bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proppant Packing Near the Fracture Tip during Tip Screenout: Asymptotic Models for Pressure Buildup Calibrated on Field Data and Verified with Two-Continua Simulations
Authors: Khmelenko Polina , Shel Egor , Boronin Sergei , Paderin Grigory , Osiptsov Andrei
Published: March 2022

We analyze pressure slopes during buildup when proppant placement into a fracture results in tip screenout (TSO), as observed in real field data on pumping of fracturing jobs. The phenomenon is described by proppant packing and jamming near the fracture tip, leading to TSO. Transient evolution of the zone of packed proppant near the tip and associated additional pressure drop along the packed bank are evaluated. Under the assumption of constant fracture height, the additional pressure drop during TSO grows as t(1+α), where tα is the law of proppant concentration growth (pressure drop grows quadratically in time, if the proppant concentration on surface at the blender grows linearly in time). The model is calibrated on field data from fracturing jobs in Western Siberia, Russia. These approximate models are verified with the two-continua model of proppant transport used to describe the process of proppant packing and jamming near the fracture tip. We also show how predictions of bottomhole pressure (BHP) growth during TSO obtained using proppant transport models implemented into existing hydraulic fracturing simulators can be significantly improved by a reasonable (based on behavior of dense suspensions at the packing limit) modification to parameters, describing suspension shear viscosity.
Antimicrobial Resistance from a One Health Perspective in Zambia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nowbuth Avis Anya , Asombang Akwi Wasi , Tazinkeng Nkengeh Ntangatung , Makinde Opeoluwa Yomi , Sheets Lincoln Ralph
Published: March 2022

Background:Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is widely acknowledged as a global health problem, yet its extent is not well evaluated, especially in low-middle income countries (LMICs). It is challenging to promote policies without focusing on healthcare systems at a local level, therefore a baseline assessment of the AMR prevalence is a priority. This study aimed to look at published papers relating to the prevalence of AMR in Zambia as a means of establishing an overview of the situation, to help inform future decisions.Methods:PubMed, Cochrane Libraries, Medical Journal of Zambia and African Journals Online databases were searched from inception to April 2021 for articles published in English in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Retrieval and screening of article was done using a structured search protocol with strict inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results:A total of 716 articles were retrieved, of which 25 articles met inclusion criteria for final analysis. AMR data was not available for six of the ten provinces of Zambia. Twenty-one different isolates from the human health, animal health and environmental health sectors were tested against 36 antimicrobial agents, across 13 classes of antibiotics. All the studies showed a degree of resistance to more than one class of antimicrobials. Majority of the studies focused on antibiotics, with only three studies (12%) highlighting antiretroviral resistance. Antitubercular drugs were addressed in only five studies (20%) despite an epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. No studies focused on antifungals. The most common organisms tested, across all three sectors, were Staphylococcus aureus, with a diverse range of resistance patterns found; followed by Escherichia coli with a high resistance rate found to cephalosporins (24%-100%) and fluoroquinolones (20%-100%). Conclusions: This review highlights three important findings. Firstly, AMR is understudied in Zambia. Secondly, the level of resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics is significant across the human, animal, and environmental sectors. Thirdly, this review suggests that improved standardization of antimicrobial susceptibility testing in Zambia could help to better delineate AMR patterns, allow comparisons across different locations and tracking of AMR evolution over time.
FLOT and CROSS Chemotherapy Regimens Alter The Frequency of CD27+ and CD69+ T Cells in Oesophagogastric Adenocarcinomas; Implications for Combination with Immunotherapy.
Authors: davern Maria , Donlon Noel E , Sheppard Andrew D , Connell Fiona O' , Majcher Klaudia D , Grant Malika , Heeran Aisling B. , Hayes Conall , Farrell Robert , Conroy Melissa J , Toole Dermot O' , Bracken-Clarke Dara , Foley Emma , Ravi Narayanasamy , Bhardwaj Anshul , Reynolds John V. , Maher Stephen G. , Sullivan Jacintha O' , Lysaght Joanne
Published: March 2022

Background: Combining immunostimulatory chemotherapies with immunotherapy is an attractive strategy to enhance treatment responses in oesophagogastric junctional adenocarcinoma (OGJ). Methods: This study investigates the immunostimulatory properties of FLOT, CROSS and MAGIC chemotherapy regimens in the context of OGJ using in vitro and ex vivo models of the treatment-naïve and post-chemotherapy treated tumour microenvironment. Results: FLOT and CROSS chemotherapy regimens increased the surrogate markers of immunogneic cell death, HMGB1 and HLA-DR, whereas the MAGIC treatment regimen decreased HMGB1 and HLA-DR on OGJ cells, markedly so for epirubicin. Tumour-infiltrating and circulating T cells had significantly lower CD27 expression and significantly higher CD69 expression post-FLOT and post-CROSS treatment. Similarly, the supernatant from FLOT- and CROSS-treated OGJ cell lines and from FLOT- and CROSS-treated OGJ biopsies cultured ex vivo also decreased CD27 and increased CD69 expression on T cells. Following 48h treatment with post-FLOT and post-CROSS tumour conditioned media the frequency of CD69+ T cells in culture negatively correlated with the levels of soluble immunosuppressive pro-angiogenic factors in the conditioned media from ex vivo explants. Supernatant from FLOT- and CROSS-treated OGJ cell lines also increased the cytotoxic potential of healthy donor T cells and enhanced OGJ patient-derived lymphocyte mediated-killing of OE33 tumour cells. Conclusions: Collectively, this data suggests that the FLOT and CROSS chemotherapy regimens may be more appropriate immunostimulatory partners than MAGIC to combine with immunotherapy to boost anti-tumour immunity for treating OGJ patients.
Long-term Blast Control in High Eating Quality Rice Using Multilines
Authors: Ishikawa Kouji , Kuroda Tomohisa , Hori Takeshi , Iwata Daisuke , Matsuzawa Seijiro , Nakabayashi Jun , Sasaki Akira , Ashizawa Taketo
Published: March 2022

