bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asynchronous embryonic germ cell development leads to a heterogeneity of postnatal ovarian follicle activation and may influence the timing of puberty onset in mice
Authors: Dai Yanli , Bo Yingnan , Wang Peike , Xu Xueqiang , Singh Meenakshi , Jia Longzhong , Zhang Shuo , Niu Shudong , Cheng Kaixin , Liang Jing , Mu Lu , Geng Kaiying , Xia Guoliang , Wang Chao , Zhang Yan , Zhang Hua
Published: May 2022

Background

Ovarian follicles, which are the basic units of female reproduction, are composed of oocytes and surrounding somatic (pre) granulosa cells (GCs). A recent study revealed that signaling in somatic preGCs controlled the activation (initial recruitment) of follicles in the adult ovaries, but it is also known that there are two waves of follicle with age-related heterogeneity in their developmental dynamics in mammals. Although this heterogeneity was proposed to be crucial for female reproduction, our understanding of how it arises and its significance is still elusive.

Results

In the current study, by deleting the key secreted factor KIT ligand from preGCs and analyzing the follicle cell developmental dynamics, we revealed distinct patterns of activation and growth associated with the two waves of follicles in mouse ovary. Our results confirmed that activation of adult wave follicles is initiated by somatic preGCs and dependent on the KIT ligand. By contrast, activation of first wave follicles, which are awakened from germ cells before follicle formation, can occur in the absence of preGC-secreted KIT ligand in postnatal ovaries and appears to be oocyte-initiated. We also found that the asynchronous activity of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinases (PI3K) signaling and meiotic process in embryonic germ cells lead to the follicle heterogeneity in postnatal ovaries. In addition, we supplied evidence that the time sequence of embryonic germ cell development and its related first wave follicle growth are correlated to the time of puberty onset in females.

Conclusion

Taken together, our study provides evidence that asynchronous development of embryonic oocytes leads to the heterogeneity of postnatal ovarian follicle activation and development, and affects the timing of onset of puberty in females.
Weight gain attempts and diet modification efforts among adults in five countries: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ganson Kyle T. , Nagata Jason M. , Vanderlee Lana , Rodgers Rachel F. , Lavender Jason M. , Hazzard Vivienne M. , Murray Stuart B. , Cunningham Mitchell , Hammond David
Published: May 2022

Background

Recent research has emphasized a growing trend of weight gain attempts, particularly among adolescents and boys and young men. Little research has investigated these efforts among adults, as well as the specific diet modifications individuals who are trying to gain weight engage in. Therefore, the aims of this study were to characterize the diet modification efforts used by adults across five countries who reported engaging in weight gain attempts and to determine the associations between weight gain attempts and concerted diet modification efforts.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from the 2018 and 2019 International Food Policy Study, including participants from Australia, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States (N = 42,108), were analyzed. In reference to the past 12 months, participants reported on weight gain attempts and diet modification efforts related to increased consumption of calories, protein, fiber, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, all meats, red meat only, fats, sugar/added sugar, salt/sodium, and processed foods. Unadjusted (chi-square tests) and adjusted (modified Poisson regressions) analyses were conducted to examine associations between weight gain attempts and diet modification efforts.

Results

Weight gain attempts were significantly associated with higher likelihood of each of the 12 forms of diet modification efforts among male participants, and 10 of the diet modification efforts among female participants. Notably, this included higher likelihood of efforts to consume more calories (males: adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 3.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.94–3.59; females: aPR 4.05, 95% CI 3.50–4.70) and fats (males: aPR 2.71, 95% CI 2.42–3.03; females: aPR 3.03, 95% CI 2.58–3.55).

Conclusions

Overall, the patterns of association between weight gain attempts and diet modification efforts may be indicative of the phenomenon of muscularity-oriented eating behaviors. Findings further highlight the types of foods and nutrients adults from five countries may try to consume in attempts to gain weight.
Association between serum 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and homocysteine in Chinese hypertensive participants with different MTHFR C677T polymorphisms: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cheng Yu , Liu Shuai , Chen Duo , Yang Yiman , Liang Qiongyue , Huo Ya , Zhou Ziyi , Zhang Nan , Wang Zhuo , Liu Lishun , Song Yun , Liu Xiangyi , Duan Yong , Liang Xiuwen , Hou Bingjie , Wang Binyan , Tang Genfu , Qin Xianhui , Yan Fangrong
Published: May 2022

Background and aims

Clarifying the association between 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and homocysteine and the effect pattern of methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR C677T) may contribute to the management of homocysteine and may serve as a significant reference for a randomized controlled trial of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate intervention. This study aimed to reveal the association between these two biochemical indices.

Methods

Study population was drawn from the baseline data of the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT), including 2328 hypertensive participants. 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and homocysteine were determined by stable-isotope dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and automatic clinical analyzers, respectively. MTHFR C677T polymorphisms were detected using TaqMan assay. Multiple linear regression was performed to evaluate the association between serum 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and homocysteine.

