bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of the Transport PLUS Intervention to Improve the Transitions of Care for Patients Transported Home by Ambulance: A Non-Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Munjal Kevin G , Yeturu Sai Kaushik , Chapin Hugh H , Tan Nadir , Gregoriou Diana , Garcia Daniela , Grudzen Corita , Hwang Ula , Morano Barbara , Neher Hayley , Gorbenko Ksenia , Youngblood Glen , Misra Anjali , Dietrich Stayley , Gonzalez Cyndi , Appel Giselle , Jacobs Erica , Siu Albert , Richardson Lynne D
Published: April 2022

Background: The growing population of patients over the age of 65 faces particular vulnerability following discharge after hospitalization or an emergency room visit. Specific areas of concern include a high risk for falls and poor comprehension of discharge instructions. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), who frequently transport these patients home from the hospital, are uniquely positioned to aid in mitigating transition of care risks and are both trained and utilized to do so using the Transport PLUS intervention. Methods: Existing literature and focus groups of various stakeholders were utilized to develop two checklists: the Fall Safety Assessment (FSA) and the Discharge Comprehension Assessment (DCA). EMTs were trained to administer the intervention to eligible patients in the geriatric population. Using data from the checklists, follow-up phone calls, and electronic health records, we measured the presence of hazards, removal of hazards, presence of discharge comprehension issues, and correction or reinforcement of comprehension. These results were validated during home visits by community health workers (CHWs). Feasibility outcomes included patient acceptance of the Transport PLUS intervention and accuracy of the EMT assessment. Qualitative feedback via focus groups was also obtained. Clinical outcomes measured included 3-day and 30-day readmission or ED revisit. Results: 103 EMTs were trained to administer the intervention and participated in 439 patient encounters. The intervention was determined to be feasible, and patients were highly amenable to the intervention, as evidenced by a 92% and 74% acceptance rate of the DCA and FSA, respectively. The majority of patients also reported that they found the intervention helpful (90%), and self-reported removing 40% of fall hazards; 85% of such changes were validated by CHWs. Readmission/revisit rates are also reported.Conclusions: The Transport PLUS intervention is a feasible, easily implemented tool in preventative community paramedicine with high levels of patient acceptance. Further study is merited to determine the effectiveness of the intervention in reducing rates of readmission or revisit. A randomized control trial has since begun utilizing the knowledge gained within this study. Trial Registration: Not Applicable
Immunochromatography Versus Microscopy for Diagnosis of Amoebiasis in Sohag, Egypt
Authors: Ellah Asmaa Kamal Abd , El-Mawgood Amaal Ahmed Abd , Ahmed Amal Mostafa , Hashem Khoulood Zakaria
Published: April 2022

Background: Amoebiasis; a parasitic infection caused by E. histolytica protozoon, is still a major public health in developing countries. Delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to fatality. So, rapid and accurate diagnosis plays a critical role in patient’s management. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of immunochromatographic test (ICT) using RIDA®QUICK Entamoeba test compared with traditional microscopic examination as gold standard for the diagnosis of E. histolytica /dispar infection. Methods: A Cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients complaining of dysentery or diarrhea with an age range of 3-62 years, attending Sohag University Hospitals and Endemic Diseases Hospital. All stool samples were examined by direct wet smears, formalin ethyl acetate concentration techniques, staining of the smears using Wiegert’s iron hematoxylin and Modified Ziehl-Neelsen method. Copro-antigen detection in stool sample was by using RIDA®QUICK Entamoeba test. Results: Microscopic examination revealed 43 out of 100 patients (43%) were positives for E. histolytica/dispar. The infection was significantly associated with residence (P value < 0.036) and family size (P value < 0.03) but not associated with gender (P value < 0.471) and age (P value < 0.344). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of Rida®Quick Entamoeba tests were 97.67%, 96.49%, 95.45% and 98.21% respectively with an accuracy of 97%. There was no cross-reactivity with other intestinal parasites.Conclusions: Rida® Quick Entamoeba test is a simple, rapid, convenient, sensitive and specific assay for the diagnosis amebiasis and is therefore very suitable for large-scale field applications.
Structural characteristics and biological activities of extracts and secondary metabolites from Millettia phuwuaensis Mattapha & Suddee
Authors: Chaikrueang penpaka , pompimon wilart , Udomputtimekakul Phansuang , Khamto Nopawit , Meepowpan Puttinan , Natetip Pakpoom , Khudngaongam Nuntiya , Wongjaren Napakaon , Khuntee Duangsuda , Michaidi Khwanruethai , Kongbun Khanittha , Chueakhamsao Supaporn , Issariyajongkol Kanyawee , nuntasaen Narong , Suksen Kanoknetr , Chairoungdua Arthit , Limthongkul Jitra , Naparswad Chanita , Pikulthong Suttiporn
Published: April 2022

