bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exercise Regulates Peripheral Blood Serotonin to Improve the Addiction and Impulse of Methamphetamine Withdrawal Patients
Authors: Tang Wanke , Zheng Lan 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to explore the effect of aerobic combined with resistance exercise on the level of 5-HT in the peripheral blood of methamphetamine (METH) withdrawal patients, improving cue-induced craving and impulse. Methods： Fifty methamphetamine withdrawal patients were included. The patients underwent eight weeks of aerobic combined with resistance exercise. The sessions lasted an hour and were conducted five times a week. Impulsivity (BIS-11), craving (VAS craving), and control (VAS control) were assessed before and after the intervention. ELISA was used to detect peripheral blood 5-HT levels. Results： The results showed that peripheral blood 5-HT and VAS control significantly increased after the exercise. In contrast, VAS craving and BIS-11 significantly decreased after the exercise. Conclusions： We present that eight weeks of aerobic combined with resistance exercise can alter the peripheral blood 5-HT levels of METH withdrawal patients and improve the cue-induced craving and impulse levels.
Greenhouse Gas Emission Widens Income Inequality in Africa
Authors: Ashenafi Biruk Birhanu 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Over the past couple of decades, we have witnessed a rise in greenhouse gas emissions and widening income inequality that threaten human well-being. Addressing these challenges and ensuring sustainable economic growth becomes a pressing issue for the development policy agendas across Africa. This paper offers an answer for the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on income inequality by taking the most vulnerable region. In doing so, a panel data set from 1981–2015 across 49 countries are used and applied a panel data fixed effect regression and instrumental variable method (IV). We establish s causal relationship and show that greenhouse gas emission widens income inequality. We further cemented our baseline finding using alternative emission indicators typical to the Agrarian society. Our findings shed light on alternative development policy choices to the African continent where the traditional policy prescription does not fit the current dynamics in demography, urbanization, and agricultural practices. Hence, we emphasize the Agriculture Development Lead Industrialization (ADLI) policy that places high importance on transforming the livelihood of the people engaged in agriculture. The approach has proven to unlock the trinity challenge posed by environmental degradation, income inequality, and stagnant economic growth. Indeed, industrialization can be realized through transforming agriculture first. Adding value to agriculture reduces emission, redistributes income, and eventually maintains steady per capita income growth in Africa.
Association Between Backfat Thickness at 28 Weeks Old and Production Traits of Primiparous Landrace Sows Raised Under Tropical Conditions
Authors: Thiengpimol Praew , Koonawootrittriron Skorn , Suwanasopee Thanathip 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Backfat thickness could reflex energy reserve of the female pigs that is required for their productivity, especially gilts that might be selected for the replacements. Therefore, phenotypic and genetic correlations between backfat thickness (BF) and production traits were estimated and considered for the possibility of using BF at pre-selective stage as an early indicator for productivity of the sow. Pedigree information, BF and body weight (BW) at 28 weeks old, age at first farrowing (AFF), transformed proportion of piglet loss at birth (tPL) and transformed weaning to first service interval (tWSI) of 806 primiparous Landrace sows were used to estimate the variance components by restricted maximum likelihood procedure with an average information algorithm for multivariate analysis. Genetic correlation between BF and BW was 0.70 ± 0.13. Both BF and BW had negative genetic correlation with AFF, but not tWSI. Unfortunately, genetic correlation estimates between tPL and other traits was unclear due to high standard error. The genetic correlation between AFF and tWSI was 0.78 ± 0.36. Besides 19.35% of sires, 26.34% of dams and 25.81% of sows had genetic ability for BF, BW, AFF and WSI above the population means. The genetic association between BF, BW, AFF and tWSI indicated the feasibility of using selection index to improve BF and BW at pre-selective stage and reduce AFF and tWSI of replacement gilt simultaneously. However, the estimation of genetic correlation between PL and other traits should be repeated in a larger population.
Mapping of QTL Associated With Heat Tolerance At The Reproductive Stage In Rice(Oryza Sativa L.)
