bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Top-k Spatial Keyword Query Based on Reachability
Authors: Li Yanhong , Ren Jiayu , Luo Changyin , Feng Yu , Du Xiaokun , Li Jianjun
Published: April 2022

Spatial keyword query (SKQ) is a research hotspot in the field of spatio-temporal databases. The spatial proximity and text similarity between objects and the query are considered during query processing. In order to better meet the personal-ized needs of users and improve the accuracy and real-time of spatial keyword query results, we propose the Top-k spatial keyword query based on reachability (RSKQ). Such query returns the k best objects that satisfy the reachability and query keyword constraints according to a comprehensive score, which considers the spatial proximity, text similarity, and accessibility between the query and the object. Firstly, an efficient index called SRTR-tree is proposed, which can intelligently organize road network structure information, keywords and location information of spatio-textual objects, and vehicle trajectory information. Moreover , several pruning techniques are designed to prune massive objects irrelevant to the query according to accessibility, spatial proximity, and textual similarity, so as to speed up query processing. Based on the SRTR-tree and pruning strategies, a non-trivial basic algorithm is proposed to process RSKQ queries. In addition, we introduce a more efficient optimized algorithm to improve the efficiency of query processing. Finally, a series of experimental evaluations are carried out to show the effectiveness of our methods.
WITHDRAWN: A prospective study of the use of a reverse puncture device and specimen eversion of the rectum for resection in total laparoscopic low rectal cancer resection
Authors: Qian Long , Huang Xiaoxu , Xu Li , Chen Hao , Cao Tingting , Wang Song , Luo Can , Xia Yabin
Published: April 2022

Purpose: To investigate the safety and efficacy of a reverse puncture device and specimen eversion of the rectum for resection in total laparoscopic proctectomy. Methods: In a prospective study from August 2019 to March 2021, 40 patients underwent a procedure with a reverse puncture device and specimen eversion of the rectum for resection in total laparoscopic low rectal cancer resection, that is, natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (the NOSES group). Forty patients in the control group were treated with conventional laparoscopic radical resection of low rectal cancer (the LAP group).Intraoperative- and postoperative-related indicators, recovery, inflammatory factors, quality of life and mental health were compared. Results: All operations were successfully completed . Compared with the LAP group, the NOSES group had better short-term outcomes, such as eating time, postoperative pain, and especially postoperative incision-related complications. At the same time, postoperative inflammatory factor levels, psychological trauma, life-related anxiety and depression scores, and patient’s quality of life were better than those of the LAP group. Conclusions: The application of a reverse puncture device and specimen eversion of the rectum for resection in total laparoscopic low rectal cancer resection is a technically feasible and safe approach that has a short-term curative effect.Chinese Clinilical Registry:Registration number: ChiCTR2100048061（2021.6.29）
Spatial activation of autophagy in human placenta-related tissue during labor: a possible mechanism for labor onset
Authors: Shang Jing , Wang Zhijian , Huang Yingying , Wu Yuyu , Jin Jin
Published: April 2022

Introduction: The study aimed to explore the mechanism of labor onset via investigation on autophagy in placental tissues of normal pregnant women. Methods: Placentas at the first, second, and third months of gestation and membrane samples from uniparous women without signs of uterine contractions (gestation group) were collected as well as placentas and membranes from uniparous women (parturition group) who underwent vaginal delivery (parturition-initiation group; PI group) or cesarean sections (parturition-non-initiation group; PNI group) without any medical complications. Autophagosomes were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Immunofluorescence and western blotting (WB) were used to quantify the protein levels of autophagy markers LC3A and LC3B in placenta and fetal membrane. TEM, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and WB were used to compare the autophagy in different parts of placenta and fetal membrane in the PI and PNI groups. Results: TEM and IHC results showed that the number of autophagosomes and autophagolysosomes increased in the gestation group, and WB results suggested increased LC3B/A ratio between the placenta and the fetal membrane in gestation group. Autophagy in the maternal side of placenta in PI group was significantly increased, and the autophagy level in the placenta and fetal membrane near rupture became higher in both PI and PNI groups. Discussion: Autophagy can occur in placenta and fetal membrane, with its activity higher in the initiation of labor, indicating its role during labor.
Nischarin expression may have differing roles in male and female melanoma patients
Authors: Ostojić Marija , Jevrić Marko , Mitrović-Ajtić Olivera , Tanić Miljana , Čavić Milena , Milovanović Zorka , Srdić-Ra Tatjana , Grahovac Jelena
Published: April 2022

PurposeMelanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Despite the advancements in targeted and immunotherapies, metastatic melanoma patients still have poor prognosis, and there is an urgent need for novel treatment modalities. Nischarin (NISCH) is a druggable scaffolding protein shown to be a tumor suppressor in breast cancer through regulation of cancer cell survival, motility and invasion. The aim of this study was to determine NISCH expression, prognostic value, and potential role in melanoma progression.MethodsNISCH expression and regulation mechanisms were examined in publicly available data sets and on a retrospective cohort of melanoma patient tissue samples from our institution using RT-qPCR and MSP. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to examine the potential role of NISCH in melanoma. Tumor immune profiles were investigated using TIMER2.0 website.ResultsNISCH was expressed at both mRNA and protein level, and its expression was decreased in tumors compared to skin and nevi. Lower expression could be attributed to the presence of microdeletions and hyper-methylation of the NISCH promoter in the tumor tissue. NISCH expression in primary melanoma had favorable prognostic value for females, but high NISCH expression meant worse prognosis for males. GSEA indicated significant sex-related disparities in predicted NISCH-associated signaling pathways in melanoma. High NISCH expression in males was associated with higher content of B cells in primary tumors. ConclusionsOur data indicate that levels of NISCH expression may have an impact on melanoma progression, but that its function is different in male and female patients. Since NISCH was previously investigated only in female cancers, our findings open up a new avenue of investigation.
Effectiveness of pembrolizumab in trial-ineligible patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Fukuokaya Wataru , Yanagisawa Takafumi , Hashimoto Masaki , Yamamoto Shutaro , Koike Yuhei , Imai Yu , Iwatani Kosuke , Onuma Hajime , Ito Kagenori , Urabe Fumihiko , Tsuzuki Shunsuke , Kimura Shoji , Miki Jun , Oyama Yu , Abe Hirokazu , Kimura Takahiro
Published: April 2022

BackgroundThe KEYNOTE-045 trial showed that pembrolizumab therapy improved the survival of patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma (UC). However, its effectiveness in trial-ineligible patients remains unclear.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a multicenter retrospective study to evaluate the effectiveness of pembrolizumab in patients with metastatic UC who were trial-ineligible. The data of 222 consecutive patients with platinum-treated metastatic UC who received pembrolizumab as second-line therapy were analyzed. Trial eligibility was assessed using the KEYNOTE-045 criteria. Inverse probability weighting (IPW) was used to balance patient characteristics. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were examined using the IPW-adjusted Kaplan-Meier method. IPW-adjusted restricted mean survival times (RMSTs) were compared between trial-ineligible and trial-eligible patients.ResultsOne hundred thirty-three patients (59.9%) were classified as trial-ineligible according to the KEYNOTE-045 criteria. Patients who did not develop progression following chemotherapy were the most common reason for trial protocol violation (N = 58 [26.1%]). The trial-ineligible patients showed similar RMST for PFS (difference: 2.4 months, 95% CI: -3.2 to 8.0, P = 0.40) and OS (difference: 1.7 months, 95% CI: -8.3 to 4.9, P = 0.60) compared with the trial-eligible patients. Furthermore, patients who were trial-ineligible because of comorbidities, poor performance status, or impaired liver or kidney function also had similar RMST for PFS and OS compared with those who were trial-eligible.ConclusionsThis study suggests that the effectiveness of pembrolizumab may be retained in trial-ineligible patients with platinum-treated metastatic UC. Expanding trial eligibility criteria for these patients may be beneficial.
Livelihood zone-based perception and adaptation strategies of rural households’ to rainfall and temperature variability in the Northeastern Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonen Abebe Arega
Published: April 2022

BackgroundAppraising of rural households’ perception and observed rainfall and temperature variability is a vital stage in devising operational adaptation strategies. Therefore, this study aims to examine the rural households’ perception and adaptation strategies to climate variability induced vulnerability in Northeastern Highlands of Ethiopia across the livelihood zones. A total of 361 sample households were selected using proportional probability sampling techniques. Data sources such as survey questionnaire, interview and focus group discussion were used to collect the necessary information. Historical rainfall and temperature data from CenTrends Great Horn of Africa v1 and CRU_TS 4.0 were also used. Precipitation Concentration Index (PCI) and Standardized Anomaly Index (SAI) model were employed to analyze the data. Descriptive statistical tools for frequency and percentage were also used. ResultsThe result showed that rainfall and temperature variability induced vulnerability were well perceived by rural households’ though varied across the livelihood zones. This was also similarly shown by Precipitation concentration index and standardized anomaly index at the annual, Kiremt and Belg seasons in the observed rainfall and temperature information. In response to rainfall and temperature variability induced vulnerability, rural households have engaged in a range of adaptation measures. These include the different biophysical soil and water conservation measures; crop and livestock diversification by planting and rearing variety of crop and livestock; changing crop planting and harvesting dates according to the changing pattern of rainfall. However, the executed adaptation strategies are insufficient as compared to the imposed vulnerability challenges by climate variability. There is also a great gap between rural households’ climate variability perception and level of actual adaptation response measures. Because the result revealed that the presence of various impediments deterred the available and implemented adaptation response measures to climate variability induced vulnerability. ConclusionEven if rural households perceiving and practicing adaptation measures to climate variability induced vulnerability, still different impediments weaken the actual adaptation responses. Therefore, these demands the government, communities, and other stakeholders at different level in designing integrated and distinct livelihood zone-based adaptation strategies to reduce households’ crop-livestock mixed agriculture from climate calamity vulnerability.
Genome-wide integrated analyses of DNA methylation and gene expression of rainbow trout muscle under variable ploidy and muscle atrophy conditions
Authors: Salem Mohamed , Al-Tobasei Rafet , Ali Ali , Kenney Brett
Published: April 2022