A study of the phytochemicals of stems, Millettia phuwuaensis. This led to the discovery of solvent extracts and pure substances from chromatography. Compound (1), 7-methoxy-5/,6/-methylenedioxyisoflavone, isoflavonoid, and compound (2), 12-deoxo-12α-hydroxyelliptone, rotenoid were structurally proven using NMR-based spectroscopy. Both extracts and pure compounds were evaluated for their biological activity, including antibacterial activity, AIDs, and cancer. The antibacterial test results of the extracts and pure compound were found to be valuable, MIC is in the range of 12.5-200 mg/mL, in the range of 0.188-6 mg/mL, respectively. Mechanistic anti-AIDs affect RT and MC99 found that ethyl acetate extract inhibited the very high level with IC50 with 75.93 %. It was also found that all extracts were effective in inhibiting AIDs By mechanism MC99 at EC50 at 1.35 µM (TI>2.41). Further, the ethyl acetate extract showed marked cytotoxicity (ED50= 17.58 µg/ml against the SH-SY5Y cancer cell line. Additionally, compound 1 was also exhibited RT, moderately active with IC50 55.19 % inhibition. More than that, compounds 1 and 2 were also exhibited to MC99 at 50% (EC50) values of > 3.01 (TI >1.70) and 1.78 (TI >1.70), respectively.
The Effect of Physical Activity Level on Trait Anxiety in College Students: The Mediating Role of Executive Function
Authors: DONG Zhiwei , WANG Peng , XIN Xin , WANG Jing , ZHAO Jinlei , WANG Xing
Published: April 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between physical activity level, executive function, and trait anxiety and focused on investigating the mediating role of the subcomponents of executive functions between different levels of physical activity intensity and trait anxiety.Methods: The International Physical Activity Questionnaire, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Stroop task, 1-back task, and More-odd shifting task were used to analyze 248 college students by one-way ANOVA, linear regression analysis, and structural equation modeling analysis.Results: Trait anxiety were significantly correlated with shifting function (r=0.182, P=0.004) and inhibition function (r=0.163, P=0.010) and not with working memory (r=0.056, P=0.385). High-intensity physical activity level was most highly correlated with inhibition function (Beta=-0.144, P=0.024) and working memory (Beta=-0.208, P=0.001), and low-intensity physical activity level was most highly correlated with shifting function (Beta=-0.211, P=0.001). Physical activity level had a 72.31% direct effect on reducing trait anxiety (B=-0.195), with 11.79% mediated by inhibition function (B=-0.023) and 15.90% by shifting function (B=-0.031). High-intensity physical activity level had a direct effect on alleviating trait anxiety in 81.08% (B=-0.150), 9.19% mediated by inhibition function (B=-0.017), and 9.73% mediated by shifting function (B=-0.018). The effect of medium-intensity physical activity level on trait anxiety was 40.91% mediated by inhibition function (B=-0.018) and 56.82% mediated by shifting function (B=0.025). The effect of the low-intensity physical activity level on trait anxiety was mediated 34.62% by inhibition function (B=-0.018) and 65.38% by shifting function (B=-0.034).Conclusion: College students with trait anxiety suffer from impaired inhibition and shifting function. The facilitation effects of physical activity levels on executive function subcomponents were, in descending order, working memory, shifting function, and inhibition function, with high-intensity physical activity level contributing most to the facilitation of working memory and inhibition function, and low-intensity physical activity level contributing most to the promotion of shifting function. Physical activity promotes both inhibition and shifting functions, which in turn affect trait anxiety. The high-intensity physical activity level has a direct effect on trait anxiety, while the anxiolytic effect of medium and low-intensity physical activity level is mediated exclusively through executive functions, with the highest mediating effect of shifting function.
Identification of a 16-MTGs Prognostic Signature in Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Wang Xiaoqin , Feng Pengcheng
Published: April 2022

Background
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the largest lymphoma subcategories. Usually, 50–70% of DLBCL patients can be cured by the standard treatment. But at least one third have bad prognosis. Based on this situation, the research on DLBCL therapy strategies is still indispensable.
Method
A prognostic signature was built according to public data and bioinformatics methods, the stability and reliability was assessed and validated. GSEA was performed to explore the difference between different groups. Consensus clustering and immune infiltration were analyzed comprehensively.
Results
In this work, a signature based on multiple metabolism-associated genes (MTGs) was established, containing 16 MTGs, to aid medical workers to predict the prognosis of DLBCL patients. The accuracy and effectiveness of this signature have been verified by three external validation sets. According to the risk formula, DLBCL patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups, and the survival rate of the low-risk group was significantly higher than that of the high-risk group. Furthermore, Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) demonstrated that Beta-alanine metabolism and regulation of actin cytoskeleton signal pathways were enriched in the low-risk group. The actual survival and nomogram-predicted survival matched well both in the training cohort and verification cohorts.
Conclusion
In general, our prognostic signature can provide reliable information for medical workers and has some value for the prognosis of DLBCL.
Household electricity consumption inefficiency and it’s determinants in rural areas
Authors: Basumatary Sijousa , Devi Mridula
Published: April 2022

