bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MODILM: Towards Better Complex Diseases Classification Using a Novel Multi-omics Data Integration Learning Model
Authors: Zhong Yating , Peng Yuzhong , Lin Yanmei , Chen Dingjia , Zheng Wen , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhang Hao
Published: January 2023

Background
Complex disease classification is an important part of the complex disease diagnosis and personalized treatment process. It has been shown that the integration of multi-omics data can analyze and classify complex diseases more accurately, because multi-omics data are highly correlated with the onset and progression of various diseases and can provide comprehensive and complementary information about a disease. However, multi-omics data of complex diseases are usually characterized by high imbalance, scale variation, high data heterogeneity and high noise interference, which pose great challenges to multi-omics integration methods.
Results
We propose a novel multi-omics data integration learning model called MODILM, to obtain more important and complementary information for complex disease classification from multiple omics data. Specifically, MODILM first initially constructs a similarity network for each omics data using cosine similarity measure, then learns the sample-specific features and intra-association features of single-omics data from the similarity networks using Graph Attention Networks, then maps them uniformly to a new feature space to further strengthen and extract high-level omics-specific features of the omics data using Multilayer Perceptron networks. MODILM then uses a View Correlation Discovery Network to fuse the high-level omics-specific features extracted from each omics data and further learn cross-omics features in the label space, providing unique class-level distinctiveness to classify complex diseases. We conducted extensive experiments on six benchmark datasets having the miRNA expression data, mRNA and DNA methylation data to demonstrate the superiority of our MODILM. The experimental results show that MODILM outperforms state-of-the-art methods, effectively improving the accuracy of complex disease classification.
Conclusions
Our MODILM provides a more competitive way to extract and integrate important and complementary information from multiple omics data, providing a very promising tool for supporting decision making for clinical diagnosis.
Heuristic Evaluation of adverse drug reaction reporting System
Authors: Meraji Marziyhe , Bameri Haniyeh , Ebnehoseini Zahra , Ramezanghorbani Nahid
Published: January 2023

Background
Adverse drug reactions as an ongoing public health issue, affects various aspects of society. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive study of usability and to evaluate usability of National Adverse Drug Reactions Reporting System.
Methods
This study was descriptive and cross-sectional. The National Adverse Drug Reactions Reporting System was evaluated based on the Pierotti heuristic evaluation checklist by seven experts. Every experts completed a heuristic evaluation checklist. The experts also measured the overall severity of each identified heuristic violation on a scale of 0 to 4, where 0 illustrates no problems and 4 illustrates a usability difficulties. Experts' views were extracted and the severity of each problem were analyzed and determined.
Results
A total of 265 problems were identified in the usability of this system. The severity of the problems that were identified according to the defined criteria were: severe problems 10 (3.9%), minor problems 135 (52.7%), Improvable but not necessary 120 (46.87%), and according to the evaluators major and technical problems were zero. The mean range of difficulty was between 1.03 and 8.56. The principle of “Flexibility and minimalist design " had the highest level of severity of the problem.
Conclusion
It is expected that the national adverse drug reaction reporting System will be reviewed again based on the needs of users, standards and changes included in the design. Also can help system designers to overcome its system usability problems.
Bioinformatic analysis of the effect of SNPs in the pig TERT gene on the structural and functional characteristics of the enzyme to develop new genetic markers of productivity traits
Authors: Peka Mykyta , Balatsky Viktor , Saienko Artem , Tsereniuk Oleksandr
Published: January 2023

Background
Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is responsible for synthesizing telomeric repeats that protect chromosomes from destruction and prevent their fusion, which is critically important for maintaining the stability of the genome. In some cases, mutations in the TERT gene can lead to a deviation in gene expression, impaired enzyme activity, and, as a result, an abnormal shortening of the telomere length. Based on the TERT gene polymorphism, genetic markers of productivity traits of livestock species related to their health, productive life expectancy, resistance to stress and environmental factors can be developed for use in marker-associated selection (MAS). In this study, we propose a bioinformatics-based approach to evaluate the effect of missense SNPs in the pig TERT gene on the function and structure of the enzyme with the prospect of developing genetic markers.
Results
A comparative analysis of the coding and amino acid sequences of the pig TERT was performed with corresponding sequences of other species. The high level of identity found between these sequences of human and pig TERT (77.7% and 71.8%, respectively) made it possible to establish the distribution of polymorphisms in the pig TERT gene in terms of structural-functional domains of the enzyme. A three-dimensional model of the pig TERT structure was obtained by homological modeling based on the human TERT structure. The potential impact of each of the 23 missense SNPs in the pig TERT gene on telomerase function and stability was assessed using predictive bioinformatics tools based on data on the amino acid sequence and structure of pig TERT.
Conclusions
According to bioinformatics analysis of 23 missense SNPs of the pig TERT gene, a predictive effect of SNPs rs789641834 (TEN domain), rs706045634 (TEN domain), rs325294961 (TRBD domain) and rs705602819 (RTD domain) on the structural and functional parameters of the enzyme were established. These SNPs can be considered potential genetic markers of productivity traits associated with pig health, stress tolerance and farming duration. The possibility of their application in MAS should be evaluated in association studies.
Analysis of the efficacy of high hernia sac ligation in adolescent indirect hernia
Authors: Fan Guoyong , Yao Gan
Published: January 2023

