bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Viscous Dissipation and Induced Magnetic Field on an Unsteady Mixed Convective Stagnation Point Flow of a Nonhomogenous Nanofluid
Authors: Aiyashi M. A. , Abo-Dahab S.M. 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
In the study, we investigate the numerical investigation of variable vis-cous dissipation and source of heat or sink in mixed convective stagnation point flow the unsteady non-homogeneous nanofluid under the induced magnetic parameter. Considering similarity conversions, the governing of fundamental boundary of layer non-linear PDEs are transformed to equations of the non-linear differential type that, under appropriate boundary conditions, are numerically solved, and the MATLAB function bvp4c is considered to solve the resulting system. The obtained results are calculated numerically for non-dimensional velocity, temperature, and volume fraction and displayed graphically. Further, numbers of Nusselt and Sher-wood and local Skin of friction have been produced and displayed by graphs. The obtained findings agree with those introduced by others if the magnetic field and viscous dissipation are neglected.
Vitamin D deficiency contributes to the diabetic kidney disease progression via increased ZEB1/ZEB2 expressions
Authors: Souza Cláudia , Deluque Amanda , Oliveira Beatriz , Maciel Ana Lívia , Giovanini Cleonice , Boer Patrícia , de Paula Francisco José , Costa Roberto , Franscecato Heloísa , Almeida Lucas , Coimbra Terezila 
Published: January 2023

Abstract

Background Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains one of the main causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and mortality in diabetic patients worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency (VitDD) is one of the main consequences of different chronic kidney disease (CKD) types and is associated with rapid progression to ESRD. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that lead to this process are poorly understood. The aim of study was to characterize a model of diabetic nephropathy progression in VitDD and the epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) role in these process. MethodsWistar Hannoverrats received a diet with or without VitD before type 1 diabetes (T1D) induction. After this procedure, the rats were accompanied for 12 and 24 weeks after T1D induction and the renal function, structure, cell transdifferentiation markers and zinc finger e-box binding homeobox 1/2 (ZEB1/ZEB2) contribution to kidney damage were evaluated during the DKD progression. Results The results showed increased in glomerular tuft, mesangial and interstitial relative areas and renal function impairment in VitD-deficient diabetic rats compared to diabetic rats that received VitD-containing diet. These alterations can be associated with increased expression EMT markers, ZEB1 gene expression, ZEB2 protein expression and TGF-β1 urinary excretion. Decreased miR-200b expression, an important post-transcriptional regulator of ZEB1 and ZEB2 was also observed. Conclusion Our data demonstrated that VitD deficiency contributes to rapid development and progression of DKD in diabetic rats induced by increased ZEB1/ZEB2 expressions and miR-200b downregulation.
The effects of financial development and technological progress on environmental sustainability: Novel evidence from Asian countries
Authors: Nasreen Samia , Ishtiaq Faryal , Nghiem Xuan-Hoa 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
This research is an endeavor to improve the literature on ICT-financial development-environmental sustainability nexus by conducting an aggregated and disaggregated analysis on the role of financial development and ICT in attaining a sustainable environment. By employing a unique and comprehensive set of financial development and ICT indicators, this study offers an in-depth analysis of the role of financial development, ICT and especially their interactions in maintaining environmental sustainability in 30 Asian economies from 2006 to 2020. Results from two-step system GMM indicate that separately, both financial development and ICT are detrimental but together, their joint effects are beneficial to the environment. Several policy implications and recommendations are made to help policymakers to craft, design and implement appropriate policies to improve environmental quality.
JEL: C33; O33; Q43
Carvedilol as Primary and Secondary Prophylaxis to Prevent Variceal Hemorrhage in Patients With Hepatic Cirrhosis: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Mariadi I Ketut , Daniella Dian , Paulus Ivana Beatrice , Somayana Gde , Sindhughosa Dwijo Anargha 
Published: January 2023

