bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic fracture of a partially permeable crack in a functionally graded one-dimensional hexagonal piezoelectric quasicrystal under a time-harmonic elastic SH-wave
Authors: Yang Juan , Xu Yan , Ding Shenghu , Li Xing
Published: January 2023

The dynamic fracture of a crack in a functionally graded one-dimensional (1D) hexagonal piezoelectric quasicrystals (PEQCs) subjected to a time-harmonic elastic SH-wave is studied by using integral transform technique and Copson method. It is assumed that the crack surface is a partially permeable boundary condition and the material properties vary continuously as an exponential function. With the help of the Fourier transform, the boundary value problem of partial differential equation describing fracture problem is formulated to three pairs of dual integral equations, which are numerically solved by Copson method. Explicit expressions for the electroelastic field including phonon and phason stresses and electric field on the crack face are determined. The dynamic intensity factors of the electroelastic field are obtained in closed form, and some special cases of obtained results are discussed. On the basis of theoretical analysis and numerical simulation of the established models, numerical analysis was then conducted to discuss crack length, gradient parameter, electric boundary condition, electric loading, incident angle, amplitude, and wave number on the fracture characteristics of material. The research of this paper will provide a theoretical basis for nondestructive testing, optimal design, and reliability analysis of materials and will enrich the research content of fracture mechanics of multi-field coupling materials.
Efficacy, Feasibility, and Acceptability of In-Home Stroke Education for Stroke Survivors
Authors: Blenden Gabrielle , Somerville Emily , Stark Susan
Published: January 2023

Barriers to learning after a stroke may prevent stroke survivors from acquiring helpful information regarding stroke prevention and preparedness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, feasibility, and acceptability of a novel in-home stroke education program for survivors in the acute phase following a stroke. Study participants completed 4 in-home education sessions about stroke prevention and preparedness following their discharge home from inpatient rehabilitation. Sessions were designed to be completed within an 8-week period. Sessions were presented with evidence-based teaching methods and could be tailored to individual needs. Participants completed short quizzes before and after each education session to measure knowledge attainment. Forty-nine participants were included in this study. On average, the program was completed in 10 weeks, or 69.5 days (SD = 29.6), and visits lasted 66.26 minutes; 81.5% of participants completed Visit 1, 77.5% completed Visit 2, and 73.5% completed Visits 3 and 4. Statistically significant changes from pretest-to-posttest scores were found for all races and genders and for ages 50 to 79. There was no significant change in pretest-to-posttest scores for participants over age 80 (n = 3). Results show that delivering a stroke education program can be accomplished, on an expanded timeline. The program was effective in increasing stroke knowledge for participants recently discharged from inpatient rehabilitation following a stroke.
Native Whole Blood (TRUE-NATEM) and Recalcified Citrated Blood (NATEM) Reference Value Validation with ROTEM Delta
Authors: Yoon Uzung
Published: January 2023

Background: Thromboelastography is a viscoelastic test of whole blood hemostasis. Currently, no reference value exists for native whole blood and recalcified citrated blood without activators. The aim of this study was to compare the results of ROTEM® tests using fresh native blood without decalcification “TRUE-NATEM” with those using decalcified citrated blood “NATEM” and provide reference values for each. Methods: Inclusion criteria were healthy adult volunteers (18–65 years). Exclusion criteria were any medical condition or medication affecting coagulation. Native whole blood testing was defined as “TRUE-NATEM-test.” For recalcified citrated blood testing, the NATEM function was used on ROTEM®. Result: The reference value for TRUE-NATEM was CT: 872-1595s, A10: 14-34 mm, A20: 26-48 mm, CFT: 314-839s, MCF: 34-55 mm, and alpha angle: 17-40°. The reference value for NATEM was CT: 757-1327s, A10: 19-43 mm, A20: 33-55 mm, CFT: 219-615s, MCF: 37-61 mm, alpha angle: 24-51°, and ML: 0-3%. When comparing the reference value of NATEM to TRUE-NATEM, the CT and CFT values are decreased and the MCF and alpha angle are increased. The recalcification process of citrated blood in NATEM shows significant activation of coagulation. Female healthy volunteers had enhanced coagulation when activators were used. Age-related statistical difference was seen when activators were used. Ethnicity did not show any difference on the ROTEM values. Conclusion: We determined the reference value for native whole blood and recalcified whole blood using ROTEM®. A significant discrepancy in native whole blood and recalcified citrated blood coagulation was found. Our study underlines the importance of native whole blood as the gold standard reference value in coagulation.
Fabrication and compressive performance of novel lightweight C/SiC honeycomb for ultrahigh stability structures
Authors: Zhang Zhongwei , Li Weijie , Yang Yuping , Wu Hao
Published: January 2023

