bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRISPR-Cas13a-powered electrochemical biosensor for the detection of the L452R mutation in clinical samples of SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Chen Zhi , Wu Chenshuo , Yuan Yuxuan , Xie Zhongjian , Li Tianzhong , Huang Hao , Li Shuang , Deng Jiefeng , Lin Huiling , Shi Zhe , Li Chaozhou , Hao Yabin , Tang Yuxuan , You Yuehua , Al-Hartomy Omar A. , Wageh Swelm , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Lu Ruitao , Zhang Ling , Lin Xuechun , He Yaqing , Zhao Guojun , Li Defa , Zhang Han
Published: April 2023

Since the end of 2019, a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has deprived numerous lives worldwide, called COVID-19. Up to date, omicron is the latest variant of concern, and BA.5 is replacing the BA.2 variant to become the main subtype rampaging worldwide. These subtypes harbor an L452R mutation, which increases their transmissibility among vaccinated people. Current methods for identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants are mainly based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by gene sequencing, making time-consuming processes and expensive instrumentation indispensable. In this study, we developed a rapid and ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor to achieve the goals of high sensitivity, the ability of distinguishing the variants, and the direct detection of RNAs from viruses simultaneously. We used electrodes made of MXene-AuNP (gold nanoparticle) composites for improved sensitivity and the CRISPR/Cas13a system for high specificity in detecting the single-base L452R mutation in RNAs and clinical samples. Our biosensor will be an excellent supplement to the RT-qPCR method enabling the early diagnosis and quick distinguishment of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.5 and BA.2 variants and more potential variants that might arise in the future.
Prognostic analysis of 2–5 cm diameter gastric stromal tumors with exogenous or endogenous growth
Authors: Lin Chen , Sui Chao , Tao Tingting , Guan Wenxian , Zhang Haoran , Tao Liang , Wang Meng , Wang Feng
Published: April 2023

Background

There has been limited research on the prognosis differences in patients with gastric stromal tumor invasion of the plasma membrane surface. This study intended to investigate whether there is a difference in prognosis in patients with endogenous or exogenous 2–5 cm diameter GISTs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological and follow-up data of gastric stromal tumor patients, all of whom underwent surgical resection for primary GIST at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from December 2010 to February 2022. We classified patients based on tumor growth patterns and then investigated the association between tumor growth patterns and clinical outcomes. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated by the Kaplan‒Meier method.

Results

A total of 496 gastric stromal tumor patients were enrolled in this study, among which 276 patients had tumors of 2–5 cm in diameter. Of these 276 patients, 193 had exogenous tumors, and 83 had endogenous tumors. Tumor growth patterns were significantly related to age, rupture status, resection style, tumor site, tumor size, and intraoperative bleeding. According to Kaplan‒Meier curve analysis, the tumor growth pattern among patients with 2–5 cm diameter tumors was significantly correlated with worse progression-free survival (PFS). Ultimately, multivariate analyses identified the Ki-67 index (P = 0.008), surgical history (P = 0.031), and resection style (P = 0.045) as independent prognostic markers for PFS.

Conclusions

Although gastric stromal tumors with a diameter of 2–5 cm are classified as low risk, the prognosis is lower for exogenous tumors than for endogenous tumors, and exogenous gastric stromal tumors have a risk of recurrence. Consequently, clinicians should be vigilant regarding the prognosis of patients with this type of tumor.
Data-driven characterization of walking after a spinal cord injury using inertial sensors
Authors: Werner Charlotte , Gönel Meltem , Lerch Irina , Curt Armin , Demkó László
Published: April 2023

Background

An incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) refers to remaining sensorimotor function below the injury with the possibility for the patient to regain walking abilities. However, these patients often suffer from diverse gait deficits, which are not objectively assessed in the current clinical routine. Wearable inertial sensors are a promising tool to capture gait patterns objectively and started to gain ground for other neurological disorders such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. In this work, we present a data-driven approach to assess walking for SCI patients based on sensor-derived outcome measures. We aimed to (i) characterize their walking pattern in more depth by identifying groups with similar walking characteristics and (ii) use sensor-derived gait parameters as predictors for future walking capacity.

Methods

The dataset analyzed consisted of 66 SCI patients and 20 healthy controls performing a standardized gait test, namely the 6-min walking test (6MWT), while wearing a sparse sensor setup of one sensor attached to each ankle. A data-driven approach has been followed using statistical methods and machine learning models to identify relevant and non-redundant gait parameters.

Results

Clustering resulted in 4 groups of patients that were compared to each other and to the healthy controls. The clusters did differ in terms of their average walking speed but also in terms of more qualitative gait parameters such as variability or parameters indicating compensatory movements. Further, using longitudinal data from a subset of patients that performed the 6MWT several times during their rehabilitation, a prediction model has been trained to estimate whether the patient’s walking speed will improve significantly in the future. Including sensor-derived gait parameters as inputs for the prediction model resulted in an accuracy of 80%, which is a considerable improvement of 10% compared to using only the days since injury, the present 6MWT distance, and the days until the next 6MWT as predictors.

