bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRONG for Surgery & Strong for Life — against all odds: intensive prehabilitation including smoking, nutrition, alcohol and physical activity for risk reduction in cancer surgery — a protocol for an RCT with nested interview study (STRONG-Cancer)
Authors: Tønnesen Hanne , Lydom Line Noes , Joensen Ulla Nordström , Egerod Ingrid , Pappot Helle , Lauridsen Susanne Vahr
Published: April 2022

Background

There is a large unused potential for risk reduction in the preoperative period via effective lifestyle intervention targeting co-existing risky lifestyles: Smoking, malNutrition, obesity, risky Alcohol intake and insufficient Physical activity (SNAP).

This trial compares the efficacy of the integrated STRONG programme with standard care on preoperative risk reduction and secondly on SNAP factor improvement and frailty, postoperative complications and quality of life. A nested interview study explores the patient preferences and the multi-perspective view of patients, relatives and health professionals.

Methods

In total, 42 surgical patients with ≥1 SNAP factor are allocated to individually tailored STRONG programme or usual care during adjuvant chemotherapy prior to radical bladder cancer surgery. The STRONG programme has ≥6 weekly sessions with patient education, motivational and pharmaceutical support. It is based on intensive smoking and alcohol cessation interventions reporting perioperative quit rates > 50%.

Surgical risk reduction is measured as ≥1 step for 1 or more risky lifestyles on the ASA-score, secondly as having no risky SNAP factors, and as any SNAP improvement. The outcomes are validated by measurements and biomarkers. Postoperative complications are categorised according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Health-related quality of life is measured by EQ-5D.

The patients are followed up after 6 weeks at surgery and 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively.

A representative sample of the participants, their relatives and the clinical staff are interviewed until data saturation. Transcription, triangulated analyses and data management are conducted using NVivo computer software.

Discussion

The surgical agenda is characterised by fixed dates for surgery focusing on clear risk reduction within a short time. This requires a clinical useful lifestyle intervention programme with a high effect and coverage as well as containing all SNAP factors and tailored to individual needs.

The STRONG programme seems to meet these requirements. After development in multi-professional collaboration, STRONG is delivered by a specially trained nurse as part of the surgical patient journey.

Overall, this study will bring important new knowledge about risk reduction in a frail patient group undergoing major cancer surgery.

Trial registration

Registration atwww.clintrials.gov(NCT04088968)

The manuscript form fromhttps://trialsjournal.biomedcentral.com/bmc/journaland the SPIRIT guidelines are followed.
Stable transformation of fluorescent proteins into Nosema bombycis by electroporation
Authors: Dong Zhanqi , Gao Na , Deng Boyuan , Huang Xuhua , Hu Congwu , Chen Peng , Wu Qin , Lu Cheng , Pan Minhui
Published: April 2022

Background

Microsporidia are a group of intracellular parasitic eukaryotes, serious pathogens that cause widespread infection in humans, vertebrates, and invertebrates. Because microsporidia have a thick spore wall structure, the in vitro transformation, cell culture, and genetic operation technology of microsporidia are far behind that of other parasites.

Methods

In this study, according to an analysis of the life-cycle of microsporidia,Nosema bombycis, and different electro-transformation conditions, the transduction efficiency of introducing foreign genes intoN. bombyciswas systematically determined.

Results

We analyzed the direct electro-transformation of foreign genes into germinatingN. bombycisusing reporters under the regulation of different characteristic promoters. Furthermore, we systematically determined the efficiency of electro-transformation intoN. bombycisunder different electro-transformation conditions and different developmental stages through an analysis of the whole life-cycle ofN. bombycis. These results revealed that foreign genes could be effectively introduced through a perforation voltage of 100 V pulsed for 15 ms during the period ofN. bombycissporeplasm proliferation.

Conclusions

We present an effective method for electro-transformation of a plasmid encoding a fluorescent protein intoN. bombycis, which provides new insight for establishing genetic modifications and potential applications in these intracellular parasites.

Graphical Abstract
Ornithodoros (Pavlovskyella) ticks associated with a Rickettsia sp. in Pakistan
Authors: Ali Abid , Numan Muhammad , Khan Mehran , Aiman Ome , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Chitimia-Dobler Lidia , Labruna Marcelo B. , Nijhof Ard M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Soft ticks (Ixodida: Argasidae) are medically important ectoparasites that mainly feed on birds and mammals, which play a key role in their geographic distribution and dispersion. Despite their importance, studies on soft ticks are scarce for many regions and countries of the world, including Pakistan.

Methods

In this study, 2330 soft ticks—179 larvae (7.7%), 850 nymphs (36.4%), 711 males (30.5%) and 590 females (25.3%)—were collected from animal shelters in 18 locations within five districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A subset of the collected ticks was processed for DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the amplification of tick 12S ribosomal DNA (rDNA), 16S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1), and rickettsial 16S rDNA gene fragments. The obtained sequences were used for the construction of a phylogenetic tree.