As for high resolution satellite application field, novel C/SiC honeycomb sandwich structure is the first to propose and develop on account of such many attractive properties as excellent ultrahigh dimensional stability in thermal and moisture coupling environment, lightweight and high load-bearing. Three types of C/SiC honeycomb sandwich structures were fabricated for the first time as opto-mechanical structure in satellite. The innovative interlayer-crosslinking method to weave the continuous carbon fiber fabric of honeycomb core was proposed. The compressive properties of novel C/SiC honeycomb sandwich structures were investigated. Meanwhile, the damage mechanism for sandwich structures were analyzed by non-destructive testing. The results showed that the innovative fabrication processing possessed the capability to prepare high quality C/SiC honeycomb, which was shown from the volume and distribution of pores in the X-ray tomography. The compression modulus and strength of the C/SiC honeycomb reached 927 MPa and 10.76 MPa, and showed better rigidity and higher strength compared with classical honeycombs. Two main types of cracks wall were found in the C/SiC honeycomb, i.e., the horizontal ones in the wall with t thickness and the inclined ones in the wall with 2 t thickness. The outstanding compressive performance was attributed to the high mechanical property of ceramic-matrix composite with fiber pull-out mechanism. The exceptional lightweight capacity was inherited from the low bulk density of honeycomb structure ranged from 0.08 g/cm3 to 0.15 g/cm3. This study can help for the development of lightweight materials for opto-mechanical structure in aerospace optical remote sensing technology.
Impacts of COVID-19 on Neuropsychomotor Development From the Perspective of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in a Case Series of Children Aged 4 to 24 Months Assessed in Land and Aquatic Settings
Authors: Fernandes Lucas Deborah , Souza Stephany Ferreira de , Carvalho Beatriz Komar de , Biernaski Jéssica , Borato Mariane , Mélo Tainá Ribas , Araujo Luize Bueno , Israel e Vera Lúcia
Published: January 2023

Mitigation measures the pandemic caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can change neuropsychomotor development (NPMD), diminishing adaptation, learning, and physical and cognitive development skills. Biopsychosocial screening in this scenario requires specific physical therapy assessment for each intervention setting, with validated scales. Hence, the objective of this study was to analyze the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on NPMD based on a case series in 4-to-24-month-old children assessed on land and in water. Case series descriptive study, based on physical therapy assessments with the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS), Developmental Screening Test (Denver II), and Adaptation of the Aquatic Functional Assessment Scale for Babies (AFAS-BABY©). AIMS classified 8 children as typical NPMD and 5 as suspect NPMD, while Denver II classified 10 children as typical NPMD, 3 as questionable NPMD, and 2 as delayed NPMD. AFAS-BABY© created a qualitative profile, relating it to the land assessments. Thus, the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on NPMD were analyzed based on a case series in 4-to-24-month-old children assessed on land and in water.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on Extended-Spectrum β-lactamases Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in Nepal
Authors: Shyaula Manita , Khadka Christina , Dawadi Prabin , Banjara Megha Raj
Published: January 2023

Objective:

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pool estimates of extended-spectrum β-lactamases producing K. pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) and study their drug resistance profile by evaluating the studies from Nepal.

Methods:

A literature search was carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar, and NepJOL to screen all articles on ESBL-KP published between 2011 and 2021 from Nepal. This review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Relevant data were extracted, and R language 4.2.0 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The pooled prevalence of K. pneumoniae was 5%, while the pooled prevalence of ESBL and multidrug resistance (MDR) in K. pneumoniae were 23% and 55%, respectively. Imipenem was the drug of choice (in vitro) against ESBL-KP infection.

Conclusion:

Our analyses showed a high prevalence of ESBL-KP and their high resistance toward commonly used drugs. This study highlights the need for the development of new antibiotics for the management of ESBL-KP infections.
Antiviral Potential of Melissa officinalis L.: A Literature Review
Authors: Behzadi Amirhossein , imani Sadegh , Deravi Niloofar , Mohammad Taheri Zahra , mohammadian fatemeh , moraveji zahra , Shavysi Sepideh , Mostafaloo Motahareh , Soleimani Hadidi Fateme , Nanbakhsh Sepehr , Olangian-Tehrani Sepehr , Marabi Mohammad Hesam , behshood Parisa , Poudineh Mohadeseh , Kheirandish Ali , Keylani Kimia , Behfarnia Pooya
Published: January 2023

The use of synthetic drugs has increased in recent years; however, herbal medicine is yet more trusted among a huge population worldwide; This could be due to minimal side effects, affordable prices, and traditional beliefs. Lemongrass ( Melissa officinalis) has been widely used for reducing stress and anxiety, increasing appetite and sleep, reducing pain, healing wounds, and treating poisonous insect bites and bee stings for a long time. Today, research has shown that this plant can also fight viruses including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) through various mechanisms such as inhibiting HSV-1 from binding to host cell, inhibiting HSV-1 replication during the post-adsorption or inhibiting main protease and spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, furthermore, be effective in treating related diseases. This Review investigated the antiviral properties of Melissa officinalis and its effect on viral diseases. More in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to determine Melissa officinaliss underlying mechanism, and more randomized controlled trials should be done to identify its effect in humans. Also, due to the usefulness and lack of side effects, it can be used more as a complementary medicine.
Collective case formulation in situations of violent radicalization: A critical perspective in training
Authors: Johnson-Lafleur Janique , Zoldan Yann , Frounfelker Rochelle L. , Rousseau Cécile
Published: January 2023