Combining genetic heterogeneity and crop homogeneity serves a dual purpose: disease control and maintaining harvest quality. Multilines, which consist of a genetically uniform mixture of plants, have the potential to suppress disease while maintaining eating quality, yet practical methods that facilitate commercial use over large geographical areas are lacking. Here, we describe effective rice multiline management based on seed mixture composition changes informed by monitoring blast virulent races in Niigata prefecture, Japan. The most elite non-glutinous cultivar Koshihikari (KO) was changed to the multiline, KO BL (blast resistant lines), in 94,000 ha in 2005. The most destructive rice disease, blast, was 79.4 % and 81.8 % less severe in leaves and panicles, respectively, during the 2005–2019 period compared to the year 2004. In addition, fungicidal application was reduced by two-thirds after introduction of BL. Our results suggest that seed mixture diversification and rotation of resistant BL provides long-term disease control by avoiding virulent race evolution.
Effect of the BOPPPS model combined with case-based learning on ophthalmology education for five- year paediatric undergraduates in Southwest China
Authors: Chen Lin , Tang Xiao Jiao , Ke Ning , Chen Xin Ke , Liu Qin
Published: March 2022

Background
To investigate the effect of the bridge-in, objective, preassessment, participatory learning, post assessment, and summary (BOPPPS) model combined with case-based learning (CBL) on ophthalmology teaching for five-year paediatric undergraduates.
Methods
The effects of the BOPPPS model combined with CBL (BOPPPS-CBL) and traditional lecture-based learning (LBL) on ophthalmology teaching were compared among students in a five-year programme. The questionnaire surveys of the students were collected and statistically analysed after the class. The final examination scores, including on elementary knowledge and case analysis, in the two groups were analysed.
Results
There were no statistically significant differences between the teachers and students in the baseline data. More students agreed that the BOPPPS-CBL model helped develop their problem-solving skills, analytical skills and motivation for learning better than the LBL model. There was no significant difference in learning pressure between the two groups. The final examination scores of the BOPPPS-CBL group were significantly higher than those of the LBL group. The overall course satisfaction of the BOPPPS-CBL group was obviously higher than that of the LBL group.
Conclusions
The BOPPPS-CBL model is an effective ophthalmology teaching method for five-year paediatric undergraduates.
An Identity Based Session Key Agreement for Secure Vehicle to Vehicle Communication in VANETs
Authors: Reddi Siva Ranjani , Rao P Muralidhara , Saraswathi Pedada
Published: March 2022

Vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANETs) are mobile networks intended to connect vehicles in urban and rural areas to provide communication among the vehicles. Due to network openness, unfortunately, VANETs are subject to a large number of potential issues related to security and privacy. In this paper, an efficient privacy preserving secure vehicle to vehicle(V2V) communication is being proposed. In our scheme, vehicles are allowed to share their identity and the random message in a secured manner. Firstly, we proposed a privacy protected identity based mutual authentication. Further, to enhance the security levels, session key is derived from timestamps, common key shared by the vehicles, privacy protected identity and random nonce decided by both the vehicles. Finally, the efficiency of proposed scheme is compared with existing privacy-preserving secure communication techniques, results proved that, our scheme is computationally taking less time. Also, it is secured against unknown key share attack, replay attack, key-compromised impersonation attack etc.
Phare-M Performance quantitative results: a quality improvement program to advance the care of cystic fibrosis and patient outcomes in French CF centres
Authors: Pougheon Dominique , Nowak Emmanuel , Lombrail Pierre , Dehillotte Clemence , Lemonnier Lydie , Ramel Sophie
Published: March 2022

