bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of underweight among children aged 0–23 months in Tanzania
Authors: Moshi Cypriana Cyprian , Sebastian Penina Joseph , Mushumbusi Devotha Gabriel , Azizi Kaunara Ally , Meghji Wessy Pirbhai , Kitunda Malimi Emmanuel , Kasankala Ladislaus Manaku
Published: January 2022

Underweight is the most dependable growth indicator for overall child growth. Tanzania has the highest rate of underweight children in East Africa, with 1.27 million children under the age of five suffering from the condition. This study aimed to determine factors that influence underweight in Tanzanian children aged 0–23 months. We used data from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS) 2015–2016 to conduct secondary analysis on a sample of 4,327 children aged 0–23 months. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, chi‐square, binary, and multivariate logistic regression were performed using the Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS version 25). Statistical significance was defined as a p‐value of less than 0.05. Multivariate analysis found risk factors for underweight children were as follows: child's gender, age, birth weight, mothers' BMI, level of education, and type of toilet facility used by the households. Females had a significantly lower risk of being underweight (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.48–0.81, p < .05) compared with male children. The odds of being underweight increase with low birth weight (AOR = 2.92, 95% CI = 1.92–4.43, p < .05), low mother's BMI (AOR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.34–4.58, p < .05), and low educational level (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.23–2.58, p < .05). Nutrition interventions such as growth monitoring, nutrition counseling, and nutrition education for parents/caregivers are critical to ensuring proper weight gain for all children under 2 years of age.
Developing an affordable hyperspectral imaging system for rapid identification of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes in dairy products
Authors: Unger Phoebe , Sekhon Amninder Singh , Chen Xiongzhi , Michael Minto
Published: January 2022

The objective of this foundational study was to develop and evaluate the efficacy of an affordable hyperspectral imaging (HSI) system to identify single and mixed strains of foodborne pathogens in dairy products. This study was designed as a completely randomized design with three replications. Three strains each of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes were evaluated either as single or mixed strains with the HSI system in growth media and selected dairy products (whole milk, and cottage and cheddar cheeses). Test samples from freshly prepared single or mixed strains of pathogens in growth media or inoculated dairy products were streaked onto selective media (PALCAM and/or Sorbitol MacConkey agar) for isolation. An isolated colony was selected and mixed with 1 ml of HPLC grade water, vortexed for 1 min, and spread over a microscope slide. Images were captured at 2000× magnification on the built HSI system at wavelengths ranging from 400 nm to 1100 nm with 5‐nm band intervals. For each image, three cells were selected as regions of interest (ROIs) to obtain hyperspectral signatures of respective bacteria. Reference pathogen libraries were created using growth media, and then test pathogenic cells were classified by their hyperspectral signatures as either L. monocytogenes or E. coli O157:H7 using k‐nearest neighbor (kNN) and cross‐validation technique in R‐software. With the implementation of kNN (k = 3), overall classification accuracies of 58.97% and 61.53% were obtained for E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes, respectively.
Functional connectome mediates the association between sleep disturbance and mental health in preadolescence: A longitudinal mediation study
Authors: Yang Fan Nils , Liu Tina Tong , Wang Ze
Published: January 2022

Sleep disturbance is known to be associated with various mental disorders and often precedes the onset of mental disorders in youth. Given the increasingly acknowledged bidirectional influence between sleep disturbance and mental disorders, we aim to identify a shared neural mechanism that underlies sleep disturbance and mental disorders in preadolescents. We analyzed a dataset of 9,350 9–10 year‐old children, among whom 8,845 had 1‐year follow‐up data, from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Linear mixed‐effects models, mediation analysis, and longitudinal mediation analysis were used to investigate the relationship between sleep disturbance, mental disorders, and resting‐state network connectivity. Out of 186 unique connectivities, the effect of total sleep disturbance (TSP, from Sleep Disturbance Scale) and mental problems (MP, from Child Behavior Checklist) converged in the default mode network (DMN) and the dorsal attention network (DAN). Within‐ and between‐network connectivities (DMN‐DAN, DMN‐DMN, DAN‐DAN) mediated the relationship between baseline TSD and MP at 1‐year follow‐up and the relationship between baseline MP and TSD at 1‐year follow‐up. The pathway model in which sleep disturbance and mental problems affect each other through two anticorrelated brain networks (DMN and DAN) suggests a common neural mechanism between them. Longitudinally, a less segregated DMN and DAN is associated with negative outcomes on mental well‐being and sleep disturbance a year later. These findings have important implications for the design of prevention and neurofeedback intervention for mental disorders and sleep problems.
In vitro bioactivity of 3D microstructure hydroxyapatite/collagen based‐egg white as an antibacterial agent
Authors: Patty Diana Julaidy , Nugraheni Ari Dwi , Ana Ika Dewi , Yusuf Yusril
Published: January 2022