Authors: Jin Liu , Ma Xiaoding , Zhou Huiying , Li Shuhui , Cui Di , Hu Jiaxiao , Han Bing , Li Maomao , Han Longzhi 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Climate change has a negative effect on rice production and food security. High temperature stress is a major obstacle and can significantly reduce yield. A set of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross between Longdao5 (heat-sensitive) and Zhongyouzao8 (heat-tolerant) was used in the identification of heat tolerant QTL. Spikelet fertility (SF) and heat tolerance (HT) indexes showed a significant difference among the parents and RILs population, and SF and HT have different of effect under natural and artificial high temperature conditions. Sixty-one QTLs were detected on chromosomes 1-8, 10 and 12, while 25, 27 and 14 additive QTLs were identified under the control, natural and artificial high temperature conditions, respectively. Pleiotropic effects and QTL hotspots are the key factors affecting these traits, three key major QTL clusters qHTSF1, qHTSF4, and qHTSF12 can be stably expressed. In addition, epistatic effect is an important component in the regulation of heat tolerance. A total of 17 pairs of epistatic interaction loci were detected, and these additive QTL clusters have a significant epistatic effect. Bulk segregant analysis (BSA) method was proved to be a convenient method to detect major QTLs. Three QTLs, namely qSF1, qSF2 and qSF12 were detected under high temperature environment, and there is a highly significant correlation among these addictive QTLs. These results will lay the foundation for the further fine mapping of these major QTLs and enrich the molecular marker-assisted selection of heat-tolerant gene resources in rice breeding.
Semi-Prone Thoracoscopic Esophagectomy for Esophageal Carcinoma with Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery and Non-Recurrent Inferior Laryngeal Nerve: A Case Report
Authors: Koyama Kazunori , Watanabe Toru , Kato Hideaki , Kawaguchi Masahiko 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background

Aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) accompanied by non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve (NRILN) is a rare anomaly. In cases of thoracic esophageal carcinoma associated with ARSA and NRILN, surgeons must take extra care not to injury these vessels and nerves. We believe semi-prone thoracoscopic esophagectomy to be a surgical approach that can safely deal with such an anomaly.
Case presentation:

A 70-year-old man complained of feelings of chest constriction. Endoscopic examination revealed an esophageal tumor and computed tomography showed an ARSA. we performed semi-prone thoracoscopic esophagectomy for case with ARSA and NRILN. We identified these anomalies during esophagectomy, and we could complete surgery without injury these vessels and nerves. The patient had an uneventful recovery and discharged 22 days after surgery.
Conclusions

Semi-prone thoracoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal carcinoma can be performed safely with a wide operative field, and is an excellent procedure for dissecting esophageal carcinoma in patients with ARSA and NRILN.
Spectacle Lenses With Slightly Aspherical Lenslets for Myopia Control: Clinical Trial Design and Baseline Data
Authors: Chen Junhong , Zhuo Ran , Chen Jiayan , Yang Adeline , Lim Ee Woon , Bao Jinhua , Drobe Björn , Spiegel Daniel P. , Chen Hao , Hou Lijie 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Objectives: Myopia is a major public health problem and it is essential to find safe and effective means to control its progression. The study design and baseline data are presented for a one-year prospective, double-masked, cross-over, randomized clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of single vision spectacle lenses with concentric rings of slightly aspherical contiguous lenslets technology (SAL) on myopia control. Methods: One hundred 8- to 13-year old Chinese children with a refractive error of -0.75 D to -4.75 D were assigned into two groups. In Group 1, SAL then single vision lenses were each worn for 6 months, and Group 2 wore the lenses in the reversed order. Primary outcomes are axial length and spherical equivalent of cycloplegic refractive error. Secondary outcomes include corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, visual acuity, and lens adaptation.Results: No significant differences in baseline parameters (cycloplegic spherical equivalent, axial length, age) were found between groups (0.49 < p < 0.94). All children adapted well to the test lenses and there was no significant difference in visual acuity between the SAL and single vision lenses (p = 0.27).Conclusions: The children in the two well balanced groups had comparable visual acuity and adapted well to the test lenses. These results imply the visual acuity can be well improved by SAL lens. Clear visual acuity provide the assurance for good compliance in this longitudinal study.
Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation in Response To Postural Change in Patients with Pectus Excavatum in Taiwan: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hsu Yu-Ting , Cheng Yeung-Leung , Chang Yi-Wei , Lan Chou-Chin , Wu Yao-Kuang , Yang Mei-Chen 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background Pectus excavatum (PE) negatively impacts psychological function, but its effect on autonomic nervous system (ANS) function has not been investigated. We evaluated ANS function following postural changes in patients with PE.Methods The participants were 14 healthy men (control group) and 20 men with PE (study group). Psychological function was assessed using the visual analog scale for pain, Brief Symptom Rating Scale-5, and Beck Depression Inventory-II. Sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). ANS regulation in response to postural change was measured in the supine position and immediately after sitting. All measurements were compared between the control and study groups at baseline and between the study groups before and after Nuss surgery.ResultsAt baseline, upon postural change, symptomatic activity increased in the control group (50.3% to 67.4%, p=0.035) but not in the study group (55.0% to 54.9%, p=0.654); parasympathetic activity decreased in the control group (49.7% to 32.6%, p=0.035) but not in the study group (45.1% to 45.1%, p=0.654); and overall ANS regulation increased in the control group (1.02 to 2.08, p=0.030) but not in the study group (1.22 to 1.22, p=0.322). In response to postural change after Nuss surgery in the study group, sympathetic activity increased (48.7% to 70.2%, p=0.005), parasympathetic activity decreased (51.3% to 29.8%, p=0.005), and overall ANS regulation increased (0.95 to 2.36, p=0.012).Conclusion ANS function in response to postural change is dysregulated in patients with PE, which improved after Nuss surgery.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03346876, November 15, 2017, retrospectively registered,https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S0007KGI&selectaction=Edit&uid=U0003JZU&ts=2&cx=cstxeg
A Decentralized Threshold Signature Scheme of Blockchain-Based Medical Cyber Physical Systems
Authors: Zhou Xianfei , Huang Jing , Chen Fulong , Tang Yuqing , Wang Canlin 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
With the rapid development of medical information, the medical cyber system is rapidly transforming, and medical information sharing faces new challenges. Blockchain technology is a revolutionary technology. It has the characteristics of tamper-proof and privacy-preserving, and has natural protection for big data systems, that can be used in medical systems. In this paper,we proposed to store medical cyber physical data in a mixed blockchain with private blockchain and consortium blockchain in order to realize the secure storage of medical cyber physical data by the tamper-resistant and sharing of blockchain technology. In the system, a threshold signature system based on blockhain is also proposed. Aiming at the situation that medical accidents are easy to occur in multidisciplinary joint consultation in the medical process, this paper proposes to use threshold signature for joint consultation. Using the security and threshold of threshold signature, treatment can be carried out when the threshold number is reached, and medical data can be uploaded to the consortium blockchain. The security analysis and performance analysis show that the scheme has advantages in safety and performance and is suitable for the medical environment to a certain extent.
Geospatial Assessment of Flood and Drought on the Chure Region of Western Nepal
Authors: Attreya Swagat , Tripathi Shankar , Sharma Puja , Adhikari Yojana 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Flood troubles people of central chure region and its vicinity almost every year. Besides, the area is also becoming susceptible to the drought currently. In that perspective, it is necessary to assess the vulnerability of floods and drought in the chure region. So this research focused on the assessment of flood and drought geospatially in Butwal city which was the major city and experience flood and drought every year. This study mainly records floods, calculates drought, finds their present condition, studies their trend, and determines drought and flood vulnerable areas within Butwal. Climate data, imagery, soil data, and socioeconomic data, and other relevant information were analyzed and extracted past drought conditions through Temperature and precipitation trend analysis and SPEI model. NDVI, NDDI, NDWI were used to find drought vulnerability status, and AHP and MCDA were used to find flood vulnerability. The city faced extreme drought in 2005, 2011, 2012, and 2013. And, Flood of 1970 and 1981 are the major floods. The area was frequently affected by floods in the past but no flood has been recorded after 2017. About 43% of the area was found high to very highly vulnerable to drought and 68% of the land was found vulnerable to extremely vulnerable to flood. So geospatial vulnerability assessment can enhance the planning decision and effectiveness of activities of the preventive measures by the stakeholders.