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of high hernia sac ligation in adolescent indirect hernia.
Methods
The data of adolescent patients underwent high hernia sac ligation in the The First People's Hospital of Foshan,China from January 2012 to December 2019 were analyzed retrospectively, mainly collecting their age, gender, weight, surgical method, the hernia ring diameter, operation time, postoperative recurrence rate and postoperative complications.
Results
A total of 71 patients were enrolled, including 62 males (87.32%) and 9 females (12.68%),all patients aged 13–18 years old (mean14.90 ± 1.57years), weighing 28-92kg (mean 53.08 ± 10.53kg), 70patients underwent laparoscopic surgery except 2 with irreducible hernias converted to laparotomy,1 patients underwent open hernia sac high ligation.the hernia ring diameter: 0.5-3cm (mean 1.39 ± 0.49cm), and the diameter of the hernia ring ≤ 2cm in 69 cases (97.18%),The operative length: 12-105min (average 25.45 ± 13.19min), There were 38(53.5%) right-sided hernias, 32 (45.1%) leftsided hernias, 1 (1.4%) performed simultaneous bilaterally.There were 68 (95.8%)reducible hernia,2(2.8%)irreducible hernias ,1(1.4%)incarcerated hernia,Hospital stay :1–5 days (mean 2.37 ± 1.04 days), Follow-up 24-119months (mean 73.56 ± 28.56months), no recurrence, one case of incision infection occured, A second operation was performed 6 months after the operation,4(5.6%)patients had complaints of intermittent pain around the ligation incision site mostly during exerciseIn .
Conclusion
High hernia sac ligation is feasible for treat indirect hernia with a diameter of the hernia ring ≤ 2cm.
Magnesium chelatase subunit D is not only required for chlorophyll biosynthesis and photosynthesis, but also affecting starch accumulation in Manihot esculenta Crantz
Authors: Yang Xingai , cai Jie , Xue Jingjing , Luo Xiuqin , Zhu Wenli , Xiao Xinhui , Xue Maofu , An Feifei , Li Kaimian , Chen Songbi
Published: January 2023

Background: Magnesium chelatase plays an important role in photosynthesis, but only a few subunits have been functionally characterized in cassava.
Results: Herein, MeChlD was successfully cloned and characterized. MeChlD encodes a magnesium chelatase subunit D, which has ATPase and vWA conservative domains. MeChlD was highly expressed in the leaves. Subcellular localization suggested that MeChlD:GFP was a chloroplast-localized protein. Furthermore, the yeast two-hybrid system and BiFC analysis indicated that MeChlD interacts with MeChlM and MePrxQ, respectively. VIGS-induce silencing of MeChlD resulted in significantly decreased chlorophyll content and reduction the expression of photosynthesis-related nuclear genes. Furthermore, the storage root numbers, fresh weight and the total starch content in cassava storage roots of VIGS-MeChlD plants was significantly reduced.
Conclusion: Taken together, MeChlD located at the chloroplast is not only required for chlorophyll biosynthesis and photosynthesis, but also affecting the starch accumulation in cassava. This study expands our understanding of the biological functions of ChlD proteins.
Utilizing genetic code expansion to modify N-TIMP2 specificity towards MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-14
Authors: Hayun Hezi , Coban Matt , Bhagat Ashok Kumar , Ozer Eden , Alfonta Lital , Caulfield Thomas R. , Radisky Evette S. , Papo Niv
Published: January 2023

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) regulate the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in biological processes. MMP activity is controlled by natural tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) that non-selectively inhibit the function of multiple MMPs via interaction with the MMPs' Zn2+-containing catalytic pocket. Recent studies suggest that TIMPs engineered to confer MMP specificity could be exploited for therapeutic purposes, but obtaining specific TIMP-2 inhibitors has proved to be challenging. Here, in an effort to improve MMP specificity, we incorporated the metal-binding non-canonical amino acids (NCAAs), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) and (8-hydroxyquinolin-3-yl)alanine (HqAla), into the MMP-inhibitory N-terminal domain of TIMP2 (N-TIMP2) at selected positions that interact with the catalytic Zn2+ ion (S2, S69, A70, L100) or with a structural Ca2+ ion (Y36). Evaluation of the inhibitory potency of the NCAA-containing variants towards MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-14 in vitro revealed that most showed a significant loss of inhibitory activity towards MMP-14, but not towards MMP-2 and MMP-9, resulting in increased specificity towards the latter proteases. Substitutions at S69 conferred the best improvement in selectivity for both L-DOPA and HqAla variants. Molecular modeling revealed how MMP-2 and MMP-9 are better able to accommodate the bulky NCAA substituents at the intermolecular interface with N-TIMP2. The models also showed that, rather than coordinating to Zn2+, the NCAA side chains formed stabilizing polar interactions at the intermolecular interface with MMP-2 and MMP-9. The findings illustrate how incorporation of NCAAs can be used to probe and exploit differential tolerance for substitution within closely related protein-protein complexes to achieve improved specificity.
Adenosine metabolism inhibits airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma model induced by Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: liu tingting , Wang Yue-li , Zhang Zhi , Jia Li-xin , Zhang Jing , Chen Zhi-hua , Shen Hua-hao , Piao Chun-mei , Du Jie
Published: January 2023