The present study aims to design 3D scaffold hydroxyapatite (HA)/collagen (Coll) based egg‐white (EW) as antibacterial properties. The calcium source in HA synthesis derived from the Pinctada maxima shell cultivated on Bali Island has proven biocompatibility, and the compressive strength exceeded human bone. HA synthesis by precipitation with heat treatment in oven‐dried at 80°C (HA‐80) and annealed at 900°C (HA‐900), has crystallinity 48% and 85%, respectively, were used for scaffold design. The physicochemical properties of X‐ray diffractometer spectra showed that increasing temperature affected the crystallinity and HA phase formed. Furthermore, the crystal structure of HA changed in nanocomposite due to the substitution of Coll and EW, and the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra confirmed that the absorption peak of the phosphate group (1027–1029 cm−1) decreased intensity, presumably by protein binding of EW and Coll. The cell viability of HA/Coll/EW in 24, 48, and 72 h incubation period was 112.34 ± 4.36, 104.89 ± 3.41, 72.88 ± 6.85, respectively. The decreases of cell viability due to high cell density and reduced nutrients in wells. Antibacterial activity of HA/Col/EW exhibited a strong zone of inhibition against bacteria causing periodontitis; Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Staphylococcus aureus.
In sickness and in health: The functional role of extracellular vesicles in physiology and pathology in vivo
Authors: Yates Abi G. , Pink Ryan C. , Erdbrügger Uta , Siljander Pia R‐M. , Dellar Elizabeth R. , Pantazi Paschalia , Akbar Naveed , Cooke William R. , Vatish Manu , Dias‐Neto Emmanuel , Anthony Daniel C. , Couch Yvonne
Published: January 2022

Previously thought to be nothing more than cellular debris, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are now known to mediate physiological and pathological functions throughout the body. We now understand more about their capacity to transfer nucleic acids and proteins between distant organs, the interaction of their surface proteins with target cells, and the role of vesicle‐bound lipids in health and disease. To date, most observations have been made in reductionist cell culture systems, or as snapshots from patient cohorts. The heterogenous population of vesicles produced in vivo likely act in concert to mediate both beneficial and detrimental effects. EVs play crucial roles in both the pathogenesis of diseases, from cancer to neurodegenerative disease, as well as in the maintenance of system and organ homeostasis. This two‐part review draws on the expertise of researchers working in the field of EV biology and aims to cover the functional role of EVs in physiology and pathology. Part I will outline the role of EVs in normal physiology.
In sickness and in health: The functional role of extracellular vesicles in physiology and pathology in vivo
Authors: Yates Abi G. , Pink Ryan C. , Erdbrügger Uta , Siljander Pia R‐M. , Dellar Elizabeth R. , Pantazi Paschalia , Akbar Naveed , Cooke William R. , Vatish Manu , Dias‐Neto Emmanuel , Anthony Daniel C. , Couch Yvonne
Published: January 2022

It is clear from Part I of this series that extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a critical role in maintaining the homeostasis of most, if not all, normal physiological systems. However, the majority of our knowledge about EV signalling has come from studying them in disease. Indeed, EVs have consistently been associated with propagating disease pathophysiology. The analysis of EVs in biofluids, obtained in the clinic, has been an essential of the work to improve our understanding of their role in disease. However, to interfere with EV signalling for therapeutic gain, a more fundamental understanding of the mechanisms by which they contribute to pathogenic processes is required. Only by discovering how the EV populations in different biofluids change—size, number, and physicochemical composition—in clinical samples, may we then begin to unravel their functional roles in translational models in vitro and in vivo, which can then feedback to the clinic. In Part II of this review series, the functional role of EVs in pathology and disease will be discussed, with a focus on in vivo evidence and their potential to be used as both biomarkers and points of therapeutic intervention.
More questions than answers: Interrogating restricted access in the archives
Authors: Butcher Kacie Lucchini
Published: January 2022

This study is a reflective piece that grew out of the Archival Kismet Conference in April of 2021. What happens when you find your “archival kismet”—the document that is essential to your research—and it is restricted? In conjunction with archival silences, how do these restrictions affect our ability to understand the past? I begin with these questions and use two case studies to challenge and complicate the practice of restricted access in archives. Using a dialogic approach, I provide a set of questions and considerations groups can use to begin to probe materials with archival restrictions. I urge a reflective and collaborative approach between archivists, public historians, and community to re‐evaluate the practice of archival restrictions.
Early structural brain development in infants exposed to HIV and antiretroviral therapy in utero in a South African birth cohort
Authors: Wedderburn Catherine J. , Groenewold Nynke A. , Roos Annerine , Yeung Shunmay , Fouche Jean‐Paul , Rehman Andrea M. , Gibb Diana M. , Narr Katherine L. , Zar Heather J. , Stein Dan J. , Donald Kirsten A.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

There is a growing population of children who are HIV‐exposed and uninfected (HEU) with the successful expansion of antiretroviral therapy (ART) use in pregnancy. Children who are HEU are at risk of delayed neurodevelopment; however, there is limited research on early brain growth and maturation. We aimed to investigate the effects of in utero exposure to HIV/ART on brain structure of infants who are HEU compared to HIV‐unexposed (HU).

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging using a T2‐weighted sequence was undertaken in a subgroup of infants aged 2–6 weeks enrolled in the Drakenstein Child Health Study birth cohort, South Africa, between 2012 and 2015. Mother–child pairs received antenatal and postnatal HIV testing and ART per local guidelines. We compared subcortical and total grey matter volumes between HEU and HU groups using multivariable linear regression adjusting for infant age, sex, intracranial volume and socio‐economic variables. We further assessed associations between brain volumes with maternal CD4 cell count and ART exposure.