Background: In 2012 and 2013, a quality improvement program was launched in 14 Cystic Fibrosis centres in France to improve care and patient outcomes. The PHARE-M performance study, funded by the French Ministry of Health, was designed to assess the impacts of the program. One goal was to determine whether the undertaking aimed at developing a culture of quality among care teams would result in limiting lung function decline in patients and/or would present improved BMI evolution results when compared with control centres. Methods: A quantitative experimental study was designed using repeated data on forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and on body mass index (BMI) over time. Two groups of patients were included in a closed cohort: one group took part in the PHARE-M program while the other did not participate. Patients were paired (1-1) based on age range and type of centre. The annual values collected in the French Patient Registry for the years 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 were used as data. In the case of transplanted and deceased patients, data were replicated up to year 2015 using the last available value in the registry before death or transplantation. Results: In 2012, 1077 patients were included in each of the two paired groups. By 2015, 155 patients and their pairs had left the cohort due to them changing centres during the study. The sex ratio was different in the two paired groups. Before controlling for the sex ratio, no significant differences regarding the 3-year evolution of the mean FEV1 and BMI data were observed between the two groups, except for a significant difference in adolescents (13-17 years of age) for the mean BMI Z-score (control population: +0.04, Std error=0.01, p<0.0001; PHARE-M group: -0.034, Std error=0.014, p=0.018). Conclusion/Discussion: In the context of the PHARE-M performance study, when comparing centres trained in the QI program and nonparticipating centres, significant impacts on the evolution of patient outcomes were not identified after three years. However, changes in the organization of care had a local impact on the outcomes of a select number of patients, as reported in previous articles.
Patient Tilt Improves Efficacy of CO2 Field-flooding in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Vandenberghe Stijn , Singjeli Geni , Demertzis Stefanos
Published: March 2022

Objective: Space limitations during minimally invasive cardiac surgery impede consistent use of CO2 field-flooding. We compared different gas delivery methods, flow rates and the effect of patient inclination. Methods: A gastight model of MICS surgery with internal organs and right thoracotomy wound was created from a mannequin and equipped with a CO2 concentration sensor in the left ventricle. Maximum achievable CO2 concentration was compared for gas delivery via three commercial CO2 diffusors (CarbonMini, Temed, Andocor) and also via a trocar with side port. Gas flow rates of 1, 3, 5 and 8 liter per minute were tested. The model was placed either in supine position or with 20° oblique tilt. A simplified transparent model was also created and placed in an optical test bench to evaluate the gas cloud motions via real-time visualization.Results: The trocar consistently achieved higher CO2 concentrations inside the left ventricle. At 1 l/min, approximately 2.5 minutes were needed to fill the supine model to its maximum CO2 concentration, which was limited to a range of 48-82% in the left ventricle. At higher flow rates, filling time and concentration were significantly improved. In a tilted model, all devices and all flow rates generated on average 99% CO2 in the ventricle. Imaging revealed constant gas exchange via the main incision, with CO2 outflow via bottom and air inflow via the top of the incision. Conclusions: CO2 field flooding in minimally invasive cardiac surgery is highly effective if the patient is tilted. Else a flow rate of 5 l/min is recommended to achieve the same protection.
Long-term Outcomes of Anatomical Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: a Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: She Wong Hoi , Cheung Tan To , Tsang Simon H.Y. , Dai Wing Chiu , Chan Albert C.Y. , Lo Chung Mau
Published: March 2022

Objective: To compare anatomical resection (AR) and non-anatomical resection (NAR) in terms of postoperative outcomes and long-term survival in patients of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Summary Background Data: HCC is a common cancer and studies of AR versus NAR for HCC had contradictory findings.Methods: Data of patients having AR or NAR for HCC in 2000-2015 were reviewed. Propensity-score matching (AR:NAR, 2:1) was performed to match the two groups in liver function and tumor number, size, and marker. The two matched groups were compared in terms of tumor characteristics, operative details, postoperative and oncological outcomes, and survival.Results: After matching, there were 382 patients in AR group and 191 patients in NAR group. AR group had fewer minor resections (p<0.001) and laparoscopic resections (11% vs 19.4%, p=0.006), more blood loss (0.565 vs 0.335 L, p<0.001) and transfusion (9.2% vs 3.7%, p<0.001), longer operations (353 vs 214 min, p<0.001) and hospitalization (p<0.001), more macrovascular involvement (4.2% vs 0%, p=0.004), fewer recurrences (p=0.003), longer disease-free period (52.9 vs 39.2 months, p=0.041), and better disease-free survival (p=0.012). The groups were comparable in complication and overall survival (p=0.377). On multivariate analysis, macrovascular involvement (HR 3.689, 95% CI 2.099-6.485, p<0.01) and NAR (HR 0.796, 95% CI 0.640-0.989, p=0.039) were independent risk factors for disease-free survival.Conclusions: For HCC, AR showed a benefit in disease-free survival but not overall survival, while NAR resulted in a better postoperative profile.
Acute pancreatitis in 60 Iranian children: do pediatricians follow the new guidelines in diagnosis and management of acute pancreatitis?
Authors: khiabani Mahsa soti , Mohammadi Mahya Sadat , Ghoreyshi Seyyed amirreza , Rohani Pejman , Alimadadi Hosein , Sohouli Mohammad Hassan
Published: March 2022

