bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factor-based screening compared to universal screening for gestational diabetes mellitus in marginalized Burman and Karen populations on the Thailand-Myanmar border: An observational cohort
Authors: Prüst Janna T. , Brummaier Tobias , Wah Mu , Yee Htay Htay , Win Nyo Nyo , Pimanpanarak Mupawjay , Min Aung Myat , Gilder Mary Ellen , Tun Nay Win , Ilozumba Onaedo , Kabeer Basirudeen Syed Ahamed , Terranegra Annalisa , Nosten François , Lee Sue J. , McGready Rose
Published: April 2022

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) contributes significantly to maternal and neonatal morbidity, but data from marginalized populations remains scarce. This study aims to compare risk-factor-based screening to universal testing for GDM among migrants along the Thailand-Myanmar border.

Methods: From the prospective cohort (September 2016, February 2019), 374 healthy pregnant women completed a 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24-32 weeks gestation. Fasting, one hour and two hour cut-offs were based on Hyperglycaemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes (HAPO trial) criteria and cases were treated. The sensitivity and specificity of risk-factor-based screening criteria was calculated using OGTT as the gold standard. Risk factors included at least one positive finding among 10 criteria, e.g., obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥27.5kg/m2), 1st degree relative with diabetes etc. Adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared by GDM status, and risk factors for GDM were explored.

Results: GDM prevalence was 13.4% (50/374) (95% CI: 10.3-17.2). Risk-factors alone correctly identified 74.0% (37/50) OGTT positive cases: sensitivity 74.0% (59.7-85.4) and specificity 27.8% (3.0-33.0). Burman women accounted for 29.1% of the cohort population, but 38.0% of GDM cases. Percentiles for birthweight (p=0.004), head circumference (p=0.005), and weight-length ratio (p=0.010) were higher in newborns of GDM mothers compared with non-GDM, yet 21.7% (75/346) of newborns in the cohort were small-for-gestational age. In Burman women, overweight/obese BMI was associated with a significantly increased adjusted odds ratio 5.03 (95% CI: 1.43-17.64) for GDM compared to normal weight, whereas underweight and overweight/obese in Karen women were both associated with similarly elevated adjusted odds, approximately 2.4-fold (non-significant) for GDM. GDM diagnosis by OGTT was highest prior to peak rainfall.

Conclusions: Risk-factor-based screening was not sufficiently sensitive or specific to be useful to diagnose GDM in this setting among a cohort of low-risk pregnant women. A two-step universal screening program has thus been implemented.
Thyrotropinoma - the case report about one of the rarest type of pituitary adenomas
Authors: Jarosz Piotr Michał , Idzik Zuzanna , Gołacki Jakub , Obel Ewa
Published: April 2022

Pituitary tumours are a significant diagnostic problem in clinical practice. Considering all the rarity of thyrotropic hormone secreting adenoma it is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in part due to the lack of the preoperative standards. TSH-oma, besides hyperthyroidism symptoms, might be a cause of other endocrine disorders, most often dysfunction of other tropic axes and may cause neurological symptoms associated with sella expansion. We report a case of a 49-year-old male patient with macroadenoma, overt clinical hyperthyroidism, secondary adrenal insufficiency and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. The diagnosis of thyrotropinoma was confirmed by blood tests that revealed elevated FT3 and FT4 levels together with high TSH. Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) test was performed and  magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging revealed the presence of macroadenoma. Histopathology examination confirmed the diagnosis of thyrotropic cell pituitary adenoma. The appropriate therapy for thyrotropin pituitary adenoma has not been elaborated in reports of this domain. Preoperatively the patient was prepared by long-acting somatostatin analogue (Sandostatin LAR) injections to reduce tumor size with good therapeutic effect afterwards underwent surgical transsphenoidal treatment successfully. However, specific treatment guidelines for pituitary thyrotropic tumors need to be elaborated more in details.
A Large Neighborhood Search for the Vehicle Routing Problem with Multiple Time Windows
Authors: Schaap Hendrik , Schiffer Maximilian , Schneider Michael , Walther Grit
Published: April 2022

User-centered logistics that aim at customer satisfaction are gaining importance because of growing e-commerce and home deliveries. Customer satisfaction can be strongly increased by offering narrow delivery time windows. However, there is a tradeoff for the logistics provider because user-friendly delivery time windows might decrease operational flexibility. Against this background, we study the vehicle routing problem with multiple time windows (VRPMTW) that determines a set of optimal routes such that each customer is visited once within one out of several time windows. We present a large neighborhood search–based metaheuristic for the VRPMTW that contains a dynamic programming component to optimally select a time window for each customer on a route, and we present computationally efficient move descriptors for all search operators. We evaluate the performance of our algorithm on the Belhaiza instance set for the objectives of minimizing traveled distance and duration. For the former objective, we provide new best-known solutions for 9 of 48 instances, and for the latter, we provide new best-known solutions for 13 of 48 instances. Overall, our algorithm provides the best average solution quality over the full benchmark set among all available algorithms. Furthermore, we design new benchmark instances that reflect planning tasks in user-centered last-mile logistics. Based on these, we present managerial studies that show the benefit of our algorithm for practitioners and allow to derive insights on how to offer time windows to customers. We show that offering multiple time windows can be economically beneficial for the logistics service providers and increases customer flexibility simultaneously.
Workplace romance
Authors: Chander Tina
Published: April 2022

