bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of proinflammatory mutations in peri-implantitis: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lafuente-Ibáñez de Mendoza Irene , Setien-Olarra Amaia , García-De la Fuente Ana María , Aguirre-Urizar José Manuel , Marichalar-Mendia Xabier
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on the presence of inflammatory polymorphisms in patients with peri-implantitis (PI). PI is the main complication associated to dental implant therapy. Although its main risk factors are history of periodontitis, poor plaque control and lack of regular maintenance, genetic susceptibility could also be a determinant factor for its appearance. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) are small mutations of the DNA that alter the osseointegration of implants. Inflammatory proteins participate in both destruction of the extracellular matrix and reabsorption of the alveolar bone.

Methods

A bibliographical research was made in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science (keywords: “single nucleotide polymorphism”, “polymorphism”, “periimplantitis”, “SNP” and “implant failure”).

Results

There is a statistically significant association of peri-implant bone loss with the homozygotic model of IL-1β (− 511) (OR: 2.255; IC: 1.040–4.889).

Conclusions

Associations between inflammatory polymorphisms and PI must be taken with caution due to the heterogeneous methodological design, sample size and diagnostic criteria of the studies. Thus, more well-designed studies are needed that analyze the relationship between these and more SNP and PI.
Influence of the bone graft materials used for guided bone regeneration on subsequent peri-implant inflammation: an experimental ligature-induced peri-implantitis model in Beagle dogs
Authors: Sato Ryo , Matsuura Takanori , Akizuki Tatsuya , Fukuba Shunsuke , Okada Munehiro , Nohara Kohei , Takeuchi Shunsuke , Hoshi Shu , Ono Wataru , Maruyama Kiichi , Izumi Yuichi , Iwata Takanori
Published: January 2022

Purpose

We aimed to histologically evaluate the influence of bone materials used during guided bone regeneration (GBR) on subsequent peri-implantitis in an experimental ligature-induced peri-implantitis model in beagle dogs.

Methods

Bilateral mandibular premolars (PM2-4) were extracted from six beagle dogs. After 3 months, standardized bone defects (3 mm [mesio-distal width] × 2 mm [bucco-lingual width] × 3 mm [depth]) were created in the experimental group, with simultaneous dental implant placement at the center of the defects. The defects were randomly filled with either autograft (AG) or deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) and covered with a collagen membrane. In the control group, implant fixtures were placed without creating an intrabony defect. After 3 months, a healing abutment was placed. Four weeks later, a 3–0 silk thread was ligated around the implants to induce peri-implantitis. After 4 weeks, the specimens were dissected and histologically examined.

Results

There were no clinical findings of inflammation until silk thread ligation. Four weeks after the onset of peri-implantitis, gingival redness and swelling were seen with mild resorption of the peri-implant bone on dental radiographs. There were no significant differences between the AG, DBBM, and control groups for the following parameters: bone-to-implant contact, distance from the implant shoulder to the base of the bone defect, area of bone defect, and area of new bone.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that peri-implant tissues after GBR using AG and DBBM underwent the same degree of bone resorption by peri-implantitis as the no defect group.
Multiseptate gallbladder coexisting with pancreaticobiliary maljunction treated by laparoscopic cholecystectomy: report of a pediatric case
Authors: Oyachi Noboru , Numano Fuminori , Koizumi Keiichi , Takano Atsushi , Shibusawa Hiroshi
Published: January 2022

Background

A multiseptate gallbladder is a very rare congenital malformation in which the lumen is divided into variously sized multiseptal compartments. The pathogenesis and natural history of this disease remain uncertain. We herein describe a pediatric case of a multiseptate gallbladder with pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM), which was treated by laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Case presentation

A 5-year-old girl was referred to our hospital, because a multiseptate gallbladder had been incidentally detected on abdominal ultrasonography when she presented for transient abdominal pain. Ultrasonography showed hyperechoic septa throughout the lumen of the gallbladder, giving it a honeycomb appearance. The atrophied gallbladder had weak or no contractility. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography performed to detect other coexisting biliary disorders revealed PBM without dilatation of the common bile duct. Although physical examination and laboratory tests revealed no abnormalities, we performed laparoscopic cholecystectomy to prevent cholecystitis and reduce the risk of cancer secondary to the PBM.

Conclusions

In recent pediatric case reports, the indication and timing of cholecystectomy has tended to be determined by the patient’s symptoms and the presence of biliary complications. In the present case, however, the combination of a multiseptate gallbladder and PBM may become problematic in the future. Surgical treatment without delay was appropriate even in this pediatric patient.
Reactions of 3′,5′-di-O-acetyl-2′-deoxyguansoine and 3′,5′-di-O-acetyl-2′-deoxyadenosine to UV light in the presence of uric acid
Authors: Suzuki Toshinori , Takeuchi Miyu , Ozawa-Tamura Atsuko
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Recently, it was revealed that uric acid is a photosensitizer of reactions of nucleosides on irradiation with UV light at wavelengths longer than 300 nm, and two products generated from 2′-deoxycytidine were identified. In the present study, UV reactions of acetylated derivatives of 2′-deoxyguansoine and 2′-deoxyadenosine were conducted and their products were identified.