Background: the incidence of acute pancreatitis in children is increasingو but causes and diagnostic and therapeutic methods are different in different centers. The aim of this study was to investigate the common causes and routine diagnostic and therapeutic methods of acute pancreatitis in children in a pediatric gastrointestinal referral center and its compliance with existing guidelines. Methods: In this retrospective, cross-sectional study, a total of 60 children with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis, were studied.Results: The most common causes of acute pancreatitis were systemic and metabolic diseases and medications. CT scan was performed for 36% of patients, but 31% of patients, for whom a CT scan was performed had no clear indication of CT scan. Only half of the patients received fluid 1.5 times their maintenance in the first 24 hours. Antibiotic therapy was performed for 48% of patients but medical indications for antibiotic treatment were found in only 34% of cases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the relative incidence of acute pancreatitis was increased.Conclusions: In children with systemic and metabolic disease and using anticonvulsant drugs, it is important to consider the incidence of this disease. In clinical education, the risks of radiation due to unnecessary CT scans and inappropriate prescription of antibiotics need to be emphasized. More research should be done to study the association between COVID-19 and acute pancreatitis.
Patient-Reported Distress and Problems Among Elderly Patients with Hematological Malignancy in Korea
Authors: Park Sun-young , Kim Yoonjoo , Hong Hyunju
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Treatment for hematological malignancies (HMs) and functional decline associated with age can cause distress in elderly patients with HMs. However, information about the nature and effects of distress in this population is scarce. Therefore, this study examined the level of distress, its source, and the practical/familial/physical/emotional problems among elderly patients with HMs. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients with HMs aged ≥ 65 years who visited an outpatient clinic at a tertiary medical center in Korea between November 2019 and March 2020. Patient-reported distress and problems were measured using the Distress Thermometer (DT) and 39‐item Problem List by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Descriptive statistics, χ2 test or Fisher’s exact test, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted (N = 132). Results: In total, 62.1% of patients were had moderate to severe distress (DT score ≥ 4), experiencing an average of nine problems. Significant sources of distress on multivariate logistic analysis included problems with transportation, depression, and constipation, accounting for 47% of distress variance. Most patients had physical (97.0%) or emotional problems (79.5%). Among these, fatigue (60.6%), worry (59.8%), tingling (59.8%), getting around (47.0%), and memory/concentration (40.2%) were the most frequently reported problems. Conclusions: Elderly patients with HMs have a high burden of distress, which is affected by different sources, compared with patients with general cancer. Thus, in this population, assessment and management of distress need to be conducted considering the unique features of their source and burden. Further research on distress should consider the cancer type and population age.
Psychoeducational and Rehabilitation Interventions for Late Life Anxiety and Depression among the Older Adults at Geriatric Home
Authors: El-Fatah Wafaa Osman Abd , Elborie Haitham Osama
Published: March 2022

Background: The Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030) seeks to reduce health inequities and improve the lives of older people. purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of the psychoeducational and rehabilitation interventions for late-life anxiety and depression among older adults at geriatric homes, a quasi-experimental research design was performed on convenient sample consisting of 20 elderlies at Om-Kolsom geriatric home are in Helwan city, Egypt on May 2021.Results: There is a statistically significant improvement in depression and anxiety symptoms among the elderly who have been studied, and in total depression and anxiety levels in the post-intervention study compared with pre-intervention.Conclusions: At a geriatric home, psychoeducational and rehabilitation interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety among the elderly.
Risk and Main Contributing Factors for Constipation in Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study in China
Authors: Ma Xiaoxiao , Lu Qian , Lu Yuhan , Li Xin
Published: March 2022

Background and objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the risk of constipation and to identify the significant risk factors for constipation in patients with gastrointestinal cancer using the Chinese version of the Constipation Risk Assessment Scale (CRAS-C), as well as to explore the complementary constipation risk factors in patients with gastrointestinal cancer, to improve the specificity of the CRAS-C in this population, and finally to provide a theoretical basis for constipation prevention. Research design and methods: A cross-sectional study involving multiple centers was conducted. A total of 190 patients with gastrointestinal cancer completed surveys that included demographic information, defecation habits, and the CRAS-C. The mean, SD, median, maximum, minimum, frequency, and percentage were used as indicators for the constipation risk and significant risk factors. The t-test and Chi-square tests were used to analyze constipation indicators in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Results: 190 patients were 58.92±12.07 years of age.The total CRAS-C mean (SD) score was 13.22 (4.69). 51 patients (26.8%) scored lower than 11, who were at the low risk level of constipation. 139 patients (73.2%) scored 11 or above, who were at the high risk level of constipation. The top 10 factors were insufficient liquid intake(81.1%), failure to consume bran products daily(78.9%), insufficient fiber intake(77.9%), antiemetics (74.7%), cytotoxic chemotherapy (52.6%), colorectal/abdominal diseases (42.6%), opioid analgesics (35.3%), opioid analgesics(26.8%), calcium channel blockers (16.3%), endocrine disorders (14.2%). Chi square test showed that constipating for most of the past 3 months, ascites and ECOG score were complementary constipation risk factors in gastrointestinal cancer patients. Conclusion: The findings indicate that most gastrointestinal cancer patients were at a high risk of constipation. There are also several complementary constipation risk factors and CRAS-C can be further revised in future studies to make it more specific in gastrointestinal cancer patients. Integrating CRAS into the pathway of constipation management, carrying out constipation risk screening for hospitalized cancer patients, building systematic constipation prevention plan based on risk assessment are important to reduce the incidence of constipation in patients with gastrointestinal cancer, and improve the quality of life.
Common Mental Disorders And Equity In Health Care Use: São Paulo-Capital Health Survey
Authors: Gianini Reinaldo José , Santos Gustavo Brito Venâncio dos , Salvestro Gabriel
Published: March 2022