Conclusions

In summary, the work presented proves that sensor-derived gait parameters provide additional information on walking characteristics and thus are beneficial to complement clinical walking assessments of SCI patients. This work is a step towards a more deficit-oriented therapy and paves the way for better rehabilitation outcome predictions.
Identification of key ferroptosis-related biomarkers in steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head based on machine learning
Authors: Liu Jian , Han Xueliang , Qu Lianjun , Du Bencai
Published: April 2023

Background

This study was aimed to identify key ferroptosis-related biomarkers in steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH) based on machine learning algorithm.

Methods

The SONFH dataset GSE123568 (including 30 SONFH patients and 10 controls) was used in this study. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected between SONFH and control groups, which were subjected to WGCNA. Ferroptosis-related genes were downloaded from FerrDb V2, which were then compared with DEGs and module genes. Two machine learning algorithms were utilized to identify key ferroptosis-related genes, and the underlying mechanisms were analyzed by GSEA. Correlation analysis between key ferroptosis-related genes and immune cells was analyzed by Spearman method. The drug–gene relationships were predicted in CTD.

Results

Total 2030 DEGs were obtained. WGCNA identified two key modules and obtained 1561 module genes. Finally, 43 intersection genes were identified as disease-related ferroptosis-related genes. After LASSO regression and RFE-SVM algorithms, 4 intersection genes (AKT1S1, BACH1, MGST1 and SETD1B) were considered as key ferroptosis-related gene. The 4 genes were correlated with osteoclast differentiation pathway. Twenty immune cells with significant differences were obtained between the groups, and the 4 key ferroptosis-related genes were correlated with most immune cells. In CTD, 41 drug–gene relationship pairs were finally obtained.

Conclusions

The 4 key ferroptosis-related genes, AKT1S1, BACH1, MGST1 and SETD1B, were identified to play a critical role in SONFH progression through osteoclast differentiation and immunologic mechanisms. Additionally, all the 4 genes had good disease prediction effect and could act as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of SONFH.
Elevated plasma levels of IL-6 and MCP-1 selectively identify CML patients who better sustain molecular remission after TKI withdrawal
Authors: Pavlovsky Carolina , Vasconcelos Cordoba Bianca , Sanchez María Belén , Moiraghi Beatriz , Varela Ana , Custidiano Rosario , Fernandez Isolda , Freitas Maria Josefina , Ventriglia Maria Verónica , Bendek Georgina , Mariano Romina , Mela Osorio María José , Pavlovsky Miguel Angel , de Labanca Ana García , Foncuberta Cecilia , Giere Isabel , Vera Masiel , Juni Mariana , Mordoh Jose , Sanchez Avalos Julio Cesar , Cueto Gerardo , Miranda Silvia , Levy Estrella Mariel , Bianchini Michele
Published: April 2023

Treatment-free remission (TFR) in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is safe under adequate molecular monitoring, but questions remain regarding which factors may be considered predictive for TFR. Argentina Stop Trial (AST) is a multicenter TFR trial showing that 65% of patients sustain molecular remission, and the prior time in deep molecular response (DMR) was associated with successful TFR. Luminex technology was used to characterize cytokines in plasma samples. Using machine learning algorithms, MCP-1 and IL-6 were identified as novel biomarkers and MCP-1low/IL-6low patients showed eightfold higher risk of relapse. These findings support the feasibility of TFR for patients in DMR and MCP-1/IL-6 plasma levels are strong predictive biomarkers.
Australian secondary school principals', parents', and students' attitudes to prescribed school footwear guidelines
Authors: Mazzella Natalie , Fox Aaron , Saunders Natalie , Trowell Danielle , Vicenzino Bill , Bonacci Jason
Published: April 2023

Background

Adolescents are often required to wear footwear that adheres to uniform guidelines at secondary school. There is a paucity of literature on factors influencing school footwear choice and what drives the development of school footwear guidelines. The aims of this study were to describe (i) current school footwear guidelines in secondary schools across Australia, (ii) factors that influence footwear choice in secondary school students and their parents, and (iii) principals, parents, and students' beliefs on factors which contribute to school footwear guidelines.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to principals, secondary school students (aged 14–19 years) and their parents across Australia. The survey included questions on current school footwear guidelines, factors influencing footwear choice (for students and parents), participants beliefs on the effect footwear has on musculoskeletal health, current and previous lower limb pain, and beliefs on factors that contribute to school footwear guidelines. Parent and student responses to factors that influence their footwear choice were compared using proportional odds logistic regression. Students and parents' responses to factors influencing footwear guidelines were compared to principal responses using proportional odds logistic regression. Significance was set at an alpha of < 0.05.