Results

One hundred forty‐six infants (40 HEU; 106 HU) with high‐resolution images were included in this analysis (mean age 3 weeks; 50.7% male). All infants who were HEU were exposed to ART (88% maternal triple ART). Infants who were HEU had smaller caudate volumes bilaterally (5.4% reduction, p < 0.05) compared to HU infants. There were no group differences in other subcortical volumes (all p > 0.2). Total grey matter volume was also reduced in infants who were HEU (2.1% reduction, p < 0.05). Exploratory analyses showed that low maternal CD4 cell count (<350 cells/mm3) was associated with decreased infant grey matter volumes. There was no relationship between timing of ART exposure and grey matter volumes.

Conclusions

Lower caudate and total grey matter volumes were found in infants who were HEU compared to HU in the first weeks of life, and maternal immunosuppression was associated with reduced volumes. These findings suggest that antenatal HIV exposure may impact early structural brain development and improved antenatal HIV management may have the potential to optimize neurodevelopmental outcomes of children who are HEU.
An insight into fruit aroma volatilome during postharvest maturation in two popular Musa cultivars of tropics
Authors: Mukherjee Subhadip , Pal Ananya , Mitra Adinpunya
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Banana is one of the major global horticultural fruit crops cultivated in the humid tropics and subtropics. Fruit quality and consumer acceptability of any climacteric fruit depend mainly on its postharvest aroma volatile profiles. The present study aimed to profile fruit volatiles status during postharvest storage of two banana cultivars: Kanthali (Musa sp. cv. Kanthali, Kt) and Kacha Kela (Musa sp. cv. Kacha Kela, Kk) from the ABB genome group.

RESULTS

Both cultivars showed differences in the soluble sugar contents, with Kt being higher than Kk. The volatile compounds were profiled from the pulp as emitted, endogenous and glycosyl‐bound forms, along with peel‐endogenous and whole fruit volatiles during postharvest storage. Both cultivars showed a wide range of variations in volatile aroma pools; nevertheless, esters and aliphatic compounds were found to be the major contributors of fruit volatiles in Kt and Kk, respectively. The pulp‐endogenous volatiles served as the major pool, which showed a sharp decline with a corresponding increase of emission. Many volatiles were found to be glycosylated during early postharvest storage, with de‐glycosylation occurring with an increase in storage time, resulting in fruit softening and a concurrent supply of sugar bound volatiles towards emission.

CONCLUSION

As a whole, the study outcome provides an overview of fruit volatilome during postharvest storage and suggests a possible inter‐linking among the volatile components in the cultivars. It is plausible that the release of aroma volatiles from pulp is mediated via peel, with volatiles accumulating as peel‐endogenous volatiles representing the temporary pool reservoir. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Early Lung Ultrasound Findings in Patients With COVID‐19 Pneumonia: A Retrospective Multicenter Study of 479 Patients
Authors: Caroselli Costantino , Blaivas Michael , Marcosignori Matteo , Tung Chen Yale , Falzetti Sara , Mariz José , Fiorentino Romano , Pinto Silva Rafael , Gomes Cochicho Joana , Sebastiani Simone , Carlini Mauro , Polati Enrico , Simonini Valentina , Malagola Sara , Raffaldi Irene , Longo Daniele
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Lung ultrasound (LUS) holds the promise of an accurate, radiation‐free, and affordable diagnostic and monitoring tool in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pneumonia. We sought to evaluate the usefulness of LUS in the diagnosis of patients with respiratory distress and suspicion of interstitial severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pneumonia, in comparison to other imaging modalities.

Methods

This was a multicenter, retrospective study. LUS was performed, on Emergency Department (ED) arrival of patients presenting for possible COVID‐19 evaluation, by trained emergency physicians, before undergoing conventional radiologic examination or while waiting for the report. Scans were performed using longitudinal transducer orientation of the lung regions. CXR was interpreted by radiologists staffing ED radiology. Subjects were divided into two group based on molecular test results. LUS findings were compared to COVID test results, nonlaboratory data, and other imaging for each patient. Categorical variables were expressed as percentages and continuous variables as median ± standard error.

Results

A total of 479 patients were enrolled, 87% diagnosed with SARS‐CoV‐2 by molecular testing. COVID positive and COVID negative patients differed with respect to sex, presence of fever, and white blood cells count. Most common findings on lung point of care ultrasound (POCUS) for COVID‐positive patients were B‐lines, irregular pleural lines, and small consolidation. Normal chest X‐ray was found in 17.89% of cases.

