bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Subset of the periodontal ligament expressed leptin receptor contributes to part of hard tissue forming cells
Authors: Oka Hirotsugu , Ito Shinichirou , Kawakami Mana , Sasaki Hodaka , Abe Shinichi , Matsunaga Satoru , Morita Sumiharu , Noguchi Taku , Kasahara Norio , Tokuyama Akihide , Kasahara Masataka , Katakura Akira , Yajima Yasutomo , Mizoguchi Toshihide 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
The lineage of periodontal ligament (PDL) stem cells contributes to alveolar bone (AB) and cementum formation, which are essential for tooth-jawbone attachment. Leptin receptor (LepR), a skeletal stem cell marker, is expressed in PDL; however, stem cell capacity of LepR+ PDL is unclear. We used a Cre/LoxP-based approach and showed that LepR-cre-labeled cells were specifically detected in the perivascular area around the root apex, and their number increased with age. In the juvenile stage, LepR+ PDL cells differentiated into AB-embedded osteocytes rather than cementocytes, but their contribution to both increased with age. The frequency of LepR+ PDL-derived lineages in hard tissue was less than 20% per total cells at 1-year-old. Similarly, LepR+ PDL differentiated into osteocytes after tooth extraction, but their frequency was less than 9%. Additionally, both LepR+ and LepR− PDL demonstrated spheroid-forming capacity, which is an indicator of stem cell self-renewal potential in vitro. These results indicate that both lineages from LepR+ and LepR− PDL populations contributed to AB and cementum formation. LepR− PDL increased the expression of LepR during spheroid formation, suggesting that the LepR− PDL sits hierarchically upstream of LepR+ PDL. Collectively, the origin of hard tissue-forming cells in the PDL is heterogeneous, some of which express LepR.
Quality cost indicator: Reassessing the effects of health outcomes on healthcare expenditure. A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Veghel W.H.P. van , Boon S. , Klem T.M.A.L. , Weel A.E.A.M. , Bugel JB , Birnie E 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background:
Healthcare expenditure has increased rapidly over the last decades. Despite conceptual differences, healthcare expenditure and health outcomes play a significant role in Cost Effectiveness Analysis (CEA) and Value Based Health Care (VBHC). Better health outcomes can prevent additional costs to treat symptoms, adverse events and/or comorbidities. Therefore a partially inverse relationship between health outcomes and healthcare expenditure can be expected. Because it can be quite difficult to utilize this relationship to one’s benefit we developed a framework to model the relationship and tested it for breast cancer and bariatric surgery.
Methods:
The Quality Cost Indicator is calculated as QCI = 100 – average total costs / (resulting outcome ^2 * 100) and rests on three main measures. (1) Optimal outcome which is accomplished when patients meet all the defined health outcomes which differs per diagnoses/treatment; (2) Resulting outcome, the proportion of patients who accomplish optimal outcomes divided by the total patient population; (3) Average total costs, all costs related to the treatment including costs of AEs and comorbidities. Costs were determined using the Dutch cost price model. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to determine if costs of patients achieving optimal outcome were lower than costs of those who did not.
Results:
For the bariatric surgery population, 60.75% of patients reached optimal outcome excluding health related quality of life (HRQoL) and 60.74% including HRQoL. For breast cancer surgery 86.88% (excluding HRQoL) achieved optimal outcome. In the bariatric population (excluding HRQoL) and the Breast cancer population, patients achieving optimal outcome had significantly lower cost than those who didn’t. With € 8,442.48 vs. € 9,546.89 (p < .001) and €11,565.65 vs. € 16,119.56 (p < .001) respectively. For both populations QCI values were highest in 2020 Q4 as costs were average and optimal outcome was highest.
Conclusions:
The QCI framework is useful for modeling the partially inverse relationship between health outcomes and medical costs in bariatric and breast surgery. Future research should indicate if the QCI framework is applicable to other (non-surgical) treatments. Finally, comparing hospitals using the QCI framework could be helpful for comparing/optimizing health outcomes and costs.
Disentangling the impacts of climate and land-cover changes on distribution of common pheasant Phasianus colchicus along elevational gradients in Iran
Authors: Asgharzadeh Mojtaba , Alesheikh Ali Asghar , Yousefi Masoud 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Climate and land-cover change are critical drivers of avian species range shift. Thus, predicting avian species' response to the land and climate changes and identifying their future suitable habitats can help their conservation planning. The common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) is a species of conservation concern in Iran and is included in the list of Iran’s protected avian species. The species faces multiple threats such as habitat destruction, land-cover change, and overhunting in the country. In this study, we model the potential impacts of these two on the distribution of common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) along elevational gradients in Mazandaran province in Iran. We used Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP) scenarios and the 2015–2020 trend to generate possible future land-cover projections for 2050. As for climate change projections, we used Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios. Next, we applied current and future climate and land-cover projections to investigate how common pheasant’s habitat changes between 2020 and 2050 using Species Distribution Modeling (SDM). Our results show that the species has 6000 km2 suitable habitat; however, between 900 to 1965 km2 of its habitat may be reduced by 2050. Furthermore, we found that the severity of the effects of climate change and land-cover change varies at different altitudes. At low altitudes, the impact of changing land structure is superior. Instead, climate change has a critical role in habitat loss at higher altitudes and imposes a limiting role on the potential range shifts. Finally, this study demonstrates the vital role of land cover and climate change in better understanding the potential alterations in avian species' habitats.
