bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of oxytocin massage using oxybelt on self efficacy and breastmilk production among postnatal mother: A quasi experimental study
Authors: Lismidiati Wiwin , Santi Neni Fidya , Widyawati Widyawati
Published: July 2022

Background: Oxytocin hormone is a determinant factor in breastfeeding process. Oxytocin reflex can be stimulated by oxytocin massage. Oxybelt was designed to provide automatic oxytocin massage to postnatal mother. The aim of this study was to identify the effect of oxytocin massage with an oxybelt on self-efficacy and breastmilk production among postnatal mothers.Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study using post design only with control group conducted in one of Public Hospital in Central Java, Indonesia, between November and December 2016. There were 60 mothers recruited by purposive sampling method and divided to control and intervention group. Thirty mothers in the control group used usual oxytocin massage (without additional divice). On the other hand, 30 mothers in the intervention group used oxybelt massage. All mothers were enrolled in three days observation.The effectiveness of these methods were indicated by mother’s self efficacy and breastmilk production.Self Efficacy of postnatal mothers was measured by Breastfeeding Self Efficacy –Short Form and the breast milk productions represented by neonatal’s weight gain, urinary and stool frequencies, sleep duration, and feeding satiety, were assessed using questionnaire. Result: The average score of mother’s self efficacy before and after in the intervention group are 53.20 and 58.13, consecutively. Meanwhile in the control group,it was 49.83 and 56, consecutively.The effect of oxybelt on the breast milk production in the intervention group was shown on neonatal’s higher post feed weight gain, higher number of urination and stools passed per day, longer duration of sleep after breastfeeding, and more satiety than on neonatal in the control group.Conclusion: Statistically, there was no significant difference between control and intervention group in self efficacy outcome,but clinically postnatal mothers in intervention group showed their breastfeeding self efficacy better than control group.Oxybelt massage was effective in improving breastmilk production, thus the oxybelt message can be recommended and applied for all breastfeeding mother.Trial Registration: The study was approved by the Ethical Commision, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia (IRB number: KE/FK/01/EC/2016) Written informed consent was obtained from each mother before participation.
Investigation of Microplastic Pollution in the Sediment and Commercial Fish Species of Gemlik Bay (Marmara Sea) by Microscopic and Spectroscopic Methods
Authors: Yücedağ Elif , Mülayim Ayşegül , Gündüz Serda Kecel
Published: July 2022

Currently, the microplastic pollution is a common phenomenon in the wold wide. Microplastic density has enhanced and accumulated over decades in the aquatic ecosystems and caused many physiological problems in living organisms. Also, toxicity of microplastics increases by providing a surface area to the other polutants. In this study, we aimed to evaluate and characterize the microplastic pollution in the sediment and commercial fish species in the Gemlik Bay, Marmara Sea. Our results showed that the highest accumulation of microplastics in the sediment is at the station in the Gemport Harbor (9733.3 pieces.kg-1) and the lowest accumulation is at the Kurşunlu offshore (3333.3 pieces.kg-1). On the other hand, the highest microplastic accumulation per individual was in the gills of Synapturichthys kleinii (Risso, 1827) (14.5 pieces.ind-1) and the lowest in Diplodus annularis (Linnaeus, 1758) (0.33 pieces.ind-1). The highest accumulation was indicated (8.75 pieces.ind-1) in the gastrointestinal tract of Chelidonichthys lucerna (Linnaeus, 1758), but the lowest accumulation is in that of D. annularis (0.88 pieces.ind-1) species. The fiber-type particles were the most determined microplastics in sediment and fish samples. Micro-Raman Spectrometer was revealed that Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polypropylene (PP) were dominant in the sediment, and polyoxymethylene (POM) and polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU) polymers were dominant in fish species. Our study showed that more intense microplastic pollution were determined in the Gemlik Bay then the other locations of Marmara Sea. Also our results suggested that there was a pollution pressure on the ecosystem and that the requirement of controlling the ports and discharge waters underlined.
Optical Characteristics of the Skin with Dark Circles Using Pump-Probe Imaging
Authors: Hou Yikang , Yang Xiaonan , Huang Lvping , Qi Zuoliang , Xiao Ran
Published: July 2022

SignificancePump-probe imaging was first used for quantitative analysis of melanin in dark circles’ skin to improve the ability to diagnose and treat dark circles on human skin.AimThis study aimed to compare the distribution characteristics in melanin of lower eyelid skin tissues and to determine whether pump-probe imaging has potential for the classification of dark circles in vivo. ApproachSpecimens obtained from 15 patients undergoing blepharoplasty were examined using pump-probe imaging. Furthermore, adjacent slices were respectively treated with hematoxylin–eosin (HE) and ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) staining for cross-references. Subsequently, the melanin content index (MCI) and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) were quantitatively analyzed by the pump-probe imaging.ResultsThe distribution of melanin granules in the pump-probe image and FeSO4 staining was consistent. Meanwhile, the tissues of the skin with dark circles and normal skin demonstrated significant differences in MCI and MFI. These differences can be used to distinguish the skin with dark circles from the normal skin.ConclusionsNoninvasive pump-probe imaging can distinguish the skin with dark circles from the normal skin, and be used to noninvasively evaluate clinical treatment and track the progress of dark circles or other pigmentation diseases.
Advance Care Planning of Patients Undergoing High-Risk Surgery: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Yamamoto Kanako , Suzuki Miho
Published: July 2022

