bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
External labour migration as an object of public administration
Authors:   Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz, Syzdykbekov Yerzhan , Jazykbayeva Baldyrgan ,   Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz, Matayeva Botagoz ,   Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz, Rakhimova Saule ,   Toraighyrov University
Published: November 2021

External labour migration reflects the consequences of the implemented public policy reforms. Kazakhstan, as a country with a vulnerable and extremely unstable economy, demonstrates the high sensitivity of the population to the complication of economic conditions due to public sector reforms. For a long time, the number of emigrants remains high and poses a threat to the country’s labour market. Due to the crisis phenomena in Kazakhstan, work migration processes are intensifying. They are an inevitable consequence of the deterioration of living standards and the difficulty of people’s ability to self-sufficiency in the context of an economic downturn while playing a balancing role and potentially beneficial for each country. However, it is very difficult to assess the real scale of Kazakh migration processes and their impact on the state of the national labour market. The study of migration processes in the context of globalization occupies an important place in the works of both scientists and practitioners in all countries of the world, and is also the subject of the activities of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Committee on Migration, and the World Health Organization. The aim of this study is to analyze the current situation of immigration from Kazakhstan and its impact on the economic processes in the state from the point of view of public administration. The close relationship between migration and economic development is confirmed in our study by significant historical experience. It is still indisputable today. However, at the present stage, the nature of this relationship is much more complex and multidimensional and quite often is not unambiguous. The versatility of modern migration processes in the context of global development makes it necessary to develop new conceptual approaches to the study of the problem of labour migration, which will allow the evolution of migration policy, neutralize the negative consequences and unlock the development potential inherent in labour migration.
Contemporary Issues in the Acquisition of Orthopaedic Surgical Skills During Residency
Authors: Myers Thomas G. , Marsh J. Lawrence , Nicandri Gregg , Gorczyca John , Pellegrini Vincent D.
Published: November 2021

➤ Orthopaedic education should produce surgeons who are competent to function independently and can obtain and maintain board certification.

➤ Contemporary orthopaedic training programs exist within a fixed 5-year time frame, which may not be a perfect match for each trainee.

➤ Most modern orthopaedic residencies have not yet fully adopted objective, proficiency-based, surgical skill training methods despite nearly 2 decades of evidence supporting the use of this methodology.

➤ Competency-based medical education backed by surgical simulation rooted in proficiency-based progression has the potential to address surgical skill acquisition challenges in orthopaedic surgery.
Development of MATLAB GUI Based on Blob Analysis for Automatic Extraction of Defects
Authors: Hong Kang , Yuan Lihua , Li Zhe
Published: November 2021

This study introduces a graphical user interface (GUI) based on MATLAB to realize the automatic ex-traction of sizes of defects from the infrared sequence. To obtain the edge of the defect at deeper layer, a fusion stratagem of the maximum of gray values is adopted for an image subset in the sequence. Blob analysis to the fusion image is used to obtain the general information of defects of a specimen including the distributions and numbers of defects. The frame image is determined for a certain defect according to the peak of the time history curve of sensitive region variance. It can yield a region of interest (ROI) to expand the blob in the selected frame and the defect can be acquired by image segmentation. The results show that through this GUI, a better thermal image can be selected from a set of infrared sequence diagrams for quantitative extraction of different buried depth defect areas, which realizes automatic defect extraction, and its relative error is within 5%. The research on infrared automatic detection technology has certain significance.
Molecular Modelling of nsSNPs in GABRA2 Gene in Epilepsy and Study of Their Impact On Structure and Stability of GABRA2 Protein
Authors: Agha Zehra , Azam Maleeha , Faryal Bushra
Published: November 2021

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by abrupt, unprovoked, and recurrent seizures that are unpredictable in frequency. The objective of this analysis was to identify novel non-synonymous polymorphisms in the GABRA2 gene and determine their effect on protein structure and stability. Most pathogenic/deleterious nsSNPs were predicted using six different bioinformatic tools. Mutpred2, Mupro was used to check the impact of identified nsSNPS on protein structure and stability. The pathogenic score of SNPs was predicted using the FATHMM tool. The CONSURF webserver was used for conservation analysis of pathogenic SNPs.3-D structure of the protein was realized using SWISS-MODEL and residue position in protein visualized by Lite Mol. GeneMANIA and STRING databases were used to predict the function of interlinked gene interactions. Out of 228 nsSNPs retrieved from the dbSNP database, we identified a novel missense variant, F285S (rs41310789), as most deleterious and its possible association with epilepsy syndrome focal epilepsy. Stability and conservation analysis results interpret rs41310789 present in evolutionarily conserved regions of a gene and affect its structure. This analysis provides information regarding the impact of nsSNPs that might affect the structure and activity of GABRA2 protein. Thus, these coding variants should be taken into scrutiny while genetic screening of epileptic patients.
WWOX Regulates UV/Cold Shock-Mediated Calcium Influx and Nuclear Bubbling in Frostbite
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Chang , Chen Szu-Jung , Deng Wen-Ting , Liu Tsung-Yun , Lee Kuan-Ting , Lee Ming-Hui , Lin Sing-Ru , Chen Yu-An , Wang Lu-Hai , Su Li-Jen , Sheu Hamm-Ming , Chang Nan-Shan
Published: November 2021

