bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DERECHO Y POLÍTICA EN LA POSMODERNIDAD: EL LIBERALISMO INTERNACIONALISTA
Authors:   Universidad Libre, Jiménez William Guillermo , Meneses Quintana Orlando , Ramírez Arenas Oduber Alexis
Published: October 2023

The most popular stream in international relations studies is associated with political realism as such emphasizes competition between States always seeking an advantageous position, whose description shows that such a rivalry can be ruthless. However, internationalist Liberalism explores alternatively the association tactics that help States to position themselves strategically on the international stage by seeking allies with those who share common interests. The promotion of cooperation agencies enables the study of the growing influence of actors other than national States, and recognizes the relative independence of the international environment with its own and distinct logic, although associated with the traditional logic of national interest and security. The paper aim is to explore the positions that John Rawls, Norberto Bobbio and Luigi Ferrajoli put forward. The method is qualitative, using documentary analysis techniques on secondary sources. It is concluded that the agreements and institutions arising from international liberalism restrict the action of States, seeking limitation to armed conflicts, the protection of human rights and the conditions for a more distributive global justice.
MEMORIA HISTÓRICA Y LEY DE VÍCTIMAS Y RESTITUCIÓN DE TIERRAS ¿PROLONGACIÓN DE UN INCUMPLIMIENTO?
Authors:   Universidad Libre, Torregrosa Jiménez Norhy , Barón Ramírez Yaqueline , Triviño Lozano Juan Camilo , Torregrosa Jiménez Rodolfo
Published: October 2023

Law 1448 of 2011, known as the Victims and Land Restitution Law, embodied the Colombian State’s interest in rebuilding the social fabric fractured as a result of violence and the inability of the national government. With compensation and land restitution, the law paved the way for making reparations to the victims of a conflict that not only violated rights, but also ended many lives and cut short many dreams. The 10-year term of the law, starting from the year of its enactment, determined a period in which, in theory, a lasting peace process would take place and reparations would be made to all victims to date. Therefore, considering the implications of the usefulness of the extension of Law 1448 of 2011 with respect to land restitution will make it possible to identify the state of compliance with the spirit of the law in terms of the satisfaction of the rights of the country’s ethnic and peasant communities that were and continue to be scourged by the scourge of violence.
The issue of biocompatibility of ceramic implants in the provision of orthopedic care.
Authors:   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health, Ulyanov Yu.A. , Zaripova E. M. ,   Kazan (Volga region) Federal University, Mingazova E. N. ,   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health,   Kazan State Medical University
Published: October 2023

When organizing orthopedic care, specialists should be aware of scientific data regarding the ability of the zirconia implant system used to osseointegrate. The biocompatibility of implants depends on various parameters such as the nature of the material, chemical composition, surface topography, chemical composition and loading, surface treatment, physical and mechanical properties. Zirconium has a high biocompatibility with soft tissues, resistance to bacterial biofilms. Zirconia implants are a promising alternative to titanium, especially for titanium allergic patients.
Cutaneous Sarcoidosis in Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Release Scars
Authors: Meyer Andrea M. , Macdonald Collin , Fornadley Jeffrey M. , Taylor Kenneth F.
Published: October 2023

Case:

A 58-year-old woman with a history of systemic sarcoidosis, 2 years in remission, presented 6 years after bilateral carpal tunnel release with a 3-month history of nodularity, erythema, and tenderness to her bilateral incisions. Histopathology demonstrated noncaseating granulomas without evidence of foreign material or organisms, consistent with infiltrative scar sarcoidosis. Treatment included 4 intralesional corticosteroid injections over 5 months, with progressive resolution of symptoms and no evidence of systemic sarcoidosis reoccurrence.

Conclusion:

Sarcoidosis should be considered when presented with a cutaneous lesion in association with an incisional scar, either as primary presentation or as disease recurrence.
Rapid algae flotation techniques
Authors: Cender Clinton , Thomas Catherine , Page Martin , Sartain Bradley , Fernando Brianna , Ibrahim Musa , Wahl Alec
Published: October 2023

Dissolved air flotation (DAF) is an effective technique for algae separation following the application of flocculants and coagulants. Some harmful algae produce mucilage or extracellular polymeric substances useful for flotation. This study evaluated natural polysaccharides to determine effects on algal flotation with DAF. Food-grade gums (xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, gellan gum, and diutan gum) were tested with cyanobacteria cultures singly and in combination with commercial flocculants (including Tramfloc 222 and Tramfloc 300). Gum arabic alone had no effect when evaluated at concentrations between 10 mg/L and 5,000 mg/L. However, the combination of gum arabic and Tramfloc 300 yielded higher algal flocculation than Tramfloc 300 alone. The combination of xanthan gum (anionic) and guar gum (cationic) did not perform at the level of the combined xanthan gum and Tramfloc 222 in either flocculation or flotation of algae. Tramfloc 222 and xanthan gum; however, yielded effective flocculation seemingly resistant to changes in interfering factors such as turbulence, pH, and temperature. Furthermore, the combination of xanthan gum and Tramfloc 222 provided the most effective flotation and flocculation independent of pH effects. The results suggest that anionic polysaccharides can be used to increase the efficacy of cationic coagulants such as Tramfloc 222.
José María Gil Adobe : historic context, maintenance issues, measured drawings, and adaptive reuse
Authors: Fuelberth August , Feinen Karlee , Stynoski Peter , Gamez Joseph , Young Allison , Baxter Carey , McCoy Madelyn , Murphey Joseph , Story Madison , Smith Adam
Published: October 2023