Tina Chander considers whether coupling up with a colleague is legal
A light at the end of the tunnel
Authors: Dixon Sally
Published: April 2022

Sally Dixon chats with Jadine Steer to find out how dental nursing truly changed her life
Helping trainees adapt to the workplace
Authors: Cummings Ellen
Published: April 2022

Ellen Cummings talks to Rebecca Silver about her new business which helps introduce trainee dental nurses to the dental environment
Arresting aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Black Margaret
Published: April 2022

Margaret Black outlines aggressive periodontitis and explains how it can be avoided
Empowering younger generations
Authors: Morris Michayla
Published: April 2022

Michayla Morris discusses how dental professionals can ensure patients are set for life
Looking ahead
Authors: Cummings Ellen
Published: April 2022

Ellen Cummings reviews a recent oral health roundtable
Joining the profession
Authors: Frisby Claire
Published: April 2022

Claire Frisby talks to two dental nurses about starting dental nursing later in life
Working in style
Authors: Cummings Ellen
Published: April 2022

Ellen Cummings talks to Jo Minchin about a new scrubs brand
The perfect smile for the perfect day
Authors: Nariapara Nimisha
Published: April 2022

Nimisha Nariapara explores how dental professionals can make the most out of wedding season
Predicting conveyance to the emergency department for older adults who fall
Authors: Charlton Karl , Stagg Hayley , Burrow Emma
Published: April 2022

Background:

Falls are frequent in older adults and are associated with high mortality, morbidity and immobility. Many patients can be managed in the community, but some will require conveyance to the emergency department (ED).

Aims:

This study aims to identify predictive characteristics of conveyance to the ED after a fall.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study between December 2018 and September 2020 involved patients attended by a falls rapid response service. Eligible patients were aged ≥60 years with mental capacity, had experienced a fall and were living within the relevant geographical area.

Findings:

426 patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 82.61 years (SD 8.4; range 60–99 years) and 60.7% were women. Predictive characteristics of conveyance were an injurious fall or pain (OR 8.25; 95% CI (4.89–14.50); P≤0.01) and having been lying for a long time (OR 1.6; 95% CI (1.00–2.56); P=0.04).

Conclusion:

It is possible to identify predictors of conveyance to the ED; therefore, an undifferentiated approach towards dispatching the falls rapid response service to all older adults who fall is unwarranted.
Efficacy and Safety of Interferon Alpha-2b in COVID-19: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kumar Subodh , Saurabh Manoj Kumar , Maharshi Vikas
Published: April 2022

Introduction Several drugs have been explored for the antiviral action against COVID-19 disease but none of them has been approved barring few such as Remdesivir which got emergency use authorization from USFDA. Interferon are attractive agents due to their broad anti-viral and immunological properties. Interferon alpha-2b has been recently investigated for this purpose. This study presents a systematic review of all the clinical studies involving Interferon alpha-2b to determine its efficacy and safety. Methods A systematic review of literature was done using relevant terms for ‘COVID-19” and “Interferon alpha”. The studies evaluating the effect of Interferon alpha were identified and included in the study for qualitative analysis. Result and Discussion All four clinical studies have shown that Interferon alpha 2b has efficacy as antiviral agent as shown by different clinical and laboratory parameters. It has also found to be safe and free of any major side effects. Conclusion Interferon alpha 2b is an effective antiviral agent with potential to be use in COVID-19. This drug has already been given restricted use authorization in India.
Association between Dietary Pattern, Level of Physical Activity, Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome in Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zaki Moushira , R Youness Eman
Published: April 2022