BackgroundRainbow trout is an important cool, freshwater aquaculture species used as a model for biological research. However, the genome reference has not been annotated for epigenetic markers affecting various biological processes, including muscle growth/atrophy. Increased energetic demands during gonadogenesis/reproduction provoke muscle atrophy in rainbow trout. We described DNA methylation and its associated gene expression in atrophying muscle by comparing gravid, diploid females to sterile, triploid females. ResultsMethyl Mini-seq and RNA-Seq were simultaneously used to characterize genome-wide DNA methylation and its association with gene expression in rainbow trout muscle. Genome-wide enrichment in the number of CpGs, accompanied by depleted methylation levels, was noticed around the gene transcription start site (TSS). Hypermethylation of CpG sites within ±1kb on both sides of TSS (promoter and gene body) was weakly/moderately associated with reduced gene expression. Conversely, hypermethylation of the CpG sites in downstream regions of the gene body +2 to +10 kb was weakly associated with increased gene expression. Unlike mammalian genomes, rainbow trout gene promotors are poor in CpG islands, at <1% compared to 60%. No signs of genome-wide, differentially methylated (DM) CpGs were observed due to the polyploidy effect; only 1,206 CpGs (0.03%) were differentially methylated, and these were primarily associated with muscle atrophy. Twenty-eight genes exhibited differential gene expression consistent with methylation levels of 31 DM CpGs. These 31 DM CpGs represent potential epigenetic markers of muscle atrophy in rainbow trout. The DM CpG-harboring genes are involved in apoptosis, epigenetic regulation, autophagy, collagen metabolism, cell membrane functions, and Homeobox proteins. Our study also identified genes explaining higher water content and modulated glycolysis previously shown as characteristic biochemical signs of rainbow trout muscle atrophy associated with sexual maturation. ConclusionsThis study characterized DNA methylation in the rainbow trout genome and its correlation with gene expression. This work also identified novel epigenetic markers associated with muscle atrophy in fish/lower vertebrates.
On the Seismic Design and Behavior of Automated Rack Supported Warehouses
Authors: Natali Agnese , Morelli Francesco , Salvatore Walter
Published: April 2022

Automated Rack Supported Warehouses (ARSWs), consisting in huge steel buildings offering optimized storage solutions, have been facing a huge diffusion in the last decade, mainly due to the necessity of having bigger and more efficient places to stock and handle goods through automated systems. However, there is not a specific regulatory framework for them, and they are currently being designed adopting the approach used for traditional steel racks. Even if traditional steel racks and ARSWs have several common aspects, there are relevant differences that do not allow to adopt the same design approach, especially for seismic actions. With the aim of highlighting the factors and parameters currently influencing the seismic design and the behaviour of these constructions, and the consequent need of a different design approach, the present paper presents a critical analysis of the seismic design approach currently adopted by technicians and designers. Then, a set of 5 structures designed by 5 of the major European companies specialized in this field is used to perform both the critical analysis of the different design approaches adopted and the assessment of the seismic performance. The results of the seismic assessment highlight the main typical criticalities and the necessity of a novel proper design approach.
Exploring the lncRNA localization landscape within the retinal pigment epithelium under normal and stress conditions
Authors: Kaczynski Tadeusz J. , Au Elizabeth D. , Farkas Michael H.
Published: April 2022

Background:Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as a class of genes whose importance has yet to be fully realized. It is becoming clear that the primary function of lncRNAs is to regulate gene expression, and they do so through a variety of mechanisms that are critically tied to their subcellular localization. Although most lncRNAs are poorly understood, mapping lncRNA subcellular localization can provide a foundation for understanding these mechanisms. Results:Here, we present an initial step toward uncovering the localization landscape of lncRNAs in the human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) using high throughput RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq). To do this, we differentiated human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into RPE, isolated RNA from nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions, and performed RNA-Seq on both. Furthermore, we investigated lncRNA localization changes that occur in response to oxidative stress. We discovered that, under normal conditions, most lncRNAs are seen in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm to a similar degree, but of the transcripts that are highly enriched in one compartment, far more are nuclear than cytoplasmic. Interestingly, under oxidative stress conditions, we observed an increase in lncRNA localization in both nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions. In addition, we found that nuclear localization was partially attributable to the presence of previously described nuclear retention motifs, while adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing appeared to play a very minimal role. Conclusions:Our findings map lncRNA localization in the RPE and provide two avenues for future research: 1) how lncRNAs function in the RPE, and 2) how one environmental factor, in isolation, may alter lncRNA localization and play a potential role in retinal disease pathogenesis.
Learning two-phase microstructure evolution using neural operators and autoencoder architectures
Authors: Karniadakis George , Oommen Vivek , Shukla Khemraj , Goswami Somdatta , Dingreville Remi
Published: April 2022