Results

There was a significant inverse association between 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and homocysteine when 5-methyltetrahydrofolate was ≤ 10 ng/mL, and this association was modified by MTHFR C677T (per 1-ng/mL increment; All:β= − 0.50,P <  0.001; CC:β= − 0.14,P = 0.087; CT:β= − 0.20,P = 0.011; TT:β= − 1.19,P <  0.001). Moreover, the decline in trend in genotype TT participants was stronger than in genotype CC participants (Pfor difference <  0.001) and genotype CT participants (Pfor difference <  0.001), while there was no significant difference between genotype CC and genotype CT participants (Pfor difference = 0.757).

Conclusions

Our data showed a non-linear association between serum homocysteine and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate among Chinese hypertensive adults, however, it could be inversely linearly fitted when serum 5-methyltetrahydrofolate was ≤ 10 ng/mL, and this association was modified by MTHFR C677T.
Identification of a novel lipid metabolism-related gene signature within the tumour immune microenvironment for breast cancer
Authors: Chang Xu , Xing Peng
Published: May 2022

Background

Systemic factors can strongly affect how tumour cells behave, grow, and communicate with other cells in breast cancer. Lipid metabolic reprogramming is a systemic process that tumour cells undergo; however, the formation and dynamics of lipids associated with the tumour immune microenvironment (TIME) remain unclear. The investigation of the sophisticated bidirectional crosstalk of tumour cells with cancer metabolism, gene expression, and TIME could have the potential to identify novel biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and immunotherapy. This study aimed to construct a prognostic signature to detect the bicrosstalk between the lipid metabolic system and the TIME of breast cancer.

Methods

To detect the expression of LRGs and execute GO/KEGG analysis, the R program was chosen. Considering the clinical information and pathological features, a prognostic gene signature was constructed by LASSO Cox regression analysis. TMB, MSI, and immune infiltration analyses were performed, and consensus cluster analysis of LRGs was also performed.

Results

These 16 lipid metabolism-related genes (LRGs) were mainly involved in the process of lipid metabolism and fatty acid binding in breast cancer. Prognosis analysis identified the prognostic value of FABP7(Fatty acid binding protein 7) and NDUFAB1(NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit AB1) in breast cancer patients. The prognostic gene signature constructed with FABP7 and NDUFAB1 was significantly related to immune cell infiltration and could predict the overall survival rate with above average correctness of breast cancer patients. FABP7 and NDUFAB1 were proven to have relevance in immune cell infiltration and tumour mutation burden (TMB). Consensus cluster analysis identified that the upregulated mRNAs were mostly related to the oncogenesis process, while the downregulated mRNAs were associated with immune-related signalling pathways.

Conclusion

A comprehensive analysis was performed to evaluate the lipid metabolic system and identified a signature constructed by two prognostic genes for immunotherapies in breast cancer. The results also revealed evidence of vulnerabilities in the interplay between the lipid metabolic system and the TIME in breast cancer. Further data with clinical studies and experiments are warranted.
Understanding Vietnam’s drug policy for amphetamine-type stimulants misuse
Authors: Tran Mai Thi Ngoc , Dunne Michael P. , Minh Le Giang , Han Hoe Dinh , Nguyen Trang Thu , Luong Hai Thanh , Luong Quang Hung , Pham Ha Nguyen , Baker Philip
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The emergence of widespread amphetamine-type stimulants (ATSs) usage has created significant challenges for drug control and treatment policies in Southeast Asian countries. This study analyses the development of drug policies and examines current treatment program constraints in Vietnam to deal with ATS misuse. The aim was to gain insights that may be useful for national and international drug-related policy development and revision.

Methods

A desk review of national policy documents and 22 in-depth key informant interviews were conducted from 2019 to 2021. Thematic content analysis was employed to identify key themes and their connections.

Results

Analysis identified Vietnam’s 30-year history of developing policies and formulating strategies to reduce supply, demand, and harm from illicit drugs. With the increasing number of people who use ATS (PWUA), Vietnam has recently promoted harsh policy and law enforcement to deter drug use and supply. This policy trend prevails in many Asian countries. The three main constraints in dealing with ATS misuse emerged from punitive and restrictive drug policies. First, the general public believed that Centre-based compulsory treatment (CCT) is the only appropriate treatment for all types of illicit drug addiction despite its low-quality service provision. The rigid drug policy has led to social persuasion with impractical expectations for CCT effectiveness. Second, the emphasis on punishment and detention has hampered new drug treatment service development in Vietnam. CCT has become monopolistic in the context of impoverished services. Third, people who use drugs tend to hide their needs and avoid formal treatment and support services, resulting in declined social coherence.

