bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Rainfall Induced Landslide Using Machine Learning Models along Highway Bandipora to Gurez Road, J&K, India
Authors: Nanda Aadil Manzoor , Lone Fayaz Ahmad , Ahmed Pervez
Published: February 2023

The present study attempts to explore the efficacy of machine learning models in landslide predictions caused by rainfall events along Highway from Bandipora to Gurez, J&K, India. Random Forest (RF) and Logistic Regression (LR) Models were employed to find the optimal parameters for targeted feature i.e. landslide prediction. These models were evaluated for accuracy using the receiver operating characteristics, area under the curve (ROC-AUC) and false negative rate (FNR). The results reveal a positive correlation between antecedent precipitation and landslide occurrence rather than between single-day landslide and rainfall events. Comparing the two models, LR model’s performance is well within the acceptable limits of FNR and therefore could be preferred for landslide prediction over RF. LR model’s incorrect prediction rate is 8.48% without including antecedent precipitation data and 5.84% including antecedent precipitation data. Our study calls for wider use of Machinery Learning Models for developing early warning systems of landslides.
Efficacy of cell therapy for osteonecrosis of the hip compared with hip arthroplasty in sickle cell disease: a systematic review
Authors: Botelho Valéria , Gomes Stéfany de Lima , Pereira Beatriz Neves da Rocha , de Souza Andreza Maria Luzia Baldo , Souza Lohana Guimarães , Tamay Tamay Botelho , Santos Roberto Dias , Pereira Antonio Carlos
Published: February 2023

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and effectiveness of the use of cell therapy in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the hip in people with sickle cell disease (SCD) compared with hip arthroplasty.
Methodology: Articles published from 2015 to 2019 in English, Portuguese, or Spanish were screened in the following databases: Cochrane, PubMed, Science Research, CAPES (Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel), Virtual Health Library (VHL) and SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online). The following keywords were used: cell therapy, osteonecrosis, hip, sickle cell anemia and arthroplasty. People with sickle cell disease who developed osteonecrosis of the hip and underwent treatment using cell therapy or hip arthroplasty were selected as the sample.
Results: After refining the searches and organizing the references, seven studies were selected that met the eligibility criteria.
Discussion: We found that out of the seven studies evaluated, three presented autologous bone marrow cell implantation and four presented hip arthroplasty (THA) as an intervention procedure in osteonecrosis of the hip in people with SCD. In all studies in which THA was used, there was a higher prevalence of complications such as vaso-occlusive crises, pain, surgical wound infection and reintervention, among others. In most studies using cell therapy, pain was reduced or absent, there were no complications and reintervention was not necessary. All studies with cell therapy indicated a reduction in the progression of osteonecrosis of the hip.
Conclusion:Considering the analyzed studies, it was found that autologous bone marrow cell implantation has gained prominence and great relevance in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the hip in people with sickle cell disease, presenting a better clinical outcome and greater efficacy and effectiveness compared with hip arthroplasty. Systematic review record: a study pre-registered in PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac. uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42020199505) under the number CDR42020199505, before data collection.
Comparative Assessment of Efficacy and Safety of approved Oral Therapies for Overactive Bladder: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: He Wenjuan , Huang Guangliang , Cui Wenyan , Tian Yunfei , Sun Qian , Zhao Xiaojuan , Zhao Yonghong , Li Dan , Liu Xiuju
Published: February 2023

Purpose
To compare the effectiveness and safety of marketed oral drugs for the treatment of overactive bladder.
Methods
Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials databases were systematically searched. The search time frame was from database creation to June 2, 2022, and randomized controlled double-blind trials of oral drugs for overactive bladder were screened. Trials were evaluated for quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool, and data were statistically analyzed using Stata 16.0 to compare and rank differences in effectiveness and safety.
Result
A total of 60 randomized controlled double-blind trials were included. Solifenacin 10mg was the most effective in micturitions and incontinence episodes, solifenacin 5/10mg in urgency and nocturia, fesoterodine 8mg in urgency incontinence and oxybutynin 5mg in voided volume/micturition. For safety, mirabegron, vibegron, solifenacin 5mg, extended-release tolterodine 4mg and extended-release oxybutynin 10mg all showed a better incidence of dry mouth; Compared to placebo, only imidafenacin 0.1mg, showed a significantly increased incidence in hypertension, solifenacin 10mg in urinary tract infection, fesoterodine 4/8mg and controlled release darifenacin 15mg in headache.
Conclusion
Solifenacin showed better efficacy. For safety, most anticholinergics were more likely to cause dry mouth and constipation, while β-adrenergic agonists showed an increased incidence of nasopharyngitis. The choice of therapeutic agent should be tailored to the patient's situation in order to find the best balance between efficacy and safety.
Complete genome sequence of wheat yellow stripe polerovirus, a new polerovirus infecting wheat (Triticum aestivum) in China
Authors: Yan Dankan , han kelei , Chen Ying , Ma Chao , Hu Shuzhen , Zhao Wei , Wang Fang
Published: February 2023