Background
Many patients undergoing high-risk surgery receive critical care after surgery, yet there is a risk that their condition may deteriorate. Therefore, patients are advised to engage in advance care planning (ACP) by selecting treatment preferences in preparation for potential complications or adverse outcomes. The aim of this research was to clarify the concept of ACP for patients undergoing high-risk surgery.
Methods
The Walker & Avant’s approach to concept analysis was used. The reviewed literature was sourced from PubMed, EMBASE, Ichushi-Web, and CiNii databases as well as guidelines and books. The search was conducted by using keywords that were a combination of the following A, B, and C terms: A, advance care planning, advance directive, or living will; B, critical care or intensive care unit; and C, perioperative.
Results
Five attributes of ACP were extracted: the promise of appropriate treatment, definition of life-prolonging treatment, customization of life-saving care, expression of treatment inclinations and discretion, and continuous plan revision and transition. In addition, two antecedents were extracted: the recognition of expected risks and need for anticipatory decision-making. The three consequences were: respect for autonomy, satisfaction with the decision-making process, and improvement in the quality of care. ACP is characterized by anticipatory decision-making regarding the risks faced by patients. In addition, in the event of a sudden “turn for the worse,” necessary life-saving treatment is guaranteed, and the patient documents their wishes for treatment as well as anxieties and fears that help a medical professional or surrogate decision-maker to select life-prolonging treatment in the event of a complication.
Conclusions
ACP focuses on the quality of life and care rather than determining end-of-life care. The development of this concept contributes to an assessment of the usefulness of ACP support, which can lead to improved approaches to help patients recover over a short period.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with Hepatitis C: A cross-sectional study using data from the Puerto Rico National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System Persons Who Inject Drugs Cycle 5 2018
Authors: Colón-López Vivian , Alvelo-Fernández Paola M. , Centeno-Alvarado Nadia , Salas Ivony Y. Agudelo , Colón Yadira Rolón , Martínez María Pabón , Rodríguez-Lebrón Jorge L. , Reyes-Pulliza Juan C.
Published: July 2022

Background: People Who Inject Drugs (PWID) are at a higher risk of acquiring bloodborne infections. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in People Who Inject Drugs (PWID) and identify correlates and risk factors using data from the Puerto Rico National HIV Behavioral System, PWID cycle 5 conducted in 2018.Methods: A total of 502 San Juan Metropolitan Statistical Area participants were recruited through Respondent Driven Sampling method. Sociodemographic, health-related, and behavioral characteristics were assessed. Detection of HCV antibodies was completed after the face-to-face survey. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed using STATA 17™. Results: The prevalence of HCV was 76.5% (95%CI: 70.8%-81.4%). Adjusted multivariate logistic regression models showed that frequent speedball injectors and knowing the HCV serostatus of the last sharing partner were significantly more associated with HCV infection (ORa = 4.17; 95% CI: 1.40-12.42; ORa = 4.49; 95% CI: 1.43-14.09, respectively).Conclusions: A high prevalence of HCV infection in PWID was observed in this sample, validating the continuing call for local action for public health and prevention strategies.
TADOX ® Technology for Open Drains and surface water rejuvenation: Making Habitats Sustainable
Authors: Bahadur Nupur , Bhargava Nipun , Sarkar Shyamal Kumar , Dhawan Vibha
Published: July 2022

Untreated sewage and domestic wastewater flowing through open drains is a huge problem faced by many developing and underdeveloped countries, which poses severe environmental, public health and occupational health hazards. Open drains find route to surface water bodies mainly due to absence of dedicated conveyance of wastewater to centralized or decentralized wastewater treatment facilities. Hence, there is an urgent need for onsite treatment of open drains. In this regard, TADOX® (TERI Advanced Oxidation) Technology from TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) assumes significance as it provides end-to-end treatment together with small footprint and higher efficiency. It utilizes UV/ TiO2 photocatalysis at the secondary stage of wastewater treatment in an indigenously developed technology. This paper presents a case study of an open drain passing through TERI campus, which when treated with TADOX® Technology, improved physico-chemical and microbiological parameters and degraded some micropollutants. The open drain which could not even meet the Class E of Water Quality Criteria laid down by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Government of India in its untreated form, attained Class A Water Quality Criteria after end-to-end TADOX® Treatment in 5h. It thus opens the possibility of treating open drains and TADOX® as a promising decentralized wastewater treatment (DWWT) technology to rejuvenate surface water bodies, enhancing safe reuse, thereby making habitats sustainable. Thus, such an on-site treatment approach not only helps in achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, but also contributes towards achieving SDG 3, 11 and 15.
Anisometropia in Children in Shandong, China: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Jing Xu , Yuanyuan Hu , Xiuyan Zhang , Zihang Xu , Yi Qu , Tailiang Lv , Jike Song , Hongsheng Bi
Published: July 2022

