bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is balance a marker of health status in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Rebelo C , Jose Bastos J B , Vera Afreixo V A , Ana Abreu A A
Published: July 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

A significant percentage of patients hospitalized for the coronary disease have a decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), limiting their ability to perform their daily activities and increasing their dependence. Mobility is one of the most affected factors, namely postural balance, walking, transfers, hygiene care, among others. This fact can hinder the resolution of the underlying pathology, delay its resolution, facilitate the appearance of comorbidities, and cause prolonged hospitalization, causing a greater state of fragility. The implementation of measures that improve this dependence and fragility will hypothetically have effects on quality of life and prognosis. Exercise inertia is a well-defined cardiovascular (CV) risk factor, that causes greater physical dependence, greater frailty, and less responsiveness to disease. The authors consider that any improvement in this aspect will lead to a better CV prognosis.

Purpose

To assess the physical fitness of patients undergoing a phase I rehabilitation program to improve their cardiac condition

Methods

Longitudinal, prospective, and experimental study hospitalized for coronary disease.

Physical fitness was evaluated: 1) dynamic balance and mobility (Fullerton test battery that already includes the 6-minute walk test and body composition), 2) upper body strength (handgrip strength test), 3) cardiorespiratory fitness, and 4) body composition. Morisky Medication Adherence Scale and STOP-Bang scale (Snoring, Tiredness, Observed apnea, high blood Pressure, Body mass index, Age, Neck circumference, and Gender) were also applied. The descriptive and inferential analysis was performed using the R version 4.2.2 program, all test results with p<0.05 are considered statistically significant.

Results

65 patients were evaluated, with a median age of 63 and interquartile range (57, 72), of which 23% had LVEF≤40%; 86% had high blood pressure, 80% have dyslipidemia, 73% drank alcohol daily and only 23% practice regular physical exercise. When applying the Fullerton balance test, we found that: 74% cannot safely turn 360º, needing four or more steps in both directions; 92% cannot walk independently and without interruptions on a straight line on the ground; 74% cannot balance on one leg autonomously and maintain the position for 20 seconds. We also found that 68% had a high risk of sleep apnea (STOP-Bang scale).

LVEF data were divided into classes (LVEF ≤40; LVEF 41-50; LVEF >50) and the association was evaluated using Fisher's exact test and Kruskal-Wallis test, and it was verified that there is a positive association between balance and LVEF (p-value = 0.2) and 6mTM and LVEF (p-value = 0.07).

Conclusion

The positive associations found between balance and mobility limitations in this sample suggest that specific programs may improve balance and, consequently, the patient's general state of health.
Feasibility a mobile exergame intervention for patients with heart failure
Authors: Andreassen M , Klompstra L , Stromberg A , Jaarsma T
Published: July 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Swedish National Science Council (2020-01109)

The Swedish Heart and Lung Foundation (20200190)

Introduction

People with heart failure often perceive difficulties performing physical activities due to their symptoms. However, physical activity is beneficial and recommended. Therefore, it is a need for interventions supporting patients to increase their physical activity in everyday life.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the feasibility of a mobile exergame intervention for patients with heart failure.

Methods

Nine Swedish patients with heart failure, seven male and two female, median age 73 years (range 63-81) participated. Patients downloaded the exergaming application "Heart Farming" on their private smartphones. Patients were advised to increase daily walking based on their physical condition. Patients received introduction and telephone conversations on a predetermined schedule. Feasibility areas of Acceptability, Demand, Implementation, and Practicality were examined by interviews and data downloaded from the application.

Results

Patients used Heart farming for one month, their goal of daily walks was in mean 704 meters (range 417-900 meters). Patients increased daily walks and experienced improved health. The individual conversations were perceived supportive and encouraging. Heart farming was perceived easy to learn, use and adjustable to individual needs.

Conclusions

The study confirmed the impact of encouragement, and importance of tailoring the intervention to patients' personal situation, to achieve regularly daily walks.
Improving cognitive function after cardiac surgery: home-based computerised cognitive training (FACCT study)
Authors: Bowden T , Aitken L M , Hurt C S , Sanders J
Published: July 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Barts Charity Nurse / Allied Healthcare Professional Clinical Research Fellowship (MRC0229, Improving cognitive health after cardiac surgery)

Background

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) occurs in up to 50% of patients after cardiac surgery. Despite extensive research, the underlying causes and pathophysiology are poorly understood. Further, definitive treatments for POCD are lacking. The focus of this doctoral work was to identify predictors of POCD, examine the effectiveness of existing cognitive interventions on improving cognitive function, and use the findings of both of these systematic reviews to design and develop a cognitive training programme in postoperative cardiac surgery patients.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based computerised cognitive training programme in postoperative cardiac surgery patients.