Wheat plants with yellow stripes on their leaves were collected in Tai’an City (Shandong province, China). High-throughput sequencing analysis of the collected plants showed that they were coinfected with wheat leaf yellowing-associated virus (WLYaV) and an unidentified polerovirus. The genome of the unidentified virus, tentatively named “wheat yellow stripe-associated virus” (WYSaV), comprises 5,595 nucleotides and contains six open reading frames (ORFs) initiated by AUG and one ORF initiated by AUA, with a typical polerovirus genome structure. Analysis by sequence alignment showed that WYSaV had the highest sequence identity with wheat yellow dwarf virus (WYDV, a tentative member of the Polerovirus genus), with a nucleotide sequence similarity of 87.3% over the whole genome. Except for P3a and the coat protein (CP), for all deduced proteins between WYSaV and the other poleroviruses, the amino acid identity was < 90%. According to phylogenetic evaluation using the RdRp and CP protein sequences, and the complete genome, WYDV, cereal yellow dwarf virus RPS (CYDV-RPS), CYDV-RPV, and barley yellow dwarf virus-GPV are the phylogenetically closest poleroviruses to WYSaV. Thus, WYSaV is proposed as a new member of the genus Polerovirus.
Monkeypox: A review of epidemiological modelling studies and how modelling has led to mechanistic insight
Authors: Korosec Chapin , Banuet-Martinez Marina , Yang Yang , Jafari Behnaz , Kaur Avneet , Butt Zahid A. , Chen Helen H. , Yanushkevich Svetlana , Moyles Iain R. , Heffernan Jane M.
Published: February 2023

Human monkeypox virus (mpox) is a viral zoonosis belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family that presents with similar symptoms as seen previously in human smallpox patients. mpox is a growing concern internationally with over 80000 cases in non-endemic countries as of December 2022. In this review, we briefly cover the history and origins of mpox and describe its basic virology, noting key differences in mpox viral fitness traits pre and post-2022. We then summarize and critique current knowledge from epidemiological mathematical models, within-host models, and between-host transmission models. We distinguish between models that focus on immunity from vaccination, as well as geography, climatic variables, and animal models. We report various epidemiological parameters, such as the reproduction number R0, in a condensed format for ease of comparison between studies. We focus specifically on how mathematical modelling studies have led to novel mechanistic insight into Monkeypox transmission and pathogenesis. As mpox continues to emerge and is predicted to continue to form subsequent peaks in many historically non-endemic countries, mpox mathematical modelling studies can provide rapid actionable insight into viral dynamics to guide public health measures and mitigation strategies.
Seafloor Geodetic Positioning Models with Diversified Acoustic Delay Estimations Under Different Conditions for Detecting the Sound Speed Variation
Authors: Xue Shuqiang , Yang Yuanxi , Xiao Zhen , Li Jingsen , Yang Wenlong
Published: February 2023

Global Navigation Satellite System–Acoustic (GNSS-A) positioning technique is an important tool for monitoring the submarine tectonic movement and seismic. The submarine positioning accuracy however is seriously affected by the sound speed variation. This contribution investigates the influence of sound speed variation on the seafloor geodetic positioning and proposes diversified acoustic delay models, including two five-parameter models and two three parameter models. It shows that the five-parameter zenith delay model can be degenerated into a three-parameter zenith delay model in the single-point positioning case or under the single-layer sound speed field (SSF) assumption. The proposed zenith delay models are verified by the Japanese opened seafloor geodesy observation-array (SGO-A) data and the sound speed gradient relative to the reference sound speed profile (SSP) is obtained. Experimental tests show that, both the proposed five-parameter zenith delay and three-parameter zenith delay models can achieve a three-dimensional positioning precision at centimeter-level and they can be used to produce a more stable long-term horizontal coordinate time series relative to the GNSS-A ranging combined positioning solver (GARPOS V1.0.0).
Transitioning from the “Three Delays” to a focus on continuity of care: A qualitative analysis of maternal deaths in rural Pakistan and Mozambique
Authors: Vidler Marianne , Kinshella Mai-Lei Woo , Sevene Esperanca , Lewis Gwyneth , Dadelszen Peter , Bhutta Zulfiqar , Group CLIP Working
Published: February 2023

Background: The Three Delays Framework was instrumental in the reduction of maternal mortality leading up to, and during the Millennium Development Goals. However, this paper suggests the original framework might be reconsidered, now that most mothers give birth in facilities, the quality and continuity of the clinical care is of growing importance.
Methods: The paper explores the factors that contributed to maternal deaths in rural Pakistan and Mozambique, using 76 verbal autopsy narratives from the Community Level Interventions for Pre-eclampsia (CLIP) Trial.
Results: Qualitative analysis of these maternal death narratives reveals an interplay of various influences, such as, underlying risks and comorbidities, temporary improvements after seeking care, gaps in quality care in emergencies, convoluted referral systems, and arrival at the final facility in critical condition. Evaluation of these narratives helps to reframe the pathways of maternal mortality beyond a single journey of care-seeking, to update the categories of seeking, reaching and receiving care.
Conclusions: There is a need to reimagine the pioneering “Three Delays Framework” to include focusing on continuity of care and the “Four Critical Connection Points”: (1) between the stages of pregnancy, (2) between families and health care workers, (3) between health care facilities and (4) between multiple care-seeking journeys.
Trial registration: NCT01911494, Date Registered 30/07/2013
Waxholm Space atlas of the rat brain: A 3D atlas supporting data analysis and integration
Authors: Kleven Heidi , Bjerke Ingvild , Clascá Francisco , Groenewegen Hendrik , Bjaalie Jan , Leergaard Trygve
Published: February 2023