The José María Gil Adobe, located on Fort Hunter Liggett, California, was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1974. The building has been vacant since the early 1970s. It is a fine example of a small adobe ranch house possessing character-defining features of its period of significance of the mid-19th century on its exterior, interior, and within the site itself. This document is a reconstruction, repair, maintenance, and adaptive reuse report compiled with photographed, written, and drawn as-is conditions of construction materials of the José María Gil Adobe building and site. The building was 3D scanned to obtain the necessary information for the measured drawings. The secretary of the interior’s guidelines on rehabilitation and repair per material are discussed to provide the cultural resources manager at Fort Hunter Liggett a guide to maintain this historic building. Rehabilitation is the best option for the successful reuse of the José María Gil Adobe as it will move the building from a vacant status to an occupied status. It is highly likely that this building can again serve an appropriate use as outlined in Section 11, reflecting its appearance in the early 20th century or WWII periods.
Serum cytokines in the mediation roles on the relationship between nutritional support and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants
Authors: jiang jingjing , zhang zhenjie , wan weilin , li zhenghong , li yunwei
Published: October 2023

Objectives
To verify whether nutritional support is associated with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) by mediating serum cytokines.
Methods
We recorded in a retrospective cohort study the intake of enteral nutrition (EN) and parenteral nutrition (PN) in the first week, serum cytokines on Day 2–7 and Day 14–28 by examining the nutritional and clinical history of 34 newborns born at gestational age ≤ 32 weeks admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit from January 2018 to October 2019.
Results
Non-BPD group (24 infants) had a significantly higher gestational age and higher birth weight than the BPD group (14 infants). Among the infants with non-BPD, total proteins, total energy and EN carbohydrates, EN proteins, EN lipids, and EN energy in the first week intake and IL-4, IL-6, IL-8 on Day 14–28 and FiO2 on Day 28 were significantly lower, and IL-10 on Day 2–7 and IL-13 on Day 14–28 was significantly higher. Pearson correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between total protein, total energy and EN proteins, EN carbohydrates, EN lipids, and EN energy in the first week with IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 on Day 14–28. In mediation analyses, total protein, EN proteins, EN carbohydrates, EN lipid, EN energy, total energy in the first week were related to FiO2 on day 28 partly mediated by IL-6 and IL-8 on Day 14–28.
Conclusions
Our results showed that inefficient nutrition, especially EN nutrition intake in the first week of life were associated with BPD by mediating proinflammatory cytokines on Day 14–28.
“Telemedicine has certainly changed the way we work: We do more phone consultations now.”
Authors: Stummer Florian O , Mayrhofer Mira , Szabo Nathallie , Hoffmann Kathryn
Published: October 2023

Background
Teleconsultation has gained increased attention in primary care as a means to deliver healthcare services remotely. This qualitative study explores the perceptions and challenges of healthcare providers regarding the implementation and use of teleconsultation in their practice.
Method
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs working in different organizational primary care forms, to gain insights into their experiences with teleconsultation. The interviews focused on the perceived benefits, limitations, and barriers associated with teleconsultation, as well as the expectations for its future role in healthcare.
Results
The most noteworthy finding is that GPs overwhelmingly refer to telephone consultations when talking about remote consultations or telemedicine. When it comes to the experiences regarding these remote consultations, GPs identified the challenges associated with managing patient behavior and massively increased workload as most important. Only after inquiry, video consultation was mentioned as mean of remote consultation. Regarding video-consultation technological issues, such as outdated software and the need for user-friendly platforms, were hindering factors. Concerns regarding patient privacy and data protection emerged as important considerations in the use of teleconsultation. Moreover, the lack of institutional support and infrastructure for telemedicine implementation was a recurring theme, emphasizing the need for investments and resources.
Conclusion
It is of great importance to know that GPs mainly mean telephone consultations when talking about remote consultations. This is in contrary to literature, where video consultations or consultations through specific apps or messenger services were meant with remote consultations. Against this background, it becomes clear where GPs need to be picked up in communication. Furthermore, GPs identified various challenges and limitations associated with the implementation of remote consultations which should be tackled immediately if the topic should evolve in Austria. These findings provide valuable insights for healthcare organizations and policymakers aiming to enhance telemedicine implementation in primary care settings.
Heterostigmatic mites (Acari: Prostigmata) associated with mushroom-forming fungi (Basidiomycota: Agaricomycetes), with description of a new microdispid mite (Microdispidae)
Authors: MAJIDI SAFOORA , Rahiminejad Vahid , RAZAVI ESMAEEL , NADIMI AHMAD
Published: October 2023