Background: Obese adolescents is a worldwide public health issue that increases the risk of illnesses. It is critical for treatments to understand context-specific hazards. Objectives: Evaluate the impact of dietary pattern on risk of metabolic syndrome (MS) and dyslipidemia in apparently healthy adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted on 600 subjects (250 males and 350 females), aged between 13 and 17 years. They were 300 obese and 300 with normal weight. Dietary consumption was divided into quintiles. Dyslipidemia was found in 60% of cases and MS in 40%. Results: Adolescents in the highest quintiles (Q5) showed significantly higher consumption of carbohydrates, sugar, fats, sweat snakes, high intake of saturated fatty acid (SFA) and body fat %. Odd ratios showed that risk factors for metabolic syndrome components were unhealthy dietary habit, sedentary life, the presence of obesity and dyslipidemia. Conclusion: inadequate dietary habits, sedentary behavior are important risk factors related to MS and dyslipidemia and obesity among Egyptian adolescents.
Cytotoxicity and Acute Oral Toxicity Effects of Parkia Speciosa Seeds Extract in C57bl/6 Mice
Authors: Noralidin Nur Amalina , Rajoodorai Vasantha Kumar , Hambali Kamarul Ariffin , Hanif Reduan Mohd Farhan , Mohd Rajdi Nur Zul Izzati , Shaharulnizim Nurshahirah , Abdul Hamid Fathin Faahimaah , Jasni Sabri Jasni Sabri , Ali Al Sultan Imad Ibrahim , Shaari Rumaizi , Luqman Nordin Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Parkia speciosa is frequently consumed as a raw salad due to the notion that the plant exhibits numerous pharmacological activities that could benefit health particularly among Asians. This study was aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity and acute oral toxicity consequences of Parkia speciosa seeds extract against 4T1 mouse mammary cancer cells on C57BL/6 female mice. The antiproliferative effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts was studied using the in-vitro antiproliferative assay, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Meanwhile, for acute toxicity study, twenty female mice were categorized into 5 groups, each with three aqueous extract treatment groups: 50 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg, meanwhile one vehicle group (treated with sterile distilled water), and one control group (no treatment given). Changes in behavioural signs, mortality rate, relative body weight, haematology, serum biochemistry, and organ histological evaluation were observed. Based on the MTT assay, the aqueous extract of Parkia speciosa was weakly active (IC50 = 312.5 ± 1.20 ug/ml) against 4T1 mammary cancer cells. In the acute study, no mortality, behavioural and physical changes were observed in any of the mice groups throughout the 14-day experiment. The haematological and serum biochemistry results of the treated and control groups showed no alteration. The kidney and liver were histopathologically evaluated and found to have normal organ architectures. Analyzed results could conclude that aqueous extract of Parkia speciosa has weakly active against cancer cells but has no deleterious effects on C57BL/6 mice given at high doses up to 2000 mg/kg.
A Prospective Observational Study of Clinical, Biochemical, and Hematological Profile of Elderly Anemic Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: C Warghane Pradip , V. C. Patil V. C. Patil , Patange Aparna , Patil Shilpa
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: Anemia is the most common condition in older population. Failure to diagnose anemia may lead to delayed diagnosis of treatable conditions. Therefore, this study was conducted to study the clinical, biochemical, and hematological profile of elderly anemic patients in a tertiary care center. Materials and Method: This prospective, observational study was conducted in 207 elderly patients with hemoglobin (Hb) <12 g/dL in females and <13 g/dL in males. A detailed history was obtained and thorough clinical examination and symptom analysis was done in all the patients. Hematological investigations including peripheral smear and biochemical investigations were conducted. The morphological pattern of anemia was analyzed based on red cell indices and peripheral smear. Pearson’s Chi-square test was used to test the association between presenting symptoms and anemia grade. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Majority of the patients presented with moderate anemia, and the most common presenting symptoms were generalized weakness and anorexia. A significant association was observed between severity of anemia and fatigue (p=0.006), headache (p=0.04), and dyspnea (p=0.010). Patients with pallor (P=0.01) and nail changes (P=0.0005) had significantly severe anemia. All the hematological parameters were within the reference range. Normocytic anemia was the most common type of morphological anemia among elderly patients . Conclusion: The incidence of anemia was quite high among elderly patients with chronic diseases and malignancies. Hence, it is very important to diagnose the cause of anemia by detailed investigations before initiating the required therapy.
A Novel Method for Optimal Distributed Generator Placement in Radial Distribution Systems
Authors: Nagaraju Sri K. , Sivanagaraju S. , Ramana T. , Satyanarayana S. , Prasad P.V.
Published: April 2022

Optimal placement of distributed generators is essential, as inappropriate placement may increase the system losses. This article proposes a novel methodology for finding the optimal size and location for installation of Distributed Generators (DGs) so as to minimize total power losses in radial distribution systems. Distribution load flow is used to find the power loss in the system. The Proposed methodology is tested with 69-node radial distribution system with single and multiple DGs and the efficacy is compared with the Acharya's method and classical grid search algorithm. Effect of optimal DGs placement on system voltage profile and branch power losses are also computed and reported
Hablando de neuroeducación: avances y desafíos en Uruguay
Authors: Cuadro Ariel
Published: April 2022

En Uruguay los avances en neuroeducación han venido dados por el desarrollo en el estudio de las dificultades del aprendizaje por profesionales de la educación y por los trabajos de la neuropsicología y las ciencias cognitivas, en particular en centros universitarios. Sobre la década de los 60 se iniciaron los trabajos sobre dislexia principalmente, a los que se fueron incorporando investigaciones desde el campo de la neurología, la neuropediatría, la neuropsicología y de las ciencias cognitivas en general. Estos trabajos han dado como resultado el desarrollo de un conjunto de técnicas de evaluación, de programas de intervención y estimulación para uso educativo que están incorporando las evidencias de la neuroeducación a las escuelas. No obstante, se presentan una serie de desafíos para una comprensión e incorporación mayor de los estudios de la neuroeducación a las prácticas de enseñanza con el fin de favorecer y mejorar los aprendizajes.
“El Mar nos Une”: imaginarios geopolíticos y frontera marítima en el diferendo Bolivia-Chile
Authors: Lois María
Published: April 2022

