bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing a text message-based intervention to support type 2 diabetes medication adherence in primary care: A qualitative study with general practice staff
Authors: Sharry Jenny Mc , Butler Karen , Bartlett Yvonne Kiera , Newhouse Nikki , Farmer Andrew , French David P. , Kenning Cassandra , Locock Louise , Rea Rustam , Williams Veronika
Published: August 2022

Background: The Support through Mobile Messaging and digital health Technology for Diabetes (SuMMiT-D) project has developed, and is evaluating, a mobile phone-based intervention delivering brief messages targeting identified behaviour change techniques promoting medication use to people with type 2 diabetes in general practice. The present study aimed to inform refinement and future implementation of the SuMMiT-D intervention by investigating general practice staff perceptions of how a text message-based intervention to support medication adherence should be implemented within current and future diabetes care.Methods: Seven focus groups and five interviews were conducted with 46 general practice staff (including GPs, nurses, healthcare assistants, receptionists and linked pharmacists) with a potential role in the implementation of a text message-based intervention for people with type 2 diabetes. Interviews and focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach.Results:Five themes were developed. One theme ‘The potential of technology as a patient ally’ described a need for diabetes support and the potential of technology to support medication use. Two themes outlined challenges to implementation, ‘Limited resources and assigning responsibility’ and ‘Treating the patient; more than diabetes medication adherence’. The final two themes described recommendations to support implementation, ‘Selling the intervention: what do general practice staff need to see?’ and ‘Fitting the mould; complementing current service delivery’. Conclusions:Staff see the potential for a text message-based support intervention to address unmet needs and to enhance care for people with diabetes. Digital interventions, such as SuMMiT-D, need to be compatible with existing systems, demonstrate measurable benefits, be incentivised and be quick and easy for staff to engage with. Interventions also need to be perceived to address general practice priorities, such as taking a holistic approach to care and having multi-cultural reach and relevance. Findings from this study are being combined with parallel work with people with type 2 diabetes to ensure stakeholder views inform further refinement and implementation of the SuMMiT-D intervention.
Afatinib plus osimertinib in the treatment of osimertinib-resistant non-small cell lung carcinoma: a phase I clinical trial
Authors: Miura Satoru , Koh Yasuhiro , Azuma Koichi , Yoshioka Hiroshige , Koyama Kenichi , Teraoka Shunsuke , Ishii Hidenobu , Kibata Kayoko , Ozawa Yuichi , Tokito Takaaki , Oyanagi Jun , Shimokawa Toshio , Kurata Takayasu , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: August 2022

Background
Conquering acquired resistance to osimertinib remains a major challenge in treating patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Thus, we aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of combination treatment with osimertinib and afatinib for patients with acquired resistance to osimertinib.
Methods
This open-label phase I study was a feasibility study of the combination of afatinib and osimertinib for patients with advanced EGFR-positive NSCLC who had progressive disease after receiving osimertinib. The primary endpoint was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). We enrolled patients who received afatinib at three different dose levels (level 1, 20 mg; level 2, 30 mg; level 3, 40 mg) combined with osimertinib at a standard dose of 80 mg once per day.
Results
Thirteen patients were enrolled in this study. The MTD was defined as 30 mg afatinib when combined with daily oral administration of osimertinib (80 mg). The most frequent adverse events were diarrhea (76.9%), anemia (76.9%), and rash (69.2%). Considering the toxicity profiles during all treatment periods, the recommended oral dose of afatinib was determined as 20 mg daily, with an osimertinib dose of 80 mg. For all evaluable patients (n = 12), the response rate was 7.7% and disease-control rate was 46.2%.
Conclusion
Combination therapy with osimertinib and afatinib was tolerable; however, the synergistic effect of afatinib with osimertinib may be limited in osimertinib-resistant patients.
Trial registration:
Japan Registry of Clinical Trials ID: jRCTs051180008, registered date: 08/11/2018.
MicroRNAs-26 and related osteogenic target genes could play pivotal roles in Photobiomodulation and adipose-derived stem cells-based healing of critical size foot defects in the rat model
Authors: Mohebbi Hanieh , Siasi Elham , Khosravipour Armin , Asghari Mohammadali , Amini Abdollah , Mostafavinia Atarodalsadat , Bayat Mohammad
Published: August 2022