Background: Given that severe inflammatory reaction is an important manifestation of asthma, it would be helpful to understand the pathological mechanism of asthma to determine the endogenous anti-inflammatory events of asthma. Recent studies have found that energy metabolites in the body are related to some inflammatory diseases, but little is known about their role in asthma.
Method: In this study, an asthma model was established by intratracheal instillation of Aspergillus fumigatus extract in Ecto-5'-Nucleotidase (CD73) gene–knockout and wild-type mice. Multiple analyses from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were used to determine the levels of cytokines and chemokines. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect subcutaneous fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration. Finally, adenosine 5’-(α, β-methylene) diphosphate (APCP), a CD73 inhibitor, was pumped subcutaneously before Aspergillus attack to observe the infiltration of inflammatory cells and subcutaneous fibrosis to clarify its therapeutic effect.
Result: PAS staining showed that CD73 knockout inhibited pulmonary epithelial cell proliferation and bronchial fibrosis induced by Aspergillus extract. The genetic destruction of CD73 significantly reduced the production of Th2 cytokines, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-13, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5), eosinophil chemokine, neutrophil IL-17, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). In addition, exogenous adenosine supplementation increased airway inflammation. Finally, the CD73 inhibitor APCP was administered to reduce inflammation and subcutaneous fibrosis.
Conclusion: Elevated adenosine metabolism plays an inflammatory role in asthma, and CD73 could be a potential therapeutic target for asthma.
Prediction of Oleic Acid Content in Brassica napus L. Seeds Based on Hyperspectral Parameters at Seedling Stage: A New Method for Rapidly Screening Germplasm with Different Oleic Acid Content at Early Growth Stage of Rapeseed
Authors: Chang Tao , Wang XiaoDan , Liao Li , Peng Guangjue , Chen Hu , Guan Chunyun , Guan Mei
Published: January 2023

Background:
Remote sensing prediction techniques are new methods to assist crop production and screen breeding materials, mainly to predict crop conditions. In rapeseed production and breeding, remote sensing can predict growth status and harvest quality through spectral reflection at seedling stage.
Results: We bulit a spectral early-prediction system (SEP) containing multiple feedback formulas and predicted the oleic acid content of rapeseeds at harvest stage through reverse validation. We established a recognition model for early prediction of oleic acid in range of view of 56-85% with a resolution of 1%. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between prediction result and ideal model below 1 was found for verification measurements.
Conclusion:
Besides other practical features such as nondestructive collection of material information, simple operation, and the ability to accurate prediction of oleic acid per plant, the SEP system is a promising tool for rapid screening of different oleic acid breeding materials, offering an easy setup to process in breeding work or field production.
Effect of gastrointestinal symptoms and skipping breakfast on anxiety and depression in quarantined Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross sectional survey
Authors: Qiao Tingting , Gao Dingwei , Lu Gaixia , Lv# Zhongwei , Yi Wanwan
Published: January 2023

Background: Strict quarantine is an effective measure to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, but it probably increases the risk of anxiety and depression. We aimed to evaluate the anxiety and depression among quarantined college students at school during the COVID-19 pandemic and investigate whether gastrointestinal discomfort related-factors and skipping breakfast lead to increased risk of anxiety and depression.
Methods: 384 quarantined college students in Shanghai China were recruited in this cross-sectional study from April 5th to May 29th, 2022. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to assess anxiety and depression, respectively.Results: The prevalence of anxiety and depression were 56.8% and 62.8%, respectively. Longer quarantine duration, higher education level, skipping breakfast, stomachache or abdominal pain, and nausea or dyspepsia were the risk factors for anxiety. Moreover, longer quarantine duration, being woman, skipping breakfast, stomachache or abdominal pain, and nausea or dyspepsia increased the risk of depression. Notably, regularly physical exercising and taking positive attitude towards COVID-19 can reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.
Conclusions: More attention should be paid to anxiety and depression of quarantined college students and universities should provide timely psychological monitoring and intervention services to mitigate the impact of negative emotions on students. And effectively relieving gastrointestinal symptoms, insisting on eat breakfast, regularly exercising, and taking a positive attitude towards to COVID-19 might contribute to preventing the anxiety and depression for those college students experiencing a long-term quarantine.
Time course study of optical coherence tomography angiography in patients with methanol-induced optic neuropathy
Authors: Jafarizadeh Ali , Homaie Mina , Abdollahi Mirsaeed , Niyousha Mohamad Reza
Published: January 2023