Volumetric brain atlases are increasingly used to integrate and analyse diverse experimental neuroscience data acquired from animal models, but until recently a publicly available digital atlas with complete coverage of the rat brain has been missing. Here we present the new Waxholm Space rat brain atlas, a comprehensive open-access volumetric atlas resource. This full brain atlas features annotations of 222 structures, of which 112 are new and 57 revised compared to previous versions. It maps in detail the cerebral cortex, hippocampal region, striatopallidal areas, midbrain dopaminergic system, thalamic cell groups, the auditory system and main fibre tracts. We document the criteria underlying the new annotations and demonstrate how the atlas and related tools and workflows can be used by neuroscientists to support interpretation, integration, analysis, and dissemination of experimental rat brain data.
Epidemiological and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection in China: A retrospective study
Authors: Weng Zhangyan , Zheng Yijuan , Zheng Minghui , Chen Wenhuang , He Haoyi , Ye Xiaoyi , Zheng Youxian , Xie Jianfeng , Zheng Kuicheng , Zhang Jiming , Zhuang Xibin , Su Zhijun , Zhou Yongjun , Yu Xueping , Zhang Huatang
Published: February 2023

Background: A rapid increase in incidence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron variant occurred in Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, China, in March 2022. This study investigated the epidemiological and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (BA.2)-infected patients.
Methods: Epidemiological and clinical data of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infected patients admitted to three designated hospitals in Quanzhou were collected and analyzed.
Results: Overall, 2,541 patients infected with BA.2, comprising 1,060 asymptomatic, 1,287 mild, and 194 moderate infections, were enrolled in this study. The percentage of moderate infections was higher in those aged ≥60 than in those aged <18 and 18-59. The median hospitalization duration was 17 (14-20) days. Among the 2,541 patients, 43.52% had a clear history of close contact. The vaccination rate for coronavirus disease was 87.92%, and the percentage of asymptomatic infections was higher in vaccinated patients than in unvaccinated patients. Moreover, 10.82% with underlying diseases, such as hypertension (5.94%) and diabetes mellitus (3.12%), had a higher percentage of moderate infections than those without underlying diseases. The three most common clinical manifestations among the patients were fever (27.47%), dry cough (25.19%), and sore throat (15.31%). The albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio and lymphocyte count decreased in the cases of mild and moderate infections, while procalcitonin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, interleukin-6, D-dimer, and C4 levels increased. The pulmonary computed tomography findings for moderate infections were generally patchy and ground-glass opacities.
Conclusions: Advanced age, non-vaccination, and underlying comorbid disease are high-risk factors for disease progression in Omicron variant-infected patients, while dynamic monitoring of blood routine parameters, A/G ratio, and inflammatory indicators facilitate the prediction of disease progression.
Structural evidence for direct connectivity between the human precuneus and temporal pole via the fifth subcomponent of the Cingulum.
Authors: Skandalakis Georgios P. , Komaitis Spyridon , Neromyliotis Eleftherios , Drossos Evangelos , Dimopoulos Dimitrios , Hadjipanayis Constantinos G. , Kongkham Paul N. , Zadeh Gelareh , Stranjalis George , Koutsarnakis Christos , Kalyvas Aristotelis
Published: February 2023

Neuro-imaging studies demonstrate simultaneous activation of the human precuneus and temporal pole, both in resting-state conditions and during a diverse array of higher-order functions. Despite remarkable advances in neuroscience research, the precise underlying structural connectivity remains unclear. Here, we investigate the connectivity of the precuneus and temporal pole through fiber micro-dissections in human hemispheres. We show the direct axonal connectivity between the posterior precuneus area POS2 and the areas 35 and TI of the temporal pole via the fifth subcomponent of the cingulum. This finding enhances the neuroanatomical knowledge regarding the connectivity of the posteromedial cortices, facilitates the detailed anatomo-functional integration in normal and pathological brain function, and suggests an axonal connectivity unique within the human brain supporting the differences in neural networks between species.
Chlorophyll-a Concentration in the Salto Grande Reservoir (Americana, Brazil) Estimated by Satellite Images
Authors: Rodrigues Vivian Fernanda Wiesenhutter , Shimabukuro Rafael Kenji Koike , Machado Ronalton Evandro
Published: February 2023

