bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of APOE and Smoking History on Cognitive Function in Older, Long-Term Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Ahles Tim , Orlow Irene , Schofield Elizabeth , Li Yuelin , Ryan Elizabeth , Root James C. , Patel Sunita K. , McNeal Katrazyna , Gaynor Alexandra , Tan Heidi , Katheria Vani , Vazquez Jessica , Corrales-Guerrero Sergio , Sadeghi Keimya , Traina Tiffany , Hurria Arti
Published: March 2022

Purpose
To determine whether older breast cancer survivors score lower on neuropsychological tests compared to matched non-cancer controls and to test the hypotheses that survivors who were APOE ε4 carriers would have the lowest cognitive performance, but that smoking history would decrease the negative effect of ε4 on cognition.
Methods
Female breast cancer survivors who had been diagnosed and treated at age 60 or older and were 5 – 15 year survivors (N=328) and age and education matched non-cancer controls (N=160) were assessed at enrollment and at 8, 16 and 24 month follow ups with standard neuropsychological and psychological assessments. Blood for APOE genotyping was collected and smoking history was assessed at enrollment. Participants were purposely recruited so that approximately 50% had a history of treatment with chemotherapy or no chemotherapy and approximately 50% had a smoking history.
Results
After adjusting for age, cognitive reserve, depression and fatigue, breast cancer survivors scored significantly lower on all domains of cognitive function. A significant two-way interaction demonstrated that the negative effect of ε4 on cognitive performance was stronger among survivors. A significant three-way interaction supported the hypothesis that smoking history had a protective effect on cognitive function in ε4 carriers that was more pronounced in the controls than the survivors.
Conclusions
The results support the long-term cognitive impact of breast cancer diagnosis and treatments on older, disease-free survivors, particularly for ε4 carriers. The results also emphasize the importance of assessing smoking history when examining APOE and cognition and are an example of the complex interactions of age, genetics, health behaviors and disease history in determining cognitive function.
Effects of Tilt and Decentration of Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL V4c) on Visual Quality: An Observational Study
Authors: Niu Lingling , Zhang Zhe , Miao Huamao , Zhao Jing , Li Meiyan , He Ji C , Yao Peijun , Zhou Xingtao
Published: March 2022

Objectives
To investigate the tilt and decentration effects of the Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL V4c) on visual quality after implantation.
Methods
A total of 135 eyes from 69 patients who underwent ICL V4c implantation were included in this study. Evaluation of spherical equivalent, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and aberrations were performed 6-months postoperatively. The anterior segment parameters were collected using CASIA2 anterior segment-optical coherence tomography, and tilt and decentration of the ICL V4c were analyzed using MATLAB software. All patients received questionnaires to investigate the visual quality postoperatively.
Results
The safety and effectiveness were 1.18 ± 0.17 and 1.11 ± 0.18, respectively. No significant changes were observed regarding higher-order and spherical aberrations after the operation; however, coma and trefoil significantly increased compared to preoperative values. The average decentration was 0.21 ± 0.12 mm. The average tilt was 2.54 ± 1.00°. Horizontal, vertical, and total values of tilt and decentration were not significantly associated with postoperative CDVA, UDVA, and aberrations. The most common visual symptom was halo, and 97.04% of patients had a satisfaction score ≥ 8. The total or vertical tilt was significantly positively correlated with the frequency, severity, and bothersome scores from the questionnaires.
Conclusions
ICL V4c implantation can obtain high visual quality and patient satisfaction. Although the degree of tilt and decentration after ICL V4c implantation was small, a positive effect on subjective visual quality was observed.
Phylogenetic analysis of torquetenovirus in Romania: possible evidence of distinct geographical distribution
Authors: Cimponeriu Gheorghe Danut , Spandole-Dinu Sonia , Stoica Ileana , Apircioaie Oana , Gogianu Larisa , Berca Lavinia Mariana , Nica Silvia , Toma Mihai , Nica Remus
Published: March 2022

Torquetenovirus (TTV) is highly prevalent and little is known of its circulation in humans. We aimed to assess the geographical distribution and phylogeny of TTV from Romanians. A fragment of TTV UTR B was sequenced in samples from volunteers from all seven development regions of Romania. Additional sequences from Romanian dialyzed patients were added for phylogenetic analysis. More than 80% of Romanian sequences clustered with isolates assigned to TTV1 and TTV3 (former genogroup 1), while the rest clustered with TTV19-SANBAN and TTV22-svi-1 (former genogroup 3) and TTV-Hebei-1. Phylogenetic analysis showed segregation between isolates from North-East and West Romania providing possible evidence of distinct geographical distribution.
Beehive Sound: Can It Indicate The Response Of Honey Bees To Chemicals In Or Out Of The Beehive?
Authors: Yu Baizhong , Huang Xinqiu , Sharif Muhammad Zahid , Jiang Xueli , Di Nayan , Liu Fanglin
Published: March 2022