Introduction:
In countries where alcoholic beverages are legally prohibited, methanol toxicity usually occurs due to ingesting homemade alcoholic drinks. The initial ophthalmologic symptoms of methanol toxicity typically appear 6–48 hours after ingestion, and the severity of symptoms varies widely from mild and painless decreased vision to no-light perception vision.
Methods
This prospective study examines 20 patients with acute methanol poisoning within 10 days of use. Patients underwent ocular examinations, BCVA (Best Corrected Visual Acuity) recording, and OCTA (Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography) of the macula and optic disc. BCVA measurement and imaging were repeated one month and three months after intoxication.
Results
There was a statistically significant reduction in superficial parafoveal vascular density (P-value = 0.026), inner retinal thickness (P-value = 0.022), RNFL (Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer) thickness (P-value = 0.031), and an increase in cup to disc ratio (P-value < 0.001), and central visual acuity (P-value = 0.002) in this time course. However, there was no statistically significant difference in FAZ (Foveal Avascular Zone) area (P-value = 0.309), FAZ perimeter (P-value = 0.504), FD-300 (Foveal density, vascular density within a 300µm wide region of the FAZ) (P-value = 0.541), superficial vascular density (P-value = 0.187), deep foveal vascular density (P-value = 0.889), deep parafoveal vascular density (P-value = 0.830), choroidal flow area (P-value = 0.464), total retinal thickness (P-value = 0.597), outer retinal thickness (P-value = 0.067), optic disc whole image vascular density (P-value = 0.146), vascular density inside the disc (P-value = 0.864), or peripapillary vascular density (P-value = 0.680) at different times.
Conclusion
Over time, methanol poisoning can cause changes in retinal layers thickness, vasculature, and optic nerve head. The most important changes include cupping of the optic nerve head, reduction in RNFL thickness, and inner retinal thickness.
Risk of developing chronic kidney disease in young-onset Type 2 diabetes in Korea: A nationwide population- based study
Authors: Lee Joonyub , Lee Seung-Hwan , Yoon Kun-Ho , Cho Jae Hyoung , Han Kyungdo , Yang Yeoree
Published: January 2023

We investigated the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with young-onset Type 2 diabetes (YOD, diagnosed age <40 years). We enrolled 84,384 patients aged 20–64 who started anti-diabetic medication between 2010 and 2011 from the Korea National Health Insurance Sharing Service; patients with Type 1 diabetes or a history of CKD were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to adjust for YOD-distinct variables and compare the incidence of CKD between YOD and late-onset diabetes (LOD, diagnosed age≥40 years). During the median observation period of 5.16 years (interquartile range: 4.58–5.77 years), 1,480 out of 77,039 LOD patients and 34 out of 7,345 YOD patients developed CKD. Patients with YOD had distinct baseline characteristics compared with the patients with LOD. The odds ratio of developing CKD in patients with YOD over LOD was 1.70 (95% CI: 1.15–2.51) after adjusting clinically distinct variables. The increased CKD odds in YOD compared with LOD was greater in the non-smoking group (OR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.26–3.26) than in the smoking group (OR: 1.49, 95% CI: 0.74–2.98, p=0.0393 for interaction). Among YOD patients, hypertension (34.76% vs. 64.71%, p=0.0003), dyslipidemia (46.87% vs. 73.53%, p=0.0019), and sulfonylurea use (35.54% vs. 52.94%, p=0.0345) were associated with CKD development.
YOD patients have a greater risk of developing CKD than LOD patients after adjusting clinically distinct variables.
Proficiency Testing Performance in Chemistry Department; a 10-year study of trends in benzoic acid in food
Authors: LI HUI LING
Published: January 2023

Proficiency testing (PT) is considered an indicator to improve competency for laboratory quality management systems. The laboratories participating in PT maintain personnel competency, monitor the lab performance, and ensure the validity of the results. The chemistry department was started with 20 parameters with participation by its branch laboratories in 1995 and declared it as an interlaboratory comparison, then upgraded to PT after applying the procedure following ISO/IEC 17043. Over ten years of results started from 2012 to 2021, the chemistry department which covers headquarters and 10 branches achieved good performance. Only the year 2012 faced an outlier result from the Malacca branch and two questionable results from Bintulu and Sibu branches in 2016. Investigation of the outlier and questionable results were based on 4M (Manpower, Method, Machine, and Material). The relationship between the 4M is always mutually beneficial, lacking one will not guarantee high quality. Exploring these 4M provides the lab with a structured framework for root cause analysis by helping the lab to understand how each one may have contributed to a particular issue. The trends of the PT performance also be analysed to increase the quality system, as an example for the Sarawak branch Z-score data tends to be over 0 which all the points falling on the upper side, which shows that systematic error occurred; to improve the accuracy of the lab, the investigation needed. Thus, PT acted as a valuable tool for the laboratory to improve and to carry out the necessary investigations and corrective actions if any outlier results were obtained in the analysis.
Identification of stemness-related LncRNA signature for predicting the prognosis and therapy response in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ning Bobin , Zhu Ruibao , Xue Yonggan , Cao Yajun , Jia Huihui , Jia Boqing
Published: January 2023