Methods

This is a single-arm, non-blinded, feasibility and acceptability study involving adult (>18 years of age) patients admitted for first time elective cardiac surgery. Participants were required to complete an 8-week cognitive training programme (40 sessions [20 minutes/day, 5 days/week]), commencing one week postoperatively, and administered using their own computers or tablets. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a brief test of global cognition, was administered preoperatively and after the training programme. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment and retention rates and adherence to the programme. Acceptability was assessed by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability Questionnaire (TFA-Q) which was administered post-programme.

Results

In total, 95 patients were screened, 51 (53.7%) were eligible and approached, and 31 (60.8%) consented to participate. Of these, 29 participants enrolled in the cognitive training programme, 7 (24.1%) were female, 20 (69.0%) were white British, and the mean baseline MoCA was 26.9 (out of 30). Data collection is complete, final analysis will be complete for presentation prior to ACNAP 2023. Interim results suggest that home-based computerised cognitive training (CCT) is feasible in terms of recruitment rate (60.8%, exceeding the target of 50%) and acceptable (with 94.1% of those who completed the TFA-Q identifying CCT as acceptable). Other feasibility indicators measured include retention (58.6%) and adherence (31.0%).

Conclusions

A trial examining home-based computerised cognitive training appears feasible and acceptable to patients, although strategies to improve retention and adherence will need to be strengthened. If found to be beneficial, such a programme could offer an inexpensive and safe method of improving postoperative cognitive function.
Player-centered, iterative, and interdisciplinary design and development of a mobile exergame for older cardiac patients
Authors: Berglund A , Jaarsma T , Oradd H , Jedel I , Fallstrom J , Stromberg A , Klompstra L , Berglund E
Published: July 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Vetenskapsrådet

Background

Reducing inactivity in cardiac patients is vital since it can decrease the risk for disease progression and mortality. Current commercial available exergames (games where one has to be physically active to be able to play) might not optimally meet the needs of cardiac patients. The aim of this project was to design and develop a mobile exergame app involving end-users (elderly cardiac patients).

Method

The player-centered, iterative, interdisciplinary, and integrated (P-III) framework for designing and developing serious games has been modified and used for designing and developing the exergame involving end-users. This framework has 4 pillars:

1. Player-centered design process

2. Iterative development

3. Interdisciplinary teamwork

4. Integration of play and the serious content

End-users involved in the project were patients from a local patient organization for patients with heart and lung diseases.

Results

In the player-centered design process cardiac patients were involved in the entire game design and development, not only during the usability testing phase. In the iterative development of the game, we had a visual game design of the game to understand the players’ group and the problem domain. Later the visual game concept was transformed into a prototype of the game. This prototype was adapted within seven iterations to a mobile exergame. The development was through interdisciplinary teamwork, where both cardiac patients, experts in cardiac care and game developers worked closely together in developing the game. The serious content in our project is physical activity and the integration is focused on exergame design guidelines for older adults and fitness application guidelines for cardiac patients.

The mobile exergame that was developed, has as main goal to walk 10 minutes more a day. The concept of the game is based on taking care of a farm and expanding it by sowing, watering, and planting fruits and vegetables. To do activities in the farm the user has to walk in the physical world, this could be both done indoors or outdoors. Each activity is rewarded with experience points (see screenshot mobile exergame).

Conclusion

An exergame was successfully developed within an interdisciplinary team with as goal to encourage cardiac patients to walk 10 minutes more a day. This game will now be tested in a randomized control trial, called the Heart-eXg study.Screenshot exergame
A simple dietary intervention to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in individuals with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Biddle M , Kang J H , Brewer D
Published: July 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Approximately 25% of the world's population have metabolic syndrome and those diagnosed have a two-fold risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Inflammation and oxidative stress are responsible for the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome. Diets with a high intake of vegetables containing carotenoids, a type of antioxidants, are associated with reduced levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, yet interventions to increase vegetable intake have been difficult to adapt. We conducted a randomized controlled trial of a simple dietary antioxidant intervention to reduce the levels of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Purpose

To examine the effect of a simple dietary antioxidant intervention on levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in persons with metabolic syndrome.

Methods

A total of 93 individuals with metabolic syndrome (mean age 61 ± 12 years old, 71% female) were enrolled. The intervention group received an 11.5-ounce serving of 100% carotenoid-rich vegetable juice to consume once per day for 30 days. The control group maintained their normal dietary pattern for 30 days. Adherence to the intervention was measured with Veggie Meter®, a validated reflection spectroscopy approach to assess skin carotenoid levels. Inflammation and oxidative stress were measured by plasma levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) at baseline and one-month post intervention. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare the group means over time. Log-transformation was applied as necessary for the variables with skewed distribution.

Results

There was no significant interaction between treatment and time on skin carotenoid levels, (respectively, P=0.214). There was a statistically significant increase of skin carotenoid levels in the intervention group alone (220 vs 264 in pre and post intervention, respectively, P=0.002). Change in mean CRP levels did not differ between control and intervention groups (P=0.520). Similarly, change in mean MDA did not significantly differ between two groups (P = 0.450).

