bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of Au, Al, and Ag metal based SPR sensor using nickel and antimonene to enhance the sensitivity in visible range
Authors: Pandey Sushant , Singh Sachin , Lohia Pooja , Yadav Rajesh Kumar , Dwivedi D.K.
Published: August 2022

In this simulation work, comparative study of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) based sensor designed with gold (Au), Aluminium (Al), Silver (Ag) are numerically investigated to improve the performance parameter of device using Ni-Antimonene layer in the visible range of light at wavelength of 633nm. In this device configuration, different metals (Ag/Au/Al), a diamagnetic material (Fe2O3), Nickel (Ni) and 2D material Antimonene (Sb) is used with CaF2 glass prism using Kretschmann configuration with angle interrogation method. The angle interrogation method is used to examine the performance of the device. The performance parameters of SPR sensor such as sensitivity, detection accuracy (DA), quality factor (QF) has been calculated. The thickness of metals (Au/Al/Ag) and number of different material thickness has been optimized by using genetic algorithms to improve the performance of device. The present study reveals that Ag metal based SPR Sensor exhibit a higher sensitivity as compared to Al and Au based SPR sensor at 55 nm of thickness. At 55nm thickness of Ag minimum reflectance curve has been obtained in comparison with Au and Al. The studied multilayer configuration of SPR sensor device using different metal Au/Al/Ag with Fe2O3, Ni and Antimonene in presence of glass prism, the maximum sensitivity 3100/RIU is obtained in case of Ag. The sensitivities of Au and Al metals are 660RIU-1, 2040RIU-1 respectively which is less in comparison to Ag metal. The different performance parameter of SPR sensor such as sensitivity, full width at half maximum (FWHM) value, DA, figure of merit (FoM), limit of detection (LoD) is calculated for all three metals but in the case of Ag performance is good compared to Au and Al. The penetration depth (PD) 110.5nm and 3D plot of transverse electric (TM) field intensity have also been plotted. The proposed SPR sensor using Ag metal with highest sensitivity value has capability to detect the different liquid analytes in the field of biosensing application with large uses in biomedical field in visible range.
Macroeconomic determinants of balance of payments performance in selected African countries
Authors: Abille Adamu Braimah , Meçik Oytun
Published: August 2022

Most African countries are open and are still opening up for international trade such that they are signatories to various trade agreements such as the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the EU, and Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), among others. However, these countries face a common persistent balance of payment deficit challenges, but the existing literature investigates this problem at specific country levels. Meanwhile, African countries are also rapidly transitioning towards economic integration with the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) to deepen intra-Africa trade. Therefore, for unionized policy proposition purposes, this study seeks to investigate the determinants of the balance of payments performance of African countries as a group based on panel data from 1990 to 2020 for 33 of these countries. For robustness checks, the system-GMM, the Random, and Fixed effects models are employed for estimating the determinants of BOP chosen based chiefly on the MABOP theory. The results show that domestic income, trade openness, and the broad money supply are the critical determinants of BOP performance in Africa. Further, the findings do not confirm the domestic income growth-BOP performance trade-off hypothesis, and an inverted U-shape rather than J-curve phenomenon is observed for Africa relative to the exchange rate. Based on the findings, the study recommends inter-alia that, African countries pursue value-creation-oriented investment, import substitution industrialization, as well as zero central bank budgetary financing policies to improve their BOP performances.
Multidisciplinary ocular and periocular cancers meetings: implementation in a tertiary referral center and analysis over a 12-months period
Authors: Savino Gustavo , Piccinni Fabrizio , Pagliara Monica Maria , Sammarco Maria Grazia , Caputo Carmela Grazia , Moro Alessandro , Barbera Giorgio , Tagliaferri Luca , Fionda Bruno , Schinzari Giovanni , Rossi Ernesto , Zagaria Luca , Peris Ketty , Stefani Alessandro Di , Musarra Teresa , Cefaro Luca Ausili , Martucci Matia , Blasi Maria Antonietta
Published: August 2022