Findings

Each reaction of 3′,5′-di-O-acetyl-2′-deoxyguansoine or 3′,5′-di-O-acetyl-2′-deoxyadenosine with UV light at wavelengths longer than 300 nm in the presence of uric acid generated several products. The products were separated by HPLC and identified by comparing UV and MS spectra of the products with previously reported values. The major products were spiroiminodihydantoin, imidazolone, and dehydro-iminoallantoin nucleosides for 3′,5′-di-O-acetyl-2′-deoxyguansoine, and an adenine base and a formamidopyrimidine nucleoside for 3′,5′-di-O-acetyl-2′-deoxyadenosine.

Conclusions

If these damages caused by uric acid with sunlight occur in DNA of skin cells, mutations may arise. We should pay attention to the genotoxicity of uric acid in terms of DNA damage to dGuo and dAdo sites mediated by sunlight.
Screening of non-restorative sleep by quantitative EEG
Authors: El-Mekkawy Leqaa , El Salmawy Dina , Basheer Mye A. , Maher Eman , Nada Mona M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Non-restorative sleep is the major cause of excessive daytime sleepiness and causes injures of the central nervous system. The most common cause of Excessive day sleepiness in a clinical setting is obstructive sleep apnea. Sleepiness scales can assess multiple aspects of the sleep and include subjective and objective measures. The present study aim to disclose the capability of quantitative electroencephalography to screen, as well as to know the pathogenesis of non-restorative sleep in patients with excessive day time sleepiness.

Results

Twenty obstructive sleep apnea patients and 20 healthy control subjects were recruited. All patients were subjected to Epworth sleepiness scale and polysomnography. Quantitative electroencephalography and Karolinska sleepiness scale were done before and after sleep for patients as well as controls. The patients group revealed a significant power reduction in delta and alpha bands, comparing before and after sleep records. Interestingly, there was a significant change in delta power in the temporal delta waves power. Yet, the changes were opposite among cases (significant decrease) versus controls (significant increase). In addition, there were significant correlations between sleepiness scales; Epworth sleepiness scale and Karolinska Sleepiness Scale scores, and alpha band results in quantitative electroencephalography.

Conclusion

Quantitative electroencephalography with further research, could provide us with clues to the pathogenesis of EDS and non-restorative sleep accompanying OSA and an objective screening tool.
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in patients with mental illness: strategies to overcome barriers—a review
Authors: Payberah Ebrahim , Payberah Daniel , Sarangi Ashish , Gude Jayasudha
Published: January 2022

Background

People with mental health problems are at particular risk both for infection with COVID-19 and for more severe course of illness. Understanding COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is crucial in promoting vaccine acceptance among people with mental health diagnoses. This review aims to identify the prevalence and discuss factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among the mentally ill population.

Main body

We conducted a detailed literature search and included 15 articles for discussion in this review. Several studies showed varying trends of vaccine hesitancy rates among different countries. Major factors involved in vaccine hesitancy in general include mistrust, misinformation, believing in conspiracy theories, and negative attitudes towards vaccines. It was surprising that none of the studies were focused on vaccine acceptance rates and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy among the mentally ill population. However, studies do show that COVID-19 is associated with worse healthcare outcomes for psychiatric patients, and vaccine hesitancy correlated with a lower likelihood of receiving mental health treatment and vaccinations. Psychiatrists need to address issues among patients who are particularly vulnerable to the fear of vaccines which include anxiety, panic attacks, certain phobias including trypanophobia and agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and certain types of traumas. Psychiatrists need to communicate effectively, show respect, empathy, and deliver accurate and honest information about the vaccines. Motivational interviewing, getting people with mental health illness to organize vaccine campaigns, and involving families with mental health problems may promote vaccine acceptance among this group.

Conclusion

Existing literature on the rates of vaccine hesitancy among people with mental health illness is limited. The mental health illness may increase the risk of hesitancy especially in patients having certain emotional disorders such as anxiety and phobia. More studies addressing vaccine hesitancy rates and factors associated with the mentally ill population need to be done in the future.
Co-cultivation, metal stress and molasses: strategies to improving exopolymeric yield and metal removal efficacy
Authors: Cheah Caleb , Cheow Yuen Lin , Ting Adeline Su Yien
Published: January 2022