Conclusion

A simple and easy to adapt, 1-month dietary antioxidant intervention did not change levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in individuals with metabolic syndrome, potentially due to the short-term treatment. Future interventions with dietary antioxidants should be implemented for longer time periods to fully assess the impact on inflammation and oxidative stress.
Higher Gaussian Maps on K3 Surfaces
Authors: Ríos Ortiz Ángel David
Published: July 2023

We give sufficient conditions for the surjectivity of higher Gaussian maps on a polarized K3 surface. As an application, we show that the $k$-th Gaussian map for a general curve of genus $g$ (that depends quadratically with $k$) is surjective. Along the proof, we also exhibit an ampleness criterion for divisors in the Hilbert scheme of two points of a K3 surface.
Uniform Mordell–Lang Plus Bogomolov
Authors: Ge Tangli
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we prove a uniform version of Poonen’s “Mordell-Lang Plus Bogomolov” theorem [ 12], based on Vojta’s method. Our main contribution is to generalize Rèmond’s work on the large points in order to allow an extra $\epsilon $-neighborhood in the canonical height topology. The part on small points follows from [ 8].
Cork sheet as an efficient biosorbent for forensic toxicology: Application to vitreous humor analysis
Authors: Ossanes Daniela Souza , Birk Letícia , Petry Adriana Ubirajara Silva , de Menezes Francisco Paz , Gonzaga Alexsandro Pinto , Schlickmann Paula Flores , Eller Sarah , de Oliveira Tiago Franco
Published: July 2023

There is an increasing number of people affected worldwide by mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. One of the main courses of treatment, along with psychotherapy, is the use of psychoactive medications, like antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Also, the unprescribed use of these substances is a concerning public health issue. Hence, the analysis of psychotropic medications is mandatory in postmortem toxicology and various biological samples can be used for this detection, among them the vitreous humor (VH) stands out. Also, there is a demand for more sustainable and more efficient extraction methodologies according to green chemistry. An example is solid phase microextraction techniques (SPME), which use a solid sorbent and small solvent amounts. Biosorbents are substances of natural origin with sorptive properties, and they have been successfully used in SPME in environmental toxicology for water analysis, mainly. This study aimed to develop a sustainable, fast, cheap and simple SPME methodology using cork sheet strips as a biosorbent, to extract antidepressants, benzodiazepines and others from VH samples by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. The extraction was conducted in a 96-well plate using 200 µL of VH and optimization of relevant parameters for extraction was performed. For solvent optimization, two simplex-centroid experiments were planned for extraction and desorption and to evaluate time and pH, a Doehlert design experiment was performed. The analytical method for the determination and quantification of 17 substances was validated. The quantification limits were 5 ng/mL for all analytes and the calibration curves were linear between 5 and 30 ng/mL. This study was able to develop an efficient, cheap, simple and fast microextraction method for 17 analytes in VH, using strips of cork sheet for extraction and a 96-well plate as a container. Furthermore, this approach system could be automated for routine toxicology laboratories.
Deciphering the regulatory network of the NAC transcription factor FvRIF, a key regulator of strawberry (Fragaria vesca) fruit ripening
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Martín-Pizarro Carmen , Zhou Leilei , Hou Bingzhu , Wang Yuying , Shen Yuanyue , Li Bingbing , Posé David , Qin Guozheng
Published: July 2023

The NAC transcription factor ripening inducing factor (RIF) was previously reported to be necessary for the ripening of octoploid strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) fruit, but the mechanistic basis of RIF-mediated transcriptional regulation and how RIF activity is modulated remains elusive. Here, we show that FvRIF in diploid strawberry, Fragaria vesca, is a key regulator in the control of fruit ripening and that knockout mutations of FvRIF result in a complete block of fruit ripening. DNA affinity purification sequencing coupled with transcriptome deep sequencing suggests that 2,080 genes are direct targets of FvRIF-mediated regulation, including those related to various aspects of fruit ripening. We provide evidence that FvRIF modulates anthocyanin biosynthesis and fruit softening by directly regulating the related core genes. Moreover, we demonstrate that FvRIF interacts with and serves as a substrate of MAP kinase 6 (FvMAPK6), which regulates the transcriptional activation function of FvRIF by phosphorylating FvRIF at Thr-310. Our findings uncover the FvRIF-mediated transcriptional regulatory network in controlling strawberry fruit ripening and highlight the physiological significance of phosphorylation modification on FvRIF activity in ripening.
The 14-3-3 protein OsGF14f interacts with OsbZIP23 and enhances its activity to confer osmotic stress tolerance in rice
Authors: Ma Yamei , Wu Ziying , Dong Jingfang , Zhang Shaohong , Zhao Junliang , Yang Tifeng , Yang Wu , Zhou Lian , Wang Jian , Chen Jiansong , Liu Qing , Liu Bin
Published: July 2023