Case formulation is used in clinical training to weave together theoretical perspectives and support a shared plan of action. Although a cornerstone of clinical practice, critical social theorists have highlighted the risks of depoliticizing political struggles and of reifying and fixing subjects when using psychopathology and case formulation to address situations of injustice. In the field of violent radicalization, this risk is increased by the extreme affects evoked by terror in practitioners and in societies. This article explores the challenges of training clinicians in the field of violent radicalization. It does so by analyzing a Community of Practice (CoP) that was developed to support practitioners involved in this domain of practice in Quebec, Canada. Four focus groups with CoP participants and participant observation of nine CoP meetings were conducted. Thematic and narrative analyses were used to explore the training potential of the CoP and to identify the discursive processes and group dynamics associated with this modality. Results indicate that the diversity of professional perspectives and social positionalities in the group plays a central role in helping participants become aware of their biases and in developing more complex understandings of cases and of their social embedding. Results also suggest that the collective holding of risk is key to preserve practitioners’ investment in patients involved with violent radicalization. The sensitive issue of partnership between health and social services and security agencies is also addressed. Results suggest that CoPs with strong leadership allow for experiential training to enhance clinical and critical thinking.
Experimental study on the flame merging and ceiling impingement behavior of transversely located double fire sources in an urban utility tunnel
Authors: Li Linjie , Zhang Wuchao , Gao Zihe , Wei Liangwen
Published: January 2023

The investigation of the fire characteristics and propagation behaviour in the urban utility tunnel is of great practical importance, especially for the conditions with double fire sources. In this work, a 1/8th scaled urban utility tunnel model was built to conduct the experiments to characterize the flame merging and ceiling impingement behaviour of transversely located double fire sources. Two rectangular fire sources with the same dimension were used, and their heat release rate (HRR) and fire source spacings were varied to consider the typical scenarios. Results show that for the smaller HRR, the tunnel ceiling and sidewalls have little influence on the flame merging of double fire sources. With the increase of HRR, the flame gradually impinges on the tunnel ceiling and forms a stable ceiling jet flame extension, and the ceiling and sidewalls of the tunnel can promote the merging of the flames of the double fire sources. Besides, with the increase of the fire source spacings, the flame merging probability P m can be divided into three stages, that is, (i) complete merging stage, (ii) intermittent merging stage and (iii) complete separation stage. On this basis, the predicting relation of P m was obtained by using the piecewise function.
New entrants for attractions network evolution
Authors: Vieira Daniel P , Júnior Edgar R , de Lacerda Rangel Gabriel
Published: January 2023

Social network analysis has been widely used in tourism studies. Few studies, however, adopted the tourist perspective as a source of analysis or analyze how interactions in the network evolve. The present work analyzes the evolution of the tourist attractions network. Social network analysis was used as analysis technique to map the relationships between tourist attractions in a Brazilian destination based on user-generated content collected from the TripAdvisor website. Results confirm the perspective that density is positively associated with destination development and resilience to economic turmoil. Despite network stability, one can observe network evolution from the entry of new actors. The findings indicate different strategies for entering the network and confirm the perspective that the network evolves in a non-linear way.
The impact of formation and diversity on student team conflict
Authors: Maguire Diana , Keceli Yavuz
Published: January 2023

Instructors of college level business courses utilize group assignments to stress the importance of collaborative work in professional organizations for students. How instructors determine team formation, whether assigning students to groups or allowing students to form their own groups, could impact the effectiveness of the group regarding their cohesiveness, conflict, or social loafing. Best practices suggest that instructors strategically assign students to teams to maximize the diversity of the members. However, could the diversity of group members contribute to conflict amongst members? Could the formation method contribute to the members’ functioning as a team or group? The research questions in the study are: To what degree does team formation method impact (1) members’ conflict; (2) members’ cohesiveness; (3) members’ social loafing; and (4) members’ functioning as a team or group? Over 2 years, simultaneous sections of the same management course utilized different team formation procedures. Each year in one section, the instructor designed teams to maximize diversity of members. In the other course section, students freely formed their own teams. The findings suggest that instructor-designed diverse teams did not increase member conflict. Also, student-selected teams did not improve team cohesiveness. However, instructor-designed diverse teams did impact social loafing and the members’ functioning as a team.
Cross-sparse representation based on dispersion dictionary for ultrasonic guided wave to messenger cable damage detection in cladding zone
Authors: Zhou Jianxi , Lin Jinfan , Hong Xiaobin , Yang Dingmin
Published: January 2023