In this paper we have analysed the electricity consumption inefficiency of households in rural area by using stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) applying single stage one-sided approach on the primary data collected using stratified random sampling. We find the mean efficiency of the households is 77.25 percent where the stochastic demand frontier reveals government subsidy and minimum watt have a significant positive impact on household electricity consumption. Surprisingly, numbers of living room does not increase electricity consumption demand in rural areas.We found the inefficiency factors; a reduction in cut in minutes and cut frequency can reduce the inefficiency of electricity consumption by the households in rural areas. Intuitively, a reduction in cut time duration and number of times electricity is cut in a day on an average can reduce inefficiency of the households by 15 percent and 39 percent respectively. Additionally, households living in pukka floors and having inverter as secondary source of lighting could reduce their inefficiency by 11 and 7 percent respectively. Overall, we found inefficiency in electricity consumption in the rural areas lie more on the supply side constraints compared to the demand side.
Modeling of Organochlorine Pesticides in Surface Water, Sediment and Soil of a Small Pond Watershed
Authors: Uygun Burcu Şimşek , Albek Erdem Ahmet
Published: April 2022

Modern agricultural techniques and inputs should be used to increase the yield and quality of products. The use of pesticides for plant protection products is one of these inputs and is a significant component of modern agriculture. Agricultural runoff is the main reason of nonpoint source pollution, which adversely affects surface and ground water quality. The runoff process drives pesticide transport and fate with high spatial and temporal variability in agricultural watersheds. In this study, the presence of pesticides in the water environment of the Borabey Pond and watershed which is situated in the foothills of Bozdağ to the north of Eskişehir, Turkey is determined by measurements. For this purpose, soil samples from the watershed and sediment and water samples from the pond were taken. In these samples, pesticides were analyzed at regular intervals. Based on the results of the analysis, pesticides currently present in the watershed were modeled assuming the pond as a well-mixed system. The accumulation of pesticides in the watershed was found to be representable by the model. In this study, instead of performing pesticide modeling in a short time period, it is aimed to simulate how the past use is reflected to the present. Model and measurement results are observed to be comparable to each other.
Risk-based stratified primary care for common musculoskeletal pain presentations: qualitative findings from the STarT MSK cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Saunders Benjamin , Chudyk Adrian , Protheroe Joanne , Cooper Vincent , Bartlam Bernadette , Birkinshaw Hollie , Foster Nadine E , Hill Jonathan C
Published: April 2022

BackgroundThe STarT MSK cluster randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigated the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of risk-based stratified primary care versus usual care for patients with back, neck, shoulder, knee or multi-site pain. Trial quantitative results showed risk-based stratified care was not superior to usual care for patients’ clinical outcomes, but the intervention led to some changes in GP clinical decision-making. This paper reports a nested qualitative study exploring how risk-based stratified care was perceived and used in the trial, from the perspectives of clinicians and patients.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 patients, and focus groups and interviews with 20 clinicians (GPs and physiotherapists) in the intervention arm of the trial. Data were analysed thematically and findings explored using Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) and the COM-B model.ResultsRisk-based stratified care (subgrouping and matching treatments) was found to have ‘coherence’ (i.e. made sense) to several clinicians and patients, in that it was well-integrated in practice, and supported clinical decision-making. However, for some GPs stratified care was less ‘meaningful’, as the risk-stratification tool did not fit with usual ways of consulting and added to already time-pressured consultations. GPs reported giving more patients written information/advice due to easier access to electronic information leaflets through the trial template and were motivated to refer patients to physiotherapy as they believed the trial resulted in faster physiotherapy access (although this was not the case). Patients and clinicians reported that risk-based stratified care influenced conversations in the consultation, prompting greater attention to psychosocial factors, and facilitating negotiation of treatment options. Physiotherapists saw benefits in receiving information about patients’ risk subgroup on referral forms.ConclusionThese findings provide context for interpreting some of the trial outcomes, particularly in relation to changes in clinical decision-making when risk-based stratified care was used. Findings also indicate potential reasons for lack of GP engagement with risk-based stratified care. Positive outcomes were identified that were not captured in the quantitative data, specifically that risk-based stratified care positively influenced some GP-patient conversations and facilitated negotiation of treatment options.Trial registration: ISRCTN15366334 (26/04/2016)
Metal flow behaviour and processing maps of high heat resistant steel during hot compression
Authors: Obiko Japheth , Chown Lesley , Whitefield David , Bodunrin Michael
Published: April 2022

This article reports the flow stress behaviour of ASTM A335 P92 steel. Uniaxial isothermal compression experiments were conducted to examine the hot deformation behaviour of P92 steel in a Gleeble® 3500 thermal-mechanical simulator. The test conditions were: 0.01–10 s− 1 strain rate and 850–1000°C deformation temperature. Constitutive equations and processing maps developed were used to describe the hot deformation process. The results showed that the flow stress-strain curves exhibited a dynamic recovery (DRV) behaviour as the dominant softening mechanism. The flow stress decreased with an increase in the deformation temperature or a decrease in strain rate. Using the Arrhenius equation, the stress exponent and the activation energy values were: 8.0 and 487.56 kJmol− 1, respectively. The correlation between the constructed processing maps and microstructure showed that the optimal process parameters occurred at a lower strain rate in the region of 0.1 s− 1 and deformation temperatures of 900–950°C and 1000°C for the steel investigated.
Liver transplantation combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of hepatic metastatic giant gastrointestinal stromal tumors: a case report and literature review
Authors: Qian Jun Lin , He Yong Zhu , Hu Ze Min , He Kun
Published: April 2022