Results

All the specimens were morphologically identified as Ornithodoros, and were morphologically similar to Ornithodoros tholozani. The genus was confirmed by sequencing partial 12S rDNA, 16S rDNA and cox1 gene fragments. Additionally, a Rickettsia sp. was detected in some of the collected ticks by PCR targeting 16S rDNA. The morphological relatedness of the tick specimens with O. tholozani was confirmed by phylogenetic analysis, in which the Ornithodoros sp. clustered with Ornithodoros tholozani and Ornithodoros verrucosus, both of which belong to the subgenus Pavlovskyella and have been previously reported from Israel, Ukraine and Iran. The phylogenetic tree also indicated that the Ornithodoros sp. from Pakistan corresponds to an undetermined species. Furthermore, the associated Rickettsia sp. grouped with the limoniae group of Rickettsia species previously reported from Argas japonicus ticks from China.

Conclusions

This is the first molecular study of an Ornithodoros species from Pakistan. Further studies are essential to confirm its identity and possible pathogenicity with regard to its associated microorganisms in the studied region.

Graphical abstract
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA and IgG in human milk after vaccination is dependent on vaccine type and previous SARS-CoV-2 exposure: a longitudinal study
Authors: Selma-Royo Marta , Bäuerl Christine , Mena-Tudela Desirée , Aguilar-Camprubí Laia , Pérez-Cano Francisco J. , Parra-Llorca Anna , Lerin Carles , Martínez-Costa Cecilia , Collado Maria Carmen
Published: April 2022

Background

Breast milk is a vehicle to transfer protective antibodies from the lactating mother to the neonate. After SARS-CoV-2 infection, virus-specific IgA and IgG have been identified in breast milk, however, there are limited data on the impact of different COVID-19 vaccine types in lactating women. This study is aimed to evaluate the time course of induction of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA and IgG in breast milk after vaccination.

Methods

In this prospective observational study in Spain, 86 lactating women from priority groups receiving the vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 were included. Breast milk samples were collected longitudinally at seven or eight-time points (depending on vaccine type). A group with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (n=19) and a group of women from pre-pandemic time (n=20) were included for comparison.

Results

Eighty-six vaccinated lactating women [mean age, 34.6 ± 3.7 years] of whom 96% were Caucasian and 92% were healthcare workers. A total number of 582 milk samples were included, and vaccine distribution was BioNTech/Pfizer (BNT162b2, n=34), Moderna (mRNA-1273, n=20), and AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, n=32). For each vaccine, 7 and 8 longitudinal time points were collected from baseline up to 30 days after the second dose for mRNA vaccines and adenovirus-vectored vaccines, respectively. A strong reactivity was observed for IgG and IgA after vaccination mainly after the 2nd dose. The presence and persistence of specific SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in breast milk were dependent on the vaccine type, with higher IgG and IgA levels in mRNA-based vaccines when compared to AstraZeneca, and on previous virus exposure. High intra- and inter-variability were observed, being relevant for IgA antibodies. In milk from vaccinated women, anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG was significantly higher while IgA levels were lower than in milk from COVID-19-infected women. Women with previous COVID-19 increased their IgG antibodies levels after the first dose to a similar level observed in vaccinated women after the second dose.

Conclusions

COVID-19 vaccination induced anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA and IgG in breast milk with higher levels after the 2nd dose. Levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA and IgG are dependent on the vaccine type. Further studies are warranted to demonstrate the protective antibody effect against COVID-19 in infants from vaccinated and infected mothers.

Trial registration

NCT04751734 (date of registration is on February 12, 2021)
5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) at or near cancer mutation hot spots as potential targets for early cancer detection
Authors: Lu Michael J. , Lu Yabin
Published: April 2022

Objective

Universal noninvasive genomic screening to detect cancer and/or fetal DNA in plasma at all stages of development is highly warranted. Since 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) emerged as an intermediate metabolite in active DNA demethylation, there have been increasing efforts to elucidate its function as a stable modification of the genome. In the current study, we demonstrate that discrete 5hmC sites within 80 bp hotspot regions exist in a greater proportion of cancer versus normal cells.

Result

5hmC was detected in 16 of 17 known hotspots having C to T or G to A mutations. The results show the presence of two characteristically distinct 5hmC groups: Tier 1 Group with 3 to eightfold more 5hmCs detected in tumor-cells than in normal-cell derived DNA (as observed in 6 of 11 CpG sites). Tier 2 group with equal allele frequency of 5hmC among normal and tumor-cell derived DNA at 5 CpG hotspot sites as well as 5 non-CpG hotspots. Thus, detection and quantification of the Tier 1 group of 5hmC sites or its prevalence at or near cancer mutation hot spots in cells may enable early detection, screening and potentially prediction of the likelihood of cancer occurrence or the severity of the cancer.
ACE2 immunohistochemistry in salivary and tracheal glands related to age
Authors: Nogami Makoto , Hoshi Tomoaki , Toukairin Yoko , Arai Tomomi , Nishio Tadashi
Published: April 2022

Objective

SARS-CoV-2 is the cause of COVID-19, the rapidly spreading pandemic. When SARS-CoV-2 enters the target cells in the respiratory system, the spike glycoprotein binds to a cellular receptor angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The susceptibility to infection in individuals under 20 years of age is approximately half that of adults aged over 20 years. In this study, we investigated the immunohistochemical protein expressions of ACE2 in mandibular salivary glands and tracheal glands from forensic autopsy specimens covering adults and children.