Background Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) and human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSs) treatment are relatively invasive methods for treating bone defects. Specific and oriented cellular and molecular functions can be induced by applying an appropriate type of PBMT and ADSs. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of MicroRNAs pathways in the PBMT, hADS, and PBM+hADS based on promoting critical size fracture healing.MethodsA critical size femoral defect (CSFD) is induced in the right and left femoral bones of 24 rats. Then a human demineralized bone matrix scaffold (hDBMS) was engrafted into the CSFDs of all rats. Experiments are performed on 4 groups (12 rats per group): (1) Control (hDBMS); (2) hDBMS+hADS, hADS was engrafted into CSFDs; (3) hDBMS+PBM, the CSFD was exposed to PBM(810 nm wavelength, 1.2 J/cm2 energy density); (4) hDBMS+(hADS+PBM), hADSs were implanted into CSFD then were exposed to PBM. At 42 days after CSFD induction, the rats were killed and, the left and right CSFDs were removed for the mechanical compression tests, and molecular and cellular studies, respectively.ResultsThe results indicate that miRNA-26a, BMP, SMAD, RUNX, and OSTREX were more expressed in the treated groups than in the control group. Furthermore, the biomechanical and histological properties of CSFDs in treated groups were better than the control group. The correlation tests revealed a positive relationship between microRNA and improving biomechanical and cellular parameters of CSFDs in the rat model.ConclusionWe concluded that the MicroRNA-26 signaling pathway plays a significant role in the hADS, PBM, and hADS+PBM-based healing of CSFDs in rats.
RETRACTED: Contribution of a bonded scholarship scheme to staffing rural health facilities
Authors: MacGregor Richard Gavin , Ross Andrew
Published: August 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The declining trend in HIV prevalence from population-based surveys in Cameroon between 2004 and 2018: myth or reality in the Universal Test and Treat era?
Authors: Bekolo CE , Kouanfack C , Ateudjieu J , Bechem ET , Ndeso SA , Tendongfor N , Nsagha DS , Choukem SP
Published: August 2022

Background
HIV remains an epidemic of major public health importance in Cameroon but a decline in HIV prevalence has been observed according to population-based surveys conducted in 2004, 2011 and 2018. We sought to review current evidence for declining HIV prevalence despite increasing survival owing to ‘universal test and treat’ and to explore the reason for the decrease, particularly the role of behavioural change.
Methods
We conducted a secondary analysis using HIV prevalence, behavioural and social determinants data of the Demographic and Health Survey Program databases. Trend lines were fitted to data that were available for a minimum of three points in time during the 1991–2018 period. Regression coefficients, associated p-values and 95% confidence intervals were obtained using Microsoft Excel software.
Results
Overall adult HIV prevalence decreased significantly from 5.4% (95%CI: 4.8-6.0) in 2004 to 4.3% (95%CI: 3.8–4.8) in 2011 and further down to 2.7% (95%CI: 2.3–3.1) in 2018 at a rate of about 1.4% every septennium (β = -1.4, R² = 0.98, p = 0.03). Yet, the number of persons surviving with HIV increased from about 0.05 million in 1991 to 0.5 million in 2018 corresponding to an increase in access to antiretroviral therapy from less than 10% to universal coverage of 80% respectively. Concurrent reductions in risky sexual behaviours were observed: delayed sexual debut by one year, decreased sexual violence by 7%, decreased polygamous unions by 16%, decreased multiple sexual partners by 15.3% and increased condom use by 26.3%.
Conclusion
The observed decline in HIV prevalence is statistically valid and reflects the observed decline in risky sexual behaviour that need to be sustained by the National HIV programme. Though universal access to ART has increased the number of persons surviving with HIV, this has not led to an increased prevalence of HIV in a setting with a rising population.
Primary sternal chondrosarcoma local recurrence; tumor manipulation or self-seeding: When there's smoke, there's fire
Authors: Abdallah Farah A. , jalil Riad Abdel
Published: August 2022

Background: Primary sternal chondrosarcoma, although rare, is the most common malignant tumor of the sternum. Adequate surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment, which may compromise the chest wall stability and obligate for reconstruction. Local recurrence is common and increases the risk of distant metastasis. Case presentation: We report a rare case of a 60-year-old male patient diagnosed with primary sternum chondrosarcoma successfully resected as primary treatment with negative margins accompanied by two local recurrences at 11 months and 37 months from the original surgery which were managed with local resection and adjuvant radiation Conclusion: seeding theories has been increasingly reported recently including tumor biopsy seeding, self-seeding tumors and tumor manipulation seeding, our patient developed two local recurrences despite resection with free margins and no distant metastasis raises the concern for seeding.
Safety and genetic stability of African swine fever virus vaccine candidate “ASFV-G-∆MGF” in an in vivo “reversion to virulence” study
Authors: Blome Sandra , Deutschmann Paul , Forth Jan-Hendrik , Sehl-Ewert Julia , Carrau Tessa , Viaplana Elisenda , Mancera Jose , Urniza Alicia , Beer Martin
Published: August 2022

African swine fever (ASF) has gained panzootic dimensions and commercial vaccines are still unavailable. Recently, a series of live attenuated vaccines has raised hope for an efficacious and safe vaccine, among them “ASFV-G-∆MGF”. We tested the latter in a in vivo reversion to virulence study in accordance with International Cooperation on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products guidelines. Upon forced animal passaging, a virus variant emerged that was associated with transient fever and an increased replication and shedding. However, all animals were healthy upon completion of the study and reversion to significant virulence was not observed. The genomic changes involved deletions and reorganizations in the terminal regions of the genome. While our study underscores that in-depth safety characterization is needed for live ASF vaccines, one should still conduct a thorough benefit risk analysis considering all safety and efficacy aspects when assessing their use in disease control.
DDX43 mRNA expression and protein levels in relation to clinicopathological profile of breast cancer
Authors: Amer Noha , Khairat Rabab , Hammad Amal M , Kamel Mahmoud M
Published: August 2022