A new species of Heterostigmatic mites from the family Microdispidae, Premicrodispus (Premicrodispus) abani Rahiminejad & Majidi sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on female individuals recovered from macro-fungi, Trichaptum sp. (Fungi: Polyporales), in forestry areas of Gorgan, northern Iran. Additionally, distributional records of four pygmephoroid species belonging to Pediculaster Vitzthum, 1931, MetapygmephorellusRahiminejad, Hajiqanbar & Khaustov, 2015, and Krczaldania Sasa, 1961 are reported from various mushrooms over the sampling region. All the fungi, including Trichaptumsp. (Polyporales), Psathyrellasp., and Pleurotus sp. (Fungi: Agaricales), are recorded for the first time as host of Heterostigmata. Moreover, Pediculaster sklarii Sevastianov & Chydyrov, 1994 and P. amerahae Sevastianov & Abo-korah, 1984,are recorded for the first time in the arthropod fauna of Iran. Eventually, an overview of heterostigmatic mites associated with macro-fungi, as well as their host range and location, has been provided.
Combination Activity of Standard Antituberculosis Drugs and Extracts of Medicinal Plants Commonly Used in Traditional Treatment of Tuberculosis in Uganda
Authors: Mpeirwe Moses , Komakech Kevin , Ssesazi Duncan , Ogwang Patrick Engeu , Bazira Joel
Published: October 2023

Background
Despite the increasing acceptance of medicinal plant use in combination with conventional antituberculosis drugs in treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in Uganda, there is paucity of knowledge on their combination effect. This research aimed to find combination activity of standard antituberculosis drugs with extracts of Zanthoxylum leprieurii and Rubia cordifolia, the two common antituberculosis medicinal plants, against pansensitive (H37Rv) and multi-drug resistant (MDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Methods
Two reference MTB strains (H37Rv and MDR strain) were inoculated on Middlebrook 7H11 medium containing a combination of standard anti-TB drugs and methanol extracts of Z. leprieurii and R. cordifolia at varying concentrations. The number of colonies on the plates were observed and counted weekly for up to 8 weeks. In vitro combination activity was determined using proportion method. Mean percentage inhibition was calculated for the reduction of number of colonies on drug-extract combination medium in relation to drug-extract-free control medium.
Results
Drug-extract combinations showed good combination effect against Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains when compared with individual standard anti-TB drugs. This was more evident with MDR strain. There was however a reduction in percentage inhibition when extracts were combined with ethambutol and streptomycin against H37Rv strain.
Conclusions
Therefore, use of medicinal plants in combination with conventional antituberculosis drugs in TB treatment should be done with caution especially with susceptible cases.
Structural Variation Detection and Association Analysis of Whole-Genome-Sequence Data from 16,905 Alzheimer’s Diseases Sequencing Project Subjects
Authors: Lee Wan-Ping , Wang Hui , Dombroski Beth , Cheng Po-Liang , Tucci Albert , Si Ya-qin , Farrell John , Tzeng Jung-Ying , Leung Yuk Yee , Malamon John , Wang Li-San , Vardarajan Badri , Farrer Lindsay , Schellenberg Gerard , Project The Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project The Alzheimer’s D
Published: October 2023

Structural variations (SVs) are important contributors to the genetics of human diseases. However, their role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains largely unstudied due to challenges in accurately detecting SVs. We analyzed whole-genome sequencing data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project (N = 16,905) and identified 400,234 (168,223 high-quality) SVs. Laboratory validation yielded a sensitivity of 82% (85% for high-quality). We found a significant burden of deletions and duplications in AD cases, particularly for singletons and homozygous events. On AD genes, we observed the ultra-rare SVs associated with the disease, including protein-altering SVs in ABCA7, APP, PLCG2, and SORL1. Twenty-one SVs are in linkage disequilibrium (LD) with known AD-risk variants, exemplified by a 5k deletion in complete LD with rs143080277 in NCK2. We also identified 16 SVs associated with AD and 13 SVs linked to AD-related pathological/cognitive endophenotypes. This study highlights the pivotal role of SVs in shaping our understanding of AD genetics.
Receipt of prescription opioid medication is associated with increased mortality in an Israeli population – a cohort study.
Authors: Cohen Matan J , Dressler Reuven L , Kaliner Ehud
Published: October 2023

Background - Despite Israel’s increased use of prescription opioids, reported deaths resulting or associated with opioids have decreased, in fact dramatically, since 2005. This contrast is unique and difficult to explain. Methods – A historical cohort analysis of Clalit Health Services (CHS) data including all adult patients prescribed opiates between 2010 and 2020, excluding patients with oncologic diagnoses. Patients were classified into three groups according to opioid use: below 50 Morphine milligram equivalents (MME) per day, 50 to 90 MME per day, and above 90 MME per day. Sex, Charlson comorbidity score, age and socioeconomic status were recorded. Mortality rates were compared between the dosage groups and additionally, age-standardized mortality rates were compare the general population mortality rates. Results - On multivariate analysis, patients receiving 90 or more MME per day were 2.4 (95%CI 2.1 to 2.7) more likely to have died compared to patients receiving below 50 MME per day. The respective hazard ratio among patients receiving between 50 and 90 MME per day was 2.2 (2.0 to 2.5). Among patients aged 18 to 50, standardized mortality ratios compared to the general population ranged between 5.4 (5.3–6.6) to 8.6 (7.8–9.7) among women, receiving between 50 and 90 MME per day, and between 8.1 (7.3–9.2) and 10.6 (9.5–12.1) among women receiving 90 or more MME per day. The respective SMRs among men were 1.2 (1.1–1.3) to 3.8 (3.5–4.2) and 2.7 (2.4-3.0) to 5.4 (4.9–5.9). Conclusion – We demonstrate that increased opioid use is associated with increased mortality among non-oncological patients, while controlling for co-morbidities. We have shown this among young adults with little or no known comorbidities. These findings are consistent with results in other countries and seem more credible than previous Israeli reports.
Correlation between Temporomandibular Joints and Craniocervical Posture in Patients with Bilateral Anterial Disc Displacement
Authors: Xiang Wanfang , Wang Min , Li Zhihui , Cai Mingqin , Pan Xiaojing
Published: October 2023