Background: Cancer stem cells (CSC) carry out a vital responsibility throughout the entire progress of colorectal cancer (CRC), and fulfil an essential biological function. However, lncRNAs participate in regulating CRC stem cells (CCSCs) and correlate strongly with the patients' prognosis. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the CCRC-related lncRNAs in CRC.
Methods: We identified CCRCs-related lncRNAs through the Cell marker and TCGA databases. And the CCSC-related lncRNAs model was constructed by the differential, cox survival , and lasso regression analysis. Combining the GEO dataset, we determined the prognostic value by Kaplan-Meier analysis, univariate and multivariate cox survival analysis. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA), clinical characterization, nomogram, gene mutation, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), immune microenvironment (TME), chemotherapy, intergroup differential gene, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis were conducted to analyze the risk model. Furthermore, the core genes in the sub-module were comprehensively characterized.
Results: In this research, abnormally expressed, prognostic and CSC-related lncRNAs were firstly identified. Through the lasso regression model, we obtained a robust risk signature consisting of 4 CCSC-related lncRNAs (ZEB1-AS1，LINC00174，FENDRR and ALMS1-IT1). Then, the risk model was confirmed applicable in both TCGA and GEO cohorts. Further verification, the signature can be verified as a independent prognostic factor for CRC. Based on the CCSC-related lncRNA model, the high- and low-risk groups exhibited different stemness statuses, including gene expression, mutation status, signaling pathways, TME and chemotherapy response. The HOX family and HOX4 were centrally located in the PPI interaction and had an influential contribution in CRC.
Conclusions: We established a 4 CCSC-related lncRNA signature with a promising prognosis. And the signature can appropriately estimate the gene mutation, TME, and chemotherapy outcomes for CRC patients. Furthermore, the CCSC-related lncRNAs and HOX4 can serve as noble biomarkers and promote the management of therapy clinically.
Prevalence and Predictors of Post-stroke Cognitive Impairment among Stroke Survivors in Uganda
Authors: Kaddumukasa Martin. N , Kaddumukasa Mark , Katabira Elly , Sewankambo Nelson , Namujju Lillian. D , Goldstein Larry. B
Published: January 2023

Background

Little is known about the characteristics and determinants of post-stroke cognitive impairments in low- and middle-income countries. The objective of this study was to determine the frequencies, patterns, and risk factors for cognitive impairment in a cross-sectional study of consecutive stroke patients cared for at Uganda’s Mulago Hospital, located in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

From August 2019 to July 2020, patients were enrolled a minimum of 3-months post-stroke hospital admission. We collected data on their demographics, vascular risk factors and clinical factors using a questionnaire, clinical examination findings, and test results. Independent predictor variables associated with cognitive impairment were ascertained. Stroke impairments, disability, and handicap were assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Barthel Index (BI), and modified Rankin scale (mRS), respectively. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to assess participants’ cognitive function. Stepwise multiple logistic regression was used to identify variables independently associated with cognitive impairment.

Results

The overall mean MoCA score was 11.7-points (range 0.0–28.0-points) for 128 patients with available data of whom 66.4% were categorized as cognitively impaired (MoCA < 19-points). Increasing age (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00-1.07; p = 0.026), low level of education (OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.25–8.33; p = 0.016), functional handicap (mRS 3–5; OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.28–2.63; p < 0.001) and high LDL cholesterol (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.14–6.56; p = 0.024) were independently associated with cognitive impairment.

Discussion

Further longitudinal, prospective studies are required to confirm these findings and identify strategies for reducing the risk of post-stroke cognitive impairment in this population.
Use of Mobile Technology to Identify Behavioral Mechanisms Linked to Mental Health Outcomes in Kenya: Protocol for Development and Validation of a Predictive Model
Authors: Njoroge Willie , Maina Rachel , Elena Frank , Atwoli Lukoye , Wu Zhenke , Ngugi Anthony , Sen Srijan , Wang Jian , Wong Stephen , Baker Jessica , Haus Eileen , Khakali Linda , Aballa Andrew , Orwa James , Nyongesa Moses , Merali Zul , Akbar Karim , Abubakar Amina
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study proposes to identify and validate weighted sensor stream signatures that predict near-term risk of a major depressive episode and future mood among healthcare workers in Kenya.
Approach: The study will deploy a mobile app platform and use novel data science analytic approaches (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) to identifying predictors of mental health disorders among 500 randomly sampled healthcare workers from five healthcare facilities in Nairobi, Kenya.
Expectation: This study will lay the basis for creating agile and scalable systems for rapid diagnostics that could inform precise interventions for mitigating depression and ensure a healthy, resilient healthcare workforce to develop sustainable economic growth in Kenya, East Africa, and ultimately neighboring countries in sub-Saharan Africa. This protocol paper provides an opportunity to share the planned study implementation methods and approaches.
Conclusion: A mobile technology platform that is scalable and can be used to understand and improve mental health outcomes is of critical importance.
The strategies of faculty development based on their role and learning styles at Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences
Authors: Bazrafkan Leila , Ghasemi Sima , Shojaei Arash , Rakhshani Tayebeh , shokrpour nasrin
Published: January 2023

