend the snRNAseq procedure of fresh or frozen tissue samples as it is perfectly suited to obtain thorough insights into cellular diversity of complex tissue.
Association of Genitourinary Cancer Among Patients with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Unique Pattern in a Tertiary Care Saudi Cohort
Authors: Seyam Raouf , Chaer Kenan Abou , Abouelkhair Ahmed , Almouh Arwa , Alzahrani Othman , Alghafees Mohammad , Alhamidi Razan A. , Al-Gonaim Ali , Al-Hussain Turki , Amin Tarek Mahmoud , Altaweel Waleed
Published: May 2022

Purpose
The gastrointestinal tract's most commonly occurring primary mesenchymal tumor is the gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). However, few cases worldwide were reported associated with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Therefore, we aimed to identify the association of genitourinary tumors in patients with GIST in our tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
We identified all patients in the pathology department database with the diagnosis of GIST. We excluded duplicate and recurrent cases. We examined patients’ files for the presence of RCC, adrenal tumors, or other genitourinary cancer.
Results
From 2003 to 2022, 170 patients had a histopathologic diagnosis of primary GIST, 100 men and 70 women, median age of 63 (± 15.5) years at the time of diagnosis. The site of primary GIST was gastric 103, small bowel 43, mesenteric 5, omentum/peritoneum 7, abdomen 4, isolated adrenal 1, and other 7. Eight patients had associated genitourinary cancer. Three patients had RCC (two clear cell RCC and one radiologic diagnosis only), three had adrenal tumors (one adrenal carcinoma, one an isolated adrenal GIST and one pheochromocytoma), and two had a tumor invading the urinary bladder. Although the cohort included 63 men aged 60 years old or above (median 71 ± 8.7 years, range 60–94), none demonstrated clinical prostatic carcinoma.
Conclusion
We report the rare association between GIST tumors and primary genitourinary cancer, mainly RCC and adrenal tumors. Also, we identified a secondary invasion of the urinary bladder. Unlike the reported series, none of the older male patients had clinical prostate cancer.
The clinical impact of age-specific distribution combination patterns of cytology & high-risk HPV status in the background of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade3 or greater
Authors: Sakai Mie , Ohara Tsutomu , Suzuki Haruka , Kadomoto Tatsuki , Inayama Yoshihide , Shitanaka Shimpei , Sumitomo Masahiro , Matsumura Noriomi , Yamanoi Koji
Published: May 2022

Purpose:This is the first study to elucidate the significance of cytology & high-risk Human Papillomavirus (hrHPV) status in different age groups for detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN3) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).Methods:There were 12 combinations based on cytology & hrHPV status (Cytology; ASC-US, LSIL, ASC-H and HSIL, hrHPV status; HPV16/18 positive (16/18+), hrHPV other than 16/18 positive (others+) and hrHPV negative (hrHPV-)). All patients were divided into 4 groups based on age (18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-).1) For CIN3 and SCC (CIN3+) patients (n=84), the distribution of cytology & hrHPV was investigated in each age group.2) For all patients (n=446), the frequencies of CIN3+ for each of 12 combinations were investigated in each age group.Results:1) In the 18-29 group, HSIL & 16/18+ accounted for as high as 54.5% of CIN3+. The proportion of HSIL & 16/18+ decreased markedly with increasing age, and there were no cases in the years 50- group. Instead, ASC-US & others+ gradually increased with age, up to 25%.2) In the 18-29 group, all patients in the HSIL & 16/18+ group were diagnosed as CIN3+. On the contrary, no patients in hrHPV- & HSIL were diagnosed as CIN3+.Such a clear distinction was not observed in any other age group.Conclusion:For CIN3+, the distribution patterns of cytology & hrHPV status combination significantly varied among the different age groups. Accordingly, the clinical impact of the combination of cytology findings & hrHPV status can vary among age groups.
LncRNA MILIP links YBX1 to translational activation of Snai1 and promotes metastasis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yanliang , Feng Yu Chen , Gan Yujin , Teng Liu , Wang Li , La Ting , Wang Peilin , Gu Yue , Yan Lei , Li Na , Zhang Lina , Wang Limeng , Thorne Rick F. , Zhang Xu Dong , Cao Huixia , Shao Feng-Min
Published: May 2022