Abstract

Variceal bleeding is a medical emergency with mortality rate of 57%. After the first bleeding episode, the chance of a second bleeding is 70% in the first year. Carvedilol has been shown to have the added benefit of lowering hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) but studies on its effectiveness as prophylaxis showed controversial results. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of carvedilol as primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. A comprehensive research was conducted using electronic databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, CENTRAL dan clinical trial.gov. We included studies from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). There were 17 studies included in the systematic review and 14 studies included in the analysis. As primary prophylaxis, carvedilol was as effective as EVL, (risk ratio [RR] 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37–1.49); p = 0.4) and propranolol (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.27–2.14); p = 0.6). As secondary prophylaxis, carvedilol was more effective than placebo (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.37–0.96); p = 0.03) and propranolol (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.26–0.94); p = 0.03) and as effective as EVL (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.76–1.63); p = 0.60) and non-selective beta-blocker (NSBB) + isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.74–1.42); p = 0.88). There was no difference in side effects between carvedilol versus propranolol and EVL was even better than the NSBB + ISMN group (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.15–0.80); p = 0.01). Carvedilol is as effective and safe as primary prophylaxis for variceal bleeding than propranolol and EVL. As secondary prophylaxis, carvedilol was as effective as EVL and NSBB + ISMN and more effective than placebo and propranolol, with fewer side effects.
Transcriptomic and functional analysis of ANGPTL4 overexpression in pancreatic cancer nominates targets that reverse chemoresistance
Authors: Gordon Emily R. , Wright Carter A. , James Mikayla , Cooper Sara J. 
Published: January 2023

Abstract

Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers based on five-year survival rates. Genes contributing to chemoresistance represent novel therapeutic targets that can improve treatment response. Increased expression of ANGPTL4 in tumors correlates with poor outcomes in pancreatic cancer.
Methods
We used statistical analysis of publicly available gene expression data (TCGA-PAAD) to test whether expression of ANGPTL4and its downstream targets, ITGB4 and APOL1, were correlated with patient survival. We measured the impact of ANGPTL4overexpression in a common pancreatic cancer cell line, MIA PaCa-2 cells, using CRISPRa for overexpression and DsiRNA for knockdown. We characterized global gene expression changes associated with high levels of ANGPTL4 and response to gemcitabine treatment using RNA-sequencing. Gemcitabine dose response curves were calculated on modified cell lines by measuring cell viability with CellTiter-Glo (Promega). Impacts on cell migration were measured using a time course scratch assay.
Results
We show that ANGPTL4 overexpression leads to in vitro resistance to gemcitabine and reduced survival times in patients. Overexpression of ANGPTL4 induces transcriptional signatures of tumor invasion and metastasis, proliferation and differentiation, and inhibition of apoptosis. Analyses revealed an overlapping signature of genes associated with both ANGPTL4activation and gemcitabine response. Increased expression of the genes in this signature in patient PDAC tissues was significantly associated with shorter patient survival. We identified 42 genes that were both co-regulated with ANGPTL4 and were responsive to gemcitabine treatment. ITGB4 and APOL1 were among these genes. Knockdown of either of these genes in cell lines overexpressing ANGPTL4 reversed the observed gemcitabine resistance and inhibited cellular migration associated with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and ANGPTL4 overexpression.
Conclusions
These data suggest that ANGPTL4 promotes EMT and regulates the genes APOL1 and ITGB4. Importantly, we show that inhibition of both targets reverses chemoresistance and decreases migratory potential. Our findings have revealed a novel pathway regulating tumor response to treatment and suggest relevant therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer.
Association of Hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio and risk of sarcopenia: a cross sectional study
Authors: Xi Lijuan , Zhou Jiajie , Xu Peirong , Zhang Yan , Tu Jiayuan , Sun Qiannan , Fang Fang 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
The incidence rate of sarcopenia is high and it will lead to many adverse consequences. It is necessary to explore the influencing factors of sarcopenia and find out its inflammatory indicators.
Objectives
We aimed to explore the association between hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR) and the risk of sarcopenia from the large and diverse National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2006, 2011–2018 population sample.
Methods
The general characteristics, disease related characteristics, diet and exercise characteristics, blood indicators, appendicular lean mass index, the peak isokinetic strength of the knee extensors, gait speed, combined grip strength and appendicular lean mass index extracted from the adult(18-79y) from the NHANES database. t test, two sample Kolmogorove-Smirnov test, Chi-square test, multiple linear regression analyses, binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between HRR and sarcopenia. The cut-off value invented by Budczies et al was used to found the cut-off value for the HRR to sarcopenia.
Results
A total sample of 28,531 participants were included in the study (50.85% males and 49.15% females). The prevance of sarcopenia is 23.87% (43.52% males and 56.48% females) and severe-sarcopenia is 18.13% (53.03% males and 46.97% females). HRR levels were significantly lower in sarcopenic people than non-sarcopenic people, and lower in severe-sarcopenia people than light-sarcopenia people(P < 0.05). HRR was significantly positive associated with appendicular lean mass index (ALMI), gait speed, peak isokinetic, and combined grip strength (P < 0.05). Regression analysis shows that HRR was independently associated with sarcopenia (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
This study first reveal that HRR is an independent risk factor for sarcopenia and the mechanism of HRR to sarcopenia is not clear. It is necessary to further explore the mechanism of HRR to sarcopenia in the future research.
Musculoskeletal pain patterns and association between dizziness symptoms and pain in patients with long term dizziness – a cross- sectional study
Authors: Moen Unni , Knapstad Mari Kalland , Goplen Frederik Kragerud , Nordahl Stein Helge Glad , Berge Jan Erik , Wilhelmsen Kjersti Thulin , Natvig Bård , Magnussen Liv Heide , Meldrum Dara 
Published: January 2023