Purpose The complexity of multimodal approaches in cancer management has lately led to the establishment of multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTBs) to define targeted, patient-centered treatment strategies. However, few data are available regarding the application of this approach in Ocular Oncology. The Authors analyze the implementation and outcomes of a trained MDTB in a tertiary ocular oncology referral center. Methods A retrospective descriptive analysis of MDTB meetings of patient with ocular and periocular cancers, over a 12-months period, was carried out. Data were grouped by main site involved, topics discussed and final clinical decisions therefore taken. Meetings were held by a constant ‘Core team’ or – when required – by a broader ‘Extended team’. Results During the observational period 86 cases were discussed. In 27 patients ocular surface tissues were involved (31%), in 25 patients orbital tissues (29%), in 22 patients eyelids (26%), and in 12 patients intraocular tissues (14%). In 13 cases (15%) naïve or referred new patients, in 34 cases (40%) imaging or histopathologic reports and in 39 cases (45%) treatment plans were discussed. Regarding final decisions, a treatment plan was scheduled in 47 cases (55%) and a diagnostic ascertainment was required in 27 patients (31%); locally advanced and/or systemic diseases were referred or teamed up with other specialists in 12 cases (14%). Conclusions Ocular Oncology multidisciplinary team, by sharing expertise of different specialists, ensures a comprehensive evaluation of patients improving the accuracy of diagnosis and staging upon which planning a proper treatment. Further studies are needed to assess if this approach may also improve the outcomes and prognosis of patients.
Quality Management System Implementation Status and Its Associated Factors Among Clinical Staffs at Governmental Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Getachew Yeworkwuha , Mekuria Mulugeta , Ketsela Admasu , Gebremariam Zewdu Minwuyelet , Kebede Mebratu Abraha
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Quality management system is a set of coordinated activities to direct and control an organization in order to continually improve the effectiveness and efficiency of its performance. So, information about the status of health sector quality management system implementation is necessary. However, there is limited information about the quality management system implementation in the study area as well as at national level.Objective: the aim of this study is to assess quality management system implementation and its associated factors at governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 health care providers working in public hospitals in Addis Ababa. Simple random technique was used to select both the study settings and study participants. Data were collected by using structured written questionnaire after obtaining written consent from the respondents. The collected data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS Version 25. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was done. Variables which had p-value <0.05 at 95%CI were considered as statistically significant association with dependent variable in multivariate analysis. Result was presented in text, table and figures. Result: A total of 422 study participants were participated in the study with the response rate 100%. The mean age of the study participants was 31.46 (SD=5.77) years. The majority (44.5%) of the study participants were below 30 years of age and 55.0% were female by sex. This study revealed that nearly 52% of quality management system were not implemented in the selected health facilities. Being 35 years and above (AOR =1.99) in age, ever heard about QMS (AOR 1.56) by the staff, and those staff knows the availability of QMS (AOR= 2.31) were among variables that identified as predictors of QMS implementation in the study area.Conclusion and recommendation; This study concluded that the level of QMS implementation in the current study area is suboptimal. Age of the study participants, previous hearing about QMS, and knows the availability of QMS were among variables that identified as predictors of QMS implementation in the study area. Therefore, health facilities are recommended to educate their staff about QMS implementation.
Present and future: the effects and possible solutions of microplastics in the marine/aquatic environment
Authors: Sharma Anuj , Prakash Sanchu , B.R Malavika , Mathew Meril Mary , Arrigo Federica , Lakshmi Sreeja , Elumalai Preetham , Freitas Rosa , Faggio Caterina
Published: August 2022

Anthropogenic activities have degraded the marine ecosystem badly, among which microplastic (MPs) is the primary cause. The use of MPs is increasing at extraordinary haste while the recycling and reuse are very low. They are dumped in water bodies that sequentially enter the marine ecosystem. Recently scientists have observed the presence of MPs in various tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract and some immune organs. The major problem arises when it affects the human population severely. The consumption of MPs-affected fish cause accumulation in the food chain resulting in biomagnification. It affects human health by interfering with the gut microbiome, immune response, etc. We can decrease the impact of MPs by reducing their production and detecting them in aqua-consuming organisms. There are different techniques to diagnose the concentration of MPs inside marine organisms before processing. Removal of the gut of marine food organisms before consumption is also an excellent way to reduce the impact of MPs on health, but it is not possible for small fish. So, some limits should be applied to impose the production of MPs and enhance the use of biodegradable products for human health considerations. Some protocols should be set on the boundary of MPs’ concentration for fish marketing and processing.
Alteration of gut microbiota in polycystic ovary syndrome patients and the correlated clinical parameters: a cross-sectional analysis study from Chinese women
Authors: Huang Jianqin , Su Chunlin , Zhang Xiaojin , Dai Ruoxi , Jiang Liwen , Zhang Tingting , Sun Yan , Zhu Zhiling
Published: August 2022

Purpose
To investigate gut microbiota in patients with PCOS and explore their relationships with metabolic and endocrine parameters.
Methods
The fecal samples obtained from patients with PCOS (n = 90) and healthy women without PCOS (n = 30) were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Anthropometry parameters of all subjects were measured and bloods were collected to detect endocrine, biochemical indexes and brain-gut peptides. Spearman correlation between 31 clinical parameters and 31 CAGs was performed to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and PCOS phenotype.
Results
Compared to the healthy controls, women with PCOS showed significant higher levels of weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, WHR, LH, LH/FSH, E2 and T. The PCOS group owned lower richness than the control both in PD whole tree and sobs indexes. There was no significance in β diversity between the two groups. LDA analysis showed that Bacteroides coprocola, Lachnoclostridium, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, Veillonella, Sutterella wadsworthensis, Megasphaera micronuciformis, Clostridium butyricum and Paraprevotella xylaniphila were the dominant bacteria in the PCOS patients. CAG 6 and 19, which were enriched in PCOS group, showed a positive correlation with the obesity, inflammation and hyperlipemia but a negative correlation with the Ghrelin and 5-HT. CAG18, 21, 25, 26 and 27 were enriched in controls but an opposite trend.
Conclusion
Diversity and abundance of gut microbiota decreased in patients with PCOS, which presented a negative correlation with the Ghrelin and 5-HT and positively connected to metabolic disorder and inflammation. The alteration of gut microflora might be an important pathological factor in the PCOS.
The effect of CO2 in the feed stream of TRM process compared to the partial oxidation of methane.
Authors: Soares Auta , Roseno Karina T. C. , Giudicci Reinaldo , Schmal Martin
Published: August 2022