UV/cold shock-mediated frostbite involves non-apoptotic nuclear bubbling cell death (BCD) and participation of functional WWOX in cells (WWOXf). In contrast, cells with WWOX deficiency or dysfunction (WWOXd) undergo pop-out explosion death (POD). Here, by time-lapse microscopy, when WWOXf cells were exposed to UV or UV/cold shock and then incubated at room temperature, these cells rapidly and sequentially underwent: 1) loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, 2) formation of a nitric oxide (NO)-containing nuclear bubble per cell, 3) WWOX-dependent increase in calcium (Ca2+) influx, 4) shutdown of mRNA and protein synthesis machinery, as determined by RT/PCR and gene chip analysis, and 5) eventual cell death without caspase activation, stress fiber formation and chromosomal DNA fragmentation. In contrast, WWOXd cells exhibited a faster kinetics of stress fiber formation, explosion and death without NO production. Ectopic WWOX restored calcium influx and nuclear bubbling in WWOXd cells. In hairless mice, UV/cold shock rapidly downregulated protein expression in the skin and then liver, which may lead to organ damages. UV/cold shock induced complex formation of antiapoptotic TRAF2 and proapoptotic WWOX and their co-translocation to the nucleus, where the complex dissociation occurred. The observations suggest that WWOX and TRAF2 dissociation is needed for nuclear bubbling and death.
Dual Targeting of FGFR3 and ERBB3 Enhances The Efficacy of FGFR Inhibitors in FGFR3 Fusion-Driven Bladder Cancer
Authors: Weickhardt Andrew J , Lau David K , Hodgson-Garms Margeaux , Lavis Austen , Jenkins Laura J , Vukelic Natalia , Ioannidis Paul , Luk Ian Y , Mariadason John M.
Published: November 2021

Background

Mutations and fusions in Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 3 (FGFR3) occur in 10-20% of metastatic urothelial carcinomas and confers sensitivity to FGFR inhibitors. However, responses to these agents are often short-lived due to the development of acquired resistance. The objective of this study was to identify mechanisms of resistance to FGFR inhibitors in two previously uncharacterised bladder cancer cell lines harbouring FGFR3 fusions and assess rational combination therapies to enhance sensitivity to these agents.
Methods

Acquired resistance to FGFR inhibitors was generated in two FGFR3 fusion harbouring cell lines, SW780 (FGFR3-BAIAP2L1 fusion) and RT4 (FGFR3-TACC3 fusion), by long-term exposure to the FGFR inhibitor BGJ398. Changes in levels of receptor tyrosine kinases were assessed by phospho-RTK arrays and immunoblotting. Changes in cell viability and proliferation were assessed by the Cell-Titre Glo assay and by propidium iodide staining and FACS analysis.
Results

Long term treatment of FGFR3-fusion harbouring SW780 and RT4 bladder cancer cell lines with the BGJ398 resulted in the establishment of resistant clones. These clones were cross-resistant to the clinically approved FGFR inhibitor erdafitinib and the covalently binding irreversible FGFR inhibitor TAS-120, but remained sensitive to the MEK inhibitor trametinib, indicating resistance is mediated by alternate activation of MAPK signalling. The FGFR inhibitor-resistant SW780 and RT4 lines displayed increased expression of pERBB3, and strikingly, combination treatment with an FGFR inhibitor and the ATP-competitive pan-ERBB inhibitor AZD8931 overcame this resistance. Notably, rapid induction of pERBB3 and reactivation of pERK also occurred in parental FGFR3 fusion-driven lines within 24 hours of FGFR inhibitor treatment, and combination treatment with an FGFR inhibitor and AZD8931 delayed the reactivation of pERBB3 and pERK and synergistically inhibited cell proliferation.
Conclusions

We demonstrate that increased expression of pERBB3 is a key mechanism of adaptive resistance to FGFR inhibitors in FGFR3-fusion driven bladder cancers, and that this also occurs rapidly following FGFR inhibitor treatment. Our findings demonstrate that resistance can be overcome by combination treatment with a pan-ERBB inhibitor and suggest that upfront combination treatment with FGFR and pan-ERBB inhibitors warrants further investigation for FGFR3-fusion harbouring bladder cancers.
Alteration Functional and Effective Connectivity Between Visual and Attention-Networks in Cognitively Impaired Patients With Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Jiang Yanchun , Zhang Yanbo , Nie Liluo , Liu Huihua , Zheng Jinou
Published: November 2021