Abstract

Background
The impact of long-term dizziness is considerable both on the personal level and in society and may lead to self-imposed restrictions in daily activities and social relations due to fear of triggering the symptoms. Musculoskeletal complaints seem to be common in persons with dizziness, but studies addressing these complaints as a widespread occurrence, are scarce. This study aimed to examine the occurrence of widespread pain in patients with long-term dizziness and investigate the associations between pain and dizziness symptoms. Further, to explore whether diagnostic belonging is related to the occurrence of pain.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted in an otorhinolaryngology clinic and included 150 patients with persistent dizziness. The patients were categorized into three groups: episodic vestibular syndromes, chronic vestibular syndromes, and non-vestibular group. The patients completed questionnaires on dizziness symptoms, catastrophic thinking, and musculoskeletal pain when entering the study. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the population, and associations between pain and dizziness were investigated by linear regression.
Results
Pain was reported by 94.5% of the patients. A significantly higher prevalence of pain was reported in all the ten pain sites examined compared to the general population. Number of pain sites and pain intensity were associated with the dizziness severity. Number of pain sites was also associated with dizziness-related handicap, but not with catastrophic thinking. There was no association between pain intensity and dizziness-related handicap or catastrophic thinking. Pain was equally distributed in the diagnostic groups.
Conclusion
Patients with long-term dizziness have a considerably higher prevalence of pain and number of pain sites than the general population. Pain co-exists with dizziness and is associated with dizziness severity. These findings may indicate that pain should be systematically assessed and treated in patients with persisting dizziness.
The design of TXL-CAP study: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter Clinical Trial to assess Tongxinluo Capsule on Coronary Atherosclerotic Vulnerable Plaque
Authors: Yu Huaitao , Ti Yun , Qi Yan , Zhang Meng , Duan Dayue Darrel , Yao Chen , Jia Zhenhua , Zhang Yun , Ni Mei , Bu Peili 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Tongxinluo (TXL) capsules have been widely used in atherosclerosis treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated the TXL can retard the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events. In the present study (TXL-CAP trial), we aim to evaluate the efficacy of TXL on non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) treatment.
Methods
This study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-grouped multicenter clinical study and 220 patients diagnosed with NSTE-ACS will be enrolled. Patients will be randomized 1:1 to receive the TXL or placebo in addition to their standard treatment. The primary end point is the difference in the thickness of the fibrous cap of the target coronary artery plaque evaluated by OCT. The secondary observation indicators included the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), the proportion of patients with improved angina pectoris, Seattle angina pectoris questionnaire score, and serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 β, IL-18, TNF- α).
Conclusion
The results of the TXL-CAP trial will provide clinical data for revealing whether TXL capsules stabilize vulnerable plaques in Chinese NSTE-ACS patients.
Trial registration:
The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on September 10, 2019 (http://www.chictr.org.cn). The registration Number was ChiCTR1900025842.
Sense of coherence in pregnancy: a systematic review of the literature.
Authors: Alcantara Joel , Myers Stephen , Emmanuel Elizabeth , Grace Sandra 
Published: January 2023