This study investigated and compared several improvement strategies to increase the yield and quality of exopolymeric substances (EPS) from Bacillus cereus. This includes co-culturing of B. cereus with Trichoderma asperellum, cultivation in media with metal (Zn) stress and supplementation with molasses. EPS is subsequently extracted from these different cultures and subjected to characterization and metal removal tests in single-metal systems (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Cr). Results indicate that co-cultivation of B. cereus and T. asperellum produced EPS which have attributes differing from single cultivation. These changes were detected via functional group changes using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, as well as the increase in carbohydrate and protein content. However, the interaction of these two microbes were merely additive and did not result in improved EPS yield nor the subsequent metal removal efficacy in comparison to single cultivation (control). By contrast, supplementation of Zn (metal stress with 50 mg L− 1 Zn) improved EPS quality and metal removal, but decreased EPS yield. The application of 1% molasses was the only strategy demonstrating high yield and efficient metal removal. EPS quality and yield (0.45 mg mL− 1) and metal removal efficacy (Cu: 58%, Pb: 98%, Zn: 83%, Cd: 73%, Cr: 96%) were improved significantly. This study showed that among the three improvement strategies (co-cultivation, metal stress, molasses), supplementation with molasses was the most effective as it improved both yield and quality of EPS significantly, suggesting that this approach may be adopted for future production of bulk EPS for up-scaling of wastewater treatment.
Can positron emission tomography–computed tomography-based three target lesions' total lesion glycolysis predict therapeutic response in Hodgkin Lymphoma?
Authors: Ali Hend Yehia , Mohammad Shaimaa Abdelsattar , Ali Ali Hagag , Monib Ahmed Mohamed , Shalaby Mennatallah Hatem
Published: January 2022

Background

Universally maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are used as tools for response assessment in Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) patients. Our objectives are to evaluate the predictive potential and response assessment of total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and metabolic tumor volume (MTV)—maximum three target lesions—as another alternatives and to investigate the correlation between TLG and MTV with LDH.

Results

Both initial SUVmax and TLG were significantly associated with early patient response (p value 0.03, 0.047, respectively). An optimal threshold for SUVmax and TLG less than or equal 19.52, and 158.6, respectively, correlated with better therapeutic response. Initial LDH was moderately correlated with initial values of TLG (rs = 0.4, p value 0.01), MTV (rs = 0.44, p value 0.01) and SUVmax (rs = 0.42, p value 0.01).

Conclusion

TLG in correlation with LDH can be significant prognostic factors of therapeutic response in HL. They can be used for the identification of a subset of HL patients with a better outcome.
Liver injury with COVID-19: laboratory and histopathological outcome—systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mohammed Sherine A. , Eid Khalid M. , Anyiam Felix Emeka , Wadaaallah Hazem , Muhamed Muhamed Ahmed Mahmoud , Morsi Maha Hosni , Dahman Nesrine Ben Hadj
Published: January 2022

Background

The novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been predominantly linked to respiratory distress syndrome, but hepatic injury has also been reported. The mechanism of liver injury is poorly understood.

This review aimed to systematically review the current data through laboratory tests and liver tissue pathology to ascertain the correlation of liver involvement in SARS-CoV-2 infection patients.

Methods

The PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science databases were searched systematically. We included peer-reviewed published papers available online as clinical cases, cohort studies, and retrospective studies, for both in vitro and in vivo human studies. Independent extraction of the data was done by two independent authors.

Results

A total of 15 articles were finally included in the systematic review process and meta-analysis after exclusion of studies that did not meet the eligibility criteria, summarized in a PRISMA flow diagram.

The meta-analysis showed that patients with underlying abnormal liver function and/or histopathological finding had a statistically significant 8.08 times higher odds of severe COVID-19 outcomes when data from the individual studies were pooled (OR 8.08; 95% CI,3.43, 19.03; p = 0.00001). Five of these studies showed histopathological changes on autopsy from cases with severe COVID-19, and in four of these five studies, the histopathology was associated with a history of abnormal liver function after affection with COVID-19.

Short conclusion

The study observed that the severity of COVID-19 was associated with more patients with aberrant liver function tests.
Interplay of serum hepcidin with female sex hormones, metabolic syndrome, and abdominal fat distribution among premenopausal and postmenopausal women
Authors: Matta Ragaa Abdelshaheed , AbdElftah Mohamed Emad , Essawy Mohamed Gaber , Saedii Ahmed Abdelfadel
Published: January 2022

Background and purpose

Hepcidin is the central regulatory molecule of systemic iron homeostasis. Serum ferritin, insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic syndrome (MetS), female sex hormones, and abdominal fat distribution are related to each other and all are linked to menopausal state. Our study was the first to assess the impact of these parameters on hepcidin level among premenopausal women (group I) during the early follicular phase (group I-F) and mid-luteal-phase (group I-L) of the same reproductive cycle and among postmenopausal women (group II). Serum iron parameters, estrogen, progesterone and hepcidin, and plasma insulin were assessed. Abdominal subcutaneous fat (SCF) and peritoneal visceral fat (PVF) thickness were measured by unenhanced- CT. Group I and group II were divided into MetS and non-MetS subgroups.

Results

The entire group II and MetS-stratified subgroups had significant higher hepcidin level than corresponding group I-F and group I-L. Group I-L had significant higher hepcidin than group I-F. Among group I-F, group I-L, and group II, MetS subgroups had higher hepcidin but not hepcidin/ ferritin ratio (H/F) than corresponding non-MetS; and hepcidin had positive correlations with ferritin, insulin, IR, and SCF. In group I-F and group II, hepcidin had positive correlations with estrogen and progesterone; hepcidin levels increase significantly and linearly with increasing number of MetS features; and cut off values of hepcidin for prediction of MetS were 5.8 ≥ and ≥ 10.3 ng/ml respectively. Main contributors to hepcidin were iron and ferritin in all groups, SCF and progesterone in group I-F, and insulin, progesterone, and MetS in group II. H/F ratio was higher in group II.