Background: Distant metastasis is the major cause of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC)-associated mortality. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in ccRCC metastasis remain to be fully understood. With the increasing appreciation of the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cancer development, progression, and treatment resistance, the list of aberrantly expressed lncRNAs that contribute to ccRCC pathogenesis is also expanding rapidly.Methods: Bioinformatics analysis was carried out to interrogate publicly available ccRCC datasets. In situ hybridization and qRT-PCR assays were used to test lncRNA expression in human ccRCC tissues and cell lines, respectively. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were used to examine transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Wound healing as well as transwell migration and invasion assays were employed to monitor ccRCC cell motility and invasion in vitro. Mouse models of ccRCC metastasis was conducted to model metastasis in vivo. RNA pulldown and RNA immunoprecipitation were performed to test RNA-protein associations, and domain-specific chromatin isolation by RNA purification was used to test the RNA-RNA interaction. SiRNA and shRNA were conducted to knockdown gene expression. Results: MILIP expression was upregulated in metastatic compared with primary ccRCC cells. The increased MILIP expression in metastatic ccRCC cells is driven by transcriptional activation mediated by the transcription factor AP-2 gamma (TFAP2C). Knockdown of MILIP diminished the potential of ccRCC cell migration and invasion and reduced formation of metastatic lesions in vivo. This was associated with reductions in the expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) hallmark gene signatures. MILIP formed an RNA-RNA duplex with snail family transcriptional repressor 1(Snai1) mRNA and also bound to Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX1). This promoted the association of YBX1 and Snai1 leading to increased translation of Snai1 mRNA. Snai1 in turn played an important part in MILIP-mediated promotion of ccRCC metastasis. Conclusions: The TFAP2C-responsive lncRNA MILIP is upregulated in metastatic ccRCC and plays an important role in driving ccRCC cell metastasis. Thus, MILIP targeting is potentially a novel avenue for ccRCC treatment.
Prediction Model for Irreversible Intestinal Ischemia in Strangulated Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Kobayashi Toshimichi , Chiba Naokazu , Koganezawa Itsuki , Nakagawa Masashi , Yokozuka Kei , Ochiai Shigeto , Gunji Takahiro , Sano Toru , Tomita Koichi , Tabuchi Satoshi , Hidaka Eiji , Kawachi Shigeyuki
Published: May 2022

Background: Preoperatively diagnosing irreversible intestinal ischemia in patients with strangulated bowel obstruction is difficult. Therefore, this study aimed to establish a prediction model for irreversible intestinal ischemia in strangulated bowel obstruction.Methods: We included 83 patients who underwent emergency surgery for strangulated bowel obstruction between January 2014 and March 2022. The predictors of irreversible intestinal ischemia in strangulated bowel obstruction were identified using logistic regression analysis, and a prediction model for irreversible intestinal ischemia in strangulated bowel obstruction was established using the regression coefficients. Receiver operating characteristic analysis and 5-fold cross-validation was used to assess the model.Results: The prediction model (range, 0−4) was established using a white blood cell count of ≥ 12000/µL and the computed tomography value of peritoneal fluid that was ≥ 20 Hounsfield units. The areas of the receiver operating characteristic curve of the new prediction model were 0.814 and 0.807 after 5-fold cross-validation. A score of ≥ 2 was strongly suggestive of irreversible intestinal ischemia in strangulated bowel obstruction and necessitated bowel resection (odds ratio = 15.938). The bowel resection rates for the prediction scores of 0, 2, and 4 were 15.2%, 66.7%, and 85.0%, respectively.Conclusions: Our model may help predict irreversible intestinal ischemia that necessitates bowel resection for strangulated bowel obstruction cases and thus enable surgeons to recognize the severity of the situation and prepare for deterioration of patients with progression of intestinal ischemia.
Clinical observation of hypofibrinogen induced by the treatment of tocilizumab in rheumatic disease
Authors: An Qi , Yuan DaWei , Huang Jing , Ju BoMiao , Xu QianYun , Wang Jing , Luo Jing , Zhang Jing , Wang YanHua , Hu Nan , Pan Ying , Wang Pei , LV XiaoHong , Pu Dan , He Lan
Published: May 2022