Este artículo propone un acercamiento a los imaginarios geopolíticos surgidos en el contexto de la demanda jurídica presentada por Bolivia en la Corte Internacional de La Haya en 2013, resuelta en 2018. Desde un análisis crítico de discurso, este trabajo intentará mostrar como el tiempo legal, el tiempo de la demanda, abre un horizonte de diferentes planos de producción de representaciones en torno al mar y su recuperación como referente para la política exterior boliviana. En términos de materiales, se trabajará con textos y registros visuales publicados tanto por instituciones oficiales (ministerio de Justicia y Transparencia Institucional, Procuraduría General del Estado, etc.), como por actores no institucionales (artistas), así como con prácticas espaciales (el “banderazo”) con el propósito de mostrar la amplia y diversa imaginación geopolítica ligada a la demanda de un “Mar para Bolivia”.
Quasinormal modes in transformation media
Authors: Li Ruiqi
Published: April 2022

The quasinormal mode (QNM) is generally a mathematical tool in analysing open systems. As the concept of Parity-Time (PT) symmetry was transplanted from quantum mechanics to classical wave systems, massive intriguing phenomena have been found, especially in the vicinity of the so-called exceptional points (EPs). In this paper, with the help of transformation optics (TO), we focus on finding EPs of three-layer PT symmetric models, especially the Metal-Insulator-amplifying Metal (MIaM) ones. Theoretical and numerical methods both indicate that the EPs only exist in the complex frequency regime. Searching within the real frequency spectrum would never find EPs across which complex conjugate wavenumbers occur. Equivalently, only QNMs exist in the symmetry broken phase.
Simulated actin reorganization mediated by motor proteins
Authors: Ciocanel Maria-Veronica , Chandrasekaran Aravind , Mager Carli , Ni Qin , Papoian Garegin A. , Dawes Adriana
Published: April 2022

Cortical actin networks are highly dynamic and play critical roles in shaping the mechanical properties of cells. The actin cytoskeleton undergoes significant reorganization in many different contexts, including during directed cell migration and over the course of the cell cycle, when cortical actin can transition between different configurations such as open patched meshworks, homogeneous distributions, and aligned bundles. Several types of myosin motor proteins, characterized by different kinetic parameters, have been involved in this reorganization of actin filaments. Given the limitations in studying the interactions of actin with myosin in vivo, we propose stochastic agent-based models and develop a set of data analysis measures to assess how myosin motor proteins mediate various actin organizations. In particular, we identify individual motor parameters, such as motor binding rate and step size, that generate actin networks with different levels of contractility and different patterns of myosin motor localization, which have previously been observed experimentally. In simulations where two motor populations with distinct kinetic parameters interact with the same actin network, we find that motors may act in a complementary way, by tuning the actin network organization, or in an antagonistic way, where one motor emerges as dominant. This modeling and data analysis framework also uncovers parameter regimes where spatial segregation between motor populations is achieved. By allowing for changes in kinetic rates during the actin-myosin dynamic simulations, our work suggests that certain actin-myosin organizations may require additional regulation beyond mediation by motor proteins in order to reconfigure the cytoskeleton network on experimentally-observed timescales.
Smartphone multiplex microcapillary diagnostics using Cygnus: Development and evaluation of rapid serotype-specific NS1 detection with dengue patient samples
Authors: Needs Sarah Helen , Sirivisoot Sirintra , Jegouic Sophie , Prommool Tanapan , Luangaram Prasit , Srisawat Chatchawan , Sriraksa Kanokwan , Limpitikul Wannee , Mairiang Dumrong , Malasit Prida , Avirutnan Panisadee , Puttikhunt Chunya , Edwards Alexander Daniel
Published: April 2022

Laboratory diagnosis of dengue virus (DENV) infection including DENV serotyping requires skilled labor and well-equipped settings. DENV NS1 lateral flow rapid test (LFT) provides simplicity but lacks ability to identify serotype. A simple, economical, point-of-care device for serotyping is still needed. We present a gravity driven, smartphone compatible, microfluidic device using microcapillary film (MCF) to perform multiplex serotype-specific immunoassay detection of dengue virus NS1. A novel device–termed Cygnus–with a stackable design allows analysis of 1 to 12 samples in parallel in 40 minutes. A sandwich enzyme immunoassay was developed to specifically detect NS1 of all four DENV serotypes in one 60-μl plasma sample. This test aims to bridge the gap between rapid LFT and laboratory microplate ELISAs in terms of sensitivity, usability, accessibility and speed. The Cygnus NS1 assay was evaluated with retrospective undiluted plasma samples from 205 DENV infected patients alongside 50 febrile illness negative controls. Against the gold standard RT-PCR, clinical sensitivity for Cygnus was 82% in overall (with 78, 78, 80 and 76% for DENV1-4, respectively), comparable to an in-house serotyping NS1 microplate ELISA (82% vs 83%) but superior to commercial NS1-LFT (82% vs 74%). Specificity of the Cygnus device was 86%, lower than that of NS1-microplate ELISA and NS1-LFT (100% and 98%, respectively). For Cygnus positive samples, identification of DENV serotypes DENV2-4 matched those by RT-PCR by 100%, but for DENV1 capillaries false positives were seen, suggesting an improved DENV1 capture antibody is needed to increase specificity. Overall performance of Cygnus showed substantial agreement to NS1-microplate ELISA (κ = 0.68, 95%CI 0.58–0.77) and NS1-LFT (κ = 0.71, 95%CI 0.63–0.80). Although further refinement for DENV-1 NS1 detection is needed, the advantages of multiplexing and rapid processing time, this Cygnus device could deliver point-of-care NS1 antigen testing including serotyping for timely DENV diagnosis for epidemic surveillance and outbreak prediction.
Why conspiracy theorists are not always paranoid: Conspiracy theories and paranoia form separate factors with distinct psychological predictors
Authors: Alsuhibani Azzam , Shevlin Mark , Freeman Daniel , Sheaves Bryony , Bentall Richard P.
Published: April 2022