In this work, we studied the effect of CO2 in the feed stream of the TRM process performance of nickel supported on LaFeO3 perovskite for hydrogen production compared to the POM reaction. The perovskite and nickel supported on LaFeO3 were synthesized and characterized by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA/DTA), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Programmed Reduction Temperature (TPR). The catalytic tests were carried out in temperatures varying from 700 to 800°C with feed flow of 350 cm3/min and 200 cm3/min for TRM and POM, respectively. The hydrogen selectivity for the tri-reforming was 78%, while for the partial oxidation reaction, only 55% H2 at 700°C. Results showed that the hydrogen selectivity for the Ni/LaFeO3 catalyst is significantly higher for the tri-reforming process, suggesting that CO2 enhanced the hydrogen selectivity compared to the partial oxidation of methane. Analyses by Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetric calculations showed structural modifications of the catalysts after the reaction. The Raman spectrum showed segregated NiO and Fe3O4 and low carbon formation at 700°C. The proposed mechanism suggests methane and oxygen adsorbed preferentially on metallic Ni0 sites and CO2 on Fe2O3 sites.
L- Arginine and Lisinopril supplementation protects against sodium fluoride-induced nephrotoxicity and hypertension by suppressing mineralocorticoid receptor and angiotensin converting enzyme 3 activity
Authors: Ajibade Temitayo Olabisi , Awodele Olusola Adedayo , Tijani Monsuru Oladunjoye , Adejumobi Olumuyiwa Abiola , Adetona Moses Olusola , Oyagbemi Ademola Adetokunbo , Adedapo Aduragbenro Deborah , Omobowale Temitayo Olutayo , Aro Abimbola Obemisola , Ola-Davies Olufunke Eunice , Saba Adebowale Benard , Adedapo Adeolu Alex , Nkadimeng Sanah Malomile , McGaw Lyndy Joy , Kayoka-Kabongo Prudence Ngalula , Oguntibeju Oluwafemi Omoniyi , Yakubu Momoh Audu
Published: August 2022

Sodium fluoride (NaF) is one of the neglected environmental toxicants that has continued to silently cause toxicity to both humans and animals. NaF is universally present in water, soil and the atmosphere. The persistent and alarming rate of increase in cardiovascular and renal diseases and disorders caused by chemicals such as sodium fluoride (NaF) in mammalian tissues have led to the use of various drugs for the treatment of these diseases. This study aims at evaluating the renoprotective and antihypertensive effects of L- Arginine against NaF-induced nephrotoxicity. Thirty male Wistar rats (150–180 g) were used in this study. The rats were randomly divided into five groups of six rats each as Control, NaF (300 ppm), NaF + L- Arginine (100 mg/kg), NaF + L- Arginine (200 mg/kg), and NaF + Lisinopril (10 mg/kg), respectively; orally for eight days. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry of renal angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and mineralocorticoid receptor (MCR) were performed. Markers of renal damage, oxidative stress, antioxidant defence system, and blood pressure parameters were determined. L- Arginine and Lisinopril significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated the hypertensive effects of NaF. The systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure of the treated groups were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced compared with the hypertensive group. This finding was concurrent with significantly increased serum bioavailability of nitric oxide in the hypertensive treated with and Lisinopril. Also, there was significant reduction in the level of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine in the serum of the hypertensive rats treated with L- arginine and Lisinopril. There was significant (p < 0.05) reduction in markers of oxidative stress such as malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl and concurrent increase in the levels of antioxidant enzymes in the kidney of hypertensive rats treated with L arginine and Lisinopril. The results of this study suggest that L- Arginine and and Lisinopril normalized high blood pressure, reduced oxidative stress, reduced the expression of renal angiotensin converting enzyme and mineralocorticoid receptor and improved nitric oxide production. Thus, L- Arginine holds promise as a potential therapy against hypertension and renal damage.
Effect of preheating during laser metal deposition on the properties of laminated bending dies
Authors: Joghan Hamed Dardaei , Hahn Marlon , Tekkaya A. Erman
Published: August 2022