A brief study and one step ahead of plastic sustainability vs. genuine plastic recycling and upcycling including Advantages and/or benefits as well as future opportunities across the Globe
Authors: Haque Azizul 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Plastic recycling is the reprocessing of plastic waste into new and useful products. When this job is performed correctly, can reduce dependence on landfill, conserve resources and protect the environment from plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling is essential because almost all plastics are non-biodegradable and thus build-up in the environment, where it can cause harm. Presently, almost all recycling is performed by re-melting and reforming used plastic into new items; so-called mechanical recycling. In an alternative approach known as feedstock recycling, waste plastic is converted back into its starting chemicals, which can then be reprocessed back into fresh plastic. This whole work demonstrates the Turning Residual / Old plastics into eco-friendly alternatives, Synthetic oil, Gas or Fuel & Nanomaterials and chemical recycling as an environmental win-win situation and reinventing Recycling from rubbish to resources including live experiments/examples.
Novel Pathogenic NPR2 Variants in Short Stature Patients and the Therapeutic Response to rhGH
Authors: Chen Hong , Zhang Suping , Sun Yunteng , Chen Jiao , Yuan Ke , Zhang Ying , Yang Xiaohong , Chen Ruimin 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Objective
A heterozygous loss-of-function mutation in the NPR2 gene causes short stature with non-specific skeletal abnormalities, accounting for approximately 2 ~ 6% of all idiopathic short stature cases. The aim of this study was to analyze and identify pathogenic variants in the NPR2 gene, and to examine the therapeutic response to recombinant growth hormone (rhGH).
Methods
NPR2 was sequenced in three Chinese Han patients with short stature via whole-exome sequencing. In vitro functional experiments, homology modeling, and molecular docking analysis of variants were conducted to investigate putative protein changes and pathogenicity. Three patients received rhGH therapy for two years.
Result
Two NPR2 heterozygous variants were identified: c.1579C > T,p.Leu527Phe in patient 1 and c.2842dupC,p.His948Profs*5 in patient 2. A small gene model was constructed, and transcriptional analysis of the synonymous mutation (c.2643G > A) was performed in patient 3, which revealed the deletion of exon 17 and the premature formation of a stop codon (p.His840Gln*). Functional studies showed that both NPR2 variants, His948Profs*5 and His840Gln*, failed to produce cGMP in the homozygous state. Furthermore, the Leu527Phe variant of NPR2 was almost unresponsive to the stimulatory effect of ATP on CNP-dependent guanylyl cyclase activity. This loss of response to ATP has not been previously reported. The average age of patients at the start of treatment was about 6.5 ± 1.8 years old, and their height increased by 1.59 ± 0.1 SDS after 2 years of treatment.
Conclusion
we report 2 cases of novel pathogenic mutations in the NPR2 gene. We broadened the genotypic spectrum of NPR2 variants in short stature patients and provided insights into rhGH's efficacy.
Modeling Earthquake Data Using ETAS Model to Forecast Aftershock Subsequences Applying Different Parameterizations in Kermanshah Region, Iran
Authors: lafmejani davood kazemi , Shabani Elham 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

In this study, the ETAS model was used to identify the sequence of aftershocks in Kermanshah, west of Iran. We appraise the model's ability to track aftershock sequences based on two main shocks from 2017 and 2018. This evaluation shall cover progress toward the objectives set out in the ETAS model and done focusing on the two main shocks of 2017 and 2018, as well as recommendations for the Seismic maps. The experiments were conducted to analyze the possibility of comparing model results and providing more accurate estimates of aftershock sequences for the Kermanshah region in four selected windows over time. The setting quality of the four windows that were investigated, in this study, by the model theory has been selected in a way to allow the comparison of the formation of aftershock sequences after the main shocks, especially the 2017 earthquakes and 2018 in the Kermanshah region. The results of this research emphasize the importance of recording earthquake events in the approximation of subsequent events and show that the model has a reliable skill in recognizing aftershock sequences, even if the number of main shocks is small. Also, choosing the period for research should be such that it does not interrupt the sequence of aftershocks.