Results

Eighty principals, 153 parents and 120 secondary school students responded to the survey. 96% (77/80) of principals reported that their schools have set guidelines for school footwear. 88% of principals considered comfort to be important when developing school footwear guidelines. Proportional odds logistics regression showed that parents and students were 3.4 and 4.9 times more likely, respectively, than principals to rate comfort as being important when schools develop footwear guidelines. More than 40% of students reported experiencing musculoskeletal pain, and 70% of these students reported the pain to be exacerbated when in their school shoes. Less than a third of participants considered healthcare recommendations important to the development of footwear guidelines.

Conclusions

Nearly all principals that participated in this survey had set guidelines for school footwear. There is a discord between parents, students, and principals on the importance that factors such as comfort, play in the development of school footwear guidelines.
Using re-randomisation designs to increase the efficiency and applicability of retention studies within trials: a case study
Authors: Goulao Beatriz , Duncan Anne , Innes Karen , Ramsay Craig R. , Kahan Brennan C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Poor retention in randomised trials can lead to serious consequences to their validity. Studies within trials (SWATs) are used to identify the most effective interventions to increase retention. Many interventions could be applied at any follow-up time point, but SWATs commonly assess interventions at a single time point, which can reduce efficiency.

Methods

The re-randomisation design allows participants to be re-enrolled and re-randomised whenever a new retention opportunity occurs (i.e. a new follow-up time point where the intervention could be applied). The main advantages are as follows: (a) it allows the estimation of an average effect across time points, thus increasing generalisability; (b) it can be more efficient than a parallel arm trial due to increased sample size; and (c) it allows subgroup analyses to estimate effectiveness at different time points. We present a case study where the re-randomisation design is used in a SWAT.

Results

In our case study, the host trial is a dental trial with two available follow-up points. The Sticker SWAT tests whether adding the trial logo’s sticker to the questionnaire’s envelope will result in a higher response rate compared with not adding the sticker. The primary outcome is the response rate to postal questionnaires. The re-randomisation design could double the available sample size compared to a parallel arm trial, resulting in the ability to detect an effect size around 28% smaller.

Conclusion

The re-randomisation design can increase the efficiency and generalisability of SWATs for trials with multiple follow-up time points.
A practical guide for the diagnosis of abdominal angiostrongyliasis caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis
Authors: Rodriguez Rubens , Mora Javier , Solano-Barquero Alberto , Graeff-Teixeira Carlos , Rojas Alicia
Published: April 2023

Abdominal angiostrongyliasis (AA) is a severe parasitic infection caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus costaricensis. This disease is characterized by abdominal pain, a strong inflammatory eosinophilic response in the blood and tissues, and eventually intestinal perforation. Diagnosis of AA is challenging since there are no commercially available serological kits for A. costaricensis, and thus, histopathological analysis remains the gold standard. Herein we provide a decision flowchart for clinicians to improve the diagnosis of AA based on a patient’s clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, macroscopic observations of the gut lesions, as well as characteristic microscopic alterations in biopsies. A brief discussion of the available polymerase chain reaction and in-house serological methods is also presented. The aim of this mini-review is to improve the diagnosis of AA, which should lead to prompt detection of cases and better estimates of the epidemiology and geographical distribution of A. costaricensis.

Graphical Abstract
Stiffness and axial pain are associated with the progression of calcification in a mouse model of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis
Authors: Fournier Dale E. , Veras Matthew A. , Brooks Courtney R. , Quinonez Diana , Millecamps Magali , Stone Laura S. , Séguin Cheryle A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is characterized by progressive calcification of spinal tissues; however, the impact of calcification on pain and function is poorly understood. This study examined the association between progressive ectopic spine calcification in mice lacking equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (ENT1−/−), a preclinical model of DISH, and behavioral indicators of pain.

Methods

A longitudinal study design was used to assess radiating pain, axial discomfort, and physical function in wild-type and ENT1−/− mice at 2, 4, and 6 months. At endpoint, spinal cords were isolated for immunohistochemical analysis of astrocytes (GFAP), microglia (IBA1), and nociceptive innervation (CGRP).

Results

Increased spine calcification in ENT1−/− mice was associated with reductions in flexmaze exploration, vertical activity in an open field, and self-supporting behavior in tail suspension, suggesting flexion-induced discomfort or stiffness. Grip force during the axial stretch was also reduced in ENT1−/− mice at 6 months of age. Increased CGRP immunoreactivity was detected in the spinal cords of female and male ENT1−/− mice compared to wild-type. GFAP- and IBA1-immunoreactivity were increased in female ENT1−/− mice compared to wild-type, suggesting an increase in nociceptive innervation.