Conclusions

This 479 patient cohort, with COVID‐19, found LUS to be noninferior to chest X‐ray (CXR) for diagnostic accuracy. In this study, COVID‐positive patients are most likely to show B lines and sub‐pleural consolidations on LUS examination.
Differential survival in the presence of spatially structured ptarmigan harvest suggests additive mortality
Authors: Frye Graham G. , Lindberg Mark S. , Merizon Richard A.
Published: January 2022

The effects of hunting on wildlife populations vary dramatically, depending on the timing and magnitude of harvest, and population‐specific states and vital rates. We examined the hypothesis that spatially and seasonally concentrated harvest decreases annual survival probabilities of willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus). We estimated survival of radio‐marked willow ptarmigan at 2 categories of sites: those where ptarmigan were easily accessible and heavily hunted and those that were remote and received little or no hunting pressure in Alaska, USA. We predicted that seasonal survival estimates during the willow ptarmigan hunting season would be lower in access corridors than at remote sites and that this would result in lower annual survival unless subsequent seasonal compensatory mortality occurred. Consistent with our prediction, annual survival was higher at remote sites (adult males: 0.50, 95% credible interval [CrI] = 0.42–0.57; adult females: 0.36, 95% CrI = 0.26–0.46; juveniles: 0.39, 95% CrI = 0.29–0.50) than at accessible sites (adult males: 0.36, 95% CrI = 0.26–0.46; adult females: 0.23, 95% CrI = 0.12–0.32; juveniles: 0.25, 95% CrI = 0.13–0.37) for all demographic groups. Concentrated harvest occurred in accessible sites during the hunting season (Aug–Mar). During the post‐breeding season (Aug–Nov), when willow ptarmigan were near their breeding sites and the hunting season was open, survival was higher for those from remote sites than for those from accessible sites when accounting for demographic group (adult male, adult female, juvenile). In contrast, during winter (Dec–Mar), when willow ptarmigan had moved away from breeding territories and were no longer segregated into remote and accessible sites, survival estimates did not differ between those from remote breeding territories and those from accessible breeding territories. This pattern of differential survival indicates an association between concentrated hunting at accessible sites and reduced survival, and it suggests an additive component of harvest mortality. In addition, the timing of these survival patterns relative to seasonal movements suggests that early season harvest (prior to seasonal movements away from breeding territories) may have a greater impact on local breeders in accessible areas than later harvest.
Contextual factors related to the execution of knowledge strategies in intellectual disabilities organizations
Authors: Kersten Marion C. O. , Taminiau Elsbeth F. , Weggeman Mathieu C. D. P. , Embregts Petri J. C. M.
Published: January 2022

The sharing and application of knowledge in intellectual disabilities care are vital and challenging. Therefore, organizations providing care and support for people with intellectual disabilities use strategies to stimulate these processes. To optimize these strategies, we investigated the contextual factors that influence their execution. We conducted individual, in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with 11 CEOs of organizations providing care for people with intellectual disabilities in the Netherlands. A thematic data analysis was conducted in which a deductive approach was followed by a bottom‐up clustering. We thus identified factors related to both the internal and the external context. The internal context involves persons within the organization and the organizational structures. The external context involves the organization's socio‐political environment and collaborative partnerships. We concluded that the execution of strategies to improve the sharing and application of knowledge is influenced by contextual factors which appear to be interconnected. These contextual factors point to the key role played by care professionals.
Solamargine inhibits the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma and enhances the anticancer effect of sorafenib by regulating HOTTIP‐TUG1/miR‐4726‐5p/MUC1 pathway
Authors: Tang Qing , Li Xiaojuan , Chen Yun , Long Shunqin , Yu Yaya , Sheng Honghao , Wang Sumei , Han Ling , Wu Wanyin
Published: January 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common primary malignancies. Drug resistance has significantly prevented the clinical application of sorafenib (SF), a first‐line targeted medicine for the treatment of HCC. Solamargine (SM), a natural alkaloid, has shown potential antitumor activity, but studies about antitumor effect of SM are obviously insufficient in HCC. In the present study, we found that SM significantly inhibited the growth of HCC and enhanced the anticancer effect of SF. In brief, SM significantly inhibited the growth of HepG2 and Huh‐7 cells. The combination of SM and SF showed a synergistic antitumor effect. Mechanistically, SM downregulated the expression of long noncoding RNA HOTTIP and TUG1, followed by increasing the expression of miR‐4726‐5p. Moreover, miR‐4726‐5p directly bound to the 3′‐UTR region of MUC1 and decreased the expression of MUC1 protein. Overexpression of MUC1 partially reversed the inhibitory effect of SM on HepG2 and Huh‐7 cells viability, which suggested that MUC1 may be the key target in SM‐induced growth inhibition of HCC. More importantly, the combination of SM and SF synergistically restrained the expression of MUC1 protein. Taken together, our study revealed that SM inhibited the growth of HCC and enhanced the anticancer effect of SF through HOTTIP‐TUG1/miR‐4726‐5p/MUC1 signaling pathway. These findings will provide potential therapeutic targets and strategies for the treatment of HCC.
Classifying Idiopathic Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder, Controls, and Mild Parkinson's Disease Using Gait Parameters
Authors: Cochen De Cock Valérie , Dotov Dobromir , Lacombe Sandy , Picot Marie Christine , Galtier Florence , Driss Valérie , Giovanni Castelnovo , Geny Christian , Abril Beatriz , Damm Loic , Janaqi Stefan
Published: January 2022

Background

Subtle gait changes associated with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) could allow early detection of subjects with future synucleinopathies.