Drought, which can induce osmotic stress, is the leading environmental constraint on crop productivity. Plants in both agricultural and natural settings have developed various mechanisms to cope with drought stress. The identification of genes associated with drought stress tolerance and understanding the underlying regulatory mechanisms are prerequisites for developing molecular manipulation strategies to address this issue. Here, we reported that the G-BOX FACTOR 14-3-3f (14-3-3 protein OsGF14f) positively modulates osmotic stress tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa). OsGF14f transgenic lines had no obvious change in crucial agronomic traits including yield and plant height. OsGF14f is transcriptionally induced by PEG treatment, and in rice, overexpression or knockout of this gene leads to enhanced or weakened osmotic stress tolerance, respectively. Furthermore, OsGF14f positively regulates abscisic acid (ABA) responses by interacting with the core ABA-responsive transcription factor BASIC LEUCINE ZIPPER 23 (OsbZIP23) to enhance its transcriptional regulation activity toward downstream target genes. Further genetic analysis showed that OsGF14f is required for the full function of OsbZIP23 in rice osmotic response, and OsGF14f-mediated osmotic stress tolerance partially depends on OsbZIP23. Interestingly, OsGF14f is a direct target gene of OsbZIP23. Taken together, our findings reveal a genetic and molecular framework by which the OsGF14f–OsbZIP23 complex modulates rice osmotic response, providing targets for developing drought-tolerant crops.
Mechanisms underlying the prolonged activation of the genioglossus following arousal from sleep
Authors: Dawson Andrew , Avraam Joanne , Nicholas Christian L , Kay Amanda , Thornton Therese , Feast Nicole , Fridgant Monika D , O’Donoghue Fergal J , Trinder John , Jordan Amy S
Published: July 2023

Study Objectives

Transient arousal from sleep has been shown to elicit a prolonged increase in genioglossus muscle activity that persists following the return to sleep and which may protect against subsequent airway collapse. We hypothesized that this increased genioglossal activity following return to sleep after an arousal is due to persistent firing of inspiratory-modulated motor units (MUs) that are recruited during the arousal.

Methods

Thirty-four healthy participants were studied overnight while wearing a nasal mask with pneumotachograph to measure ventilation and with 4 intramuscular genioglossus EMG electrodes. During stable N2 and N3 sleep, auditory tones were played to induce brief (3-15s) AASM arousals. Ventilation and genioglossus MUs were quantified before the tone, during the arousal and for 10 breaths after the return to sleep.

Results

A total of 1089 auditory tones were played and gave rise to 239 MUs recorded across arousal and the return to sleep in 20 participants (aged 23 ± 4.2 years and BMI 22.5 ± 2.2 kg/m2). Ventilation was elevated above baseline during arousal and the first post-arousal breath (p < .001). Genioglossal activity was elevated for five breaths following the return to sleep, due to increased firing rate and recruitment of inspiratory modulated MUs, as well as a small increase in tonic MU firing frequency.

Conclusions

The sustained increase in genioglossal activity that occurs on return to sleep after arousal is primarily a result of persistent activity of inspiratory-modulated MUs, with a slight contribution from tonic units. Harnessing genioglossal activation following arousal may potentially be useful for preventing obstructive respiratory events.
Cavernous nerve mapping methods for radical prostatectomy
Authors: Unal Selman , Musicki Biljana , Burnett Arthur L
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Preserving the cavernous nerves, the main autonomic nerve supply of the penis, is a major challenge of radical prostatectomy. Cavernous nerve injury during radical prostatectomy predominantly accounts for post–radical prostatectomy erectile dysfunction. The cavernous nerve is a bilateral structure that branches in a weblike distribution over the prostate surface and varies anatomically in individuals, such that standard nerve-sparing methods do not sufficiently sustain penile erection ability. As a consequence, researchers have focused on developing personalized cavernous nerve mapping methods applied to the surgical procedure aiming to improve postoperative sexual function outcomes.

Objectives

We provide an updated overview of preclinical and clinical data of cavernous nerve mapping methods, emphasizing their strengths, limitations, and future directions.

Methods

A literature review was performed via Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar for studies that describe cavernous nerve mapping/localization.

Results

Several cavernous nerve mapping methods have been investigated based on various properties of the nerve structures including stimulation techniques, spectroscopy/imaging techniques, and assorted combinations of these methods. More recent methods have portrayed the course of the main cavernous nerve as well as its branches based on real-time mapping, high-resolution imaging, and functional imaging. However, each of these methods has distinctive limitations, including low spatial accuracy, lack of standardization for stimulation and response measurement, superficial imaging depth, toxicity risk, and lack of suitability for intraoperative use.