Phase-field modeling is an effective but computationally expensive method for capturing the mesoscale morphological and microstructure evolution in materials. Hence, fast and generalizable surrogate models are needed to alleviate the cost in computationally taxing processes such as in optimization and design of materials. The intrinsic discontinuous nature of the physical phenomena incurred by the presence of sharp phase boundaries makes the training of the surrogate model cumbersome. We develop a framework that integrates a convolutional autoencoder architecture with a deep neural operator (DeepONet) to learn the dynamic evolution of a two-phase mixture. We utilize the convolutional autoencoder to provide a compact representation of the microstructure data in a low-dimensional latent space. DeepONet, which consists of two sub-networks, one for encoding the input function at a fixed number of sensors locations (branch net) and another for encoding the locations for the output functions (trunk net), learns the mesoscale dynamics of the microstructure evolution from the autoencoder latent space. The decoder part of the convolutional autoencoder then reconstructs the time-evolved microstructure from the DeepONet predictions. The result is an efficient and accurate accelerated phase-field framework that is robust to noisy inputs.
Optimization of hot-air drying process parameters of wheat by the response surface method combined with NSGA-Ⅱ algorithm
Authors: Sun Tongsheng , Ling Feng
Published: April 2022

In order to reduce the energy consumption and accelerate the drying rate in the process of hot-air drying wheat, and provide a theoretical basis for the wheat drying equipment and process. This paper designed hot-air drying experiments with hot air temperature, hot air speed and loading capacity as the influencing factors and drying rate and energy consumption as the targets according to Box-Behnken response surface design theory. The factors in the experiments were analyzed by a comprehensive scoring model. The effects of hot air temperature, hot air speed and loading quantity on drying rate, energy consumption and comprehensive score were investigated by using grey relation analysis theory. The multiple non-linear regression method was used to fit the functional relationships between the influencing factors and the targets. The NSGA-Ⅱ algorithm was used for multi-objective optimization of the targets to obtain the best hot-air drying conditions. The results demonstrated that the three factors that determine the drying rate and energy consumption are in order: hot air temperature, hot air speed, and loading capacity. The optimal process parameters for hot-air drying wheat are: hot air temperature 53.4°C, hot air speed 1.80 m/s, loading capacity 1.40 kg/m2.
Does economic growth target stimulate carbon emissions? Evidence from China
Authors: Fan Tianzheng , Zhao Bin , Zhang Jinning
Published: April 2022

Carbon emissions have become a new threat to sustainable development in China, and local government actions can play an important role in energy conservation and emission reduction. This paper explores the theoretical mechanisms and transmission paths of economic growth targets affecting carbon emissions from the perspective of economic growth targets, and conducts an empirical analysis based on 30 provincial panel data in China from 2003 to 2019. The results show that: economic growth targets are positively correlated with carbon emissions under a series of endogeneity and robustness; there are regional heterogeneity, target heterogeneity and structural heterogeneity in the impact of economic growth targets on carbon emissions; after economic growth targets are set, government actions can influence carbon emissions by affecting resource mismatch and industrial restructuring; It is further found that there is a "U" shaped relationship between economic pressure and carbon emissions. Based on the above findings, this paper further proposes that a high-quality performance assessment mechanism should be developed to bring into play the active role of local governments in achieving carbon reduction goals, and thus contribute to high-quality economic development.
Prediction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons toxicity using Online CHEmical database and Modeling environment
Authors: Suresh Jijitha , Johnson Jermin John , Arulanandam Charli Deepak
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this computational study was to determine the aquatic toxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In PAHs two or more aromatic rings are fused in linear, angular, or clustered patterns. The ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena pyriformis is the most often utilised ciliate for laboratory study among the numerous animal models. From this computational risk assessment only two compounds shows low log(IGC50)−1 value, such as 1H-Indole and Phenazone log(IGC50)−1 value predicted as 0.1 to 0.11 -log(mmol/L) ± 1.07 against the Tetrahymena pyriformis.
Construction and Validation of a Tumor Microenvironment-Based Scoring System to Evaluate Prognosis and Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy in Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Huang Pinzheng , Xu Linfeng , Li Lixi , Ke Yizhong , Zhang Min , Zhang Kairui , Lu Kongyao , Jin Mingming , Huang Gang
Published: April 2022