Purpose
To determine the characteristics of anisometropia in children.
Methods
A total of 1474 children (4–15 years old) from 12 schools of Guanxian county (Shandong, China) were enrolled between December 2018 and June 2020 through cluster sampling. The changes of differences in spherical equivalent refraction (SER), axial length (AL) in different anisometropia, and the increases of SER, AL in new-onset anisometropia, non-anisometropia were evaluated over 18 months.
Results
Among 1474 children, 1347 (91.4%) children had a full set of data at the first visit. The prevalence of SER anisometropia was 8.5% at the first visit, and increased to 15.1% at the second visit (χ2 = 27.077, P < 0.001). Among children with SER anisometropia (n = 110), 25.45% (28/110) experienced an increase in anisometropia ≥ 0.5 D, whereas 20.91% (23/110) experienced a decrease in anisometropia ≥ 0.5 D, and 53.64% (59/110) with anisometropia were stable. For L eyes, the increase of SER was greater in the new-onset anisometropia than that in the non-anisometropia (P < 0.05); for H eyes, the increases of SER in the two groups were not significantly different (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
The prevalence of anisometropia increased over time. Nearly half of children with anisometropia were unstable. The unilaterally greater rate of SER increase in children could be associated with the development of anisometropia.
Molecular mapping of drought responsive QTLs during reproductive stage of rice using a GBS (Genotyping by sequencing) based SNP linkage map
Authors: Roy Nabarun , Verma Rahul Kumar , Modi Mahendra Kumar
Published: July 2022

The reproductive stage is the most important critical stage in rice where water is needed for the formation of seeds. Water scarcity in this situation drastically reduces yield which in turn hampers farmers’ effort towards agriculture. Traditional landraces do have resistant genes inside them against several abiotic and biotic stresses which can act as valuable donors to produce new gene combinations. A high-density SNP based genetic map was constructed by Genotyping by sequencing (GBS) technique using F7 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population developed from Banglami x Ranjit to identify tightly linked markers associated with QTLs. The total map length was 1306.424 cM which had an average inter-marker distance of 0.281 cM. A total of 42 QTLs were identified under both reproductive stage drought stress (RS) and non stress (NS) conditions for sixteen different yield and its component traits which explained a phenotypic variance (PVE) of 1.95-13.36 %. Four QTLs explained a PVE ≥ 10% which denotes they are major QTLs. Analysis of the genes present within the QTL regions revealed the presence of 6 candidate genes which were differentially expressed under stress condition. These genes and QTLs will be helpful for marker-assisted pyramiding to improve drought tolerance in rice.
STING mediates nuclear PD-L1 targeting-induced senescence in cancer cells
Authors: Shin Jeon-Soo
Published: July 2022

Immune checkpoint molecule programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is overexpressed in cancer cells and imparts resistance to cancer therapy. Although membrane PD-L1 has been targeted for cancer immune therapy, nuclear PD-L1 was reported to confer cancer resistance. Therefore, it is important to regulate the nuclear PD-L1. The mechanisms underlying the therapeutic efficacy of PD-L1 targeting have not been well established. Cellular senescence has been considered as a pivotal mechanism to prevent cancer progression, and recently, PD-L1 inhibition was shown to be involved in cancer cell senescence. However, the relevance of PD-L1 targeting-induced senescence and the role of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) has not been reported. Therefore, we aimed to identify the role of PD-L1 in cancer progression and how it regulates cancer prevention.In this study, we found that PD-L1 depletion induced senescence via strong induction of STING expression in mouse melanoma B16-F10 and colon cancer CT26 cells, and in human melanoma A375 and lung cancer A549 cells. Interestingly, nuclear PD-L1 silencing increased STING promoter activity, implying that PD-L1 negatively regulates STING expression via transcriptional modulation. Furthermore, we showed that PD-L1 binds to the STING promoter region, indicating that PD-L1 directly controls STING expression to promote cancer growth. In addition, when we combined PD-L1 silencing with the senescence-inducing chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin, the effect of PD-L1-targeting was even more powerful. Overall, our findings can contribute to the understanding of role of PD-L1 in cancer therapy by elucidating a novel mechanism for PD-L1 targeting in cancer cells.
Objective Analysis of Facial Bone Computed Tomography Images Using Curvature Measurement
Authors: Kim Jeenam , Yoo Jung Hwan , Choi Seung Hoon , Ko Kwang Yeon , Choi Hyung Jin , Lee Ki Hyun , Kim Hyung Seok , Lee Myung Chul
Published: July 2022

The human facial skeleton consists of multiple segments, and causes difficulty during analytic processes. We developed image analysis software to quantify the amount of injury and validate the smooth curvature of the surface after facial bone reduction surgery. Three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) images of facial bone were obtained from 40 patients who had undergone open reduction surgery to treat unilateral zygomaticomaxillary fractures. Analytic software was developed based on the discrete curvature of a triangular mesh model. The discrete curvature values were compared before and after surgery using two landmarks. For the inferior orbital rim, the weighted average of curvature changed from 0.543±0.034 to 0.458±0.042. For the anterior maxilla, the weighted average of curvature changed from 0.596±0.02 to 0.481±0.031, showing a significant decrement (P<0.05). The curvature was further compared with the unaffected side using the Bray–Curtis similarity index (BCSI). The BCSI of the inferior orbital rim changed from 0.802±0.041 to 0.904±0.015, and that for the anterior maxilla changed from 0.797±0.029 to 0.84±0.025, demonstrating increased similarity (P<0.05). In computational biology, adequate analytic software is crucial. The newly developed software demonstrated significant differentiation between pre- and postoperative curvature values. Modification of current formulas and software will lead to further advancements.
Setup accuracy and calculated setup margins for surface guided radiotherapy (SGRT) of target volumes of the head and neck, thorax, abdomen, and pelvis
Authors: Rudat Volker , Shi Yanyan , Zhao Ruping , Xu Shuyin , Yu Wei
Published: July 2022