Metal laminated tooling provides a fast and cheap manufacturing concept. In this study, laser metal deposition (LMD) is used for reducing and eliminating the stair step effect in a metal laminated bending die. A systematical analysis of the effect of preheating of the laminae on the surface quality and mechanical properties of the bending die is performed. Ferritic steel sheets (S355 MC) with a thickness of 2 mm are laser cut and stacked up to manufacture the laminated bending die with a radius of 6 mm. The sheets are joined and the stair steps are filled with LMD with stainless steel powder 316L-Si. The initial temperature of the tool sheets (substrates), beside room temperature, is elevated up to 300 °C. The effect of the preheating on the surface roughness, shape deviation, hardness, and residual stresses of the die are investigated. The mean height of the surface increases by 59% at elevated temperatures. However, the tensile residual stress parallel to the weld direction at the middle of the deposited area decreases only around 25%. The functionality of the forming tools manufactured by this method is proven by bending of DC06 and HC380LA sheets.
Rosiglitazone alleviates LPS-induced endometritis via suppression of TLR4-mediated NF-κB activation
Authors: Bao Hongchu , Qu Qinglan , Cong Jianxiang , He Shunzhi , Zhao Dongmei , Zhao Huishan , Yin Shuyuan , Ma Ding
Published: August 2022

Endometritis is a common reproductive system disease that seriously affects the reproductive health of women of childbearing age. Rosiglitazone (RGZ) is known to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The effect of RGZ on the treatment of endometritis has not been reported. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of RGZ on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endometritis and to explore its possible mechanism of action. Using LPS-induced endometritis mice as a model, the preventive and therapeutic effects of RGZ on endometrial inflammation were explored. Histopathology revealed that RGZ significantly attenuated LPS-induced endometritis in C57BL/6 mice. The anti-inflammatory effects of RGZ and possible related signaling pathways were investigated in vitro using human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). The results of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis showed that RGZ pretreatment could inhibit the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and its downstream activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Collectively, these results suggest that RGZ may inhibit LPS-induced endometritis through the TLR4-mediated NF-κB pathway.
Whole genome analysis of Enterobacter cloacae Rs-2 and screening of genes related to plant-growth promotion
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Wu Zhansheng , Xiang Huichun , Zhu Shuangxi , Zhang Ziyan , Li Xueping , He Yanhui , Wang Jianwen
Published: August 2022

The genus Enterobacter is widely recognized for its biotechnology potential in improving soil environment and crop growth promoting. To further explore these biotechnological potentials, we sequenced and analyzed the whole genome of Enterobacter cloacae Rs-2. The analysis showed that the total length of Rs-2 genome was 6,965,070,514 bp, GC content was 55.80%; The annotation results of GO and COG databases showed that the genome contains a variety of growth-promoting genes, such as iscU, glnA, glnB (nitrogen fixation); iucABCD (siderophore synthesis) and fepA, fcuA, fhuA, and pfeA, etc. (siderophore transport); ipdC (secreted IAA) and gcd, pqqBCDEF (dissolved phosphorus), etc. The application of Rs-2 as a soil inoculant in the pot experiment increased the average fresh weight of radish shoots and roots by 65.76% and 71.60%, respectively, the length of roots increased by 68.33%, and the chlorophyll content in the leaves also increased effectively. In addition, the total phosphorus content of shoots and roots was increased by 20.0% and 32.8%, respectively. This study proved the plant growth-promoting ability of Rs-2 at the molecular level through genetic screening and analysis, which provided guidance for the further improvement of the strain, and laid a foundation for its application in agricultural production.
Effects of omega-3 supplementation as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy on periodontal parameters in chronic periodontitis patients: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Maybodi Fahimeh Rashidi , Fakhari Mahsa , Tavakoli Fatemeh
Published: August 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy on periodontal parameters in patients with chronic periodontitis (CP). Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 30 patients with moderate to severe generalized CP. All patients received standard non-surgical periodontal therapy, and were randomly divided into two groups of intervention and control (n=15). The intervention group was asked to use 1000 mg omega-3 soft-gels daily while the control group used placebo soft-gels for 3 months. Clinical attachment loss (CAL), probing depth (PD), and bleeding index (BI) were recorded at baseline (before the intervention) and after 3 months. The two groups were compared regarding the clinical parameters by t-test (alpha=0.05). Results: All three clinical parameters significantly decreased in both groups at 3 months compared with baseline (P=0.001). The improvement in PD and CAL in the intervention group was significantly greater than that in the control group (P=0.001); however, the difference in BI was not significant between the two groups (P=0.283). Conclusion: Omega-3 supplementation for 3 months as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy significantly improved the clinical parameters in CP patients.
ESG Ratings, Monetary Policy Uncertainty and Bond issuance Premium
Authors: Zhang Chunqiang , Gao Lu , Wang Wennbing , Hao Dayu , Wang Qinwen
Published: August 2022