Honey bees (Apis spp.) are widely used as biological indicators of environmental changes. Recently, bees have been explored by researchers to monitor air contamination by listening to their hive sound. However, no study has determined whether beehive sound reflects the responses of bees to in-hive or out-hive chemicals. In this study, we conducted a feeding experiment to address this. First, we fed colonies with pure syrup (PS), syrup containing acetone (SA) or syrup containing ethyl acetate (SE) to collect beehive sound to establish multiple classifications using machine learning (ML) models. Then, we orderly fed colonies with PS, followed by SE, SA and PS. Next, we fed colonies in PS, SA, SE and PS order. Eventually, we evaluated the recall and precision of the model in detecting each syrup type. The result built on orderly feeding had a recall of 99%, 80%, 30%, 53% in detecting PS, SE, SA, PS, respectively. In the reverse feeding experiment, the ML model has a recall of 99%, 89%, 37% and 44% in detecting PS, SA, SE, and PS, respectively. Because the collected syrup in the two orderly feeding sessions was not removed from the frames during the experiment, the results indicate that beehive sound responds to chemicals in or out of the beehive.
Vaccinia Virus H7-Protein Organizes the Viral Scaffold Protein-Essential for Membrane and Virus Assembly
Authors: Tonnemacher Susanne , Folly-Klan Marcia , Gazi Anastasia , Schäfer Simon , Penard Esthel , Eberle Regina , Kunz Renate , Walther Paul , Locker Jacomine Krijnse
Published: March 2022

Viruses of the giant virus family are characterized by a structurally conserved scaffold-capsid protein that shapes the icosahedral virion. The vaccinia virus (VACV) scaffold protein D13, however, transiently shapes the newly assembled viral membrane in to a sphere and is absent from the mature brick-shaped virion. In infected cells D13, a 62kDa polypeptide, forms trimers that arrange in hexamers and a honey-comb like lattice. Membrane association of the D13-lattice may be mediated by A17, an abundant 21kDa viral membrane protein. Whether membrane binding mediates the formation of the honey-comb lattice or if other factors are involved, remains elusive. Here we show that H7, a 17kDa protein conserved among poxviruses, mediates proper formation of D13-hexamers, and hence the honey comb lattice and spherical immature virus. Without H7 synthesis D13 trimers organize into a regular network, composed of short D13 tubes of discrete length that are tightly associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The data show an unexpected role for H7 in D13 organization and imply that formation of the honey-comb, hexagonal, lattice is essential for VACV membrane assembly and production of infectious progeny. The data are discussed with respect to scaffold proteins of other giant viruses.
Reducing Contrast-Agent Volume And Radiation Dose In CT With 90­Kvp Tube Voltage, High Tube Current Modulation, And Advanced Iteration Algorithm
Authors: Park Min Su , Ha Hong Il , Ahn Jhii-Hyun , Lee Sang Min , Lee In Jae
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the image quality and the radiation dose in pancreatic dynamic CT with 90­kVp tube voltage and reduction of the standard amount of contrast agent, compared with 100­kVp PDCT. 51 patients who underwent both CT protocols were included in this retrospective study. One reviewer measured the attenuation values of the abdominal organs and image noise for objective image quality analysis. Two radiologists evaluated the five categories of image qualities for subjective image quality analysis. As a result, the total amount of the contrast agent, the radiation dose, and image noise decreased in the low-kVp group, by 24.4%, 31.7%, and 20.6%, respectively (p < 0.001). The intraobserver and interobserver agreements were moderate to substantial (k = 0.4 − 0.8). The SNR and CNR of the almost organs in the low-kVp group were significantly higher (p < 0.001). Except for lesion conspicuity, both reviewers judged that the subjective image quality of the low-kVp group was better (p < 0.001). With 90­kVp tube voltage, reduced contrast agent volume with advanced iteration and high tube current modulation achieved radiation dose reduction of 31.7%, as well as better image quality and diagnostic confidence.
Multiple and contrasting pressures determine intraspecific phytochemical variation in a tropical shrub
Authors: Glassmire Andrea , Carson Walter , Smilanich Angela , Richards Lora , Jeffrey Christopher , Dodson Craig , Philbin Casey , Humberto Garcia , Dyer Lee
Published: March 2022

Intraspecific phytochemical variation across a landscape can cascade up trophic levels, potentially mediating the composition of entire insect communities. Surprisingly, we have little understanding of the processes that regulate and maintain phytochemical variation likely because these processes are complex and operate simultaneously both temporally and spatially. To assess how phytochemistry varies within species, we tested the degree to which resource availability, contrasting soil type, and herbivory generate intraspecific chemical variation in growth and defense of the tropical shrub, Piper imperiale (Piperaceae). We quantified changes in both growth (e.g., nutritional protein, above- and below-ground biomass) and defense (e.g., imide chemicals) of individual plants using a well-replicated fully factorial shade-house experiment in Costa Rica. We found that plants grown in low light and nutrient-poor residual soil had reduced foliar protein, while those grown in high light and richer old alluvial soil had increased protein. Thus, investment into growth was determined by resource availability and soil composition. Surprisingly, we found that chemical defenses decreased in response to herbivory. We also found that changes in plant protein were more plastic compared to plant defense, indicating that constitutive defenses may be relatively fixed, and thus an adaptation to chronic herbivory that is common in tropical forests. We demonstrate that intraspecific phytochemical variation of P. imperiale is shaped by resource availability from light and soil type. Because environmental heterogeneity occurs over small spatial scales (tens of meters), herbivores may be faced with a complex phytochemical landscape that may regulate how much damage any individual plant sustains.
Experimental Study on Different Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Pollution in High-Density Sludge Sediment of Copper Mines
Authors: Cai Ruoyan , Xue Jinchun , He Min , You Jiajia , Wang Weiwei , Han Huaqin , Tan Li
Published: March 2022