Conclusion

Postmenopausal state (postMS), MetS, and luteal phase are independently associated with high hepcidin level. Serum iron parameters (iron and ferritin) as main regulators of hepcidin are preserved regardless of menopausal state. Its regulation differs based on menopausal state: IR, MetS, and progesterone in postMS meanwhile abdominal SCF and progesterone in premenopausal states. Despite positive associations of estrogen and progesterone with hepcidin, they do not explain its higher level in postMS. Hepcidin levels linearly increase with number of Mets feature and it had high sensitivity for diagnosis of MetS.
Aerodynamic measures of patients with tracheostomy capping before and after decannulation
Authors: Youssef Gamal , Abdulla Kamal M. , Khalil Sahar S.
Published: January 2022

Background

Gradually stepped decannulation, such as capping with fenestrated tubes or tube downsizing, is likely to prolong the decannulation process. The purpose of the study is to determine the differences in laryngeal aerodynamic measures, expiratory peak flow, and dyspnea index when breathing through the upper airway before and after decannulation. The study recruited sixteen adult patients with a tracheostomy who were fit for decannulation. Measurement of peak flow rate, aerodynamic measures, and dyspnea index has been done at two settings: first during capping and second after decannulation by 2 h using finger support to close the stoma and prevent air leak.

Results

Changes in outcome measures after decannulation revealed a significant increase in peak flow rate, vital capacity, maximum phonation, and phonatory speech pressure level; the glottal resistance significantly decreased after decannulation. The dyspnea severity index scores improved from 22.35 during capping to 13.37 after decannulation.

Conclusions

The results of our study showed that tracheostomy tube capping causes a significant reduction in peak flow and aerodynamic measures which improved after tracheostomy decannulation.
Control of Postoperative Hypotension Using a Closed-Loop System for Norepinephrine Infusion in Patients After Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Desebbe Olivier , Rinehart Joseph , Van der Linden Philippe , Cannesson Maxime , Delannoy Bertrand , Vigneron Marc , Curtil Alain , Hautin Etienne , Vincent Jean-Louis , Duranteau Jacques , Joosten Alexandre
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND:

Vasopressors are a cornerstone for the management of vasodilatory hypotension. Vasopressor infusions are currently adjusted manually to achieve a predefined arterial pressure target. We have developed a closed-loop vasopressor (CLV) controller to help correct hypotension more efficiently during the perioperative period. We tested the hypothesis that patients managed using such a system postcardiac surgery would present less hypotension compared to patients receiving standard management.

METHODS:

A total of 40 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after cardiac surgery were randomized into 2 groups for a 2-hour study period. In all patients, the objective was to maintain mean arterial pressure (MAP) between 65 and 75 mm Hg using norepinephrine. In the CLV group, the norepinephrine infusion was controlled via the CLV system; in the control group, it was adjusted manually by the ICU nurse. Fluid administration was standardized in both groups using an assisted fluid management system linked to an advanced hemodynamic monitoring system. The primary outcome was the percentage of time patients were hypotensive, defined as MAP <65 mm Hg, during the study period.

RESULTS:

Over the 2-hour study period, the percentage of time with hypotension was significantly lower in the CLV group than that in the control group (1.4% [0.9–2.3] vs 12.5% [9.9–24.3]; location difference, −9.8% [95% CI, −5.4 to −15.9]; P < .001). The percentage of time with MAP between 65 and 75 mm Hg was also greater in the CLV group (95% [89–96] vs 66% [59–77]; location difference, 27.6% [95% CI, 34.3–19.0]; P < .001). The percentage of time with an MAP >75 mm Hg (and norepinephrine still being infused) was also significantly lower in patients in the CLV group than that in the control group (3.2% [1.9–5.4] vs 20.6% [8.9–32.5]; location difference, −17% [95% CI, −10 to −24]; P < .001).

The number of norepinephrine infusion rate modifications over the study period was greater in the CLV group than that in the control group (581 [548–597] vs 13 [11–14]; location difference, 568 [578–538]; P < .001). No adverse event occurred during the study period in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Closed-loop control of norepinephrine infusion significantly decreases postoperative hypotension compared to manual control in patients admitted to the ICU after cardiac surgery.
Epidemiology, trend and in-hospital outcome of traumatic spinal injuries due to road traffic accidents
Authors: Algahtany Mubrak A
Published: January 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to provide information on the epidemiology, trend, associated traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) and non-spinal injuries, and risk factors affecting the in-hospital outcome of RTA-related traumatic spinal injury (TSI) over the past decade in Aseer province, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: In this retrospective study, we included all RTA-related traumatic injuries (5797) admitted to ACH from 1st January 2010 to 31 December 2019, from which 810 cases were TSIs. The cases were identified through the hospital database registry.. Descriptive analysis was performed for gender, age, level of spinal injury, admission day, type of care unit, associated injuries, presence of TSCI and discharge category.