Background: Lung cancer is among the most dangerous malignant tumors to human health. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) accounts for about 40% of all lung cancers. Accumulating evidence suggests that the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a crucial regulator of carcinogenesis and therapeutic efficacy in LUAD. However, the impact of tumor microenvironment-related signatures (TMERSs) representing the TME characteristics on the prognosis and therapeutic outcome of LUAD patients remains to be further explored.Materials and methods: Gene expression files and clinical information of 1630 LUAD samples and 275 samples with immunotherapy information from different databases such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Cancer Research Institute (CRI) iAtlas were downloaded and applied. 300 tumor microenvironment-related signatures (TMERS) based on a comprehensive collection of marker genes were quantified by single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), and then 8 significant signatures were selected to construct the tumor microenvironment-related signature score (TMERSscore) by performing The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO)-Cox analysis. Results: In this study, we constructed a TME-based prognostic stratification model for patients with LUAD and validated it in several external datasets. Furthermore, TMERSscore was found to be positively correlated with tumor malignancy and a high TMERSscore predicted a poor prognosis. Moreover, the TMERSscore of responders treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor (ICI) therapies was significantly lower than that of non-responders, and the TMERSscore was positively correlated with the tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) score, implying that a low TMERSscore predicts a better response to ICI treatment and may provide independent and incremental predictive value over current biomarkers.Conclusions: Overall, we constructed a TMERSscore that can be used for LUAD patient prognosis stratification as well as ICI therapeutic efficacy evaluation, supportive results from independent external validation sets have shown its robustness and effectiveness.
Establishment of Public Health Management Cadre in India and guidelines for implementation - 2022
Authors: Kumar Piyush , Anupama Advocate
Published: April 2022

National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 (Para 11.8) proposed that a multi/interdisciplinary health workforce is necessary for managing programs under National Health Mission. National Health Policy 2017 considered creating Public Health Management Cadre (PHMC) in all States. In the 13th CONFERENCE of CENTRAL COUNCIL OF'HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (CCHFW), 2019 under the chairpersonship of Hon’ble central Health Minister of India the decision evolved to establish PHMC in all States by year 2022. The key objective of establishment of PHMC is best utilization of expertise and talent for ensuring health for all. To segregate clinical and public health functions among cadres with flexibilities as per requirement of the state. Four types of structures and frameworks are only suggestive, and the states have flexibility to modify the structures according to the local situation and context. Medical and Health professionals would form a major part, but professionals from diverse backgrounds like sociology, economics, anthropology, hospital management, communications, etc., who have undergone public health management training would also be considered. States could decide to locate public health managers (medical/non-medical) into same or different cadre streams belonging to Directorates of Health. In states like Bihar where there is lack of Directorates of Health the situation is very worse indicated by NITI Aayog Health Index reports. In such states the researcher found that untrained persons are posted on key public health management posts while the public health trained doctors are not posted for public health management. The specialists are not involved in PHM and it may be due to the fact that there is shortage of specialist at country and state levels. The public health cadre is a misnomer if they will also work for clinical treatments and the key goal of PHMC will be affected particularly in states like Bihar. This is the first ever decision at national level for establishing PHMC and the details of pay structure, transparency etc. are not available and although the objectives are quite clear; the PHMC cadre may be affected in states like Bihar where it seems that lack of Directorate and unscrupulous management have grabbed the health system.
Identification of Distinct Clinical Phenotypes of Cardiogenic Shock Using Machine Learning Consensus Clustering Approach
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Yufeng , Yao Renqi , Chen Kai , Xu Qiumeng , Huang Renhong , Mao Zhiguo , Yu Yue
Published: April 2022

Background
Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a heterogeneous condition with multiple underlying causes and associated outcomes. Discriminating between different patterns of CS is still challenging. We tested the hypothesis that the machine learning (ML) consensus clustering method would identify CS phenotypes with unique clinical profiles and outcomes.
Methods
Patients diagnosed with CS on admission from the electronic ICU (eICU) Collaborative Research Database were included in the current study. We performed an unsupervised ML consensus clustering analysis based on 59 demographic and clinical variables among 21,925 patients with CS. The optimal number of clusters was determined by examining the consensus matrix (CM) heat map, cumulative distribution function (CDF), cluster-consensus plots, and the proportion of ambiguously clustered pairs (PAC) analysis. We calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) of each variable and used the cutoff of ± 0.3 to identify each cluster’s key features. We assessed the association of the phenotypes with multiple clinical endpoints using logistic regression (LR) analysis.
Results
The consensus cluster analysis identified two clusters (Cluster 1: n = 9,848; Cluster 2: n = 12,077). The key features of patients in Cluster 1, compared with Cluster 2, included: lower blood pressure, lower eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate), higher BUN (blood urea nitrogen), higher creatinine, lower albumin, higher potassium, lower bicarbonate, lower red blood cell (RBC), higher red blood cell distribution width (RDW), higher SOFA scores, higher APS III scores, and higher APACHE IV scores at admission. The results of LR analysis showed that the cluster 2 was associated with lower in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 0.374; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.347–0.402; P < 0.001), ICU mortality (OR: 0.349; 95% CI: 0.318–0.382; P < 0.001), and AKI incidence after admission (OR: 0.478; 95% CI: 0.452–0.505; P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Machine learning consensus clustering analysis synthesized the pattern of clinical and laboratory data to reveal distinct CS phenotypes with different clinical outcomes.
Is mRankin scale correlated with modified-treatment-in-cerebral-infarction? A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression on randomized controlled trial and registries.
Authors: De Rubeis Gianluca , Pampana Enrico , Prosperini Luca , Pezzella Francesca Romana , Fabiano Sebastiano , Bertaccini Luca , Anticoli Sabrina , Saba Luca , Gasperini Claudio , Cotroneo Enrico
Published: April 2022