Purpose: This paper examines the changes in functional connectivity (FC) and effective connectivity (EC) of the visual (VIS)-network and attention network (AN) in patients with cognitive impairment caused by temporal lobe epilepsy (CI-TLE) through independent component analysis (ICA) and Granger causality analysis (GCA).Material and methods: Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging（rs-fMRI）data and Montreal cognitive assessment（CoMA） were collected from 32 patients with CI-TLE and 29 age-matched healthy controls.Results: In the VIS network of CI-TLE patients, FC decreased in the right inferior occipital gyrus (IOG) and the left lingual gyrus (LG) and in the right temporal-parietal junction (TPJ) in the Doral attention network (DAN). FC increased in the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and right precuneus gyrus (PG). In the DAN, FC decreased in the left superior parietal gyrus (SPG) and right inferior parietal gyrus (LG). GCA revealed the decreased EC from the left LG to the right IOG within the VIS network and from the right inferior parietal gyrus (IPG) of the DAN to the left LG of the VIS network. In contrast, CI-TLE patients demonstrated increased EC from the right SPG to the right IPG within DAN，and from the right IPG of the DAN to the right TPJ of the VAN, and from the right TPJ to the left PG within VAN. Compared with healthy controls , Voxel-wise GCA in CI-TLE patients showed positive EC from the left LG to the right SPG. In contrast, increased EC was exhibited from the right TPJ to the right caudate. Pearson analysis showed a negative correlation between the CoMA scores and GC values from the right IPG to the right TPJ.Conclusion: The results indicate intrinsic brain network connectivity dysfunction in CI-TLE patients and the causal connection abnormality in the resting-state VIS network and AN. Also, it was found that CI-TLE patients possibly have a compensatory mechanism in the above networks. These findings shed new insights on the neuroimaging marker of CI-TLE.
The dropout rate and associated factors of the continuum of maternal health care services before and during Covid-19 Pandemic among women who gave birth in the last two years in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2021. A comparative cross-sectional study design
Authors: Desta Dawit Zenamarkos , Kebede Adane , Merid Mehari Woldemariam , Negash Wubshet Debebe , Asmamaw Desale Bihonegn
Published: November 2021

Background
A continuum of maternal health care is the continuity of care during pregnancy, delivery, and post-delivery period. However, the dropout rate of the continuum care and factors associated with it during the COVID-19 pandemic were not well documented in the study setting. Hence, this study was used to assess the dropout rate and associated factors of the continuum of care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 630 women who gave birth in the last two years in Addis Ababa. An interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to collect the data. The Epi data version 4.6 and STATA version 14 statistical Softwares were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Binary logistic regression model was used to identify associated factors of the dropout rate of a continuum of care.
Result
The dropout rate of the continuum of maternal healthcare was 58.39% (95% CI: 52.56-64.00) and 73.24% (95% CI: 67.91-77.98) before and during the covid-19 pandemic respectively. Women who had no information about PNC (AOR =1.88, 95% CI: 1.01-3.50), not received appropriate care (AOR = 3.92, 95% CI: 1.84-8.37), no information about maternal health care (AOR=2.57, 95% CI: 1.28-5.16), birth preparedness and complication readiness (AOR=0.47, 95% CI: 0.26-0.86), and had history of pregnancy-related complications (AOR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.17-3.68), were dropped out from continuum of care during the covid-19 pandemic. whereas, unplanned pregnancy (AOR= 3.35, 95% CI: 1.60-7.04), not know postpartum danger signs (AOR=1.79,95% CI: 1.03-3.12), and no information about maternal health care (AOR= 1.85, 95% CI: 1.06-3.23) were dropped out from continuum of care before covid-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
This study underscores nearly three fourth and more than half of women during and before the covid-19 pandemic dropped out from the continuum of care, respectively. Information about maternal health care, birth preparedness and complication readiness, information about PNC, and knowing postpartum danger signs were significantly associated with the dropout rate of the continuum of care. Thus, adapting policy that supports service delivery modification during such pandemic, promoting birth preparedness and complication readiness is very crucial.
Differential Gene -Based Predictors of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Efficacy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Lu Mei , Zou JieYa , Guo Rong , Yang XiaoJuan , Wang Ji , Zhang Qian , Deng XuePeng , Tao JianFen , Nie JianYun , Yang ZhuangQing
Published: November 2021

Background and objectiveChemotherapy is the most common treatment in breast cancer , and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is wildly used because of it’s efficiency and safety. To identify significantly differentially expressed genes and select the most suitable breast cancer patients for neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) before treatment. MethodsWe collected a total of 60 breast cancer patient samples before and after NAC. All the samples were subjected to high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Then , we identified AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ, and AKAP12 as candidate genes related to tumour chemotherapeutic resistance. Next, we analysed the expression levels of AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ, and AKAP12 by logistic regression and based on the result, we constructed a predictive model visualized by a nomogram. ResultsThe RNA-seq results show that AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ and AKAP12 are upregulated in residual disease after NAC (P<0.05), and compared with the pathological complete response (pCR) group, the non-pCR group presented high AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ and AKAP12 expression levels (P<0.05). Logistic analysis showed that high AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ and AKAP12 expression levels significantly reduced the pCR rate of NAC for breast cancer (P<0.05). In addition, our prediction model , which included AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ and AKAP12 , showed a good fitting effect with the H1 test (χ2=6.3967, P=0.4945) and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (area under the curve (AUC) 0.8249, 95% CI 0.722–0.9271). ConclusionHigh expression of AHNAK, CIDEA, ADIPOQ and AKAP12 indicates poor treatment response in breast cancer patients treated with NAC . The efficacy prediction model based on these results is expected to be a new method to select the optimal population of breast cancer patients for NAC.
A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Neuroendocrine Cervical Tumors
Authors: Lin Yingtao , Chen Ying , He Haixin , Chen Jian
Published: November 2021