Paranoia and belief in conspiracy theories both involve suspiciousness about the intentions of others but have rarely been studied together. In three studies, one with a mainly student sample (N = 496) and two with more representative UK population samples (N = 1,519, N = 638) we compared single and two-factor models of paranoia and conspiracy theories as well as associations between both belief systems and other psychological constructs. A model with two correlated factors was the best fit in all studies. Both belief systems were associated with poor locus of control (belief in powerful others and chance) and loneliness. Paranoid beliefs were specifically associated with negative self-esteem and, in two studies, insecure attachment; conspiracy theories were associated with positive self-esteem in the two larger studies and narcissistic personality traits in the final study. Conspiracist thinking but not paranoia was associated with poor performance on the Cognitive Reflection Task (poor analytical thinking). The findings suggest that paranoia and belief in conspiracy theories are distinct but correlated belief systems with both common and specific psychological components.
Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A virus by dry fogging hypochlorous acid solution and hydrogen peroxide solution
Authors: Urushidani Masahiro , Kawayoshi Akira , Kotaki Tomohiro , Saeki Keiichi , Mori Yasuko , Kameoka Masanori
Published: April 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is transmitted mainly by droplet or aerosol infection; however, it may also be transmitted by contact infection. SARS-CoV-2 that adheres to environmental surfaces remains infectious for several days. We herein attempted to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A virus adhering to an environmental surface by dry fogging hypochlorous acid solution and hydrogen peroxide solution. SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus were air-dried on plastic plates and placed into a test chamber for inactivation by the dry fogging of these disinfectants. The results obtained showed that the dry fogging of hypochlorous acid solution and hydrogen peroxide solution inactivated SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A virus in CT value (the product of the disinfectant concentration and contact time)-dependent manners. SARS-CoV-2 was more resistant to the virucidal effects of aerosolized hypochlorous acid solution and hydrogen peroxide solution than influenza A virus; therefore, higher concentrations of disinfectants or longer contact times were required to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 than influenza A virus. The present results provide important information for the development of a strategy that inactivates SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A virus on environmental surfaces by spatial fogging.
Improving the quality of predictive models in small data GSDOT: A new algorithm for generating synthetic data
Authors: Douzas Georgios , Lechleitner Maria , Bacao Fernando
Published: April 2022

In the age of the data deluge there are still many domains and applications restricted to the use of small datasets. The ability to harness these small datasets to solve problems through the use of supervised learning methods can have a significant impact in many important areas. The insufficient size of training data usually results in unsatisfactory performance of machine learning algorithms. The current research work aims to contribute to mitigate the small data problem through the creation of artificial instances, which are added to the training process. The proposed algorithm, Geometric Small Data Oversampling Technique, uses geometric regions around existing samples to generate new high quality instances. Experimental results show a significant improvement in accuracy when compared with the use of the initial small dataset as well as other popular artificial data generation techniques.
Binocular vision findings in normally-sighted school aged children who used digital devices
Authors: Maharjan Urusha , Rijal Sujata , Jnawali Ashutosh , Sitaula Sanjeeta , Bhattarai Sanjeev , Shrestha Gulshan Bahadur
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To determine the binocular vision status in normally-sighted school aged children who used digital devices.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at B.P. Koirala Lions Center for Ophthalmic Studies, Kathmandu, Nepal for a duration of one year. One hundred and eighty school aged children (71 female and 109 male) aged 7 to 17 years were included in the study. All the children underwent detailed ophthalmic and binocular vision examinations. The duration of the use of digital devices by the children were asked to either the parents or guardians present at the time of the study. The study participants were divided into two groups: children who used digital devices for the last six months (users group) and those who hadn’t used digital devices for the last six months (non users group). The users group was again divided into two subgroups: children who used digital devices for less than 3 hours per day and a day per week (low digital device users subgroup) and children who used digital devices for more than 3 hours per day and all days in a week (high digital device users subgroup).

Results

Accommodative amplitudes, accommodative facility, and positive fusional vergence for both near and distance were significantly reduced in the high digital device users group than in the low digital device users subgroup (p <0.01). Stereo acuity, near point of convergence, and negative fusional vergences for both near and distance were not statistically significantly different between the two subgroups. Prevalence of accommodative and vergence anomalies (except convergence insufficiency) was more in the high digital device users subgroup than in the low digital device users subgroup (p<0.01).