Existing studies generally recognize the critical role played by macro monetary policy, of which the uncertainty will increase corporate bond issuance premiums at a micro level. However, relatively little is known about these relationships from the perspective of non-financial information in corporation. So this study set out to do further exploration. We use the database to obtain information, including the bond issuance of A-share listed corporations in China during 2015 to 2020. The findings suggest that high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings from listed corporations significantly weaken the positive correlation between monetary policy uncertainty and bond issuance premiums. Specifically, it has a positive information pricing effect on China's primary debt issuance market, as well as a mitigating impact on macro financial policy risk. We also find, through further mechanistic studies, that ESG ratings are more helpful in undermining the impact of monetary policy uncertainty on bond issuance premiums in the context of higher financial information quality. Our findings are conducive to enriching the research framework of the economic consequences of ESG ratings, meaningfully influencing the growing literature that exposed the mechanism of bond issuance premiums, and further, verifying the interaction of information at different levels (macro vs micro) in asset pricing.
Neutrophil CD64 index as a superior indicator for monitoring bacterial infection and evaluating antibiotic therapy: a case control study
Authors: Gao Yanting , Lin Lihui , Zhao Jinyan , Peng Xia , Li Li
Published: August 2022

Background
Neutrophil CD64 (nCD64) index has been widely studied as an indication of bacteria-infected diseases, but the exact usage of nCD64 index in monitoring infections remains debated. So this study aims to investigate the functionality of nCD64 index in tracking infections’ progression and evaluating antibiotic therapy.
Methods
160 participants (36 healthy controls, 34 culture-negative patients, 56 respiratory tract infected patients, and 34 bloodstream infected patients) were recruited and divided into groups. Data on nCD64 index, T lymphocyte subsets, and conventional indicators, including white blood cell count, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, procalcitonin, and C-reactive protein, were tested and compared.
Results
Bacteria-infected patients had significantly higher nCD64 indexes (p < 0.05), especially patients with both bloodstream and respiratory tract infections. The nCD64 index could identify infected patients from culture-negative patients or controls, which conventional indicators cannot achieve. We followed up with 24 infected patients and found that their nCD64 indexes were promptly down-regulated after effective antibiotic therapy (3.16 ± 3.01 vs. 1.20 ± 1.47, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
The nCD64 index is a sensitive indicator for clinical diagnosis of bacterial infection, especially in monitoring infection and evaluating antibiotics’ efficacy. Therefore, nCD64 has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and provide rapid feedback on monitoring disease progression in infected patients.
Effect of fish downstream supply chain on wealth creation: the case of tambatinga in the Brazilian Midnorth
Authors: Gilson Florent , New Michael Bernard , Rodrigues Laurindo Andre , Valenti Wagner Cotroni
Published: August 2022

We describe the downstream supply and value chains originating from commercial tambatinga farming in Midnorth Brazil. We assessed how farm size affects intermediaries and job creation, income generation and the number of wealth beneficiaries. We surveyed 16 commercial farms from 0.1 to 220 ha and their supply chains. To compare wealth creation and the number of beneficiaries we established a baseline annual production of 550 t. Labor hours per tonne tended to rise in medium and extra-large farms. There were two main types of fish downstream supply chains: small farms selling their fish directly to consumers and large farms relying on intermediary trading, where gross revenue was spread among the different parts of the supply chain. Large supply chain stakeholders enhanced net income, typically through supermarket sales. However, the few farms and intermediaries involved resulted in low, poorly distributed, wealth creation. Intermediary trading through markets resulted in high global wealth creation but incomes below the minimum salary of most market sellers. Market sellers shipping from the wholesale market showed improved income. Fish trading undertaken by small farms produced the best gross revenue per traded fish, providing considerable wealth creation, especially in the case of selling at consumers’ homes and markets. This supply chain also permitted good wealth distribution. Net incomes of self-employed farmers exceeded the regional minimum salary by a factor of 3 to 5. Direct selling was thus more appropriate for lifting people out of poverty.
The efficacy of integrated hepatitis C virus treatment in relieving fatigue in people who inject drugs: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vold Jørn Henrik , Chalabianloo Fatemeh , Løberg Else-Marie , Aas Christer F. , Lim Aaron G. , Vickerman Peter , Johansson Kjell Arne , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: August 2022

BackgroundMost people who inject drugs (PWIDs) suffer from severe fatigue, and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may play a role in this. However, there is scarce evidence about interventions that alleviate fatigue among PWIDs. The present study investigated the effect of integrated HCV treatment on fatigue in this population compared to the effect of standard HCV treatment. MethodsThis multi-center, randomized controlled trial evaluated fatigue as a secondary outcome of integrated HCV treatment (the INTRO-HCV trial). From May 2017 to June 2019, 276 participants in Bergen and Stavanger, Norway, were randomly assigned to receive integrated and standard HCV treatment. Integrated treatment was delivered in eight decentralized outpatient opioid agonist therapy clinics and two community care centers; standard treatment was delivered in specialized infectious disease outpatient clinics at referral hospitals. Fatigue was assessed prior to treatment and 12 weeks after treatment using the nine-item Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS-9). We applied a linear mixed model to evaluate the impact of integrated HCV treatment on changes in FSS-9 (ΔFSS-9) sum scores.ResultsAt baseline, the mean FSS-9 sum score was 46 for participants on integrated HCV treatment and 41 for those on standard treatment. In the intention-to-treat analysis, integrated HCV treatment reduced the FSS-9 scores significantly better than standard treatment (ΔFSS-9: ­–2.7, 95% confidence interval (CI): –5.0;–0.4). No similar effect was found in the per-protocol analysis (ΔFSS-9: –1.0, 95% CI: –3.8;1.7). ConclusionFatigue is a common symptom among PWIDs. Integrated HCV treatment is superior, or at least equal to standard HCV treatment in improving fatigue. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov.no NCT03155906, 16/05/2017.
Dual Privacy-Preserving Lightweight Navigation System for Vehicular Networks
Authors: Yao Yingying , Chang Xiaolin , Liu Jiqiang , Li Lin , Wang Hong
Published: August 2022