Purpose. This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of neoadjuvant therapy in combination with surgery and adjuvant therapy compared with either surgery alone or surgery plus adjuvant therapy for the treatment of neuroendocrine cervical tumors (NETs). Materials and methods. A single-institution retrospective analysis of 107 patients with NETs was performed based on the new International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO 2018) staging system. We divided the patients who underwent radical surgery into two groups: neoadjuvant therapy (NACT) and non-neoadjuvant therapy (non-NACT) groups. We performed subgroup analysis of overall survival and cost-effectiveness by dividing the patients with stage I-IV disease into four subgroups. An assessment was constructed to reflect the costs and effectiveness of the treatment from the perspectives of both clinical practice and health economics.Results. The NACT group had -0.45 life-years (LYs) at an incremental cost of $15197.58, compared with the non-NACT group, which means that it is not cost-effective. However, subgroup analysis of patients with stage II disease showed that the NACT group had significantly better overall survival time than the non-NACT group (median overall survival had not been reached versus 29.23 months, p＜0.001). The NACT group had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $5921.43/LY compared with the non-NACT group for stage II disease. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses showed that when the willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold reached $31118.29/LY, which is nearly three times China's per capita GDP 2020, the probability of NACT being cost-effective was 97% versus non-NACT group in the treatment of stage II neuroendocrine tumors of the uterine cervix. Conclusion. NACT is not a cost-effective treatment strategy compared with non-NACT in the treatment of NETs, but may be a cost-effective treatment option for stage II NETs.
Time-Dependent Effects of Exposure to Nature and Perceived Behavioral Control over Social Distancing in Shared Open Spaces on Psychological Distress of Residents during Pandemic of COVID-19
Authors: Mousavinia Seyyedeh Fatemeh
Published: November 2021

Background: Further research into the influence of the COVID-19 epidemic on mental health is needed. Some research has highlighted the positive effects of nature exposure on mental health, as well as the importance of subjective assessments of green spaces. Methods: Considering both private and semi-public environments, the current longitudinal study examines the moderating effects of exposure to nature and perceived behavioral control over social distancing on the relationship between perceived interior crowding, social isolation, and psychological distress. Finally, it investigates whether these connections change through time. During the Iranian national lockdowns, data from 718 middle-aged women who completed an online questionnaire survey in two waves were used. Results and Conclusion: The findings of structural equation modeling back up the idea that social isolation plays a key role in the association between perceived interior crowding and psychological distress. Multi-Group Analysis revealed that exposure to nature reduced the negative effects of perceived interior crowding on psychological distress, as predicted. Nevertheless, this relationship is time-dependent and nature exposure during the time did not necessarily assist in reducing negative impacts. The current research adds to the body of knowledge by identifying perceived behavioral control as a buffer against the adverse effects of social isolation on psychological distress over time. These findings provide for a better understanding of psychological processes and could help in the promotion of design policies in the event of a pandemic.
Mapping Trends and Hot-spots of Virtual Simulation Research in Nursing: a Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen Jia , Liu Jing
Published: November 2021

Background: Virtual simulation has been widely used in nursing education and nursing training. This study aims to characterize publications in terms of countries, institutions, journals, authors, and collaboration relationships, and analyze the trends and hot-spots of virtual simulation in nursing.Methods: Publications concerning virtual simulation in nursing were retrieved from Web of Science. Microsoft Excel 2010, VOSviewer, and Citespace were used to analyze the characteristics of this field. Results: We identified 611 papers between 1999 and 2021. The number of publications grew slowly until 2019, and got a sharp increase in 2020 and 2021. The USA, Canada and Australia were three key contributors to this field. Centennial College, University of Ottawa, and Ryerson University were three major institutions with a larger number of publications. Verkuyl M was the most productive and highest cited author. Clinical Simulation in Nursing, Nurse Education Today, Journal of Nursing Education were the three productive journals. "virtual patients," "nursing students," "clinical simulation," and "communication skills" were the frontier topics in recent years.Conclusion: Virtual patients simulated more clinical situations to train nursing students, developing more reliable and objective assessment methods to validate learning outcomes might be the recent and future hot-topics.
Effect of Mechanical Ventilation During Cardiopulmonary Bypass On End-Expiratory Lung Volume in The Perioperative Period of Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Trancart Lea , Rey Nathalie , Scherrer Vincent , Wurtz Véronique , Bauer Fabrice , Aludaat Chadi , Demailly Zoe , Selim Jean , Compère Vincent , Clavier Thomas , Besnier Emmanuel
Published: November 2021

Background

Many studies explored the impact of ventilation during cardiopulmonary bypass period. However, its effect on Functional residual capacity or End Expiratory Lung Volume (EELV) has not been specifically studied. Our objective was to compare the effect of two ventilation strategies during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on EELV.
Methods

observational monocenter study in a tertiary teaching hospital. Adult patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery by sternotomy were included and ventilated on the GE Carescape R860® ventilator. Maintenance of ventilation during CPB was left to the discretion of the medical team, with division between "ventilated" and "non-ventilated" groups afterwards. Iterative per and postoperative measurements of EELV were carried out by nitrogen washin-washout technique.
Results