Purpose
HDS sediment is a type of solid waste produced when the high-concentration mud method (HDS) is adopted to treat acid wastewater from copper mines. It can rationally utilize sediment resources by using phytoremediation.
Methods
To reveal the effect of different phytoremediation on the heavy metal, enrichment capacity and microbial diversity of the HDS sediments of copper mines, in this experiment, the HDS sediments of a copper mine without phytoremediation were selected as the control group, while the sediments of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelmann) and Chinese white poplar (Populus tomentosa Carr.) were used as test groups to analyze the physical and chemical properties, heavy metal pollution and bioaccumulation capacity of HDS sediments under three phytoremediation.
Results
The results show that different phytoremediation can reduce the sediment's conductivity and adjust the sediment's pH value to the range suitable for plant growth. The BCFShoot and BTF values of Chinese white poplar to Cd and Zn and slash pine to Pb were both greater than 1.
Conclusions
As discovered from the bioconcentration coefficient and biotransport coefficient results, Chinese white poplar is an enriched plant of Cd and Zn, while slash pine is a plant full of Pb.
An Assessment of the Proportion of LGB+ Persons in the Belgian Population, their Identification as Sexual Minority, Mental Health and Experienced Minority Stress
Authors: De Schrijver Lotte , Fomenko Elizaveta , Krahé Barbara , Dewaele Alexis , Harb Jonathan , Janssen Erick , Motmans Joz , Roelens Kristien , Beken Tom Vander , Keygnaert Ines
Published: March 2022

Background: Previous studies report vast mental health problems in sexual minorities. Representative national proportion estimates on self-identifying LGB+ persons are missing in Belgium. Lacking data collection regarding sexual orientation in either census or governmental survey data limits our understanding of the true population sizes of different sexual orientation groups and their respective health outcomes. This study assessed the proportion of LGB+ and heterosexual persons in Belgium, LGB+ persons’ self-identification as sexual minority, mental health, and experienced minority stress. Method: A representative sample of 4,632 individuals drawn from the Belgian National Register completed measures of sexual orientation, subjective minority status and its importance for their identity as well as a range of mental-health measures. Results: LGB+ participants made up 10.02% of the total sample and 52.59% of LGB+ participants self-identified as sexual minority. Most sexual minority participants considered sexual minority characteristics important for their identity. LGB+ persons reported significantly worse mental health than heterosexual persons. Sexual minority participants did not report high levels of minority stress, but those who considered minority characteristics key for their identity reported higher levels of minority stress. LGB+ participants who did not identify as minority reported fewer persons they trust. Conclusions: The proportion of persons who identified as LGB+ was twice as large as the proportion of persons who identified as a minority based on their sexual orientation. LGB+ persons show poorer mental health compared to heterosexual persons. This difference was unrelated to minority stress, sociodemographic differences, minority identification, or the importance attached to minority characteristics.
The Influence of Aging on the Fracture Load of Monolithic Crowns
Authors: Sarıkaya Işıl , Güleç Ceyda
Published: March 2022

Background: This in-vitro study was conducted to assess the fracture load of molar crowns fabricated with monolithic CAD/CAM materials. Methods: The crown restorations were produced from Cerasmart, Vita Enamic, and IPS e.max CAD blocks. Dual-axis chewing simulator (50 N, 1.1 Hz, lateral movement: 1 mm, mouth opening: 2 mm, 1,200,000 cycles) and thermocycling (± 5-55 °C, 6000 cycles) were applied as an aging procedure to half of the samples. Aging was not applied to the other half of the specimens. Then, all samples were evaluated in a universal testing machine to determine the fracture loading values’. Repeated measures of Variance analysis were used for statistical analysis of the data (p < 0.05).Results: The aging applied Vita Enamic crowns (1978,71 ± 364,05 N) were exhibited the lowest fracture load value. No aging process applied IPS e. max CAD crowns (3098,4 ± 667,09 N) were exhibited the highest fracture load value. According to the fracture load values after the aging process, statistically significantly different was found Vita Enamic crowns from all the others.Conclusions: Cerasmart, Vita Enamic, and IPS e.max CAD monolithic crowns used in the study were found resistant to the 5-years aging process via chewing simulator. Cerasmart, a hybrid ceramic material may be used as an alternative to IPS e.max CAD when considering the behavior against fracture load.
Lidocaine transdermal patch reduced the pain intensity in neuropathic cancer patients with opioid treatment
Authors: Lin Peng-Chan , Tsai Jui-Hung , Liu I-Ting , Su Pei-Fang , Huang Ying-Tzu , Chiu Ge-Lin , Chen Yu-Yeh , Lai Wei-Shu
Published: March 2022