The damage detection of messenger cable is an important guarantee to ensure the safety of electrified railways. The traditional nondestructive testing methods have difficulty in accurately detecting the damage of messenger cable in cladding zone. In this paper, a novel cross-sparse representation (CSR) method based on dispersion dictionary for ultrasonic guided wave (UGW) is proposed for the outer stranded wire of messenger cable in cladding zone. Firstly, the dispersion curves of UGW in multilayer spiral structure are solved by semi-analytical finite element method, to select an appropriate excitation signal. Secondly, the stationary phase approximation method is used to construct dispersion dictionary according to the dispersion curve which can characterize the modes and propagation distance of UGWs, and the CSR is proposed to separate and identify the damage signal. Thirdly, the simulation models of different damages in the outer stranded wire of messenger cable in the cladding zone are established to analyze the correlation between the damage rate and damage index in the cross-sections. Finally, the damage recognition effect based on CSR is analyzed and compared by experiments. The experimental results show that compared with the sparse representation (SR) method using traditional dictionary, the proposed method can improve the average accuracy of damage signal recognition from about 20% to 99.4% within a wide threshold range.
EHealth for Sexual Assault: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Hardeberg Bach Maria , Ahrens Courtney , Olff Miranda , Armour Cherie , Krogh Sascha Strauss , Hansen Maj
Published: January 2023

Providing efficient psychosocial support for survivors of sexual assault is of critical societal importance. Around the globe, technology-based solutions (eHealth) are increasingly being used to accomplish this task, especially following COVID-19. Despite increased importance and reliance on eHealth for sexual assault, minimal efforts have been made to systematically synthesize research in this area. The present study therefore sought to synthesize what is known about eHealth targeting sexual assault survivors’ psychosocial needs using a systematic scoping review methodology. To this end, five databases (CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Scopus) were systematically searched for studies published from 2010 onwards using terms such as “sexual assault”, “eHealth”, “digital health”, “telehealth”, and variations thereof. Of the 6,491 records screened for eligibility, 85 studies were included in the review. We included empirical studies from all countries pertaining to eHealth for sexual assault for survivors 13 years or older. Many innovative eHealth applications for sexual assault exist today, and the included studies suggested that survivors generally experience eHealth positively and seem to benefit from it. Nevertheless, much more clinical and empirical work is needed to ensure accessible and effective solutions for all.
High DCR and Better Survival in Patients with Advanced or Metastatic Gastric Cancer Receiving Anti-Angiogenic TKI plus Chemotherapy: A Real-World Study
Authors: Nie Caiyun , Lv Huifang , Chen Beibei , Xu Weifeng , Wang Jianzheng , Wang Saiqi , Liu Yingjun , He Yunduan , Zhao Jing , Chen Xiaobing
Published: January 2023

Objectives: This study was carried out to assess the efficacy and drug toxicity of anti-angiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) plus chemotherapy as second-line or above therapeutic regime in advanced or metastatic gastric cancer patients. Methods: From November 2017 to April 2020, advanced or metastatic gastric cancer patients who have failed from prior treatment and received apatinib combined with irinotecan or irinotecan treatment were analyzed. The primary observed indicator was progression-free survival (PFS). Objective: response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and drug toxicity were also evaluated. Results: 26 patients received apatinib combined with irinotecan and 29 patients received irinotecan. The ORR in the combination therapy and monotherapy population was 26.9% and 17.2%, respectively. The DCR in the apatinib combined with irinotecan group was higher than in irinotecan monotherapy population (80.8% vs 55.2%, P = .043). Median PFS was 4.2 months in the combination group and 3.3 months in the monotherapy group ( P = .020). Median OS was 8.0 months in the combination group and 5.9 months in the monotherapy group ( P = .048). Except for ECOG PS 2, PFS and OS were generally consistent across subgroups by sex, age, number of metastatic sites and primary tumor site. The incidence of Grade 3–4 adverse events in combination and monotherapy group was 23.1% and 20.7%, respectively. In apatinib combined with irinotecan group, adverse events that were attributed to apatinib were secondary hypertension (in seven patients, 26.9%), hand-foot syndrome (5,19.2%), and proteinuria (5, 19.2%). Univariate analysis demonstrated that secondary hypertension was considered to be a favorable factor ( P = .040) for longer OS in combination therapy group. Conclusions: Compared with chemotherapy alone, anti-angiogenic TKI plus chemotherapy showed better PFS, OS and DCR in advanced or metastatic gastric cancer as second-line or above therapy, with a tolerable and manageable safety profile.
The Farsi version of meaning of life in Iranian patients with cancer: A psychometric study
Authors: Sharif Nia Hamid , She Long , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan , Hejazi Sima , Kohestani Daniyal , Hamidi Sajad
Published: January 2023

Background

Having meaning in life is a protective factor for psychological well-being. Accurate assessment of this construct needs a valid and reliable tool.