40 patients were included, 20 in each group. EELV was not significantly different between the ventilated versus non-ventilated groups at the end of surgery (1796±586ml vs. 1844±524ml; p=1). No significant difference between the two groups was observed on oxygenation, duration of mechanical ventilation, need postoperative respiratory support, occurrence of pneumopathy and radiographic atelectasis.
Conclusion

Maintaining mechanical ventilation during CPB does not seem to allow a better preservation of EELV in our population.
Energy-ecological Efficiency of Dual-Fuel Serie Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Considering WTW Emissions
Authors: Soares Laene Oliveira , de Moraes Danielle Rodrigues , Hernández-Callejo Luis , Boloy Ronney Arismel Mancebo
Published: November 2021

This paper discussed the possibility of replacing the series plug-in hybrid electric vehicle using the single-fuel spark-ignition engine (SFSIE) fuelled with gasoline A and Brazilian gasoline by the series plug-in hybrid electric vehicle fuelled with 50% bioethanol and 50% biogas in dual-fuel mode. The simulation of bioethanol, biogas and gasoline A combustion were carried out through GASEQ software to calculate the energy-ecological efficiency of the SFSIE and the dual-fuel spark ignition engine (DFSIE). The well-to-pump (WTP) emissions of the sugarcane bioethanol and biogas production pathway were evaluated through GREET software. The tank-to-wheel (TTW) emissions were determined to each series PHEV operating modes. Thus, the well-to-wheel emissions were calculated through the sum of the WTP, TTW and electricity mix emissions. The results showed that the energy-ecological efficiency for the DFSIE was 10.7% and 24.1% higher than that found for SFSIE fuelled with gasoline and Brazilian gasoline, respectively. The losses during the biogas production aggravate linearly the WTP emissions, and consequently the WTW emissions of the series PHEV. Besides that, the DFSIE presented 15.5% and 12.8 less TTW emissions than the SFSIE fuelled with gasoline A and Brazilian gasoline, respectively. Comparing to the emission standards, the DFSIE presented TTW emissions 30.5% higher than the EU emission standard by 2021. Although the DFSIE does not meet none of the emission standards, this engine mode can be an alternative to at least reduce the tailpipe emissions.
Development and Validation of a Cloak-Shaped Device for Sham Pediatric Tuina: a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Cai Jianxiong , Dai Lin , Yin Lingjia , Lu Taoying , Wang Li , Zhang Yongping , Zhang Huiyan , Zhu Conghao , Li Meiling , Wu Darong
Published: November 2021

Background: To date, no well-recognized placebo device or procedure for pediatric Tuina (PT) has been reported. We developed a cloak-shaped device and designed an RCT to detect whether the device is effective as a placebo in PT research.Methods: It was a two-arm, parallel-group RCT design. Children were randomly assigned to the genuine Tuina or sham Tuina group at a 1:1 ratio. The genuine and sham Tuina interventions were delivered using the same standardized procedure by adopting a cloak-shaped device. The primary outcomes were the judgement rates of the type of Tuina that participants received based on caregivers’ and observers’evaluations. The analysis explored whether parents' attitude towards PT was related to their judgment rate.Results: A total of 60 participants were enrolled (37 boys [61.7%]; 16.0[2.3] months). Thirty children received genuine PT, and 30 received sham PT. There was no significant difference in parents' judgment of the interventions received between the two groups (χ2=0.65,P=0.421) or based on observers' judgments (χ2=0.07, P=0.795). In terms of parents' attitude towards PT or compliance with PT, parents whose children were in the genuine Tuina group were not significantly different from those in the sham group(z=0.01, P=0.99; z=0.34, P=0.73). Of the participants in the sham group, none of their parents recorded receiving the sham intervention.Conclusions: The placebo device for sham PT was found to be a credible control for PT. This study supports its use in prospective, sham-controlled, randomized trials.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03474172. Registered in March 2018.
Structural Analysis of Molds with Conformal Cooling Channels: A Numerical Study
Authors: Silva Hugo Miguel , Noversa Tiago , Rodrigues Hugo , Fernandes Leandro , Pontes António
Published: November 2021

The manufacturing of Conformal cooling channels (CCC’s) is now easier and more affordable, owing to the recent developments in the field of additive manufacturing. The use of CCC’s allows better cooling performances than the conventional (straight-drilled) channels, in the injection molding process. The main reason is that CCC’s can follow the pathways of the molded geometry, while the conventional channels, manufactured by traditional machining techniques, are not able to. Using CCCs can significantly improve the cycle time, allow to obtain a more uniform temperature distribution, and reduce thermal stresses and warpage. However, the design process for CCC is more complex than for conventional channels. Computer-aided engineering (CAE) simulations are important for achieving effective and affordable design. This article presents important results regarding molds with new conformal cooling channels geometries. The aim is to assess the maximum pressure that the parts can be subjected to in a real injection molding application. Linear structural analyses are carried over in the Finite Element Method Software ANSYS Workbench 2020 R2, in order to analyze both the resistance and stiffness behavior of the studied geometries. The results are analyzed according to several metrics. The results were discussed and it could be concluded that some of the structures are suitable for the typical operating conditions of the injection molding process.
Introduction to the native plant species with phytoremediation potential growing in a high Fe and Zn contaminated site in the copper mine of Dehmadan, Iran
Authors: Hajihashemi Shokoofeh , Rajabpoor Shakiba , Brestic Marian
Published: November 2021