Results: TSIs accounted for 13.97% of RTA-related injuries with a predominantly male population. The patients had a mean age of 30.7 years, 46.67 % of victims were between 19 to 30-years old. There was a significant decrease in the number of RTA-related TSIs over the study period. Lumbar and cervical injuries were more prevalent (32.47 and 31.36 %, respectively). Most (73.58 %) TSIs occurred during working days, and 6.54% required critical care admission. Associated non-spinal injuries occurred in 50.25% and TSCI in 6.91% of patients. The in-hospital mortality was 5.18%. The Age, level of spine injury, need for critical care, associated injuries, and TSCI significantly affected the likelihood of improvement.

Conclusion: The latest government initiatives to reduce RTA like speed limits and waring of seat belts have resulted in a concordant decline in TSI incidence with good consistency between police and health registration data

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5288

How to cite this:Algahtany MA. Epidemiology, trend and in-hospital outcome of traumatic spinal injuries due to road traffic accidents. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5288

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Ex-vivo experimental strategies for assessing unconstrained shoulder biomechanics: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Genter Jeremy , Croci Eleonora , Ewald Hannah , Müller Andreas M. , Mündermann Annegret , Baumgartner Daniel
Published: January 2022

Background: Shoulder biomechanics cannot be measured directly in living persons. While different glenohumeral joint simulators have been developed to investigate the role of the glenohumeral muscles in shoulder biomechanics, a standard for these simulators has not been defined. With this scoping review we want to describe available ex-vivo experimental strategies for assessing unconstrained shoulder biomechanics.

Objective: The scoping review aims at identifying methodological and/or experimental studies describing or involving ex-vivo simulators that assess unconstrained shoulder biomechanics and synthesizing their strengths and limitations.

Inclusion criteria: All unconstrained glenohumeral joint simulators published in connection with ex-vivo or mechanical simulation experiments will be included. Studies on glenohumeral simulators with active components to mimic the muscles will be included. We will exclude studies where the experiment is static or the motion is induced through an external guide, e.g., a robotic device.

Methods: We will perform database searching in PubMed, Embase via Elsevier and Web of Science. Two reviewers will independently assess full texts of selected abstracts. Direct backward and forward citation tracking on included articles will be conducted. We will narratively synthesize the results and derive recommendations for designing ex-vivo simulators for assessing unconstrained shoulder biomechanics.
Circulating tumor cells isolated from colorectal cancer patients can form spheroids spontaneously: a small study in Ciptomangunkusumo Hospital, Indonesia
Authors: Abdullah Murdani , Noor Dimas R. , Maulahela Hasan , Aziza Nursyirwan Saskia
Published: January 2022

Background: Circulating Tumor Cells (CTC) are tumor cells that have been separated from the primary site and enter the blood or lymphatic circulation of cancer patients. CTCs are  known to have tumorigenic properties and are  thought to have a relationship with metastasis. One of the tests that can be used to assess tumorigenesis is the spheroid formation test. This study was conducted to determine CTCs’ ability to form spheroids.

Methods: A 1 ml sample of blood was taken from two patients with metastatic colorectal cancer and placed in separate heparin tubes. The CTCs were then isolated using the DirectCTC enrichment kit according to the manufacturer's procedure. A total of 10,000 cells were grown in nuncsphera u plates in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) for three days under standard culture conditions. Spheroid or aggregation was then evaluated using an inverted microscope.

Results: We identified a CTC culture derived from each of the patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, namely CTC ID001 and CTC 002 respectively. CTC ID001 formed spheroids spontaneously while CTC ID002 did not. CTC ID001 appears to aggregate spontaneously and resembles primary tumor cells in their ability to form spheroids.

Conclusions: We observed that CTCs can mimic primary tumors to form spheroids spontaneously, though some CTCs are not able to form spheroids. We suspected that this was related to the tumorigenic nature of CTC in these patients.
Transmission of yellow fever vaccine virus from breast feeding mothers to their infants: reporting of yellow fever virus (YFV) RNA detection in milk specimens
Authors: Hassan Tarteel , Bashir Razan A. , Abdelrahman Dina N. , Madni Hassan , M El Hussein Abdel Rahim , Elkidir Isam M. , Enan Khalid A.
Published: January 2022

Background: Because of yellow fever’s serious impact on health, vaccination is the principal strategy to control the disease. Administration of the yellow fever vaccine to breastfeeding women should be before they complete 9 months post-delivery, in order to prevent transmission of the yellow fever vaccine virus to their infants through breast feeding. This study aimed to confirm whether the excretion of yellow fever vaccine virus is in milk of vaccinated breastfeeding mothers and to confirm the probable transmission to their infants through breast milk.