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Farsi version of the meaning of life questionnaire in patients with cancer.

Method

In this cross-sectional study, after translating the questionnaire to Farsi, in a sample of 212 patients with cancer, feasibility, content and convergent validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, internal consistency, stability, and responsiveness were evaluated.

Results

The results show that the content validity ratio of all ten items was greater than 0.49. Also, the modified Kappa coefficient of each item was greater than 0.6. The maximum likelihood exploratory factor analysis extracted one factor, which explains 76.13% of the total variance of the sample. Item nine was removed. The confirmatory factor analysis results show that the one-factor model had good fit indices. The Cronbach's alpha, McDonald's omega, composite reliability, MaxR, and intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.96, 0.96, 0.96, 0.96, and 0.98, respectively. The questionnaires had responsiveness and its response time was 3 s.

Conclusion and policy summary

The nine-item Farsi version of the meaning of life questionnaire has good validity and reliability and responsiveness.
Perceptions of stigma among pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Thailand, and the links to delays in accessing healthcare
Authors: Chaychoowong Kampanart , Watson Roger , Barrett David I
Published: January 2023

Background

Delay in seeking care increases the morbidity and mortality in tuberculosis (TB) patients and leads to increased likelihood of transmission within the community. Stigmatisation is one of the influencing factors causing delay in accessing healthcare when experiencing symptoms of TB.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between TB stigmatisation and patient delay among pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients.

Methods

A mixed methods study was undertaken among 300 randomly sampled participants who completed questionnaire surveys, supplemented by 25 in-depth interviews with purposively-sampled participants identified as delaying access to healthcare.

Results

Participants reporting higher perceived levels of TB stigmatisation demonstrated a longer duration of patient delay ( p < 0.001). Qualitative data reinforced the view that perceptions of TB as being a disease carrying with it a stigma contributed to a delay in seeking healthcare. This was also exacerbated in patients with HIV-positive. Given that HIV-positive status is still subject to stigma in some parts of society, patients demonstrated additional reluctance to seek out healthcare if they were known to be HIV-positive whilst also experiencing symptoms of TB.

Discussion

The study highlights that accurate and objective information about TB is required to reduce societal stigmatisation related to the disease, thereby reducing the reluctance of patients to access healthcare.
Antimycic Acid and its Acetyl Derivative from Deep-sea-derived Alcanivorax sp. SHA4 with Neuroprotective Properties
Authors: Chen Shuang , Zhang Da-shan , Wang Jin-hui
Published: January 2023

Chemical investigation of secondary metabolites of the deep-sea-derived Alcanivorax sp. SHA4 identified a new compound 1 which was antimycic acid (2)'s acetyl derivative, and 11 known compounds (2-12). Their structures were elucidated by extensive nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry spectroscopic analyses, and the absolute configuration of compound 1 was determined by Marfey's method. Bioactivity assays indicated that compounds 1 and 2 exhibited significant neuroprotective properties against glutamate-induced PC12 cell death in 0.02-0.31 μM.
An investigation of a self-assembled cell-extracellular complex and its potentials in improving wound healing
Authors: Ye Danyan , Sun Yaowen , Yang Lujun , Su Jing
Published: January 2023

Background:

To maintain and enhance the wound healing effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a scaffold for hosting MSCs is needed, which ought to be completely biocompatible, durable, producible, and of human source.

Objective:

To build a cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) complex assembled by human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HuMSCs) and to investigate its clinical potentials in promoting wound healing.

Method:

HuMSCs were isolated and expanded. When the cells of third passage reached confluency, ascorbic acid was added to stimulate the cells to deposit ECM where the cells grew in. Four weeks later, a cells-loaded ECM sheet was formed. The cell-ECM complex was observed under the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and subjected to histological studies. The supernatants were collected and the cell-ECM complex was harvested at different time points and processed for enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) and mRNA analysis. The in vivo experiments were performed by means of implanting the cell-ECM complex on the mice back for up to 6 months and the specimens were collected for histological studies.

Results:

After 4 weeks of cultivation with ascorbic stimulation, a sheet was formed which is mainly composed with HuMSCs, collagen and hyaluronic acid. The cell-ECM complex can sustain to certain tensile force. The mRNA and protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor-α (VEGF-α), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were remarkably increased compared to monolayer-cultured cells. The implanted cell-ECM complex on mice was still noticeable with host cells infiltration and vascularization on 6 months.