Mining activity is one main source of heavy metal pollution. In this study, Al, Ba, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Ce, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ga, Gd, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Nb, Nd, Ni, P, Pb, S, Sc, Si, Sr, Ti, V, Y, Zn and Zr were measured by ICP-OES analyzing of the soils taken in the Dehmadan mining area, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Iran. Al, Fe, Cu, Si and Zn were the most frequent metals in the mining area. Phytoremediation is one of the eco-friendly methods to effectively remediate soils contaminated with heavy metals. Consequently, the wild plants were collected from the mining area and subjected to ICP-OES analysis to determine the elements concentrations. A reverse relation was observed between the metals concentrations and vegetation density in the mining area. Finally, the bioconcentration factor (BCF) of the root and shoot, and translocation factor (TF) were determined to assess phytoremediation potential of species. The shoot elements concentrations in combination with BCF and TF greater than 1 were assess to determine hyperaccumulators and plants with excluder potential. Overall, the results showed that BCF in parallel with TF and metals concentrations can advance the knowledge of recognizing hyperaccumulators for phytoremediation of polluted environment.
The pronounced decline of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike trimeric IgG and RBD IgG in baseline seronegative individuals 6 months after BNT162b2 vaccination is consistent with the need for vaccine boosters
Authors: Salvagno Gian Luca , Henry Brandon M. , Pighi Laura , De Nitto Simone , Gianfilippi Gianluca , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: November 2021

Background: This observational retrospective study aimed to define the kinetics of serum levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) spike trimeric and anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG antibodies up to 6 months after BNT162b2 vaccination. Methods: The sample consisted of 86 SARS-CoV-2 baseline seronegative subjects (median age 45 years, IQR 31-53 years; 52.3% females) undergoing vaccination with Pfizer/BioNTech BNT162b2. Blood was drawn before receiving the first and the second vaccine dose, as well as 1, 3 and 6 months after the second vaccine dose. The serum levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike trimeric IgG and RBD IgG antibodies were assayed.Results: The peak of both antibodies types was reached 1 month after the second dose (2808 and 2163 BAU/mL for anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike trimeric IgG and RBD IgG), after which serum levels progressively declined, falling after 6 months to 486 BAU/mL and 167 BAU/mL for anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike trimeric IgG and RBD IgG, respectively. The median rate of 6-month decline was 85% and 93% for anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike trimeric IgG and RBD IgG, respectively. The rate of vaccine recipients with serum antibodies levels above the 80% threshold of vaccine efficacy declined from over 95% at the peak to 72% and 5% at 6 months for anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike trimeric IgG and RBD IgG, respectively.Conclusions: The results of this retrospective observational study are consistent with the need for timely administration of vaccine boosters to prevent that humoral immunity will wane.
Temperate Regenerative Agriculture; a win-win for soil carbon and crop yield?
Authors: Jordon Matthew , Willis Kathy , Bürkner Paul-Christian , Haddaway Neal , Smith Pete , Petrokofsky Gillian
Published: November 2021

Regenerative Agriculture proposes to contribute to climate change mitigation and increased food production through improved yields by building soil organic carbon (SOC). We examine three Regenerative practices: reducing tillage intensity, cover cropping and including a grass-based phase in arable rotations (ley-arable systems). Our Bayesian meta-analysis of 195 paired SOC and crop yield observations from published studies finds statistically significant increases in SOC concentration for reduced tillage intensity (0.06 g C.100g-1) and ley-arable systems (0.05 g C.100-1g per year of ley) compared to conventional practice over an average study duration of 15 years, but no effect of cover crops. None of these practices come at a cost to yield during cropping years. However, we find no evidence of a win-win between soil carbon sequestration and enhanced agricultural productivity. Further, the small magnitude of SOC increases suggests a limited role for these Regenerative practices in climate change mitigation strategies in temperate regions.
Chemical exposures affect innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Arowolo Olatunbosun , Pobezinsky Leonid , Suvorov Alexander
Published: November 2021

Severe outcomes of COVID-19 are associated with pathological response of the immune system to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging evidence suggests that interaction may exist between COVID-19 pathogenesis and a broad range of xenobiotics, resulting in significant increases in death rates in highly exposed populations. Therefore, a better understanding of the molecular basis of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 infection and chemical exposures may open opportunities for better preventive and therapeutic interventions. We attempted to gain mechanistic knowledge on the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 infection and chemical exposures using in-silico approach, where we identified genes and molecular pathways affected by both chemical exposures and SARS-CoV-2 in human immune cells (T-cells, B-cells, NK-cells, dendritic, and monocyte cells). Our findings demonstrate for the first time that overlapping molecular mechanisms affected by a broad range of chemical exposures and COVID-19 are linked to IFN type I/II signaling pathways and the process of antigen presentation. Based on our data, we also predict that exposures to various chemical compounds will predominantly impact the population of monocytes during the response against COVID-19.
Sleep Disturbances and Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms During Pregnancy: Associations With Delivery and Newborn Health
Authors: Peltonen Hilla Maaria , Paavonen Ella Juulia , Saarenpää-Heikkilä Outi , Vahlberg Tero , Paunio Tiina , Polo-Kantola Päivi
Published: November 2021