As an indispensable part of intelligent transportation system, a traffic-sensitive navigation system can assist drivers in avoiding traffic congestion by providing navigation services. The navigation service provider (NSP) utilizes road condition information from nearby vehicles collected by roadside units (RSUs) to guide a vehicle through an optimal route provided by the navigation services. This paper mainly focuses on tackling three key issues in such navigation system. Firstly, it is essential to ensure the privacy of the vehicles’ personal identifiable information (PII). Secondly, the location, start point destination and route of the vehicle should not be leaked to RSUs and also should not be linked to its PII by RSUs and NSP. Thirdly, the process of vehicles obtaining the navigation services should be lightweight. Because of such problems, this paper proposes a dual privacy-preserving lightweight navigation system for vehicular networks through designing a novel signature scheme and combining other cryptographic primitives to keep dual privacy including PII and route related information. And the correctness analysis of the proposed system, security proof of the designed signature scheme adopted in the proposed system, and privacy analysis of the system are thoroughly provided. In addition, the performance of the proposed system is evaluated and compared with the existing systems to illustrate that the proposed system is more efficient than the existing systems.
Gut microbiota alteration after cholecystectomy contributes to post-cholecystectomy diarrhea via bile acids stimulating colonic serotonin
Authors: Xu Ya-Yun , Wang Jianfa , Wu Xubo , Jing Hui , Zhang Shilong , Hu Zhiqiu , Rao Longhua , Chang Qimeng , Wang Li-Shun , Zhang Ziping
Published: August 2022

Post-cholecystectomy diarrhea (PCD) is highly prevalent among post-cholecystectomy outpatients and gut microbiota alteration is correlated with it. However, whether fecal bacteria alteration contributes to diarrhea are unrevealed. Herein, humanized gut microbiome mice model was established and PCD mice exhibited enhanced gastrointestinal motility and elevated fecal water content. In analyzing gut microbiota, tryptophan metabolism was enriched in PCD microbiome. Then, overabundant serotonin, along with elevated biosynthesis and reduced reuptake genes, and highly-expressed 5-HT receptors (5-HTR) in colon of PCD mice were found, but not in small intestine. Notably, diarrheal phenotypes in PCD mice were depleted by Tph1 inhibitor and 5-HTRs antagonists. Furthermore, increased PCD microbial secondary bile acids (BAs) metabolites of DCA, HDCA and LCA were revealed and were responsible for stimulating 5-HT. Intriguingly, blocking BAs-conjugated TGR5/TRPA1 signaling pathway alleviate PCD. Conclusively, altered gut microbiota after cholecystectomy induces PCD by promoting secondary BAs, which stimulates colonic 5-HT and increases colon motility.
Removing Unwanted Objects from Image/Frame By Generating Sub-Images Through Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Choupani Roya , Doğan Hacer
Published: August 2022

The amazingly developing and advancing technology in every field also shows itself in image/frame processing. Today, computer vision is an important field of study that can be applied to computers with human vision. Generative networks have been used specifically in studies to specific purpose. After the generating networks were published, they were effectively used to obtain new data for various purposes. Basically, we aimed to remove an unwanted object on the picture or frame. With this aim, thought that like human vision, the foresight of the structures that will replace the object planned to be removed has been considered. Accordingly, if an object is in front of a structure/s the object to desired remove it, this possible data to replace the object must have a similar transitivity with the structure/s behind it. To do this, it is aimed to create new data by using sub-data in object location surrounding the object, with the approach that the appropriate data to replace the object can be filled by learning from the structures around the object. It was tried to replace the object (for pixels containing the object) by generating pixels in object dimensions, using generative networks and useful results were obtained, in this study.
The single cell transcriptional landscape of esophageal adenocarcinoma and its modulation by neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Croft Wayne , Evans Richard PT , Pearce Hayden , Elshafie Mona , Griffiths Ewen A , Moss Paul
Published: August 2022

Immune checkpoint blockade has recently proven effective in subsets of patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) but little is known regarding the EAC immune microenvironment. We determined the single cell transcriptional profile of EAC in patients who were treatment-naive or had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Analysis of 52,387 cells revealed 10 major cell subsets of tumor, immune and stromal cells. Prior to chemotherapy tumors were heavy infiltrated by T regulatory cells and exhausted effector T cells whilst plasmacytoid dendritic cells were markedly expanded. Two dominant cancer-associated fibroblast populations were also observed whilst endothelial populations were suppressed. Pathological remission following chemotherapy associated with broad reversal of immune abnormalities together with fibroblast transition and an increase in endothelial cells whilst a chemoresistant epithelial stem cell population correlated with poor response. These findings reveal features that underlie and limit the response to current immunotherapy and identify a range of novel opportunities for targeted therapy.
Information about the natural history of acute infections commonly seen in primary care: a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines
Authors: Boaitey Kwame Peprah , Bakhit Mina , Krzyzaniak Natalia , Hoffmann Tammy
Published: August 2022