Background:Limited efficacy has been observed when using opioid to treat neuropathic pain. Lidocaine patches reduce neuropathic pain in post-herpetic neuralgia, but their benefits for cancer-related neuropathic pain remain unclear. This study aimed to demonstrate a useful treatment for cancer-related neuropathic pain. The primary endpoint was pain intensity evaluated by the numerical rating scale (NRS). The secondary endpoints were the pain relief score and the quality of analgesic treatment. Methods:We assessed the efficacy and safety of lidocaine transdermal patches in patients experiencing neuropathic cancer pain.Terminal cancer patients with opioid treatmentparticipated in the 3-day study. Results:The results showed a statistically significant difference in the median NRS over three days (Kruskal-Wallis test, P<0.0001). The median NRS pain intensity from Day 1 to Day 3 was 4.0 with 95% C.I. (3.3, 5.0), 3.0 (2.5, 3.5) and 2.5 (2.0, 3.0), respectively. The difference between the median NRS pain intensities of any two days was statistically significant (Wilcoxon signed-rank test, P < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in the pain relief score or the quality of analgesic treatment. Conclusions:In this study, the 5% lidocaine transdermal patch reduced the NRS pain intensity in neuropathic cancer patients with opioid treatment. The transdermal patch is generally useful and well-tolerated.
Mathematical Modeling of The Transmission Dynamics of Amoebiasis With Some Interventions
Authors: Mwaijande Stephen Edward , Mpogolo Godfrey Edward
Published: March 2022

A mathematical model for amoebiasis is developed and presented. The model captures some control interventions such as screening, treatment, and sanitation. The effective reproductive number is computed and is used to analyze the stability of the model system. Sensitivity analysis is used to investigate the parameters that impact the transmission of the disease; as such, it could need more attention to bring the disease to an end. Numerical results show a reduction in infections when at least each of the control measures considered is applied efficiently. Moreover, the findings show that carriers play a potential role in the prevalence of amoebiasis, ignoring them undermines the efforts of containing this epidemic. On the other hand, sensitivity analysis shows that indirect transmission contributes to more infections than direct transmission.
Effect of High-Intensity Exercise on Early Responses of Iron and Iron Regulatory Proteins in Young Female Basketball Players
Authors: Cichoń Justyna , Ostapiuk-Karolczuk Joanna , Cieślicka Mirosława , Dziewiecka Hanna , Marcinkiewicz Anita , Tafil-Klawe Małgorzata , Basta Piotr , Maciejewski Dariusz , Skarpańska-Stejnborn Anna
Published: March 2022

Background
Accumulation of physiological stress and the presence of inflammation disturb iron management in athletes during intense training. However, little is known about the mechanisms regulating iron levels in athletes during training periods with low training loads. In the current study, we analyzed the effect of exercise on early responses of iron and iron regulatory proteins during such training periods.
Methods
The study was performed at the end of competitive phase of training. Twenty-seven trained female basketball players (age, 16,55 ± 0,96 years; weight, 66,40 ± 13,68 kg) participated in the study. The participants performed a maximum exercise test on a treadmill. Blood samples were taken before the test, immediately after exercise, and after 3 h of restitution. Parameters, such as interleukin (IL) 6, hepcidin, ferritin, transferrin, hemopexin, and lactoferrin levels, and TIBC and UIBC were determined by using appropriate biochemical tests.
Results
Intense physical effort performed at the end of the competitive phase led to an increase in iron levels after exercise. The iron levels decreased within 3 h of exercise. No significant changes in the levels of hepcidin, IL-6, and other proteins related to the regulation of iron levels were observed. Except for iron levels, only TIBC levels significantly increased after exercise and decreased to baseline level during rest period.
Conclusions
The results suggest that at the end of the competitive phase of training, when training loads are much lower than those at the beginning or in the middle of competitive phase, the post-exercise increase in iron levels is not necessarily accompanied by a simultaneous increase in the levels of hepcidin or inflammatory markers. Ferritin may be the source of iron ions and transferrin may be responsible for their return to baseline. However, both the source of the released iron ions and the mechanism responsible for their regulation require further research.
Major cardiovascular events and readmission risk of patients post percutaneous coronary intervention in one year based on ApoB/ApoA-Ι
Authors: Zhang Jie , Yao Linlin , Ferdous Misbahul , Zhu Baolong , Zhao Peng , Li Xiujun
Published: March 2022

