bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Physical Therapists in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Le Thao Thi Thach , Jalayondeja Wattana , Mekhora Keerin , Bhuuanantanondh Petcharatana , Jalayondeja Chutima
Published: September 2023

Background: Understanding the risk factors linked to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) is crucial for enhancing health promotion and ensuring workplace safety among healthcare professionals particularly physical therapists (PTs). However, in Vietnam, there has been a lack of investigation into the relationship between risk factors and WMSDs among PTs. Therefore, this study was to determine whether potential risk factors contributed to the occurrence of WMSDs among PTs in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam.
Method: An online self-reported questionnaire on WMSDs was administered to PTs. They were enrolled into this study if they met the criteria: aged ≥22 years, having graduated from a PT program, a full-time job with at least one year of experience. To analyze the data, both unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined using logistic regression.
Results: Our study found that within the past 12 months, the prevalence of WMSDs was 76.4% (n=204/267): neck 58.4% and lower back 57.3%. Young PTs aged 20-29 years, limited education (<4 years), and short work experience (<7 years) had a 2-3 times higher risk of WMSDs. Adjusting for confounding variables, PTs who engaged in manual techniques/exercises, lifting/transferring patients, and maintaining awkward postures experienced a 5-7 times increased risk of WMSDs in the neck and lower back. Environmental factors, such as treatment tables, electrotherapy rooms, and the use of PTs modalities, and high stress were significantly associated with WMSDs. More than 50% of PTs adopted modified positions and implemented new treatment/techniques that did not aggravate their symptoms, as coping strategies.
Conclusions: This study identifies all potential risk factors associated with WMSDs, affecting the neck and lower back among PTs in Vietnam. We recommends that PTs and the organizations address these risk factors to improve PTs' overall health, retain skilled workers, and encourage them to continue working.
Pregnancy Outcomes and Maternal-Fetal Conditions in Patients with Autoimmune Diseases: A three-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Sun Meng , Zhu Manman , Wu Yibo , Xu Bingya
Published: September 2023

Background
Autoimmune disease is a nonnegligible factor of adverse pregnancy events. Our research aims to analyze the pregnancy outcomes and maternal-fetal conditions of patients diagnosed with AID, providing a comprehensive theoretical basis for clinical work.
Methods
90 pregnant women with autoimmune diseases who visited our hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 were included as the observation group, 100 pregnant women without autoimmune diseases were enrolled as the control group during the same period. Clinical data were prospectively collected and analyzed.
Results
1. Totally 190 patients were included, the average age of the patients was 30.29 ± 3.68 years (ranging from 23 to 43), the average duration was 1.84 ± 2.81 years (varied from 0.5 to 20 years). 2. There were no significant differences in age, gravidity, and BMI distribution among both groups, while there were significant differences in parity, number of mis-carriage, duration of disease, times of hospitalization during pregnancy, clinical symptoms and bishop cervical score at admission, statistically. The parity and cervical score at admission in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The number of mis-carriage, the times of hospitalization during pregnancy and the positive clinical symptoms were significantly higher than those in the control group. 3. There were 185 live births (97%). The preterm birth rate of the observation group was 18.89% and the full-term birth rate was 77.78%, compared to 2% and 96% of the control group, with significant differences. Weight distribution of fetuses in the study was statistically different, However, here was no difference in sex distribution. 4. The assisted pregnancy of the observation group was higher, while the premature rupture rate of fetal membrane was lower than that of the control group. Incidence of hemorrhage, infection and fetal distress in utero were also statistically different between the two groups. 5. Age, gravidity, parity, duration of disease, delivery mode, pregnancy complications were all related to the outcome of pregnancy. The incidence of miscarriage, asphyxia in neonates and complications during pregnancy in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group.
Conclusion
Pregnancy with autoimmune diseases leads to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Standardized management and multi-disciplinary cooperation are of great significance to improve maternal and fetal prognosis.
Bioactive Potential of Baby Corn Silk: in-vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Anti-diabetic, and Anti-gout Activities
Authors: HS Sahana , KG Vijayalaxmi , Chavan Mohan , Chavannavar Suvarna V , D Shobha
Published: September 2023

Purpose
To analyse phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, antimicrobial activity and α-amylase, α-glucosidase and xanthine oxidase inhibitory potential of corn silk extracts derived from the Syngenta 5414 corn variety.
Methods
Corn silk sample was lyophilized and extracted using 80% ethanol, methanol, water or acetone. Phytochemicals were qualitatively screened and bioactive compounds were identified through GCMS. Antimicrobial activities were evaluated using the agar well method for bacteria and fungal biomass method for fungi. The extracts were subjected to evaluation for their antidiabetic activity through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory assays, while their anti-gout potential was assessed through xanthine oxidase inhibitory assay, encompassing all four solvent extracts in the study.
Results
Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, sterols, protein xanthoproteic, and cardiac glycosides in the extracts. The Folin-Ciocalteu and AlCl3 assays demonstrated higher yields of phenolics and flavonoids in 80% ethanolic extract. Furthermore, the extracts remarkably scavenged reactive oxygen species like DPPH, ABTS and elicited considerable ferric ion reducing antioxidant power. GC-MS analysis identified 21 compounds in the 80% ethanolic extract, with 1,2,3-Propanetriol-1-acetate, n-Hexadecanoic acid, and 4H-Pyran-4-one,2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl- as major components. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated the ethanolic (80%) and methanolic extract's remarkable ability to inhibit the growth of Gram-positive bacteria and exhibit anti-fungal properties. The ethanolic (80%) extract exhibited an IC50 value of 0.70 ± 0.02 and 0.71 ± 0.01 mg against α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively, and 33.76 ± 0.43 mg against xanthine oxidase.
Conclusion
Corn silk exhibits potential as a valuable reservoir of natural bioactive compounds endowed with a wide array of health-promoting properties.
Effect of Psychostimulant Medications on Physical Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Alotaibi Mansour M. , Almutairi Anwar , Alhirsan Saleh M. , Alkazemi Afrah , Alharbi Maha , Alrashdi Naif Z. , Taqi Ahmed , Alamiri Bibi , Vogtle Laura , Alqahtani Mohammed M.
Published: September 2023