Conclusions

Children who used digital devices for a significantly greater amount of time had significantly reduced amplitudes of accommodation, accommodative facility, and positive fusional vergence both at near and distance.
Relating the cortical visual contrast gain response to spectroscopy-measured excitatory and inhibitory metabolites in people who experience migraine
Authors: Chan Yu Man , Glarin Rebecca , Moffat Bradford A. , Bode Stefan , McKendrick Allison M.
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether the visual response to flickering checkerboard patterns measured using electroencephalography (EEG) relate to excitatory or inhibitory metabolite levels measured using ultra-high (7Tesla/7T) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).

Background

Electrophysiological studies have shown altered visual cortical response amplitudes and contrast gain responses to high contrast flickering patterns in people with migraine. These contrast response anomalies have been argued to represent an imbalance between cortical inhibition and excitation, however the specific mechanism has not been elucidated.

Methods

MRS-measured metabolite levels were obtained from the occipital cortex of 18 participants with migraine and 18 non-headache controls. EEG contrast gain response functions were collected on separate days from a subset of 10 participants with migraine and 12 non-headache controls. Case-control outcome measures were statistically compared between groups both before and after checkboard exposure.

Results

No significant difference in GABA and glutamate levels were found between groups nor checkerboard timepoint. Glucose levels were significantly reduced after checkerboard exposure in both participant groups. There was no metabolic signature in visual cortex in response to high-contrast flickering checkboards that distinguished those with migraine and without. There was also no correlation between MRS and EEG measurements in response to the flickering checkerboard.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the mechanisms driving contrast-flickering stimulus aversion are not simplistically reflected by gross changes in metabolic activity in the primary visual cortex.
Long: Influence of water masses on the summer structure of the seabird community in the northeastern Chukchi Sea
Authors: Gall Adrian E. , Prichard Alexander K. , Kuletz Katherine J. , Danielson Seth L.
Published: April 2022

We used data collected during a variety of research cruises in the northeastern Chukchi Sea and contributed to the Distributed Biological Observatory to explore the influence of the seasonal change in water masses on the development of the seabird community during the summer. Surveys that included seabird observations and hydrographic sampling were conducted from Alaska’s northwestern coast to ~220 km offshore during 2008–2018. Species composition varied geographically, shifting from a nearshore community that included short-tailed shearwaters, loons, and seaducks to an offshore community dominated by crested auklets. Crested auklets were remarkably consistent in their occupation of Hanna Shoal among years and remained in the area throughout the summer. Short-tailed shearwaters exhibited the greatest seasonal and interannual variation in abundance and distribution of the 35 species recorded. They were concentrated south of 71°N and within 50 km of shore in August and tended to spread throughout the region in September. Surface-feeding species like gulls, fulmars, and phalaropes were 1–2 orders of magnitude less abundant and had wider distributions than birds that feed by diving. Including information about hydrography improved the fit of models of seabird density. Seabirds, especially those that breed in the Bering Sea, generally were more abundant in areas dominated by moderate-salinity Bering Sea Water than nearshore in low-salinity Alaska Coastal Water. The distribution of seabirds across the northeastern Chukchi Sea reflected the heterogeneity of oceanic habitats and prey availability over the shallow shelf. Our results will inform efforts to develop ecosystem models that incorporate oceanographic conditions to predict ongoing consequences of climate change.
Volleyball practice increases bone mass in prepubescent boys during growth: A 1-yr longitudinal study
Authors: Zribi Anis , Chaari Hamada , Masmoudi Liwa , Dardouri Wajdi , Khanfir Mohamed Ali , Bouajina Elyes , Zaouali Monia , Zouch Mohamed
Published: April 2022