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most often diagnosed cancer in women globally. To meet the increased overall protein synthesis and for translation of particular pro-oncogenic mRNAs in order to survive, cancer cells appear to rely heavily on RNA helicases. DDX43 is one of DEAD- box RNA helicase family members. But, the relationship between clinicopathological, prognostic significance, in different BC subtypes and DDX43 expression remains unclear. Our aim therefore is to assess the clinicopathological and prognostic significance in relation to DDX43 protein and mRNA expression. Materials and Methods: A total of 80 females newly diagnosed with BC and 20 control females, that were age matched, were recruited for this study. DDX43 protein levels were measured by ELISA technique. We used a real-time polymerase chain reaction quantification (real-time PCR) to measure the levels of DDX43 mRNA expression. Levels of DDX43 protein and mRNA expression within BC patients were compared to those of control subjects and correlated with clinicopathological data. Results: The mean normalized serum levels of DDX43 protein were slightly higher in control than in both benign and malignant groups, but this result was non-significant. The mean normalized level of DDX43 mRNA expression was higher in control than in both benign and malignant cases, although the results were not statistically significant and marginally significant respectively. Moreover, the mean normalized level of DDX43 mRNA expression was significantly higher in benign than in malignant cases. In malignant cases, low DDX43 protein expression was linked to higher nuclear grade and invasive duct carcinoma (IDC), whereas high mRNA expression was linked to a poor prognosis.Conclusion: Our study explored DDX43 as a cancer marker in human breast cancer. It has the potential to be used in clinical settings as a disease progression marker.
Experimental demonstration of multiple Fano resonances appearing due to the interaction of plasmonic mode with waveguide modes in a mirrored array of split-ring resonators
Authors: Kamarauskas Andrius , Seliuta Dalius , Šlekas Gediminas , Sadauskas Modestas , Kvietkauskas Evaldas , Trusovas Romualdas , Ratautas Karolis , Kancleris Žilvinas
Published: August 2022

This work demonstrates the first experimental observation of multiple Fano resonances in the terahertz range in a system based on an array of mirror-symmetric split-ring resonators deposited on low-loss and low-refractive index polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) substrate. For the first time, selective surface activation induced by laser technology has been used to deposit a copper layer on a PTFE substrate with the further application of standard mask lithography for metasurface manufacturing.
WHY STOP? Quantifying Cognitive-Behavioural factors that influence the impact of PCR-POCT results on antibiotic cessation in ICU
Authors: Singh Suveer , Nurek Martine , Mason Sonia , Moore Luke , Mughal Nabeela , Vizcaychipi Marcela , Consortium WHY STOP
Published: August 2022

INTRODUCTION: Rapid Point of Care Tests for infection (POCT) do not consistently improve antibiotic stewardship (ASP) of suspected ICU infection. We measured 1) the effect of a negative PCR-POCT on antibiotic stop decisions, and 2) clinico-behavioural factors that prevent stopping.METHODS: Vignettes of antibiotic treated respiratory infection, with 4 distinct trajectories were presented to ICU clinicians: overall improvement, clinical improvement/biological worsening, clinical worsening/biological improvement, overall worsening. Initial and post PCR-POCT antibiotic decisions (stop or continue) /confidence levels were recorded. The PCR-POCT offer was voluntary but always presented and negative. Linear regression determined association of their final decision with influencing factors.RESULTS: Seventy clinicians responded. A negative PCR-POCT increased stop decisions in all scenarios (p<0.001) except improvement (already high); especially in discordant clin worse(49% pre-POCT vs 74% post-POCT). Inclination to stop was reduced by an ambiguous/worsening trajectory(p=0.015), initial confidence to continue(p<0.001), and involuntary receipt of POCT(p<0.001), not clinician experience or risk averseness. CONCLUSIONS: Negative PCR-POCT increases the inclination to stop antibiotics, particularly in ambiguous/worsening trajectories of ICU infection. Clinician intuition to continue and disinterest in POCT reduce its influence to stop. Highlighting and quantifying the predictive impact of behavioural-trajectorial factors can improve antibiotic stewardship and study design in ICU related infection.
Assessment of Condylar Positional Changes in Severe Skeletal Class II Malocclusion after Surgical-Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Yang Wen , Chen Yanbin , Li Jiaxuan , Jiang Nan
Published: August 2022

Objectives
This study aimed to determine the positional changes in the condyle in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of severe skeletal Class II malocclusion patients treated with surgical- orthodontics.
Materials and Methods
The measurements of TMJ space in 97 severe skeletal Class II malocclusion patients (20 males, 77 females, mean age, 24.8 years, mean ANB = 7.41°) were assessed using limited cone-beam computed tomography (LCBCT) images acquired before orthodontics (T0) and 12 months after surgery (T1). 3D remodelling of the TMJ and measurements of the anterior space (AS), superior space (SS), and posterior space (PS) were performed to determine the position of the condyle for each joint. All data were analysed by t test, correlation analysis and Pearson correlation coefficient.
Results
The mean AS, SS, and PS values after the therapy changed from 1.684 mm to 1.680 mm (0.24%), 3.086 mm to 2.748 mm (10.968%), and 2.873 mm to 2.155 mm (24.985%), respectively. The decreases in SS and PS were statistically significant. Positive correlations were found in the mean AS, SS, and PS values between the right and left sides.
Conclusions
The combination of orthodontic and surgical treatment makes the condyle move counter-clockwise in the TMJ in severe skeletal Class II patients.
Clinical Relevance:
Studies of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) intervals changes in patients with severe skeletal class II after sagittate split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) are limited. The postoperative joint remodelling, resorption and related complications remain unstudied.
Office Blood Pressure versus Ambulatory Blood Pressure Measurement in Childhood Obesity
Authors: Heijden Laila B , Groothoff Jaap W. , Feskens Edith JM , Janse Arieke J
Published: August 2022