Conclusion

While various cavernous nerve mapping methods have provided improvements in identification and preservation of the cavernous nerve during radical prostatectomy, no method has been implemented in clinical practice due to their distinctive limitations. To overcome the limitations of existing cavernous nerve mapping methods, the development of new imaging techniques and mapping methods is in progress. There is a need for further research in this area to improve sexual function outcomes and quality of life after radical prostatectomy.
Using Radiomics to Differentiate Brain Metastases From Lung Cancer Versus Breast Cancer, Including Predicting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Status
Authors: Shi Jiaxin , Chen Huanhuan , Wang Xiaoyu , Cao Ran , Chen Yu , Cheng Yuan , Pang Ziyan , Huang Chao
Published: July 2023

Objective

We evaluated the feasibility of using multiregional radiomics to identify brain metastasis (BM) originating from lung adenocarcinoma (LA) and breast cancer (BC) and assess the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status.

Methods

Our experiment included 160 patients with BM originating from LA (n = 70), BC (n = 67), and other tumor types (n = 23), between November 2017 and December 2021. All patients underwent contrast-enhanced T1- and T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. A total of 1967 quantitative MRI features were calculated from the tumoral active area and peritumoral edema area and selected using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression with 5-fold cross-validation. We constructed radiomic signatures (RSs) based on the most predictive features for preoperative assessment of the metastatic origins, EGFR mutation, and HER2 status. Prediction performance of the constructed RSs was evaluated based on the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

The developed multiregion RSs generated good area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for identifying the LA and BC origin in the training (AUCs, RS-LA vs RS-BC, 0.767 vs 0.898) and validation (AUCs, RS-LA vs RS-BC, 0.778 and 0.843) cohort and for predicting the EGFR and HER2 status in the training (AUCs, RS-EGFR vs RS-HER2, 0.837 vs 0.894) and validation (AUCs, RS-EGFR vs RS-HER2, 0.729 vs 0.784) cohorts.

Conclusions

Our results revealed associations between brain MRI-based radiomics and their metastatic origins, EGFR mutations, and HER2 status. The developed multiregion combined RSs may be considered noninvasive predictive markers for planning early treatment for BM patients.
Radiogenomic Analysis of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Patients With Glioblastoma
Authors: Zheng Fei , Chen Baoshi , Zhang Lingling , Chen Hongyan , Zang Yuying , Chen Xuzhu , Li Yiming
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This article aims to predict the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and to predict the expression level of VEGF by machine learning based on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of glioblastoma (GBM).

Methods

We analyzed the axial T2-weighted images (T2WI) and T1-weighted contrast-enhancement images of preoperative MRI in 217 patients with pathologically diagnosed GBM. Patients were divided into negative and positive VEGF groups, with the latter group further subdivided into low and high expression. The machine learning models were established with the maximum relevance and minimum redundancy algorithm and the extreme gradient boosting classifier. The area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) and accuracy were calculated for the training and validation sets.

Results

Positive VEGF in GBM was 63.1% (137/217), with a high expression ratio of 53.3% (73/137). To predict the positive and negative VEGF expression, 7 radiomic features were selected, with 3 features from T1CE and 4 from T2WI. The accuracy and AUC were 0.83 and 0.81, respectively, in the training set and were 0.73 and 0.74, respectively, in the validation set. To predict high and low levels, 7 radiomic features were selected, with 2 from T1CE, 1 from T2WI, and 4 from the data combinations of T1CE and T2WI. The accuracy and AUC were 0.88 and 0.88, respectively, in the training set and were 0.72 and 0.72, respectively, in the validation set.

Conclusion

The VEGF expression status in GBM can be predicted using a machine learning model. Radiomic features resulting from data combinations of different MRI sequences could be helpful.
International Collaboration for the Prosthetic and Surgical Intervention of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency
Authors: Inostroza-Allende Felipe , Torres Cavallo Silvia , Palomares-Aguilera Mirta , Giugliano-Villarroel Carlos , Villarruel Andrea , Benegas Jorge , Selvaggio Miguel , Sammartino Fernando
Published: July 2023

Interdisciplinary teamwork is essential for the rehabilitation of patients with cleft lip and palate, and therefore, the application of treatment techniques for velopharyngeal insufficiency, both surgical and prosthetic, depends on the experience of each rehabilitation team. For this reason, the following study consisting of the cooperation between interdisciplinary cleft lip and palate teams from Chile and Argentina, which succeeded in correcting velopharyngeal insufficiency in an adolescent, initially using a pharyngeal bulb prosthesis and speech therapy, and finally through pharyngeal flap surgery, is presented. This shows that international cooperation is a valuable tool for training, implementation, and follow-up of different treatment techniques for teams in formation.
Intracranial Hemorrhage Presenting With ST-Segment Elevation and T-Wave Inversion Concerning for Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Rusoja Evan , Singh Amandeep
Published: July 2023

Acute neurologic injury and increased intracranial pressure are associated with electrocardiographic (ECG) changes that include rhythm disturbances as well as ECG mimics of myocardial ischemia, such as focal or diffuse ST-segment or T-wave abnormalities. Both the mechanism and significance of these ECG changes are not clear. The authors report a case of a patient with a complex medical history who became hypotensive after he presented with acute intracranial hemorrhage. A subsequent ECG showing ST-segment elevation in the inferior and lateral leads was concerning for acute myocardial infarction. ST-segment elevation in the setting of acute intracranial hemorrhage can lead to diagnostic confusion and/or premature narrowing of the differential diagnosis. This case report starts with an example of this exact scenario, provides a concise overview of potential mechanisms, and concludes with several possible strategies that the emergency provider can use to identify this effect in an undifferentiated patient.
Mycoplasma Genitalium
Authors: Harcar Crystle
Published: July 2023