Background: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a practical and effective method for the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD).The aim of this study is to assess the clinical value of ApoB/ApoA-Ι in predicting the major cardiovascular events(MACEs) and hospital readmission risk within one year in CHD patients post PCI. Methods: 1938 patients who underwent PCI treatment from January 2010 to December 2018 were included in this retrospective study. Basic information, medications and biochemical indicators were recorded at admission and the one year follow-up. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model were performed to determine the relationship between ApoB/ApoA-Ι and MACEs, as well as readmission. The Kaplan-Meier curves were plotted to illustrate the cumulative incidence of MACEs and readmission. Predictive nomograms were established to predict prognosis for MACEs and readmission. Results: Cox regression analysis showed that ApoB/ApoA-Ι is an independent risk factor for MACEs in patients after PCI(P=0.031). The incidence of MACEs in the high-level ApoB/ApoA-Ι group (ApoB/ApoA-Ι ratio>0.824) increased within one year and the difference was statistically significant(P=0.037). The incidence of readmission increased within one year was not statistically significant. In addition, the nomogram predicted one year MACEs more accurately(C-index: 0.647).Conclusions: The ratio of ApoB/ApoA-Ι has important predictive value for the risk of MACEs occurrence in one year for CHD patients post PCI.
Prognostıc Value And Morphologıcal Fındıngs Of Overexpressıon Of Glypıcan-3 In Hepatocellular Carcınoma
Authors: Karaogullarindan Ümit , Uskudar Oguz , Odabas Emre , Tozluklu Nur , Güler Hasan Selim , Kuran Sedef , Benli Burcu Arslan , Gümürdülü Yüksel
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the seventh most common cancer all over the world and is second in cancer-related deaths. . In HCC, whose prognosis is still not good despite current treatments, there is a need for prognostic markers as well as early diagnosis. Glypican (GPC)-3 has been proposed as a potential serologic and histochemical marker specific to HCC. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between GPC3 overexpression and HCC prognosis and clinicomorphologic features.Patients and methods: In total 152 patients patients who were diagnosed as a result of hepatectomy, lobectomy, or liver transplantation were enrolled. The patients were divided into two groups as GPC3-positive (>10%) and GPC3-negative (<10%). The demographic data of the patients ,tumor characteristics , survival times were recorded.Results: Survival was significantly lower in the GPC3+ group. In the multivariate analysis, hepatitis C, AFP, tumor number, tumor focality, portal vein tumor thrombosis, and GLP3 positivity were found to be independent risk factors on survival.Conclusion: Our study showing that GPC3 overexpression is a poor prognostic factor in HCC.GLP3 positivity were found to be independent risk factors on survival.
The private sector market for mRDTs in Nigeria - results of the 2018 market survey.
Authors: Edwards Hannah M. , Sarwar Rubaiyath , Mahmud Parvez , Emmanuel Shekarau , Maxwell Kolawole , Tibenderana James K.
Published: March 2022

BackgroundTo avoid misuse of antimalarials, correct diagnosis of fever prior to drug prescription is essential. Presumptive treatment in the private healthcare sector is a concern in Nigeria where availability of affordable artemisinin combination therapy is high following the implementation of subsidy schemes from 2010 to 2017. Similar subsidies have not, however, been implemented for malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs). A market survey in 2018 predominantly designed to assess the ACT market in the private sector also collected data related to mRDTs, results of which are presented herein. MethodsA 2018 market survey consisted of i) an outlet survey targeting private pharmacies and Proprietary and Patent Medicine Vendors (PPMVs) across different regions of Nigeria to assess supply-side market factors related to availability of mRDTs and ii) a household survey to determine demand-side factors related to knowledge of mRDTs, healthcare-seeking practices and affordability. ResultsAvailability of mRDTs at the time of the survey was low in both outlet types and significantly lower in PPMVs (22.1%, 95% CI [17.7-27.1] among pharmacies versus 13.6%, 95% CI [10.3-17.5] among PPMVs, p<0.01). Reasons for not restocking mRDTs included low demand and no supply. The majority of households diagnose malaria based on experience, while one-third would visit a PPMV or pharmacy. Half of HHs had heard of mRDTs (48.4%) and 38.6% thought they were affordable.ConclusionLow availability of mRDTs among PPMVs and pharmacies may be attributed to lack of demand, supply-side issues and cost. Increasing HH knowledge of mRDTs may aid increasing demand, while subsidised mRDTs may address supply and price issues. Addressing the deficit in mRDT provision is important to prevent over-prescription of ACT medicines.
Identification of texture MRI brain abnormalities on first-episode psychosis and clinical high-risk patients using explainable artificial intelligence
Authors: Korda Alexandra , Andreou Christina , Rogg Helena Victoria , Avram Mihai , Ruef Anne , Davatzikos Christos , Koutsouleris Nikolaos , Borgwardt Stefan
Published: March 2022

Structural MRI studies in first-episode psychosis and the clinical high-risk state have consistently shown volumetric abnormalities. Aim of the present study was to introduce radiomics texture features in identification of psychosis. Radiomics texture features describe the interrelationship between voxel intensities across multiple spatial scales capturing the hidden information of underlying disease dynamics in addition to volumetric changes. Structural MR images were acquired from 77 first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients, 58 clinical high-risk patients with no later transition to psychosis (CHR_NT), 15 clinical high-risk patients with later transition (CHR_T) and 44 healthy controls (HC). Radiomics texture features were extracted from non-segmented images, and two classification schemas were performed for the identification of FEP vs. HC and FEP vs. CHR_NT. The group of CHR_T was used as external validation in both schemas. The classification of a subject’s clinical status was predicted by importing separately a) the difference of entropy feature map and b) the contrast feature map, resulting in classification accuracy above 72% in both analyses. The proposed framework enhances the classification decision for FEP, CHR_NT and HC subjects, verifies diagnosis-relevant features and may potentially contribute to identification of structural biomarkers for psychosis, beyond and above volumetric brain changes.
The Relationship Between Physical Activity Level and Obesity-related Chronic Disease: a Cohort Study
Authors: Tajali Azam , Azizi Mohammad , Moradi Mehdi , Tahmasebi Worya
Published: March 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the physical activity level of men with women and to evaluate the relationship between physical activity level with obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in Ravansar, Kermanshah province, Iran.Method: This study was conducted based on the data from Ravansar non-communicable disease (RaNCD) cohort study examining 10059 men and women aged 35-65. The body mass index, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar were measured. The standard physical activity questionnaire (SPAQ) was obtained and the participants were divided into three categories; inactive, relatively active, and active using MET. Results: The results show that 47.42% of participants in the cohort were male (n=770). While the prevalence of diabetes was higher in men (7.98% of women vs. 8.39% of men), the prevalence of obesity (36.5% vs. 16.8%), and blood pressure (18.28% vs. 16.8%) were higher in women, respectively. Only 33.6% of men and 10.1% of women were categorized as active (MET≥45) (p <0.05). The results also indicate an inverse, significant relationship between the physical activity level and obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in both men and women, not in men (P >0.001). Active men and women (METs≥45) had lower risks for developing obesity, diabetes, and hypertension compared with inactive counterparts (METs = 24-36.5).Conclusion: Due to the high prevalence of obesity and overweight and also the effect of increased physical activity on reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension development, suitable programs to increase the physical activity level must be considered in men and women.
Symbiotic Wolbachia bacteria in coccinellid parasitoids: genetic diversity, horizontal transfer and recombination
Authors: Shaikevich Elena , Romanov Denis
Published: March 2022