Background: By analyzing the changes of fibrinogen levels in plasma during tocilizumab-treated patients with rheumatic diseases, and the aim was to clarify the incidence and possible influencing factors of hypofibrinogenemia.Methods: These tocilizumab-treated patients with rheumatic diseases in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi 'an Jiaotong University from January 2014 to October 2021 were included, to observe the reduced level of fibrinogen (FIB) in plasma at different time points in different diseases, explore the correlation between FIB and other acute phase proteins including Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and explore the risk factors for FIB reduction among RA patients treated with tocilizumab(TCZ) by COX regression.Results: A total of 94 tocilizumab-treated patients were included in this study. The median frequency of TCZ treatment was 6 (5-7) times, and 32 patients (34.0%) suffered FIB reduction during TCZ treatment. There were 8 males and 24 females in the FIB-reduced group, with a median age of 32 (25-51) years. Hypofibrinogen is most common in patients with Takayasu arteritis (TA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) treated with TCZ, with an incidence of 63.6% and 28.1%, respectively. In RA patients treated with TCZ, FIB at baseline was positively correlated with acute phase protein ESR (r=0.594, p<0.001), CRP (r=0.593, p<0.001), hsCRP (r=0.564, p<0.001) and C3 (r=0.462, p<0.05). There was a positive correlation between FIB and CRP after 3 months of TCZ treatment (r=0.811, p<0.05), and after 6 months of TCZ treatment (r=0.941, p<0.05). Further COX regression analysis did not find any factors associated with FIB reduction to reach statistical significance.Conclusion: The incidence of FIB reduction was high after TCZ treatment. FIB was correlated with acute phase proteins before and during treatment.
Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Feeding Jejunostomy as a long term solution for severe feeding problems in children
Authors: Braak H. , Gorter R. R. , Wijk M. P. , Jong J. R.
Published: May 2022

PurposeEnteral feeding is a common problem in children with gastric emptying disorders. Traditional feeding methods in these patients often show a high rate of complications and maintenance issues. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy (LRFJ) has been described in a few patients as a minimal invasive option for enteral access in these children. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of the LRFJ procedure in our tertiary referral center.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective case-series including all patients, aged 0-18 years old, that underwent a LFRJ procedure between August 2011 and December 2020 for the indication of oral feeding intolerance due to delayed gastric emptying. Outcomes evaluated were complications (short and long term) and parenteral satisfaction.ResultsIn total 12 children were identified that underwent LRFJ for the indication of oral feeding intolerance due to delayed gastric emptying. A total of 16 complications were noted in 8/12 patients (67%). Severity classified by Clavien-Dindo were grade I (n=13), grade II (n=1) and grade IIIB (n=2). In 11/12 patients, parents were satisfied with the results. ConclusionsAlthough minor complications after LRFJ are common in our patients, this technique is a safe solution in patients with gastric emptying disorders leading to a definitive method of enteral feeding and high parenteral satisfaction.
Spatiotemporal distribution of high-fluoride in groundwater and its health risk assessment in children in a new dental fluorosis field
Authors: Karabulut Benan Yazici , Derin Perihan , Yetis Ayşegul Demir , Yesilnacar Mehmet Irfan
Published: May 2022

This study focused on identifying drinking water sources of fluoride concentrations in arid and semi-arid areas of Sanliurfa province in southeastern Turkey. Fluorosis risk assessment and characterization were also studied. The fluoride levels of the study area were mapped using Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Water samples were collected and analyzed for each season from a total of fifty-three points. According to the results, many points had contaminated water sources. The average annual concentration levels in water resources in the study area were 0.26–3.62 mg/L. The results of spatial variation show that the Sarim and Karatas region has the highest concentration of fluoride distribution. The highest fluoride health risk in this region was observed in children, followed by teenagers and adults. Oral exposure rate was much higher than dermal exposure. In this region in particular, serious defects and staining have been detected in the teeth of school-age children with fourth- and fifth-degree fluorosis. Removing fluoride from drinking water with appropriate treatment methods such as electrocoagulation and adsorption will reduce the health risks associated with groundwater fluoride exposure.
Liquefaction Potential based on ground investigation data and natural frequency
Authors: Putra Rusnardi Rahmat , Kiyono Junji , Agung Darma
Published: May 2022