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a bacterium that can be spread through sexual contact with another person who is infected. If misdiagnosed and left untreated, this newer, emerging sexually transmitted infection (STI) can cause complications such as urethritis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in both men and women. In males, MG can be asymptomatic and undetectable. In females, MG may present with nonspecific symptoms, such as dysuria, vaginal discharge, and/or pelvic pain. In addition to chlamydia and gonorrhea, MG may result in PID. Due to the complications of MG, health care providers in the emergency department setting need to consider this as a differential diagnosis when performing STI and vaginitis screenings on sexually active patients who may present with urinary or vaginal complaints. As patients with pelvic pain are frequently seen in the emergency department, providers need to be aware of the role that MG may play in STIs and the subsequent sequelae if not treated properly.
Splint Quality Assessment and Improvement Among Emergency Department Staff
Authors: Cucchiara Jason , Thompson Julie , Zychowicz Michael , McHone Adam , Williamson Robert
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this quality improvement project is to assess and improve the quality of splint application in the emergency department (ED), as well as the splint application confidence level of the ED staff. Consistent and high-quality splint application is critical in fracture stabilization and prevention of further injury. Significantly high turnover and a lack of formal training of ED staff has led to poor splint application, and in some cases, patient injuries related to the splints themselves. These injuries include pain, edema, and skin complications (A. P. Carino, 2017). A random, Likert-based analysis was performed on 20 ED-applied splints. Once analysis was complete, training courses were implemented to improve splint application techniques. Using the same Likert-based tool, applications of 20 posttraining splints were analyzed. In addition, ED staff confidence levels were scored before and after the training courses. Overall, statistically significant improvement was achieved in splint application quality and staff confidence. Correct splint applications increased from 50% to 95% after the educational sessions. Staff confidence in splint application also increased, from 35% to 77.1%. Quality splint application affects all patients. The higher risk population is more likely to suffer the consequences of poor splint application. This project had a positive impact on the region's marginalized patient population. These patients have limited resources, including lack of transportation, financial limitations, and typically are at higher risk for complications due to comorbidities.
Lactiplantibacillus carotarum AMBF275T sp. nov. isolated from carrot juice fermentation
Authors: Eilers Tom , Dillen Jelle , Van de Vliet Nele , Wittouck Stijn , Lebeer Sarah
Published: July 2023

A novel strain of the genus

Lactiplantibacillus

, named AMBF275T, was isolated from fermented carrot juice, a salted fermented beverage dominated by lactic acid bacteria. The results of phylogenetic analysis indicated that the 16S rRNA gene of AMBF275T is most similar to the 16S rRNA gene of

Lactiplantibacillus garii

FI11369T with a sequence similarity of 99.4 %. However, a genome-wide comparison using average nucleotide identity (ANI) revealed that AMBF275T and

L. garii

FI11369T have an ANI of only 82.35 %. ANI values between AMBF275T and other representative strains of species of the genus

Lactiplantibacillus

from the Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB) were even lower than this 82.35 %, indicating that AMBF275T represents a distinct species. We thus propose the name Lactiplantibacillus carotarum sp. nov. for this novel species, with AMBF275T (=LMG 32885T, =CECT 30757T) as the type strain.
Experience-dependent plasticity of a highly specific olfactory circuit inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Fabian Benjamin , Grabe Veit , Beutel Rolf G. , Hansson Bill S. , Sachse Silke
Published: July 2023

Drosophila melanogasterencounters a variety of odor cues signaling potentially harmful threats through-out its life, which are detected by highly specialized olfactory circuits enabling the animal to avoid them. We studied whether such crucial neuronal pathways are hard-wired or can be modulated by experience. Using long-term exposure to high concentrations of geosmin, an indicator of potentially lethal microorganisms, we demonstrate at the single-cell level that the underlying neuronal circuitry undergoes structural changes in the antennal lobe, while higher brain centers remain unaffected. In particular, second-order neurons show neurite extensions and synaptic remodeling after the exposure period, whereas olfactory sensory neurons and glia cells remain unaffected. Flies that were exposed to geosmin tolerate this innately aversive odorant in general choice and oviposition assays. We show that even a highly specific olfactory circuit is plastic and adaptable to environmental changes.