Humankind has a deep relationship with water, which is essential for life, since it is used to meet different human needs; however, human interactions and activities have degraded the quality of water bodies. In this context, monitoring water bodies becomes an essential tool to understand their spatial and temporal variability, as well as to help in decision-making and water resource management. Traditional monitoring, based on sample collection and laboratory analysis, can be considered a costly, one-off process that fails to present the characteristics of the entire water body. Remote sensing techniques can be used complementarily to traditional monitoring, allowing to observe the entire water body while presenting lower costs and short execution time. This study used remote sensing techniques to evaluate the trophic state of the Salto Grande reservoir using Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration as an analysis parameter. Located in the municipality of Americana, São Paulo, Brazil, the Salto Grande reservoir is situated on the Atibaia River, near its mouth, amidst a highly industrialized region with expressive monoculture. This reservoir has a history of degradation over time. Chl-a was estimated based on images from the MSI sensor present on the Sentinel-2 satellite, which underwent atmospheric correction by Sen2Cor software. Four algorithms using spectral band ratios were tested, with both linear and nonlinear adjustments. The values obtained were compared with data from analyses performed by CETESB, with close dates, at the study site and available to the public. The adjusted algorithms presented a correlation above 0.8, while the best adjustments for each algorithm showed a correlation greater than 0.9 and an error rate below 10% and 8 µg/L. Mishra and Mishra’s (2012) NDCI algorithm had the best applicability as it returned only positive values, in contrast to some algorithms, which returned negative Chl-a values. With the resulting values from the selected algorithm, the modified Carlson Trophic State Index was applied, and a high eutrophication index was observed in the reservoir.
The effects of inspiratory muscle training with pulmonary rehabilitation on NSCLC patients during radiation therapy: A pilot clinical study
Authors: Do Junghwa , Lee Seung Hak , Kim Sang Ah , Gelvosa Ma. Nessa , Kim A Hyun , Jeon Jae Yong Jeon
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) with pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) on patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving radiotherapy (RT) have not been reported. This pilot study aimed to determine the effectiveness of IMT with PR on respiratory muscles and exercise capacity of NSCLC patients receiving RT.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 20 patients who underwent RT for NSCLC. The rehabilitation included IMT, stretching, strengthening, and aerobic exercises three times a week for 4 weeks with concurrent RT. IMT training lasted 10 min, consisting of one cycle of 30 breaths using the Powerbreathe KH1 device (POWERbreathe KH1, HaB International Ltd, Southam, UK) in the hospital by a physical therapist. Patients underwent two IMT sessions at home daily at an intensity of approximately 30–50% of the participant’s maximum inspiratory muscle pressure (MIP) using the Threshold IMT tool. We analyzed results from the respiratory muscle strength test, pulmonary function test, 6-min walk test (6MWT), cardiopulmonary function test, cycle endurance test (CET), Inbody test, grip measurement, knee extensor/flexor strength measurement, Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTCQ-C30), and NSCLC 13 (EORTC-LC13).
Results: There were no adverse events during evaluation and IMT with PR. MIP (60.1±25.1 vs 72.5±31.9, p=0.005), 6MWT (439.2±97.1 vs 60.7±97.8, p=0.002), CET (181.39±193.12 vs 123.6±87.6, p=0.001), knee extensor (14.4±5.3 vs 17.4±5, p=0.012), and knee flexor (14.0±5.2 vs 16.9±5.5, p=0.004) significantly improved after IMT with PR.
Conclusion: IMT with PR appears effective on respiratory muscles and exercise capacity without adverse events in NSCLC patients who underwent RT.
Lower heart rate variability, an index of worse autonomic function, is associated with worse beta cell response to a glycemic load in vivo– The Maastricht Study
Authors: Rinaldi Elisabetta , Heide Frank CT , Bonora Enzo , Trombetta Maddalena , Zusi Chiara , Kroon Abraham A , Schram Miranda T , Kallen Carla JH , Wesselius Anke , Bonadonna Riccardo , Mari Andrea , Schalkwijk Casper G , Greevenbroek Marleen MJ , Stehouwer Coen DA
Published: February 2023

Objective
We investigated, using population-based data, whether worse autonomic function, estimated from lower 24-hour heart rate variability (HRV), was associated with beta cell function, assessed from beta cell response during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
Research design and Methods
We used cross-sectional data from The Maastricht Study, a population-based cohort study (N=2,007; age, mean ± SD:60 ± 8 years; 52% men; and 24% with type 2 diabetes). We used linear regression analyses with adjustment for potential confounders (demographic, cardiovascular, and lifestyle factors) to study the associations of time- and frequency-domain HRV (composite scores) with overall beta cell response (estimated from a composite score calculated from: C-peptidogenic index, overall insulin secretion, beta cell glucose sensitivity, beta cell potentiation factor, and beta cell rate sensitivity). In addition, we tested for interaction by sex and glucose metabolism status.
Results
After full adjustment, lower time- and frequency-domain HRV was significantly associated with lower overall beta cell response composite score (standardized beta, -0.055 [-0.098; -0.011] and -0.051 [-0.095; -0.007], respectively). These associations were not modified by sex and there was no consistent pattern of interaction by glucose metabolism status.
Conclusion
The present study found that worse autonomic function, estimated from lower HRV, was associated with worse beta cell function, estimated from a composite score in a population-based sample which covered the entire spectrum of glucose metabolism. Hence, autonomic dysfunction may contribute to beta cell dysfunction and, ultimately, to the alteration of glucose metabolism status from normal glucose metabolism to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Regenerated silk fibroin based on small aperture scaffolds and marginal sealing hydrogel for osteochondral defect repair
Authors: Luo Yinyue , Xiao Menglin , Almaqrami Bushra Sufyan , Kang Hong , Shao Zhengzhong , Chen Xin , Zhang Ying
Published: February 2023