The aim of this longitudinal study was to examine the effects of 1-yr of volleyball practice on the bone mass development in the growing skeleton among prepubescent children. Twenty volleyball players and nine teen matched control boys (Tanner stage 1, at the start of the study) were followed over a 1-yr period. Bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm2), bone mineral content (BMC, g) were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry on the whole body, lumbar spine (L2–L4), legs, arms, femoral necks, hips and radii. At follow-up, in comparison with controls, volleyball players gained more BMD in whole body (4.5% vs 1.7%; p = 0.014), both nondominant and dominant arms (5.8% vs 1.1% p = 0.005, and 6% vs 2.1%; p = 0.003, respectively), both nondmoninat and dominant legs (9% vs 4.8%; p = 0.005 and 10.7% vs 6% p = 0.0025; respectively), dominant ultradistal radius (10.4% vs 0.9%; p = 0.005), dominant third distal radius (9.6% vs 3.71%; p = 0.023), dominant whole radius (7.4% vs 3.1%; p = 0.017), lumbar spine L2-L4 (9.9% vs 2.8%; p = 0.004), femoral neck (4.7% vs 1.6%; p = 0.034), trochanter (6% vs 1.5%; p<0.001) and total hip (6.1% vs 2.6%; p = 0.006). Volleyball players gained more BMC in both nondominant and dominant arms (25.1% vs 13.4%; p = 0.003, and 26.1% vs 15.6%; p<0.001 respectively), both nondominant and dominant legs (20.2% vs 14.5%; p = 0.004 and 23% vs 16%; p = 0.004, respectively), dominant ultradistal radius (22.4% vs 8.7%; p = 0.002), dominant third distal radius (20.9% vs 5.9%; p = 0.001), dominant whole radius (20% vs 13%), nondominant third distal radius (14.5% vs 5.9%; p = 0.001), nondominant whole radius (21.1% vs 12%; p = 0.002), lumbar spine L2-L4 (21.1% vs 13.7%; p = 0.007), femoral neck (25.9% vs 8.7%; p = 0.007), trochanter (23.5% vs 17.1%; p = 0.006), and total hip (16.3% vs 11.3%; p = 0.009) than controls. A close correlation was observed between the increment (Δ) of whole body lean mass and increased (Δ) BMD and BMC in whole body (r = 0.43, p<0.01, r = 0.73, p<0.001; respectively), lumbar spine (r = 0.54, r = 0.61, p<0.001; respectively), trochanter (r = 0.46, p<0.01, r = 0.35, p<0.05; respectively), and total hip (r = 0.53, p<0.01, r = 0.6, p<0.0001; respectively). In summary, 1-yr of volleyball practice has an osteogenic effect on bone mass in loaded sites in prepubescent boys.
Association between chronic physical conditions and depressive symptoms among hospital workers in a national medical institution designated for COVID-19 in Japan
Authors: Fukunaga Ami , Inoue Yosuke , Yamamoto Shohei , Miki Takako , Hoang Dong Van , Manandhar Shrestha Rachana , Ishiwari Hironori , Ishii Masamichi , Miyo Kengo , Konishi Maki , Ohmagari Norio , Mizoue Tetsuya
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional association between the presence of chronic physical conditions and depressive symptoms among hospital workers at a national medical institution designated for COVID-19 treatment in Tokyo, Japan. We also accounted for the combined association of chronic physical conditions and SARS-CoV-2 infection risk at work in relation to depressive symptoms, given that occupational infection risk might put additional psychological burden among those with chronic physical conditions with risk of severe COVID-19 outcome.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 2,440 staff members who participated in a health survey conducted at the national medical institution during period between October 2020 and December 2020. Participants who reported at least one chronic physical condition that were deemed risk factors of severe COVID-19 outcome were regarded as having chronic physical conditions. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). We performed logistic regression analysis to assess the association between chronic physical conditions and depressive symptoms.

Results

Our results showed that the presence of chronic physical conditions was significantly associated with depressive symptoms (odds ratio (OR) = 1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.10–2.02). In addition, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was significantly higher among healthcare workers with chronic physical conditions who were at a higher occupational infection risk (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.04–3.16).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest the importance of providing more assistance to those with chronic physical conditions regarding the prevention and control of mental health issues, particularly among frontline healthcare workers engaging in COVID-19-related work.
Signatures of selection and drivers for novel mutation on transmission-blocking vaccine candidate Pfs25 gene in western Kenya
Authors: Ochwedo Kevin O. , Onyango Shirley A. , Omondi Collince J. , Orondo Pauline W. , Ondeto Benyl M. , Lee Ming-Chieh , Atieli Harrysone E. , Ogolla Sidney O. , Githeko Andrew K. , Otieno Antony C. A. , Mukabana Wolfgang R. , Yan Guiyun , Zhong Daibin , Kazura James W.
Published: April 2022

Background

Leading transmission-blocking vaccine candidates such as Plasmodium falciparum surface protein 25 (Pfs25 gene) may undergo antigenic alterations which may render them ineffective or allele-specific. This study examines the level of genetic diversity, signature of selection and drivers of Pfs25 polymorphisms of parasites population in regions of western Kenya with varying malaria transmission intensities.

Methods

Dry blood spots (DBS) were collected in 2018 and 2019 from febrile outpatients with malaria at health facilities in malaria-endemic areas of Homa Bay, Kisumu (Chulaimbo) and the epidemic-prone highland area of Kisii. Parasites DNA were extracted from DBS using Chelex method. Species identification was performed using real-time PCR. The 460 base pairs (domains 1–4) of the Pfs25 were amplified and sequenced for a total of 180 P. falciparum-infected blood samples.

Results

Nine of ten polymorphic sites were identified for the first time. Overall, Pfs25 exhibited low nucleotide diversity (0.04×10−2) and low mutation frequencies (1.3% to 7.7%). Chulaimbo had the highest frequency (15.4%) of mutated sites followed by Kisii (6.7%) and Homa Bay (5.1%). Neutrality tests of Pfs25 variations showed significant negative values of Tajima’s D (-2.15, p<0.01) and Fu’s F (-10.91, p<0.001) statistics tests. Three loci pairs (123, 372), (364, 428) and (390, 394) were detected to be under linkage disequilibrium and none had history of recombination. These results suggested that purifying selection and inbreeding might be the drivers of the observed variation in Pfs25.