An earthquake can trigger other disasters. Liquefaction is one of them and it occurs due to the reduction or loss of effective stress in soil due to cyclic loads. Liquefaction may cause the ground to act as a flowing liquid and become harmful to the building above it. Damage to a building’s structure can occur because of the strong surface waves from soil thrust and flow. Thus, an evaluation of the liquefaction potential is needed to prevent building damage. This study aims to determine the vulnerability of Padang City to liquefaction disasters and proposes a liquefaction potential based on the natural frequency at the surface. The study was conducted by analysing soil investigation data (54 CPT and SPT), using earthquake acceleration to obtain the value of the safety factor (SF), and single microtremor observations, to determine the natural frequency of the soil at these points. The results show that the form of liquefaction potential in Padang City varies depending on the depth of the reviewed soil. At a depth of 1 m, almost the entire research area has liquefaction potential. The coastal area has a very high level of vulnerability. In general, the liquefaction potential decreases with increasing depth. The liquefaction potential and the natural frequency of the soil (f0) are related; soil with an f0 value of more than 0.432 Hz does not have a liquefaction potential.
Description and genome analysis of Actobacterium tashihtau gen. nov., sp. nov., a noval Denitrifying and Carbon-fixing bacterium isolated from marine sediment
Authors: Yu Zi-Liang , Jia Ya-Wei , Du Yi-Heng , Du Zong-Jun , Mu Da-Shuai
Published: May 2022

A Gram-stain-negative, non-motile, aerobic, red colony, mesophilic, and slightly halotolerant bacteria, designated strain D16T, was separated from intertidal surface sediments from Xiaoshi Island, Weihai, China. The strain was able to grow at 10-43°C, pH 5.5-9.5 and in 0-5 % (w/v) NaCl. Optimum growth conditions of the strain were at pH 7.0, 30-33 °C and 1 % (w/v) NaCl. The predominant respiratory quinone, major fatty acids and polar lipids of the strain were (MK-6), (C15:0 iso, 32.0 %, C16:0, 10.5 %) and (DPG、PE、AGL、 GL、 AL、PGS), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and genomes indicated that strain D16T was the closest to genera Eudoraea, Poritiphilus, Muriicola, Robiginitalea and Zeaxanthinibacter, sharing 92-93 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with the representative of these genera. The draft genome of strain D16T composed 3,225,638 bp, and the G+C content was 42.8 mol %. The ANI, dDDH, AAI values of strain D16T compared to similar genera ranged from 67.3 to 70.2 %, 16.2 to 19.1 % and 68.3 to 70.1 %, respectively, below the threshold for recommended species division of ANI 95–96%, dDDH 70% and AAI 95%. Furthermore, POCP values between strain D16T and similar genera were less than 50.0%, consistent with the description of a new genus. Based on the results of phylogenetic, phenotypic, genotypic, chemotaxonomic analyses and comparative analysis of metabolic pathway, environmental distribution and characterization between in strain D16T and other relative genera of family Flavobacteriaceae, it is concluded that strain D16T represents a novel species of a noval genus of the family Flavobacteriaceae, for which the name Actobacterium tashihtau gen.nov., sp. is proposed. The type strain is D16T (=MCCC 1H00463T= KCTC 82746T).
Multiple and multiliteracies: dilemmas in New Zealand secondary science classrooms
Authors: Shahzadi Nosheen
Published: May 2022