Background:
Cerebral palsy (CP) is prevalent non-progressive disorder that leads to impairment of movement (i.e., spasticity), posture, and balance, which affects movements that are required for functioning, such as walking and upper extremity tasks. Current medical treatments showed efficacy in improving motor performance but have considerable side effects. Emerging off-label use of central nervous system (CNS) medications for improving motor performance showed promising results in children with CP and other populations. The aim of this study was to describe a protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to examine safety, tolerability, and efficacy of methylphenidate (MPH) and modafinil on spasticity and motor performance in children with CP.
Methods:
A protocol study for a pilot, triple-masked, and placebo controlled RCT (class I trial following the American Academy of Neurology criteria) with blinded patients, outcome assessors, and intervention delivery team. Eligible children should be diagnosed with CP levels I and II based on the gross motor function classification system aged between seven and 12 years. Thirty-six children with CP will be randomized into three groups to receive: a) MPH (2.5 mg of MPH + 100 mg placebo), b) modafinil (100mg modafinil + 2.5 placebo), and c) placebo group (2.5 mg and 100 mg placebo), in addition to physical therapy for 12. Primary outcomes include the gross motor function measure-66 and the modified Ashworth scale. Secondary outcomes include the timed-up and go, five time sit to stand test, modified clinical test for sensory interaction of balance, and ten-meter walk tests.
Discussion:
This study protocol outlines a pilot (RCT) aimed at assessing the impact of MPH and modafinil on motor performance and spasticity in children with CP. The study aims to establish the safety and tolerability of these medications and expects to observe improvements in motor function (GMFM–66 and MAS) in the MPH and modafinil groups compared to a placebo group. These potential improvements could enhance the overall quality of life for children with CP and may have cost-saving implications for healthcare systems by reducing the burden associated with CP-related motor impairments.
Trial Registration:
This trial was registered in clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05675098).
Comparing Health Literacy, Health Anxiety and Coping Strategies of Nursing and Child Development Students
Authors: ELKİN Nurten , SARIKAVAK Talat
Published: September 2023

Objective
This study addresses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on both physical and mental well-being, focusing on health literacy, health anxiety levels, and coping mechanisms among students enrolled in nursing and child development programs at Istanbul Gelisim University.
Methods
Recognizing potential disparities in medical knowledge, the research encompasses nursing and child development students. The assessment tools employed include the Turkish versions of the Health Anxiety Inventory, COPE Inventory, and Turkish Health Literacy Scale (TSOY-32).
Results
Between September 2022 and December 2022, a total of 357 students participated in the research, with 49.3% (n = 174) enrolled in Child Development. Predominantly female (83.7%, n = 295), students from both departments displayed no significant differences concerning health anxiety and health literacy. However, the nursing group exhibited notably higher employment of denial and humor coping strategies. Coping strategies with the most considerable impact on health anxiety encompassed positive reinterpretation, emotional release through focus and ventilation, denial, and humor.
Conclusion
Findings from the study indicate comparable levels of health literacy across departments, albeit with variance based on academic level. The divergence in coping strategies is attributed to the demographics and social characteristics of the sample population, coupled with their age.
Translation and Psychometric Analysis of Urdu Version of Modified Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Health Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (MPCOSQ-U)
Authors: Zaman Rabbiya , Ehsan Sarah , Fatima Abeer , Obaid Sumaiyah , Shahzadi Javeria
Published: September 2023