Parasitoids, which constitute about 25% of all insects and attack arthropods of virtually all taxa, are considered the most suitable vectors for horizontal transmission of the symbiotic bacterium Wolbachia among insects. The parasitoids studied in this article develop in the larvae and pupae of ladybirds. For the first time, Wolbachia was found in parasitic wasp species of the genus Homalotylus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and from the subfamily Tetrastichinae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). To characterize the Wolbachia strains, six bacterial housekeeping genes were examined and compared with previously published Wolbachia gene sequences. The same bacterial strains were found in all individuals of each species of parasitic wasps collected in different places and at different times, which indicates the absence of contamination and testifies to the heritability of the symbionts in the studied chalcids. No evidence was found that the parasitic wasps were infected with Wolbachia, identical to the symbionts of their ladybirds hosts. The exception was the Wolbachia wHom-2 strain, which is a product of bacterial recombination from unrelated insects, including ladybirds. The lack of correspondence between the molecular phylogenies of Wolbachia strains and mithochondrial DNA of their hosts and the discovered case of recombinant haplotype indicate horizontal transfers of Wolbachia among parasitic wasps.
Anticipation of Flood Susceptibility in Urbanized Regions Using Machine Learning Technique: Case Study of New Cairo City, Egypt
Authors: Wahba Mohamed , Sharaan Mahmoud , Elsadek Wael , Kanae Shinjiro , Shokry H.
Published: March 2022

Climate change is driving growth in extreme weather events through vast world regions. Therefore, one of the most destructive calamities of climate change is flash flooding. This research aims to predict the most prone areas to flash floods in urban regions using machine learning techniques. Moreover, the runoff depth has been calculated via HEC-RAS software to use it as a conditioning parameter. Subsequentially, seven environmental factors (elevation, slope, flow length, distance to streams, maximum runoff depth, land use, and curve number) were adopted in New Cairo city, Egypt, where the flash flood occurs persistently. A combination of spatial flooded points and environmental parameters has been utilized using a genetic algorithm for Rule-set Prediction (GARP) to generate a flood susceptibility map (FSM). Furthermore, the FSM accounted nearly fifth of the total area for very high prone to floods whilst 40.03% and 13.14% of the city have very low and low hazards, respectively. Additionally, the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) method was used to validate the FSM which gave 71.5% for the area under curve (AUC). Eventually, Decision-makers can use the produced flood danger map to better understand the consequences of flash floods and to prepare alternative plans to mitigate this hazard.
Association of ANRIL gene single- nucleotide polymorphisms with Allergic rhinitis in Kurdish population from Kermanshah, Iran
Authors: Falahi Sara , Feizolahi Parisa , Monshizadeh Ali , Mahmoudi Zahra , Mahdavi Jila , Salari Farhad , Karaji Ali Gorgin , Rezaiemanesh Alireza
Published: March 2022

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the most common inflammatory disorder of the upper airway caused by aberrant immune responses to allergens in genetically predisposed individuals. Recently, the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) antisense non-coding RNA in the INK4 locus (ANRIL) has been identified as a novel genetic factor associated with increased AR risk. This study aimed to evaluate the potential correlation of ANRIL gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with AR risk in the kurdish population of Kermanshah, Iran.Methods: In this case-control study, 130 AR patients and 130 healthy controls were recruited to genotype for two SNPs of the ANRIL gene (rs1333048, rs10757278) using the Tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system PCR (T-ARMS-PCR) method.Results: Our results showed no significant difference for the alleles and genotypes frequency distribution of lncRNA ANRIL SNPs (rs1333048, rs10757278) between AR patients and healthy controls (p> 0.05). Additionally, the dominant, additive, and recessive genetic models of both SNPs were not associated with altered susceptibility to AR risk (p> 0.05).Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the ANRIL gene rs1333048 and rs10757278 polymorphisms might not be associated with susceptibility to AR in the kurdish population of Kermanshah, Iran
The distinguishing Predictive Value of CD4, CD8, and C - reactive protein in the Prognosis of Schistosomal and Non-Schistosomal Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhai Qilin , Jing Hongyan , Bu Dacheng , Liu Jing , Lu Kui , Liu Jican , Xu Yanchao , Zhu Ting , Hou Yingyong , Yao Junxia , Wang Weixia
Published: March 2022