Conclusion

While new drugs are constantly evolving, the current law enforcement approach potentially constrains expertise to adopt effective treatment services. This study suggests that the top-down policing mechanism presently hinders the development of an appropriate intervention strategy for ATS misuse and diminishes social support to service providers.
Machine learning for the prediction of acute kidney injury in patients with sepsis
Authors: Yue Suru , Li Shasha , Huang Xueying , Liu Jie , Hou Xuefei , Zhao Yumei , Niu Dongdong , Wang Yufeng , Tan Wenkai , Wu Jiayuan
Published: May 2022

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the most common and serious complication of sepsis, accompanied by high mortality and disease burden. The early prediction of AKI is critical for timely intervention and ultimately improves prognosis. This study aims to establish and validate predictive models based on novel machine learning (ML) algorithms for AKI in critically ill patients with sepsis.

Methods

Data of patients with sepsis were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC- III) database. Feature selection was performed using a Boruta algorithm. ML algorithms such as logistic regression (LR),k-nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), decision tree, random forest, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and artificial neural network (ANN) were applied for model construction by utilizing tenfold cross-validation. The performances of these models were assessed in terms of discrimination, calibration, and clinical application. Moreover, the discrimination of ML-based models was compared with those of Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and the customized Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II model.

Results

A total of 3176 critically ill patients with sepsis were included for analysis, of which 2397 cases (75.5%) developed AKI during hospitalization. A total of 36 variables were selected for model construction. The models of LR, KNN, SVM, decision tree, random forest, ANN, XGBoost, SOFA and SAPS II score were established and obtained area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.7365, 0.6637, 0.7353, 0.7492, 0.7787, 0.7547, 0.821, 0.6457 and 0.7015, respectively. The XGBoost model had the best predictive performance in terms of discrimination, calibration, and clinical application among all models.

Conclusion

The ML models can be reliable tools for predicting AKI in septic patients. The XGBoost model has the best predictive performance, which can be used to assist clinicians in identifying high-risk patients and implementing early interventions to reduce mortality.
Causal relationship between physical activity, leisure sedentary behaviors and COVID-19 risk: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Xiong , Hong Xiaosi , Gao Wenjing , Luo Shulu , Cai Jiahao , Liu Guochang , Huang Yinong
Published: May 2022

Background

The 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19) poses an enormous threat to public health worldwide, and the ensuing management of social isolation has greatly decreased opportunities for physical activity (PA) and increased opportunities for leisure sedentary behaviors (LSB). Given that both PA and LSB have been established as major influencing factors for obesity, diabetes and cardiometabolic syndrome, whether PA/LSB in turn affects the susceptibility to COVID-19 by disrupting metabolic homeostasis remains to be explored. In this study, we aimed to systematically evaluate the causal relationship between PA/LSB and COVID-19 susceptibility, hospitalization and severity using a Mendelian randomization study.

Methods

Data were obtained from a large-scale PA dataset (N = 377,000), LSB dataset (N = 422,218) and COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative (N = 2,586,691). The causal effects were estimated with inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger, weighted median and MR-PRESSO. Sensitivity analyses were implemented with Cochran’s Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO, leave-one-out analysis and the funnel plot. Risk factor analyses were further conducted to investigate the potential mediators.

Results

Genetically predicted accelerometer-assessed PA decreased the risk for COVID-19 hospitalization (OR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.88–0.97; P = 0.002), while leisure television watching significantly increased the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization (OR = 1.55, 95% CI 1.29–1.88; P = 4.68 × 10–6) and disease severity (OR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.33–2.56; P = 0.0002) after Bonferroni correction. No causal effects of self-reported moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), accelerometer fraction of accelerations > 425 milligravities, computer use or driving on COVID-19 progression were observed. Risk factor analyses indicated that the above causal associations might be mediated by several metabolic risk factors, including smoking, high body mass index, elevated serum triglyceride levels, insulin resistance and the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

Our findings supported a causal effect of accelerometer-assessed PA on the reduced risk of COVID-19 hospitalization as well as television watching on the increased risk of COVID-19 hospitalization and severity, which was potentially mediated by smoking, obesity and type 2 diabetes-related phenotypes. Particular attention should be given to reducing leisure sedentary behaviors and encouraging proper exercise during isolation and quarantine for COVID-19.
The role of endothelin and RAS/ERK signaling in immunopathogenesis-related fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis: an updated review with therapeutic implications
Authors: Rokni Mohsen , Sadeghi Shaker Mina , Kavosi Hoda , Shokoofi Shahrzad , Mahmoudi Mahdi , Farhadi Elham
Published: May 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a disease of connective tissue with high rate of morbidity and mortality highlighted by extreme fibrosis affecting various organs such as the dermis, lungs, and heart. Until now, there is no specific cure for the fibrosis occurred in SSc disease. The SSc pathogenesis is yet unknown, but transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and Ras-ERK1/2 cascade are the main factors contributing to the tissue fibrosis through extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Several studies have hallmarked the association of ET-1 with or without TGF-β and Ras-ERK1/2 signaling in the development of SSc disease, vasculopathy, and fibrosis of the dermis, lungs, and several organs. Accordingly, different clinical and experimental studies have indicated the potential therapeutic role of ET-1 and Ras antagonists in these situations in SSc. In addition, ET-1 and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) as a cofactor of the TGF-β cascade play a substantial initiative role in inducing fibrosis. Once initiated, TGF-β alone or in combination with ET-1 and CTGF can activate several kinase proteins such as the Ras-ERK1/2 pathway that serve as the fundamental factor for developing fibrosis. Furthermore, Salirasib is a synthetic small molecule that is able to inhibit all Ras forms. Therefore, it can be used as a potent therapeutic factor for fibrotic disorders. So, this review discusses the role of TGF-β/ET-1/Ras signaling and their involvement in SSc pathogenesis, particularly in its fibrotic situation.
Gaucher disease carrier with gestational thrombocytopenia and anemia: a case report
Authors: Sugiura Takako , Fujiwara Arisa , Yo Takasugi , Kashinoura Kana , Hayase Chihiro , Taura Yumiko , Kawarabayashi Yasuhiro , Hasuo Yasuyuki , Ogawa Shinji
Published: May 2022