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome is a metabolic disorder prevalent among females of reproductive age. The symptoms of PCOS profoundly affect the quality of life of these females. Outcome measures specific to PCOS are crucial to the management of these patients. The MCPOSQ is a validated tool to measure the health-related quality of life specific to PCOS. The purpose of this study was to translate the modified polycystic ovary syndrome quality of life questionnaire (MPCOSQ) and to determine the reliability and validity of the modified polycystic ovary syndrome quality of life questionnaire Urdu version (MPCOSQ-U).
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Islamabad/Rawalpindi. The MPCOSQ was translated to Urdu and validated by expert gynaecologists. The MPCOSQ-U and SF-36 were administered to one hundred eighty females with PCOS. The MPCOSQ-U was evaluated for internal consistency, test-retest reliability, factor analysis, face validity, content validity and construct validity.
Results: The average age (years) of the females was 25.27(1.83). The MPCOSQ-U showed excellent test-retest reliability and internal consistency (ICC2,1=0.95, Cronbach’s α=0.97). The content validity index (CVI) was 0.92. There was a statistically significant but weak positive correlation between MPCOSQ-U and SF-36 (r=.186, p=.012).
Conclusion: The Urdu version of the modified version of the polycystic ovarian syndrome quality of life questionnaire is a validated and reliable tool to assess the quality of life of Pakistani females with PCOS. This is an important step to cover the language barrier, which influences the outcome assessment in PCOS.
The identity of the benefits of the medical insurance system among the medical insurance- related professionals: A cross-sectional study of a northern city in China
Authors: Zhou Zili , Shan Linghan , Li Ye , Zhang Xin , Wang Jiahui , Jiao Mingli , Hao Yanhua , Liu Huan , Chen Yanguang , Wu Qunhong
Published: September 2023

Background:
The identity of the benefits of medical insurance system (IBMIS) can reflect the quality of the implementation of medical insurance policies and is valuable feedback during the deepening reform phase of medical insurance system（MIS）. This research aims to analyze the factors affecting IBMIS from the perspective of medical insurance-related professionals and to propose corresponding policy recommendations.
Methods:
In 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire survey (n=1829) in Heilongjiang Province to obtain the data. Interviewees were selected by multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine the factors affecting the IBMIS.
Results:
Overall, 66% (1,207) of medical insurance-related professionals had a high IBMIS. The logistic regression model showed that high IBMIS was positively correlated with the following dimensions: policy capacity (OR=1.562), financial burden (OR=1.512), and convenience (OR=1.300). The seven significant influencing factors (P<0.05) of the high IBMIS include: “Relief of financial burden for people with serious diseases”（OR=2.341）, “Medical insurance's ability to solve major problems that people expect” （OR=1.604）, “Governance capacity of the medical insurance administrative agencies and management Institution” （OR=1.499）, “Effectiveness of governance for off-site medical reimbursement issues”（OR=1.436）, “Effectiveness of medical insurance Payment Reform” （OR=1.399）, “The extent of information construction of medical insurance” （OR=1.361）, “Equity of medical insurance system policies” （OR=0.753）。
Conclusion:
The government should focus on reforming the medical insurance system in the following three areas: First, the management sector of medical insurance needs to continue to enhance its policy capacity, especially its ability to address the difficulties of the insured and its ability to collaborate in governance; second, it should continue to improve the affordability of out-of-pocket expenses for patients with serious diseases and expand the scope of reimbursement under the MIS to relieve the insured's financial burden; third, by strengthening the medical insurance infrastructure, the settlement service for medical treatment in other places will be made more convenient.
Soluble programmed cell death 1 protein is a promising biomarker to predict severe liver inflammation in chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Ou Mingrong , Zhang Weiming , Pan Jie , Guo Jianmin , Huang Rui , Wang Jian , Liu Jiacheng , Xia Juan , Wu Chao , Chen Yuxin
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims: Liver inflammation is important in guiding the initiation of antiviral treatment and affect the disease progression of chronic hepatitis B(CHB). Soluble programmed cell death 1 protein(sPD-1) was upregulated in inflammatory, infectious diseases and correlated with disease severity. We aimed to investigate the correlation between serum sPD-1 and liver inflammation in CHB patients and role in indicating liver inflammation.
Methods: 241 CHB patients who underwent a liver biopsy were enrolled. Correlation between sPD-1 levels and the degree of liver inflammation was analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to analyze independent variables of severe liver inflammation. Binary logistic regression was conducted to construct the predictive model for severe liver inflammation, and receiver operator characteristic curve(ROC) was used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the predictive model.
Results: sPD-1 was the highest in CHB patients with severe liver inflammation, which was higher than that in CHB patients with mild or moderate liver inflammation(P<0.001). Besides, sPD-1 was weakly correlated with AST(r=0.278, P<0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that sPD-1 was an independent predictor of severe liver inflammation. The predictive model contained sPD-1 had an area under the ROC(AUROC) of 0.917 and 0.921 in predicting severe liver inflammation in CHB patients and CHB patients with ALT≤1×upper limit of normal(ULN), respectively.
Conclusions: Serum sPD-1 is associated with liver inflammation in CHB patients, and high levels of sPD-1 reflect severe liver inflammation. Serum sPD-1 is an independent predictor of severe liver inflammation and shows improved diagnostic accuracy when combined with other clinical indicators.
The association of motor coordination impairment and social communication deficits in children with autism is mediated by executive function
Authors: Gu Tingfeng , Jin Chengkai , Lin Lizi , Wang Xin , Li Xiuhong , Jing Jin , Cao Muqing
Published: September 2023