Conclusion:

Our studies suggested that HuMSCs can be multi-cultivated through adding ascorbic stimulation and ECM containing collagen and hyaluronic acid were enriched around the cells which self-assembly formed a cell-ECM complex. Cell-ECM complex can improve growth factors secretion remarkably which means it may promote wound healing by paracrine.
Graphene/hydroxyapatite coating deposit on titanium alloys for implant application
Authors: ·Baheti Wufanbieke , Lv ShangYi , Mila  , Ma Lisha , ·Amantai Dumanbieke , Sun Hao , He HuiYu
Published: January 2023

Titanium (Ti) implants are widely used in medicine. Meanwhile, surface modification of Ti can strengthen the osseointegration of implants. In this study, we modified Ti implant surfaces, which was coated with GO, HA, HA-2wt%GO and HA-5wt%GO via electrophoresis deposition, to investigate their mechanisms and biological activity. Uncoated Ti was used as the control. Further, we examined the biological behavior and osteogenic performance of mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) cultured on coatings in vitro. We found that the HA-GO nanocomposite coating improved the roughness and hydrophilicity of the Ti surface. Compared with the uncoated Ti or Ti modified by HA or GO alone, cell adhesion and diffusion were enhanced on HA-GO-modified Ti surfaces. In addition, the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in vitro were significantly improved on HA-GO-modified surfaces, whereas osteogenesis-related gene expression and alkaline phosphatase activity were slightly enhanced. Furthermore, we noted that bone regeneration was improved in the HA-2wt%GO group in vivo. Thus, the HA-2wt%GO nanocomposite coating might have potential applications in the field of dental implants.
Assessing the Direct and Moderating Effect of COVID-19 on the Performance of the Banking Sector in the MENA Region
Authors: EL-Chaarani Hani , Skaf Yahya , Roberto Fabiana , Hamdan Allam , Binsaddig Ruaa Omar
Published: January 2023

This article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the financial performance, credit risk and capital adequacy of the banks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with the determinants of the banks’ financial performance before and during the pandemic investigated. The data were collected from the Orbis Bank Focus database and banks’ annual financial reports, with descriptive statistics, t-tests and multiple regressions employed to analyse the data. The results revealed that the pandemic negatively and significantly affected the financial performance of the banks, increasing the credit risk, but that it had no significant impact on capital adequacy. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the managerial efficiency, the bank’s size and the gross domestic product had a significant positive impact on the bank’s financial performance in both periods, while in contrast, the credit risk had a negative and significant impact on the banks’ financial performance. Finally, the liquidity risk, capital adequacy, inflation and oil prices had no significant impact on the banks’ financial performance. The findings of this study are important for the banks in the MENA countries given the uncertain future with the recurrent emergence of global crises. Overall, it is recommended that the banks implement strategies to control the credit risks and thus maintain their profitability during such crises.
Single-Leg Squat and Reported Pain in Collegiate Softball Pitchers
Authors: Everhart Katherine M. , Friesen Kenzie B. , Bordelon Nicole M. , Fava Anthony W. , Plummer Hillary A. , Shannon David M. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Single-leg squat (SLS) performance is related to altered mechanics related to injury during the windmill softball pitch; however, it is unknown if SLS kinematics differ between softball pitchers with and without upper extremity pain.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to compare knee valgus, trunk rotation, trunk lateral flexion, and trunk flexion during an SLS in collegiate softball pitchers with and without self-reported upper extremity pain. It was hypothesized that those who reported upper extremity pain would show increased compensatory trunk and knee kinematics compared with those without pain.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 75 collegiate softball players (mean age, 20.4 ± 1.7 years; mean height, 173.3 ± 7.7 cm; mean weight, 79.1 ± 11.6 kg) participated and were placed in pain (n = 20) or no-pain (n = 55) groups. Participants performed an SLS once per side. Kinematic data were collected at 100 Hz using an electromagnetic tracking system. A 2 (pain vs no pain) × 2 (descent vs ascent) × 2 (drive leg vs stride leg) mixed-design multivariate analysis of variance with Wilks lambda distribution was used to determine differences in drive-leg and stride-leg lower body mechanics between the descent and ascent phases of the SLS between the pitchers in the current study with and without pain.

Results:

There was no significant effect in the 3-way interaction between upper extremity pain, side, and phase (Λ = 0.960; F[4, 70] = 0.726; P = .577; η2 = 0.04). However, there were large effects for the phase × side interaction (Λ = 0.850; P = .021; η2 = 0.150). There was a main effect of phase (Λ = 0.283; P < .001; η2 = 0.717).

Conclusion:

Study findings indicated that SLS mechanics do not differ between collegiate softball pitchers with and without reported upper extremity pain. Drive-leg mechanics showed more stability in the SLS than stride-leg mechanics.