Conclusion

These data suggest that ENT1−/− mice experience axial discomfort and/or stiffness and importantly that these features are detected during the early stages of spine calcification.
Extensive intratumor regional epigenetic heterogeneity in clear cell renal cell carcinoma targets kidney enhancers and is associated with poor outcome
Authors: El Khoury Louis Y. , Pan Xiaoyu , Hlady Ryan A. , Wagner Ryan T. , Shaikh Shafiq , Wang Liguo , Humphreys Mitchell R. , Castle Erik P. , Stanton Melissa L. , Ho Thai H. , Robertson Keith D.
Published: April 2023

Background

Clear cell renal cell cancer (ccRCC), the 8th leading cause of cancer-related death in the US, is challenging to treat due to high level intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) and the paucity of druggable driver mutations. CcRCC is unusual for its high frequency of epigenetic regulator mutations, such as the SETD2 histone H3 lysine 36 trimethylase (H3K36me3), and low frequency of traditional cancer driver mutations. In this work, we examined epigenetic level ITH and defined its relationships with pathologic features, aspects of tumor biology, and SETD2 mutations.

Results

A multi-region sampling approach coupled with EPIC DNA methylation arrays was conducted on a cohort of normal kidney and ccRCC. ITH was assessed using DNA methylation (5mC) and CNV-based entropy and Euclidian distances. We found elevated 5mC heterogeneity and entropy in ccRCC relative to normal kidney. Variable CpGs are highly enriched in enhancer regions. Using intra-class correlation coefficient analysis, we identified CpGs that segregate tumor regions according to clinical phenotypes related to tumor aggressiveness. SETD2 wild-type tumors overall possess greater 5mC and copy number ITH than SETD2 mutant tumor regions, suggesting SETD2 loss contributes to a distinct epigenome. Finally, coupling our regional data with TCGA, we identified a 5mC signature that links regions within a primary tumor with metastatic potential.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results reveal marked levels of epigenetic ITH in ccRCC that are linked to clinically relevant tumor phenotypes and could translate into novel epigenetic biomarkers.
Epigenetic reactivation of tumor suppressor genes with CRISPRa technologies as precision therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sgro Agustin , Cursons Joseph , Waryah Charlene , Woodward Eleanor A. , Foroutan Momeneh , Lyu Ruqian , Yeoh George C. T. , Leedman Peter J. , Blancafort Pilar
Published: April 2023

Background

Epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) is a key feature of oncogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver-targeted delivery of CRISPR-activation (CRISPRa) systems makes it possible to exploit chromatin plasticity, by reprogramming transcriptional dysregulation.

Results

Using The Cancer Genome Atlas HCC data, we identify 12 putative TSGs with negative associations between promoter DNA methylation and transcript abundance, with limited genetic alterations. All HCC samples harbor at least one silenced TSG, suggesting that combining a specific panel of genomic targets could maximize efficacy, and potentially improve outcomes as a personalized treatment strategy for HCC patients. Unlike epigenetic modifying drugs lacking locus selectivity, CRISPRa systems enable potent and precise reactivation of at least 4 TSGs tailored to representative HCC lines. Concerted reactivation of HHIP, MT1M, PZP, and TTC36 in Hep3B cells inhibits multiple facets of HCC pathogenesis, such as cell viability, proliferation, and migration.

Conclusions

By combining multiple effector domains, we demonstrate the utility of a CRISPRa toolbox of epigenetic effectors and gRNAs for patient-specific treatment of aggressive HCC.
A molecular study on recombinant pullulanase type I from Metabacillus indicus
Authors: Al-Mamoori Zahraa Z. , Embaby Amira M. , Hussein Ahmed , Mahmoud Hoda E.
Published: April 2023

Despite the great potential of cold-adapted pullulanase type I in tremendous industrial applications, the majority of commercialized pullulnases type I are of mesophilic and thermophilic origin so far. Hence, the present study underlines cloning, heterologous expression in Escherichia coli, characterization, and in silico structural modeling of Metabacillus indicus open reading frame of cold-adapted pullulanase type I (Pull_Met: 2133 bp & 710 a.a) for the first time ever. The predicted Pull_Met tertiary structure by I-TASSER, was structurally similar to PDB 2E9B pullulanase of Bacillus subtilis. Purified to homogeneity Pull_Met showed specific activity (667.6 U/mg), fold purification (31.7), molecular mass (79.1 kDa), monomeric subunit and Km (2.63 mg/mL) on pullulan. Pull_Met had optimal pH (6.0) and temperature (40 oC). After 10 h pre-incubation at pH 2.6-6.0, Pull_Met maintained 47.12 ± 0.0–35.28 ± 1.64% of its activity. After 120 min pre-incubation at 30 oC, the retained activity was 51.11 ± 0.29%. At 10 mM Mn2+, Na2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Cu2+ after 30 min preincubation, retained activity was 155.89 ± 8.97, 134.71 ± 1.82, 97.64 ± 7.06, 92.25 ± 4.18, and 71.28 ± 1.10%, respectively. After 30 min pre-incubation with Tween-80, Tween-20, Triton X-100, and commercially laundry detergents at 0.1% (v/v), the retained activity was 141.15 ± 3.50, 145.45 ± 0.20, 118.12 ± 11.00, and 90%, respectively. Maltotriose was the only end product of pullulan hydrolysis. Synergistic action of CA-AM21 (α-amylase) and Pull_Met on starch liberated 16.51 g reducing sugars /g starch after 1 h at 40 oC. Present data (cold-adeptness, detergent stability, and ability to exhibit starch saccharification of Pull_Met) underpins it as a promising pullulanase type I for industrial exploitation.
Bifunctional role of some biogenic nanoparticles in controlling wilt disease and promoting growth of common bean
Authors: El-Sayed El-Sayed R. , Mohamed Samar S. , Mousa Shaimaa A. , El-Seoud Mohamed A. Abo , Elmehlawy Adel A. , Abdou Dalia A.M.
Published: April 2023