Background: Motor coordination impairment could contribute to social communication deficits in children with autism (ASD). However, the exploration of the mechanism implicated in these claims has been limited by the lack of potential confounders such as executive function (EF).
Methods: We investigated the role that EF plays in the relationship between motor coordination and social communication in a school-aged autistic population via a structural model in a statistically robust manner. The results of questionnaires, including the Developmental Coordination Disorder questionnaire, the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, and the Social Responsiveness Scale, were collected to measure motor coordination, social communication deficits, and EF.
Results: A total of 182 ASD children (7.61±1.31 years, 87.9% boys) were included in the final analysis. In the model with EF as a mediator, the total effect (β=-0.599, P<0.001) and the direct effect (β=-0.331, P =0.003) of motor coordination function on social communication were both significant among ASD children without intellectual disability (ID), as were indirect effects through EF (β=-0.268, P<0.001).
Conclusion: EF partially mediates the motor coordination and social communication correlation among ASD. We suggest that motor coordination should be included in the routine evaluation of autism surveillance and rehabilitation procedures.
Radial access versus femoral access in percutaneous coronary intervention in elderly patients : A systematic review
Authors: Refa'i Rageed Al
Published: September 2023

This review was carried out to determine the best option between the radial and femoral access in percutaneous coronary intervention in older individuals. Studies considered were RCTs and observational studies which were published between Jan 2000 and December 2020, from which, studies comparing radial access with femoral access in elderly patients aged 65 years and older were selected. A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The search strategy included keywords such as “percutaneous coronary intervention”, “radial access”, “femoral access”, and “elderly patients. The quality of the included studies was assessed using appropriate tools for RCTs (e.g., Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool) and observational studies (e.g., Newcastle-Ottawa Scale). The risk of bias was evaluated across different domains, including random sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding, incomplete outcome data, selective reporting, and other sources of bias. A total of 10 studies met the inclusion criteria and were selected for analysis. These studies consisted of 5 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 5 observational studies. The total sample size across all studies was 3,000 elderly patients. The analysis indicated that radial access was associated with a higher rate of procedural success compared to femoral access in the elderly population (p < 0.05). Furthermore, radial access showed a lower incidence of major bleeding events, access site complications. Some limitations of this systematic review include the heterogeneity among included studies, as well as the limited number of available studies specifically focusing on elderly patients.
Sources of information on monkeypox virus infection. A systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: León-Figueroa Darwin A. , Barboza Joshuan J. , Valladares-Garrido Mario J.
Published: September 2023

Background
Monkeypox virus (Mpox) infection is a topic of growing interest today because of its potential public health impact and concern about possible outbreaks. Reliable and up-to-date sources of information that provide accurate data on its transmission, symptoms, prevention, and treatment are essential for understanding and effectively addressing this disease. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of sources of information on Mpox virus infection.
Methods
An exhaustive systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out using the information available in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and ScienceDirect databases up to August 3, 2023. The data were analyzed using R software version 4.2.3. The quality of the cross-sectional studies that formed part of this review was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI) tool. In addition, a subgroup analysis was performed based on the study populations.
Results
Twenty-three cross-sectional articles were included with a total sample of 24040 participants. The pooled prevalence of each of the included information sources was: social networks reached 58% (95% CI: 46-70%; 17227 participants; 21 studies; I2 = 100%); the Internet was 61% (95% CI: 44-77%; 14002 participants; 5 studies; I2 = 100%), radio reached 10% (95% CI: 07-13%; 8917 participants; 4 studies; I2 = 93%), television accounted for 24% (95% CI: 09-43%; 14896 participants; 8 studies; I2 = 100%), and the combination of radio and television accounted for 45% (95% CI: 31-60%; 4207 participants; 7 studies; I2 = 99%); for newspapers, it was 15% (95% CI: 05-27%; 2841 participants; 6 studies; I2 = 99%), friends and relatives accounted for 18% (95% CI: 10-28%; 16551 participants; 18 studies; I2 = 100%), the World Health Organization (WHO) accounted for 17% (95% CI: 07-29%; 1656 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 97%), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) accounted for 10% (95% CI: 03-21%; 2378 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 98%), and the combination of WHO and CDC websites accounted for 60% (95% CI: 48-72%; 1828 participants; 4 studies; I2 = 96%), and finally, scientific articles and journals accounted for 23% (95% CI: 13-34%; 4. 856 participants; 12 studies; I2 = 99%).
Conclusion
The study suggests that people access a variety of information sources to gain knowledge about Mpox virus infection, with a strong emphasis on online sources such as social networks and the Internet. However, it is important to note that the quality and accuracy of information available from these sources can vary, underscoring the need to promote access to reliable and up-to-date information about this disease to ensure public health.
Characterization of Prognostic Apoptosis-related Gene Signature to Evaluate Glioma Immune Microenvironment and experimental verification
Authors: Yu Hao , Yu Jiapeng , Wang Minjie , Jiang Xiaobing
Published: September 2023