Background: Sleep disturbances and mood symptoms are common in late pregnancy and according to previous literature, they can affect delivery and newborn outcomes. This study evaluated the effect of sleep and mood symptoms on delivery and newborn health as there is insufficient and partly contradictory studies on the topic.Methods: A cohort of 1414 mothers was enrolled in the third trimester to this prospective cross-sectional questionnaire study. Validated questionnaires were assessed for measurement of sleep disturbances, depressive and anxiety symptoms. The data on delivery and newborn outcomes was obtained from hospital medical records.Results. Sleep disturbances were very common during pregnancy. Higher insomnia score (β = -0.06, p = 0.047) and longer sleep need (β = 0.07, p = 0.047) were related to delivery at a lower gestational age. In addition, higher insomnia score (β = -28.30, p = 0.010) and lower general sleep quality (β = -62.15, p = 0.025) were associated with lower birth weight, but instead, longer sleep duration and longer sleep need with higher birth weight (β = 28.06, p = 0.019; β = 27.61, p = 0.028, respectively). However, the findings regarding birth weight lost their significance when the birth weight was standardized with gestational weeks. Concerning Apgar scores and the umbilical artery pH, no associations were found. Snoring was associated with a shorter duration of the 1st phase (β = -78.71, p = 0.015) and total duration of delivery (β = -79.85, p = 0.016). Mothers with higher insomnia, depressive or anxiety symptoms were more often treated with oxytocin (OR 1.54 95% CI 1.00-2.38, p = 0.049, OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.02-3.04, p = 0.049 and OR 1.91, CI 95% 1.28-2.84, p < 0.001, respectively) and those with higher depressive and anxiety symptoms delivered more often with elective caesarean section (OR 4.67, 95% CI 2.04-12.68, p < 0.001 and OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.03-4.79, p = 0.042).Conclusions: Maternal sleep disturbances and mood symptoms during pregnancy are associated with delivery and newborn health. However, nearly all the outcomes fell within a normal range, implying that the actual risks are low.
Immunopreventable Diseases: Differences Between Genders in Brazil
Authors: Costa Élide Sbardellotto Mariano da , Hyeda Adriano , Maluf Eliane M C P
Published: November 2021

Immunopreventable diseases are a public health reality in Brazil and worldwide. The international literature defined that there is difference between sexes at the answer to the infectious diseases. Objective: to discriminate the hospitalizations associated with immunopreventable diseases in Brazil and their care costs, within the scope of the SUS, between 2008 and 2018, differentiating the data by gender. Methods: A population, observational, descriptive, retrospective study was conducted with secondary information from DATASUS. Results: A total of 457,479 hospitalizations were evaluated, totaling a direct cost of R$389,243,264.85, 53.17% in males and 46.83% in the female group (p-value 0.036). The trend analysis showed 6 diseases in decreasing situation (with statistical significance) and 4 in stationary tendency in the number of hospitalizations in the analyzed period. The direct costs of these hospitalizations were predominantly stationary for both sexes. Conclusions: the number of hospitalizations varied during the period analyzed, however the care costs of Immunopreventable diseases hospitalizations remained high, regardless of gender.
Use of Dantrolene and Ativan to Treat Overlapping Diagnosis NMS Versus Malignant Catatonia Case Report
Authors: Garcia-Baran Dynela , Collier Sam , Ortiz Alejandro
Published: November 2021

We present a case report of a patient who developed symptoms resembling malignant catatonia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Suspicion of neuroleptic malignant syndrome arose after treatment over his course of hospital stay with three different second-generation antipsychotics for a first-time bipolar type I manic episode. After a hospital stay of 5 days, the patient developed symptoms that could be interpreted as malignant catatonia or neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Administration of antipsychotics was immediately ceased, and the patient was transferred to the ICU where he was treated with dantrolene and higher dosages of Ativan. The patient improved after simultaneous intervention for both possible diagnoses. After approximately one month, quetiapine, one of the second generation antipsychotics previously prescribed, was restarted with good results and no reoccurrence of NMS or malignant catatonia. This case illustrates the potential dilemma faced when differentiation between the two obscure diagnoses is necessary. Diagnosis is typically established through clinical observation and monitoring of symptom evolution after the administration of neuroleptics. The treatment algorithms for each diagnosis vary as can the respective outcomes. Our case also highlights the dearth of research available on distinguishing neuropathologic psychiatric disorders from pathophysiologic psychomotor syndromes. It also focuses on the need for sound diagnostic scoring scales that will clarify the diagnostic picture as well as treatment guidelines to ensure best outcomes.
Changes in Objectively Measured Lifestyle Factors During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Ataka Takuya , Kimura Noriyuki , Eguchi Atsuko , Matsubara Etsuro
Published: November 2021