Adsorption modelling and fixed-bed column study on milk processing industry wastewater treatment using chitosan zinc-oxide nano-adsorbent coated sand bed
Authors: Dinesha Bettathavarekere Lingamurthy , Hiregoudar Sharanagouda , Nidoni Udaykumar , Ramappa KotrappaThowdur , Dandekar Anilkumar Tukaram , Ganachari Sharanabasava V. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
The milk processing industry produces a large amount of
effluent that contains a lot of organic contaminants. Effluents, if
improperly disposed of, can have serious environmental and public
health consequences. The goal of this study is to create
chitosan-zinc oxide nano-adsorbent coated sand (CZOCS) for getting
rid of milk processing industry wastewater (MPIW) in a safe way.
The developed adsorbent was characterised, and the presence of a
zinc coating on the sand surface was confirmed. The goal of this
study was to reduce organic contaminants in MPIW. There has been no
evidence of CZOCS being used for industrial wastewater treatment to
date. The effectiveness of the adsorbent and the performance of the
column were examined using column adsorption experiments. The
influence of filtration time and height of the bed on breakthrough
curves was also investigated. Different kinds of kinetic models
have been used to forecast breakthrough curves employing
experimental data. Statistical and error function parameters were
used to choose the best model. Among these models, the Thomas model
was shown to be the best fit. Breakthrough and exhaustion times
were shown to be higher as the bed height increased. The CZOCS has
high reusability and could be used for up to six cycles of organic
pollutant adsorption. Aside from that, novel CZOCS was used to
clean real MPIW, making it one of the most promising
adsorbents.
The CO2 balance of a sawmill
Authors: Bariska Mihály , Pásztory Zoltán 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

For a Hungarian saw-mill, the CO2gas mass has been estimated which has been generated by its construction and continuous operation. As measuring tool for the extent of CO2pollution, the forest area was assessed which would absorb the exhaust gases emitted by the mill during its existence. The mill had been erected on an area of 6 hectare [ha], and has been in operation for 90 years. The mass of CO2released into the air during this period was calculated to be roughly 105´340 t, while the gas mass still to be set free during a proposed rehabilitation time of 25 years was calculated to be a further 28´725 t, totalling 134´100 t CO2for the 115-year period of interest. In order to remove this mass of gas from the atmosphere during the suggested 25 years, an afforested area of roughly 1’341 ha was needed. After 25 years rehabilitation time, the forest area could be reduced to 281 ha which would cater for the mill´s future yearly CO2output. The redundant 1´160 ha may be sold to cover the expenses spent on the remedial measures. Financially, it might bring a light profit if it was realized as a joint venture by the mill, the host-community and a trust. The insight gained from this example is, however, rather disturbing.
SSDP Model with Inflow Clustering for Hydropower System Operation
Authors: Wu Xinyu , Yin Shuai , Cheng Chuntian , Chen Zhiyong , Su Huaying 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Sampling stochastic dynamic programming (SSDP), which considers the uncertainty of streamflow, is a popular and useful method for solving release decisions of reservoirs. It is easy to implement the long-term operation for cascaded hydropower stations with poor inflow prediction ability. Furthermore, SSDP describes the empirical distribution by inflow scenarios considering the temporal and spatial structure of the streamflow processes instead of dividing the inflow into discrete representative values in stochastic dynamic programming (SDP). However, the computation time of the procedure will increase exponentially with the growth of reservoirs and inflow scenarios. Thus, the clustering method is employed to reduce the inflow scenarios in order to improve the efficiency and operability of SSDP in practical applications. The calculation results and the improvement on computation time consumption are analyzed with different cluster numbers in clustering algorithm. The principle of how to select the least inflow scenarios to represent all inflow sequences has also been proposed. Results show that the SSDP model with clustered inflows scenarios can significantly reduce the computation time. The least inflow scenarios selected by clustering algorithm can represent the empirical distribution of 56 streamflow scenarios without obviously decreasing energy and exacerbating the shortage of firm power in results in this study.
Adaptation, Implementation, and Evaluation of the HEARTS Technical Package in Primary Health Care Settings in Jordan to Improve the Management of Hypertension
Authors: Nsour Mohannad Al , Khader Yousef , Al-Hadeethi Omar , Kufoof Lara 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
The majority of patients with hypertension in Jordan have uncontrolled blood pressure. This study aimed to adapt and implement the HEARTS technical package in health care centers in Jordan and evaluate its effectiveness on hypertension management and control. The HEARTS protocol was adapted and implemented in six health centers followed by training of the healthcare staff on the adapted guidelines. Patients above 18 years old who attended health centers during the study period were recruited consecutively. The blood pressure of 852 patients was monitored over 4 months, using an individual patient treatment card. At the baseline visit, the proportion of patients with uncontrolled blood pressure was 71.5%. After 4 months of the implementation of the HEARTS protocol, the proportion of patients with uncontrolled blood pressure decreased to 29.1%. Of all studied characteristics, age was the only significant predictor of achieving blood pressure control. Patients aged ≤ 50 had a higher rate of controlled blood pressure readings after 4 months of implementation of the HEARTS protocol compared to patients older than 60 years (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.07, 3.67; P-value = 0.028). In conclusion, the implementation of the HEARTS technical package has successfully achieved better control of the blood pressure of the enrolled patients after 4 months of implementation. To achieve better control of hypertension in the general population, scaling up HEARTS technical package is strongly recommended to integrate evidence-based strategies for hypertension control into routine care.