Purpose Apoptosis-related gene has been demonstrated to modulate the cancer immune in recent studies. Nonetheless, comprehensive roles of apoptosis-related genes in glioma immune microenvironment (GIME) remain unknow. This article was intended to explore the prognostic of apoptosis-related genes in glioma.Methods Doxorubicin was used to induce glioma cells apoptosis, and four differentially expressed apoptosis-related genes were identified, namely CREM, TNFSF12, PEA15 and PRKCD. Kaplan-Meier analyses, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analyses and nomogram were established to construe the relationship between risk markers and the prognosis of glioma patients.Results Risk biomarkers were dramatically associated with overall survival in glioma patients. The high and low risk groups were in relation to immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoints. Somatic mutation and anti-PD-1/L1 immunotherapy demonstrated a worse prognosis in the high-risk group on anti-PD1/PDL1 therapy. In addition, the expression of these four apoptosis-related genes was verified by qPCR and immunohistochemistry, and the relationship between these four genes and apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry.Conclusions This research proclaimed the apoptosis related genes played a critical function in shaping of GIME. Assessing the apoptotic patterns of individual tumors will enhance our understanding of the infiltration feature of GIME and lead better strategies for immunotherapy.
Community Health Workers’ experiences of a package providing increased support and supervision - a qualitative study of a home visiting model in rural South Africa
Authors: Katzen Linnea Stansert , Skeen Sarah , Dippenaar Elaine , Laurenzi Christina , Notholi Vuyolwethu , Roux Karl le , Roux Ingrid le , WaluWalu Ncumisa , Mbewu Nokwanele , Borus Mary Jane Rotheram , Tomlinson Mark
Published: September 2023

Deploying Community Health Workers is a crucial strategy to improve health at a community level in low and middle income countries. While there is substantial evidence for CHW effectiveness, there is a need for more research on the mechanisms through which these programs work. Understanding CHWs experiences of how programmes function is important. This article examines CHW’s experiences of three key programmatic domains; training, logistical support and supervision. Data were gathered using a qualitative study embedded within a cluster randomized controlled trial of an enhanced supervision package delivered to government-employed CHWs in the rural Eastern Cape, South Africa. We interviewed CHWs (n = 16) and two supervisors. Three overarching areas and five sub-themes emerged from our interviews. CHW knowledge and confidence increased through additional training, that CHW motivation and community acceptance improved because of added logistical support, and that CHW supervision led to improved sense of accountability, feelings of respect, and sense of being supported. Our findings highlight the importance of a functional support system within which CHWs can operate, in a context where most CHWs operate in isolation and without support. CHWs receiving supportive supervision reported positive impacts on their motivation and ability to carry out their work effectively.
Sequential Bayesian-optimized graphene synthesis by direct solar-thermal chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Alghfeli Abdalla , Fisher Timothy
Published: September 2023

This work reports the use of a high-flux solar simulator that mimics the solar spectrum and a cold-wall CVD reactor to demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing a renewable energy resource in synthesizing graphene under various conditions. A parametric study of process parameters was carried out using a probabilistic Bayesian regression model and an information acquisition function to find conditions that yield high-quality product. Backscattered electron images and Raman mapping were used to assess the effects of growth conditions on graphene characteristic sizes, film quality, and uniformity. We report the synthesis of high-quality single-layer graphene (SLG) and AB-stacked bilayer graphene films in a one-step, short-time process with \(I_{D}/I_{G}\) ratios of 0.21 and 0.14, respectively. Electron diffraction analysis shows peak intensities that resemble SLG and AB-bilayer graphene with up to 5 and 20 \(\mathrm{\mu}\) m grain sizes, respectively. The optical transmissivities of SLG and AB-bilayer graphene fall between 0.959-0.977 and 0.929-0.953, whereas the sheet resistances measured by a 4-point probe with 1 mm spacing are 15.5 \(\pm\) 4.6 and 3.4$\pm$1.5 k \(\Omega\) /sq, respectively. Further scale-up of the optimized graphene growth area was achieved by flattening the insolation profile, leading to spatial uniformity up to 15 mm in radius. Direct solar capture for CVD synthesis enable a practical and sustainable option for synthesizing graphene films applicable for photonic and electronic applications.
First record of Ozolaimus cirratus (Oxyuroidea: Pharyngodonidae) infecting casque-headed tree frog Corythomantis greeningi (Anura: Hylidae) from Northeastern Brazil
Authors: SILVA CHARLES DE SOUSA , MORAIS DRAUSIO HONORIO , CASCON PAULO
Published: September 2023

The Ozolaimus genus is characterized by presenting a dorsoventrally elongated mouth, with two lateral lips, a long esophagus, consisting of a strong anterior portion, a short with a fusiform fold, and a thin posterior portion ending in a distinct bulb, anteriorly dilated intestine, and absent lateral wings. Between February 2014 and September 2016, eleven specimens of the anuran Corythomantis greeningi were collected manually in the Ecological Station of Aiuaba, Ceará State, Brazil. After analyses, nine specimens of Ozolaimus cirratus infecting the large intestine of the referred specimen were recorded. Knowledge is still scarce about the ecological dynamics of pharyngodonid parasites and their parasite-host relationships, thus this work is the first to record of Ozolaimus genus infecting the casque-headed tree frog Corythomantis greeningi from Caatinga biome, Ceará State, Brazil. Priviously, the only registered hosts of Ozalaimus parasites were iguanid lizards.
Immune cell proteomes of Long COVID patients have functional changes similar to those in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Peppercorn Katie , Edgar Christina D. , Kleffmann Torsten , Tate Warren. P
Published: September 2023