HIGHLIGHTS

The highly specific geosmin circuit is modulated by experience-dependent plasticity

PN dendritic extensions cause a volumetric increase of the geosmin-detecting glomerulus

LNs are remodeled while OSNs and glia cells remain unaffected by long-term exposure

Flies adapt their behavior to an odorant signaling a potential lethal threat
Flicker light stimulation induces thalamocortical hyperconnectivity with LGN and higher-order thalamic nuclei
Authors: Amaya Ioanna A. , Schmidt Marianna E. , Bartossek Marie T. , Kemmerer Johanna , Kirilina Evgeniya , Nierhaus Till , Schmidt Timo T.
Published: July 2023

The thalamus is primarily known as a relay for sensory information; however, it also critically contributes to higher-order cortical processing and coordination. Thalamocortical hyperconnectivity is associated with hallucinatory phenomena that occur in various psychopathologies (e.g., psychosis, migraine aura) and altered states of consciousness (ASC, e.g., induced by psychedelic drugs). However, the exact functional contribution of thalamocortical hyperconnectivity in forming hallucinatory experiences is unclear. Flicker light stimulation (FLS) can be used as an experimental tool to induce transient visual hallucinatory phenomena in healthy participants. Here, we use FLS in combination with fMRI to test how FLS modulates thalamocortical connectivity between specific thalamic nuclei and visual areas. We show that FLS induces thalamocortical hyperconnectivity between LGN, early visual areas and proximal upstream areas of ventral and dorsal visual streams (e.g., hV4, VO1, V3a). Further, an exploratory analysis indicates specific higher-order thalamic nuclei, such as anterior and mediodorsal nuclei, to be strongly affected by FLS. Here, the connectivity changes to upstream cortical visual areas directly reflect a frequency-dependent increase in experienced visual phenomena. Together these findings contribute to the identification of specific thalamocortical interactions in the emergence of visual hallucinations.

Highlights

Flicker light stimulation (FLS) induces thalamocortical hyperconnectivity between the first-order thalamic LGN and early visual cortices, likely due to entrainment.

Thalamocortical connectivity between LGN and upstream visual areas, but not V1, is associated with the intensity of visual hallucinations.

Thalamocortical connectivity changes with higher-order thalamic nuclei, such as anterior and mediodorsal nuclei, show strongest modulation by flicker frequency, which corresponds to the intensity of visual hallucinations.
Sensitivity analysis of models of gas exchange for lung hyperpolarised 129-Xe MRS and MRI
Authors: Taylor Yohn , Wilson Frederick J , Kim Mina , Parker Geoff J M
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Sensitivity analysis enables the identification of influential parameters and the optimisation of model composition. Such methods have not previously been applied systematically to models describing hyperpolarised129Xe gas exchange in the lung. Here, we evaluate current129Xe gas exchange models to assess their precision for identifying alterations in pulmonary-vascular function and lung microstructure.

Methods

We assess sensitivity using established univariate methods and scatter plots for parameter interactions. We apply them to the model described by Patz and MOXEet al., examining their ability to measure: i) importance (rank), ii) temporal dependence, and iii) interaction effects of each parameter across healthy and diseased ranges.

Results

The univariate methods and scatter plot analyses demonstrate consistently similar results for the importance of parameters common to both models evaluated. Alveolar surface area to volume ratio is identified as the parameter to which model signals are most sensitive. The alveolar-capillary barrier thickness is identified as a low-sensitivity parameter for the MOXE model. An acquisition window of at least 200 ms effectively demonstrates model sensitivity to most parameters. Scatter plots reveal interaction effects in both models, impacting output variability and sensitivity.

Conclusion

Our sensitivity analysis ranks the parameters within the model described by Patzet aland within the MOXE model. The MOXE model shows low sensitivity to alveolar-capillary barrier thickness, highlighting the need for designing acquisition protocols optimised for the measurement of this parameter. The presence of parameter interaction effects highlights the requirement for care in interpreting model outputs.
Human receptive endometrial organoid for deciphering the implantation window
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhao Rusong , Yang Chaoyan , Song Jinzhu , Liu Peishu , Li Yan , Liu Boyang , Li Tao , Yin Changjian , Lu Minghui , Hou Zhenzhen , Zhang Chuanxin , Chen Zi-Jiang , Wu Keliang , Zhao Han
Published: July 2023