Background

Gaucher disease is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism that causes disorders of blood, bone, and central nervous system as well as hepatosplenomegaly. We present the case of a carrier of Gaucher disease with gestational thrombocytopenia and anemia that required blood transfusion therapy.

Case presentation

A 24-year-old Nepalese primipara was diagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenia at 12 weeks of gestation. Her platelet count had reduced to 30,000/µL at 21 weeks of gestation, and the hemoglobin content reduced to 7.6 g/dL at 27 weeks of gestation. As she did not respond to any medication, blood transfusion was performed. A female infant weighing 2677 g was delivered vaginally at 39 weeks of gestation. On the 78th day of puerperium, the platelet count of the mother recovered to 101,000/µL, and the hemoglobin content recovered to 12.5 g/dL. The infant had convulsions, respiratory depression, wheezing, systemic purpura, and exfoliation of the epidermis at birth. The infant was diagnosed with Gaucher disease at 37 days of age and passed away at 82 days of age. Subsequently, the parents were diagnosed as carriers of Gaucher disease.

Conclusion

As carriers of this disease do not usually show symptoms, it is imperative to provide information regarding disease management for future pregnancies.
Unilateral uterine artery embolization and Bakri tamponade balloon insertion in the treatment of acute puerperal uterine inversion: a case report
Authors: Isono Wataru , Tsuchiya Akira , Okamura Asuka , Honda Michiko , Saito Ako , Tsuchiya Hiroko , Matsuyama Reiko , Fujimoto Akihisa , Nishii Osamu
Published: May 2022

Background

Acute puerperal uterine inversion is rare but may cause massive postpartum blood loss due to uterine atony. Therefore, these patients must be diagnosed, and uterine replacement must be performed as soon as possible. However, in some cases, active bleeding due to uterine atony becomes uncontrollable, even though the uterine inversion itself is treated. In these cases, additional treatments, including surgical procedures, are needed.

Case presentation

A 41-year-old Japanese woman, gravida 1, para 0, was hospitalized for labor induction at 40 weeks and 3 days of gestational age. She had a vacuum-assisted delivery after 3 days of oxytocin administration, but acute uterine inversion occurred. Although replacement of the inverted uterus was successful by manual repositioning and Bakri balloon tamponade insertion, massive postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony became uncontrollable. In this situation, since disseminated intravascular coagulation had developed, we used uterine artery embolization to stop the bleeding. After detecting the pseudo-aneurysmal sac and tortuous vessels of the right uterine artery, transcatheter right-sided uterine artery embolization was performed. Thirteen days after uterine artery embolization, she was discharged with no complications.

Conclusions

In cases of disseminated intravascular coagulation caused by massive postpartum bleeding, uterine artery embolization may often be selected. In our case, since we performed angiography to detect the main bleeding site, the hemorrhage could be stopped with unilateral uterine artery embolization alone, without hysterectomy.
Burden of five healthcare associated infections in Australia
Authors: Lydeamore M. J. , Mitchell B. G. , Bucknall T. , Cheng A. C. , Russo P. L. , Stewardson A. J.
Published: May 2022

Background

Healthcare associated infections are of significant burden in Australia and globally. Previous estimates in Australia have relied on single-site studies, or combinations thereof, which have suggested the burden of these infections is high in Australia. Here, we estimate the burden of five healthcare associated infections (HAIs) in Australian public hospitals using a standard international framework, and compare these estimates to those observed in Europe.

Methods

We used data from an Australian point prevalence survey to estimate the burden of HAIs amongst adults in Australian public hospitals using an incidence-based approach, introduced by the ECDC Burden of Communicable Diseases in Europe.