Objective

The aim of this study was to create a multiclass model, using statistical learning from probability distribution of gait parameters, to distinguish between patients with iRBD, healthy control subjects (HCs), and patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Gait parameters were collected in 21 participants with iRBD, 21 with PD, and 21 HCs, matched for age, sex, and education level. Lasso sparse linear regression explored gait features able to classify the three groups.

Results

The final model classified iRBD from HCs and from patients with PD equally well, with 95% accuracy, 100% sensitivity, and 90% specificity.

Conclusions

Gait parameters and a pretrained statistical model can robustly distinguish participants with iRBD from HCs and patients with PD. This could be used to screen subjects with future synucleinopathies in the general population and to identify a conversion threshold to PD. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Higher order robust numerical computation for singularly perturbed problem involving discontinuous convective and source term
Authors: Sahoo Sanjay Ku , Gupta Vikas
Published: January 2022

In this article, we considered a singularly perturbed convection–diffusion equation having discontinuous convective and source terms. Due to these discontinuities, an expected behavior appears in the solution known as the interior layer behavior at the point of discontinuity. Layers are some small narrow regions of the domain where the steep variations in the solution occur as singular perturbation parameter ε approaches zero. Classical central finite difference schemes and finite element methods with piecewise polynomial basis functions on the uniform mesh are known to be inadequate to solve such problems unless an unacceptably large number of mesh points are used when ε is very small. Thus, the problem is solved numerically first by a first‐order accurate, simple upwind scheme on a specially designed piecewise uniform Shishkin mesh. Further, to enhance the order of convergence and to achieve better accuracy, we constructed a Richardson extrapolation scheme (RE scheme) whichis almost second‐order accurate. An extensive analysis has been carried out to establish the almost second‐order ε‐uniform convergence of the proposed RE scheme. Lastly, some numerical examples are considered to verify our theoretical results, and comparisons of numerical results are performed with the numerical results that exist in the literature.
Modified SIQR model for the COVID‐19 outbreak in several countries
Authors: Pinto Carla M. A. , Tenreiro Machado J. A. , Burgos‐Simón Clara
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we propose a modified Susceptible‐Infected‐Quarantine‐Recovered (mSIQR) model, for the COVID‐19 pandemic. We start by proving the well‐posedness of the model and then compute its reproduction number and the corresponding sensitivity indices. We discuss the values of these indices for epidemiological relevant parameters, namely, the contact rate, the proportion of unknown infectious, and the recovering rate. The mSIQR model is simulated, and the outputs are fit to COVID‐19 pandemic data from several countries, including France, US, UK, and Portugal. We discuss the epidemiological relevance of the results and provide insights on future patterns, subjected to health policies.
Weight gain, weight management and medical care for individuals living with overweight and obesity during the COVID‐19 pandemic (EPOCH Study)
Authors: Glazer Stephen A. , Vallis Michael
Published: January 2022

Objective

Medical care and weight related experiences have been challenged by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic for those living with obesity. The magnitude of this impact requires further attention in order to optimize patient care and outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic and lockdown on access to, and experience of, medical care, weight gain and management strategies, as well as predictors of weight gain.

Methods

An online survey (June–October 2020) was conducted with two samples; one representative of Canadians living with overweight and obesity (n = 1089) and a second of individuals recruited through obesity clinical services or patient organizations (n = 980).

Results

Less than half of the total respondents thought that their providers were available for their medical care and most preferred in‐person appointments over telemedicine. Only one quarter were satisfied with their obesity care. Sixty percent of the respondents reported weight gain (on average 5.65 kilograms [kg] gained), with 39.0% gaining more than 5% of their body weight (10.2% gained more than 10%). Over half of the respondents experienced decreased motivation for healthy eating or exercise. One third experienced more frequent and greater food consumption. Although worsening sleep occurred in approximately 20%, there was no significant increase in smoking, alcohol, or cannabis use. Predictors of weight gain were younger patients, higher weight categories, those who struggled with obtaining medical care during the pandemic, as well as those who struggled with eating.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the COVID‐19 pandemic negatively impacted patient care for those living with overweight and obesity and was associated with weight gain and interfered with weight management strategies. Greater attention to personalized weight management and interventions that focus on the predictors of weight gain should be undertaken.
Left heart hypoplasia in the fetus: Echocardiographic predictors of outcome
Authors: Colquitt John L. , Loar Robert W. , Bolin Elijah H. , Ezon David S. , Heinle Jeffrey S. , Morris Shaine A.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Fetal left heart hypoplasia (LHH) with an apex‐forming left ventricle may require neonatal intervention but it is difficult to predict.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of fetuses with LHH defined as normal segmental anatomy, apex‐/near‐apex forming left ventricle, and ≥1 left‐sided z‐score ≤ −2 between 1997 and 2014. Fetuses with mitral or aortic atresia, critical aortic stenosis, extracardiac anomalies, or fetal intervention were excluded. Classification and regression tree analyses (CART) were performed to construct algorithms to predict postnatal circulation: no surgery versus biventricular surgery versus single ventricle (SV) palliation.