PurposeThe purpose was to evaluate the numeric correlation between modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI)≥2b/3 and modified Rankin Scale (mRS)≤2 in RCT and registries.Material and MethodsLiterature research was performed on Pubmed/OVID for studies in 2015-2021, mTICI, mRS and sample-size were recorded. Exclusion criteria were monocentric study, not-human and not-English. Studies qualities were assessed with MINORS/RoB2. Meta-analysis with random effect model was performed. Meta-logistic and meta-linear regressions were used to correlate mTICI and mRS in both RCTs and registries. Z-test was used for comparing coefficients between RCTs/registries.Results We evaluated thirty-four studies (17 registries; 17 RCTs) for 29540 patients (27031 from registries (median registry 1192.0 [CI95% 698.7-1992.8]; 2509 from RCTs [median RCT 165.0 [CI95% 98.1-234.0]). 10/17(58.8%) registries considered also vertebrobasilar system strokes. Overall mRs≤2 was 46.0 (CI95% 43.8-48.3) with I2=92.6%.The odd-ratio of obtaining a mRS≤2 for a singular increased of mTICI≥2b rate was: 1.49(CI95% 1.22-2.01) for all studies (for 1% increase of mTICI≥2b the odds for obtaining mRS≤2 was 1.49), 1.50(CI95% 1.00-2.23) for RCTs and 1.50(CI95% 1.10-2.23) for registries. mTICI≥2b and mRS had a positive correlation with coefficient of 0.49(CI95% 0.22-0.75, p=0.001) for all studies (for 1% increase of mTICI≥2b the mRS≤2 rate augment by 0.49%), 0.51(CI95% 0.10-0.91) for RCTs and 0.46(CI 95% 0.09-0.84) for registries.No differences were found in coefficients between RCTs/registries (p=0.50; p=0.57; respectively).ConclusionsUnitary increased of mTICI≥2b rate correspond to an augment of mRS≤2 by 0.49(CI95% 0.22-0.75) with odd-ratio of obtaining mRS≤2 of 1.49(CI95% 1.22-2.01), without significantly differences in coefficients.
Traditional Farmlands for Tree Species Conservation in Benin (West Africa).
Authors: Alexis Akakpo Bokon , Antoine Padonou Elie , Belarmain Fandohan Adandé , Achille Assogbadjo Ephrem
Published: April 2022

Increase in human population and activities are having significant impacts on the conservation of biodiversity. As traditional farmlands have challenges of coupling crop production and conservation of biodiversity, this study aims at assessing traditional farmlands in regard to their typology and impacts on conservation of tree species. A line transect of 26 km was applied for the identification of the farmlands and tree species were inventoried within each farm. A cluster analysis was performed; tree species diversity indices and dendrometric parameters were computed and analysed according to each of farmland groups. Five groups of traditional farmlands were found with the small areas with high number of crop species and tree species with dominated cover and the large areas with small number of crop species and tree species with high crown cover and a high number of tree species. The trees species diversity was high within the largest size farmlands. The tree density (p = 0.249), total height of trees (p = 0.585) and tree crown area (p = 0.813) were not significantly different among farmland groups. The stem diameter varied significantly among farmland groups and the large size farmland groups have high diameter values. The distributions of the diameter of trees for all the farmland groups showed the shapes that were characterized by the tree populations with higher amount of small size stands for all farmland groups. Large farmlands may be promoted to target tree species conservation in agricultural areas in the localities of Ouémé catchment.
Does the efficiency of banks adversely affect financial stability? A comparative study between traditional and Islamic banks: Evidence from Egypt
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Hafez Hassan
Published: April 2022

The efficiency of banks is an important factor that effectively contributes to the stability of the world financial system, thus reducing financial failure rates of banks and international financial crises that leads to the stability of the global financial system. This study aims to investigate whether the efficiency of Egyptian banks adversely affects financial stability. A sample of 30 banks operating in Egypt was selected to answer this question using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach and financial ratios. This study enables the Central Bank of Egypt to identify which banking system (Islamic banks or traditional banks) is more efficient and contributes significantly to boost economic growth. Results revealed that the efficiency of banks is a core factor to affect financial stability. The statically explanatory power of this effect is significant but weak at 14.1% for all Egyptian banks, 6.3% for traditional banks, strong for traditional banks with Islamic window at 22%, and stronger for Islamic banks at 55%. Consequently, the Islamic banking system in Egypt is more efficient compared to traditional banks and has a greater impact on financial stability as one of the pillars of financial inclusion to boost economic growth in Egypt.
O USO DOS JOGOS DIGITAIS EDUCACIONAIS NO PROCESSO NO ENSINO-APRENDIZAGEM COM ÊNFASE NAS HABILIDADES DO PENSAMENTO COMPUTACIONAL
Authors: Ferreira Guarda Graziela , Crespo Coelho da Silva Pinto Sérgio
Published: April 2022