Background
This study aimed to identify and explain the strategies of faculty development based on their role and learning styles at Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative content analysis study in 2021 using purposive, snowball sampling, with a maximum variation of age and experience levels of faculty members. Twenty four participants were enrolled in this study (eighteen faculty members and six medical sciences students); data collection consisted of two phases of semi-structured interviews and a brainstorming group technique. Data were categorized into two themes and six related subthemes, based on their similarities and differences after frequent summarization.
Results
The data analysis yielded two themes and eight categories. The first theme was to explain competencies based on role and task with two sub-themes: Tasks and capabilities and Development and excellence of personal qualities. The second theme was the best strategies for empowering the teacher with four sub-themes, including problem-based learning, integration of methods, evaluation-based education, and scholarship in education (PIES), which explains the strategies that can support the development of teachers in medical sciences.
Conclusion
From the perspective of faculty members, the importance of some strategies in education and empowering the teachers’ professional competence dimensions should be emphasized. PIES could explain the practical strategies that can support the development of teachers in medical sciences.
Effects of probiotic supplementation on gastrointestinal motility, inflammation, motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Park Jong Mi , Lee Sang Chul , Ham Chorom , Kim Yong Wook
Published: January 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. It is believed that “gut dysbiosis” can cause PD; therefore, whether probiotics can be used as adjuvants in the treatment of PD is being actively investigated. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotic therapy in PD patients. PUBMED/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were searched till January 9, 2023. The meta-analysis used a random effects model and the effect size was calculated as mean difference or standardized mean difference. Ten studies with 760 participants were included in the final analysis. The meta-analysis revealed a significant improvement in gastrointestinal motility (standardized mean difference [95% confidence interval]) (0.78 [0.57-0.98]) and antioxidant capacity (1.73 [0.26 to 3.21]). Serum inflammatory markers (-8.64 [-16.05 to -1.23]), diabetes risk (-3.41 [-4.65 to -2.17]), Unified PD Rating Scale Part III (-4.12 [-7.81 to -0.43]), non-motor symptom (-5.55 [-8.30 to -2.80]), quality of life (-1.13 [-1.86 to -0.40]), anxiety scale (-2.21 [-3.41 to -1.00]) and depression scale (-1.53 [-1.99 to -1.07]) demonstrated a significant decrease. The Bristol stool scale, constipation and risk of dyslipidemia were not significantly improved. In a subgroup analysis, capsules further improved gastrointestinal motility than fermented milk. This review found that probiotic supplements may be suitable for increasing gastrointestinal motility, reducing inflammation, and improving motor and non-motor symptoms of PD. Further research is warranted to determine the mechanism of action of probiotics and the optimal treatment protocol.
Single-Cell Sequencing Analysis Fibrosis Provides Insights into the Pathobiological Cell Types and Cytokines of Radiation-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Sun Zhiyong , Lou Yutao , Hu Xiaoping , Song Feifeng , Zheng Xiaowei , Hu Ying , Ding Haiying , Zhang Yiwen , Huang Ping
Published: January 2023

Background
Radiotherapy is an essential treatment for chest cancer. Radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis (RIPF) is an almost irreversible interstitial lung disease; however, its pathogenesis remains unclear.
Methods
We analyzed specific changes in cell populations and potential markers by using single-cell sequencing datasets from the Sequence Read Archive database, PERFORMED from control (0 Gy) and thoracic irradiated (20 Gy) mouse lungs at day 150 post-radiation. We performed IHC and ELISA on lung tissue and cells to validate the potential marker cytokines identified by the analysis on rat thoracic irradiated molds (30 Gy).
Results
Single-cell sequencing analysis showed changes in abundance across cell types and at the single-cell level, with B and T cells showing the most significant changes in abundance. And four cytokines, CCL5, ICAM1, PF4 and TNF, were significantly upregulated in lung tissues of RIPF rats and in cell supernatants after ionizing radiation.
Conclusion
Cytokines CCL5, ICAM1, PF4 and TNF may play essential roles in radiation pulmonary fibrosis. They are potential targets for the treatment of radiation pulmonary fibrosis.
Network-based Control of Epidemic via Flattening the Infection Curve: High-Clustered vs. Low-Clustered Social Networks
Authors: Doostmohammadian Mohammadreza , Rabiee Hamid R.
Published: January 2023