Results

The ACE2 immunohistochemistry of autopsy specimens was performed, and the percentages of the immuno-positive areas in the cell layers of the glands were calculated. Our results demonstrate that the ACE2 positivity in mandibular salivary gland and tracheal glands showed the statistically significant decrease with the increase of age, which indicates that the susceptibility of aged individuals to SARS-CoV-2 may be due to various factors including but not limited to ACE2 protein expressions.
Retinal vascular occlusion in pregnancy: three case reports and a review of the literature
Authors: Jürgens L. , Yaici R. , Schnitzler C. M. , Fleitmann A. K. , Roth M. , Schröder K. , Guthoff R.
Published: April 2022

Background

Retinal arterial occlusive events in young patients are rare. However, because of physiological multifactorial adaptations during pregnancy, retinal vascular occlusive disease may occur spontaneously. In addition, a patent foramen ovale is a risk factor for an ischemic thromboembolic event. Since fluorescein angiography, a central tool in the evaluation of these occlusions, should be avoided during pregnancy, optical coherence tomography angiography, a novel technique, offers a good opportunity for visualizing vascular perfusion of retinal tissue.

Case presentation

Here we present a case series of three patients (Caucasian, nonsmoker) who visited our clinic owing to acute visual impairment and central scotoma. Using regular optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography, retinal vascular occlusions were detected, thus initiating the evaluation of systemic risk factors. We report two patients (30 and 32 years old) who developed cilioretinal artery occlusion but whose etiology differed: one was of thromboembolic origin associated with patent foramen ovale, while the other was caused by hemodynamic blockade secondary to central retinal vein occlusion. In both cases, optical coherence tomography angiography revealed reperfusion of the cilioretinal artery occlusion. However, transient ischemia led to retinal atrophy after a few weeks. In the third patient (32 years old), 8 weeks after onset of scotoma, optical coherence tomography angiography revealed atrophy of the middle layers and impaired perfusion in the deep capillary plexus, and thus a paracentral acute middle maculopathy was diagnosed. All patients regained normal visual acuity and had otherwise uncomplicated pregnancies, and laboratory blood tests did not reveal any defects or alterations.

Conclusions

As shown here, optical coherence tomography angiography enables risk-free imaging of retinal vessel perfusion during pregnancy. Together with regular optical coherence tomography, it allows one to predict functional outcome according to the existing retinal occlusion-related atrophy.
LncRNA LYPLAL1-AS1 rejuvenates human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell senescence via transcriptional MIRLET7B inactivation
Authors: Yang Yanlei , Liu Suying , He Chengmei , Lv Taibiao , Zeng Liuting , Zhang Fengchun , Chen Hua , Zhao Robert Chunhua
Published: April 2022

Background

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) senescence is a phenotype of aging. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as potential key regulators of senescence. However, the role of lncRNAs in MSC senescence remains largely unknown.

Results

We performed transcriptome analysis in senescent human adipose-derived MSCs (hADSCs) and identified that the lncRNA LYPLAL1 antisense RNA1 (LYPLAL1-AS1) was significantly downregulated in senescent hADSCs. LYPLAL1-AS1 expression in peripheral blood was lower in middle-aged healthy donors than in young adult donors, and correlated negatively with age. Knockdown of LYPLAL1-AS1 accelerated hADSC senescence, while LYPLAL1-AS1 overexpression attenuated it. Chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP) sequencing indicated that LYPLAL1-AS1 bound to the MIRLET7B promoter region and suppressed its transcription activity, as demonstrated by dual-luciferase assay. miR-let-7b, the transcript of MIRLET7B, was upregulated during hADSC senescence and was regulated by LYPLAL1-AS1. Furthermore, miR-let-7b mimics promoted hADSC senescence, while the inhibitors repressed it. Finally, LYPLAL1-AS1 overexpression reversed miR-let-7b-induced hADSC senescence.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that LYPLAL1-AS1 rejuvenates hADSCs through the transcriptional inhibition of MIRLET7B. Our work provides new insights into the mechanism of MSC senescence and indicates lncRNA LYPLAL1-AS1 and miR-let-7b as potential therapeutic targets in aging.
Research on geometric algebra-based robust adaptive filtering algorithms in wireless communication systems
Authors: Wang Rui , Wang Yi , Li Yanping , Cao Wenming
Published: April 2022