In the present era, nanomaterials are emerging as a powerful tool for management of plant disease and improving crop production to meet the growing global need for food. Thus, this paper was conducted to explore the effectiveness of five different types of nanoparticles (NPs) viz., Co3O4NPs, CuONPs, Fe3O4NPs, NiONPs, and ZnONPs as treatments for Fusarium wilt as well as their role in promoting growth of the common bean plant. The five types of NPs were applied as a treatment for wilt in two ways, therapeutic and protective plans under greenhouse conditions. In vivo experiments showed that all types of NPs significantly increased disease control and diminished the symptoms of Fusarium wilt for both incidence and severity. The recorded values for disease control using the respective NPs during the protective plan were 82.77, 60.17, 49.67, 38.23, and 70.59%. Meanwhile these values were 92.84, 64.67, 51.33, 45.61, 73.84% during the therapeutic plan. Moreover, CuONPs during the protective plan were the best among the five types of NPs employed in terms of wilt disease management. Regarding the use of these NPs as growth promoters, the obtained results confirmed the effectiveness of the five types of NPs in enhancing vegetative growth of the plant under greenhouse conditions, in comparison with control. Among the five NPs, CuONPs improved the plant vegetative growth and particularly increased the content of the photosynthetic pigments; chlorophyll-a (2.96 mg/g), -b (1.93 mg/g), and total carotenoids (1.16 mg/g). These findings suggest the successful and potential exploitation of nanomaterials in agriculture deployed as nano-based products including nano-fungicides and nano-fertilizers. In terms of sustainability, this promising and exceptional multifunctional role of these nanomaterials will surely exert positive impacts on both the environment and sustainable agriculture.
Improving biomass and carbohydrate production of microalgae in the rotating cultivation system on natural carriers
Authors: Mousavian Zahra , Safavi Maliheh , Salehirad Alireza , Azizmohseni Farzaneh , Hadizadeh Mahnaz , Mirdamadi Saeed
Published: April 2023

Biofilm-based algal technologies have gained popularity due to higher biomass productivity, efficient harvesting, and water-saving over suspended growth systems. A rotating attached system was designed to assess the biofilm-forming capacity of different isolated microalgal strains from the Persian Gulf. Four microalgal strains, including two Chlorella sp., one Picochlorum sp. and one filamentous cyanobacterium Desmonostoc sp. were cultivated on four carriers: jute, cotton, yarn and nylon. The carriers’ physicochemical surface characteristics and attachment effects, like contact angle, were investigated. The incorporated biomass and exopolysaccharides (EPS) content in the suspended and biofilm system was calculated and compared. The results showed that the cyanobacterium strain had the biofilm formation capability on both jute and cotton in the attached cultivation system. Under the same culture conditions, the biomass productivity on jute and cotton carriers was significantly higher (4.76 and 3.61 g m− 2 respectively) than the growth in aqueous suspension (1.19 g m− 2 d− 1). The greatest incorporated exopolysaccharides amount was observed on jute (43.62 ± 4.47%) and the lowest amount was obtained from the growth on positive charge yarn (18.62 ± 1.88%). This study showed that in comparison with planktonic growth, the colonization of cyanobacterial cells and subsequent production of extracellular matrix and biofilm formation can lead to increased biomass production.
Are ChatGPT and large language models “the answer” to bringing us closer to systematic review automation?
Authors: Qureshi Riaz , Shaughnessy Daniel , Gill Kayden A. R. , Robinson Karen A. , Li Tianjing , Agai Eitan
Published: April 2023

In this commentary, we discuss ChatGPT and our perspectives on its utility to systematic reviews (SRs) through the appropriateness and applicability of its responses to SR related prompts. The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted technologies leave many wondering about the current capabilities, limitations, and opportunities for integration AI into scientific endeavors. Large language models (LLM)—such as ChatGPT, designed by OpenAI—have recently gained widespread attention with their ability to respond to various prompts in a natural-sounding way. Systematic reviews (SRs) utilize secondary data and often require many months and substantial financial resources to complete, making them attractive grounds for developing AI-assistive technologies. On February 6, 2023, PICO Portal developers hosted a webinar to explore ChatGPT’s responses to tasks related to SR methodology. Our experience from exploring the responses of ChatGPT suggest that while ChatGPT and LLMs show some promise for aiding in SR-related tasks, the technology is in its infancy and needs much development for such applications. Furthermore, we advise that great caution should be taken by non-content experts in using these tools due to much of the output appearing, at a high level, to be valid, while much is erroneous and in need of active vetting.
Perioperative glycemic management in adults presenting for elective cardiac and non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Sreedharan Roshni , Khanna Sandeep , Shaw Andrew
Published: April 2023