Abstract

Background Pregnancy is acknowledged as a time of physiological, social, and psychological challenges that may compromise a pregnant woman’s quality of life. Healthcare advocates have proposed a paradigm shift in maternity services towards a framework that includes the promotion and generation of health such as Antonovsky’s framework of salutogenesis. Central to salutogenesis are general resistance resources (GRRs) (i.e., assets and resources available to an individual) and sense of coherence (SOC) (i.e., a measure of their ability to mobilize their GRRs and manage physical, mental and social stressors). To begin to explore the role of SOC in pregnancy care, we critically analyzed, synthesized and summarized studies with quantitative measures of SOC during pregnancy. Methods A systematic review of the literature was performed using PubMed & Medline, Allied and Complementary Medicine (AMED), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and PsychInfo between 1997 to 2022. Inclusion criteria for review were manuscripts: (1) of peer-reviewed primary investigation reports, (2) measuring SOC among pregnant women and (3) written in the English language. Manuscripts excluded were: (1) qualitative studies, (2) abstracts from conference proceedings and (3) dissertations from a Master or PhD degree. Quality assessment used the NIH National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Study Quality Assessment Tools. Our systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). Results Our systematic review found 49 studies (i.e., prospective (n=29) and cross-sectional (n=17) cohorts) meeting inclusion criteria. Pregnant women (93% of subjects; n=27, 186) completed primarily the SOC-13 instrument along with 67 other patient reported outcomes (PROs) of mental and social health domains. Physical health measures were lacking. Overall, a low SOC score was associated with compromised health outcomes during pregnancy, labor and birth. Cause and effect inferences between measures of SOC and PROs remain largely unexplored. Conclusion The findings of this review are that low SOC is associated with poor prenatal health outcomes. Maternity care should focus on a more comprehensive approach that addresses not only morbidities and risks but also protective and stress resisting factors that promote health such as increasing a pregnant woman’s sense of coherence.
Serum cytokines in second trimester pregnancy and their relationship with preterm births in the Ribeirão Preto and São Luiz cohorts
Authors: Turra Suzana Eggers , Damaso Ênio Luis , Veiga Eduardo Carvalho de Arruda , Cardoso Viviane Cunha , Bettiol Heloisa , Cavalli Ricardo Carvalho 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the association between second trimester plasma cytokine levels in asymptomatic pregnant women and preterm births (PTB) in an attempt to identify a possible predictor of preterm birth.
Methods: Cohort case-control study including women with singleton pregnancies between 20 and 25 weeks and 6 days of gestation from two Brazilian cities. The patients were interviewed and venous blood samples were collected. The participants were again evaluated at birth. A total of 197 women with PTB comprised the case group. The control group was selected among term births (426 patients). Forty-one cytokines were compared between groups.
Results: When only spontaneous PTB were analyzed, GRO, sCD40L and MCP-1 levels were lower in the case group (p < 0.05). Logarithmic transformation was performed for cytokines with discrepant results, which showed increased levels of IL-2 in the group of spontaneous PTB (p < 0.05). In both analyses, the incidence of maternal smoking and of a history of preterm delivery differed significantly between the case and control groups. In multivariate analysis, only serum GRO levels differed between the case and control groups.
CONCLUSION: Lower second trimester serum levels of GRO in asymptomatic women are associated with a larger number of PTB. This finding may reflect a deficient maternal inflammatory response.
Sexual orientation knowledge and attitudes and its association with therapy services satisfaction among LGB Hispanic Puerto Ricans
Authors: Esteban Caleb , Francia-Martínez Margarita , Vázquez-Rivera Miguel , Crespo Frances , Bruno-Ortiz Taysha , Santiago-Ortiz Aquiria , Martínez-Taboas Alfonso 
Published: January 2023