Background: In this manuscript, we aimed at investigating whether objectively measured lifestyle factors, including walking steps, sedentary time, amount of unforced physical activity, level of slight and energetic physical activity, conversation time, and sleep parameters altered before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among community-dwelling older adults.Methods: Data were obtained from a prospective cohort study conducted from 2015 to 2019 and a subsequent dementia prevention study undertaken in September 2020. Community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years wore wearable sensors before and during the pandemic.Results: A total of 56 adults were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 74.2±3.9 years, and 58.9% (n=33) of the participants were female. The moderate and vigorous physical activity time significantly decreased and sedentary time significantly increased during the pandemic. Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate differences in objectively assessed lifestyle factors before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among community-dwelling older adults. The findings show that the pandemic has adversely affected physical activity among older adults living on their own in Japan.
Comparative Study of Outcomes by Surgical Procedures and Monocular Elevation Deficiency Syndrome in Indian Population
Authors: Shah Shreya , Shah Mehul A , Makhloga Shkshi , Korane Ashvini , Sanghani Meera
Published: November 2021

Introduction:Monocular elevation deficiency syndrome (MEDS) is a monocular elevation deficiency in abduction and adduction characterised by the hypofunction of superior rectus (SR) and inferior oblique muscles. Only a limited number of studies are published on the management of this problem. Herein, the indications and types of surgery for monocular elevation deficiency syndrome are reported.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, all MEDS patients reported during 2010 to 2020 were retrieved from Electronic Medical Records after approval from the Hospital Ethical Committees. The data were exported in a pre-tested online format. The demographic and clinical information and data of surgeries, including strabismus and ptosis, were reported. The follow-up data were collected in a specific format. Strabismus was managed using Knapp procedure, Inferior Rectus recession and a combination of both approaches. Ptosis was corrected by Levator Palpebral Superioris (LPS) resection and brow suspension. The data were analysed using SPSS 22 based on descriptive analysis and cross-tabulation.Results: The cohort consists of 62 cases (females 26, males 36) of patients with mean age 17.00±12.31 years 40/62 cases comprised the paediatric age group. Knapp was carried out in 39, IR recession was carried out in 35, and combined Knapp+IR recession was performed in 17 cases based on FDT and FGT data. The comparative study found significant difference amongst these techniques (P=0.04). Ptosis correction was carried out by LPS resection in 21 and brow suspension in 23 cases depending on LPS function. This comparative study did not find any significant difference in the results (P=0.234).Conclusion: MEDS is a rare disease with various clinical features. The surgical management of strabismus may have more success for the combined technique than for those applied alone.
Potential Application of Fusarium Fungal Strains (Fusarium sp. FP, Arthrinium sp. FB and Phoma sp. FR) for Removal of Tl(I) Ions from Water
Authors: Mo Jianying , Liu Yonghui , Gao Xiaoning , Zhou Shuyi , Deng Yirong , Ke Yanyang , Peng Lihu , Li Huosheng , Chen Sihao , Long Jianyou
Published: November 2021

Water pollution caused by heavy metals poses a serious threat to the ecosystem and human survival safety and becomes a major obstacle to human health, economic and socially sustainable development. Among the various treatment techniques for water remediation, adsorption is an efficient method due to its high capacity, low cost, and simplicity. Thallium (Tl) is highly toxic to mammals and its removal from water is gaining increasingly prominent attention. In this study, three fungal strains (Fusarium sp. FP, Arthrinium sp. FB and Phoma sp. FR) were tested for removal of Tl(I) from an aqueous solution and showed excellent removal performance. The prepared inactive fungal strains were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, and XPS analysis. The effects of pH, contact time, biomass and reaction temperature on the removal efficiency of Tl(I) were systematically investigated. The results indicated that the adsorption isotherm data fit well with the Langmuir model, and the pseudo-second-order model was more consistent with the kinetic data description. The maximum adsorption capacity of the fungal strain (Fusarium sp. FP, Arthrinium sp. FB and Phoma sp. FR) for Tl(I) was found to be 94.69 mg/g, 66.97 mg/g and 52.98 mg/g, respectively. The thermodynamic data showed that the sorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The present study showed that the inactive fungal strains could be a promising adsorbent material for Tl(I) removal.
Clean and Efficient Synthesis of High-Quality Silica From Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Baoyu Tang , Long Zhang , Zaiqian Yu
Published: November 2021

Rice husk ash derived from the rice husk, a renewable waste biomass resource from rice production can be used to produce high value-added silica materials with various applications. But present technologies suffer the shortages of using inorganic acid as the precipitating agent, complex salt-containing wastewater post-treatment, higher production cost, lower product quality, and without the recycling of process additives. In this paper, improved clean chemical precipitation characterizing of recycling the by-product and surfactant used is developed with the highest silica product yield of 99.3%, pore size (21-35 nm), and specific surface area (196-462 m2/g). After the by-product solution is reused 5 times, the yield of silica can still reach 99.1%. The recovery yield of surfactant is 95.3%. The properties of the prepared silica meet the standard of silica for specific applications. The process characterized the recycling of the by-product and surfactant in the process, greener CO2 precipitant, ensuring the greenness, process efficiency, and low production cost. This opens up a new industrialization practical way for up-grading utilization of waste biomass and CO2 containing industrial effluents.