Background: Common Mental Disorders (CMDs) compromise quality of life, thus generating socioeconomic costs. Objectives: To analyze equity regarding use of the services and health expenditures among individuals with CMDs, and their relationships with sociodemographic variables.Methodology: The data are from the 2015 São Paulo health survey, with application of SRQ-20. The participants have given their consent for their data to be used in this research.Results: The sample presented a CMD prevalence of 19.7% (95% CI=18.2%-21.4%). Higher CMD prevalence values were found among users of the public health services (PR=1.49; 95% CI=1.25-1.76) and in groups with ≥ 33 dollars of health expenditures in the last month (PR=1.28; 95% CI=1.08-1.52). For individuals with CMDs, the main variables associated with “used the public health system” and “health expenditure < 33 dollars” were lower schooling levels, lower per capita family income, and age < 60 years old. There was an inverse relationship between use of the Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde, SUS) and health expenditure. ﻿Conclusion: Use of the SUS by people with CMDs follows the principle of equity in that it assists groups that are underprivileged in terms of schooling and family income, but not those over 60 years old.
Linking The North Atlantic Oscillation to Winter Precipitation Over The Western Himalaya Through Disturbances of The Subtropical Jet
Authors: Hunt Kieran , Zaz Sumira Nazir
Published: March 2022

Winter (December to March) precipitation is vital to the agriculture and water security of the Western Himalaya and is largely brought to the region by extratropical systems, known as western disturbances (WDs), which are embedded in the subtropical jet. In this study, using seventy years of data, it is shown that during positive phases of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO+), the subtropical jet is significantly more intense than during negative phases (NAO-). Accordingly, it is shown that the NAO significantly affects WD behaviour on interannual timescales: during NAO + periods, WDs are on average 20% more common and 7% more intense than during NAO- periods. This results in 40% more moisture flux entering the region and impinging on the Western Himalaya and an average increase in winter precipitation of 45% in NAO + compared to NAO-. Using empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis, North Atlantic variability is causally linked to precipitation over North India – latitudinal variation in the jet over the North Atlantic is linked to waviness downstream, whereas variation in its tilt over the North Atlantic is linked to its strength and shear downstream. These results are used to construct a simple linear model that can skilfully predict winter precipitation over north India at a lead time of one month.
Exploring Genetic Variability In Okra (Abelmoschus Sp.) Accessions Using Promoter Targeted CAAT Box-Derived Polymorphism (CBDP) And Start Codon Targeted (Scot) Markers
Authors: V. Puneeth P. , Lata Suman , Yadav R. K. , Wankhede Dhammaprakash P , Tomar B. S. , Choudary H. , Tomer Avinash , Bidaramali V. , Talukdar A.
Published: March 2022

Okra is a warm season vegetable with excellent nutritional, medicinal and industrial potential. Though it is an important vegetable crop but genetic maps and linkage groups are not defined due to the presence of a few polymorphic molecular markers. In this study, we have used CAAT box-derived polymorphism (CBDP) and start codon targeted (ScoT) markers to determine the genetic diversity and population structure of the wild and cultivated population of okra, a genetically orphan crop. Twenty-five CBDP and thirty-six ScoT markers were used on eighty-nine okra accessions to generate polymorphic bands and to analyze the genetic diversity. Out of the 61 primers used, 27 (20-CBDP and 7-ScoT) primers were amplified with clearly visible polymorphic bands. The band size range of CBDP primers was 350-1500bp and for ScoT primers, it was 200-3000bp.Nei’sgenetic diversity was 1.7 for CBDP and 0.13 for ScoT. AMOVA of both markers combined showed 17% and 83% variation among and within-population, respectively. A UPGMA hierarchical dendrogram based on Jaccard’s similarity was drawn for CBDP and ScoT clustered all the accessions into many clades, with significant clustering of cultivated accessions on one clade and wild populations on the other. Bayesian model STRUCTURE analysis of Abelomoschus populations based on CBDP and ScoT markers gave two (K =2) and four (K = 4) genetic structures, respectively, with small admixture. In all the parameters studied, CBDP markers outperformed the ScoT markers.
Does Renewable Energy Determine the Environmental Impacts of Economic Growth? New Evidence from PSTR Analysis
Authors: Aydin Celil , Cetintas Yagmur
Published: March 2022

This study investigates the relationship between environmental pollution and economic growth in the context of renewable energy in OECD countries using the panel smooth transition regression (PSTR) model for the 1995-2018 period. The study finds the value of the threshold variable, determined as the share of renewable energy use in total energy consumption, as 7.825%. In this context, economic growth affects the environment negatively and increases environmental pollution when the share of renewable energy use in energy consumption is below the threshold level. On the other hand, when it is above the threshold level, it reduces environmental pollution by affecting the environment positively. Therefore, the widespread use of renewable energy is a solution to reduce environmental pollution. Accordingly, it is very important for policy makers to both highlight and encourage renewable energy use. Furthermore, countries need to both invest in this area and focus on R&D to increase renewable energy production.
The Impact Of The Serotonin Transporter Gene Promoter DNA Methylation And Parenting Styles On Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: He Qianqian , Kang Qing , Yu Shunying , Peng Sufang , Chen Han , Lin Zhiguang , Xiao Zeping , Chen Jue
Published: March 2022