Objective To study the changes of temporomandibular joint and craniocervical posture in adult patients with bilateral anterior disc displacement, and to explore their correlation, which may provide some clinical value for clinical diagnosis and treatment planning.
Methods Ninety-eight adult patients were divided into 3 groups: 29 patients in control group, 33 patients in bilateral Anterior Disc Displacement With Reduction group and 36 patients in bilateral Anterior Disc Displacement Without Reduction group. Dolphin and Uceph software were used to measure 14 items of temporomandibular joint and 11 items of craniocervical posture for comparison and correlation analysis between groups.
Results There were significant differences in bilateral joint space between the anterior disc displacement group. Compared with the control group, the anteroposterior diameter of the condyle was significantly reduced, the condyle was significantly displaced posteriorly and superiorly, but the joint fossa width and joint fossa depth did not change significantly. Cervical curvature and inclination were greater in patients with anterior disc displacement than controls, indicating that the craniocervical posture of adult patients with anterior disc displacement was extended and protrusive.
Conclusion Anterior displacement of articular disc can displace the condyle upwards and posteriorly and reduce the diameter of condyle, and then make the condyle closer to the wall of articular fossa to induce joint symptoms. Anterior disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint can significantly affect craniocervical postural position, which may be related to compensate for the effects of airway space.
Association of Operative Time with SSI in elderly patients with colon cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Fan Aqiang , Hong Liu
Published: October 2023

Objective A significant correlation between surgery time and surgical site infection (SSI) occurrence has been found. We collected clinical information from 1542 patients aged 60 years and older who underwent radical resection for colon cancer at the Department of Gastroenterology, Xijing Hospital.
Methods In this study, clinical information of 1542 elderly colon cancer patients who met the nadir criteria was retrospectively collected for univariate and multifactorial analyses through the Electronic Medical Record. A smoothed curve between operative time and SSI was fitted using the generalized summation model (GAM). The curve was segmented by the trend of the curve to clarify the possible threshold effect of surgery time.
Results We found a significant positive correlation between operative time and SSI after 132 min after adjusting for other confounding factors. The correlation between the two was not compelling at less than 132 min. There was a significant threshold effect between operative time and the occurrence of SSI (Log-likelihood ratio test P=0.024).
Conclusions Our study shows that in elderly patients undergoing radical colon cancer, the operative time exceeding 132 min will significantly increase the odds of developing SSI.
Essential mycobacterial gene glmM as an immunotherapeutic target against tuberculosis
Authors: Nandicoori Vinay , Agarwal Meetu , Dwivedi Ved Prakash , Bhaskar Ashima , Singha Biplab , Singh Archana , Agarwal Nisheeth , Chaturvedi Shivam
Published: October 2023

The limitations of TB treatment are the long duration and immune-dampening effects of anti-tuberculosis therapy. The cell wall of mycobacteria helps in its survival, pathogenicity, and virulence and provides resistance against different antibiotics. Hence, cell wall biosynthesis pathways and the enzymes involved are crucial and, thus, are good therapeutic targets. Here, we identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) GlmM, (GlmMMtb) involved in the UDP-GlcNAc synthesis pathway as an essential enzyme. Using the CRISPR interference-mediated gene silencing approach, we generated a conditional knockdown strain, Rv-glmMkD. Depletion of GlmMMtb affects the morphology and thickness of the cell wall. The Rv-glmMkD strain attenuated Mtb survival in vitro, in the host macrophages (ex vivo), and in a murine mice infection model (in vivo). Results suggest that the depletion of GlmMMtb induces M1 macrophage polarization, prompting a pro-inflammatory cytokine response, apparent from the upregulation of activation markers, including IFNɣ and IL-17 that resists the growth of Mtb. Collectively, these observations provide a rationale for exploring GlmMMtb as a potential therapeutic target.
Multivariate fragility functions according to failure modes for lightly reinforced concrete columns
Authors: Koo Su Hyun , Han Sang Whan
Published: October 2023

Fragility functions are used to estimate the probability of experiencing or exceeding a given specific damage state for a given engineering demand parameter (EDP) value. Fragility estimation is a key component of performance-based earthquake engineering. The aim of this study is to develop multivariate fragility functions for lightly reinforced concrete columns according to column failure mode. Four different damage states are considered. For this purpose, a procedure classifying column failure mode was developed. In addition, empirical equations computing the central and dispersion values of the EDP (drift ratio in the present study) associated with individual damage states are proposed based on a database containing the test data of 193 lightly reinforced concrete columns. The fragility curves of the columns can be accurately obtained using the procedure developed by the present study.
LDAR, new tool for reduction of fugitive VOC emissions in a petrochemical complex of Pars Special Economic Energy Zone, Iran
Authors: Saatloo Seyed Jafar Esmat , Jozi Seyed Ali , Monavari Seyed Masoud
Published: October 2023