The goal of the study was to evaluate the inter- and intrafractional patient setup accuracy of target volumes located in the head and neck, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic regions when using AlignRT, by comparing it with that of laser alignment using patient skin marks, and to calculate the corresponding setup margins.A total of 2303 radiotherapy fractions of 183 patients were analyzed. All patients received daily kilovoltage cone-beam computed tomography scans (kV-CBCT) for online verification. Since opening of our radiotherapy department in 2019 until October 2021, the initial patient setup was performed using laser alignment with patient skin marks, and since November 2021 we started using AlignRT. The setup accuracy was measured by the six degrees of freedom (6DOF) corrections based on the kV-CBCT. The corresponding setup margins were calculated using the van Herk formula. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate the impact of multiple factors on the setup accuracy.The interfractional patient setup accuracy was significantly better using AlignRT compared to laser alignment with skin marks. The mean three-dimensional vector of the translational setup deviation of tumors located in the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis using AlignRT was 3.6 mm (95% confidence interval 3.3 mm to 3.9 mm) and 4.5 mm using laser alignment with skin marks (95% confidence interval 3.9 mm to 5.2 mm; p = 0.001). Calculation of setup margins for the combined inter- and intrafractional setup error revealed similar setup margins using AlignRT and kV-CBCT once a week compared to laser alignment with skin marks and kV-CBCT every other day. Furthermore, comparable setup margins were found for open-face thermoplastic masks with AlignRT compared to closed-face thermoplastic masks with laser alignment and mask marks.Surface guided radiotherapy (SGRT) opens the possibility to reduce the number of CBCTs while maintaining sufficient setup accuracy. The advantage is a reduction of imaging dose and overall treatment time. Open-face thermoplastic masks may be used instead of closed-face thermoplastic masks to increase the patient's comfort.
Making predictions under hypothetical interventions: a case study from the PREDICT-CVD cohort in New Zealand primary care
Authors: Lin Lijing , Poppe Katrina , Wood Angela , Martin Glen , Peek Niels , Sperrin Matthew
Published: July 2022

Background
Most existing clinical prediction models do not allow predictions under hypothetical interventions. Such predictions allow predicted risk under different proposed strategies to be compared, which is useful to support clinical decision making. We aimed to compare methodological approaches for predicting individual level cardiovascular risk under three hypothetical interventions: smoking cessation, reducing blood pressure, and reducing cholesterol.
Methods
We used data from the PREDICT prospective cohort study in New Zealand to calculate cardiovascular risk in a primary care setting. We compared three strategies to estimate absolute risk under hypothetical interventions: (a) conditioning on hypothetical interventions in non-causal models; (b) integrating existing prediction models with causal effects estimated using observational causal inference methods; and (c) integrating existing prediction models with causal effects reported in published literature.
Results
The median absolute cardiovascular risk among smokers was 3.9%; our approaches predicted that smoking cessation reduced this to a median between 2.4% and 2.8%, depending on estimation methods. For reducing blood pressure, the proposed approaches estimated a reduction of absolute risk from a median of 4.9% to a median between 3.1–4.5%. Reducing cholesterol was estimated to reduce median absolute risk from 3.1% to between 1.9% and 2.8%.
Conclusions
Estimated absolute risk reductions based on non-causal methods were very different to those based on causal methods, and there was also substantial variation in estimates within the causal methods. Researchers wishing to estimate hypothetical risk should be explicit about their causal modelling assumptions and conduct sensitivity analysis by considering a range of possible approaches.
The complex of miRNA2861 and cell-penetrating, dimeric a-helical peptide accelerates the osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Nam So Hee , Lee Yan , Yang Hee-Jin , Park Sung Bae
Published: July 2022

Background: The restoration of the functional ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) using epigenetic modification is very promising for patients with weak osteogenesis ability. This study focused on the acceleration of osteogenesis from MSCs using microRNA(miRNA) 2861 and a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), cLK.Methods: We performed MSCs penetration test of complex between the LK peptides and miRNA 2861. Three different experiments were performed to investigate the effects of miRNA 2861 on osteogenic differentiation in MSCs: 1) intensity of alizarin red staining, which reflects the status of mineralization by osteoblasts; 2) gene expression related to osteoblast differentiation; and 3) confirmation of corresponding protein translation for comparison with RNA expression levels.Results: We found that cLK effectively delivered miRNA 2861 into the cytoplasm of human MSCs and accelerated osteogenic differentiation from MSCs, as well as mineralization.Conclusion: The complex of miRNA 2861 with LK may have a positive effect on the osteogenic differentiation from MSCs and mineralization. Therapies using miRNAs combined with cLK may be good candidates for the augmentation of osteogenesis in patients.
Vibration characteristics of multi-dimensional isolator based on 4-PUU parallel mechanism with joint clearance
Authors: Gao Xiang , Niu Junchuan , He Lei , Qin Zhen , Wang Zhonglong
Published: July 2022