ObjectivesTo examine the reporting of natural history information, and relevant antibiotic stewardship strategies, in clinical guidelines for acute infections commonly seen in primary care and sometimes managed with antibiotics.MethodsA systematic review of national and international guidelines (2010 onwards), electronically available, for managing acute infections (respiratory, urinary, or skin and soft tissue). We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, TRIP, and GIN databases and websites of 22 guideline-publishing organisations.ResultsWe identified 82 guidelines, covering 114 eligible infections. Natural history information was reported in 49 (59.8%) of the guidelines and 66 (57.9%) of the conditions, most commonly for respiratory tract infections. Quantitative information about the expected infection duration was provided for 63.5% (n = 42) of the infections. Delayed prescribing was recommended for 34.2% (n = 39) of them and shared decision making for 21% (n = 24).ConclusionsJust over half of the guidelines for acute infections that are commonly managed in primary care and often with antibiotics contained natural history information. As many of these infections spontaneously improve, this is a missed opportunity to disseminate this information to clinicians, promote antibiotic stewardship, and facilitate conversations with patients and informed decision-making.Systematic review registration: CRD42021247048
Landslide Investigations Using Direct Current Resistivity and Ground Penetrating Radar Methods: Case study Cikahuripan Vilage, Bandung
Authors: Widodo Widodo , Fatkhan Fatkhan , Parnadi Wahyudi W , Santoso Djoko , Alawiyah Susanti , Abdurahman Dadi , Laesanpura Agus
Published: August 2022

At present there are many natural hazards in Indonesia especially landslides. Therefore, investigating landslides become essential due to their impacts on greater risk of destructions and loss of life. The mitigation approach for investigating landslide is to determine potential slip zones of vulnerable area. As we know that landslides occur mostly in a certain region of Bandung, Indonesia. Hence, geophysical measurements were carried out to investigate the potential slip zone in the research area, Cikahuripan Village, Parongpong Subdistrict, Bandung. We conducted Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Direct Current Resistivity (DCR) measurements along six profiles. The geophysical survey of GPR was conducted using a 100 MHz GPR shielded antenna frequency and was obtained of two long profiles, whilst DCR was conducted using dipole-dipole configuration with four long profiles. Based on the integration of all GPR and DCR data were processed yielding the quasi 3D resistivity cross-section. The research area shows three lithology layers which are sandy tuff, clay tuff and lava breccia with range of resistivity value of 19,5–74 Ωm, 5–19,5 Ωm and more than 74 Ωm, respectively. The reimaging geological cross-section corresponds to GPR and DCR models indicating a potential slip zone. This appears as clay lithology at the depth of 4–16 meters beneath the surface. GPR and DCR results show that models are mutually supportive and consistent with each other.
Association of prophylactic heparin therapy and outcomes in critically ill patients with sepsis-induced coagulopathy: A marginal structural Cox model cohort study
Authors: Huang Jia-jia , zou zhiye , Zhou Zhi-peng , Liu Yan , Yang Zhen-jia , Zhang Jingjing , Luan Ying-yi , Yao Yong-ming , Wu Ming
Published: August 2022

BackgroundSepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC) is defined as infection-induced organ dysfunction and coagulopathy. Although anticoagulation with heparin has been widely used in practice, its effectiveness for treating SIC remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate whether prophylactic heparin administration would provide a survival advantage for patients with SIC.Methods Patients with SIC were identified from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database. The primary endpoint was ICU mortality, and the secondary outcomes were 7-day, 14-day, and 28-day mortality as well as hospital mortality. A Cox proportional hazards model and propensity score matching (PSM) were used to account for baseline differences in the probability of using prophylactic heparin. The marginal structural Cox model (MSCM) was employed to adjust for both baseline and time-varying confounding factors. E-value analysis was used for unmeasured confounding.Results A total of 6498 septic patients with SIC were enrolled in the study, with 1284 in the heparin group and 5124 in the nonheparin group. There was no significant effect on ICU mortality in the overall population (prematched, hazard ratio [HR] 0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77-1.14, P=0.517, postmatched, HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.70-1.12, P=0.323). Interestingly, the MSCM identified a significant effect on ICU mortality in the overall population (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.60-0.98, P=0.032). Stratification analysis with the MSCM showed that prophylactic heparin administration was associated with decreased ICU mortality only among patients with a SIC score of 4 (HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.45-0.89, P=0.009). Similar results were replicated with PSM only for patients with a SIC score of 4 (ICU mortality HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.95, P=0.025; 7-day mortality HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.36-0.98, P=0.040; 14-day mortality HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.44-0.98, P=0.040; Hospital mortality HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.58-1.03, P=0.074; 28-day mortality HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.54-1.10, P=0.147). E-value analysis indicated robustness to unmeasured confounding.Conclusions: Prophylactic heparin administration to patients with a SIC score of 4 appears to be associated with improved survival outcomes, including ICU mortality and 7-day and 14-day mortality, but not with improvement in hospital or 28-day mortality. These results need to be verified in prospective randomized controlled trials.
Human displacements from tropical cyclone Idai attributable to climate change
Authors: Mester Benedikt , Vogt Thomas , Bryant Seth , Otto Christian , Frieler Katja , Schewe Jacob
Published: August 2022