Methods: Samples were taken as follows: one serum specimen was taken 3-14 days after the date of the vaccination, and breast milk specimens were taken at four different time points between 3-4 days apart. Specimens were obtained from eight nursing mothers, who received the YVF vaccine (17DD). Mothers were asymptomatic before and after the vaccine administration but their infants developed symptoms after administration. Maternal serum samples were tested for YFV specific IgM antibodies through immuno-fluorescent assay (IFA). RNA was extracted from serum and breast milk specimens and YFV RNA screened using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results: In total, five mothers (62.5%) were positive for YFV and two mothers (25%) had YFV RNA in serum. Among milk specimens, YFV RNA was detected during the four different mentioned collection times as follows (positive milk specimens/total milk specimens): 3/8 (37.5 %), 4/6 (66.6%) and 1/4(25%). RNA was completely undetectable in the last collection time.

Conclusions: YFV transmission from mothers to their babies through breast-feeding was highly probable indicated by the temporal relationship to mother’s YF vaccination.
DARLENE – Improving situational awareness of European law enforcement agents through a combination of augmented reality and artificial intelligence solutions
Authors: Apostolakis Konstantinos C. , Dimitriou Nikolaos , Margetis George , Ntoa Stavroula , Tzovaras Dimitrios , Stephanidis Constantine
Published: January 2022

Background: Augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) are highly disruptive technologies that have revolutionised practices in a wide range of domains, including the security sector. Several law enforcement agencies (LEAs) employ AI in their daily operations for forensics and surveillance. AR is also gaining traction in security, particularly with the advent of affordable wearable devices. Equipping police officers with the tools to facilitate an elevated situational awareness (SA) in patrolling and tactical scenarios is expected to improve LEAs’ safety and capacity to deliver crucial blows against terrorist and/or criminal threats.

Methods: In this paper we present DARLENE, an ecosystem incorporating novel AI techniques for activity recognition and pose estimation tasks, combined with a wearable AR framework for visualization of the inferenced results via dynamic content adaptation according to the wearer’s stress level and operational context. The concept has been validated with end-users through co-creation workshops, while the decision-making mechanism for enhancing LEAs’ SA has been assessed with experts. Regarding computer vision components, preliminary tests of the instance segmentation method for humans’ and objects’ detection have been conducted on a subset of videos from the RWF-2000 dataset for violence detection, which have also been used to test a human pose estimation method that has so far exhibited impressive results, constituting the basis of further developments in DARLENE.

Results: Evaluation results highlight that target users are positive towards the adoption of the proposed solution in field operations, and that the SA decision-making mechanism produces highly acceptable outcomes. Evaluation of the computer vision components yielded promising results and identified opportunities for improvement.

Conclusions: This work provides the context of the DARLENE ecosystem and presents the DARLENE architecture, analyses its individual technologies, and demonstrates preliminary results, which are positive both in terms of technological achievements and user acceptance of the proposed solution.
El expediente inquisitorial sobre Juana de Estrada. Una hechicera ante el Santo Oficio de Lima, 1661-1664.
Authors: Urra Jaque Teresa Natalia
Published: January 2022

El siguiente escrito analiza las experiencias personales y grupales de Juana de Estrada. una mujer mestiza, viuda y senil condenada en la Lima del XVII por hechicera, embustera y sortílega. Sus vivencias representan las identidades típicas y comunes de la sociedad estamental limeña. Los conocimientos y prácticas de Juana, poco ortodoxas para las autoridades, permiten reconstruir parte de su biografía e imaginar las cotidianidades que enfrentó
Dependência de smartphone em adolescentes, parte 1: revisão de escopo
Authors: Freitas Bruna Hinnah Borges Martins de , Gaíva Maria Aparecida Munhoz , Bernardino Fabiane Blanco Silva , Jorge Paula Manuela Diogo
Published: January 2022

Face a presença constante dos smartphones na vida dos adolescentes e ao aumento do tempo de tela observado nos últimos anos, este estudo objetivou mapear as evidências disponíveis sobre a dependência de smartphone em adolescentes. Tratase da primeira parte de uma revisão de escopo. Um total de 67 artigos foram publicados entre 2009 e 2019, com um incremento de 31,74 % ao ano. A maioria das pesquisas (n=28; 41,79 %), foram desenvolvidas na Coreia do Sul, pela área de psicologia (n=21; 31,34 %) e pelo método transversal (n=49; 73,13 %). 14 escalas autoaplicáveis foram identificadas para o uso com adolescentes, sendo que, as mais utilizadas foram a Smartphone addiction Proneness Scale e a Smartphone Addiction Scale- Short Version. Grande parte das escalas contempla os domínios: abstinência, tolerância, compulsão e efeito da dependência na vida diária. Conclui-se que a dependência de smartphone é um problema de saúde pública em ascensão no mundo e pode comprometer a saúde dos adolescentes. Tal construto tem sido mensurado por escalas validadas e confiáveis, porém, não foram identificados estudos brasileiros no período investigado. Portanto, faz-se necessário adaptar e validar instrumentos com esta população para melhor compreensão do fenômeno no Brasil.
Dental Implant Impressions: The First Impression Is The Last Impression: Short Communication
Authors: Sikri Dr. Arpit , Sikri Dr. Jyotsana
Published: January 2022