For isolating multi-dimensional vibration experienced by vehicle-mounted precise facility, a multi-dimensional vibration isolator based on parallel mechanism with joint clearance is designed and analyzed. The main thrust of the work is establishing kinematic and dynamic equations of the isolator, and exploring vibration isolation capability with joint clearance. Firstly, type synthesis of the parallel mechanism with three translations and one rotation is performed. The kinematic and dynamic equations of the isolator with joint clearance are deduced. Subsequently, vibration isolation performance is simulated with different values of joint clearance under harmonic and stochastic excitations in time and frequency domain respectively. The simulating results demonstrate the proposed isolator with joint clearance inhibit multi-dimensional vibration effectively. The first order resonance peak is sensitive to the increment of joint clearance. Finally, the proposed multi-dimensional vibration isolator is fabricated. The vibration isolation experiment is conducted. Through experimental results, the isolator reduces multi-dimensional vibration effectively in time and frequency domain significantly. The vibration isolation capability degenerates as the counterweight of moving platform increasing.
Low voltage in small left atrium in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation: left atrium diameter alone is not always a predictor of atrial fibrosis or ablation prognosis Low voltage in small left atrium in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Li Xiaoqin , Yin Chun , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Hao , Li Xiaoli , Wu Wenli , Ran Boli , Xiang YongJing , Fu Biao
Published: July 2022

BackgroundThe diameter of the left atrium (LA) is a major index of prediction for LA fibrosis and ablation outcome in atrial fibrillation (AF). However, an unenlarged LA may not be associated with good results in some cases of AF ablation.ObjectiveExploring the characteristics and ablation prognosis of the patients with fibrotic but unenlarged LAMethodsPatients with persistent fibrillation who underwent catheter ablation in our center were analyzed in this retrospective study. Comprehensive low voltage mapped in LA is considered a fibrotic LA. The patients with fibrotic but unenlarged LA, normal LA, and fibrotic tissue with enlarged LA were included in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. We compared clinical features, electrophysiological findings, immediate ablation results, and follow-up outcomes in three groups.ResultsWe enrolled 9 patients in Group A, 38 in Group B, and 12 in Group C. There were greater proportions of women, low ventricular rates, and high CHA2DS2-VASC scores in the patients with fibrotic LA (Groups A and C). At the end of procedure, all of the patients saw restored sinus rhythm, and the rate of sinus rhythm was lower in Groups A and C than in Group B. Atrial-ventricular block and very-early-stage recurrence were more common in Group A. Sinus rhythm maintenance and LA reversion were rarer in Group A than in Group B or C.ConclusionsA fibrotic but unenlarged LA was more likely to be seen in female with high CHADS2VA2S score. It indicated a poor prognosis for AF ablation.
Gut dysregulation drives bone damage in tibial dyschondroplasia
by disrupting glucose homeostasis
Authors: huang shucheng , Xu Tingting , Chen Pan , Zhang Chaodong , Shaukat Aftab , Lin Luxi , Yue Ke , Cao Qinqin , Tong Xishuai , liu Kaili , He Yanfeng , xie Jingfei , liu Fang , zhang Cai , zhang Huaiyong
Published: July 2022

Tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) with multiple incentives is a metabolic skeletal disease that occurs in fast-growing broilers. Perturbations in the gut microbiota (GM) have been shown to affect bone homeostasis and the mechanisms by which GM modulates bone metabolism in TD broilers remain unrevealed. Here, by using a broiler model of TD, we noted elevated blood glucose (GLU) levels in TD broilers, accompanied by altered pancreatic structure and its secretory function, and damaged intestinal barrier function. Importantly, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) of gut microbes from normal donors could rehabilitate the GM and depress the elevation of GLU in TD broilers, high GLU level is a predisposing cause of bone disease, suggesting that GM dysbiosis-mediated hyperglycemia might involve in bone regulation. 16s rRNA gene sequencing and short-chain fatty acids analysis revealed that the significantly increased genera Blautia and Coprococcus-derived metabolite butyric acid regulated GLU levels in TD broilers by binding to GPR109A on the pancreas. Tibial studies showed reduced expression of vascular regulatory factors (including PI3K, AKT and VEFGA) based on transcriptional analysis and inhibited vascular distribution contributed to non-vascularization of cartilage in the proximal tibial growth plate in TD broilers with elevated GLU. Additionally, the total flavonoids of Rhizoma drynariae treatment further validated the improvement of bone homeostasis in TD broilers by regulating GLU levels originating from regulating GM and improving intestinal and pancreatic function. These findings clarify the critical role of GM-mediated GLU levels via the gut-pancreas axis in bone homeostasis in TD chickens.
COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy: views and vaccination uptake rates in pregnancy, a mixed methods analysis from the Born In Wales study
Authors: Mhereeg Mohamed , Jones Hope , Kennedy Jonathan , Seaborne Mike , Parker Michael , Kennedy Natasha , Beeson Sarah , Akbari Ashley , Zuccolo Luisa , Davies Alisha , Brophy Sinead
Published: July 2022