Background
Osteochondral defects pose an enormous challenge with no entirely satisfactory repair strategy to date. In particular, the lateral integration of neocartilage into surrounding native cartilage is a difficult and inadequately addressed problem that determines the success of tissue repair. Herein, a novel design of an integral regenerated silk fibroin (RSF)-based three-layer scaffold combined with a self-setting RSF sealant for osteochondral repair is reported.
Methods
Regenerated silk fibroin (RSF) based on small aperture scaffolds was prepared with n-butanol innovatively. Then, the rabbit knee chondrocytes and bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were cultured on RSF scaffolds, and after induction of chondrogenic differentiation, cell-scaffold complexes strengthened by RSF hydrogel were prepared for in vivo experiments.
Results
A porous small aperture scaffold and RSF sealant exhibiting biocompatibility and good adhesive properties were developed and confirmed to promote chondrocyte migration and differentiation. Importantly, small aperture scaffolds had a larger surface area accommodating more cells and contributed to higher intercellular communication and elastic modulus. An RSF hydrogel was conducted as a medium between the scaffolds and the native tissues and then guided new chondrocytes to crawl towards and replace the degraded materials from the surrounding cartilage. Thus, osteochondral repair and superior lateral integration were achieved in vivo with this composite.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that a new approach of marginal sealing around the RSF cartilage layer of small aperture scaffolds exhibits preeminent repair results as compared to other scaffolds, confirming the ability of this novel graft to facilitate simultaneous regeneration of cartilage-subchondral bone.
Demographic and clinical characteristics associated with anxiety and depressive symptom outcomes in users of a digital mental health intervention incorporating a relational agent
Authors: Chiauzzi Emil , Williams Andre , Mariano Timothy Y. , Pajarito Sarah , Robinson Athena , Kirvin-Quamme Andrew , Forman-Hoffman Valerie
Published: February 2023

Background
Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) may reduce treatment access issues for those experiencing depressive and/or anxiety symptoms. DMHIs that incorporate relational agents may offer unique ways to engage and respond to users and to potentially help reduce provider burden. This study tested WB-LIFE, a DMHI that employs Woebot, a relational agent that delivers evidence-based psychotherapies, among those with baseline clinical levels of depressive or anxiety symptoms. Self-reported depressive and anxiety symptom changes between baseline and end of 8-week intervention, as well as the association between demographic and clinical characteristics and each outcome, were measured
Methods
This exploratory, single-arm, 8-week study of 256 adults yielded non-mutually exclusive subsamples with either clinical levels of depressive or anxiety symptoms at baseline. Week 8 Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8) changes were measured in the depressive subsample (PHQ-8≥10). Week 8 Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) changes were measured in the anxiety subsample(GAD-7≥10). Demographic and clinical characteristics were examined in association with symptom changes via bivariate and multiple regression models adjusted for WB-LIFE utilization. Characteristics included age, sex at birth, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, sexual orientation, employment status, health insurance, baseline levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms, and concurrent psychotherapeutic or psychotropic medication treatments during the study.
Results
Both the depressive and anxiety subsamples were predominantly female, educated, non-Hispanic white, and averaged 38 and 37 years of age, respectively. The depressive subsample had significant reductions in depressive symptoms at Week 8 (mean change= - 7.28, p<0.01); the anxiety subsample had significant reductions in anxiety symptoms at Week 8 (mean change= -7.45, p<0.01). No significant associations were found between sex at birth, age, employment status, educational background and Week 8 symptom changes. Significant associations between depressive and anxiety symptom outcomes and sexual orientation, marital status, concurrent mental health treatment, and baseline symptom severity were found.
Conclusions
The present study suggests early promise for WB-LIFE as an intervention for depression and/or anxiety symptoms. Although exploratory in nature, this study revealed potential user characteristics associated with outcomes that can be investigated in future studies.
Trial Registration
This study was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (#NCT05672745) on 05/01/2023.
Comparison between the mesenteric fixation method(MEFIX) and conventional methods at preventing the occurrence of Petersen’s hernia: A study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Park Jae Kyun , Kim Dae Hwan , Jeon Tae Yong , Jeong Sang Ho , Kim Tae Han , Min Jae Seok , Kim Rock Bum , Lee Young Joon , Park Ji Ho , Son Young Gil , Yoon Ki Young , Seo Kyung Won , Kim Ki Hyun , Kim Yoon Hong , Chae Hyun Dong , Hwang Sun Hui , Lee Si Hak , Chung Jae Hun , Kim Hyoung Il , Park Dong Jin , Kim Kwang Hee , Seo Sang Hyuk , Oh Sung Jin , Lee Woo Yong , Choi Chang In
Published: February 2023

Background

Petersen's hernia, which occurs after minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer, can be reduced by defect closure. This study aimed to demonstrate the incidence of bowel obstruction above Clavien–Dindo classification grade III due to Petersen's hernia between the mesenteric fixation method(MEFIX) and the conventional methods during the 5-year follow-up period after laparoscopic gastric cancer surgery.

Methods

This prospective, single-blind, non-inferiority randomized controlled trial and multicenter study was conducted at hospitals in Korea. Patients with histologically diagnosed gastric cancer of clinical stage I, II, or III who underwent Roux-en-Y or B- II gastrojejunostomy anastomosis after laparoscopic gastrectomy were enrolled in this study. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to two groups: a CLOSURE group that underwent Petersen's defect closure method and a MEFIX group that underwent the mesenteric fixation method.

Discussion

This trial is expected to provide high-level evidence showing that the MEFIX method can quickly and easily close Petersen's defect and reduce postoperative complications compared to the conventional method. It is also expected to be applicable not only after gastric cancer surgery but also after bariatric surgery.