Perioperative dysglycemia is associated with adverse outcomes in both cardiac and non-cardiac surgical patients. Hyperglycemia in the perioperative period is associated with an increased risk of postoperative infections, length of stay, and mortality. Hypoglycemia can induce neuronal damage, leading to significant cognitive deficits, as well as death. This review endeavors to summarize existing literature on perioperative dysglycemia and provides updates on pharmacotherapy and management of perioperative hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia in surgical patients.
Loneliness and trust issues reshape mental stress of expatriates during early COVID-19: a structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Billah Md Arif , Akhtar Sharmin , Khan Md. Nuruzzaman
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To explore relationship among perceived stress regarding loneliness, interpersonal trust and institutional trust of expatriates during the early COVID-19 period (from 30th March to 30th May 2020).

Methods

Data from  21,439 expatriates were extracted from COVIDiSTRESS global survey. The outcome variable was perceived stress. The explanatory variables were age, perceived loneliness, trust (interpersonal and institutional). Pairwise correlation, and structural equation modelling were used to determine relationship among outcome and explanatory variables.

Results

The majority of the expatriates were female (73.85%), married (60.20%), had college degree (47.76%), and employed (48.72%). Over 63% of the total expatriates reported that the COVID-19 pandemic changed their lives. The average age of the respondents was 40.4 years (± 13.7), and the average score of perceived stress, loneliness, interpersonal and institutional trust were 25.5, 7.4, 14.2 and 40.4, respectively. We found a moderate correlation of perceived stress with age, perceived loneliness, interpersonal trust and institutional trust (p < 0.001). They were also found moderately related to each other. Structural equation modelling evaluated that a lack of trust can cause loneliness among expatriates, which later lead to perceived stress. Interpersonal trust was more likely to be associated with stress than institutional trust, whereas perceived loneliness mediated between both trusts and perceived stress.

Conclusion

Perceived stress can be reduced through trusting others and alleviating the loneliness. Making strong linkage among migrants as well as between migrants and local community is important to ensure proper mental wellbeing of expatriates.
The influence of weight on psychosocial well-being in diabetes
Authors: Telaak Sydney H. , Costabile Kristi A. , Persky Susan
Published: April 2023

Background

Individuals with diabetes experience a wide variety of psychosocial responses to their illness due, in part, to the nature of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Variation in patient weight may play a central role in these differences, yet its influence on psychosocial variation is largely unknown. The current study investigates the relationship between patients’ perceived weight status and aspects of psychosocial well-being among individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Individuals who were diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were assessed via an online survey from the Diabetes, Identity, Attributions, and Health Study. Participants were categorized into a lower v. higher weight status group based on their self-reported perceived weight. Analyses of covariance were conducted to assess differences in measures of disease onset blame, diabetes stigma, and identity concerns among diabetes type and perceived weight status. Covariates included in our models were gender, age, education, and time since diagnosis. Bonferroni correction was used for post-hoc tests to assess any significant interactions found in our models.

Results

Findings indicated that weight moderates multiple psychosocial outcomes pertinent to illness experience. Those with T2D and lower weight blamed themselves less for their disease onset, while those with higher weight felt blamed more for their disease onset by others, regardless of diabetes type. Individuals with T1D and higher weight were more frequently and more concerned about being mistaken for having the other disease type (i.e., T2D) compared to those with lower weight.

Conclusions

Weight is a key influence on the psychosocial outcomes for people with diabetes, but it operates differently in type 1 versus type 2 diabetes. By further examining the unique interaction between disease type and weight status we may be able to improve psychological well-being among affected individuals of all sizes.
Transfer learning approach based on satellite image time series for the crop classification problem
Authors: Antonijević Ognjen , Jelić Slobodan , Bajat Branislav , Kilibarda Milan
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a transfer learning approach to the crop classification problem based on time series of images from the Sentinel-2 dataset labeled for two regions: Brittany (France) and Vojvodina (Serbia). During preprocessing, cloudy images are removed from the input data, the time series are interpolated over the time dimension, and additional remote sensing indices are calculated. We chose TransformerEncoder as the base model for knowledge transfer from source to target domain with French and Serbian data, respectively. Even more, the accuracy of the base model with the preprocessing step is improved by 2% when trained and evaluated on the French dataset. The transfer learning approach with fine-tuning of the pre-trained weights on the French dataset outperformed all other methods in terms of overall accuracy 0.94 and mean class recall 0.907 on the Serbian dataset. Our partially fine-tuned model improved recall of crop types that were poorly classified by the base model. In the case of sugar beet, class recall is improved by 85.71%.
Outcomes of a food voucher program and factors associated with the recovery rate of children with moderate acute malnutrition in Far North Cameroon
Authors: Teta Ismael , Foudjo Brice Ulrich Saha , Nielsen Jennifer N. , Oben Julius , Nguefack-Tsague Georges , Ntentie Françoise Raissa , Cakir Volkan , Klemm Rolf , Kang Yunhee
Published: April 2023