Background
Vaccine hesitancy amongst pregnant women has been found to be a concern during past epidemics. This study aimed to 1) estimate COVID-19 vaccination rates among pregnant women in Wales and their association with age, ethnicity, and area of deprivation, using electronic health records (EHR) linkage, and 2) explore pregnant women’s views on receiving the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy using data from a survey recruiting via social media (Facebook, Twitter), through midwives, and posters in hospitals (Born in Wales Cohort).
Methods
This was a mixed-methods study utilising routinely collected linked data from the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) (Objective 1) and the Born-In-Wales Birth Cohort participants (Objective 2). Survival analysis was utilised to examine and compare the length of time to vaccination uptake in pregnancy, and variation in uptake by; age, ethnicity, and deprivation area was examined using hazard ratios (HR) from Cox regression. Codebook thematic analysis was used to generate themes from an open-ended question on the survey.
Results
Population-level data linkage (objective 1): Within the population cohort, 32.7% (n = 8,203) were vaccinated (at least one dose of the vaccine) during pregnancy, 34.1% (n = 8,572) remained unvaccinated throughout follow-up period, and 33.2% (n = 8,336) received the vaccine postpartum. Younger women (< 30 years) were less likely to have the vaccine and those living in areas of high deprivation were also less likely to have the vaccine (HR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.95). Asian and other ethnic groups were 1.12 and 1.18 times more likely to have the vaccine in pregnancy compared to women of White ethnicity (HR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.25) and (HR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.37) respectively. Survey responses (objective 2): 69% of participants stated that they would be happy to have the vaccine during pregnancy (n = 207). The remainder, 31%, indicated that they would not have the vaccine during pregnancy (n = 94). Reasons for having the vaccine included protecting self and baby, perceived risk level, and receipt of sufficient evidence and advice. Reasons for vaccine refusal included lack of research about long-term outcomes for the baby, anxiety about vaccines, inconsistent advice/information, and preference to wait until after the pregnancy.
Conclusion
Potentially only 1 in 3 pregnant women would have the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy, even though 2 in 3 reported they would have the vaccination, thus it is critical to develop tailored strategies to increase its acceptance rate and to decrease vaccine hesitancy. A targeted approach to vaccinations may be required for groups such as younger people and those living in higher deprivation level areas.
Transcriptomic analysis of Staphylococcus equorum KM1031 from the high- salt fermented seafood jeotgal under chloramphenicol, erythromycin and lincomycin stresses
Authors: Heo Sojeong , Kim Tao , Na Hong-Eun , Lee Gawon , Lee Jong-Hoon , Jeong Do-Won
Published: July 2022

Staphylococcus equorum strain KM1031 is resistant to chloramphenicol, erythromycin and lincomycin. To shed light on the genetic factors underlying these antibiotic resistances, we determined the global gene expression profile of S. equorum KM1031 using RNA sequencing. During chloramphenicol, erythromycin and lincomycin treatment, 8.3% (183/2,336), 16.0% (354/2,336), and 2.9% (63/2,336) of S. equorum KM1031 genes exhibited significant differences in expression, respectively. These three antibiotics upregulated genes related to efflux and downregulated genes related to transporters. Antibiotic treatment also upregulated osmoprotectant-related genes involved in salt tolerance. To identify specific genes functionally related to antibiotic resistance, we compared the genome of strain KM1031 with those of three S. equorum strains that are sensitive to these three antibiotics. We identified three genes of particular interest: an antibiotic biosynthesis monooxygenase gene (AWC34_RS01805) related to chloramphenicol resistance, an antibiotic ABC transporter ATP-binding protein gene (msr, AWC34_RS11115) related to erythromycin resistance, and a lincosamide nucleotydyltransferase gene (AWC34_RS13300) related to lincomycin resistance. These genes were upregulated in response to the corresponding antibiotic; in particular, msr was upregulated more than fourfold by erythromycin treatment. Finally, the results of RNA sequencing were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. This transcriptomic analysis provides genetic evidence regarding antibiotic stress responses of S. equorum strain KM1031.
Effects of infusion tubing line lengths and syringe sizes on infusion system compliance: An experimental study using a syringe-type infusion pump at low flow rate
Authors: Lee Eun Kyung , Hong Kwan Young , Kim Youyoung , Choi Dan Chung , Min Jeong-Jin
Published: July 2022

Ideally, the flow delivery of an infusion system is proportional only to the rate of mechanical actuation of the syringe pump plunger. However, in the real world, overall infusion system compliance can vary with components such as tubing lines and syringes. With higher compliance, there may be greater chances of flow irregularity. In this experimental study, we investigated the effects of lengths of infusion lines and syringe sizes on the compliance of syringe pumps with low flow rate (2 ml·hr-1). In the first experiment, infusion system compliance was measured in various settings by occlusion-release. As the infusion tubing length and size of syringe increased, the time to reach each pressure was delayed and the infusion system compliance increased. The contributions to system compliance from syringes were significantly greater compared to those of extended infusion lines. In the second pre-occlusion alarm experiment, the occlusion alarm was delayed by 69.67 ± 3.98 minutes for the 50-ml syringe with a 560 cm infusion line set-up, requiring more attention when using a highly compliant infusion system. Thus, the performance of the syringe pump is affected by loaded syringe size and the length of the infusion line by changing the system compliance.
Directly imaging excited states-resolved coherent nuclear motions of water with picometer-femtosecond precision
Authors: Wang Chuncheng , zhenzhen wang , Hu Xiaoqing , Zhou Shengpeng , Yu Xitao , Yang Yizhang , Zhao Banchi , Shu Zheng , Wang Zhenpeng , Li Xiaokai , Wu Yong , Wang Jianguo , Ding Dajun
Published: July 2022