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the difference in therapy satisfaction between LGB and heterosexual individuals, and to identify the association between therapy satisfaction and the perception of knowledge and attitudes of their last therapist among the LGB participants. Through an exploratory design with a comparative group, 125 participants were recruited online by availability. Results indicate that the participants’ sexual orientation has no significant relation on therapy satisfaction. However, there was a significant positive association between satisfaction with therapy and the therapist’s LGB knowledge and positive attitudes. This research highlights the importance for continuous education and curriculum efforts on LGB issues.
Using the integration of human resource management strategies at district level to improve workforce performance: analysis of workplan designs in three African countries
Authors: Martineau Tim , Mansour Wesam , Dieleman Marjolein , Akweongo Patricia , Amon Samuel , Chikaphupha Kingsley , Mubiri Paul , Raven Joanna 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background: There is a worldwide shortage of health workers against WHO recommended staffing levels to achieve Universal Health Coverage. To improve the performance of the existing health workforce a set of integrated human resources (HR) strategies are needed to address the root causes of these shortages. The PERFORM2Scale project uses an action research approach to support district level management teams to develop appropriate workplans to address service delivery and workforce related problems using a set of integrated human resources strategies. This paper provides evidence of the feasibility of supporting managers at district level to design appropriate integrated workplans to address these problems.
Methods: The study used content analysis of problem trees and 43 workplans developed by 28 district health management teams (DHMT) across three countries between 2018-2021 to identify how appropriate basic planning principles and the use of integrated human resource and health systems strategies were used in the design of the workplans developed. Four categories of HR strategies were used for the analysis (availability, direction, competencies, rewards and sanctions) and the relationship between HR and wider health systems strategies was also examined.
Results: About half (49%) of the DHMTs selected service-delivery problems while others selected workforce performance (46%) or general management (5%) problems, yet all workplans addressed health workforce related causes through integrated workplans. Most DHMTs used a combination of strategies for improving direction and competencies. The use of strategies to improve availability and the use of rewards and sanctions was more common amongst DHMTs in Ghana; this may be related to availability of decision-space in these areas. Other planning considerations such as link between problem and strategy, inclusion of gender and use of indicators were evident in the design of the workplans.
Conclusions: The study has demonstrated that, with appropriate support using an action research approach, DHMTs are able to design workplans which include integrated HR strategies. This process will help districts to address workforce and other service delivery problems as well as improving ‘health workforce literacy' of DHMT members which will benefit the country more broadly if and when any of the team members is promoted.
Phytochemical profile of eleven peruvian Mentheae. Isolation of ursolic acid from Clinopodium revolutum (Ruiz &amp; Pavon) Govaerts and analysis of the aqueous infusions
Authors: Serrano Carlos A. , Villena Gretty K. , Rodriguez Eric F. , Calsino Belea , Ludeña Michael , Ccana Gari V. 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
The profile of secondary metabolites in eleven Mentheae (Nepetoideae, Lamiaceae) from Peru by liquid chromatography associated with Orbitrap mass spectrometry, UHPLC-OT-MS is presented. Precursors of and salvianolic acids have been found, particularly rosmarinic acid, as well as a diversity of free and glycosylated flavonoids as main substances, 127 tentatively identified structures. In addition, a method to obtain ursolic acid from Clinopodium revolutum (R. & P.) Govaerts and a quantitative analysis for rosmarinic acid and triterpenic acids in aqueous infusions of these plants are presented.