Of those infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), ~ 10% develop the chronic post-viral debilitating condition, Long COVID (LC). Although LC is a heterogeneous condition, about half of cases have a typical post-viral fatigue condition with onset and symptoms that are very similar to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). A key question is whether these conditions are closely related. ME/CFS is a post-stressor fatigue condition that arises from multiple triggers. To investigate the pathophysiology of LC, a pilot study of patients and healthy controls has used quantitative proteomics to discover changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proteins. A principal component analysis separated all Long COVID patients from healthy controls. Analysis of 3131 proteins identified 162 proteins differentially regulated, of which 37 were related to immune functions, and 21 to mitochondrial functions. Markov cluster analysis identified clusters involved in immune system processes, and two aspects of gene expression-spliceosome and transcription. These results were compared with an earlier dataset of 346 differentially regulated proteins in PBMC’s from ME/CFS patients analysed by the same methodology. There were overlapping protein clusters and enriched molecular pathways particularly in immune functions, suggesting the two conditions have similar immune pathophysiology as a prominent feature, and mitochondrial functions involved in energy production were affected in both conditions.
Critical LVEF and Possible Mechanism in Patients with Supra-normal Ejection Fraction after Primary PCI for STEMI
Authors: Xiao Hao , Mei Zhao , Feifei Zhang , Huiliang Liu , Kexin Yuan , Yi Dang , Shuren Li , Xiaoyong Qi
Published: September 2023

Objective
To explore the critical value of supra-normal ejection fraction after acute myocardial infarction primary PCI and possible mechanism.
METHODS
A total of 272 patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction admitted to the Heart Center of Hebei General Hospital from November 2016 to June 2018 who underwent primary PCI and transthoracic echocardiographic measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction ≥ 50% were included. All transthoracic ultrasound data of the patients were collected. The correlation between LVEF and hospital outcomes (death, cardiogenic shock) was analyzed. The ROC curve was drawn and the area under the ROC curve was measured. The critical value of the correlation between LVEF and in-hospital death was obtained by drawing the ROC curve. Clinical indicators between the two groups[the supra-normal EF group(LVEF༞critical value) and the control group(LVEF < critical value)] were analyzed.
RESULTS
Logsitic univariate regression analysis (OR) between LVEF and in-hospital death was 1.350(95%CI 1.078–1.691, P = 0.009). The area under the ROC curve between LVEF and in-hospital death was 0.846(95%CI 0.628-1.000, P = 0.018); The maximum Youden index was 0.701, corresponding to the critical LVEF of 67.5%, and the sensitivity and specificity of predicting nosocomial death were 75% and 95.1%. The proportion of women in the abnormal ejection fraction group [7(43.80%) vs 42(16.40%), P = 0.015] and the application of IABP [2(12.50%) vs 2(0.80%), P = 0.018] were significantly higher than those in the control group. The pulse rate [65.00(14.75) vs 79.00(20.00), P = 0.004], postoperative blood flow grade 2–3 proportion [13(81.30%) vs 253(98.80%), P = 0.003], and left ventricular end-systolic diameter [28.00(4.25) vs 32.00(4.00), P < 0.001] were significantly lower than those in the control group. Other results were not statistically significant between the two groups.
CONCLUSIONS
There is a subgroup named supra-normal EF with a higher mortality in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after primary PCI, with a cut-off value of 67.5%. Sex and coronary microcirculation disorder may be the promoting factors for occurrence and development of supra-normal ejection fraction.
FastQAFPN-YOLOv8s-based method for rapid and lightweight detection of walnut unseparated material
Authors: Kong Dexiao , Wang Jiayi , Zhang Qinghui , Li Junqiu , rong Jian
Published: September 2023

Pecans have rich nutritional value and high economic value. Fast and accurate shell and kernel sorting will improve the efficiency of its automated production. Therefore, we propose a FastQAFPN-YOLOv8s target detection network to achieve fast and accurate detection of unseparated materials. The method uses lightweight Pconv operators to build the FasterNextBlock structure, which serve as the backbone feature extractor for the Fasternet feature extraction network. The ECIoU loss function combining EIoU and CIoU speeds up the adjustment of the prediction frame and the network regression. In the Neck part of the network, the QAFPN feature fusion extraction network is proposed to replace the PAN-FPN in YOLOv8s with a Rep-PAN structure based on the QARepNext reparameterization structure for feature fusion extraction to achieve a trade-off between network performance and inference speed. To validate the method, we built a three-axis mobile sorting device and created a dataset of 3,000 images of walnuts after breaking their shells for experiments. The results show that the improved network has a number of 6071008 parameters, a training time of 2.49 h, a model size of 12.3 MB, an mAP of 94.5%, and a frame rate of 52.1 FPS. Compared with the original model, the number of parameters decreases by 45.5%, the training time decreases by 32.7%, the model size decreases by 45.3%, and the frame rate improves by 40.8%. However, some accuracy is lost along with the lightweight, with a 1.2% decrease in mAP. The network reduces the model size by 59.7MB and 23.9MB compared to YOLOv7 and YOLOv6, respectively, and improves the frame rate by 15.67fps and 22.55fps, respectively. the average confidence and mAP are little changed compared to YOLOv7 and improved by 4.2% and 2.4% compared to YOLOv6, respectively. The FastQAFPN-YOLOv8s detection method can effectively reduce the model size while ensuring the recognition accuracy.
A stochastic SIHR epidemic model with general population-size dependent contact rate and Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process dynamics analysis
Authors: Mu Xiaojie , Jiang Daqing
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this work is to investigate a novel stochastic SIHR epidemic model, which includes a general incidence rate and mean-reversion Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process. Firstly, the existence of global positivity of the solution is testified by Lyapunov function. Secondly, this disease will be eradicated if R0s < 1 . Otherwise, if R0* > 1, then the system has a stationary distribution, which means that the pandemic will persist. In addition, an explicit expression of the probability density function for a linear system near quasi-endemic equilibrium is obtained under certain conditions. Finally, a series of numerical simulations are carried out to validate the theoretical conclusions.
Association between type of immunosuppression and the incidence, microbiology and outcomes of ventilator-associated lower respiratory tract infections a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Bayon Constance , Kreitmann Louis , Martin-Loeches Ignacio , Póvoa Pedro , Salluh Jorge , Rouzé Anahita , Moreau Anne-Sophie , Labreuche Julien , Nseir Saad
Published: September 2023