Extreme weather events often trigger massive population displacement. A compounding factor is that the frequency and intensity of such events is affected by anthropogenic climate change. However, the effect of historical climate change on displacement risk has so far not been quantified. Here, we show how displacement can be partially attributed to climate change, using the example of the 2019 tropical cyclone Idai in Mozambique. We estimate population exposure to flooding following Idai’s landfall, using a combination of storm surge modeling and flood depth estimation from remote sensing images, for factual (climate change) and counterfactual (no climate change) mean sea level and maximum wind speed conditions. We find that climate change has increased displacement risk from this event by approximately 3.1 to 3.5%, corresponding to 16,000 - 17,000 additional displaced persons. Besides highlighting the significant effects on humanitarian conditions already imparted by climate change, our study provides a blueprint for event-based displacement attribution.
The relationship between fun and the overall score of the MEEGA360 scale
Authors: Gini Federica , Bassanelli Simone
Published: August 2022

Fun plays a significant role in learning. Given its positive impact on education, the role of fun has often been investigated in the context of gamification and educational games. An important problem with the study of the role of fun in learning is the lack of consistency in the assessment. There are a few existing tools for the evaluation of fun alone, but it is rarely assessed along with the other features of usability and gaming experience on a single scale. With the intent to fill this gap, we present MEEGA360, a modified version of the MEEGA + scale. Strengths and limits of the MEEGA + scale will be described, along with our solutions, and a first application.
TNFRSF19 (TROY) as a plasma biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring intracranial aneurysms progression
Authors: Zhang Qian , Li Shifu , Tang Dong , Yan Langchao , Chen Zhou , Tao Wengui , Wang Ying , Huang Zheng , Chen Fenghua
Published: August 2022

Background
This study aimed to identify and validate potential blood biomarkers for intracranial aneurysms (IAs) using bioinformatics analysis.
Methods
GSE54083 dataset was downloaded, then differently expressed genes (DEGs) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were used to identify the consistently differential expression genes from non-IAs to rupture IAs. We then calculated the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of each gene to evaluate their diagnostic capability. Moreover, the XCell algorithm was used to integrate the expression data to score the relative abundance of the vascular microenvironment. Lastly, qRT-PCR and ELISA assays were performed to validate potential biomarkers using our clinical samples.
Results
Six hub genes (TNFRSF19, FBXO38, SLC26A10, C11orf24, P2RX6, and RORC) were identified by AUCs greater than 0.9 in our bioinformatics analysis. From non-IAs to RIAs, the abundances of B cell types were increased while T cell types were decreased. NK T cells had the most cell abundance with a significant elevating trend. The qRT-PCR assay revealed that the expression trend of TNFRSF19, FBXO38, and RORC were consistent with the bioinformatics analysis. Eventually, the ELISA assay revealed that TNFRSF19 (TROY) was significantly elevated in patients with UIAs and RIAs. What’s more, the plasma TROY was positively correlated with CRP (r = 0.46), D-dimer (r = 0.39), and number of Neutrophil and white blood cells.
Conclusions
TNFRSF19 (TROY) might play a key role in the development of IAs and could be a novel blood-based biomarker for diagnosing IAs and monitoring the progression of IAs.
Zinc-modified phosphate-based glass micro-filler improves Candida albicans resistance of auto-polymerized acrylic resin without altering mechanical performance
Authors: Lee Myung-Jin , Kim Min-Ji , Mangal Utkarsh , Seo Ji-Yeong , Kwon Jae-Sung , Choi Sung-Hwan
Published: August 2022

Colonization of auto-polymerized acrylic resin by pathogenic Candida albicans is a common problem for denture users. In this study, zinc-modified phosphate-based glass was introduced into an auto-polymerized acrylic resin at concentrations of 3, 5, and 7 wt.%. The mechanical properties (flexural strength, elastic modulus, microhardness, and contact angle) and surface morphology of the resultant material were investigated, and the antimicrobial effect on C. albicans was examined. The mechanical properties slightly differed between the control and zinc-modified phosphate-based glass samples (p > 0.05); however, the number of C. albicans colony-forming units was significantly lower in the control (p < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed that C. albicans tended not to adhere to the material. Thus, the novel materials retained the advantageous mechanical properties of unaltered acrylic resins while simultaneously exhibiting a strong antimicrobial effect in vitro.