Dental implant is defined as a prosthetic device made of alloplastic material(s) implanted into the oral tissues beneath the mucosal and/or periosteal layer and on or within the bone to provide retention and support for a fixed or removable dental prosthesis; a substance that is placed into and/or on the jaw bone to support a fixed or removable dental prosthesis [Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms (GPT 9)]. Dental implants have been swiftly gaining popularity as a treatment modality of choice in prosthodontics i.e. both fixed and removable. Impression is defined as negative likeness or copy in reverse of the surface of an object; an imprint of the teeth and adjacent structures for use in dentistry (GPT 9). Impressions in implantology is a crucial step and involves a meticulous workflow in achieving the passive fit for the long-term success of the final implant prosthesis. This involves accurately relating and recording the exact replica of the implant analogue or the implant abutment to the other structures in the oral cavity. A plethora of factors determine the accuracy of the implant impressions namely the choice of impression tray, impression material, number of implants, depth, position and angulation of implants and most importantly the technique encountered for recording the impression. This short communication briefly portrays the armamentarium and components used along with the selection of a suitable impression tray, impression material and impression technique devised for the precise impression of the implant for the ultimate success of the final prosthesis.
Nanosecond Q-switched laser with PEDOT: PSS saturable absorber
Authors: Al-Hiti Ahmed Shakir , Yasin Moh , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: January 2022

We demonstrate deployment of the nonlinear saturable absorption property of the organic material poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) for pulse generation in the near-infrared region. The saturable absorber (SA) film was made using a straightforward process of depositing a layer of the PEDOT: PSS material onto a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. The prepared SA was inserted into an erbium-doped fiber laser cavity as a

Q

-switcher to produce laser pulses with a maximum pulse rate of 92.75 kHz, minimum pulse duration of 912 ns, and highest pulse energy of 222.83 nJ. Results showed that PEDOT: PSS/PVA SA could become a promising SA for various laser applications. To our knowledge, this is the first time that PEDOT: PSS/PVA has been utilized as a SA to produce a stable

Q

-switched laser in 1.55 µm.
Tissue-mimicking phantoms for performance evaluation of photoacoustic microscopy systems
Authors: Hsu Hsun-Chia , Wear Keith A. , Joshua Pfefer T. , Vogt William C.
Published: January 2022

Phantom-based performance test methods are critically needed to support development and clinical translation of emerging photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) devices. While phantoms have been recently developed for macroscopic photoacoustic imaging systems, there is an unmet need for well-characterized tissue-mimicking materials (TMMs) and phantoms suitable for evaluating PAM systems. Our objective was to develop and characterize a suitable dermis-mimicking TMM based on polyacrylamide hydrogels and demonstrate its utility for constructing image quality phantoms. TMM formulations were optically characterized over 400–1100 nm using integrating sphere spectrophotometry and acoustically characterized using a pulse through-transmission method over 8–24 MHz with highly confident extrapolation throughout the usable band of the PAM system. This TMM was used to construct a spatial resolution phantom containing gold nanoparticle point targets and a penetration depth phantom containing slanted tungsten filaments and blood-filled tubes. These phantoms were used to characterize performance of a custom-built PAM system. The TMM was found to be broadly tunable and specific formulations were identified to mimic human dermis at an optical wavelength of 570 nm and acoustic frequencies of 10–50 MHz. Imaging results showed that tungsten filaments yielded 1.1–4.2 times greater apparent maximum imaging depth than blood-filled tubes, which may overestimate real-world performance for vascular imaging applications. Nanoparticles were detectable only to depths of 120–200 µm, which may be due to the relatively weaker absorption of single nanoparticles vs. larger targets containing high concentration of hemoglobin. The developed TMMs and phantoms are useful tools to support PAM device characterization and optimization, streamline regulatory decision-making, and accelerate clinical translation.
Narrow-bandpass transparent/diffusing materials using soft scattering based on dispersed refractive index difference
Authors: Zhu Junfeng , Wan Lei , Zhao Chenxi , Liu Weiping , Oki Yuji , Yoshioka Hiroaki
Published: January 2022

An improved random walk scattering model that can be used for soft scattering based on the dispersion of the refractive index difference was developed. This model improves on previous models by introducing a medium thickness parameter and can explain the spectral performance of transparent/diffusive materials with different scatterer concentrations and thicknesses, as well as determine the optimal narrowing conditions for the bandpass spectra by combining Rayleigh-Gans-Debye and Hulst approximation calculations. Guided by the theory, transparent/diffusive media based on CaF2 particles suspended in a PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) matrix were investigated. Disordered micron-sized CaF2 particles with a narrowed particle distribution were obtained by precipitation and centrifugal separation of ultra-pure milled CaF2 particles to remove the fractions smaller than 1 µm and larger than 20 µm, with removal rates of approximately 75% and 100%, respectively. Consequently, a diffuser material with a high (80 wt.%) concentration CaF2 particles dispersed in a low-viscosity PDMS matrix was successfully fabricated, which exhibited an effective transmittance bandwidth as low as 12 nm FWHM (full width at half maximum). Moreover, different bandpass filter diffuser devices with transmission peaks at 248, 257, and 272 nm were obtained by adjusting the PDMS matrix material. In particular, the 257 nm transmission peak filter diffuser exhibited a true narrow bandwidth of 9 nm in an integrated module containing a UV LED (ultraviolet light-emitting diode).
Tailoring standing waves on meta-atom: a facile way to a high-efficiency functional metasurface with spin-selectivity
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Jiafu , Yan Mingbao , Liu Tonghao , Zhu Ruichao , Han Yajuan , Li Yongfeng , Zheng Lin , Qu Shaobo
Published: January 2022