Noise and interference are the two most common and basic problems in wireless communication systems. The noise in wireless communication channels has the characteristics of randomness and impulsivity, so the performance of adaptive filtering algorithms based on geometric algebra (GA) and second-order statistics is greatly reduced in the wireless communication systems. In order to improve the performance of adaptive filtering algorithms in wireless communication systems, this paper proposes two novel GA-based adaptive filtering algorithms, which are deduced from the robust algorithms based on the minimum error entropy (MEE) criterion and the joint criterion (MSEMEE) of the MEE and the mean square error (MSE) with the help of GA theory. The noise interference in wireless communication is modeled by $$\alpha$$
α
-stable distribution which is in good agreement with the actual data in this paper. Simulation results show that for the mean square deviation (MSD) learning curve, the GA-based MEE (GA-MEE) algorithm has faster convergence rate and better steady-state accuracy compared to the GA-based maximum correntropy criterion algorithm (GA-MCC) under the same generalized signal-to-noise ratio (GSNR). The GA-MEE algorithm reduces the convergence rate, but improves the steady-state accuracy by 10–15 dB compared to the adaptive filtering algorithms based on GA and second-order statistics. For GA-based MSEMEE (GA-MSEMEE) algorithm, when GA-MSEMEE and the adaptive filtering algorithms based on GA and second-order statistics keep the same convergence rate, its steady-state accuracy is improved by 10–15 dB, and when GA-MSEMEE and GA-MEE maintain approximately steady-state accuracy, its convergence rate is improved by nearly 100 iterations. In addition, when the algorithms are applied to noise cancellation, the average recovery error of the two proposed algorithms is 7 points lower than that of other GA-based adaptive filtering algorithms. The results validate the effectiveness and superiority of the GA-MEE and GA-MSEMEE algorithms in the $$\alpha$$
α
-stable noise environment, providing new methods to deal with multi-channel interference in wireless networks.
Clinical 3D modeling to guide pediatric cardiothoracic surgery and intervention using 3D printed anatomic models, computer aided design and virtual reality
Authors: Ghosh Reena M. , Jolley Matthew A. , Mascio Christopher E. , Chen Jonathan M. , Fuller Stephanie , Rome Jonathan J. , Silvestro Elizabeth , Whitehead Kevin K.
Published: April 2022

Background

Surgical and catheter-based interventions for congenital heart disease require precise understanding of complex anatomy. The use of three-dimensional (3D) printing and virtual reality to enhance visuospatial understanding has been well documented, but integration of these methods into routine clinical practice has not been well described. We review the growth and development of a clinical 3D modeling service to inform procedural planning within a high-volume pediatric heart center.

Methods

Clinical 3D modeling was performed using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) or computed tomography (CT) derived data. Image segmentation and post-processing was performed using FDA-approved software. Patient-specific anatomy was visualized using 3D printed models, digital flat screen models and virtual reality. Surgical repair options were digitally designed using proprietary and open-source computer aided design (CAD) based modeling tools.

Results

From 2018 to 2020 there were 112 individual 3D modeling cases performed, 16 for educational purposes and 96 clinically utilized for procedural planning. Over the 3-year period, demand for clinical modeling tripled and in 2020, 3D modeling was requested in more than one-quarter of STAT category 3, 4 and 5 cases. The most common indications for modeling were complex biventricular repair (n = 30, 31%) and repair of multiple ventricular septal defects (VSD) (n = 11, 12%).

Conclusions

Using a multidisciplinary approach, clinical application of 3D modeling can be seamlessly integrated into pre-procedural care for patients with congenital heart disease. Rapid expansion and increased demand for utilization of these tools within a high-volume center demonstrate the high value conferred on these techniques by surgeons and interventionalists alike.
Factors Influencing Telemedicine Use at a Northern New England Cancer Center During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mackwood Matthew B. , Tosteson Tor D. , Alford-Teaster Jennifer A. , Curtis Kevin M. , Lowry Mary L. , Snide Jennifer A. , Zhao Wenyan , Tosteson Anna N.A.
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE:

To characterize the use of telemedicine for oncology care over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic in Northern New England with a focus on factors affecting trends.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective observational study using patient visit data from electronic health records from hematology-oncology and radiation-oncology service lines spanning the local onset of the pandemic from March 18, 2020, through March 31, 2021. This period was subdivided into four phases designated as lockdown, transition, stabilization, and second wave. Generalized linear mixed regression models were used to estimate the effects of patient characteristics on trends for rates of telemedicine use across phases and the effects of visit type on patient satisfaction and postvisit ER or hospital admissions within 2 weeks.

RESULTS:

A total of 19,280 patients with 102,349 visits (13.1% audio-only and 1.4% video) were studied. Patient age (increased use in age < 45 and 85 years and older) and urban residence were associated with higher use of telemedicine, especially after initial lockdown. Recent cancer therapy, ER use, and hospital admissions in the past year were all associated with lower telemedicine utilization across pandemic phases. Provider clinical department corresponded to the largest differences in telemedicine use across all phases. ER and hospital admission rates in the 2 weeks after a telehealth visit were lower than those in in-person visits (0.7% v 1.3% and 1.2% v 2.7% for ER and hospital use, respectively; P < .001). Patient satisfaction did not vary across visit types.