Background: The comparison of inflammation related factors between SCRC and non-schistosomal colorectal cancer (NSCRC) was not reported in previous literatures, and the inflammation based prognostic systems of SCRC were also unknown.Aim: To explore the different roles of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and CRP in SCRC and in NSCRC, providing a possible predictive system to evaluate outcomes and to improve the risk stratification for CRC patients, especially for patients with schistosomiasis.Methods: 351 CRC tumours were evaluated for density of CD4+, CD8+ T cells and CRP in intratumoural and stromal compartments by immunohistochemical using tissue microarray.Results: There were no association between TILs and CRP and schistosomiasis. Multivariate analysis identified sCD4 (p=0.038), iCD8 (p=0.003), schistosomiasis (p=0.045) as independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in the whole cohort; and sCD4 (p=0.006) and iCD8 (p=0.020) were independent prognostic factors for OS in the NSCRC and SCRC set, respectively. Besides, we found that there were no differences of TILs and CRP, which were distributed in different areas of tumor tissue, between CRC patients with and without schistosomiasis.Conclusion: TILs in different tumor areas has distinguished predictive value in CRC patients with schistosomiasis and without schistosomiasis, reflecting variable tumor immunoenvironments in them.
Comparison Of The Quality Of Death Between Primary Malignant Brain Tumor Patients And Other Cancer Patients: Results From A Nationwide Bereavement Survey In Japan
Authors: Aoyama Maho , Masukawa Kento , Sugiyama Ikuko , Morita Tatsuya , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Tsuneto Satoru , Shima Yasuo , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: March 2022

Purpose: No studies have investigated the association between malignant brain tumor and the quality of dying, which is an important outcome in end-of-life care. This study aimed to clarify whether the quality of dying and related factors in patients with malignant brain tumor differ from those in patients with other malignant diseases.Methods: This was a secondary analysis of data collected by two nationwide, multicenter, bereavement surveys of palliative care units in Japan. This analysis included 14,171 bereaved family members (160 patients with malignant brain tumors). The quality of dying was examined using the Good Death Inventory (GDI), a validated tool widely used in palliative care settings.Results: Patients with malignant brain tumors were younger (ES=0.08, p<0.0001) and had a longer palliative care unit stay during their end-of-life (ES=0.05, p<0.0001) than others. The total GDI score was significantly lower in patients with malignant brain tumors (β=-0.02, p<0.0001). Four GDI items were significantly lower in the malignant brain tumor group: “Being able to stay in one’s favorite place” (β=-0.02, p=0.03); “Trusting the physician” (β=-0.02, p=0.003); “Being independent in daily activities” (β=-0.02, p=0.01); and “Feeling that one’s life is worth living” (β=-0.02, p=0.001).Conclusion: This study showed that the quality of dying of patients with malignant brain tumors was lower, suggesting the need to review care for patients with malignant brain tumors based on their characteristics. Care that values personal dignity and early end-of-life decision-making can be more important to improve the quality of dying in patients with malignant brain tumors.
Indigenous Language Shift In Shinasha Community
Authors: Amanu Adugnaw Techane , Woyila Habtamu Anbessie
Published: March 2022

Shinasha is an Omotic and northern Gonga language. It is a minority language of Ethiopia. This paper discusses language shift and maintenance in Shinasha community. The purpose of this study is to assess language shift in Shinasha. More specifically, to identify the factors that lead some of the Shinasha people to use other languages, to show in which domain Shinasha language preferred and to indicate which language Shinasha people prefer in various domains. To collect the necessary data for the study, interview, questionnaire and focus group discussion were used as data collection instruments. The descriptive survey research design was used to conduct this study by using both quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. The result showed that demography, economy, psychology and intermarriage are some of the major factors that led Shinasha people to shift from Shinasha to other indigenous languages. Amharic and Afan Oromo are used in various domains by Shinasha youths. On the other hand, a few elders speak Shinasha language. In general, in Shisha community youths prefer Amharic, Afan Oromo and Awngi in various domains bcause of economic, attitudinal, historical, demographic factors.
Factors Associated with Oxygen Extraction Ratio and Pulmonary to Systemic Blood Flow in Parallel Circulation: Insights From Cardiac Catheterization Data
Authors: Loomba Rohit S. , Villarreal Enrique G. , Wong Joshua , Jensen Kristin , Farias Juan S. , Savorgnan Fabio , Flores Saul
Published: March 2022