Metasurfaces have provided unprecedented degrees of freedom in
manipulating electromagnetic (EM) waves and have been applied in the
communication field. Growing communication demands require smaller and
more versatile devices. However, there is still a gap in recent
miniaturization versatile research. Here, we propose a design method
to realize an ultrathin multifunctional metasurface by tailoring
standing waves that formed on meta-atom both in longitudinal and
transverse dimensions. Firstly, to guarantee high-efficiency coupling
between incident waves and meta-atom, we place the metallic pattern at
the peak point of longitudinal standing waves which formed by the
interferences between incident and reflected waves via adjusting the
substrate thickness. Then we can realize the diverse functions for
different incident spin states by loading lumped elements at the
standing wave peaks or nodes of the transverse surface currents. For
this proof-of-concept, we demonstrate a spin-selective vortex beam
generation metasurface with an ultrathin thickness
0.144λ0. The design can generate a
vortex beam for right-handed circularly polarized (RHCP) waves with an
efficiency above 80% in 14.0-23.0 GHz while it can achieve high
absorption above 90% for left-handed circularly polarized
(LHCP) waves in 13.8-23.3 GHz. To sum up, this method might help to
design spin-selective metasurfaces with multifunctional integration
and find applications in satellite communication, EM compatibility and
others.
Design of a low-RCS circularly polarized metasurface array using characteristic mode analysis
Authors: Gao Kun , Cao Xiangyu , Gao Jun , Li Tong , Yang Huanhuan , Guo Zexu
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a novel design strategy for a circularly polarized metasurface antenna array that integrates low scattering and well-behaved radiation is proposed. Firstly, based on the Jerusalem cross-shaped patch, a metasurface element with 180° reflection phase difference under orthogonal normal incident waves is designed. The characteristic mode theory is utilized to analyze the metasurface element mode to excite the linear polarization radiation. Then, the metasurface antenna elements are arranged orthogonally in a 2×2 subarray and fed with a 90° phase difference, which achieves high port isolation, better circular polarization radiation and low scattering performance. Finally, the 4×4 array is fabricated and measured, and the good agreement between simulation and measurement verifies the effectiveness of the design method.
Investigations on high-reflective Fiber-Bragg-Gratings in multimode fibers
Authors: Raguse Marius , Klein Sarah , Baer Patrick , Giesberts Martin , Traub Martin , Hoffmann Hans-Dieter
Published: January 2022

Due to the large core diameter and high number of guided modes in fibers with large core diameters, increasing the reflectivity of Fiber-Bragg-Gratings (FBG) in these multimode (MM) fibers is technically challenging. To increase the homogeneity and reflectivity of FBG in MM fibers, we analyze the impact of laser inscription parameters onto the FBG dimensions. Limitations of the processable core volume due to the cylindrical fiber geometry are observed. A new inscription strategy is developed, utilizing the rotational symmetry of the fiber to make a larger core volume accessible. In combination with a chirp of the FBG’s grating period a maximum reflectivity of 61% is archived in a 105 µm core diameter fiber.
Determinants of life satisfaction among Ghanaians aged 15 to 49 years: A further analysis of the 2017/2018 Multiple Cluster Indicator Survey
Authors: Owusu Ansah Kenneth , Dey Nutifafa Eugene Yaw , Adade Abigail Esinam , Agbadi Pascal
Published: January 2022

The inclusion of life satisfaction in government policies as a tracker of the social and economic progress of citizens has been recommended. This has encouraged the scientific investigation of life satisfaction levels of people in tandem with factors responsible for these levels. Only a few studies have attempted to do this in Ghana with mixed findings. This study, therefore, extends previous literature by examining the determinants of life satisfaction among Ghanaians in two ways: a full sample and a gender-stratified sample. We analysed cross-sectional data from the 2017/2018 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey Six (MICS 6). A sample of 20,059 women and men of ages ranging from 15 to 49 years participated in this study. The Cantril’s Self-Anchoring Ladder Life Satisfaction scale was used to capture the life satisfaction of participants alongside relevant sociodemographic questions. About 35% of participants reported they were satisfied in life with males reporting more suffering levels [39.59%; 95% CI:36.38, 42.88] and females more thriving levels [36.41%; 95% CI:35.01, 37.84]. In the full sample multivariable model, gender, age, parity, education, marital status, wealth index, and region of residence were significantly associated with life satisfaction. Gender variations were also found across these associations. These findings collectively provide useful information for policymakers and practitioners to optimize interventions for the Ghanaian population aimed at improving life satisfaction. Evidence from this study also calls on the government of Ghana to begin tracking the life satisfaction of her citizens.