Human endometrial receptivity is a critical determinant of pregnancy success; however, in vivo studies of its features and regulation are particularly challenging due to ethical restriction. Recently, the development of human endometrial organoids has provided a powerful model to examine this intricate biological process. In this study, we established a specialized human window-of-implantation (WOI) endometrial organoid system that mimics the in vivo receptive endometrium. The endometrial organoid recapitulates not only the structural attributes of glands and stroma, but also the in vivo endometrium’s cell types at the single-cell level. Furthermore, the WOI endometrial organoid exhibits the features of in vivo implantation endometrium such as hormone responsiveness, secretory functions, and distinctive implantation window hallmarks, including decidualization, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, pinopode formation, cilia generation and metabolism. This in vitro model also effectively demonstrates the process of proliferation-secretory transformation, ciliary epithelium differentiation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). As such, WOI organoids hold great promise as an alternative platform to unravel the intricate mechanisms governing endometrial receptivity regulation, maternal-fetal interactions, and associated diseases, ultimately driving impactful advancements in the field.
Experimental investigation of NACA 4415 airfoil using vibration data for stall detection
Authors: Ayaz Ümütlü Hatice Cansu , Kiral Zeki , Karadeniz Ziya Haktan
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the possible relation between the vibration and the stall by using the vibration response of the airfoil. For this purpose, the root mean square values of the acceleration signals are evaluated to demonstrate the compatibility between the stall angles and the vibration levels.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental study is conducted on NACA 4415 airfoil at Reynolds numbers 69e3, 77e3 and 85e3. Experiments are performed from 0° to 25° of the angles of attack (AoA) for each Reynolds number condition. To observe the change of the vibration values at the stall region clearly, experiments are performed with the AoA ranging from 10° to 25° in 1° increments. Three acceleration sensors are used to obtain the vibration data.

Findings

The results show that the increase in the amplitude of the vibration is directly related to the decrease in lift. These findings indicate that this approach could be beneficial in detecting stall on airfoil-type structures.

Originality/value

This study proposes a new approach for detecting stall over the airfoil using the vibration data.
Importance–performance and potential gain of food delivery apps: in view of the restaurant partner perspective
Authors: Wahyudin Moh. , Chen Chih-Cheng , Yuliando Henry , Mujahidah Najihatul , Tsai Kune-Muh
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The food industry is continuously developing its online services called food delivery applications (FDAs). This study aims to evaluate FDA's importance–performance and identify strategies to maximize its potential gains from a business partner's perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from 208 FDA partners in Indonesia. Importance–performance analysis (IPA) is applied to evaluate the FDA feature and extended the theory of potential gain in customer value (PGCV) to achieve potential gains from FDA business partners.

Findings

This study provides a clear and measurable direction for future research to develop FDA performance. Owning customer data, revenue sharing and competitive advantage are the most potential gains from joining the FDA from the business partner perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The respondents are restaurants from the micro, small, and medium enterprises levels. Further research should involve middle to upper level restaurants to discover all business partners' perceptions. This will be very helpful for FDA providers interested in improving the best performance for all their partners.

Practical implications

FDA providers must focus on improving and maintaining the features of owning customer data, revenue sharing, competitive advantage, stable terms and conditions, customer interface, building customer loyalty, online presence, user credit rating, promotion and offers, delivery service and sales enhancement to increase consumer satisfaction and meet the expectations desired by business partners.

Originality/value

This research provides a meaningful theoretical foundation for future work. It extends the theory of PGCV using the value of a partner perspective as a substitute for customer value; hence, the authors call it a potential gain in partner value.
Records management in institutions of higher education in Africa: a hermeneutic literature review
Authors: Simwaka Kaitano , Malanga Donald Flywell , Chipeta George
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The study aims to present a hermeneutic literature review on records management practices in institutions of higher education in Africa to inform a prevailing records management phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

The review was underpinned by the hermeneutic approach as adapted from Boell and Cecez-Kecmanovic (2014). It was further guided by a qualitative analysis to underscore a critical assessment and development of themes in the study.

Findings

This process found that the management of records in Sub-Saharan African higher education is evident, but is overwhelmed by many factors. Hence, the study recommends the formulation and implementation of records management tools to guide and spur records management practices in African higher education.

Originality/value

The study operationalizes the hermeneutic approach in the records management practice.
A grey ordinal priority approach for healthcare waste disposal location selection
Authors: Chakraborty Santonab , Raut Rakesh D. , Rofin T.M. , Chakraborty Shankar
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Increasing public consciousness and demand for sustainable environment make selection of a safe location for effective disposal of healthcare waste (HCW) a challenging issue. This problem becomes more complicated due to involvement of multiple decision makers having varying knowledge and interest, conflicting quantitative and qualitative evaluation criteria, and presence of several alternative locations.

Design/methodology/approach

To efficiently resolve the problem, the past researchers have already coupled different multi-criteria decision-making tools with uncertainty models and criteria weight measurement techniques, which are time-consuming and highly computationally complex. Based on involvement of a group of experts expressing their opinions with respect to relative importance of criteria and performance of alternative locations against each criterion, this paper proposes application of ordinal priority approach (OPA) integrated with grey numbers to solve an HCW disposal location selection problem.

Findings

The grey OPA can simultaneously estimate weights of the experts, criteria and locations relieving the decision makers from complicated computational steps. The potentiality of grey OPA in solving an HCW disposal location selection problem is demonstrated here using an illustrative example consisting of three experts, six criteria and four alternative locations.

Originality/value

The derived results show that it can be employed to deal with real-time HCW disposal location selection problems in uncertain environment providing acceptable and robust decisions. It relieves the experts from pair-wise comparisons of criteria, normalization of data, identification of ideal and anti-ideal solutions, aggregation of information and so on, while arriving at the most consistent decision with minimum computational effort.