Chinese Physicians’ Perceptions of Palliative Care Decision-making for Advanced Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Analysis at a Tertiary Hospital in Changsha, China
Authors: Hahne Jessica , Wang Xiaomin , Liu Rui , Zhong Yuqiong , Chen Xin , Liu Xing , Khoshnood Kaveh , Li Xin 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Little previous research has been conducted outside of major cities in China to examine how physicians currently perceive palliative care, and to identify specific goals for training as palliative care access expands. This study explored physicians’ perceptions of palliative care decision-making for advanced cancer patients in Changsha, China.Methods: We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with physicians (n=24) specializing in hematology or oncology at a tertiary hospital. Results: Most physicians viewed palliative care as equivalent to end-of-life care, while a minority considered it possible to integrate palliative care with active treatment. Almost all physicians maintained separate conversations about palliative care with family members and patients, communicating more directly with family members than with patients about palliative care decisions. Physicians described experiencing ethical tension between the desire of family members to protect the patient from knowing they have advanced cancer, and the patient’s “right to decide” about palliative treatment. Physicians varied overall regarding perceptions of the role they should have in palliative care decision-making.Conclusions: As palliative care access expands in China, medical training should encourage earlier integration of palliative care for advanced cancer, address ethical issues faced by physicians communicating about palliative care, and establish guidance on the role of the physician in palliative care decision-making.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Anxiety and Depression Amongst Hospitalised COVID-19 patients in Laquintinie Hospital Douala, Cameroon
Authors: Ngasa Stewart Ndutard , Tchouda Leticia Armelle Sani , Abanda Christabel , Ngasa Neh Chang ,   Eric Wah Sanji1,   Therence Nwana Dingana1, Babila Carlson-Sama 
Published: September 2021

Abstract

Introduction: Studies assessing the mental health of patients with COVID-19 infection remain limited. Disasters and major emergencies, not just COVID-19, undoubtedly lead to greater incidence of mental health problems. Previous studies indicate that the novel Coronavirus disease can cause panic and stress in patients. Our literature search didn’t reveal any previous published data from Cameroon and the Central African sub-region. In order to bridge this gap, we assessed the prevalence and factors associated with depression and anxiety in COVID-19 patients.Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional study in a secondary hospital in the Littoral Region of Cameroon. We recruited hospitalised COVID-19 patients during a 4-month period. We collected data on sociodemographic characteristics. The HADS score was used to assess levels of anxiety and depression. All analysis were done using Stata 14. A P value of <0.05 was used as the cut-off for statistical significance.Results: A total number of 285 patients took part in this study with a mean age of 48.47 years. The prevalence of anxiety in COVID-19 patients was 60.35% while the prevalence of depression was 81.40%. At multivariate logistic regression male gender (OR: 1.89, P=0.04), hypoxaemia (OR: 2.20, P=0.01), presence of COVID-19 complications (OR: 1.61, P= 0.02) and current episode of depression (OR: 4.14, P<0.01) were independently associated with anxiety. Similarly, age > 35 years (OR:2.03, P= 0.02), presence of comorbidity (OR: 1.68, P= 0.01), BMI > = 30kg/m2 (OR: 1.78, P= 0.02), presence of COVID-19 complications (OR: 1.28, P= 0.01) and anxiety (OR: 4.60, P<0.001) were independently associated with depression. Conclusion: Hospitalised patients with COVID-19 experienced high levels of anxiety and depression. Treatment of hospitalised patients with COVID-19 should therefore include psychotherapy and psychiatric support.