Results

We estimate that 170,574 HAIs occur in adults admitted to public hospitals in Australia annually, resulting in 7583 deaths. Hospital acquired pneumonia is the most frequent HAI, followed by surgical site infections, and urinary tract infections. We find that blood stream infections contribute a small percentage of HAIs, but contribute the highest number of deaths (3207), more than twice that of the second largest, while pneumonia has the higher impact on years lived with disability.

Conclusion

This study is the first time the national burden of HAIs has been estimated for Australia from point prevalence data collected using validated surveillance definitions. Per-capita, estimates are similar to that observed in Europe, but with significantly higher occurrences of bloodstream infections and healthcare-associated pneumonia, primarily amongst women. Overall, the estimated burden is high and highlights the need for continued investment in HAI prevention.
The health benefits of selenium in food animals: a review
Authors: Pecoraro Brittany M. , Leal Diego F. , Frias-De-Diego Alba , Browning Matthew , Odle Jack , Crisci Elisa
Published: May 2022

Selenium is an essential trace mineral important for the maintenance of homeostasis in animals and humans. It evinces a strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and potential antimicrobial capacity. Selenium biological function is primarily achieved by its presence in selenoproteins as a form of selenocysteine. Selenium deficiency may result in an array of health disorders, affecting many organs and systems; to prevent this, dietary supplementation, mainly in the forms of organic (i.e., selenomethionine and selenocysteine) inorganic (i.e., selenate and selenite) sources is used. In pigs as well as other food animals, dietary selenium supplementation has been used for improving growth performance, immune function, and meat quality. A substantial body of knowledge demonstrates that dietary selenium supplementation is positively associated with overall animal health especially due to its immunomodulatory activity and protection from oxidative damage. Selenium also possesses potential antiviral activity and this is achieved by protecting immune cells against oxidative damage and decreasing viral replication. In this review we endeavor to combine established and novel knowledge on the beneficial effects of dietary selenium supplementation, its antioxidant and immunomodulatory actions, and the putative antimicrobial effect thereof. Furthermore, our review demonstrates the gaps in knowledge pertaining to the use of selenium as an antiviral, underscoring the need for further in vivo and in vitro studies, particularly in pigs.

Graphical abstract
Vector control in China, from malaria endemic to elimination and challenges ahead
Authors: Feng Xinyu , Feng Jun , Zhang Li , Tu Hong , Xia Zhigui
Published: May 2022

Background

Vector control is an important approach to preventing and controlling malaria. From the malaria epidemic to malaria elimination in China, vector control has played an essential and irreplaceable role in the historical process. This review systematically summarizes the evolution, adjustment, and optimization of vector control strategy towards elimination and discusses the challenges ahead.

Main text

This review first summarizes the evolution of vector control strategies during different stages of malaria epidemic, control, elimination, and post-elimination in China. We then distill the vector control experience and lessons in different stages. We discuss the current and future challenges and propose future research directions and developments for novel malaria vector control strategies.

Results

Vector control has played an invaluable role in achieving malaria elimination. China adopted different prevention and control measures in response to the different malaria-endemic situations and vector distributions. Firstly, baseline surveys were initiated to establish the entomological data and helped clarify the prevention priorities and targets. Secondly, targeted and adjusted vector control strategies were conducted in various regions according to the local epidemic characteristics and different vector species. Thirdly, scientific research facilitated efficient vector-control strategies. In addition, the overall economic and social development have promoted environmental improvement, personal protection, and health care. Prediction of the vector distribution was integrated into risk assessment strategies, allowing for sustaining achievements in risk areas.

Conclusions

The tailored and adapted vector control strategies have played a critical role in China’s malaria prevention, control, and elimination. Achievements and lessons learned on vector control from this progress would provide a practical reference in coping with the challenges and potential barriers other countries face in the global effort to eliminate malaria.
Influence of student’s ability to delay gratification on their educational transition choice
Authors: Ganie Gowhar Rashid
Published: May 2022

Objective

A considerable amount of research identified socio-economic status and cognitive ability as robust predictors, the influence of student’s ability to delay gratification (ADG) on their educational transition choice doesn’t received researcher’s attention. To address this gap, the present study examined the incremental power of students ADG in predicting the dichotomous choice i.e. the choice of general or vocational education after successful completion of compulsory schooling.

Methods

Amid Covid-19 pandemic, cross sectional survey via an online mode was found feasible for the data collection process in our study. An online link of survey questionnaire was created in the Google forms and administered to (N = 1024) grade 8 students in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, India. Multiple binary logistic regressions were conducted to predict the students’ choice, and odds ratios and average marginal effects were reported for better interpretation of results.

Results

Our results showed that students tracking choice differed significantly with respect to their gender and locale (smaller effect), ADG (medium effect), and cognitive ability and socio-economic status (larger effect). The probability of choosing the track of vocational education (with general education track as a baseline category) increases as students ADG decreases, and vice versa. This association of student’s ADG with the choice of vocational education track held same over and above the covariates—socio-economic status, cognitive ability, gender and locale.
An environmentally safe and tolerant microbial insecticide utilizing Helicoverpa armigera single nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV-TR)
Authors: Eroglu Gozde Busra , Demırbag Zihni
Published: May 2022

Background

Baculoviruses are significant biocontrol agents of pests in agriculture; however, ultraviolet light B (UV-B) and high temperature inactivate them in the environment within a short time.