Results

Among 138 included fetuses, 52 (37%) underwent neonatal surgery, with 10 (7%) undergoing SV palliation. The strongest single outcome discriminator was exclusively left‐to‐right flow foramen ovale (FO) flow ≥32 weeks gestational age (GA) (seen in 0% with no surgery, 22% with biventricular surgery, 88% with SV palliation). On CART analysis >32 weeks GA, fetuses with right‐to‐left FO flow and aortopulmonary ratio >0.76 had 0% probability of neonatal surgery, while those with left‐to‐right FO flow and mitral valve z‐score < −3.6 had a 70% probability of SV palliation.

Conclusion

SV palliation is an uncommon outcome of fetal LHH. Fetal FO flow and other echocardiographic measures can help determine risk and type of postnatal intervention.
Metallized polyimide films for biomedical applications: X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, surface tension, and blood compatibility studies
Authors: Nica Simona Luminita , Hulubei Camelia , Popovici Dumitru , Dobromir Marius
Published: January 2022

The implications of nitrogen plasma exposure of a semi‐aromatic polyimide (PI) and a fully aromatic one, was studied in regard to gold adhesion for biomedical purposes. The hydrophobicity of the analyzed PI films, estimated by the contact angle method, was influenced by both plasma treatment and gold sputtering. Comparative evaluation of the chemical binding states and surface chemical composition was determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for pristine, plasma treated, and metallized PI films. The appearance of the polar functional groups upon plasma exposure facilitates binding of the gold on the PI surface. Hemocompatibility was theoretically evaluated based on surface tension data. The observed characteristics of the metallized samples could be useful for making components for blood contacting devices, such as blood pressure or blood glucose detection.
Design and Comparative Performance Analysis of High‐Efficiency Lead‐Based and Lead‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Deepthi Jayan K.
Published: January 2022

Herein, the design and an analysis of photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with the Cs containing halide perovskites caesium lead iodide (CsPbI3), caesium tin iodide (CsSnI3) and caesium germanium iodide (CsGeI3) as absorber layers are involved. The device configuration consists of the aforementioned absorber layers with PCBM and Cu2O as the transport materials. The study shows that the device configuration FTO/PCBM/CsSnI3/Cu2O/Au exhibits the best photovoltaic performance with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.13% and a fill factor of 75.91%. The other solar cell device configurations FTO/PCBM/CsPbI3/Cu2O/Au, FTO/PCBM/CsGeI3/Cu2O/Au and FTO/PCBM/MAPbI3/Cu2O/Au exhibit a PCE of 14.66%, 17.26% and 19.46% respectively. In this study, the optical absorption spectrum and other input parameters of CsPbI3, CsSnI3 and CsGeI3 perovskite absorber layers are generated with the help of WIEN2k software using the principles of density functional theory (DFT). Further, an optimization of all the device configurations is done to identify the optimum input parameters of the absorber layers and operating conditions for all the device configurations. The study shows that the device configuration FTO/PCBM/CsSnI3/Cu2O/Au exhibits a good quantum efficiency also in the visible and near IR region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Activation of PGC‐1α via isoliquiritigenin‐induced downregulation of miR‐138‐5p alleviates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Xiaohui , Kong Lina , Li Yingying , Huang Kai , Wu Jingjing , Wang Changyuan , Sun Huijun , Sun Pengyuan , Gu Jiangning , Luo Haifeng , Liu Kexin , Meng Qiang
Published: January 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a metabolic disease, has received wide attention worldwide. However, there is no approved effective drug for NAFLD treatment. In the study, H&E and Oil Red O staining were employed to detect liver histopathological changes and the accumulation of lipid droplets. Quantitative real‐time PCR, Western blot, bioinformatics, luciferase assay, immunofluorescence staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and siRNA were used to further elucidate the mechanism of isoliquiritigenin (ISL) against NAFLD. The results showed that ISL significantly reduced the liver‐to‐body weight ratios and biochemical index. And the staining results showed that ISL remarkedly ameliorated liver histopathological changes of NAFLD. Furthermore, ISL significantly increased the levels of PPARα, CPT1α, and ACADS, which were involved in lipid metabolism, and inhibited the ROS, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 expression by activating PGC‐1α. Bioinformatics and luciferase assay analysis confirmed that miR‐138‐5p might bind to PGC‐1α mRNA in NAFLD. Importantly, the expression of miR‐138‐5p was increased in the NAFLD, which was significantly decreased by ISL. In addition, the miR‐138‐5p inhibitor also promoted lipid metabolism and inhibited inflammatory response in NAFLD via PGC‐1α activation. The above results demonstrate that ISL alleviates NAFLD through modulating miR‐138‐5p/PGC‐1α‐mediated lipid metabolism and inflammatory reaction in vivo and in vitro.
Dietary flavonoid narirutin as a prospective antagonist of oncogenic pri/pre‐microRNAs
Authors: Singh Shilpi , Srivastava Pratik Narain , Meena Abha , Luqman Suaib
Published: January 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in cancer progression via translational degradation in a sequence‐specific manner of the 3′‐untranslated region (3′UTR) of messenger RNA (mRNA). The involvement of miRNA in the biological progression of various cancer types is considered to be a potential target. Primary miRNA (pri‐miRNA) and precursor‐miRNA (pre‐miRNA) synthesize the miRNA by dicer‐catalyzed processes thus targeting pri/pre‐miRNA by phytochemicals is amongst the appropriate approaches for anticancer therapies. Flavonoids category of phytochemicals is well‐known for its chemotherapeutic and chemopreventive potential against multiple cancer types. However, the molecular interactions of flavonoids with miRNAs are not reported so far. Thus, this study aims to identify the promising flavonoids as the antagonist of miRNAs (pre‐miR21, pri‐miR‐208a, pri‐miR‐378a, pri‐miR320b, pri‐miR‐300, pri‐miR‐19b, and pre‐miR‐20b) using molecular docking simulations studies. Among the tested flavonoids, narirutin showed highest binding energy (−11.7 kcal/mol) against pri‐miR19b followed by pri‐miR‐378a (−11.4 kcal/mol) >  pri‐miR320b (−11.2 kcal/mol) =  pri‐miR‐300 (−11.2 kcal/mol) >  pri‐miR‐208a (−9.0 kcal/mol) >  pre‐miR‐20b (− 8.3 kcal/mol). The molecular dynamic simulation experiment confirmed that narirutin destabilizes the tertiary structure of pri‐miRNA in comparison to apo‐RNA. The finding indicates that narirutin binding with pre‐miRNA causes disruption of pri‐RNA structure that creates a loss of DICER‐pre‐miRNA interactions by hindering the pre‐miRNA synthesis, thereby affecting miRNA processing. Further pharmacokinetics and toxicity prediction revealed that it is non‐carcinogenic, non‐mutagenic, and does not inhibit the CYPs activity. Thus, narirutin could be a possible antagonist of oncogenic miRNAs, therefore could be useful for miRNA‐targeted cancer prevention and treatment.
The potential health benefits of aloin from genus Aloe
Authors: Xiao Jianbin , Chen Siyuan , Chen Youqiang , Su Jingqian
Published: January 2022