Background
The prevalence of obesity-related co-morbidities is rising parallel to the childhood obesity epidemic. High blood pressure (BP), as one of these co-morbidities, is detected nowadays at increasingly younger ages. The diagnosis of elevated BP and hypertension, especially in the childhood population, presents a challenge to clinicians. The added value of ambulatory blood pressure measurement (ABPM) in relation to office blood pressure (OBP) measurements in obese children is unclear. Furthermore, it is unknown how many overweight and obese children have an abnormal ABPM pattern. In this study we evaluated ABPM patterns in a population of overweight and obese children and adolescents, and compared these patterns with regular OBP measurements.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study in children and adolescents with overweight or obesity aged 4–17 years who were referred to secondary pediatric obesity care in a large general hospital in The Netherlands, OBP was measured during a regular outpatient clinic visit. Additionally, all participants underwent a 24-uur ABPM on a regular week-day. Outcome measures were OBP, mean ambulatory BP, BP load, ambulatory BP pattern (normal BP, white-coat hypertension, elevated BP, masked hypertension, ambulatory hypertension), and BP dipping.
Results
We included 82 children aged 4–17 years. They had a mean BMI Z-score of 3.3 (standard deviation 0.6). Using ABPM, 54.9% of the children were normotensive (95% confidence interval 44.1–65.2), 26.8% had elevated BP, 9.8% ambulatory hypertension, 3.7% masked hypertension, and 4.9% white-coat hypertension. An isolated night-time BP load > 25% was detected in almost a quarter of the children. Forty percent of the participants lacked physiologic nocturnal systolic BP dipping. In the group of children with normal OBP, 22.2% turned out to have either elevated BP or masked hypertension on ABPM.
Conclusions
In this study a high prevalence of abnormal ABPM patterns in overweight or obese children and adolescents was detected. Additionally, OBP poorly correlated with the child’s actual ABPM pattern. Herewith, we emphasized the usefulness of ABPM as an important diagnostic tool in this population.
Socioeconomic status is correlated with adiposity in childhood cancer survivors.
Authors: Štrublová Lucie , Kepák Tomáš , Kuruczová Daniela , Holíková Marta , Bienertová-Vašků Julie , Kepáková Kateřina , Štěrba Jaroslav
Published: August 2022

Purpose
We examined the association between unemployment, cancer type and total body fat percentage in the childhood cancer survivors (CCS) cohort.
Methods
Survivors completed questionnaires on socioeconomic status; body fat percentage was assessed by bio-impedance (normal body fat percentage: 10–20% men; 18–28% women).
Results
The highest unemployment rate was in the group of CCS with a diagnosis of brain and spinal column tumours (72.7%). CCS after brain and spinal column tumours also had a significantly higher percentage of body fat than CCS with other diagnoses (p-value 0.0354). Survivors who did not undergo CNS-directed treatment were 5 times more likely to be employed (p-value 0.013).
Conclusions
Survivors of brain or central nervous system (CNS) cancer in childhood are at major risk of unemployment, which can affect their health and psychosocial integration. At the same time, this group has a significantly higher proportion of body fat than survivors of other diagnoses, which may have a considerable impact on the development of cardiometabolic disorders and their overall quality of life.
Trial registration:
This study was registered on July 29, 2022, at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05481229).
Implications for Cancer Survivors:
Interventions should focus on creating support programs that address labour market inclusion hand-in-hand with promoting good lifestyle and body weight reduction.
“Nine-step method” mastoscopic scar-hidden surgery on gynecomastia: a single-institution, large sample experiences
Authors: Luo，M Chengyu , Zhang Shuqi , Wei Changsheng , Guo Yang , Zhang Yajing
Published: August 2022

Background To summarize the experiences on the mastopscopic subcutaneous mastectomy for gynecomastia by "nine-step method" based on the "5S" goal and standardize this operation. Patients and methods: Between January 1st 2002 and October 31st 2021, a total of 2035 breasts of 1082 male patients with gynecomastia, of which 129 patients with one side, were underwent mastopscopic subcutaneous mastectomy. Results All patients were successfully completed the operation, and none of them was transferred to open operation. The operation time for unilateral breast was 12–28 min, and the average time was 17.7 ± 6.2 min. The amount of bleeding during unilateral operation was very small, about 5-10ml. The total drainage volume was 5ml ~ 50ml after the operation, and the drainage tube was removed in 3 ~ 5 days. The epidermal necrosis occurred in 0.3% nipple. 0.2% chest wall had a little ecchymosis in the upper- inner region of the breast. All patients had the normal feeling of nipples and areola, the smoothing and symmetrical chest wall, and the natural contour. There was no recurrence during the follow-up period. Conclusions The mastopscopic subcutaneous mastectomy for gynecomastia by "nine-step method" based on the "5S" goal has a short operation time, few surgical complications and good esthetics. It achieving the "5S" goals on the complete removal of glandular tissue(sweeping), small and scar-hidden incision are small༈scarless༉,good symmetry of bilateral chest wall (symmetry), normal chest shape (shape), and smoothing chest wall༈smoothing༉.
A novel homozygous missense substitution p.Thr313Ile in the PDE6B gene underlies autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa in a consanguineous Pakistani family
Authors: Aziz Nobia , Ullah Mukhtar , Rashid Abdur , Hussain Zubair , Shah Khadim , Awan Azeem , Khan Muhammad , Ullah Inam , Rehman Atta Ur
Published: August 2022