Fugitive volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from the chemical facility in the Energy zones constitute a complex issue in Iran. This research aims to identify and manage the release of volatile organic compounds from equipment in the petrochemical industry and in particular the olefin unit, which is one of the most important processes in the petrochemical industry. To recognize the emission points of the VOCs, process equipment was periodically visited by infrared technology(IR)using a leak detection camera. The Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR)program was conducted according to US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)protocols and method 21 of this protocol. The percentages of VOCs emission from process equipment such as heat exchangers, valves, compressors, pumps, and transmitters were 33%,25%,17%, 17%, and 8%, respectively. The total leakage and emission of VOCs from the studied olefin unit were calculated as 648 tons per year.
In addition to the VOCs emission, the concentration and distribution of nitrogen oxides were simulated by AERMOD software. According to the simulation, the annual mean concentration of this pollutant in the whole area of modeling is below the standard of the Iranian Environmental Protection Agency (40 μg/m3). Utilizing ArcGIS software (v.10.2), the IDW[1] interpolation method was used for zoning the emission of benzene and ethyl benzene pollutants in ambient air. Interpolation of annual mean pollutant concentrations showed that benzene concentration was higher than the environmental concentration at all unit levels, but it is lower than the standard permitted by the US National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.
Implementing a comprehensive Leak Detection and Repair program in the petrochemical industry on a larger scale can certainly help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment and the ozone layer.
[1] Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW)
Comparison of costs of four alternative ways of implementing a patient retention strategy in the Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) programme in Ebonyi State Nigeria.
Authors: Oni Timothy Foluso , Ogbonnaya Lawrence Ulu , Ossai Edmund Ndudi , Eze Irene Ifeyinwa , Akamike Ifeyinwa Chizoba , Ugochukwu Golibe Chiagozie , Salihu Idris , Olutola Ayodotun
Published: October 2023

Background:
Identifying cost-effective interventions for retention in care is important, especially with the growing need for country ownership of the HIV/AIDS response and for efficient allocation of health resources. The goal of this study was to assess the cost and cost-effectiveness ratio of four patient retention strategies in Ebonyi State ART programme.
Methods:
This was a cross-sectional comparative study. The sample size was 893 patients treated in 17 comprehensive HIV care facilities. The programme design for retention in care was enhanced patient contact through intensive HIV education at initiation of therapy, routine adherence counseling during scheduled 3-monthly clinic visits for stable patients, and phone calls and home visits for defaulting patients. The study assessed the cost of performing these tasks by either formal health care workers only (group A facilities), expert patients called Treatment Support Specialists (TSS) (Group B and C) or a combination of formal health worker and TSS (group D). Data on patient retention was extracted from patient treatment cards; Data on the retention activities in each facility and the cost of implementing them was extracted through programme document review, supplemented by data from semi-structured questionnaire interviews of programme managers and health facility project coordinators. The direct micro-costing method was used to estimate the unit cost of retention activity. Retention rates and cost effectiveness ratios were computed and compared.
Results:
The retention rates at the end of 12 months follow up were 79.5%, 92.1%, 95.2% and 97.1% respectively in the group A, B, C, and D facilities respectively. The total annual cost of the programme was ten million five hundred and eighty- two thousand Nigerian Naira (10, 582, 800.00 {$25,011.6}). The average cost per patient were 21443.75 (~ $68.40), 9309.82 ($29.7), 13,885.33 ($44.3), 14,863.64 ($47.4) in groups A-D respectively.
Conclusion:
The patient retention strategies in which treatment support specialist (TSS) performed the patient retention strategy tasks achieved a higher retention rates and cost-effectiveness ratios than that where only formal health care workers (FHCW) alone or in combination with the TSS performed the tasks. However, the cost of the retention activities was feasible.
A mobile device-based game prototype (Save the Muse Home) for ADHD: the development and feasibility test
Authors: He Fan , luo jie , li fenghua , wu yuanzhen , liu xuanang , zheng qingyi , qi yanjie , huang huanhuan , xu gaoyang , Liu Zhengkui , zheng yi
Published: October 2023

Objective:Our aim was to develop and evaluate the applicability of mobile device-based game therapy software for ADHD.
Methods: A total of 51 children with ADHD and 52 healthy children were recruited in the study. At baseline, participants underwent a series of tests including ADHD symptom-related scale assessments, computer-assisted information processing tests, and physiological-psychological tests. After completing a 4-week game intervention training at home, they repeated all tests from the baseline period and answered treatment satisfaction questions.
Results:At the completion of the 4-week intervention, the t-tests revealed that the ADHD group had significant score reductions on the Attention Deficit subscale (t = 2.833, p < .01) and Hyperactive Impulsivity subscale (t = 3.125, p < .05), and on the Continuous Performance Test (CPT), the Hit was significantly elevated (t = -7.624, p < 0.001) and the false alarm was significantly reduced (t = 5.575, p < 0.001). The biopsychological eye movement test showed significant improvements in inhibitory control and working memory functions. In contrast, the control group showed no significant changes in any of these areas before and after the intervention. In the questionnaire on children's and parents' attitudes toward games, children in both ADHD and control groups showed strong interest in the games, but ADHD children perceived games as more difficult compared to normal children. Meanwhile, parents in the ADHD group felt that the game training brought benefits to their children and were more willing to try it, while parents in the control group had relatively negative attitudes toward games.
Conclusion:This study’s findings support that serious video games (SMH) can help to enhance attentional ability as well as to relieve clinical symptoms in ADHD patients, and can be used as a supplement to current ADHD treatment modalities.
Fine-mapping identifies 27 allele-specific MPRA regulatory variants in Parkinson’s disease related loci
Authors: Farrow Sophie , Gokuladhas Sreemol , Schierding William , Pudjihartono Michael , Perry Jo , Cooper Antony , O'Sullivan Justin
Published: October 2023