A Comparison of Postural Responses in a Virtual and a Real Environment, a Randomised Controlled Study.
Authors: Piette Patrice , Blong Emilie Le , Gilliaux Maxime , Collet Mathilde , Cavagna Romain , Fraudet Bastien , Gallien Philippe 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BackgroundImmersive virtual reality solutions are seeing increasing usage in functional rehabilitation programmes. However, there is no reference that allows us to confirm that these environments present the same characteristics and therefore the same degree of safety and training in postural responses for balance.QuestionThe aim of the study was to compare displacements from centre of gravity (distance covered and surface used) in balance tests, comparing the real situation to an identical virtual situation. Participants 70 healthy subjects aged between 18 and 65 were recruited in two centres. DesignThe study used a one-way repeated-measures design with randomisation of the order in which the two test conditions were performed. Intervention: .The first test condition was "real", taking place in a bedroom of a treatment centre apartment, and the second was virtual, with the room reproduced and seen through a HMD. For each condition, two static tests (left leg, right leg) and two dynamic tests (left and right) were performed. Each test included three attempts. Outcome measuresThe displacement from the centre of gravity was recorded on a force plate.Result69 participants completed all of the tests and were analysed. None of the tests resulted in confirmation that the virtual was equivalent to the real (Two One-Sided Tests for left static, right static, left dynamic, right dynamic; surface respectively p = 0.592, p = 0.151, p = 0.238, p = 0.503; distance respectively p = 1.00, p = 0.91, p = 0.0742, p = 1.00). Furthermore 6 tests of out 8 showed a significant and considerable difference (surface respectively p = 0.00249, p = 0.0664, p = 0.0318, p = 0.00483; distance respectively p = 1.12 x 10-8, p = 5.27 x 10-5, p = 0.153, p = 2.55 x 10-9). ConclusionPostural responses were poorer in the immersive virtual environment, both on the static and dynamic balance tests. The offer of balance rehabilitation in immersive VR raises safety issues and consequently ethical issues that are as yet unresolved. Researchers must test solutions to correct this serious problem. Trial registration: The study is registered at the US National Institutes of Health (ClinicalTrials.gov) NCT04574726
Primary Prophylaxis of Variceal Haemorrhage in Patients with Cirrhosis: An Integrated Pharmacological and Endoscopic Approach.
Authors: Pepe Veronica , Angeli Paolo , Pascoli Marco Di 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: At the present time, in patients with liver cirrhosis and gastroesophageal varices, primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding made with combination therapy with non-selective b-blockers (NSBBs) and endoscopic band ligation (EBL) is not recommended. The aim of this study was to evaluate if patients who develop an increased bleeding risk from varices while on NSBBs regimen benefit, in terms of bleeding and survival, from adding treatment with EBL. Methods: Patients with endoscopic finding of gastroesophageal varices with increased risk of bleeding (increased variceal size and/or development of red signs) during primary prophylaxis with NSBBs, followed at the Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University and General Hospital of Padova, Italy, from 2012 to 2019, were retrospectively evaluated. When an increased bleeding risk of the varices was confirmed, patients maintained the pharmacological therapy alone or underwent also EBL. The primary endpoint of the study was the rate of variceal bleeding, the secondary endpoint was mortality at 30 months. Results: Compared to patients treated only with NSBBs (n=56), in patients treated also with EBL (n=45), the 30‐month probability of variceal bleeding (29.1% vs 5.1%; P =0.036) was significantly reduced, while the probability of survival was similar (59.6% vs. 65.7%; P=0.61). On multivariate analysis, treatment with EBL was found to be a weak protective factor for mortality (HR 0.47, P=0.044). Conclusion: In patients with liver cirrhosis, when varices show endoscopic feature of increased haemorrhagic risk, adding EBL to NSBBs is effective in reducing the probability of first bleeding.