Real-time imaging of transient structure of the electronic excited state is fundamentally critical to understand and control ultrafast physics and chemistry. However, the coherent nuclear motion in a specific excited state is yet to be captured accurately. Here, snapshots of the vibrational wave-packets of the excited (A) and ground states (X) of D$\rm_{2}$O$^{+}$ were acquired simultaneously with sub-10 picometer and few-femtosecond spatiotemporal precision, using a novel approach based on electron recollision-assisted Coulomb explosion. We visualised large amplitude bending and stretching motions for the A state, which significantly increased $\rm \theta _{DOD}$ and R$\rm_{OD}$ by approximately 50$^\circ$ and 10 pm, respectively, within 8 fs after initial tunneling ionization. In contrast, for the X state, only the prominant stretching motion is initialised with a bond extension of 7 pm within 5 fs. Another higher excited state with an asymmetric folding structure is experimentally established, which can be efficiently populated via the excitation of electron recollision.
We demonstrate the remarkable dynamical vibrational fingerprints of these excite states and pave the way towards to make a movie of excited state-resolved ultrafast molecular dynamics and light-induced chemical reaction.
Comparative study of the thermogravimetric properties of plantation-grown and natural stands of Khaya ivorensis (African Mahogany) from Ghana
Authors: Appiah-Kubi Emmanuel
Published: July 2022

Khaya ivorensis (African Mahogany) is a valuable tropical timber species well known for its high-quality product finishes. Its properties are well known but its thermogravimetric properties have not been studied especially the plantation-grown ones. Most plantation-grown and fast-growing timber species are known to have inferior properties to naturally grown ones. The thermogravimetric properties of plantation-grown Khaya ivorensis (African Mahogany) and its natural stands were analyzed in this study. The study was conducted to compare the behaviour of both natural and plantation trees under heating. Three (3) trees each of plantation-grown and natural stands of Khaya ivorensis were used for the study. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was conducted using a Perkin Elmer thermal analyzer, Netzsch TG209 F1 IRIS. Approximately 15 mg sample was used for the analysis at a heating rate of 20oC/min under nitrogen with a 20 ml/min flow rate. The analysis was also conducted under an oxygen purge. The density of the trees was determined according to ASTM D2395-07. Results of the study indicated a relatively higher onset temperature of 347.9oC for plantation-grown trees whilst natural trees had a mean onset temperature of 344oC. Mass loss (TG) was again relatively higher in planation trees with a mean TG of 71% with an inflection temperature of 357oC, whilst natural trees had a mean TG of 67.6% with an inflection temperature of 353.9oC. The rate and pattern of degradation were similar for all the trees under the different heating conditions even though natural trees degraded at relatively lower temperatures.
Twist-tunable polaritonic nanoresonators in a van der Waals crystal
Authors: Nikitin Alexey , Matveeva Olga , Tresguerres-Mata Ana I. F. , Kirtaev Roman , Voronin Kirill , Taboada-Gutiérrez Javier , Lanza-García Christian , Duan Jiahua , Martín-Sánchez Javier , Volkov Valentin , Alonso-González Pablo
Published: July 2022

Optical nanoresonators are fundamental building blocks in a number of nanotechnology applications (e.g. in spectroscopy) due to their ability to efficiently confine light at the nanoscale. Recently, nanoresonators based on the excitation of phonon polaritons (PhPs) – light coupled to lattice vibrations – in polar crystals (e.g. SiC, or h-BN) have attracted much attention due to their strong field confinement, high quality factors, and potential to enhance the photonic density of states at mid-infrared (IR) frequencies. Here, we go one step further by introducing PhPs nanoresonators that not only exhibit these extraordinary properties but also incorporate a new degree of freedom - twist tuning, i.e. the possibility to be spectrally controlled by a simple rotation. To that end, we both take advantage of the low-loss in-plane hyperbolic propagation of PhPs in the van der Waals crystal α-MoO3, and realize a dielectric engineering of a pristine α-MoO3 slab placed on top of metal ribbon grating, which preserves the high quality of the polaritonic resonances. By simple rotating the α-MoO3 slab in the plane (from 0 to 45º), we demonstrate via far- and near-field measurements that the narrow polaritonic resonances (with quality factors Q up to 200) can be tuned in a broad range (up to 32 cm-1, i.e up to ~ 6 times its full width at half maximum, FWHM ~ 5 cm-1). Our results open the door to the development of tunable low-loss nanotechnologies at IR frequencies with application in sensing, emission or photodetection
C-band Operating Plasmonic Sensor with High Q-factor/Figure of Merit (FOM) Based on Silicon Nano-Ring
Authors: Cicek Kenan , Boybay Muhammed S. , Topkaya Ramazan , Agarwal Anuradha M.
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we take advantage of the high refractive index property of silicon to design a practical and sensitive plasmonic sensor on a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) platform. It has been shown that by employing a concentric silicon nano-ring with a hexagonal plasmonic cavity, a label-free refractive index sensor with sensitivity as high as 1124 nm/RIU, a Q-factor of 307 and an FOM of 234 RIU− 1 can be achieved with optimal structural parameters. In addition, the resonance mode of the hexagonal cavity with Si nano-ring (HCS) sensor can be adjusted to operate in the c-band, which is a highly desirable wavelength range in terms of compatibility with devices in PIC technology.
Improving the performance of DSSCs by modulating the electron donor and electron acceptor of dye molecules with the DTPBT group as π-bridge
Authors: Zhao Shihan , Liu Qian , Cao Jiameng
Published: July 2022