Background
Surgical resection combined with oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors(TKI) is the most effective treatment for gastrointestinal stromal tumor(GIST) liver metastases. For patients with TKI-resistant and unresectable liver metastatic GIST, there has been a lack of effective treatment measures. Liver transplantation is the last resort for end-stage liver malignancies, and it is worth exploring as a treatment option for GIST liver metastases.
Case presentation:
We report a 38-year-old woman who underwent jejunal stromal tumor resection and TKI(imatinib) therapy 15 years ago for jejunal stromal tumor liver metastases. During the period from 2015 to 2018, the liver metastases continued to grow after the patient stopped taking imatinib voluntarily, and the patient subsequently underwent multiple interventional surgeries and drug treatments, which were still poorly curative. The tumor was deemed unresectable because it filled the entire liver, and the patient subsequently underwent liver transplantation and was treated with imatinib post-operatively, which resulted in no recurrence of the tumor within 13 months of follow-up.
Conclusions
Liver transplantation can be used as a treatment option for patients with unresectable liver metastatic GIST, and combined TKI-targeted therapy can prolong survival to a certain extent.
The Use of Natural Antioxidant, Cistus creticus Extract, on the Lipid Oxidation and the Shelf Life of Ready- to-Eat Cocktail Sausages
Authors: Pamuk Ayşenur , Gedikoğlu Ayça , Sökmen Münevver
Published: April 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The pattern of thyroid cancers in Nigeria: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Azeez Taoreed Adegoke , Iyapo Oluwadamilare , Folorunso Sharif Adeniyi , Onwudijor Chikodi John
Published: April 2022

BackgroundThyroid cancer is the commonest endocrine cancer. There are various histopathological types requiring different therapeutic approaches and having variable prognosis. The objective of this study was to determine the pattern of thyroid cancers in Nigeria.MethodsThe systematically searched databases were African Journal Online, Google Scholar, PubMed and SCOPUS. The pre-print databases Research Square, SciELO and medRxiv were also systematically searched. Moreover, the available grey literature was keenly searched. The meta-analysis was done using Meta XL version 5. The quality of the selected studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The DerSimonian Laird random effect model was used for the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity of the selected studies was determined using I2 statistic and the Cochran’s Q test. Publication bias was assessed with the LFK index and Doi plot.ResultsTwenty-six studies met the eligibility criteria. The total sample size was 1224. In Nigeria, thyroid cancer was most common in the 4th and 5th decades of life. It was 3.5 (95%CI: 3.0- 4.6, p<0.0001) times commoner in females than males. The pooled proportions of thyroid cancers included papillary thyroid cancer- 46% (95% CI: 40 -53), follicular thyroid cancer- 39% (95% CI: 32-45), medullary thyroid cancer – 7% (95% CI: 6 -9), and anaplastic thyroid cancer- 5% (95% CI: 3 -7). The trend showed a change from follicular cancer predominance to papillary cancer over the past two decades.ConclusionPapillary thyroid cancer is the commonest type in Nigeria. Thyroid cancer is seen more in females and it occurs most commonly in middle age.
Development and Validation of a Novel Mitophagy-Related Gene Prognostic Signature for Glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Luo Yujun , wang Jinghua , Qiu Xinqi , Huang Jiayu , Zhuo Zewei , Chen Hao , Zeng Ruijie , Wu Huihuan , Guo Kehang , Yang Qi , Ye Huiling , Huang Wei
Published: April 2022

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most malignant tumors in brain with high morbidity and mortality. Mitophagy plays a significant role in carcinogenesis, metastasis, and invasion. In our study, we aim to construct a mitophagy-related risk model to predict prognosis in GBM. Methods: RNA-seq data combined with clinical information were downloaded from TCGA. The 4-gene risk model and nomograph was then constructed and validated in external cohort. Evaluation of immune infiltration, functional enrichment and tumor microenvironment (TME) were then performed. Result: A mitophagy-related risk model was established and patients in TCGA and CGGA were classified into low-risk and high-risk groups. In both cohorts, patients in low-risk group had improved survival, while high-risk group have poor prognosis. Also, the risk model was identified as an independent factor for predicting overall survival via Cox regression. Furthermore, a prognostic nomogram including mitophagy signatures was established with excellent predictive performance. In addition, the risk model was closely associated with regulation of immune infiltration as well as TME. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study constructed a mitophagy-related risk model, which can be utilized for the clinical prognostic prediction in GBM.
Integrated Micro-CT and DNA-based study reveals Cenozoic origin of mayfly genus Calliarcys and its systematic position within Leptophlebiinae (Insecta: Ephemeroptera)
Authors: Godunko Roman J. , Alba-Tercedor Javier , Grabowski Michal , Rewicz Tomasz , Staniczek Arnold H.
Published: April 2022