Results

In this study, formulations of Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus Turkey isolate (HearNPV-TR) were prepared. Crude virus, the oil-based formulations of the virus, and a commercial H. armigera NPV product were exposed to UV-B light and various temperatures (28, 35, and 42 °C) at different periods (0, 1, 3, 5 h.). While the UV-B application decreased the virulence of crude virus up to 32% after 5 h. exposure, it decreased the virulence of oil-based formulation by (15%). Similarly, the virulence of the crude virus by 70% at 42 °C, while was reduced by 10% in the formulations at the same temperature. Therefore, 5% oil formulation was enough to keep the virulence of the virus underexposed to UV-B and high temperatures. LC95 values were calculated as 1 × 108 OBs/ml−1 in concentration–response tests, and mortality rates were 90 and 92% in pot assays for commercial product and 5% oil formulation, respectively.

Conclusions

The results showed that 5% oil formulation of HearNPV-TR was an important biocontrol preparation to protect virus virulence under suppressive environmental conditions.
A type III effectiveness-implementation hybrid evaluation of a multicomponent patient navigation strategy for advanced-stage Kaposi’s sarcoma: protocol
Authors: Collier Sigrid , Semeere Aggrey , Byakwaga Helen , Laker-Oketta Miriam , Chemtai Linda , Wagner Anjuli D. , Bassett Ingrid V. , Wools-Kaloustian Kara , Maurer Toby , Martin Jeffrey , Kiprono Samson , Freeman Esther E.
Published: May 2022

Background

For people with advanced-stage Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS), a common HIV-associated malignancy in sub-Saharan Africa, mortality is estimated to be 45% within 2 years after KS diagnosis, despite increasingly wide-spread availability of antiretroviral therapy and chemotherapy. For advanced-stage KS, chemotherapy in addition to antiretroviral therapy improves outcomes and saves lives, but currently, only ~50% of people with KS in western Kenya who have an indication for chemotherapy actually receive it. This protocol describes the evaluation of a multicomponent patient navigation strategy that addresses common barriers to service penetration of and fidelity to evidence-based chemotherapy among people with advanced-stage KS in Kenya.

Methods

This is a hybrid type III effectiveness-implementation study using a non-randomized, pre- post-design nested within a longitudinal cohort. We will compare the delivery of evidence-based chemotherapy for advanced-stage KS during the period before (2016–2020) to the period after (2021–2024), the rollout of a multicomponent patient navigation strategy. The multicomponent patient navigation strategy was developed in a systematic process to address key determinants of service penetration of and fidelity to chemotherapy in western Kenya and includes (1) physical navigation and care coordination, (2) video-based education, (3) travel stipend, (4) health insurance enrollment assistance, (5) health insurance stipend, and (6) peer mentorship. We will compare the pre-navigation period to the post-navigation period to assess the impact of this multicomponent patient navigation strategy on (1) implementation outcomes: service penetration (chemotherapy initiation) and fidelity (chemotherapy completion) and (2) service and client outcomes: timeliness of cancer care, mortality, quality of life, stigma, and social support. We will also describe the implementation process and the determinants of implementation success for the multicomponent patient navigation strategy.

Discussion

This study addresses an urgent need for effective implementation strategies to improve the initiation and completion of evidence-based chemotherapy in advanced-stage KS. By using a clearly specified, theory-based implementation strategy and validated frameworks, this study will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how to improve cancer treatment in advanced-stage KS.
Synthesis, characterization and antibiotic evaluation of some novel (E)-3-(4-diphenylamino)phenyl)-1-(4′-fluorophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one chalcones and their analogues
Authors: Tukur AbdulRazaq , Habila James Dama , Ayo Rachael Gbekele-Oluwa , Iyun Ogunkemi Risikat Agbeke
Published: May 2022

Background

The increase in resistance of pathogenic organisms to the available chemotherapeutic agents are critical challenges in drug design and development, motivating researchers to look for novel compounds that can combat multidrug-resistant organisms. Recently, chalcones have been proved to be attractive moieties in drug discovery.

Results

Eight novel triphenylamine chalcones with different substitution patterns were successfully synthesized via the conventional Claisen–Schmidt condensation reaction in an alkaline medium at room temperature, and recrystallized using ethanol, the percentage yield of the compounds were between 30 and 92%. The structures of the synthesized chalcones were successfully characterized and confirmed using FT-IR, NMR spectroscopic and GC–MS spectrometric techniques.