Implementing digital devices to increase mobility training for people receiving inpatient rehabilitation: protocol for a feasibility hybrid type II randomised controlled trial
Authors: Aravind Nisha , Treacy Daniel , Chagpar Sakina , Harvey Lisa A , Glinsky Joanna V , Sherrington Catherine , Hassett Leanne M 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
People with mobility limitations can benefit from rehabilitation programs incorporating intensive, repetitive, and task-specific exercises using digital devices such as virtual reality gaming systems, tablet and smartphone applications, and wearable devices. The Activity and MObility UsiNg Technology (AMOUNT) rehabilitation trial (n = 300) showed improvements in mobility in people using these types of digital devices in addition to their usual rehabilitation care when the intervention was provided by an additional study-funded physiotherapist. However, it is not clear if this intervention can be implemented by hospital physiotherapists with a usual clinical load. The AMOUNT Implementation trial aims to explore the feasibility of conducting a large-scale implementation trial.
Methods
A pragmatic, assessor blinded, feasibility hybrid type II randomised controlled trial will be undertaken at a public hospital in Australia. There will be two phases. Phase I (or the Implementation Phase) will involve implementing the digital devices into physiotherapy practice. Physiotherapists from the rehabilitation ward will receive a multifaceted implementation strategy guided by the Capabilities, Opportunities, Motivation-Behaviour (COM-B) theoretical model. This implementation strategy consists of identifying and training a clinical champion; providing digital devices and changing the physical structure of the work space; providing education and training in use of devices; facilitating use of the digital devices through clinical reasoning sessions and journal clubs; auditing the recording of exercise dosage and providing feedback to the physiotherapists. Phase II (or the Trial Phase) will involve randomising 30 eligible inpatients from the same ward into either usual care or usual care plus an additional 30 minutes or more of exercises using digital devices. This intervention will be provided by the physiotherapists who took part in the implementation phase. We will collect data on feasibility, implementation, and patient-level clinical outcomes. The three primary outcome measures are: the extent to which physiotherapists document the dosage of exercises provided to participants; ability to recruit participants; and fidelity to the protocol of using digital devices to prescribe exercises.
Discussion
This feasibility study will provide important information to guide the planning and conduct of a future large-scale implementation trial.
Trial registration
: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry; ACTRN12621000938808; registered 19/07/2021.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number, clinical characteristics, surgical types and anatomical outcome of patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment during and after COVID-19 lockdown in Thailand
Authors: Somboonthanakij Sudawadee , Chanwimol Karntida , Jiaranaisilawong Prangkhwan 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
The literature suggests that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) treatment. We determined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number, clinical characteristics, type of surgical procedure, and anatomical outcome of primary RRD during and after lockdown compared with those parameters in the same periods in the previous year.
Methods
In Thailand, the first lockdown was from 3 April to 30 June 2020 (89 days). We evaluated data from an equal number of days in four periods. The medical records of patients with primary RRD who underwent retinal surgery at Mettapracharak Hospital during and after the first lockdown in 2020 and the corresponding period in 2019 were reviewed. The following data were analyzed: age, sex, laterality, lens status, symptom duration, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), macular status, number of quadrants detached, type of surgical procedure, and outcome.
Results
A total of 455 patients (455 eyes) underwent surgery for primary RRD. A total of 107 patients were treated during lockdown, 106 patients after lockdown, whereas 117 patients and 125 patients were treated in identical periods in the previous year, respectively. A decrease of 8.5% of RRD cases during lockdown and of 15.2% of RRD cases post-lockdown compared with those in the equivalent periods in the previous year were documented. No significant differences were found with respect to demographic features, clinical characteristics, type of surgical procedure, or the anatomical outcome of RRD patients among all time periods. However, a significantly lower prevalence of right-eye involvement and shorter waiting time for surgery after lockdown compared with those in the corresponding periods in 2019 were documented. The overall prevalence of success after a single surgical procedure was 85.3%.
Conclusions
We revealed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the reduction in the number of surgical procedures for primary RRD during and after lockdown. Our findings could aid redefinition of a strategic plan for RRD management after the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided.
Trial registration:
COA014/2564; 28 October 2021