Mayflies (Ephemeroptera) are among the oldest pterygote insects, with the earliest fossils dating back to the Late Carboniferous. Within mayflies, Leptophlebiidae are a highly diverse and widespread group, with approximately 140 genera and 640 species. Whereas taxonomy, systematics, and phylogeny of extant Leptophlebiidae are in the focus of extensive studies, little is known about leptophlebiid fossil taxa. Because fossil remains of Ephemeroptera in sedimentary rocks are relatively rare, inclusions of mayflies in amber are a unique source of information on their evolution and diversity in the past. Leptophlebiidae found in Cenozoic resins mostly belong to the subfamilies Leptophlebiinae (in Eocene Baltic amber) and Atalophlebiinae (in Miocene Dominican and Mexican ambers). In the present contribution, we confirm the first finding of the genus Calliarcys from Eocene Baltic amber by using Micro-CT, which allowed confirming its generic placement by visualizing diagnostic key characters otherwise hidden by a cloud of turbidity. The description and morphological reconstruction of the new fossil species Calliarcys antiquus sp. nov. and new molecular data of the extant Calliarcys humilis Eaton, 1881 from the Iberian Peninsula do not support a distinct subfamily Calliarcyinae, but reveal close relationships to the genera Leptophlebia and Paraleptophlebia, thus suggesting a phylogenetic position of Calliarcys within Leptophlebiinae.
Prevalence and Determinants of Home Delivery Among Reproductive age women, Margibi County, Liberia, 2020
Authors: Maximore Leroy S. , Mohammed Abdul Gafaru , Issahaku Gyesi Razak , Sackey Samuel , Kenu Ernest
Published: April 2022

Background: The use of institutional delivery services is essential for improving maternal and child health. However, studies in Liberia reveal over 20% of women still deliver at home. We assessed the prevalence and associated factors of home delivery among women of reproductive age in Margibi County, Liberia.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 384 women of reproductive age in Margibi County. Data were obtained using a semi-structured questionnaire. A systematic random sampling approach was used to select the participants for the study. We performed binary logistic regression to identify factors influencing home delivery. Findings were summarized into tables displaying the frequencies, percentages, crude, and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Prevalence of home delivery in the County was 90.6% (95% CI = 87.5 – 93.0). Women who were ≥ 31 years (aOR = 6.74, 95%CI = 2.86 - 15.90), women who had two or more children (aOR = 15.77, 95%CI = 3.95 – 62.89) and those who had rapid onset of labor (aOR = 6.35, 95%CI = 1.59 – 25.27) were associated with increased odds of home delivery. Good attitude of health workers (aOR = 0.01, 95%CI = 0.001 – 0.08) and the constant availability of transport to the nearest health facility (aOR = 0.01, 95%CI = 0.003 – 0.03) were factors associated with a decreased odds of home delivery among the study participants.Conclusion: The high prevalence of home delivery in the county is a call for urgent interventions by the government of Liberia and various non-governmental organizations. The government may need to supply the county with ambulances and ensure in-service training of health workers on good attitudes.
Risk factors of dermatomyositis complicated with interstitial pneumonia
Authors: Nie Jing , Yang Xu , Ren Shuai , Liu Yan , Wang Lina
Published: April 2022

Aim
To investigate the clinical characteristics and related risk factors of dermatomyositis(DM) complicated with interstitial pneumonia(ILD).
Methods
The clinical data of 105 patients with dermatomyositis were hospitalized in the respiratory department or rheumatic Immunology Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from January 2018 to December 2021 and underwent pulmonary imaging examination were retrospectively analyzed. The hospital medical record room records were used as the data source, including 55 cases in the DM-ILD group and 50 cases in DM without the ILD group as the control group.
Results
there were significant differences in ESR, C-reactive protein, KL-6, cough, chest tightness/shortness of breath, and Velcro rale between the two groups (P < 0.05); Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the increase of KL-6 was an independent risk factor for DM-ILD.
Conclusion
the increase of KL-6 in patients with dermatomyositis should be vigilant against ILD occurrence.
Cross-diffusion induced spatio-temporal patterns in Schnakenberg reaction-diffusion model
Authors: Yang Rui
Published: April 2022

Schnakenberg system is a typical mathematical model to describe activator-depleted kinetics. In this paper, by introducing linear cross-diffusion into Schnakenberg system, we derive cross-diffusion-driven Turing instability conditions. It has been revealed that it is no longer necessary to have long-range inhibition and short-range activation for Turing instability with the help of cross-diffusion. Then the multiple scales method is applied to obtain the amplitude equations at the critical value of Turing bifurcation, which help us to derive parameter space more specific where certain patterns such as hexagon-like pattern, stripe-like pattern and the coexistence pattern will emerge. Furthermore, the numerical simulations in both Turing instability region and Turing-Hopf region provide an indication of the wealth of patterns that the system can exhibit. Besides, different initial conditions are employed to help better understanding the complex patterns.
Pulmonary BCG/TB infection in patients with chronic granulomatous disease - imaging characteristics from a single center in Shanghai, China
Authors: Yao Qiong , Zhou Qin-hua , Shen Quan-li , Wang Xiao-chuan , Hu Xi-hong
Published: April 2022