Changes in literacy theory and practices in relation to technological change necessitate shifts in contemporary pedagogical practices. In the New Zealand context, little is known about literacy in terms of multiliteracies pedagogical practices in secondary science classrooms. This study aims to unearth the realities of dilemmas operating in literacy contexts. It is argued that evidence for successful enactment of multiliteracies are scarce. More research work and scholarly debates are needed to clarify and align mismatches between theory and practice. Pedagogical moves as hybrid literacies are suggested carrying potential for students in becoming multi-literate.
The Civilization Exchanges Between an-cient China and ancient Egypt Before 2100 Years
Authors: Hu Pan
Published: May 2022

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Determination of Microsporidia Infection in Larvae and Adult Anopheles Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Minwuyelet Awoke , Aschale Yibeltal , Atnafu Getnet
Published: May 2022

Background: Microsporidia are a diverse group of obligate intracellular, spore forming parasites that infect all phyla of invertebrates. Microsporidia are known to infect a wide variety of animals including mosquitoes. A few studies showed that microsporidia infection of mosquitoes is associated with larval mortality or reduced adult fecundity and lifespan. The aim of this study is to determine microsporidia infection in field collected Anopheles larvae and reared adults.Methods: Anopheles larvae were collected from the field and analyzed from February to April 2022. The 4th stage larvae, after determining the species identity, they were dissected to extract their midgut while the early stage larvae were transported to entomological laboratory for reareing the adult in the insectary room. Similarly, after determining the species identity they were dissected to extract their midgut. Then two thin smears for each dissected larvae and/ adult were made. Fixed preparations were stained with Giemsa and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques to detect the microsporidia. Descriptive statistics and independent t-test were used to analyze the data.Results: Anopheles gambiae complex was identified as the most predominant species from field collected larvae and insectary reared adults. From the total 258 larvae and 258 adult An.gambiae complexes tissue smears examined, microsporidia were detected in 2.7% [7/258, (95%, CI: 0.8-5)] and 1.2% [3/258, (95%, CI: 0.01-2.7)] of larvae and adult respectively. The mean density of microsporidia in larvae and adults were 64.9 (± 23.4 SD) and 36 (± 8.5SD) respectively. The difference of microsporidia density between infected larvae and adults was statistically significant (F=1.77, P= 0.02). Conclusion: Significant level of microsporidia infection was detected using light microscopy. Further microsporidia identification down to the genus and species level needs to determine its ultrastructure characteristics and the comparative analysis of small subunit rRNA sequence data.
Public Health Communication: Consistency, Accuracy, and Community Engagement during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lowe Maya , Harmon Shawn , Kholina Ksenia , Parker Rachel , Graham Janice
Published: May 2022

Objectives
Communication is central to the implementation and efficacy of public health measures. This paper explores public health messaging in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic, assessing its potential to encourage or undermine public trust and adherence.
Methods
This study analyzed data from two primary sources. The first is government press briefings, associated press releases, and public health directives from January 2020 to October 2021 in Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Alberta. The second data source is 34 semi-structured key-informant interviews with public health actors across Canada. A directed qualitative content analysis approach was employed to analyze press briefing transcripts. Team-based coding and thematic analysis were conducted to analyze interview transcripts.
Results
Three main themes emerged from the data: inconsistency, lack of clarity, and need for engaged communication practice. Ambiguous and inconsistent language practices across and within jurisdictions were common. Clear language that combines scientific evidence with an appeal to social and emotional factors was lacking, specifically in relation to nuanced matters. Communication practices revealed a disconnect between local communities and jurisdictional communicators who often lacked sensitivity and understanding of local concerns and values.
Conclusion
Effective communication must be consistent, clear, and community-driven. Increased federal leadership surrounding public health communication, further jurisdictional collaboration, improved communication training, established engagement infrastructure, and increased diversity of decision-makers and communicators are suggested to improve the effectiveness of communication practices by instilling public trust and thus adherence with public health measures.
Can D&O insurance improve corporate ESG performance?
Authors: Zhao Jing , Xu Hanyou
Published: May 2022