Trial registration

The MEFIX study protocol was registered in htrp://register.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT05105360 (registration date: November 3, 2021)
Unconditional Cash and Family Investments in Infants: Evidence from a Large-Scale Cash Transfer Experiment in the U.S.
Authors: Gennetian Lisa , Duncan Greg , Noble Kimberly , Fox Nathan , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Halpern-Meekin Sarah , Magnuson Katherine
Published: February 2023

Worldwide millions of families with children residing with low or precarious income receive some form of unconditional cash income. Nevertheless economists have limited causal evidence on how families receiving unconditional income would spend those funds. We examine financial and time investments in infants among families living in poverty from a large-scale, multi-site randomized controlled study of monthly unconditional cash. We find increased spending on child-specific goods and mothers’ early-learning activities with their infants. The marginal propensity to consume child-focused items from the cash transfer exceeded that from other income, consistent with the behavioral cues in the design. We find no statistically detectable offsets in household earnings or impacts on pre-registered outcomes related to expenditures, labor supply, childcare or subjective well-being.
JEL: D13, H31, I30, J13, J18, J22
Exam Room Timetabling Using MIP and SMAC
Authors: Agrawal Virupaksh
Published: February 2023

At the end of every academic session, institutions around the world need to schedule final examinations for students. This entails allocating sufficient space for each course that requires it in a manner that minimizes scheduling conflicts for students taking multiple courses. The primary goal is to minimize cost associated with administering these exams-driven by the cost of invigilation staff needed. This paper explores the implementation of an MIP solver (CPLEX) in addition to Sequential Model-based Algorithm Configuration (SMAC) that exhibits potential to replace the current methods-consisting of heuristics and greedy algorithms. The approach produced promising results for both schedule optimality and faster generation, particularly on larger instances. However, due to computational power constraints, there remains a need for further testing on realistically-sized instances.
Shifting the narrative from living at risk to living with risk: Validating and pilot-testing a clinical decision support tool: a mixed methods study
Authors: MacLeod Heather , Veillette Nathalie , Klein Jennifer , Delli-Colli Nathalie , Egan Mary , Giroux Dominique , Kergoat Marie-Jeanne , Gingrich Shaen , Provencher Véronique
Published: February 2023

Background
When there are safety concerns, healthcare professionals (HCPs) tend to overprotect older adults and may disregard their wishes to return or remain at home. A paradigm shift is needed for HCPs to move from labelling older adults as living at risk to helping them live with risk. The Living with Risk: Decision Support Tool (LwR:DST) was developed to support older adults and HCPs with difficult decision-making regarding living with risk. The study objectives were to: 1) validate, and 2) pilot-test the LwR:DST in hospital and community settings.
Methods
The study was conducted across Canada during the pandemic. The LwR:DST’s content was validated with quantitative and qualitative data by: 1) 71 HCPs from hospital and community settings using the Delphi method, and 2) 17 older adults and caregivers using focus groups. HCPs provided feedback on the LwR:DST’s content, format and instruction manual while older adults provided feedback on the LwR:DST’s communication step. The revised LwR:DST was pilot-tested by 14 HCPs in one hospital and one community setting, and 17 older adults and caregivers described their experience of HCPs using this approach with them. Descriptive and thematic analysis were performed.
Results
The LwR:DST underwent two iterations incorporating qualitative and quantitative data provided by HCPs, older adults and caregivers. The quantitative Delphi method data validated the content and the process of the LwR:DST, while the qualitative data provided practical improvements. The pilot-testing results suggest that using the LwR:DST broadens HCPs’ clinical thinking, structures their decision-making, improves their communication and increases their competence and comfort with risk assessment and management. Our findings also suggest that the LwR:DST improves older adults’ healthcare experience by feeling heard, understood and involved.
Conclusions
This revised LwR:DST should help HCPs systematically identify frail older adults’ risks when they remain at or return home and find acceptable ways to mitigate these risks. The LwR:DST induces a paradigm shift by acknowledging that risks are inherent in everyday living and that risk-taking has positive and negative consequences. The challenges involved in integrating the LwR:DST into practice, i.e., when, how and with whom to use it, will be addressed in future research.
Free Triiodothyronine predicts the risk of developing Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Li Weihong , Yang Zhi , Li Shengjian , Jiang Shanshan , Hu Wan , Wan Zhenying , Tu Ping , Duan Peng
Published: February 2023