Background: In China, tuberculosis (TB) is epidemic and the Bacillus Callmette-Güerin (BCG) vaccine is administered to all the newborns, which may lead to BCG infection in patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). Infection of BCG/TB in CGD patients can be fatal and pulmonary is the most affected organ. Our objective was to assess the imaging of pulmonary BCG/TB infection in CGD.Methods: We screened 169 CGD patients and identified the patients with pulmonary BCG/TB infection. BCG infection was diagnosis according to the vaccination history, local infection manifestation, and acid-fast bacilli staining. PPD, T-SPOT and acid-fast bacilli staining were used for diagnosis of TB. Results: Totally 58 patients were identified, including TB (n = 7), solely BCG (n = 18), BCG + bacterial (n = 20), and BCG + fungi (n = 13). The onset of BCG disease was much early than TB. For those patients only with BCG, lymphadenopathy was the first and most prevalent feature. The most found location was the left axilla, followed by the ipsilateral cervical areas and mediastinal or hilar area. On chest CT, ground-glass opacities, multiple nodules and pulmonary scarring were the most common findings. For TB patients, the pulmonary infections were more serious, including large masses, severe lymphadenopathy, and extensive pulmonary fibrosis. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy, especially in the left axillary was the most common feature. Pulmonary infection of BCG were more common than TB in CGD patients, but much less severe.
Shear-thickening Polishing of inner raceway surface of bearing and suppression of edge effect
Authors: Guo Luguang , Wang Xu , Lyu Binghai , Cao Linlin , Mao Yuechu , Wang Jinhu , Chen Hongyu , Wang Jiahuan , Yuan Julong
Published: April 2022

Shear-thickening polishing is a non-traditional finishing method that uses the shear thickening effect by impacting the non-Newtonian fluid over the machining surface. As a result, it forms a velocity gradient that increases viscosity sharply, producing a flexible fixed abrasive tool to remove the material. Shear-thickening polishing is applied for finishing the outer surface of the rotary workpiece in previous work. The material removal distribution on the inner surface is completely different from those on the outer surface due to the different structure. The thickened slurry tends to form a relatively dense boundary layer on the surface, resulting in a decrease in the polishing quality and efficiency. The present study investigates the effect of impact angle of slurry and polishing velocity on polishing quality to obtain the uniform surface morphology of the ring's inner surface by the shear-thickening polishing process. The inner raceway of the outer ring of the tapered roller bearing 30203 was taken as the machining object. The numerical material removal model of raceway surface was built according to the rheological performance of shear-thickening slurry. A mathematical geometric model is used to explore the real impact angle of slurry. The model was able to accurately predict the experimental conditions, and the results of the simulation were in good agreement with the model's predictions. In the fixture, a guide block was introduced to guide the flow of the slurry, ensuring consistent material removal across the whole surface. The optimal experimental results show that the average surface roughness measured by Ra reduces from 300 nm to 42.9 nm in 30 minutes, which further drops to 11.16 nm in 90 minutes with a variance of 0.58 nm2. The conclusion could be drawn from the studies of this paper that uniform inner raceway surface of bearing is achievable through properly designed STP process.
A radiomics-based study for differentiating parasellar cavernous hemangiomas from meningiomas.
Authors: Wang Chunjie , You Lidong , Zhang Xiyou , Zhu Yifeng , Zheng Li , Huang Wangle , Guo Dongmei , Dong Yang
Published: April 2022

To investigate the value of the radiomic models for differentiating parasellar cavernous hemangiomas from meningiomas and to compare the classification performance with different MR sequences and classifiers. A total of 96 patients with parasellar tumors (40 cavernous hemangiomas and 56 meningiomas) were enrolled in this retrospective multiple-center study. Radiomics features were extracted from five MRI sequences using radiomics software. Three feature selection methods and six classifiers were evaluated in the training cohort to construct favorable radiomic machine-learning classifiers. The performance of different classifiers was evaluated using the AUC and compared to neuroradiologists. The detection rates of T1WI, T2WI, and CE-T1WI for parasellar cavernous hemangiomas and meningiomas were approximately 100%. In contrast, the ADC maps had the detection rate of 18/22 and 19/25, respectively, (AUC, 0.881) with 2.25 cm as the critical value diameter. Radiomics models with the SVM and KNN classifiers based on T2WI and ADC maps had favorable predictive performances (AUC > 0.90 and F-score value > 0.80). These models outperformed neuroradiologists (AUC, 0.756 and 0.545, respectively). Radiomic models based on T2WI and ADC and combined with SVM and KNN classifiers have the potential to be a viable method for differentiating parasellar hemangiomas from meningiomas. T2WI is more universally applicable than ADC values due to its higher detection rate for parasellar tumors.
The Perception of Parents with a Child with Sickle Cell Disease in Ghana towards Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Ampomah Menford Owusu , Atkin Karl , Flemming Kate
Published: April 2022