Background
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is one of the most frequent hereditary retinal diseases that often starts with night blindness and eventually leads to legal blindness. Our study aimed to identify the underlying genetic cause of autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (arRP) in a consanguineous Pakistani family.
Methods
Following a detailed ophthalmological examination of the patients by an ophthalmologist, whole-exome sequencing was performed on the proband’s DNA to delineate the genetic cause of RP in the family. In-depth computational methods, in-silico analysis, and familial co-segregation study were performed for variant detection and validation.
Results
We studied an inbred Pakistani family with two siblings affected by retinitis pigmentosa. The proband, a 32 years old female, was clinically diagnosed with RP at the age of 6 years. A classical night blindness symptom was reported in the proband since her early childhood. OCT report showed a major reduction in the outer nuclear layer and the ellipsoid zone width, leading to the progression of the disease. Exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous missense mutation (c.938C > T;p.Thr313Ile) in exon 12 of the PDE6B gene. The mutation p.Thr313Ile co-segregated with RP phenotype in the family. The altered residue (p.Thr313) was super conserved evolutionarily across different vertebrate species, and all available in silico tools classified the mutation as highly pathogenic.
Conclusion
We present a novel homozygous pathogenic mutation in the PDE6B gene as the underlying cause of arRP in a consanguineous Pakistani family. Our findings highlight the importance of missense mutations in the PDE6B gene and expand the known mutational repertoire of PDE6B-related RP.
A novel relatively high molecule durable flame retardant for cotton fabrics
Authors: Li Jinhao , Liu Yunlan , Chen Yajun , Ding Dan , Cheng Yao , Liu Kunling , Zhang Guangxian , Zhang Fengxiu
Published: August 2022

A relatively high-molecule, formaldehyde-free, and halogen-free ammonium salt of tripolyphosphoric acid (ATPPA) was synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The limiting oxygen index (LOI) of ATPPA treated cotton with 22.54% weight gain was 47.3%, decreasing to 33.2% after 50 laundering cycles (LCs), which still could meet the standard of flame retardancy. This showed that ATPPA could enhance the flame retardancy of cotton fabric efficaciously, and the treated cotton had excellent durability. Combining durability and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), the data suggested that the hydroxyl groups on cotton fibers reacted with ATPPA to form P-O-C covalent bonds. Surface electron morphology (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses showed that ATPPA had almost no influence on the structure of the cotton fabrics. Cone calorimetry and thermogravimetry (TG) analyses indicated that ATPPA significantly reduced heat release and promoted the formation of a char layer in the cotton fabrics. The ATPPA-treated cotton fabrics also retained excellent hand feeling.
Movement criterion of top-coal drawing mechanical parts for safe transportation of drawn coals on rear conveyor and accurate control approach for drawing opening dimension
Authors: Li Donghui , Li Dongyin , Wang Shen , Huang Zhizeng , Liu Qing , Zhang Xueliang , Zheng Lijun , Zhang Xuhe , Zhu Shiting
Published: August 2022

The accurate control of the top-coal drawing mechanical parts is of significance to realize the automation and intellectualization of top-coal caving process, while mastering the spatial motion law of top-coal caving mechanism is the premise of accurate control. The top-coal caving process is jointly controlled by hydraulic support height, extension length of the plug plate of hydraulic support, and the relative position relationship between rear scraper and hydraulic support. Those three factors dominate the top-coal drawing opening dimension and the drawn coal transportation height of rear conveyor. In this study, a 3-D numerical model of four- legs top-coal caving hydraulic support is established by using hinge and translator connectors for modeling the rotation behavior of joints and expansion-contraction behavior of plug plate. The spatial motion laws of the top-coal drawing mechanical parts are modeled under different support height (H), tail beam swing angle (α), and the plug plate extension length (l). The critical equation for evaluating collision between top-coal drawing mechanical parts and rear scraper is fitted by using Levenberg-Marquardt fitting iteration method. A database for describe the coordination of plug plate and the dimension of the top-coal drawing opening under different H, α, and l, is obtained. The sensor type and installation position for sensing and controlling the position of top-coal drawing mechanical parts are selected, the approach for calculating the tail beam angle based on travel sensor data is derived, and the approach for controlling the top-coal drawing opening dimension is proposed and tested in the field.
Comparative evaluation of various in-house protocols on diagnostic performance for paratuberculosis IS900 PCR
Authors: Gandhi Harshita , Jain Mukta , Gupta Saurabh , Singh Amit Kumar , Kumar Amit , Sohal Jagdip Singh
Published: August 2022