When the search for abundant and economically viable green energy sources is a pressing task of our time, the study of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) as a photovoltaic conversion device is particularly important. Thus, herein, to improve the performance of dye molecules with large planar dithienopyrrolobenzothiadiazole (DTPBT) as a π-bridge, the electron donor (D) and electron acceptor (A) of H1 molecule were replaced with phenanthroimidazole and rhodanine 3-acetic acid, respectively, resulting in the new molecules Q1 and Q2. The photovoltaic properties of these three molecules were investigated comprehensively, the effects of D and A changes on each performance parameter of the dye molecules were explored, and the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of DSSCs based on these dye molecules was predicted using a rational model. The results show that the selected positions of these dye molecules have similar planar distortions and that these distortions can inhibit the aggregation of dye molecules on the semiconductor surface. In addition, rhodanine 3-acetic acid as the A of the Q2 increased the light-trapping ability of the dye molecule because of the apparent red-shift of the absorption spectrum and the increase in the intensity of the photoresponse. The excited-state charge transfer data indicate that the Q2 has a unidirectional charge transfer excitation characteristic, which is favorable for generating effective photocurrents. Also, base on the suitable theoretical model, we predict a PCE of 6.15% for DSSCs based on the Q2, which is 1.3 times higher than the 4.73% for the H1. Therefore, for using large DTPBT groups as π-bridges of dye molecules, the use of suitable A will be more favorable for electron transfer and overall performance improvement, and the potential of the group can be more easily demonstrated.
Numerical simulation on flow and heat transfer in twin roll strip casting and rolling molten pool with side dams vibrating
Authors: Guo Chunyu , Xue Yuan , Yan Fusheng , Hu Xianzhong
Published: July 2022

A three-dimensional numerical model was established to predict the liquid level, the temperature field, the flow field, the turbulent kinetic energy, the outlet temperature and the liquid fraction in the twin roll strip casting and rolling molten pool with side dams vibrating. The numerical simulations were also conducted to compare the flow and heat transfer characteristics under different vibration frequencies and different casting temperatures. The results showed that the heat transfer was enhanced, the mixing of solutes is optimized, the strip outlet temperatures were homogenized, the kiss lines were higher, and the rolling intervals were extended as the frequency increased. Also, excessive casting temperature would cause some unexpected problems such as liquid steel leakage and unformed strips, and also make the height of kiss line uneven. Lower casting temperature would also make the strip outlet temperature more uniform and make the kiss lines higher. Through these analyses, a new approach to advancing the development of twin roll strip casting and rolling is proposed.
Prediction of Spontaneous Basal Ganglia Hematoma Expansion; Clinical Data Versus Radiology Signs Versus Radiomics; A Pilot Study
Authors: Rezaei Ali , Godwin Ryan , Prattipati Veeranjaneyulu , Tanwar Manoj , Singhal Aparna , Sotoudeh Mahsan , Sotoudeh Houman
Published: July 2022

Prediction the hematoma expansion (HE) of spontaneous basal ganglia hematoma (SBH) from the first non-contrast CT can improve the patient outcome. This study has been design to compare the performance of “Radiomics analysis”, “radiology signs”, and “clinical-aboratory data” for this task. We collected clinical, demographic, and laboratory from medical records in patients with SBH. CT images reviewed for the presence of radiologic signs, including Black hole, Blend, Swirl, Satellite, and Island signs, which may predict the hematoma expansion. Radiomic features from the SBH on the first brain CT were extracted, and the most predictive features were selected. Different machine learning models were developed based on clinical, laboratory, and radiology signs and selected Radiomic features to predict HE. The dataset used for this analysis included 116 patients with SBH. Among different models and different thresholds to define hematoma expansion (10%, 20%, 25%, 33%, 40%, and 50% volume enlargement thresholds), the Random Forest based on ten selected Radiomic features achieved the best performance (for 25% hematoma enlargement) with AUC of 0.9 on the training dataset and 0.89 on the test dataset. The models based on clinical-laboratory, and radiology signs had deficient performance (AUCs about 0.5–0.6). Base on our findings, Radiomic models outperform the radiology signs, clinical, laboratory, and demographic features to predict the HE. A twenty-five percent increase in the hematoma volume is likely the best threshold to predict HE by machine learning and Radiomics. The rondom forest models are probably the best models for this task.
Low-frequency Sea level changes in the Caspian Sea: long-term and seasonal trends
Authors: Azizpour Jafar , Ghaffari Peygham
Published: July 2022

The analysis of seasonal and long-term changes of the Caspian Sea level examined from historical long time tide gauge data in order to consider the influence of climate factors on sea-level changes in this lake system. The major peak at spectra corresponds to the annual cycle and semiannual oscillations peak is located at next vigorous. Effects of diverse global and regional factors on lake level changes are investigated by signal processing methods. Results show that annual cycle of Siberian High and Volga River discharge have the considerable effects on the Caspian Sea level changes in global and regional scales, respectively. Analyzing of seasonal cycle is revealed that Volga river discharge was significant on sea level fluctuations by one-month lag in northern and central basins and two months delay for southern basin. The long-term cycle results show ascending trend of evaporation in central basin that it is the main factor to decreasing in the Caspian Sea level since 1990s.