Sickle cell disease is a global health concern. In Europe and USA, where the condition is common, prenatal testing is a routine aspect of antenatal care and offered on the basis, of informed reproductive choice. Notwithstanding considerable advances in testing technologies, prenatal diagnosis for sickle cell disease is not common in Africa. There is a particular lack of research examining parental perceptions about the acceptability of antenatal screening. This qualitative paper explores the perceptions of parents, who had lived experiences of caring for a child with SCD, towards prenatal testing for sickle cell in Ghana. A purposive sample of 27 parents (four fathers and 23 mothers), were recruited via a sickle cell clinic in Accra, Ghana. Material was collected using semi-structured interview, using a topic guide that explored parental views on prenatal testing, along with factors influencing decision making about antenatal care. The findings suggest parents lack knowledge about prenatal testing. However, the majority would accept testing should the process be available and affordable. Parents believed the decision to accept screening should be negotiated between both parents rather than the extended family. The decision to accept testing did not mean that parents would use the information to terminate a child with SCD. They were more likely to use the test result to prepare themselves for the birth of their child. Parents accepted, however, that choice was important and that some parents may wish to terminate, given the impact of SCD on a person’s quality of life. The paper concludes that policy needs to establish and promote sickle cell prenatal testing awareness among at-risk populations, bearing in mind the cost implication of the technology and the importance of informed decision making, which connects to the parents’ experience of screening.
Risk assessment of heavy metal contamination in agricultural sites and river sediments within the vicinity of an operational Gold Mine in Vatukoula, Fiji
Authors: Diarra Ivan
Published: April 2022

A comprehensive study was conducted to explore the concentration and distribution of heavy metals in farm soils and river sediments around a gold mining area in Fiji with particular emphasis on ecological and human health risks. Representative samples were acquired from farm sites in Matanagata Village and the Nasivi river, both situated around the Vatukoula Gold Mine Limited (VGML), the largest operational gold mine in Fiji. Following aqua regia digestion and analysis by AAS, the average soil concentrations for Cu (110.4 mg kg− 1), Cr (136.2 mg kg− 1) and Cd (1.7 mg kg− 1), and sediment concentrations for Pb (69.31 mg kg− 1), Cd (1.82 mg kg− 1), Cu (88.95 mg kg− 1) and Cr (143.12 mg kg− 1) were found to exceed the recommended guideline values. Based on the geo–accumulation index (Igeo) and enrichments factor (EF), the farm soils were moderately contaminated with Cd while the sediments showed moderate to significant contamination with Pb, Ni and Cr. Ecological risk assessment confirmed moderate to considerable ecological risk in the metal–contaminated samples, with Cd and Pb generally presenting greater risk compared to other metals. Multivariate analyses including principal component analysis pointed to gold mining activities as a potential source for heavy metals in the area. Furthermore, human health risk assessment (HRA) indicated that while adults faced no significant carcinogenic or non–carcinogenic risks from metal exposure (HI < 1), children were at more risk from Co, Mn, Cr and Fe exposure, as well as potential carcinogenic risk from Cd (ILCR = 1.46E–04).
Effect of blastocyst morphology on the incidence of monozygotic twinning pregnancy after single blastocyst transfer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ge Xiaofei , Zhang Jiaxin , Shi Hao , Bu Zhiqin , Sun Yingpu
Published: April 2022

Background: Visual morphology-based selection for transfer is a currently common method with evaluation of blastocyst quality and prediction of pregnancy and live birth. The aim of this study is to explore whether blastocyst morphology [blastocyst stage, inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) grading] has an impact on the occurrence of monozygotic twinning (MZT) after single blastocyst transfer (SBT).Methods: All patients who obtained a clinical pregnancy after single blastocyst transfer between January 2015 and September 2021 were retrospectively included. Blastocyst morphology scores were assessed using Gardner grading system. Monozygotic twinning was defined as more than 1 gestational sac (GS), or 2 or more fetal heartbeats (FHB) in a single GS via ultrasound at 5-6 gestational weeks. MZT incidence associated with blastocyst morphological parameters was analyzed by multivariable logistic regression modeling.Results: The overall MZT rate was 2.46% (227 of 9229 cases), of which was the highest in blastocysts of grade A TE and lowest in those with grade C TE (grade A: B: C= 3.40%: 2.67%: 1.58%, P=0.002). The higher risk of MZT pregnancy was associated with higher trophectoderm grading [grade A vs C: aOR, 1.883, 95% CI 1.069-3.315, P=0.028; grade B vs C: aOR, 1.559, 95% CI 1.066-2.279, P=0.022], but not with extended culture in vitro (day 5 vs day 6), vitrification (fresh vs frozen-thawed ET), assisted hatching (AH), blastocyst stage (stage 1-6) or ICM grading (A vs B).Conclusions: TE grade is an independent risk factor of MZT after single blastocyst transfer. The effects of extended culture, AH, frozen-thawed procedures, blastocyst stage and ICM grade were not demonstrated.
Establishment and Evaluation of a Nomogram Predicting Risks of Missed Diagnoses of Colorectal Polyps
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Guo Haiyang , Tang Yong , Chen Lin , Wang Xianfei
Published: April 2022