Purpose
Ventilator-associated lower respiratory tract infections (VA-LRTI) are among the most common intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired infections in patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). Immunocompromised patients may have a lower incidence of VA-LRTI when compared to non-immunocompromised patients, but the influence of immunosuppression type on VA-LRTI has not been investigated.
Methods
Multicenter, international retrospective cohort study in 118 ICUs from 9 countries. Immunocompromised adult patients requiring IMV for > 48 hours were included and followed until ICU discharge (censored at day 28). Patients with hematological malignancies were compared to patients with other types of immunosuppression. The study objectives were to assess the association of the type of immunosuppression with VA-LTRI incidence, microbiology and outcome (ICU mortality, length-of-stay, and duration of IMV).
Results
Eight hundred fifty-four immunocompromised patients were included (median age 65 years, 57.6% males), including 162 with hematologic malignancies. Patients with hematologic malignancies had a lower 28-day cumulative incidence of VA-LRTI than patients with other types of immunosuppression (13.6% vs. 20.1%, adjusted cause-specific hazard ratio [cHR] 0.60, 95%CI 0.37–0.97), mostly due to a lower incidence of VAP (9.3% vs. 13.9%). The proportion of VA-LTRI cases related to multidrug-resistant bacteria was similar between groups. Occurrence of VA-LRTI was associated with an increased mortality and a longer ICU length-of-stay, but this effect was independent of the type of immunosuppression.
Conclusion
Patients with hematologic malignancies had a lower 28-day cumulative incidence of VA-LRTI than patients with other types of immunosuppression, mainly due to a lower incidence of VAP.
Treatment Outcome of Localized Prostate Cancer Using Transperineal Ultrasound Image-Guided Radiotherapy
Authors: Takai Kenji , Watanabe Ryota , Hyogo Ken-ichi , Ito Yuri , Minagawa Nobuko , Sato Yusuke , Matsuda Yoshikazu , Nemoto Kenji
Published: September 2023

Background
We report the results of a retrospective analysis of localized prostate cancer (LPCa) treated with transperineal ultrasound image-guided radiotherapy (TPUS-IGRT).
Methods
A total of 124 patients (median age: 74 y, 46–84 y) with LPCa who underwent TPUS-IGRT (Clarity Autoscan system; CAS, Elekta; Stockholm, Sweden) between April 2016 and October 2021 for curative/after hormone induction were enrolled. The number of patients by risk (National Comprehensive Cancer Network 2019) was 7, 25, 42, and 50 for low (LR), good intermediate (good IR), poor intermediate (poor IR), and high (HR)/very high (VHR), respectively. Ninety-five patients were given neoadjuvant hormonal therapy. The planning target volume margin setting was 3 mm for rectal in most cases, 5–7 mm for superior/inferior, and 5 mm for anterior/right/left. The principle prescribed dose is 74 Gy (LR), 76 Gy (good IR), and 76–78 Gy (poor IR or above). CAS was equipped with a real-time prostate intrafraction monitoring (RTPIFM) system. When a displacement of 2–3 mm or more was detected, irradiation was paused, and the patients were placed on standby for prostate reinstatement/recorrection. Of the 3135 fractions in 85 patients for whom RTPIFM was performed, 1008 fractions (32.1%) were recorrected at least once after starting irradiation.
Results
A total of 123 patients completed the radiotherapy course. The 5-year overall survival rate was 95.9%. The 5-year biological prostate-specific antigen relapse-free survival rate (bPFS) was 100% for LR, 92.9% for intermediate IR, and 93.2% for HR/VHR (Phoenix method). The 5-year late toxicity rate of Grade 2 + was 7.4% for genitourinary (GU) and 6.5% for gastrointestinal (GI) organs. Comparing the ≤ 76 Gy group to the 78 Gy group for both GU and GI organs, the incidence was higher in the 78 Gy group for both groups.
Conclusion
These results suggest that TPUS-IGRT is well tolerated, as the bPFS and incidence of late toxicity are almost comparable to those reported by other sources of image-guided radiotherapy.
Increased plasma lipopolysaccharide-binding protein and altered inflammatory mediators in overweight women suggest a state of subclinical endotoxemia
Authors: Metz Christine N. , Xue Xiangying , Chatterjee Prodyot K , Adelson Robert P. , Brines Michael , Tracey Kevin J. , Gregersen Peter K. , Pavlov Valentin A.
Published: September 2023