Background

Research on moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) is limited, despite its high prevalence. This study examined outcomes of bi-weekly locally available foods provided via a food voucher program (FVP) on nutritional recovery [mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) ≥ 125 mm] from MAM (defined as MUAC between 115 and 124 mm) and identified the factors associated with recovery rate in Kaélé health district, Far North Region of Cameroon.

Methods

This was a prospective study with 474 MAM children aged 6–59 months. Food voucher distribution and MUAC screening were conducted at 6 bi-weekly visits or until the child was recovered. Time to recovery was evaluated with multivariate Cox proportional regression hazard models with associations quantified using adjusted hazard ratio (aHR). The trend for MUAC, including its determinants, was examined with multivariate linear mixed effect models.

Results

The recovery rate was 78.3% by 6 weeks after the first food basket; 3.4% remained MAM, and 5.9% were transferred for treatment for severe acute malnutrition (SAM defined as MUAC < 115 mm). Boys were 34% more likely to recover from MAM than girls [aHR = 1.34, 95%CI (1.09, 1.67)]. Children aged 24–53 months were 30% more likely to recover than those aged 6–11 months [aHR = 1.30, 95%CI (0.99, 1.70)]. A one unit increase in weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) was associated with 1.89-fold greater likelihood of recovery [aHR = 1.89, 95%CI (1.66, 2.14)]. Male children had on average 1.82 mm greater increase in MUAC than female children (p < 0.001). One unit increase in WHZ was associated with 3.42 mm increase in MUAC (p = 0.025). Children aged 12–23 and 24–53 months had 1.03 mm and 2.44 mm, respectively, greater increase in MUAC over the program than children aged 6–11 months (all p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The recovery rate of MAM children treated with the FVP met the Sphere standards for targeted supplementary feeding programs (> 75%). Child’s WHZ, gender and age were significant factors associated with MUAC increase and recovery from MAM in the FVP. These findings indicate the FVP approach shows promise as an effective alternative treatment for MAM with consideration of associated factors and merits further evaluation.
Anatomical and histological study on the tongue of two different species Ptychadena mascareniensis and Hemidactylus turcicus from the Egyptian environment
Authors: Abdel Moghith Zainab SH. , Salama Maiada M. , Hassan Basma N. , Abdelkader Ebrahim Y. , El-Habit Ola H.
Published: April 2023

Background

The tongue plays definite and important role in simplifying food intake and also, exhibits significant morphological distinctions to acclimatize the environment. This study aimed to investigate the variations in gross and microscopic anatomy of the tongue in two tetrapod classes Ptychadena mascareniensis from class: Amphibia and Hemidactylus turcicus from class: Reptilia to correlate the structure and functions of the tongue in relations to the habitat and feeding mechanisms.

Results

All the modifications perceived in the tongues of the premeditated animals explained the relationship between adaptation of each animal to its feeding habit and habitat. Amphibians which live in and nearby freshwater showed no keratinization in their lingual epithelium. However, reptiles, which live in terrestrial habitats, have shown keratinization and ideal forms of lingual papillae which considered the most remarkable feature of the histological structures of the reptilian tongues and reflect their adaptations to the dry habitat in which they live.

Conclusion

There were some variations reported in histological structure, gross anatomy and ultrastructure morphology of the tongue from the two tetrapod classes, the Amphibia (Ptychadena mascareniensis) and Reptilia (Hemidactylus turcicus). The present study is the first one in Egypt that deals with the tongue structures and functions in one of the amphibians Ptychadena mascareniensis. Concerning the lizard Hemidactylus turcicus.
Effect of HCV treatment with DAAs on serum intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) as a marker of intestinal permeability in HCV/HIV co-infected patients
Authors: Abdelhaleem Hanan , Khairy Marwa , Abdo Mahmoud , Cordie Ahmed , Elsharkawy Marwa , Alem Shereen Abdel , Elsharkawy Aisha , Al sehemy Lamiaa , Esmat Gamal
Published: April 2023

Background

HCV and HIV co-infected patients develop cirrhosis more rapidly than HCV mono-infection. Intestinal injury and microbial translocation are postulated mechanisms for the rapid progression of cirrhosis.