CONCLUSION:

Telemedicine use in oncology during the COVID-19 pandemic varied according to the phase and patient, medical, and health system factors, suggesting opportunities for standardization of care and need for attention to equitable telemedicine access.
Novel Indices of Cognitive Impairment and Incident Cardiovascular Outcomes in the REWIND Trial
Authors: Cukierman-Yaffe Tali , Gerstein Hertzel C , Basile Jan , Bethel M Angelyn , Cardona-Muñoz Ernesto G , Conget Ignacio , Dagenais Gilles , Franek Edward , Hall Stephanie , Hancu Nicolae , Jansky Petr , Lakshmanan Mark , Lanas Fernando , Leiter Lawrence A , Lopez-Jaramillo Patricio , Pirags Valdis , Pogosova Nana , Probstfield Jeffrey , Rao-Melacini Purnima , Ramasundarahettige Chinthanie , Raubenheimer Peter J , Riddle Matthew C , Rydén Lars , Shaw Jonathan E , Sheu Wayne H-H , Temelkova-Kurktschiev Theodora
Published: April 2022

Context

Low cognitive scores are risk factors for cardiovascular outcomes. Whether this relationship is stronger using novel cognitive indices is unknown.

Methods

Participants in the Researching Cardiovascular Events with a Weekly Incretin in Diabetes (REWIND) trial who completed both the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score and Digit Substitution Test (DSST) at baseline (N = 8772) were included. These scores were used to identify participants with baseline substantive cognitive impairment (SCI), defined as a baseline score on either the MoCA or DSST ≥ 1.5 SD below either score’s country-specific mean, or SCI-GM, which was based on a composite index of both scores calculated as their geometric mean (GM), and defined as a score that was ≥ 1.5 SD below their country’s average GM. Relationships between these measures and incident major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and either stroke or death were analyzed.

Results

Compared with 7867 (89.7%) unaffected participants, the 905 (10.3%) participants with baseline SCI had a higher incidence of MACE (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.34; 95% CI 1.11, 1.62; P = 0.003), and stroke or death (unadjusted HR 1.60; 95% CI 1.33, 1.91; P < 0.001). Stronger relationships were noted for SCI-GM and MACE (unadjusted HR 1.61; 95% CI 1.28, 2.01; P < 0.001), and stroke or death (unadjusted HR 1.85; 95% CI 1.50, 2.30; P < 0.001). For SCI-GM but not SCI, all these relationships remained significant in models that adjusted for up to 10 SCI risk factors.

Conclusion

Country-standardized SCI-GM was a strong independent predictor of cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes in the REWIND trial.
Awake Mapping With Transopercular Approach in Right Insular–Centered Low-Grade Gliomas Improves Neurological Outcomes and Return to Work
Authors: Duffau Hugues
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND:

Asleep vs awake surgery for right insula–centered low-grade glioma (LGG) is still debated.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare neurological outcomes and return to work after resection for right insular/paralimbic LGG performed without vs with awake mapping.

METHODS:

A personal surgical experience of right insula–centered LGG was analyzed, by comparing 2 consecutive periods. In the first period (group 1), patients underwent asleep surgery with motor mapping. In the second period (group 2), patients underwent intraoperative awake mapping of movement and cognitive functions.

RESULTS:

This consecutive series included 143 LGGs: 41 in group 1 (1999-2009) and 102 in group 2 (2009-2020). There were no significant difference concerning preoperative clinicoradiological characteristics and histopathology results between both groups. Intraoperative motor mapping was positive in all cases in group 1. In group 2, beyond motor mapping, somatosensory, visuospatial, language, and/or cognitive functions were identified during cortical–subcortical stimulation. Postoperatively, 3 patients experienced a long-lasting deterioration with 2 hemiparesis due to deep stroke (1.3%) and 1 severe depressive syndrome, all of them in group 1 vs none in group 2 (P = .022). The rate of RTW was 81.5% in group 1 vs 95.5% in group 2 (P = .016). The tumor volume and extent of resection did not significantly differ across both groups.

CONCLUSION:

This is the first study comparing asleep vs awake surgery for right insula–centered LGG. Despite similar extent of resection, functional outcomes were significantly better in awake patients by avoiding permanent neurological impairment and by increasing RTW. These results support the mapping of higher-order functions during awake procedure.
Vps68 cooperates with ESCRT-III in intraluminal vesicle formation
Authors: Alsleben Sören , Kölling Ralf
Published: April 2022

The endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT)-III mediates budding and abscission of intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) into multivesicular endosomes. To further define the role of the yeast ESCRT-III-associated protein Mos10 (also known as Vps60) in ILV formation, we screened for new interaction partners by using stable isotope labeling of amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) and mass spectrometry. Here, we focused on the newly identified interaction partner Vps68. Our data suggest that Vps68 cooperates with ESCRT-III in ILV formation. The deletion of VPS68 caused a sorting defect similar to that of the SNF7 deletion strain when the cargo load was high. The composition of ESCRT-III was altered, the level of core components was higher and the level of associated proteins was lower in the VPS68 deletion strain. Our data further indicate that at some point in the functional cycle of ESCRT-III, Snf7 could be replaced by Mos10. Vps68 has an unusual membrane topology. Two of its potential membrane helices are amphipathic helices that localize to the luminal side of the endosomal membrane. Based on this membrane topology, we propose that Vps68 and ESCRT-III cooperate in the abscission step by weakening the luminal and cytosolic leaflets of the bilayer at the abscission site.
Assessment of fear, anxiety, obsession and functional impairment due to COVID-19 amongst health-care workers and trainees: A cross-sectional study in Nepal
Authors: Atreya Alok , Nepal Samata , Menezes Ritesh G , Shurjeel Qazi , Qazi Sana , Ram Muskaan Doulat , Usman Muhammad Shariq , Ghimire Sristi , Marhatta Anu , Islam Md Nazmul , Sapkota Arbin Dev , Garbuja Chandra Kumari
Published: April 2022