Purpose: The serotonin system and parenting styles have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of anorexia nervosa (AN). The study was aimed to explore the effect of the methylation of the promoter region of serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4), also called 5-HTTLPR, parenting styles as well as their interaction on AN.Methods: 91 AN patients (ANs) and 87 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited, from whom 41 ANs and 40 HCs completed the environmental assessment. 5-HTTLPR methylation levels, clinical symptoms and environmental factors were assessed at baseline for all participants. 5-HTTLPR methylation was measured by MassArray methods and clinical symptoms were mainly evaluated by the EDE-Q6.0 scale. Environmental assessment is the parenting attitudes and behaviors used by the EMBU scale.Results: ANs had higher methylation at CpG 11, CpG 24.25, CpG 31.32 and CpG_mean than HCs (P=0.039, 0.042, 0.018, 0.001). Furthermore, it was the binge/purging subtype that revealed significant hypermethylation at CpG 24.25 and CpG_mean (P=0.027, 0.031). Both CpG11 methylation level and the parenting styles of refusal denial, overprotection for father were both positively correlated the EDEQ-6.0 scores in ANs (P=0.047, 0.018). Besides, their interaction analysis found, it was the overprotection, not the refusal denial for father that significantly associated with EDEQ-6.0 scores in ANs (P=0.030).Conclusions: Our study provided preliminary evidence that 5-HTTLPR DNA methylation at CpG11 and parenting styles of refusal denial, overprotection for father played vital roles in AN pathogenesis. Their interaction analysis indicated it was father’s overprotection that significantly associated with the clinical symptoms in ANs.
Barriers and Facilitators of a New Model of Stratified Exercise Therapy in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Knoop Jesper , de Joode Willemijn , Brandt Hella , Dekker Joost , Ostelo Raymond
Published: March 2022

Background. We developed a new model of stratified exercise therapy that distinguishes three knee osteoarthritis (OA) subgroups (‘high muscle strength subgroup’, ‘low muscle strength subgroup’, ‘obesity subgroup’), which are provided subgroup-specific exercise therapy (supplemented by a dietary intervention for the ‘obesity subgroup’). The present study aimed at exploring barriers and facilitators of this new model.Methods. Qualitative research design embedded within a cluster randomized controlled trial in a primary care setting. A random sample from the experimental arm were interviewed (i.e., 15 patients, 11 physiotherapists and 5 dieticians). Qualitative data from these semi-structured interviews were thematically analyzed according to the grounded theory approach, to identify barriers and facilitators.Results. We identified six themes. Two themes applied to the model in general, emphasizing the perceived added value and applicability of the model. Three themes specifically applied to a subgroup. For the ‘high muscle strength subgroup’, the low number of supervised sessions was perceived advantageous by some and hindering by others. The ‘low muscle strength subgroup’ treatment was considered mostly comparable with usual care, therefore easy to provide. For the ‘obesity subgroup’, the potential of combining exercise therapy with weight loss was generally acknowledged, but physiotherapists perceived obesity difficult to address, and both physiotherapists and dieticians reported a lack of interprofessional collaboration. A sixth theme addressed barriers of knee OA treatment in general, with lack of motivation as most prominent barrier.Conclusion. This qualitative study revealed a number of barriers and facilitators of effective application of our model. Addressing these barriers and facilitators may enhance the effectiveness of the model.Trial registrationThe Netherlands National Trial Register (NTR): NL7463 (date of registration: 8 January 2019)
Greek-Cypriot nurses and midwives attitudes, beliefs and knowledge on medical cannabis: A cross-sectional descriptive correlational study
Authors: Sokratous Sokratis , Kaikoushi Katerina , Mpouzika Meropi , Alexandrou George , Karanikola Maria
Published: March 2022