A criatividade é uma habilidade essencial no mundo contemporâneo, pessoas criativas são curiosas e gostam de explorar ideias, por isso, tendem a serem inovadoras na resolução de problemas. Sob essa perspectiva, o presente estudo tem como propósito apresentar uma metodologia educacional utilizando as premissas da aprendizagem criativa e uso de Jogos Digitais Educacionais com enfoque em desenvolver as habilidades do pensamento computacional tais como, raciocínio lógico, abstração, sistematização e decomposição, dentre outras com estudantes da educação básica potencializando a capacidade de resolução de problemas, tomadas de decisões sistemáticas e incentivando-os para a realização de trabalhos colaborativos. A estrutura curricular brasileira na educação básica não contempla, ainda, atividades de introdução à Computação e compreendendo essa importância, o projeto realizou um conjunto de ações durante três anos em uma escola particular do Distrito Federal. As atividades tiveram foco no ensino do raciocínio lógico, sequências lógicas, lógica de programação e reforço da disciplina de matemática. Os resultados evidenciaram que as atividades de introdução à Computação trouxeram qualidade, criatividade e inovação para a sala de aula colaborando para a melhora de rendimento escolar.
O DESENVOLVIMENTO PELA AMPLIAÇÃO DAS LIBERDADES HUMANAS O PAPEL DA LIBRAS E DA EDUCAÇÃO BILÍNGUE PARA A PESSOA COM SURDEZ NO BRASIL
Authors: Taiza Sulzbach Mayra , Natal Dinair Iolanda da Silva
Published: April 2022

Este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa exploratória que busca fazer uma aproximação da teoria do desenvolvimento como liberdade de Amartya Sen com as ciências ambientais, a partir do humano com ser biológico (natureza) e ser social (sociedade). Com muitas indagações, nem todas respondidas, porém refletidas, o texto discute a Surdez, o Surdo e os Sinais, a partir de três campos de conhecimento científico – clínico-patológico, sociologia e linguagem (duas áreas: natureza e humanidades) –, e a Deficiência, discutida pelas organizações civis. Discussão que apoia a compreensão das diferenças humanas e, portanto, dos instrumentos para ampliação das liberdades substantivas. Buscou-se por meio de revisão documental os instrumentos que permitiriam a ampliação das liberdades substantivas da pessoa com surdez no Brasil, partindo da Constituição de 1988, observou-se a institucionalização da Libras e da educação bilíngue. Para além do dialogo interdisciplinar, o texto argumentativo tece alguns comentários sobre a sociedade, que ampara o modelo de desenvolvimento como liberdade, ser pautada em estruturas sociais.
BOLSAS CAPES DE MOBILIDADE ACADÊMICA INTERNACIONAL 1952-2019
Authors: Cruz Viviane Xavier de Araújo , Eichler Marcelo Leandro
Published: April 2022

A educação superior brasileira e sua internacionalização são, historicamente, intensamente dependentes do Estado e do governo federal. Um exemplo disso foi o Ciência sem Fronteiras - CsF, programa que surgiu em 2011 com a audaciosa meta de conceder, em quatro anos, 101 mil bolsas de mobilidade estudantil e docente internacionais. Esse programa foi considerado estratégico no governo Dilma, porém foi descontinuado tão logo ela saiu do poder. Neste artigo, busca-se situar a Capes e, mais especificamente, o CsF no histórico das políticas de educação superior dos diferentes governos federais. Dessa forma, a partir de uma pesquisa bibliográfica e de análise documental, foi analisada a concessão de bolsas no exterior pela Capes, governo a governo, sendo proposta uma divisão da história da mobilidade estudantil para o exterior em seis períodos, onde são observados decréscimos de bolsas nos governos Costa e Silva, Médici, Itamar Franco, FHC e Temer. Além disso, foi elaborado um índice de mobilidade educacional (IME), que permitiu uma comparação relativa entre os diferentes governos federais em relação ao número de alunos de mestrado e doutorado, observando-se redução do indicador nos governos Itamar Franco, FHC e Temer, ditos liberais.
LITERACIA EM SAÚDE
Authors: Santini Luciane Alves , Moro Eliane Lourdes da Silva , Estabel Lizandra Brasil
Published: April 2022

O presente artigo originou-se de um levantamento bibliográfico para identificar instrumentos de avaliação de literacia em saúde no Brasil e os submeteu a análise de conteúdo (Bardin). Observou-se a relação entre a literacia em saúde e o letramento informacional visto que ambos englobam um conjunto de habilidades que auxiliam os sujeitos na busca, na avaliação e no uso das informações de que necessitam. Isto possibilitou refletir sobre a possibilidade de bibliotecas atuarem, a partir do letramento informacional, na melhoria dos níveis de literacia em saúde contribuindo para que os sujeitos desenvolvam maior competência na sua relação com a informação e melhoria na gestão da sua própria saúde.
Fungal Endophytes: A Storehouse of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Maity Arindam , Shah Suraj Kumar , Dey Yadu Nandan , Madhavan Yasasve
Published: April 2022