Conclusion

Given the low level of nucleotide diversity, it is unlikely that a Pfs25 antigen-based vaccine would be affected by antigenic variations. However, continued monitoring of Pfs25 immunogenic domain 3 for possible variants that might impact vaccine antibody binding is warranted.
Changes in alcohol use and mood during the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with traumatic brain injury: A difference-in-difference study
Authors: Kumar Raj G. , Esterov Dmitry , Adams Rachel Sayko , Corrigan John D. , Juengst Shannon B. , Chiaravalloti Nancy D. , Yew Belinda , Dreer Laura E. , Dams-O’Connor Kristen
Published: April 2022

Objective

To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic exposure on changes in alcohol use and mood from years 1 to 2 after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

We used a difference-in-difference (DiD) study design to analyze data from 1,059 individuals with moderate-to-severe TBI enrolled in the TBI Model Systems (TBIMS) National Database. We defined COVID-19 pandemic exposure as participants who received their year 1 post-injury interviews prior to January 1, 2020, and their year 2 interview between April 1, 2020 and January 15, 2021. Pandemic-unexposed participants had both year 1 and 2 follow-up interviews before January 1, 2020. We measured current alcohol use as any past month alcohol use, average number of drinks per drinking occasion, and past month binge drinking. We measured depression symptoms using Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and anxiety symptoms using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7.

Results

We found persons with TBI exposed to the pandemic had greater increases in the average number of drinks per occasion from year 1 to 2 post-injury compared to pandemic-unexposed individuals (β = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.57, p = 0.001), with males, adults <65 years old, and Black and Hispanic subgroups showing the greatest increases in consumption. Though average consumption was elevated, changes in rates of any alcohol use or binge drinking by pandemic exposure were not observed. Overall, there were no significant changes in depressive and anxiety symptoms over time between pandemic exposed and unexposed groups; however, pandemic-exposed Hispanics with TBI reported significant increases in anxiety symptoms from year-1 to year-2 post-injury compared to pandemic-unexposed Hispanics (β = 2.35, 95% CI: 0.25, 4.47, p = 0.028).

Conclusion

Among persons living with TBI, those exposed to the pandemic had significant increases in average alcohol consumption. Pandemic-exposed Hispanics with TBI had large elevations in anxiety symptoms, perhaps reflecting health inequities exacerbated by the pandemic, and suggesting a need for targeted monitoring of psychosocial distress.
A portable brightfield and fluorescence microscope toward automated malarial parasitemia quantification in thin blood smears
Authors: Gordon Paul D. , De Ville Courtney , Sacchettini James C. , Coté Gerard L.
Published: April 2022

Malaria is often most endemic in remote regions where diagnostic microscopy services are unavailable. In such regions, the use of rapid diagnostic tests fails to quantify parasitemia measurements which reflect the concentration of Plasmodium parasites in the bloodstream. Thus, novel diagnostic and monitoring technologies capable of providing such information could improve the quality of treatment, monitoring, and eradication efforts. A low-cost, portable microscope for gathering quantitative parasitemia data from fluorescently stained thin blood smears is presented. The system employs bimodal imaging using components optimized for cost savings, system robustness, and optical performance. The microscope is novel for its use of monochromatic visible illumination paired with a long working distance singlet aspheric objective lens that can image both traditionally mounted and cartridge-based blood smears. Eight dilutions of red blood cells containing laboratory cultured wild-type P. falciparum were used to create thin smears which were stained with SYBR Green-1 fluorescent dye. Two subsequent images are captured for each field-of-view, with brightfield images providing cell counts and fluorescence images providing parasite localization data. Results indicate the successful resolution of sub-micron sized parasites, and parasitemia measurements from the prototype microscope display linear correlation with measurements from a benchtop microscope with a limit of detection of 0.18 parasites per 100 red blood cells.
Telemonitoring for patients with inflammatory bowel disease amid the COVID-19 pandemic—A cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Yao Jiaqi , Fekadu Ginenus , Jiang Xinchan , You Joyce H. S.
Published: April 2022

Background and aim

COVID-19 pandemic burdens the healthcare systems, causes healthcare avoidance, and might worsen the outcomes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) management. We aimed to estimate the impact of pandemic-related avoidance on outpatient IBD management, and the cost-effectiveness of adding telemonitoring during pandemic from the perspective of Hong Kong public healthcare provider.

Methods

The study was performed by a decision-analytic model to estimate the quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and cost of care for IBD patients before and during the pandemic, and to compare the cost and QALYs of adding telemonitoring to standard care (SC-TM) versus standard care alone (SC) for IBD patients during the pandemic. The sources of model inputs included publications (retrieved from literature search) and public data. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine the robustness of base-case results.

Results

Standard care with pandemic-related avoidance (versus without avoidance) lost 0.0026 QALYs at higher cost (by USD43). The 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations found standard care with pandemic-related avoidance lost QALYs and incurred higher cost in 100% and 96.82% of the time, respectively. Compared with the SC group, the SC-TM group saved 0.0248 QALYs and reduced cost by USD799. Monte Carlo simulations showed the SC-TM group gained higher QALYs at lower cost in 100% of 10,000 simulations.

Conclusions

Standard care for IBD patients during pandemic with healthcare avoidance appears to worsen treatment outcomes at higher cost and lowered QALYs. The addition of telemonitoring to standard care seems to gain higher QALYs and reduce cost, and is therefore a potential cost-effective strategy for IBD management during the pandemic.