Background: There is a lack of evidence on the attitudes, knowledge and beliefs towards medical cannabis (MC) in healthcare professionals, nationally and internationally. Additionally, there is lack of knowledge, and clinical guidance on MC use among healthcare professionals. We aimed to explore the attitudes, beliefs and knowledge of nurses and midwives on MC use in Cyprus. Special focus was given on gender differences, age group, religion, family status and work experience. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional correlational study with internal comparisons was performed on nurses and midwives during the 26th Nurses and Midwives Congress in Cyprus. All active nurses and midwives from public and private sector of private and national healthcare services (n=526) were eligible to participate. Pearson chi-square test for group differences was employed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were assessed.Results: The sample consisted of 232 nurses and midwives (the response rate was 46.46%), while 28.9% of them were male and 71.1% were female (mean: 32.3 years, SD: 9.2, range: 21–70). The participants reported lack of knowledge on MC effectiveness in the majority of the disorders included in the questionnaire. Nevertheless, they reported that MC was acceptable for persistent muscle spam (28.9%), insomnia/sleeping disorders (26.7%), mental health conditions (28%) and terminal illness (20.3%). Male and unmarried participants more frequently reported cannabis use cannabis recreational purposes (p<0.01), and that they had a friend who used cannabis for recreational purposes (p<0.05). Moreover, the age group of 20-30 years, more frequently agreed that additional research on MC needs to be integrated into academic programs (p<0.05)Conclusions: Enrichment of nursing curricula with theoretical and clinical/ laboratory courses in MC, during their studies, and during their employment in clinical settings is proposed. Additional interventions to decrease recreational cannabis use among Cypriot nurses and midwives should be considered based on gender and age.
Analysis of Anthropometrics and Mechanomyography Signals as Forearm Flexion, Pronation and Supination Torque Predictors
Authors: Talib Irsa , Sundaraj Kenneth , Lam Chee Kiang , Hussain Jawad , Ahmad Zeeshan
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze anthropometrics and mechanomyography (MMG) signals as forearm flexion, pronation and supination torque predictors. Twenty-five young, healthy, male participants performed the isometric forearm flexion, pronation and supination tasks from 20 to 100% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) maintaining right angle at elbow joint. Nine anthropometric measures and MMG signals from biceps brachii (BB), brachialis (BRA) and brachioradialis (BRD) muscles recorded using triaxial accelerometers were correlated with torque values. Significant positive correlations were found for arm circumference (CA) and MMG root mean square (RMS) values with flexion torque at five submaximal to maximal MVC levels. Flexion torque might be predicted using arm circumference (r = 0.426–0.557), a pseudo for muscle size and MMG RMS (r = 0.404–0.470), an indication of muscle activation.
Regional Industrial Growth and Biopharma Patent Networks Empirical Insights from the UK
Authors: Gao Yuan , Zhu Zhen
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has once again brought the significance of biopharmaceutical and medical technology sectors to the spotlight. Seeing that some of the most critical medical breakthroughs such as the speedy mRNA vaccine development were results of cross-border patenting collaboration, we have proposed in a previous work a new method to identify the cross-border collaborative regional centres in the patent networks, using on a clustering comparison approach based on adjusted mutual information (AMI). In this paper, we focus on the UK industrial landscape. We use the UK bioscience and health technology sector statistics from 2015 to 2020 and look into the regional growth of each postcode area. We compare the top growth regions with the cross-border collaborative centers identified using AMI comparison at the postcode area level, and find that areas more central in the long-term cross-regional R&D collaboration tend to have more developed industrial settings with higher business numbers and, potentially more employment and turnover in the field.
Adjuvant radiotherapy and survival of patients with squamous cell carcinoma involving the entire tongue: The SEER database analysis
Authors: Ding Zhenyu , Yao Run , Zuo Jun , Li Ning
Published: March 2022

We examined the benefits of adjuvant radiotherapy (aRT) for patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was applied to identify patients treated with or without aRT for tongue SCC. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test assessed survival curves for SCC stages stratified by aRT. Hazard ratios were estimated for stage and aRT concerning overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS). Propensity-score matching was performed to assess differences in baseline characteristics. We included 3322 cases. The total number of deaths and disease-specific deaths were 1234 (37.15%) and 938 (28.24%), respectively. The Kaplan–Meier curves for 5-year OS and DSS showed that patients receiving aRT had lower and higher survival probabilities during Stages I and IV, respectively (P<0.0001). On Cox regression analysis, aRT and 5-year OS and DSS were positively and negatively associated with Stage I and Stage IV patients, respectively. Sensitivity analysis results were consistent before and after PSM. OS and DSS of Stage II and III patients in the aRT and non-aRT groups were not significantly different (P<0.05). aRT WAS significantly associated with survival benefits and worse survival for Stage IV and I tongue SCC cases, respectively.
The relationship of postural asymmetry to inspiratory and expiratory pressure of young women
Authors: Paśko Sławomir , Sutkowski Marek , Grudniewski Tomasz , Żuk Beata
Published: March 2022

Introduction
Breathing mechanic is determined by tonus and flexibility, correct contraction amplitude of the thoracic diaphragm, relaxation, and the activity of auxiliary muscles. Respiratory muscle strength is evaluated by measuring the static maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressures. The aim of this research was to determine the relationship between MIP and MEP and body posture in female soccer players.
Material and methods
The research involved a group of 57 women aged 16–20 years (42 soccer players and 15 controls) without disorders in the movement apparatus, cardiovascular system, or respiratory system. MIP and MEP were measured and analyzed with respect to body posture in three different positions. MIP and MEP values were evaluated with Micro Respiratory Muscle Analyzer (CareFusion). The body posture in the coronal plane from the back measured with a non-contact 3D photogrammetry system.
Results
Asymmetries in body posture were also measured and compared between groups. Asymmetry was observed at all anatomical locations in each of the postural positions, with an increase in asymmetry of the scapulae in the soccer players (p = 0.008). The control group had increased asymmetry at the skull nuchal line.
Conclusions
These results draw attention to the need for standardizing the evaluation procedure for respiratory muscle strength and interpretation of results. Postural measurements allow linkage of specific postural errors to the maximum strength of inspiratory and expiratory muscles. The asymmetrical location of the scapulae may be followed by a disturbance in the maximum strength of the inspiratory muscles.
The effects of Acesulfame Potassium injection in the prenatal period on adult spermatogenesis
Authors: zereshki razieh , Noori Ali
Published: March 2022