Recent studies in network science and control have shown a meaningful relationship between the epidemic processes (e.g., COVID-19 spread) and some network properties. This paper studies how such network properties, namely clustering coefficient and centrality measures (or node influence metrics), affect the spread of viruses and the growth of epidemics over scale-free networks. The results can be used to target individuals (the nodes in the network) to flatten the infection curve. This so-called flattening of the infection curve is to reduce the health service costs and burden to the authorities/governments. Our Monte-Carlo simulation results show that clustered networks are, in general, easier to flatten the infection curve, i.e., with the same connectivity and the same number of isolated individuals they result in more flattened curves. Moreover, distance-based centrality measures, which target the nodes based on their average network distance to other nodes (and not the node degrees), are better choices for targeting individuals for isolation/vaccination.
A randomized, double-blind, control trial study to compare clinical outcomes of users and nonusers of a walking support machine after total knee replacement surgery
Authors: Rattanasomboonchai Siripen , Watcharamaisakul sukasem , Sindhupakorn Bura
Published: January 2023

Background
Rehabilitation is one of the keys to success following total knee replacement (TKR). Many methods can be used to reduce knee forces during weight-bearing exercises.
Objectives
The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a walking support machine (Co-walk) in improving clinical outcomes in TKR patients.
Methods
62 TKR patients were equally and randomly divided into two groups: the control group (Non Co-walk) and the experimental group (Co-walk). Both groups followed a standard 45-minute rehabilitation program. The Co-walk received an additional 15-minute Co-walk session once a week for 6 weeks. Outcomes were measured at admission and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months in TKR patients.
Results
Participants in the Co-walk group demonstrated significantly different scores on the TUG test (18.10 ± 6.45) and the WOMAC pain scale (13.29 ± 5.49) at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months (p < 0.001). WOMAC and ROM were statistically significant in the Co-walk group (36.10 ± 13.78) at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months (p < 0.001). WOMAC stiffness scores were statistically significant in the Co-walk group (6.03 ± 3.62) at 2 weeks (p < 0.001). Postural control for patients in the Co-walk group showed significant improvement in position (Left 16[8.5(6.5–14.0)]and Right 11[10.0(3.0–24.0)]) at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. The experimental group and control group showed no significant difference in LOS (p = 0.379).
Conclusion
Co-walk effectively improves outcomes during the early rehabilitation period. It may be better than physical therapy rehabilitation programs alone.
Smartphone-assisted training with education for patients with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis (SmArt-E): Study protocol for a multicentre pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weber Franziska , Müller Carsten , Bahns Carolin , Kopkow Christian , Färber Francesca , Gellert Paul , Otte Ina , Vollmar Horst Christian , Brannath Werner , Diederich Freya , Kloep Stephan , Rothgang Heinz , Dieter Valerie , Krauß Inga , Kloek Corelien , Veenhof Cindy , Collisi Sandra , Repschläger Ute , Böbinger Hannes , Grüneberg Christian , Thiel Christian , Peschke Dirk
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Hip and knee osteoarthritis are associated with functional limitations, pain and restrictions in quality of life and the ability to work. Furthermore, with growing prevalence, osteoarthritis is increasingly causing (in)direct costs. Guidelines recommend exercise therapy and education as primary treatment strategies. Available options for treatment based on physical activity promotion and lifestyle change are often insufficiently provided and used. In addition, the quality of current exercise programmes often does not meet the changing care needs of older people with comorbidities and exercise adherence is a challenge beyond personal physiotherapy. The main objective of this study is to investigate the short- and long-term (cost-)effectiveness of the SmArt-E programme in people with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis in terms of pain and physical functioning compared to usual care.
Methods: This study is designed as a multicentre randomised controlled trial with a target sample size of 330 patients. The intervention is based on the e-Exercise intervention from the Netherlands, consists of a training and education programme and is conducted as a blended care intervention over twelve months. We use an app to support independent training and the development of self-management skills. The primary and secondary hypotheses are that participants in the SmArt-E intervention will have less pain (numerical rating scale) and better physical functioning (Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) compared to participants in the usual care group after twelve and three months. Other secondary outcomes are based on domains of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI). The study will be accompanied by a process evaluation.
Discussion: After a positive evaluation, SmArt-E can be offered in usual care, flexibly addressing different care situations. The desired sustainability and the support of the participants' behavioural change are initiated via the app through audio-visual contact with their physiotherapists. Furthermore, the app supports the repetition and consolidation of learned training and educational content. For people with osteoarthritis, the new form of care with proven effectiveness can lead to a reduction in underuse and misuse of care as well as contribute to a reduction in (in)direct costs.
Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00028477. Registered on August 10, 2022.
A solution to a linear boundary value problem for an impulsive integro-differential equation
Authors: Mynbayeva Sandugash , Assanova Anar , Uteshova Rosa
Published: January 2023

This study deals with a boundary-value problem for a linear Fred-holm integro-differential equation subject to impulse effects at fixed time points. Solvability criteria are provided in terms of input data, without the use of a fundamental matrix and a resolvent. We also propose an algorithm to solve the problem under consideration, establish its convergence conditions, and provide a numerical version of the algorithm.
MSC Classification: 34A37; 34B37; 45J05; 45J99; 34K28
Sales-Dominance Relations And Disclosure Of Product Information
Authors: Woo Hee Yeul
Published: January 2023