D&O insurance has gained mature practice in developed countries. However, as of November 2021, no more than 15% of listed companies in China have purchased D&O insurance. Combining China’s unique institutional culture and economic background, we examine the impact of D&O insurance on corporate ESG performance. The results show that D&O insurance significantly improves corporate ESG performance. Meanwhile, this positive relationship is affected by economic policy uncertainty and industry competition. Additional analysis suggests that the contribution of D&O insurance to ESG performance is achieved by improving independent director function-performing effectiveness and increasing corporate risk-taking. The findings of this paper have policy implications for a better understanding of the governance role of D&O insurance, encouraging companies to improve corporate ESG performance.
JIPipe: Visual batch processing for ImageJ
Authors: Figge Marc , Gerst Ruman , Cseresnyes Zoltan
Published: May 2022

The continuous development of new microscopy techniques requires the parallel evolution of image analysis workflows. ImageJ provides a high level of accessibility to bioimage processing, which is still impeded by the necessity of developing scripts to achieve reproducibility, and to comply to the FAIR principles. We provide a visual language termed JIPipe that allows the construction of an ImageJ workflow purely by designing a flowchart. We already included over 1000 functions from ImageJ and its plugins. In return, ImageJ is extended with custom-designed algorithms, thus forming a symbiotic relationship with JIPipe. Our software includes a fully reproduceable and standardized project format, zero-cost scalability of pipelines, as well as automated data saving into an open format. JIPipe was already utilized to solve numerous demanding image analysis tasks, showcasing its wide applicability and adaptability. JIPipe contributes towards making bioimage analysis more accessible, thereby fostering collaborations between experimentalists and computer scientists.
The implications of telecommuting on work-life balance: Effects on work engagement and work exhaustion
Authors: Bhat Zahid Hussain , Yousuf Uqba , Saba Nuzhat
Published: May 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has forced many workers to telecommute, and the public sector is no exception to it. Working from home has resulted in a work overload in personal places. This has eroded the line between personal and professional life, increasing the risk of conflict. The impact of remote working on the balance between life and work is unknown. This article reviews the existing research on work-life balance. It further examines the impact of remote work and telecommuting on work-life balance. The study found that work-life interaction and workplace factors influence employee engagement and exhaustion. Work-related expectations, such as emotional and time demands, must be addressed to decrease work-family conflict and create a good work-life balance. Human resource managers in the sector should develop work-life balance policies and practices. This review adds to the body of knowledge by establishing the importance of work-family conflict and work-life balance for remote employees. This review produced two scholarly contributions to work-life balance. Beginning with an overview of existing research topics and organized work-life balance concepts, second, it identified crucial study areas to understand distant work-life balance better. Implications for practice and future research directions are discussed as well.
Machine learning to improve waste management
Authors: Gao Bei , Dai Yunmeng , Bao Qin , Shang Yueqi , Han Feier , Yan Haiwen , Lu Shiyi , Guo Luofujie , Niu Ruidong , Zhou Yifan , Jia Yuen , Yin Jun
Published: May 2022

While recycling facilities have been significantly upgraded in China, but the effectiveness of these facilities in improving waste management needs to be evaluated. Here, we conducted a nationwide survey by directly taking photographs of the inside of individual waste containers over 11 cities across China. We found that waste from recycling and non-recycling containers generally comprised similar materials. The corresponding waste features extracted by machine learning models tend to be well-mixed but clearly separated after removing the misplaced items, demonstrating an objective means for quantifying the accuracy of waste-sorting process. We therefore proposed the nationwide scale-up of this automated machine learning system, which along with additional incentive programs for better waste-sorting behaviors, may help improve waste management.
Apes in Lab Coats: Scientific Exploratory Play Behaviour in Homo sapiens
Authors: Lendrem Dennis
Published: May 2022

This study records observations of scientists attempting to solve a standard experimental problem - DNA amplification through the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) - in a ‘virtual’ laboratory. One striking observation is that scientists employ search strategies not dissimilar to the foraging strategies of apes and other animals. While such search strategies may be appropriate when exploring two- or three-dimensional environments, they are highly unsuited to exploring the complex multi-dimensional spaces representing many scientific and technical challenges. The evolution of exploratory behaviour in Homo sapiens may represent a major obstacle to the uptake of better tools. The wider adoption of mathematical and statistical tools designed for exploring such spaces may be constrained by our evolutionary biology.