Background:

The emergence of the COVID-19 epidemic threw the world into turmoil. The medical community bore the brunt of the pandemic's toll. Long work hours, and a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) and social support all had an influence on mental health.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among Lumbini Medical College Teaching Hospital students and employees in Palpa, Nepal. Data entailing their demographic details, pre-existing comorbidities, or death in the family due to COVID-19 was collected using a self-administered survey. In addition, the level of fear, anxiety, obsession, and functional impairment due to COVID-19 was recorded using previously validated respective scales.

Results:

In total, 403 health-care workers and trainees participated in our study. The mean age of the study participants was 23±4 years, and more than half of them (n=262, 65%) were females. A significant association was found between fear score with age (p-value=0.04), gender (p-value <0.01) and occupation (p-value<0.001). The participants suffering from chronic diseases (p-value=0.36), were not found to be significantly obsessed with COVID-19. Age (p-value=0.34), was not found to be significantly associated with higher anxiety levels. Nursing students suffered from a significantly greater functional impairment than other health-care professionals (mean rank score=269.15, p-value < 0.001). A moderately positive correlation was observed between fear, anxiety, obsession, and functional impairment scales.

Conclusion:

This study revealed various socio-demographic characteristics as risk factors for psychological stress in the people related to the health-care profession of Nepal during the COVID-19 pandemic. A viable answer to this quandary might be adequate psychosocial intervention by health-care authorities, increased social support, and the introduction of better mental health management measures for the front-line health-care workers.
Case Report: Glans penile necrosis in a patient with SARS-CoV-2 and leprosy infection
Authors: Ismy Jufriady , Khalilullah Said Alfin , Bahagianto Aditya Fajar
Published: April 2022

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection was firstly identified in China and has been declared a global pandemic. Several serious extrapulmonary manifestations due to SARS-CoV-2 infection have also been reported and associated with hypercoagulability thrombotic vasculopathy. In addition, cases of Mycobacterium-leprae infection have also been known associated with blood coagulation abnormality.

Methods: Here, we report a 56-year-old male with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) with concomitant leprosy infection with manifestation of glans penile necrosis, presented to the emergency department with acute penile pain. This case is unique because no occlusion blood flow to the penile was observed in the radiographic imaging. We described the potential pathophysiology in this case through a literature review.

Results: The patient received treatment according to the COVID-19 protocol and was given low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) therapy for 4 days. During the follow up, the clinical and functional condition of the penis showed significant improvement.

Conclusions: Microthrombus involvement, platelet abnormalities and impaired hemostasis due to SARS-CoV-2 and leprosy co-infection are the hypothesis in this case report.
An unusual infective endocarditis case presenting as meningitis in a young male with recent dental work
Authors: Zur Michelle , Magge Anil , Nadadur Srinivas , Rasheed Ameer
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Infective endocarditis manifests in a variety of clinical presentations. Here, we present a case of infective endocarditis with uncommon presentation, unusual risk factors and rapidly progressing course that is important for clinicians to be aware of.
Case: A 39-year-old healthy man presented for altered mental status, fever, and diffuse petechial rash. Ceftriaxone, vancomycin, and steroids were started for likely meningococcal meningitis. Blood cultures grew Staphylococcus aureus. His condition worsened with multiple complications. Transthoracic echocardiograms were negative for vegetations, but transesophageal echocardiogram finally showed a large aortic valve vegetation and aortic root abscess. Patient underwent cardiothoracic surgery and was successfully discharged home.
Discussion: A high index of suspicion is required to quickly diagnosis IE. A detailed physical examination is paramount for correct diagnosis. TEE is superior to bedside TTE in such cases. IE can be complicated with intracardiac abscesses, septic shock, and presence of SAH.
Key Words: Endocarditis, meningitis, petechial rash
Role of the surfactant in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 infections
Authors: Guevara Nehemias , Sotello David
Published: April 2022

This article reviews the role of the surfactant in the physiopathology and development of the pulmonary disease (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 which is responsible for the ongoing pandemic that started in early 2020.  This virus has capacity to modify the
components of surfactant, and this increases its replication and dissemination. Given the important role surfactant has in antiviral host defenses and lung physiology, surfactant has been studied in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, much more research is needed to understand the role of the surfactant in the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 and its potential use in treatment. 
 