Chronic low-grade inflammation has been recognized as an underlying event linking obesity to cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, inflammatory alterations in individuals who are overweight remain understudied. To provide insight, we determined the levels of key circulating biomarkers of endotoxemia and inflammation, including lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), CRP, IL-6, leptin, and adiponectin in adult female subjects (n = 20) who were lean or overweight and had high cholesterol and/or high blood pressure - two important conventional risk factors for CVD. Plasma levels of LBP (a recognized marker of metabolic endotoxemia in obesity) were significantly higher in the overweight group compared with the lean group (P = 0.005). The levels of CRP, a general marker of inflammation, were also significantly higher in overweight subjects (P = 0.01), as were IL-6 (P = 0.02) and leptin (P = 0.002), pro-inflammatory mediators associated with cardiovascular risk. Levels of adiponectin, an adipokine with anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic functions, were significantly lower in the overweight group (P = 0.002). The leptin/adiponectin ratio, a preferential atherogenic marker was significantly increased in women who are overweight (P = 0.02). LBP, CRP, leptin, and adiponectin levels significantly correlated with BMI, but not with age. These results reveal the presence of subclinical endotoxemia and a pro-inflammatory state in overweight women and are of interest for further studies with the goal for improved understanding of women’s cardiovascular health.
Natural and artificial antimicrobial peptide designs: A comparative study of Mastoparan C and BP52
Authors: Phuong Hai Bui Thi , Hai Yen Do , Huu Viet Nguyen , The Anh Luong , Hong Minh Nguyen , Xuan Huy Luong
Published: September 2023

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small, naturally occurring molecules that play a vital role in the innate immune systems of various organisms, ranging from bacteria to humans. Additionally, artificial AMPs are also designed and synthesized based on the common structure-activity relationships (SARs) found in natural ones. As part of our ongoing effort to explore the advantages and disadvantages of each source, this study focused on two representative helical AMPs: Mastoparan C (MPC) and BP52. While the former is derived from the venom of the European wasp Vespa crabro, the latter belongs to a group of artificially designed AMPs inspired by the structure of two natural peptides, Cecropin A and Melittin M. Our preliminary data suggests that BP52 exhibits similar antimicrobial activity to MPC but demonstrates significantly higher potency against the A427 cancer cell line. Taken together with the shorter length and reduced toxicity to human red blood cells, BP52 exhibited greater potential in drug development compared to its counterpart, MPC.
Automatic generation of alloreactivity-reduced donor lymphocytes and hematopoietic stem cells from the same mobilized apheresis product
Authors: Wiercinska Eliza , Quade-Lyssy Patricia , Hümmer Christiane , Beifuß Josefine , Akarkach Karima , Poppe Carolin , Olevska Valeriya , Dzionek Julia , Lahnor Heike , Bosio Andreas , Papanikolaou Eleni , Bonig Halvard
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION In vitro or in vivo depletion of alloreactive T cells can facilitate haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Very satisfactory transplant outcomes were thus reported for TCRαβ/CD19-depleted hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) grafts.
The current semi-automatic manufacturing process on the CliniMACS Plus, although robust, still requires a significant amount of manual labor to be completed. Towards advancing and further facilitating large scale cell processing, a new TCRαβ/CD19 depletion module combined with the previously described CD45RA depletion module (to serve as allo-reactivity attenuated donor lymphocyte infusion) was established on the CliniMACS Prodigy.
METHODS We evaluated six apheresis products from G-CSF-mobilized volunteer donors which were split automatically by the Prodigy, one portion each depleted of CD45RA+ or of TCRαβ+ and CD19+ cells. We investigated critical quality attributes for both products. Products were assessed for recovery of HSPCs and mature subsets, as well as depletion efficiency of targeted cells using flow cytometry. Effects of apheresis and product age post 48 hours storage at 2-6 °C as well as freeze-thawing on product viability and recovery of WBC and HPSCs were assessed by flow cytometry.
RESULTS Ten sequential automatic processes were completed with minimal handson time beyond tubing set installation. Depletion efficiency of CD45RA+ resp. TCRαβ+ and CD19+ cells was equivalent to previous reports, achieving mean depletions of 4 log of targeted cells for both products. HSPC products retained TCRγδ+ and NK cells. 48 hours storage of apheresis product was associated with the expected modest loss of HSPCs, but depletions remained efficient. Depleted products were stable until at least 72 hours after apheresis with stem cell viabilities >90%. Freeze-thawing resulted in loss of NK cells; post-thaw recovery of viable CD45+ and HSPCs was >70% and in line with expectation.
CONCLUSION The closed, GMP-compatible process generates two separate medicinal products from the same mobilized apheresis product. The CD45RA-depleted products contained functional memory T cells, whereas the TCRαβ/CD19-depleted products included HSPCs, TCRγδ+ and NK cells. Both products are predicted to be effectively depleted of GvH-reactivity while providing immunological surveillance, in support of haplo-identical HSCT.