Fungal endophytes are the microbial adaptations that usually enter the plant tissues during their life cycle without harming the host plants. They are found everywhere on earth and generally depend on the hosts by developing various symbiotic relationships, like mutualism, hostility, and parasitism on rare occasions, leading to the growth and rise in the nutrient content of the hosts. Endophytes can develop tolerance in host organisms against the stresses induced by either living or non-living agents. They may protect them from insects or pests by building resistance. Interestingly, endophytes can synthesize many phytohormones, natural medicinal compounds and several essential enzymes beneficial for biotechnological perspectives that can be obtained by culturing plant tissue in a suitable medium. These endophytes are a reservoir of many new active phytoconstituents, like alkaloids, phenolics, steroids, quinones, tannins, saponins, etc., which exhibit anticancer, antiinsecticidal, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and many more properties. Exploring the new bioactive chemical entities from the endophytes may supply potent lead compounds for drug discovery to combat numerous disease conditions. Hence, the present review was carried out to explore the significance of the fungal endophytes and their medicinal, food, and cosmetic use.
Medicinal Attributes of Heterocyclic Compounds in Rheumatoid Arthritis:
Recent Developments and SAR Studies
Authors: Singh Vikram J. , Sharma Bharti , Chawla Pooja A.
Published: April 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that can attack anyone at any age, but it is most common in those between the ages of 30 and 50. It can impact joints or cause joint stiffness, as well as affect the eyes, skin, and lungs. In the absence of a clear mechanism underlying the occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis in humans, scientists have successfully identified and marked some of the most commonly involved biological targets, such as enzymes or receptors, including human carbonic anhydrase, Janus kinase, Bruton kinase, protein kinase, etc. It is plausible to antici-pate that any of the above-mentioned targets will provide a respite in the search for effective rheu-matoid arthritis treatments. This article attempted to compile recent advances in this field over the last six years (2016-2021) and successfully documented the positive outcomes of each significant research project. Without prejudice to any remaining research on this topic, the current compilation should serve as a starting point for future research works in this field. The structure-activity rela-tionships, mechanistic research, and molecular modelling of each class covered, as well as any clin-ical trial developments, have all been given special attention. This review discusses the design and development of numerous inhibitors for diverse targets, such as BTK, JAKs, MAPK-PDE4, SYK, NSAIDs-CAIs, PKC, and others.
Eating Disorders in the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Perspective
Authors: Marucci Simonetta , Almerighi Guido , Cerutti Nadia , Corbo Filomena , Zupo Roberta , De Iaco Giulia , Lisco Giuseppe , Triggiani Vincenzo , De Pergola Giovanni
Published: April 2022

Background:

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, current epidemiological conditions
may exacerbate the risk of new-onset, recurrence and relapse of eating disorders. This perspective
aims to better analyse the phenomenon.

Results:

Some data suggest that new-onset and recurrence/relapse of eating disorders are increasing
due to the pandemic. Government restrictions, self-confinement, social isolation, restriction
to healthcare facilities access, delayed access to diagnosis and cure, fear of contagion, distress
and difficulties related to the telemedicine approach contribute to this burden. The Immune system
dysfunction usually observed in undernourishment (e.g., anorexia nervosa) could delay the
diagnosis of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, and predispose to possible bacterial
superinfections. Conversely, patients with binge eating, obesity or metabolic syndrome are susceptible
to high-grade systemic inflammation and poor prognosis once the infection has occurred.

Discussion:

More detailed data combining research on eating disorders and COVID-19 are required
despite some evidence. Many data show that telemedicine has beneficial aspects, but its
impact on long-term mental health is still poorly understood. Short- and long-term consequences
of COVID-19 in patients with eating disorders are unknown, but they will likely become more
apparent over time.

Conclusion:

Working on emotion regulating strategies in a post-pandemic world, when people
have inadequate control over the background of negative emotions, could be a future treatment
strategy. Long-term studies with a larger sample size are essential to assess the long-term consequences
of the blockade on patients and their healthcare providers and identify useful strategies
to improve clinical management.
Exploring Dental Students’ Perceptions of Mental Illness to Address Unmet Needs: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Zechner Michelle , Singhal Vaishali , Murphy Ann , Karyczak Sean
Published: April 2022

Background:

There is little information about dental students’ perceptions about providing care to people with serious mental illnesses (SMI), despite the significant oral health challenges of this population. Objective: This brief report aims to explore gaps in dental students’ knowledge and skills for providing oral health care to people with SMI, along with their attitudes about working with this underserved population.

Methods:

Post-graduate dental students in the United States at a large northeastern university were asked to provide feedback and responses to 5 open-ended questions prior to an educational module about working with people with SMI, and 22 anonymous responses were received. Qualitative content analysis was used to code responses using independent coding and consensus meetings.

Results:

Dental students expressed concerns about working with this population and felt unprepared to provide services to them. Seven themes were identified and coded into three primary categories: Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes. Codes representing dental student knowledge gaps included mental health literacy and professional role clarification. Skill deficits were coded as an adaptation of dental care practices, communication skills, crisis management, and management of care. Attitudes were coded as beliefs about people with SMI.

Conclusion:

Additional attention to mental illness in dental education could assist future professionals in their skills and knowledge to address the extensive unmet oral health needs of people with SMI.