Purpose Low levels of Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) are associated with poor survival in chronic kidney disease, and the aim of this study was to further assess the relationship between changes in FT3 levels and renal damage in patients with type 2 diabetes based on glomerular and tubular markers. Methods We retrospectively studied 452 type 2 diabetic patients, measured glomerular damage markers (UACR, eGFR) and tubular damage markers (NAG/Cr,β2-MG), analyzed the relationship between FT3 and renal damage by logistic regression models, and plotted restrictive cubic splines. Results 41.6% of subjects had diabetic kidney disease (DKD), and the prevalence of DKD decreased progressively with increasing FT3 levels in the third quartile. Spearman correlation analysis showed that FT3 was negatively associated with UACR, NAG/Cr and β2-MG, while eGFR was positively associated with FT3. Multifactorial analysis, after adjusting for relevant confounders, revealed that compared with the lowest quartile of FT3, the highest quartile reduced the risk of developing urinary albumin (OR = 0.499,95% CI:0.289–0.856), moderate to severe impairment of glomerular filtration rate (OR = 0.106,95% CI:0.032–0.354), renal tubular marker β2 -MG positive (OR = 0.516,95% CI:0.299 to 0.883) and the risk of DKD occurrence (OR = 0.450,95% CI:0.260 to 0.774). In the sample model, FT3 levels below 4.39 pmol/L were associated with an increased risk of glomerular tubule injury and DKD occurrence. Conclusion FT3 is closely associated with glomerular tubular injury and is a protective factor. As FT3 levels (< 4.39 pmol/L) decrease, the risk of developing DKD becomes higher, and FT3 can be used as an independent predictor of developing DKD.
Nature-skin-based multi-responsive controlled-release electroactive scaffolds for integrated melanoma postoperative relapse prevention and wound therapy
Authors: Zheng Manhui , Wang Xuechuan , Zhang Jiamin , Yue Ouyang , Zhang Jingyu , Bai Zhongxue , Jiang Huie , Wen Ling , Liu Xinhua
Published: February 2023

Owing to the high recurrence rate of melanoma, pursuing multifunctional biomaterials with adjuvant therapy functions for full-scale postoperative relapse prevention, wound healing, and real-time postoperative surveillance is an ideal strategy for integrated melanoma treatment. Emerging conductive biomaterials in bioelectronics have exhibited enormous potential as next-generation wound-healing biomaterials. Herein, an intelligent nature-skin-derived multi-responsive controlled-release electroactive scaffold (PADM-MX-Ag-Si@Dox) was nano-engineered by incorporating the functional building blocks of porcine dermal matrix and MXene nanosheets, silver nanowires (AgNWs), and on-demand multiple-response drug-loading microspheres (TSOHSiO2@Dox). The proposed TSOHSiO2@Dox endowed PADM-MX-Ag-Si@Dox with the controlled release property of Dox. Interestingly, the Dox release behavior of the scaffold could be regulated by integrated temperature, pH, and ancillary electrical stimulation. Electrical stimulation simultaneously induced anticarcinogen escape from PADM-MX-Ag-Si@Dox and accelerated wound healing. Meanwhile, PADM-MX-Ag-Si@Dox exhibited outstanding antimicrobial and electrophysiological activities, providing a strong foundation for wound healing elevation and real-time postoperative tumor surveillance. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo experiments proved that PADM-MX-Ag-Si@Dox in synergy with electrical stimulation achieved anticipatory integration of melanoma postoperative relapse prevention, wound healing, and real-time postoperative surveillance, demonstrating an effective therapeutic strategy for postoperative cancer adjuvant therapy and leading to new precision medical care.
Prevention of invasive ventilation (PRiVENT) - a prospective, mixed-methods interventional, multicentre study with a parallel comparison group: study protocol
Authors: Michels Julia D. , Meis Jan , Sturm Noemi , Bornitz Florian , Schumann Selina , Weis Aline , Neetz Benjamin , Bentner Martina , Forstner Johanna , Litke Nicola , Wensing Michel , Erdmann Stella , Grobe Thomas , Frerk Timm , Kempa Axel , Neurohr Claus , Schneider Armin , Müller Michael , Herth Felix JF , Szecsenyi Joachim , Trudzinski Franziska C.
Published: February 2023

Background
Invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is a standard therapy for intensive care patients with respiratory failure. With increasing age and multimorbidity the number of patients rises, who cannot be weaned from IMV, leading to impaired quality of life and high costs. In addition, human resources are tied up in the care of those patients.
Methods
The PRiVENT intervention is a prospective, mixed-methods interventional, multicentre study with a parallel comparison group selected from insurance claims data of the health insurer Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse Baden-Württemberg (AOK-BW) conducted in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, over 24 months. Four weaning centres supervise 40 intensive care units (ICUs), that are responsible for patient recruitment. The primary outcome, successful weaning from IMV, will be evaluated using a mixed logistic regression model. Secondary outcomes will be evaluated using mixed regression models.
Discussion
The overall objective of the PRiVENT project is the evaluation of strategies to prevent long-term IMV. Additional objectives aim to improve weaning expertise in and cooperation with the adjacent Intensive Care Units.
Trial registration number:
This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05260853).
Analysis of risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients complicated with hypertension and establishment of prediction model
Authors: 贯中 田 , Muhadasi Tuerxunyiming , Li Shan , Wang Wei
Published: February 2023

Purpose
To analyze the risk factors of adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated with hypertension in Jiangsu province, and establish an individualized risk prediction model of hypertension.
Methods
We analyzed 485 newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus from 2020 to 2021 in Lianshui County People's Hospital, Huai'an City, Jiangsu province, China. According to the ratio of 7:3, they were randomly divided into training group and validation group. After primary screening by univariate analysis, the predicted variables were determined by multivariate analysis. The nomogram model of hypertension was constructed and evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve), calibration curve and decision curve analysis(DCA).
Results
This study investigated 485 people, and the prevalence of hypertension was 56.90%. Residential area, systolic blood pressure, family history of diabetes and uric acid are independent risk factors of hypertension among adults in Jiangsu province (P < 0.05). The area under ROC curve (AUC) of hypertension risk prediction model in training group and validation group were 0.7401 and 0.7392, respectively, and the calibration curves showed excellent consistency. DCA shows that the training group shows a great positive rate of return in the risk range of 13%~57% and 58%~100%.
Conclusions
The prediction model based on the related risk factors of hypertension among adult residents in Jiangsu province has excellent accuracy and clinical application value. It can provide a more intuitive way to assess the risk of diabetic patients with hypertension, and has guiding significance for the prevention and treatment of hypertension.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Role-Playing in Debating Repatriation of Artworks in Active Learning Art History Classes
Authors: Hutson James , Olsen Trent
Published: February 2023