Background: A missed diagnosis of colorectal polyps during colonoscopy may result in an interval colorectal cancer. The risk factors for a missed diagnosis or a method to predict the risk of a missed diagnosis of colorectal polyps during colonoscopy remain unidentified.Methods: The clinical data of patients who underwent two colonoscopies within 3 months at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College between February 2017 and August 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Independent risk factors for missed diagnoses were identified and a nomogram was established for predicting the risk of missed diagnoses. Prediction performance of the nomogram was evaluated using C-index and calibration curves, and its clinical application value was evaluated using the Youden index and decision curve analysis.Results: Independent influencing factors for missed diagnoses included age, endoscopist experience, bowel preparation, retroflected view, withdrawal time, number of polyps in the right colon, and number of polyps ≥6 mm. The C-index of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts was 0.763 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.724-0.807) and 0.726 (95%CI: 0.657-0.794), respectively. The optimal cut-off value of the nomogram calculated using the Youden index was 152.2 points. Under the cut-off value, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 67.1%, 75.7%, 45.8%, and 88.2%, respectively, in the training cohort, and 57.1%, 79.9%, 53.3%, and 82.3%, respectively, in the validation cohort.Conclusions: The nomogram provides a reference value for clinicians to analyse the risk of a missed diagnosis of colorectal polyps in individuals, identify high-risk groups, and formulate appropriate follow-up strategies.
Risk Factors for Ferritin Depletion in Post-gastrectomy Gastric Cancer Patients with Normal Baseline Ferritin Level
Authors: Chun Jin Ha , Kim Dong Jin , Kim Wook
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Decreased iron absorption is one of the most important post-gastrectomy complications. We identified risk factors for ferritin depletion in post-gastrectomy gastric cancer patients with normal baseline ferritin levels.Material and Methods: Among 716 patients who underwent curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer during April 2009–August 2016, 445 were enrolled in the study. They were followed up for ≥3 years without recurrence and without baseline ferritin depletion (FD) (≥15 µg/L). Based on postoperative FD, the patients were divided into the ferritin non-depletion (FnD) (n=199) and FD (n=246) groups. Risk factor analysis for FD was performed using clinicopathologic and surgical factors, baseline ferritin levels, and pre-menopausal patient (PMP).Results: PMP (FD vs. FnD=27 [13.6%] vs. 13 [5.3%], P=0.004), non-smoking history (FD vs. FnD=48 [24.1%] vs. 84 [34.1%], P=0.028), duodenal bypassing reconstruction (FD vs FnD=160 [80.4%] vs. 163 [66.3%], P=0.001) and lower baseline ferritin with cut-off 55.7 µg/L were significant risk factors for FD. Multivariate analysis revealed that PMP, type of reconstruction method, and baseline ferritin level were independent risk factors. FD in the postoperative period differed significantly according to risk categories (low-risk group: 0-1 risk factors, high-risk group: 2-3 risk factors). Regarding long-term nutritional aspects, no significant difference existed between the groups with respect to weight changes, but hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in the FD group.Conclusion: Postoperative FD is a common post-gastrectomy complication in gastric cancer patients. PMP, food passage through the duodenum, and baseline ferritin level can be used to predict postoperative FD.
Comparison of Continuous Versus Intermittent Enteral Feeding in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Heffernan Aaron , Talekar Chandrashekhar , Henain Michael , Purcell Liz , Palmer Michelle , White Hayden
Published: April 2022

Background
The enteral route is commonly utilised to support the nutritional requirements of critically ill patients. However, there is paucity of data guiding clinicians regarding the appropriate method of delivering the prescribed dose. Continuous enteral feeding is commonly used; however, a bolus or intermittent method of administration may provide several advantages such as minimising interruptions. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare a continuous versus an intermittent or bolus enteral nutrition administration method.
Methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed with studies identified from the Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases. Studies were included if they compared a continuous with either an intermittent or bolus administration method of enteral nutrition in adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Study quality was assessed using the PEDro and Newcastle-Ottawa scoring systems. Review Manager was used for performing the random-effects meta-analysis on the outcomes of mortality, constipation, diarrhoea, increased gastric residuals, pneumonia, and bacterial colonisation.
Results
A total of 5546 articles were identified and 133 were included for full text review. Fourteen were included in the final analysis. There was an increased risk of constipation with patients receiving continuous enteral nutrition (relative risk 2.24, 95% confidence interval 1.01–4.97, p = 0.05). No difference was identified in other outcome measures. No appreciable bias was identified.
Conclusion
The current meta-analysis has not identified any clinically relevant difference in most outcome measures relevant to the care of critically ill patients. However, there is a paucity of high quality randomised controlled clinical trials to guide this decision. Therefore, clinicians may consider either dosing regimen in the context of the patient’s care requirements.
Cluster formation between an oxadiazole derivative with metal nanoclusters (Ag/Au/Cu), graphene quantum dot sheets, SERS studies and solvent effects
Authors: Al-Otaibi Jamelah S , Mary Y.Sheena , Mary Y.Shyma , Trivedi Ravi , Chakrabory Brahmananda , Thomas Renjith
Published: April 2022

Interaction of an oxadiazole derivative with Ag/Au/Cu and graphene quantum dots with different solvents is reported theoretically. The adsorption energy is maximum for Cu6 cluster and minimum for Ag6 cluster. The asymmetric charge redistribution between DPMO and M6s produces an improvement in dipole moment values. The decrease in energy gaps of complexes increased conductivity and metal clusters can be used as a drug sensor. The solvation energies are higher negative in solvent media than in the gaseous media, indicating an enhancement in solvent medium’s stability. Wavefunction studies show that there exist significant noncovalent interactions between metal clusters and oxadiazole that facilitates cluster formation. DPMO is found to form stable clusters with graphene which is evident from the enhancement of Raman activity of the system through SERS also enabling it for sensing DPMO in a mixture.