Key words: Surfactant, COVID 19, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), pathogenesis, treatment.
Heparin-induced spontaneous intramural hematoma of the colon leading to small bowel obstruction
Authors: Rahesh Jasmin , Harris Michelle , Ciubuc John , Al-Sukhni Layan , Nazim Muhammad , Murray Richard , Soliman Basem
Published: April 2022

Spontaneous intramural hematoma of the colon is very rare and is typically induced by anticoagulant therapy, bleeding diathesis, or abdominal trauma. The symptoms are nonspecific and can vary from mild, crampy abdominal pain to hemorrhagic shock. The duodenum and small bowel are the most common sites of involvement. Spontaneous intramural colonic hematoma is a relatively rare cause of small bowel obstruction, only seen in 1 out of 2500 hospitalized patients with a history of anticoagulant use. We present a rare case of spontaneous colonic intramural hematoma leading to full thickness bowel lumen compromise resulting in small bowel obstruction. Additionally, this patient presented with secondary polycythemia due to chronic hypoxemia with no prior history of anticoagulant use before hospital admission and heparin drip use.
An Iterated Dual Substitution Approach for Binary Integer Programming Problems Under the Min-Max Regret Criterion
Authors: Wu Wei , Iori Manuel , Martello Silvano , Yagiura Mutsunori
Published: April 2022

We consider binary integer programming problems with the min-max regret objective function under interval objective coefficients. We propose a heuristic framework, the iterated dual substitution (iDS) algorithm, which iteratively invokes a dual substitution heuristic and excludes from the search space any solution already checked in previous iterations. In iDS, we use a best scenario–based lemma to improve performance. We apply iDS to four typical combinatorial optimization problems: the knapsack problem, the multidimensional knapsack problem, the generalized assignment problem, and the set covering problem. For the multidimensional knapsack problem, we compare the iDS approach with two algorithms widely used for problems with the min-max regret criterion: a fixed-scenario approach, and a branch-and-cut approach. The results of computational experiments on a broad set of benchmark instances show that the proposed iDS approach performs best on most tested instances. For the knapsack problem, the generalized assignment problem, and the set covering problem, we compare iDS with state-of-the-art results. The iDS algorithm successfully updates best-known records for a number of benchmark instances.

Summary of Contribution: This paper proposes a heuristic framework for binary integer programming (BIP) problems with the min-max regret objective function under interval objective coefficients. We selected four representative NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems: the knapsack problem, the multidimensional knapsack problem, the set covering problem, and the generalized assignment problem. We show the effectiveness and efficiency of the approach by comparing with state-of-the-art results.
Ethical Use of Web-based Welfare Technology for Caring Elderly People Who Live Alone in Korea: A Case Study
Authors: Choi Soyun , Kim Kyungsook , Kamyod Chayapol , Kim Cheong Ghil
Published: April 2022

This study examined ethical ways to use welfare technology in a situation where the demand for non-face-to-face welfare services using Cloud based healthcare systems had increased rapidly in caring for elderly people who live alone. Through focus group interviews with social workers related to the care of elderly people who live alone, in-depth interviews were conducted on the current situation, problems, ethical issues, and development directions arising in the implementation of welfare technology. The main areas of interest were focused on improving safety in caring them using IoT technology and enhancing emotional support in preventing lonely deaths using companion robot and AI speaker. Issues such as the need for individualization, client-centeredness, privacy, self-determination, competence, informed consent, right to know, convenience, and advocacy were identified as important ethical considerations related to use of welfare technology. The research results suggested that various stakeholders should participate in the development of ethical indicators and welfare technology for the ethical use of welfare technology.
Risk of malignancy in thyroid nodules with indeterminate (THY3f) cytology
Authors: de Jong MC , McNamara J , Winter L , Roskell D , Khan S , Mihai R
Published: April 2022

Background

Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is an integral part of thyroid nodule assessment. Nodules with an indeterminate cytology (THY3a–f) require formal histological assessment to confirm benign or malignant pathology. This study aimed to provide data for an evidence-based approach for management of patients with THY3f nodules.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients who had a thyroid FNAC reported as suspicious of follicular neoplasm (THY3f) or showing atypia (THY3a) were identified, and clinical, operative and outcomes data were analysed.

Results

Between 2018 and 2020, 200 patients (167F:33M, median age 51 years (range:18–86 years)) had a THY3f cytology. Most presented with a palpable nodule (n=104; 68.4%). Overall, 152 (76.0%;130F:23M) underwent surgery and 31 (20.4%) were found to have a thyroid carcinoma (22 follicular carcinomas, 7 papillary carcinomas, 1 medullary thyroid carcinoma and 1 metastatic renal carcinoma). An additional incidental carcinoma (size: 0.7–13mm) was found in seven (4.6%). Among those with cancer, a completion thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine treatment was indicated in nine (<6% of the entire cohort). Previously suggested risk factors for malignancy, eg male gender, large tumour size (>4cm) or age, were not found to be associated with increased risk. During the same period, THY3a cytology was reported in 53 patients, of whom 29 underwent diagnostic surgery and 4 patients were found to have a thyroid cancer (follicular, n=3 and medullary, n=1).