Background Paratuberculosis is a worldwide endemic infectious disease of ruminants that results in high economic losses. Public health concerns are also being raised with human Crohn’s disease. Therefore, control is becoming priority for governments. Control is largely dependent on “Test and Cull” or “Test and Segregate” policy. Hence, it is critical to assure the infection before making the decision. Commercial kits are costly especially in view of resource limited areas. Present study analyzed the performance various in house DNA isolation methods and PCR master mix combinations to optimize a protocol for confirmation of paratuberculosis bacilli shedding in feces. Methods and Results Present study included five protocols of fecal DNA isolation (chemical, bio-chemical, physio-chemical and physical) and three reaction mixes (based on Qiagen, Genei and Thermo 2X master mixes) in nine different combinations using additives and tested their performance for IS900 PCR. Spiked fecal samples were used to select the best combination of DNA isolation method and PCR master mix (PRM). Selected combination was used to test reference (positive and negative) fecal samples and field samples. Findings revealed that combination physical method of DNA isolation and Genei based PRM (with additives; betaine DMSO and BSA) had lowest limit of detection. Sensitivity was 83% and specificity was 100% in comparison to fecal culture. High prevalence (23%) was reported for paratuberculosis on field samples.Conclusion Optimized protocol has acceptable sensitivity and can easily be adopted in resource-limited laboratories. High prevalence of paratuberculosis needs immediate implementation of the control strategies.
Transcriptional responses for biosynthesis of triterpenoids in exogenous inducers treated Inonotus hispidus using RNA-seq
Authors: Huo Yonghong , Liu Dongchao , LI DEHAI , Sun Changyan , Wang Zhanbin
Published: August 2022

Inonotus hispidus is a traditional medicinal that grows in Northeast China and produces various economically important compounds, including polysaccharide compounds and terpenoids, triterpenoid saponins is the main bioactive component. Our research group has found that the accumulation of triterpenoids are affected by exogenous inducers. The experiment showed that the triterpenoid content of I.hispidus treated with 50µmol/LMethyl jasmonate(MeJA), 3%oleic acid and combination of 100µmol/L MeJA and 2% oleic acid inducers increased by 17.42%, 89.86% and 145.5% respectively. However, how exogenous inducers enhances production of secondary metabolites in I.hispidus is not well understood. In this study, the RNA-seq analysis was used to evaluate the effects of exogenous inducers on the expression of triterpenoid synthesis related genes in I.hispidus in liquid fermentation. This study is the first exploration to profile the transcriptome of I.hispidus after adding exogenous inducers, the generated data and gene will facilitate further molecular studies on the physiology and metabolism in this fungus. By comparative transcriptomic analysis, a series of candidate genes involved in the biosynthetic pathway of triterpenoids are identified, providing new insight into their biosynthesis at transcriptome level.
NEMA NU 1-2018 performance characterization and Monte Carlo model validation of the Cubresa Spark SiPM-based preclinical SPECT scanner
Authors: Strugari Matthew Evan , DeBay Drew Roderick , Beyea Steven Donald , Brewer Kimberly Dawn
Published: August 2022

Background: The Cubresa Spark is a novel benchtop silicon-photomultiplier (SiPM)-based preclinical SPECT system. SiPMs in SPECT significantly improve resolution and reduce detector size compared to preclinical cameras with photomultiplier tubes requiring highly magnifying collimators. The NEMA NU 1 Standard for Performance Measurements of Gamma Cameras provides methods that can be readily applied or extended to characterize preclinical cameras with minor modifications. The primary objective of this study is to characterize the Spark according to the NEMA NU 1-2018 standard to gain insight into its nuclear medicine imaging capabilities. The secondary objective is to validate a GATE Monte Carlo simulation model of the Spark for use in preclinical SPECT studies. Methods: NEMA NU 1-2018 guidelines were applied to characterize the Spark’s intrinsic, system, and tomographic performance with single- and multi-pinhole collimators. Phantoms were fabricated according to NEMA specifications with deviations involving high-resolution modifications. GATE was utilized to model the detector head with the single-pinhole collimator, and NEMA measurements were employed to tune and validate the model. Single-pinhole and multi-pinhole SPECT data were reconstructed with the Software for Tomographic Image Reconstruction and HiSPECT, respectively.Results: The limiting intrinsic resolution was measured as 0.85 mm owing to a high-resolution SiPM-array combined with a 3 mm-thick scintillator. The average limiting tomographic resolution was 1.37 mm and 1.19 mm for the single- and multi-pinhole collimators, respectively, which have magnification factors near unity at the center of rotation. The maximum observed count rate was 15,400 cps, and planar sensitivities of 34 cps/MBq and 150 cps/MBq were measured at the center of rotation for the single- and multi-pinhole collimators, respectively. All simulated tests agreed well with measurement, where the most considerable deviations were below 7%.Conclusions: NEMA NU 1-2018 standards determined that a SiPM detector mitigates the need for highly magnifying pinhole collimators while preserving detailed information in projection images. Measured and simulated NEMA results were highly comparable with differences on the order of a few percent, confirming simulation accuracy and validating the GATE model. The multi-pinhole collimator investigated in this study offers the optimal combination of resolution and sensitivity for organ-specific imaging of small animals, and the single-pinhole collimator enables high-resolution whole-body imaging of small animals.
Biological marker for the establishment of periodontal disease: Cross-seccional study in gingival tissue
Authors: Iglesias Déborah-Pitta-Paraíso , da-Silva Weslay-Rodrigues , de-França Glória-Maria , Barros Caio-César-da-Silva , Freitas Roseana de Almeida , Galvão Hébel Cavalcanti
Published: August 2022