Background
Parallel circulation represents a unique physiologic state in children with functionally univentricular cardiac anatomy characterized by the arterial saturation being a weighted average of the pulmonary venous and systemic venous saturation leaving circulation at increased risk for developing inadequate systemic oxygen delivery. The primary aim of study was to utilize pre-Glenn catheterization data to determine the association of different hemodynamic variables on oxygen extraction ratio. Secondary aims included determining the association of hemodynamic variables on superior vena cava (SVC) saturation and pulmonary to systemic blood flow ratio (Qp:Qs).
Methods
This was a single-center, retrospective study using data from children with parallel circulation prior to Glenn procedure between 2017–2020. Correlation analyses using spearman correlation were conducted between all the variables of interest to survey potential correlations. A linear regression analysis was conducted to model the oxygen extraction ratio using variables noted to have a statistically significant correlation. Receiver operator curve analyses were conducted for variables with a p-value of less than 0.20 and binary variables were created for the predictors that had an area under the curve of greater than 0.70. Separate regression analyses were conducted for each with either SVC saturation or Qp:Qs as dependent variable. Independent variables were identified based on the factors found to have a statistically significant correlation with the dependent variable from the initial spearman correlation analyses.
Results
A total of 45 patients were included in the final analyses. Median oxygen extraction ratio was 32.0% and it significantly increases as SVC saturation decreases, systemic blood flow decreases, total cardiac output decreases, Qp:Qs increases and systemic vascular resistance increases. Regression analyses with oxygen extraction ratio as the dependent variable demonstrated that systemic blood flow, SVC saturation, and Qp:Qs were significantly associated with oxygen extraction ratio. Regression analysis with SVC saturation as the dependent variable demonstrated that systemic arterial saturation, systemic blood flow and hemoglobin were significantly associated with SVC saturation:
Conclusion
Oxygen extraction ratio in parallel circulation is significantly associated with systemic blood flow, SVC saturation, and Qp:Qs. SVC saturation is further associated with systemic arterial saturation and hemoglobin while Qp:Qs is associated with systemic vascular resistance, pulmonary vascular resistance, and pulse pressure. Understanding of these factors can help guide clinical monitoring and management strategies for this high-risk circulation.
Effect of Magnetic and Electric Fields on Synthesis of Cu Nanoparticles by Laser Ablation Method and Investigation of their Structural Properties
Authors: Razaghianpour Mahdieh , hantehzadeh mohammad reza , Sari Amir Hossein , Darabi Elham
Published: March 2022

In this study, copper nanoparticles were synthesized and identified by laser ablation method. For the synthesis of copper nanoparticles, a constant magnetic field equal to 10 mT and different electric fields equal to 0, 10, 15, 20 and 25 V/Cm were applied and their effect on the properties and morphology of the nanoparticles were investigated. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, FTIR, RAMAN, UV–Vis spectrum, FE-SEM and TEM analyzes. The results of UV–Vis spectrum indicated that the size of nanoparticles was decreased by increasing the applied electric field. RAMAN and XRD analysis showed that the amount of copper nanoparticles were increased with increasing the applied electric field and also FTIR analysis confirmed that copper nanoparticles were formed. The FESEM images showed that with increasing electric field along with constant magnetic field, nanoparticles from spherical to flower-shaped and to rod-like were formed. The purity of the synthesized copper nanoparticles was confirmed by EDX spectra. TEM images of the nanoparticles showed that by increasing the electric field, the crystalline form of the nanoparticles shifted from large scales spherical particles to rod-like nanoparticles and then transformed to rod-like with very small spherical particles.
Relativity and View Effects
Authors: Fischli Bernard
Published: March 2022

Relativity has been based on the implicit assumption that it would exclusively describe interactions. Relativistic view effects are included as well, and they act with no force and no energy exchanges. The Ehrenfest paradox is solved. View effects specific to each point of view are the solution. The calculation of the deflection of light by the sun explains in detail why the deflection angle must be almost double the value obtained with Newton’s laws. The compatibility of General Relativity with the new interpretation is discussed. An object has no speed limit due to gravitation but it is limited in speed with electromagnetism. Inertial behavior is examined. The equivalence principle does not introduce gravitation to General Relativity. Relativity impacts the energy formula of electromagnetism using the Lorentz factor which also introduces view effects that are optical illusions with no impact on energy.
Observational Study on Chest Pain During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Changes and Characteristics of Visits to a Norwegian Emergency Department During the Lockdown.
Authors: Grande Mikkel , Bjørnsen Lars Petter , Næss-Pleym Lars Eide , Laugsand Lars Erik , Grenne Bjørnar
Published: March 2022

Background: As the Covid-19 pandemic spread during 2020, reports emerged on a decline in emergency department (ED) visits, including patients with chest pain. The current study aimed to describe the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent national lockdown for the chest pain population in a Norwegian ED. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively in all patients presenting to the ED with chest pain from January 6th to August 30th 2020. Variations in the number of ED visits, severity, gender and age were assessed and compared to the corresponding period in 2019.Results: Following the national lockdown, fewer patients presented to the ED compared to the corresponding weeks in 2019 (week 13: down 38%; weeks 11-27: down 16%). Numbers normalized by week 28 compared to 2019 levels. There were relatively fewer moderate acuity patients in this period, while there was an increase in lower acuity patients during the same period. The median age was lower in the first weeks following lockdown compared to the same period in 2019 (58 years (IQR 25) vs 62 years (IQR 24), respectively). The proportion of patients admitted with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) remained stable. Conclusions: Fewer patients presented to the ED after the Covid-19 outbreak and the subsequent national lockdown in Norway. The patients were on average younger, and seemed paradoxically to be less severely ill. The proportion of patients with ACS was however stable, implying that some patients with myocardial infarctions may have failed to seek medical advice.