Conclusions

The results of the biological studies showed that all the synthesized chalcones possess remarkable activities against the tested microbes, by showing a significant zone of inhibitions relative to that of the standard drugs used. The investigation revealed that 1b showed highest ZOI (30 mm), lowest MIC (12.5 µg/ml) and MBC/MFC (50 µg/ml) on Aspergillus niger. Therefore, displayed better antifungal potential as compared to the rest of the compounds, and can be a potential antifungal drug candidate.
Knowledge of Egyptian faculty members about voice care: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Mahmoud Nesreen Fathi , Khaled Dina Mohamed Fouad , Mohammed Hassnaa Othman
Published: May 2022

Background

The university teaching faculty members are one of the occupational fields in education that are more exposed to voice disorders. The current study aimed to examine the association among vocal symptoms reported by faculty teaching professionals, impact of voice problems on daily activities, their vocal habits, and knowledge on vocal hygiene in relation to specialist consultation and to identify which of the assessed factors triggered the most for medical consultation. An online questionnaire was completed by 420 faculty teaching professionals from 7 universities in Egypt between November 2019 and December 2019.

Results

All assessed vocal symptoms were significantly associated with specialist consultation (p-value <0.01). Most common bad vocal habits included increased voice loudness (71.2%), talking for long time (69.3%), and frequent throat clearance (54.0%). The most commonly reported preventive measures included avoid screaming (88.3%), stop smoking (87.1%), and taking periods of voice rest (86.4%). The strongest predictor of having specialist consultation was frequent throat clearance, recording an odds ratio of 23.809.

Conclusion

Based on information obtained from the current study, ideas are suggested for setting up vocal hygiene programs throughout a professional voice career for keeping a healthy voice. Avoid passive smoking and using microphones are considered remarkable adequate methods for healthy voice.
Electro-Fenton treatment process for brewery wastewater: effects of oxidant concentration and reaction time on BOD and COD removal efficiency
Authors: Afolabi Oluwatosin A. , Adekalu Kenneth O. , Okunade David A.
Published: May 2022

The brewing process consumes and releases a large amount of wastewater into the environment. The objective of this study was to determine optimum operating conditions for the treatment of brewery wastewater using the Electro-Fenton (EF) process. The EF process has been applied to a wide variety of pollutants due to its ability to remove complex and recalcitrant water contaminants. Brewery wastewater contains large amounts of biodegradable and non-biodegradable compounds which are suitable for the EF process. The effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration and reaction time (RT) on the biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand of the EF process was investigated. The brewery wastewater with an initial BOD and COD of 423.76 mg/l and 854.86 mg/l respectively was subjected to changing H2O2 concentrations of 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 mg/l and reaction times of 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min. Other conditions such as ferric-sulfate catalyst concentration, voltage, electrode spacing, and pH were maintained constant. The BOD and COD showed considerable changes after applying the EF process. Removal efficiencies for BOD and COD were significant (p < 0.05), up to 96.91% (423.76–13.04 mg/l) and up to 93.16% (854.86–58.5 mg/l), respectively. Results further showed increasing concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and reaction time favored BOD and COD removal. The efficiency was analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and graphical plot. The optimum BOD and COD removal of 88.96% (46.79 mg/l) and 93.16% (58.51 mg/l) was observed at 2000 mg/l hydrogen peroxide and 120 min reaction time. Optimized experimental conditions and performance have been discussed in the literature. The analysis of the treated wastewater shows that there is a significant reduction of BOD and COD compared with the raw wastewater. Therefore, it is suggested that the EF process be applied in the treatment of brewery wastewater for removing BOD, COD, and some other complex pollutants. The treated water can be reused or safely disposed into the environment.
Semisupervised fuzzy clustering for facies analysis using extended elastic impedance seismic attributes
Authors: Mirzakhanian Marzieh , Hashemi Hosein
Published: May 2022

A novel method in seismic facies analysis is proposed to resolve the discrepancy between well and seismic facies concepts. Extended elastic impedance (EEI) attributes are ideally suited for facies analysis because they are representative of different elastic parameters of rocks. A semisupervised method aims to accept or reject seismic clustering based on the well facies interpretation. First, specific EEI logs/attributes are calculated after a feasibility study and EEI analysis of the well data set are used for facies analysis. Using EEI logs as input attributes prevents data deficiency as a result of upscaling of well-log data to the seismic scale in the learning process. Then, the seismic EEI attributes are calculated from prestack seismic data and used for seismic facies analysis considering a fuzzy clustering algorithm with parameters estimated from the well facies analysis stage. The fuzzy clustering methods using membership degrees in their algorithms are valuable tools to reduce uncertainties. To evaluate the method’s performance, 3D seismic data of an oil sand reservoir were selected as a case study. The comparison with previous crossplot methods in facies modeling confirmed the advantages of the presented results in seismic facies analysis. The seismic facies sections are sufficiently interpretable according to the geologic setting and correlate more with the well facies codes.
Approximation of P-, S1-, and S2-wave reflection coefficients for orthorhombic media
Authors: Zhang Ze , Lu Jun , Zhang Xueying , Wang Yun
Published: May 2022