Background The present study investigated the expression of COX-2, EMMPRIN, HIF-1α, and GLUT-1 in the gingival tissue, to verify if there is a correlation between the immunoexpression of these proteins and the changes caused by the inflamed infiltrate present in the gingival tissues. Material and methods A morphological analysis of epithelial changes (hyperplasia, exocytosis, spongiosis, and hydropic degeneration) was performed, as well as a semiquantitative analysis of the immunoexpression of COX-2, EMMPRIN, HIF-1α, and GLUT-1 in the epithelium and connective tissue of 60 specimens of gingival tissue. Results Epithelial immunoexpression to COX-2 was observed in three cases, while EMMPRIN, HIF-1α, and GLUT-1 were strongly expressed in the basal layer of the epithelium and gradually decreasing until the upper layers. In the connective tissue, COX-2 immunoexpression showed a statistical association (p < 0.001) with the gingival inflammatory infiltrate. In connective tissue, EMMPRIN, and HIF-1α exhibited intense immunopositivity, while GLUT-1 was negative in most cases. Conclusion COX-2 expression may constitute a biological marker of gingival tissues since its epithelial immunoexpression may indicate a greater propensity for the establishment of periodontal disease.
Effects of a one-week vacation with various activity programs on well-being, heart rate variability, and sleep quality in healthy vacationers - an open comparative study
Authors: Hübner Markus , Lechleitner Peter , Neumayr Günther
Published: August 2022

Objectives
This open comparative study aimed to analyze the effects of a one-week vacation with various activity programs on well-being, heart rate variability (HRV) and sleep quality in healthy vacationers.
Methods
52 healthy untrained vacationers spent a one-week vacation with regular exercise in East Tyrol. Exercise was performed on six of seven days. The study participants were divided into a) Group 1, playing golf (G), and b) Group 2 performing Nordic walking or e-biking (NW&EB). Well-being was measured with the WHO-5 well-being-index; stress and recovery status was obtained with the EBF-24-questionnaire (recovery-stress questionnaire). HRV-parameters were measured with a 24-hour-ECG (electrocardiogram). Sleep quality was derived from the EBF-24 questionnaire and sleep architecture from HRV-analysis. Examinations were performed one day before and after the vacation.
Results
Well-being significantly improved in the G group (+ 40%, p < 0.001) and NW&EB group (+ 19%, p = 0.019). The stress and recovery profile also improved significantly in both groups (stress-decrease: -43.7% G group; -44.7% NW&EB group; recovery-increase: +23.6% G group; +21.5% NW&EB group). Except for the SDNN (standard deviation of the NN interval), no significant change was noted in HRV-parameters. SDNN improved significantly only in the NW&EB group (+ 9%, p < 0.05). Sleep quality (+ 21% G group, p = 0.029; +19% NW&EB group, p = 0.007) and architecture (-10% G group, p = 0.034; -23% NW&EB group, p = 0.012) significantly improved in both groups.
Conclusion
A short-term vacation with regular exercise was well tolerated by the study participants and improved well-being, sleep quality, HRV and autonomic regulation.
Trial registration:
Registry and the registration no. of the study/trial: Approval was received from the ethics committee of the Leopold Franzens University of Innsbruck (AN2013-0059 332/4.8)
Optimal Capacity Utilization in Mobile Ad hoc Network with Adaptive Contention Window Management Scheme
Authors: B Surjeet , Gupta Nishu , Teles Ariel Soares , Alkhayyat Ahmed , Kalimuthu Rajkumar
Published: August 2022

Efficient channel utilization is the utmost challenge in mobile ad hoc network (MANET). Moreover, Medium Access Control (MAC) layer in MANETs experiences hidden and exposed terminal issues. During data transmission, there occurs increased energy consumption, overhead and many retransmissions because of the collision of Request To Send (RTS) packet. In order to solve this problem, we propose an algorithm named Fore-handed Collision Avoidance MAC (FCA-MAC). This protocol mainly focuses on the collisions detected at the destination. In FCA-MAC, the failed RTS packet detection is considered with Appeal for Request To Send (ARTS) packet. To reduce the delay, RTS collision and redundant re-transfer, we consider the minimum number of ARTS packets. To regulate the Contention Window (CW), an additional field factor named triumph factor is introduced in FCA-MAC which reflects the complete network state at the destination. Implementation of FCA-MAC is done using Network Simulator (NS2). Results reveal that the proposed FCA-MAC outperforms standard techniques with regard to various performance metrics.
Construction material classification on imbalanced datasets using Vision Transformer architecture (ViT)
Authors: Soleymani Maryam , Bonyani Mahdi , Mahami Hadi , Nasirzadeh Farnad
Published: August 2022