Purpose
This study investigated the effect of Acesulfame-K administration during pregnancy on spermatogenesis.
Methods
Four groups of rats were intraperitoneally injected with Ace-K in doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400mg/kg body weight during pregnancy. After lactation, the newborn male rats were divided into the "treated group" which received Ace-K as their mothers had and the "untreated group" which reached puberty naturally. Blood samples were collected and LH, FSH, and testosterone levels were measured. Sperm density, morphology, and motility were evaluated. The histopathology of the testes tissue, weight changes and testis weight to body weight ratios were examined.
Results
Testosterone had significantly increased in the "treated group" in the 50, 200, 400mg doses. FSH significantly decreased in the "treated group" in the 50, 100mg, and in the "untreated group" in the 50, 200, 400mg doses. Neonatal weight gain up to puberty was significantly higher in the "treated group" in the 50, 200mg doses. There was a significant difference in the weight gain of the pregnant rats in the 200mg dose. A significant difference in the percentage of abnormal sperm was observed in both groups in the 50mg dose. A significant decrease in sperm motility was observed in the "treated group" with 200 and 400mg doses, and significant increase was seen in the "treated group" with the 50 and 100mg doses and the "untreated group" with the 400mg dose. The results show no significant difference in other measurements.
Conclusion
In this study, changes in hormone levels and spermatogenesis did not necessarily indicate any negative effects of Ace-K on fertility.
The long non-coding RNA EGOT promotes pancreatic cancer progression by sequestering miR-214 to derepress PLS3 expression
Authors: Yao Jie , Duan Heng , Xin Zechang , Liu Peng , Cai Lijie , Han Jinrui , Wang Xiaodong , Li Zhennan , Qian Jianjun
Published: March 2022

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play central roles in diverse oncogenic contexts. Database-based bioinformatics analyses indicated that pancreatic cancer (PC) samples exhibit the upregulation of the lncRNA EGOT. The present study was therefore designed to explore the role of this lncRNA in PC, focusing on its ability to regulate the EGOT/miR-214/PLS3 axis.Methods: A qPCR approach was used to quantify EGOT, miR-214, and PLS3 mRNA levels in PC cells, while PLS3 protein levels were examined via Western blotting. Tumor cell invasivity and proliferation were measured through CCK-8, EdU, and wound healing assays. The impact of EGOR knockdown on in vivo PC tumor growth was additionally assessed. Results: EGOT upregulation was observed in PC cells, and the knockdown of this lncRNA significantly impaired their migration, proliferation, and invasion. Direct binding interactions between miR-214 and both EGOT and PSL3 were detected, and miR-214 inhibition was sufficient to partially reverse the impact of EGOT knockdown on PLS3 expression and PC cell proliferative and migratory activity. Knocking down EGOT also suppressed the in vivo growth of PC tumors, and relationships between EGOT, miR-214, and PLS3 were confirmed in this animal model system. Conclusion:We confirmed that EGOT serves as an important regulator of PC development, suggesting that it may be a valuable diagnostic biomarker and/or therapeutic target in this oncogenic context.
Longitudinal Association Of Atopic Dermatitis Progression And Keratin 6A
Authors: Zhu Yaqian , Mitra Nandita , Margolis David
Published: March 2022

Atopic dermatitis is a common skin disease characterized by skin breakdown. Risk and severity have been associated with genetic variation especially with respect to the filaggrin gene, suggesting the importance of skin barrier function in atopic dermatitis pathogenesis. The keratin protein plays a role in epithelial health but its relationship with disease severity would benefit from further exploration. In this study, we evaluate the association between common keratin 6 variants and severity of atopic dermatitis over time using a Bayesian generalized linear mixed model to account for repeated measures. We identify groups of variants within which individual variants have similar effects on skin healing. Further assessment of the biological mechanisms by which these contribute to healing or breakdown of epidermis may inform treatment of atopic dermatitis.
A national diagnostic framework for patients with ultra-rare disorders: molecular genetic findings using phenotypic and sequencing data
Authors: Krawitz Peter
Published: March 2022

Most individuals with rare diseases first contact primary care physicians. Although efficient diagnostic routines exist for a subset of rare diseases, ultra-rare entities often require expert clinical knowledge or comprehensive genetic diagnostics, which poses structural challenges to public healthcare systems. To address these challenges, a novel structured diagnostic concept based on the presence of multidisciplinary expertise at centers for rare diseases (CRDs) that have been established at German university hospitals in recent years, was evaluated in a prospective study (TRANSLATE-NAMSE). Between January 2018 and December 2020, 5652 patients were enrolled in the study and were comprehensively assessed by multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) at ten CRDs. Exome sequencing (ES) was initiated for 268 adult and 1309 pediatric patients and partially complemented by additional molecular tests. Conclusive diagnoses were established in 494 individuals, covering 400 diagnostic-grade genes, suggesting ultra-rare disorders were enriched in this cohort. In addition, we describe 56 novel gene-phenotype associations, mainly in individuals with neurodevelopmental delay. A subcohort of 211 individuals was analyzed with the artificial intelligence–based PEDIA protocol, which integrates next-generation phenotyping on medical imaging and sequencing data. With the entire cohort data, we developed a tool to predict the diagnostic yield from the clinical features of a patient if advanced molecular testing strategies are applied.