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have identified a number of genomic loci that are associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD) risk. However, the majority of these variants lie in non-coding regions, and thus the mechanisms by which they influence disease development, and/or potential subtypes, remain largely elusive. To address this, we used a massively parallel reporter assay (MPRA) to screen the regulatory function of 5,254 variants that have a known or putative connection to PD. We identified 138 loci with enhancer activity, of which 27 exhibited allele-specific regulatory activity. The identified regulatory variant(s) typically did not match the original PD GWAS tag variant within the PD associated locus, supporting the need for deeper exploration of these loci. The existence of allele specific transcriptional impacts within cells, confirms that at least a subset of the PD associated regions mark functional gene regulatory elements. Future functional studies that confirm the putative targets of the empirically verified regulatory variants will be crucial for gaining a greater understanding of how gene regulatory network(s) modulate PD risk.
Self Efficacy, Parental Attitude, and Social Support as Determinant of Vocational Choice Among Adolescents With Hearing Impairment in Oyo State
Authors: Salvagain Okwara , Oyewole Diran , Dipeolu Oluwafemi
Published: October 2023

The study was set out to investigate the influence of self efficacy, parental attitude and social support on the vocational choice of adolescent with hearing impairment in Oyo State. It was discovered that adolescent with hearing impairment are having difficulties in the choice of chosen career that could best fit into their strengths. Consequently, it was discovered that both personal and environmental factors could serves as supports for an appropriate choice of career among the adolescent with hearing impairment in Ibadan north local government area of Oyo state, Nigeria.
The study adopted a descriptive survey design with a sample of forty-four respondents (44) participants which was randomly selected to examine the studied relationship among the variables; however, the variables in the study were validated instrument. Three research hypotheses and two research questions were answered. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC), and Multiple Regression Analytical methods.
The independent variables were self-efficacy, parental attitude and social support) to the prediction of vocational choice of adolescents with hearing impairment in Oyo state; F (3, 44) = (3, 44) = 395.256, P<0.001.The independent variables jointly account accounted for 84% (Adj.R2= .840) variance in the prediction of vocational choice of adolescents with hearing impairment in the studied area and the most potent predictor factor was parental attitude (Beta = .975, t=16.960, p<0.05) respectively was ranked first in its contribution to vocational choice of adolescents with hearing impairment in the study.
Based on the findings, it was concluded that the variables utilized for the study were efficiently predicted the sources and choices of career information made available to hearing impaired students also from their fellow colleagues and the mass media. It was recommendations were made based on the findings. Firstly, counsellors and special educators are advised to attend workshops, seminars that will help to broaden their skills and knowledge, especially in the area of handling clients with special needs. The government should provide the needed accessibility to school facilities for visually impaired students in senior secondary schools such as library, laboratories and so on. This is to enable them develop interest in the area of Sciences. Also, the curriculum planners should as a matter of urgency and necessity address the general science curriculum. With a view to making special adaptations that will soothe the educational needs of students with special needs at all levels of the Nigerian educational system. Areas such as teaching methodology, teaching aids and so on must be reviewed for special adaptations. This may go a long way in making visually impaired students to develop interest in vocational choice of careers development in their endeavours.
Characterization and identification of the powdery mildew resistance gene in wheat breeding line Jimai 809
Authors: Zhao Ya , Han Guohao , Qie Yanmin , Xiao Bei , Wang Jiaojiao , Qian Zejun , Huang Xiaomei , Liu Ruishan , Zhang Jiadong , Song Lihong , Jin Yuli , Ma Pengtao
Published: October 2023

Powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), is a severe disease that seriously affects the yield and quality of wheat. Using resistant cultivars in the production is the preferred strategy to control this disease. In the current study, the wheat breeding line Jimai 809 from Shandong Province of China showed high resistance to powdery mildew at the whole growth stage. To dissect the genetic basis for this resistance, Jimai 809 was crossed with the susceptible wheat cultivar Junda 159 to produce F1, F2 and F2:3 populations. Genetic analysis showed that a single dominant gene, temporarily named PmJM809, conferred the resistance to the Bgt isolate E09. Further molecular markers analysis showed that PmJM809 was located on chromosome 2BL and flanked by the markers CISSR02g-1 and CIT02g-13 with the genetic distances 0.4 and 0.8 cM, respectively, corresponding to a physical interval of 704.12-708.24 Mb referred to Chinese Spring reference genome sequence v1.1. PmJM809 differed from the Pm genes previously reported on chromosome arm 2BL in origin, resistance spectrum, physical position and genetic diversity of the interval, and hence was most likely a novel Pm gene or new allele of these reported Pm genes. To analyze and screen the candidate genes of PmJM809, six genes related to disease resistance in the candidate interval of PmJM809 were evaluated their expression pattern using an additional set of wheat samples and time-course analysis post-inoculation of Bgt isolate, and among them, three genes were locked as the key candidate genes. To efficiently transfer and track PmJM809 in different wheat genetic backgrounds, 13 of 19 closely linked/co-segregated markers were selected to be suitable for marker-assisted selection.
Comparison of HIIT and MICT and further detraining on metabolic syndrome and asprosin signaling pathway in metabolic syndrome model of rats
Authors: Rahim Hiwa Ahmed , Damirchi Arsalan , Babaei parvin
Published: October 2023

Physical activity promotes various metabolic benefits by balancing pro and anti-inflammatory adipokines. Recent studies suggest that asprosin might be involved in progression of metabolic syndrome (MetS), however, the underlying mechanisms have not been understood yet. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of High-intensity interval training (HIIT), moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and further detraining on MetS indices, insulin resistance, serum and the liver levels of asprosin, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway in menopause–induced MetS model of rats. A total of 64 Wistar rats were used in this study and divided into 8 groups: Sham1, OVX1(ovariectomized), Sham2, OVX2, OVX + HIIT, OVX + MICT, OVX + HIIT + Det (detraining) and OVX + MICT + Det. Animals performed the protocols, and then serum concentrations of asprosin, TNF-α, insulin, fasting glucose, and lipids profile (TC, LDL, TG, and HDL) were assessed. Additionally, the liver expression of asprosin, AMPK, P-AMPK were measured by western blotting. Both HIIT and MICT caused a significant decrease in weight, waist circumference, BMI, and serum levels of glucose, insulin, asprosin, triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and TNF-α, but an increase in AMPK, P-AMPK, and P-AMPK/AMPK in the liver (P = 0.001), compared with OVX2 nonexercised group(P = 0.001). MICT was superior to HIIT in reducing serum asprosin, TNF-a, TG, LDL, insulin, fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, QUEKI index, AMPK and p-AMPK. Although after two month of de-training almost all indices returned to the pre exercise values (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that MICT effectively alleviates MetS–induced by menopause at least partly via activating liver signaling of P-AMPK and reducing asprosin and TNF-α.
Study of anatomical variations of the thenar recurrent branch of Median nerve.
Authors: Das Sarbani , Paul Mithu , Saha Ankita , Ghosh Susmita , Seth Tridib Kumar
Published: October 2023

Purpose: The Median nerve (MN) is one of the important nerves in Superior extremity and have a wide distribution up to wrist and palm. The course and branches of the MN in the wrist vary widely among the population. Awareness of anatomical variations of the median nerve at wrist is important in repair of traumatic injuries. It is essential to avoid iatrogenic nerve injury during treatments of it’s decompression surgery in Carpal tunnel release for Carpal tunnel syndrome. Due to significant differences in the reported cases of such variations, extensive knowledge on the anatomy of the MN is very helpful for the surgeons.
Our aim was to find out the prevalence rates of anatomical variations of the MN in the carpal tunnel and wrist, along with the variations of the million dollar nerve of hand, the thenar recurrent branch of median nerve.
Materials & Methods: 50 upper limbs of 25 well embalmed cadavers of both sexes above the age of 18 were dissected during routine UG dissections for 2 academic sessions 21-22 & 22-23 in West Bengal after taking institutional ethical clearance. All the variations of median nerve under the headings of, variation in branching pattern of median nerve in carpal tunnel,variation in origin course and termination of thenar recurrent nerve ,communication with ulnar nerve ,variations of common digital nerve was noted.
Results: Thenar recurrent nerve is commonly presented as single nerve, in 96% cases and in 74% cases the nerve originated from the radial side of median nerve. Only in 2 out of 50 cases we noted accessory TRN was present. In 36 out of 50 cases course of TRN is extraligamentous variety ,which is the most common presentation, followed by transligamentous variety which was noted in 20% cases (10 out of 50) and the least common type was Subligamentous variety present in 8% cases.
Conclusion: During release of flexor retinaculum for carpal tunnel syndrome or during other operative procedures involving the thenar muscles surgeons has to be more careful to protect thenar recurrent branch of median nerve as it is lying in intimate relation to flexor retinaculum and having varied origin & courses.
A Real-World Experience of Pembrolizumab Monotherapy in Microsatellite Instability-High and/or Tumor Mutation Burden-High Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Outcome Analysis
Authors: Kase Adam , Mosalem Osama , Tan Winston , Bryce Alan , Dronca Roxanna , Childs Daniel , Pagliaro Lance , Orme Jacob
Published: October 2023