The Aloe species is known for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. Aloin is an active ingredient found in the leaves of medicinal plants of the genus Aloe. Aloin has attracted considerable interest for its antiinflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities. However, since its clinical application is restricted by its unclear mechanism of action, a deeper understanding of its pharmacological activity is required. This review provides an overview of current pharmacological and toxicological studies published in English from February 2000 to August 2021. Herein, we summarized the sources and potential health benefits of aloin from a clinical application perspective to guide for further studies on the sources of aloin, aimed at efficiently increasing aloin production. Importantly, the function and mechanism of action of aloin remain unclarified. In future research, it is necessary to develop new approaches for studying the pharmacological molecular mechanisms underlying the activity of this compound against various diseases.
Effects of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08®) in a population of males exhibiting inattention and hyperactivity aged 6 to 14 years: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Kean James D. , Downey Luke A. , Sarris Jerome , Kaufman Jordy , Zangara Andrea , Stough Con
Published: January 2022

The current study investigated the efficacy of extract of Bacopa monnieri (BM; CDRI 08®) in reducing levels of inattention and hyperactivity in young children. BM has demonstrated improvements in cognitive outcomes in adults, yet little research is available on its effects in younger populations. A 14‐week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial, with placebo run‐in and run‐out phases, investigated the effects of BM on behavioural, cognitive, mood, and sleep effects in male children aged 6 to 14 years against placebo. One‐hundred and twelve participants were recruited into the trial, with 93 datasets available for analysis. No significant behavioural differences were noted between treatment groups. Cognitive outcomes indicated decreased error‐making in children taking CDRI 08® (p = .04) and increased speed of reaction time in those taking placebo (p = .04) at study end. Improvements in cognitive flexibility (p = .01), executive functioning (p = .04), interpersonal problems (p = .02), and sleep routine (p = .04) were noted in those consuming CDRI 08® over placebo. CDRI 08® did not improve behavioural outcomes, but may have cognitive, mood and sleep benefits in children aged 6 to 14 years. Further study is required to support the findings presented here.
Anthraquinone laxatives use and colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Lombardi Niccolò , Crescioli Giada , Maggini Valentina , Bellezza Raffaele , Landi Iacopo , Bettiol Alessandra , Menniti‐Ippolito Francesca , Ippoliti Ilaria , Mazzanti Gabriela , Vitalone Annabella , Gallo Eugenia , Sivelli Francesco , Sofi Francesco , Gensini Gian Franco , Vannacci Alfredo , Firenzuoli Fabio
Published: January 2022

This systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted to determine the effects of anthraquinone (AQ) laxatives on colorectal cancer (CRC). We searched PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and CENTRAL from inception until March 2021, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. Through the systematic review, we identified 8 observational studies evaluating AQ laxatives use as a risk factor for CRC development, and 5 studies on CRC risk were included in the meta‐analysis using a random‐effects model. Through the meta‐analysis, we found that a history of AQ laxatives use compared with “other” and “no laxatives” use was associated with CRC development (OR: 1.41; 95% CI: 0.94–2.11), although not at a statistically significant level. The possible association persists even after removal of the outlier studies (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 0.97–2.34). Selection of cases and controls was judged at low or unclear risk of bias across almost all studies, and the quality of evidence was from moderate to low. In conclusion, it is not possible to associate the use of AQ laxatives with the development of CRC. However, the trend toward an increased risk of CRC provides a strong indication for investigating this issue by performing further high‐quality studies.
Integrating mixture experiments and six sigma methodology to improve fibre‐reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Larsson Turtola Simon , Rönnbäck Adam , Vanhatalo Erik
Published: January 2022