The calls for the repatriation of looted or stolen artworks to host countries continues to grow. With the return of the Benin Bronzes in 2022, renewed calls for the return of the Elgin Marbles from the British Museum have amplified. At the same time, the death of Queen Elizabeth II raises further debate over repatriation and the lingering effects of colonialization. Nevertheless, effectively facilitating such a debate in class has increased in challenge with the lingering effects of the pandemic, the resistance of Gen Z to groupwork and interaction, and elevated levels of anxiety reported among college-age students. One approach that has seen success in face-to-face classes with regards to successful facilitating of debates is the active learning strategy of role playing. Role playing games (RPGs) have the ability to allow students to take on the persona of another to avoid directly confronting the thoughts and opinions of others. At the same time, this approach has been limited only to synchronous activities. This study seeks to investigate the applicability of role-playing within a virtual learning environment (VLE) and whether the control over individual student appearance with avatars and being immersed in a relevant historical environment improves student engagement, immersion, presence, and learning outcomes. Results demonstrate a positive correlation between the activities and understanding diverse perspectives, the ethics involved in cultural repatriation, and lowered anxiety and improved comfort in engaging in groupwork.
Cell-specific and shared enhancers control a high-density multi-gene locus active in mammary and salivary glands
Authors: Hennighausen Lothar , Lee Hye Kyung , Willi Michaela , Liu Chengyu
Published: February 2023

Regulation of high-density loci harboring genes with different cell-specificities remains a puzzle. Here we investigate a locus that evolved through gene duplication1 and contains eight genes and 20 candidate regulatory elements, including a super-enhancer. Five genes are expressed in mammary glands and account for 50% of all mRNAs during lactation, two are salivary-specific and one has dual specificity. We probed the function of eight candidate enhancers through experimental mouse genetics. Deletion of the super-enhancer led to a 98% reduced expression of Csn3 and Fdcsp in mammary and salivary glands, respectively, and Odam expression was abolished in both tissues. The other three casein genes were only marginally affected. Notably, super-enhancer activity requires the additional presence of a distal Csn3-specific enhancer. Our work identifies an evolutionary playground on which regulatory duality of a multigene locus was attained through an ancestral super-enhancer active in mammary and salivary tissue and gene-specific mammary enhancers.
Beneficial effects of Chinese patent medicine ZhengQi tablet on treating the mild COVID-19
Authors: Chen Bowu , Zheng Wenlan , Yan Xiaji , Zhang Jue , Shi Lei , Zhou Wei , Zhang Xin , Li Man , Gao Yueqiu
Published: February 2023

Objectives:
This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Chinese patent medicine called ZhengQi tablet in the treatment of mild COVID-19 patients.
Methods:
A prospective cohort trial was carried out in the mobile cabin hospital of City Footprint Hall in Shanghai (ChiCTR2200058693). A total of 800 mild COVID-19 patients were enrolled in this clinical trial and assigned to receive 7 days of treatment with ZhengQi tablet (ZQT group) or TCM placebo (control group) by oral administration per day.
The nucleic acid conversion rate of SARS-CoV-2 was the percentage of subjects who got two negative results of Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) at a 24-hour interval out of the total number. The primary clinical indicators included the nucleic acid conversion rate of SARS-CoV-2 and the incidence rate of common COVID-19. The secondary ones, including the time of negative conversion of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and the hospitalization duration were evaluated.
Results:
A total of 850 mild COVID-19 patients were recruited, and 800 patients were qualified to undergo the clinical trial, with 423 patients assigned for ZQT and 377 patients for TCM placebo. Finally, 390 patients in the ZQT group and 368 patients in the control group completed the follow-up assessments. The nucleic acid conversion rates in ZQT group at 2-day, 3-day and 4-day post-treatment were higher than that in the control group (27.9%vs.9.2%, P<0.001; 38.2%vs.16.6%, P<0.001; 45.4%vs.36.1%, P=0.010). There were no patients who developed into a severe disease. The median time of negative conversion in ZQT group was higher than that in the control group (4[2-6]vs.5[4-6]days, P=0.001). The median hospitalization durations were not different between ZQT group and the control group (5[3-7]vs.6[5-6]days , P=0.065). In terms of the improvement of clinical symptoms, the difference in diarrhea between two groups was statistically significant (100.0%vs.83.3%, P=0.026). There was no significant difference in the improvement of other clinical symptoms. No serious adverse events were reported in both groups.
Conclusions:
ZhengQi tablet showed beneficial effectiveness in treating patients with mild COVID-19 viaimproving the nucleic acid conversion rate of SARS-CoV-2 and shortening the time of negative conversion.