Clinical Relevance:

Softball pitchers are at risk of upper extremity injury. It is important to identify mechanisms that may lead to pain in order to mitigate the risk of injury.
Use of Patient Preferences Data Regarding Multiple Risks to Inform Regulatory Decisions
Authors: Montano-Campos J. Felipe , Gonzalez Juan Marcos , Rickert Timothy , Fairchild Angelyn O. , Levitan Bennett , Reed Shelby D.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives. Risk-tolerance measures from patient-preference studies typically focus on individual adverse events. We recently introduced an approach that extends maximum acceptable risk (MAR) calculations to simultaneous maximum acceptable risk thresholds (SMART) for multiple treatment-related risks. We extend these methods to include the computation and display of confidence intervals and apply the approach to 3 published discrete-choice experiments to evaluate its utility to inform regulatory decisions. Methods. We generate MAR estimates and SMART curves and compare them with trial-based benefit-risk profiles of select treatments for depression, psoriasis, and thyroid cancer. Results. In the depression study, SMART curves with 70% to 95% confidence intervals portray which combinations of 2 adverse events would be considered acceptable. In the psoriasis example, the asymmetric confidence intervals for the SMART curve indicate that relying on independent MARs versus SMART curves when there are nonlinear preferences can lead to decisions that could expose patients to greater risks than they would accept. The thyroid cancer application shows an example in which the clinical incidence of each of 3 adverse events is lower than the single-event MARs for the expected treatment benefit, yet the collective risk profile surpasses acceptable levels when considered jointly. Limitations. Nonrandom sample of studies. Conclusions. When evaluating conventional MARs in which the observed incidences are near the estimated MARs or where preferences demonstrate diminishing marginal disutility of risk, conventional MAR estimates will overstate risk acceptance, which could lead to misinformed decisions, potentially placing patients at greater risk of adverse events than they would accept. Implications. The SMART method, herein extended to include confidence intervals, provides a reproducible, transparent evidence-based approach to enable decision makers to use data from discrete-choice experiments to account for multiple adverse events.

Highlights

Estimates of maximum acceptable risk (MAR) for a defined treatment benefit can be useful to inform regulatory decisions; however, the conventional metric considers one adverse event at a time. This article applies a new approach known as SMART (simultaneous maximum acceptable risk thresholds) that accounts for multiple adverse events to 3 published discrete-choice experiments. Findings reveal that conventional MARs could lead decision makers to accept a treatment based on individual risks that would not be acceptable if multiple risks are considered simultaneously.
Maximum spreading behavior of a water droplet on the aluminium surfaces with different wettabilities
Authors: Chauhan Poonam , Kumar Aditya
Published: January 2023

This work demonstrates the maximum spreading behavior of water droplets on prepared surfaces: superhydrophilic (etched), hydrophilic (inherent nature), hydrophobic (treated with hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS), and superhydrophobic (etched and HDTMS treated). Here, a simple chemical etching and immersion approach were used to modify the surfaces. Altering one surface property to the next shows a significant variation in the wetting behavior. The change in the wettability of the aluminium surface depends on its surface roughness and surface chemistry. The wettability of the fabricated surfaces was determined via water contact angle (WCA) measurement using a goniometer. A field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and a 3-D optical non-contact profilometer were used to analyze the surface morphology and surface roughness of all manufactured surfaces, respectively. Additional features such as the droplet dynamics property of all surfaces were studied in detail. Finally, the experimental results for the maximum spreading factor were compared to the existing model.
Marker-Assisted Introgression of the Salinity Tolerance Locus Saltol in Temperate Japonica Rice
Authors: Marè Caterina , Zampieri Elisa , Cavallaro Viviana , Frouin Julien , Grenier Cécile , Courtois Brigitte , Brottier Laurent , Tacconi Gianni , Finocchiaro Franca , Serrat Xavier , Nogués Salvador , Bundó Mireia , San Segundo Blanca , Negrini Noemi , Pesenti Michele , Sacchi Gian Attilio , Gavina Giacomo , Bovina Riccardo , Monaco Stefano , Tondelli Alessandro , Cattivelli Luigi , Valè Giampiero
Published: January 2023

Background

Rice is one of the most salt sensitive crops at seedling, early vegetative and reproductive stages. Varieties with salinity tolerance at seedling stage promote an efficient growth at early stages in salt affected soils, leading to healthy vegetative growth that protects crop yield. Saltol major QTL confers capacity to young rice plants growing under salt condition by maintaining a low Na+/K+ molar ratio in the shoots.

Results

Marker-assisted backcross (MABC) procedure was adopted to transfer Saltol locus conferring salt tolerance at seedling stage from donor indica IR64-Saltol to two temperate japonica varieties, Vialone Nano and Onice. Forward and background selections were accomplished using polymorphic KASP markers and a final evaluation of genetic background recovery of the selected lines was conducted using 15,580 SNP markers obtained from Genotyping by Sequencing. Three MABC generations followed by two selfing, allowed the identification of introgression lines achieving a recovery of the recurrent parent (RP) genome up to 100% (based on KASP markers) or 98.97% (based on GBS). Lines with highest RP genome recovery (RPGR) were evaluated for agronomical-phenological traits in field under non-salinized conditions. VN1, VN4, O1 lines were selected considering the agronomic evaluations and the RPGR% results as the most interesting for commercial exploitation. A physiological characterization was conducted by evaluating salt tolerance under hydroponic conditions. The selected lines showed lower standard evaluation system (SES) scores: 62% of VN4, and 57% of O1 plants reaching SES 3 or SES 5 respectively, while only 40% of Vialone Nano and 25% of Onice plants recorded scores from 3 to 5, respectively. VN1, VN4 and O1 showed a reduced electrolyte leakage values, and limited negative effects on relative water content and shoot/root fresh weight ratio.