This article illustrates a Six Sigma project aimed at reducing manufacturing‐induced visual deviations for fibre‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. For a European composites manufacturer, such visual deviations lead to scrapping of cylindrical composite bodies and subsequent environmental impact. The composite bodies are manufactured through vacuum infusion, where a resin mixture impregnates a fibreglass preform and cures, transforming from liquid to solid state. We illustrate the define‐measure‐analyse‐improve‐control (DMAIC) steps of the Six Sigma project. Specific emphasis is placed on the measure and analyse steps featuring a 36‐run computer‐generated mixture experiment with six resin mixture components and six responses. Experimental analysis establishes causal relationships between mixture components and correlated resin characteristics, which can be used to control resin characteristics. Two new resin mixtures were developed and tested in the improve step using the understanding developed in previous steps. Manufacturing‐induced visual deviations were greatly reduced by adjusting the resin mixture to induce a slower curing process. Further refinement of the mixture was made in the control step. A production scrap rate of 5% due to visual deviations was measured during a monitoring period of 5 months after the resin mixture change. The scrap rate was substantially improved compared to the historical level (60%). The successful experimental investigation integrated in this Six Sigma project is expected to generate increased quality, competitiveness, and substantial savings.
Robust backstepping non‐smooth practical tracking for nonlinear systems with mismatched uncertainties
Authors: Yang Wenlong , Shi Zongying , Zhong Yisheng
Published: January 2022

This article investigates the robust finite‐time output tracking control problem for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems subject to mismatched uncertainties and external disturbances. The nonlinear systems with nonstrict‐feedback form are considered, which possess unknown control coefficients and uncertainties bounded by nonnegative convex functions. Based on signal compensation theory and backstepping methodology, a new robust finite‐time controller is proposed, which incorporates a non‐smooth time‐invariant controller to achieve finite‐time convergence property and a robust compensator introduced to restrain the influences of uncertainties. With the help of finite‐time Lyapunov theorem, the robust finite‐time tracking performance of the closed‐loop system is proved. Finally, two simulation examples are given to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
Synthesis, Characterization and Optical Properties of Oxidized Poly Vinyl Alcohol
Authors: Charradi Khaled , Daoudi Mahmoud , Chemek Mourad , Ahmed zakarya , Alzahrani Abdullah Y. A. , Siai Amira , Chtourou Radhouane , Keshk Sherif M. A. S.
Published: January 2022

Poly (viny1 alcohol) (PVA) was partially oxidized by alkaline KMnO4 with an average carbonyl percentage of 65 %. PVA's photo physicochemical properties before and after the oxidation (OPVA) were investigated. The FTIR spectrum of OPVA revealed a new band at 1645 cm−1, corresponding to the carbonyl group and the XRD pattern reflecting an increase in the degree of crystallinity. Unlike pristine PVA, the UV‐vis absorption spectra displayed the most attractive results through OPVA absorption in UV and visible regions. Furthermore, the photoluminescence spectra of PVA membrane exhibited a narrow emission at 338 nm, whereas the OPVA membrane showed blue emission at 415 nm. The proton conductivity increased from 1.5 mScm−1 in PVA to 11.1 mScm−1 in OPVA at 70 °C. Thus, the presence of both hydroxyl and carbonyl groups in OPVA results in the formation of strong hydrogen bonding that facilitate proton transfers along the hydrogen‐bond network.
New Sulfur‐Containing Ferrocenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridines: Multiresponsive Hg2+ Ion Sensing and Structure‐Sensing Correlation
Authors: Zhang Baoyuan , Suo Quanling , Li Qiannan , Zhu Yanqi , Gao Xuechuan , Lv Li , Gao Yuanyuan , Jia Huijie , Wang Yaqi
Published: January 2022

Two new sulfur‐containing ferrocenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridines, 2‐ferrocenyl‐5‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (L1) and 2‐ferrocenyl‐5‐(thiophen‐3‐yl)‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (L2), were synthesized and characterized. L1 and L2 behaved as highly selective fluorescent “turn‐off”, redox (ΔE1/2=0.25 V for L1 and ΔE1/2=0.22 V for L2) and UV active receptors for Hg2+ ions through the formation of the corresponding 2 : 1 and 1 : 1 (receptor:metal ion) complexes, with detection limits 4.47×10−8 M and 2.21×10−7 M, respectively. Furthermore, the quenched fluorescence of L1 was recovered on iodide ion addition. The sensing mechanism study suggested that although the imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine is the main coordination unit providing N, N binding sites, the added thienyls have improved the fluorescence emission and Hg2+ sensing selectivity of L1 and L2, and obviously influenced the coordination mode. Finally, living cell imaging and test strip experiments demonstrated the potential application of L1 in fluorescent visualization of Hg2+ ions in biological and environmental systems.