This research proposes a reliable model for identifying different construction materials with the highest accuracy, which is exploited as an advantageous tool for a wide range of construction applications such as automated progress monitoring. In this study, a novel deep learning architecture called Vision Transformer (ViT) is used for detecting and classifying construction materials. The robustness of the proposed method is assessed by utilizing different image datasets. For this purpose, the model is trained and tested on two large imbalanced datasets, namely Construction Material Library (CML) and Building Material Dataset (BMD). A third dataset is also generated by combining CML and BMD to create a more imbalanced dataset and assess the capabilities of the proposed method. The achieved results reveal an accuracy of 100 percent in evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and f1-score for each material category of three different datasets. It is believed that the suggested model accomplishes a novel and robust tool for detecting and classifying different material types. To date, a number of studies have attempted to automatically classify a variety of building materials, which still have some errors. This research will address the mentioned shortcoming and proposes a model to detect the material type with higher accuracy. The proposed model is also capable of being generalized to different datasets.
What do women with sexual interest in children (SIC) tell us about the assumed cause of their SIC, (non-)disclosure, and professional help? – Results of a qualitative content analysis
Authors: Tozdan Safiye , Hübener Greta , Briken Peer , Schröder Johanna
Published: August 2022

Research on women with sexual interest in children (SIC) is still rare. Especially little is known about women’s own theories about the cause of their SIC, their experiences with disclosure, non-disclosure, and professional help. We therefore aimed at investigating women with SIC using a qualitative research approach. We provided women with SIC with open questions regarding their own theories about what causes their SIC, experiences with disclosure as well as non-disclosure, and experiences with and opinions about professional help. Analyses were conducted using a qualitative content analysis method. Results revealed that participants mainly think that past experiences caused their SIC, e.g., abusive or non-abusive sexual experiences during childhood. Disclose of SIC was reported by 56% of the present sample and lead to rather positive consequences. Those who did not disclose mainly did so due to fear of rejection and/or stigmatization. A total of 30% already sought help due to their SIC and frequently reported negative experiences. One of the major reasons participants stated on how to reach women with SIC in order to offer professional help was the destigmatization of SIC. We recommend that women with SIC should be taken more seriously among research and in prevention measure.
Blazed subwavelength grating coupler
Authors: Guo Rongxiang , Zhang Shujiao , Gao Haoran , Murugan Ganapathy Senthil , Liu Tiegen , Cheng Zhenzhou
Published: August 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Characteristics Study of Mild Steel Electro-plated with Light Weight Zn-Si3N4 Nanocomposite
Authors: Akande I. G. , Oluwole O. O. , Fayomi O. S. I.
Published: August 2022

In most industries, Lightweighting has become a popular concept. Production of low-density components is presently seen as a technique for achieving improved handling and efficiency in manufacturing industries. Thus, low-density Si3N4ceramic particles were introduced into the matrix of zinc to produce low-density Zn-Si3N4nanocomposite films. After preliminary experimental runs, Zn-Si3N4nanocomposite coated mild steel samples were produced at 0.3 and 0.5 V, and at an invariable temperature of 45oC. The mass concentration of Si3N4ceramic particles varied between 7 and 13 g L− 1. The corrosion rate (CR) of the coatings was examined through the potentiodynamic polarization method in 0.5 M of sulphuric acid solution, while the coatings’ microstructure was studied using XRD and SEM. The wear volume (WV) and coefficient of friction (COF) of coated samples and an uncoated sample were investigated using a pin-on-disc tribometer. The samples’ electrical conductivity was studied using simple ammeter-voltmeter equipment. The potentiodynamic polarization test results signified that the thin films reduced the CR of mild steel from 12.3450 mm year− 1to 2.6793 mm year− 1, indicating noteworthy passivation of the films. The refined morphology of the coated surfaces as revealed by the SEM micrographs was ascribed to the dissolution and dispersion of nanoparticles. The XRD crystallographic phases of the coated samples also showed that the thin films possessed excellent texture, high stability and chemical homogeneity, and. More so, the coated mild steel samples exhibited lower COF relative to the uncoated sample. The thin film reduced the WV of the mild steel from 0.00508 mm3to 0.00266 mm3, which indicated that strengthening mechanisms existed between the steel and the coating interface. The electrical conductivity test further shows that the Zn-Si3N4film reduced the electrical conductivity of mild steel from12.97 Ω−1cm−1to 0.64 Ω−1cm−1.
Dynamic Simulation Analysis and Experimental Study of an Industrial Robot with Novel Joint Reducers
Authors: Wang Shisong , Deng Xingqiao , Feng Huiling , Ren Keqi , Li Fan , Liu Yucheng
Published: August 2022

Zero-backlash high precision roller enveloping reducers (ZHPRER) possess a wide array of potential applications in the field of industrial robot because of their high precision and efficiency. This paper presents a pilot study to verify the applicability of this type of reducers in industrial robots. An industrial robot was designed, whose joint reducers were the roller enveloping reducers. A dynamic model for this robot which accounts for the dynamic responses of the reducers was also established using multibody dynamics. This dynamic model was then used for analyzing the dynamic behavior of the joint reducers and the body of the robot under different operating conditions. Simulation results yielded from the developed model were verified by comparing them with the data obtained from experiments. The present study for the first time confirms the evident advantages of ZHPRER for industrial robotic applications. Meanwhile, the proposed dynamic model for the industrial robot provides theoretical support for the subsequent design of error compensation control.