Conclusion

The Saltol locus was successfully transferred to two elite varieties by MABC in a time frame of three years. The application of background selection until BC3F3 allowed the selection of lines with a RPGR up to 98.97%. Physiological evaluations for the selected lines indicate an improved salinity tolerance at seedling stage. The results supported the effectiveness of the Saltol locus in temperate japonica and of the MABC procedure for recovering of the RP favorable traits.
S100A9 plays a key role in Clostridium perfringens beta2 toxin-induced inflammatory damage in porcine IPEC-J2 intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Li Jie , Xie Kaihui , Yang Jiaojiao , Zhang Juanli , Yang Qiaoli , Wang Pengfei , Gun Shuangbao , Huang Xiaoyu
Published: January 2023

Background

As an important regulator of autoimmune responses and inflammation, S100A9 may serve as a therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases. However, the role of S100A9 in Clostridium perfringens type C infectious diarrhea is poorly studied. The aim of our study was to screen downstream target genes regulated by S100A9 in Clostridium perfringens beta2 (CPB2) toxin-induced IPEC-J2 cell injury. We constructed IPEC-J2 cells with S100A9 knockdown and a CPB2-induced cell injury model, screened downstream genes regulated by S100A9 using RNA-Seq technique, and performed functional enrichment analysis. The function of S100A9 was verified using molecular biology techniques.

Results

We identified 316 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), of which 221 were upregulated and 95 were downregulated. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the DEGs were significantly enriched in cilium movement, negative regulation of cell differentiation, immune response, protein digestion and absorption, and complement and coagulation cascades. The key genes of immune response were TNF, CCL1, CCR7, CSF2, and CXCL9. When CPB2 toxin-induced IPEC-J2 cells overexpressed S100A9, Bax expression increased, Bcl-2 expression and mitochondrial membrane potential decreased, and SOD activity was inhibited.

Conclusion

In conclusion, S100A9 was involved in CPB2-induced inflammatory response in IPEC-J2 cells by regulating the expression of downstream target genes, namely, TNF, CCL1, CCR7, CSF2, and CXCL9; promoting apoptosis; and aggravating oxidative cell damage. This study laid the foundation for further study on the regulatory mechanism underlying piglet diarrhea.
Antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus YT and its cell-surface extract
Authors: Guan Chengran , Zhang Wenjuan , Su Jianbo , Li Feng , Chen Dawei , Chen Xia , Huang Yujun , Gu Ruixia , Zhang Chenchen
Published: January 2023

Background

Foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria survived in the biofilm pose a serious threat to food safety and human health. It is urgent to find safe and effective methods to control the planktonic bacteria as well as the biofilm formation. Substances with antibacterial and antibiofilm activity found in lactic acid bacteria were mainly metabolites secreted in the cell-free supernatant. Previously, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus YT was isolated because its cell pellets displayed distinguished antibacterial activity under neutral conditions. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of the L. rhamnosus YT cells and its crude cell-surface extract.

Results

The antibacterial activity of the L. rhamnosus YT cells constantly increased with cells growth and reached the peak value after the cells grew into stationary phase. After cocultivation with the L. rhamnosus YT cells, the biofilm formation of B. subtilis and S. enterica was reduced. The antibacterial activity of the L. rhamnosus YT cells was varied along with various culture conditions (carbon sources, nitrogen sources, medium pH and cultural temperatures) and the antibacterial intensity (antibacterial activity per cell) was disproportional to the biomass. Furthermore, the cell-surface extract was isolated and displayed broad antimicrobial spectrum with a bacteriostatic mode of action. The antibiofilm activity of the extract was concentration-dependent. In addition, the extract was stable to physicochemical treatments (heat, pH and protease). The extract performed favorable emulsifying property which could reduce the water surface tension from 72.708 mN/m to 51.011 mN/m and the critical micelle concentration (CMC) value was 6.88 mg/mL. Besides, the extract was also able to emulsify hydrocarbon substrates with the emulsification, index (E24) ranged from 38.55% (for n-hexane) to 53.78% (for xylene). The E24 for xylene/extract emulsion was merely decreased by 5.77% after standing for 120 h. The main components of the extract were polysaccharide (684.63 μg/mL) and protein (120.79 μg/mL).

Conclusion

The properties of the extract indicated that it might be a kind of biosurfactant. These data suggested that L. rhamnosus YT and the cell-surface extract could be used as an alternative antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent against foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria in food industry.