Orthorhombic (ORT) media are commonly used in the descriptions of subsurface strata during the exploration and exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs. In anisotropic media, seismic waves propagating in ORT media usually occur as quasi-P, quasi-S1, and quasi-S2 waves. Approximating the phase velocities and reflection coefficients of these waves is of great significance for predicting the properties of unconventional reservoirs, such as their elastic parameters, fracture azimuths, and fracture densities. At the incidence angles of P waves, we have developed formulas to approximate the reflection coefficients of quasi-P, quasi-S1, and quasi-S2 waves based on their first-order phase velocities and polarization vectors. Under weak anisotropy and weak impedance contrast assumptions, in the [ X, Z] and [ Y, Z] symmetry planes, our approximations basically match Rüger’s approximations at small-to-moderate incidence angles. Numerical analyses verify that our approximations are accurate at all azimuth angles under high impedance contrast and strong anisotropy. Two important innovations are provided in our manuscript. First, the errors in the proposed reflection coefficients only lie in the first-order phase velocities and polarization vectors. Second, we use lower-upper factorization to decompose matrix-dependent reflection coefficients into multiple simple nested formulas, which can be used to calculate the reflection coefficients without matrix operations.
Bayesian amplitude variation with angle and azimuth inversion for direct estimates of a new brittleness indicator and fracture density
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Guangzhi , Pan Xinpeng , Zhang Jinmiao , Zhu Zhenyu , Li Chao , Lin Zhengliang
Published: May 2022

Estimates of natural fractures or fracture-prone brittleness sweet spots are of great importance for the seismic characterization of fracability and successful commercial production of a shale play. Young’s modulus is commonly considered as a measure of brittleness. However, Young’s modulus may be unsuitable to characterize the brittleness of the organic-rich shale gas reservoirs because it exhibits an inverse relationship to porosity, total organic carbon, and gas saturation. The [Formula: see text] attribute (the ratio of Young’s modulus E to the first Lamé constant [Formula: see text]) is more sensitive than the commonly used Young’s modulus to the organic-rich shale gas reservoirs, making it a sensitive brittleness indicator. We have proposed a novel inversion technique of amplitude variation with angle and azimuth (AVAZ) for direct estimates of the new brittleness indicator [Formula: see text] and fracture density in shale gas reservoirs. Considering a horizontally transverse isotropic model formed by a system of rotationally invariant vertical fractures embedded in an isotropic background, we first derive a linearized PP-wave reflection coefficient as a function of Young’s modulus, new brittleness indicator, density, and fracture density. The new linearized approximation allows us to estimate the brittleness and fracture properties of the reservoir in a more direct manner. Next, we present a Bayesian AVAZ inversion incorporating Cauchy-sparse and smoothing-model constraint regularization to directly estimate these model parameters from azimuthal seismic data. Finally, we apply the proposed inversion approach to a synthetic example and a real data set of a shale gas reservoir from the southern Sichuan Basin to illustrate its potential in the seismic characterization of brittleness and natural fractures.
Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases: ASCO Guideline Endorsement of ASTRO Guideline
Authors: Schiff David , Messersmith Hans , Brastianos Priscilla K. , Brown Paul D. , Burri Stuart , Dunn Ian F. , Gaspar Laurie E. , Gondi Vinai , Jordan Justin T. , Maues Julia , Mohile Nimish , Redjal Navid , Stevens Glen H.J. , Sulman Erik P. , van den Bent Martin , Wallace H. James , Zadeh Gelareh , Vogelbaum Michael A.
Published: May 2022

PURPOSE

American Society of Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has developed a guideline on appropriate radiation therapy for brain metastases. ASCO has a policy and set of procedures for endorsing clinical practice guidelines that have been developed by other professional organizations.

METHODS

“Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases: An ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline” 2 was reviewed for developmental rigor by methodologists. An ASCO Endorsement Panel subsequently reviewed the content and the recommendations.

RESULTS

The ASCO Endorsement Panel determined that the recommendations from the ASTRO guideline, published May 6, 2022, are clear, thorough, and based upon the most relevant scientific evidence. ASCO endorses “Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases: An ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline.” 2

RECOMMENDATIONS

Within the guideline, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is recommended for patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-2 and up to four intact brain metastases, and conditionally recommended for patients with up to 10 intact brain metastases. The guideline provides detailed dosing and fractionation recommendations on the basis of the size of the metastases. For patients with resected brain metastases, radiation therapy (SRS or whole-brain radiation therapy [WBRT]) is recommended to improve intracranial disease control; if there are limited additional brain metastases, SRS is recommended over WBRT. For patients with favorable prognosis and brain metastases ineligible for surgery and/or SRS, WBRT is recommended with hippocampal avoidance where possible and the addition of memantine is recommended. For patients with brain metastases, limiting the single-fraction V12Gy to brain tissue to ≤ 10 cm3 is conditionally recommended. Additional information is available at www.asco.org/neurooncology-guidelines .