In a framework allowing for both vertical and horizontal product differentiation, the seller persuades the consumer of unknown taste by sending verifiable product information. The standard unraveling argument does not extend well under horizontal differentiation mainly because it is indefinite how to rank seller types. By defining price-dependent sales-dominance relations over seller types, we provide a generalized unraveling argument that can be applied no matter how products are differentiated. We show that if a sales-dominant seller type exists at a price over some seller types, an outcome at which all and only these seller types pool at this price doss not emerge regardless of the prior. We argue that sales-dominance relation is complete at every price if and only if full disclosure is the unique outcome regardless of the prior. We find the condition under which a worst-case type is well-defined regardless of the prior for every observable deviation of the seller. Finally, we explore product information the consumer could receive when sales-dominance relations are incomplete.
Brazilian food biodiversity: a richness invisible on our plates
Authors: Gomes Sávio , Chaves Viviany , de Carvalho Aline , Silva Elenilma da , Neto Elias de Menezes , Moura Gabriela , Chaves Leonardo , Alves Rômulo , de Albuquerque Ulysses , Pereira Fillipe , Jacob Michelle
Published: January 2023

Food biodiversity is essential for improving nutrition and reducing hunger in populations worldwide. However, the relationship between food availability and food consumption in middle and low-income countries is still controversial. We used Brazil, one of the world's megabiodiverse countries, as a case study to investigate the magnitude of biodiversity consumption in the diet of the entire population of the country. Here we show that food biodiversity was consumed by 1.3% of the population, varying according to socioeconomic aspects, such as race, sex and income. The consumption of unconventional food plants is an indicator of the risk for socioeconomic vulnerability among historically oppressed groups.
Proficiency of some synthetic alginate derivatives for sequestration of Iodine-131 from radioactive liquid waste
Authors: Hassan Reham S. , Eldahab H. M.M. Abo , Shehata F. A. , El-Reefy S. A.
Published: January 2023

The current effort in environmental remediation is aimed at removing iodine-131 radionuclide from radioactive liquid waste produced by an Egyptian nuclear power plant using some synthesised alginate derivatives. Two different copolymers, namely sodium alginate poly (acrylic acid) (P1) and sodium alginate poly (acrylic acid-methacrylic acid) (P2), are prepared using gamma radiation. The ability of these polymers to remove 131I radionuclide as sorbents has been investigated. The synthesised polymers exhibit excellent adsorption performance for 131I ions, and the adsorption equilibrium requires only 30 min, which reveals that the sorption process is kinetically faster than most of the other materials reported previously. The removal percents for 131I radionuclide at a pH of 3.0 at room temperature on P1 and P2 are 77.7% and 84.2%, respectively. The sorption capacities of the two polymers demonstrate that P2 > P1, with capacities of 67.9 and 58.5 mg/g, respectively. Four linear kinetic models are investigated: pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order, Elovich, and Weber–Morris models. Regarding their calculated parameters, these models indicate that the adsorption process of I-ions on both P1 and P2 is controlled by chemisorption. Four equilibrium isotherm models (Redlich-Peterson, Langmuir, Freundlich, and Harkin-Jura) are investigated, revealing that the adsorption process is a monolayer and multilayer process on a heterogeneous surface.
Effect of Postoperative Tranexamic Acid on Recurrence Rate and Complications in Chronic Subdural Hematomas Patients: Preliminary Results of a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Torres Marcus Vinícius Carneiro , Ribeiro Bernardo Duarte Chamon , Melo Marina Mendes , de Freitas Pedro Victor Vidal , Pahl Felix Hendrik , de Oliveira Matheus Fernandes , Rotta Jose Marcus
Published: January 2023

Introduction. Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a frequent neurosurgical disease, which mainly affects elderly patients. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been hypothesized as an oral agent to avoid CSDH progression and/or recurrence. We performed an evaluation to determine whether the postoperative use of TXA reduces recurrence rate.
Method. A prospective, randomized and controlled trial. Patients with unilateral or bilateral chronic subdural hematoma undergoing surgical treatment by burr-hole were randomized as to whether or not to use TXA in the postoperative period. We evaluated image and clinical recurrence of CSDH at follow up of 6 months and potential clinical and/or surgical complications impact of TXA.
Results. Twenty-six patients were then randomized to the control group (52%) and twenty-four patients to the TXA group (48%). Follow-up ranged from 3 months to 16 months. There were no significant difference between baseline data in groups regarding to age, gender, use of antiplatelet or anticoagulants, smoking, alcoholism, systemic arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hematoma laterality, hematoma thickness and drain use. Clinical and radiological recurrence occurred in 3 patients (6%), being 2 cases in TXA group (8.3%) and 1 in control group (3.8%). Postoperative complications occurred in 2 patients during follow-up (4%), being both cases in TXA group (8.3%), and none in the control group.
Discussion and Conclusion. Although TXA group had a higher recurrence rate (8.3%), there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Moreover, TXA group had 2 complications while control group had no complications. Although limited by experimental nature of study and small sample, our current data suggest that TXA should not be used as a potential agent to avoid recurrences of CSDH and might increase complication odds.