Background
The efficacy of pembrolizumab monotherapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients when stratified by MSI-H and/or TMB-H is poorly defined. Additionally, outcomes based on sequencing source (i.e., tissue or liquid biopsy) have not been well described. We sought to assess outcomes of pembrolizumab monotherapy in patients with mCRPC and compare efficacy based on MSI-H and/or TMB-H when identified by tissue or liquid biopsy.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed of mCRPC patients treated at Mayo Clinic with pembrolizumab monotherapy between 2018 and 2023. Objective response rates (ORR), median progression-free survival (mPFS), and overall survival (mOS), were determined by RECIST v1.1 criteria.
Results
Twenty-two patients with mCRPC received pembrolizumab monotherapy for at least 3 cycles for an MSI-H or TMB-H indication. All patients had next generation sequencing (NGS) performed via tissue (n = 11) or liquid (n = 10) biopsy source. The ORR was 50% (27.3% complete response and 22.7% had partial response). The mPFS for TMB 10-14.9 mut/Mb (n = 4), TMB 15-24.9 mut/Mb (n = 6), and TMB ≥ 25 mut/Mb (n = 10) was 2.1, not reached (NR), and NR, respectively (p = 0.0003). The mOS for these same groups was 5.1 months, 20.5 months, and not reached, respectively. Among patients with TMB-H without co-occurring MSI-H or CDK12 (n = 6), none experienced a response and only one patient had stable disease compared to patients with MSI-H (n = 12) for whom the ORR was 75%. Immunotherapy responsive alterations such as ATRX and PTCH1 mutations were frequently noticed among patients who had complete response (CR).
Conclusions
Our study highlights that MSI-H drives the efficacy of pembrolizumab in mCRPC with better survival outcomes as TMB increases. Clinicians should consider alternative treatment strategies for advanced prostate cancer when TMB-H is present without co-occurring MSI-H or CDK12. This study further demonstrates the utility of liquid biopsy NGS for identifying MSI-H and/or TMB-H disease.
Role of Autoreactive Tc17 Cells in the Pathogenesis of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE)
Authors: Peng Yong , Zhang Xiu-Li , Tang Yan-dan , He Shun-qing , Rao Gui-lan , Chen Quan , Xue Ya-hui , Jin Hong , Liu Shu , Zhou Zi-yang , Xiang Yun
Published: October 2023

Background The pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), is primarily mediated by T cells. However, recent studies have only focused on CD4 + T-helper cells that secrete interleukin-17 (IL-17), also known as Th17 cells. This study aims to determine the similarities and differences between Th17 cells and CD8+ T-cytotoxic cells that secrete IL-17 (Tc17) in the context of MS/EAE.Methods Female C57BL/6 mice (n = 20) were immunized with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptides 35–55 (MOG35 − 55), pertussis toxin, and Complete Freund’s adjuvant to establish the EAE animal model. T-cells were isolated from the spleen (12–14 days post-immunization) and purified into CD4+ and CD8+ using flow cytometry. These cells were differentiated into Tc17 and Th17 using MOG35-55 and IL-23. Secretion levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and IL-17 were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using cultured CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells supernatant. Pathogenicity of Tc17 and Th17 cells was tested through adoptive transfer (tEAE), with the clinical course assessed using an EAE score (0–5). Hematoxylin and eosin and Luxol fast blue staining were used to examine the spinal cord.Results Purified CD8+CD3+ and CD4+CD3+ cells were differentiated into Tc17 and Th17 cells, and then stimulated with MOG35 − 55 peptide for proliferation assays. The results showed that Tc17 cells exhibited a weaker response to MOG35 − 55 compared to Th17 cells. However, this response was not dependent on Th17 cells. Tc17 cells secreted lower levels of IFN-γ and IL-17. In the tEAE mouse model, similar EAE scores and slight inflammation and demyelination were observed in Tc17 cell-induced tEAE mice compared to Th17 cell-induced tEAE mice.Conclusion Although Tc17 cells were pathogenic in EAE, their degree of pathogenicity was lower than that of Th17 cells. Tc17 cells secreted similar levels of IL-17 to Th17 cells after antigen stimulation, but their IFN-γ secretion was significantly lower.
Inflows towards Bipolar Magnetic Active Regions and Their Nonlinear Impact on a Three-Dimensional Babcock-Leighton Solar Dynamo Model
Authors: Teweldebirhan Kinfe , Miesch Mark , Gibson Sarah
Published: October 2023

The changing magnetic fields of the Sun are generated and maintained by a solar dynamo, the exact nature of which remains an unsolved fundamental problem in solar physics. Our objective in this paper is to investigate the role and impact of converging flows toward Bipolar Magnetic Regions (BMR inflows) on the Sun's global solar dynamo. These flows are large-scale physical phenomena that have been observed and so should be included in any comprehensive solar dynamo model. We have augmented the Surface ﬂux Transport And Babcock–LEighton (STABLE) dynamo model to study the nonlinear feedback effect of BMR inflows with magnitudes varying with surface magnetic fields. This fully-3D realistic dynamo model produces the sunspot butterfly diagram and allows a study of the relative roles of dynamo saturation mechanisms such as tilt-angle quenching and BMR inflows. The results of our STABLE simulations show that BMR inflows significantly affect the evolution of the BMRs themselves and result in a reduced buildup of the global poloidal field due to local flux cancellation within the BMRs, to an extent that is sufficient to saturate the dynamo. As a consequence, for the first time, we have achieved fully 3D solar dynamo solutions in which BMR inflows alone regulate the amplitudes and periods of the magnetic cycles.