Conclusion

One in five patients with features suspicious of a follicular neoplasm (THY3f) has a thyroid carcinoma. This risk is much lower for THY3a. This study reinforces the current recommendation for thyroid surgery in all patients with a reliable THY3f cytology, as no further stratifying risk factors could be identified.
Optical spectrum augmentation for machine learning powered spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Kim Inho , Gwak Seungho , Bae Yoonsung , Jo Taeyong
Published: April 2022

As structures of semiconductors become more complex and finer, the importance of an accurate measurement system has emerged. Previous studies have suggested various methodologies to improve the accuracy. However, since multiple measuring instruments are used in mass production, repeatability and reproducibility are as important as the accuracy of the values produced by predictive models. In this study, we adopted a data augmentation approach that minimizes the physical difference between multiple measuring instruments by using the domain knowledge of the spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) field. By modeling the photodetector misalignment as polynomials and taking into account random noise, we proposed stochastic polynomial wavelength calibration (s-PWC) which can improve the percentage of the gage repeatability and reproducibility (Gage R&R) value. In experiments, the proposed methodology was applied to train the nanostructure prediction model of a three-dimensional vertical NAND Flash memories with industrial data sets. The performance improvements before and after applying the method were evaluated. Gaussian noise augmentation (GNA) and polynomial wavelength calibration (PWC) methodologies devised based on previous studies were also evaluated for relative comparison. As a result of conducting the experiments under conditions similar to the actual production environment, the average value of the percentage of Gage R&R decreased from 10.23% to 6.3% when applying the proposed method, while the GNA and PWC methodologies reduced the values to 10.01% and 7.62%, respectively. There were no significant changes in the values of coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE) when applying the three methods based on the data augmentation approach. In other words, applying s-PWC ensures that the predictive model produces consistent values for the same sample when it needs to infer data obtained from multiple measuring instruments, while maintaining R2 and RMSE. Future research on data augmentation techniques by modeling differences between other physical components might extend the explanations of the methodologies to improve R2 and RMSE of predictive models. We expect this study could provide guidelines for improving the performance of inferential models based on machine learning and SE in mass production environments.
Laser reflectance feature assisted accurate extrinsic calibration for non-repetitive scanning LiDAR and camera systems
Authors: Lai Zhengchao , Wang Yue , Guo Shangwei , Meng Xiantong , Li Jun , Li Wenhao , Han Shaokun
Published: April 2022

Non-repetitive scanning Light Detection And Ranging(LiDAR)-Camera systems are commonly used in autonomous navigation industries, benefiting from their low-cost and high-perception characteristics. However, due to the irregular scanning pattern of LiDAR, feature extraction on point cloud encounters the problem of non-uniformity distribution of density and reflectance intensity, accurate extrinsic calibration remains a challenging task. To solve this problem, this paper presented an open-source calibration method using only a printed chessboard. We designed a two-stage coarse-to-fine pipeline for 3D corner extraction. Firstly, a Gaussian Mixture Model(GMM)-based intensity cluster approach is proposed to adaptively identify point segments in different color blocks of the chessboard. Secondly, a novel Iterative Lowest-cost Pose(ILP) algorithm is designed to fit the chessboard grid and refine the 3D corner iteratively. This scheme is unique for turning the corner feature extraction problem into a grid align problem. After the corresponding 3D-2D points are solved, by applying the PnP(Perspective-n-Point) method, along with nonlinear-optimization refinement, the extrinsic parameters are obtained. Extensive simulation and real-world experimental results show that our method achieved subpixel-level precision in terms of reprojection error. The comparison demonstrated that the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method outperformed existing methods.
High-performance organic upconversion device with 12% photon to photon conversion efficiency at 980 nm and bio-imaging application in near-infrared region
Authors: Zhang Yuqing , He Zeyu , Du Xiaoyang , Han Jiayue , Lin Hui , Zheng Caijun , Wang Jun , Yang Gang , Tao Silu
Published: April 2022

We demonstrated an organic upconversion device (UCD) successfully converted input NIR light (850–1310 nm) into 524 nm green emission. The UCD under 980 nm light irradiation exhibits a high photon to photon conversion efficiency of 12%. In addition, the linear dynamic range reaches 72.1 dB and the maximum on/off ratio of luminance reaches 4.4×104, which guarantee the clarity of imaging from 850 to 1310 nm. The UCD in this work has the characteristics of high efficiency and long wavelengths detection, and it makes some senses for long wavelengths NIR bio-imaging in further researches.
1120-channel OAM-MDM-WDM transmission over a 100-km single-span ring-core fiber using low-complexity 4×4 MIMO equalization
Authors: Liu Junyi , Lin Zhenrui , Zhu He , Shen Lei , Mo Shuqi , Li Zhenhua , Zhang Jingxing , Zhang Junwei , Lan Xiaobo , Liu Jie , Yu Siyuan
Published: April 2022

A successful transmission of 14 multiplexed orbital angular momentum (OAM) channels each carrying 80 wavelengths over a 100-km single-span ring-core fiber (RCF) is experimentally demonstrated. Each transmission channel is modulated by a 20-GBaud quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK) signal, achieving a record spectral-efficiency-distance product of 1870 (bit/s/Hz)·km for the single-core RCF based mode division multiplexing (MDM) transmissions. In addition, only low-complexity 2×2 or 4×4 multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) equalization with time-domain equalization tap number no more than 25 is required to deal with the crosstalk among the highly degenerate intra-MG modes at the receiving end of the demonstrated OAM-MDM-WDM system, showing great potential in large-capacity and relatively long-distance MDM transmission with low digital signal processing (DSP) complexity.