Aim

Study the effect of HCV treatment with DAAs on serum intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) as a marker of intestinal injury in HCV/HIV co-infected patients and its relation to hepatic fibrosis. Comparing the level of I-FABP in HCV mono-infection and HCV/HIV co-infection was a secondary aim.

Methods

I-FABP levels were measured in 50 non-cirrhotic HCV/HIV co-infected patients pre- and post-HCV treatment (SVR 12) (25 patients were HIV treatment naive, and 25 patients were on HAART) and in 25 chronic HCV patients as a control group. Hepatic fibrosis was assessed by FIB4 score, APRI score, and transient elastography.

Results

HCV/HIV co-infected patients had significantly higher levels of I-FABP compared to the HCV-mono-infected patients (P = 0.001). After HCV treatment in HCV/HIV co-infected patients, I-FABP level was significantly elevated (P < 0.001) and was positively correlated with baseline FIB4 values and serum ALT levels (r = 0.283, P-value = 0.047) and (r = 0.340, P-value = 0.016), respectively.

Conclusion

HCV/HIV co-infection is associated with significantly higher intestinal injury and subsequent hepatic fibrosis than HCV mono-infection. HIV infection is associated with intestinal epithelial injury and microbial translocation and may play a role in the persistence of systemic inflammation after HCV eradication.
The effect of investment in the brand value chain on profitability and market value of the firm: lesson of success taken from Amazon
Authors: Elsayed Raghda Abdellatif Abdelkhalik
Published: April 2023

This study aims to contribute to the existing business strategy literature by exploring how brand-building activities contribute to the firm's value by analyzing the direct and indirect effect of investment in the brand value chain on brand resonance, profitability, and market value. This study is based on a random sample of 237 Certified European Financial Analysts and a questionnaire was employed. Harman’s single-factor test was conducted to define the presence of common method bias. Hayes Process Macro Model 5 was used to check the multiple mediation processes and indirect effects between the study's variables. The study employs the financial statements of Amazon.com, Inc. from 2010 to 2021 which has been analyzed under the standard multiple regression model. The study results reveal that Harman’s single-factor test extracts 10.397% of the total variance. On the other hand, there are significant positive relationships between the effect of investment in the brand value chain on brand resonance, profitability, and market value. The empirical evidence of this study provides an opportunity to learn about the effect of the investment in the brand value chain leads to increase brand equity which builds up in the customers' mindset and then transforms to market performance and profitability. The findings of this study can be a useful reference for future studies in academic research related to strategic thinking to maximize profitability and market value through the brand value chain.
On catatonia again... - literature review
Authors: Rudzinski Gracjan , Brzuszkiewicz Kinga , Pożarowska Kinga , Kusak Natalia , Łozowski Borys , Szczepaniak-Wójtowicz Elżbieta , Soroka Ewelina
Published: April 2023

Introduction: In addition to the symptoms, the symptoms of catatonia have been classified as a subtype of schizophrenia (catatonic schizophrenia). Currently, however, catatonia is treated as a single psychopathological syndrome that can occur in the course of various disorders. Catatonia has been the subject of many disputes in the scientific community over the years, and many of its elements remain unexplored.
Material and method: The aim of the study is to review current research on catatonia in the field of: main, leading to catatonia, neuroimaging, immunology, methods of treatment and psychoactive compounds, COVID-19, therapy of pediatric and geriatric patients. The article reviews research and scientific papers from 2014-2022 on catatonia, interest in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases.
Results: Studies showing a prevalence of catatonia of approximately 10.6 cases per 100,000 tax recipients. The assessment of the prevalence of individual catatonias varies depending on the criteria. Deep vein embolism has been confirmed in approximately 25.3% of patients with cardiac catatonia.
Conclusions: Catatonia is a common neuropsychiatric syndrome that significantly prolongs hospitalization time. Additional studies using the technique of functional neuroimaging of the brain are needed. Effects of treatment with the effect of: zolpidem, memantine, amantadine and augmentation with amisulpiride.
Isometric chin tuck exercise with and without scapular postural correction for patients with chronic neck pain: a longitudinal study
Authors: Yong Joon Hyoung , Moon Il Young , Lim Jin Seok , Yi Chung Hwi
Published: April 2023

Background/Aims

Chronic neck pain is common in individuals with poor posture and motor control impairments. There has been increased interest in scapular postural correction in conjunction with the isometric chin tuck exercise. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of scapular postural correction while performing isometric chin tuck exercises for the improvement of neck pain, neck and shoulder alignment and superficial neck muscle activity in patients with chronic neck pain.

Methods

A total of 32 participants with chronic, non-specific neck pain were randomly divided into two groups (groups A and B, both n=16), who performed isometric chin tuck exercises alone or isometric chin tuck with scapular postural correction respectively. The participants were instructed to perform five sets of the exercise with 10 repetitions for 6 weeks. Measurements were taken pre- and post-intervention to determine Neck Disability Index scores, postural parameters (head, cervical and shoulder angle) and superficial cervical muscle activity (sternocleidomastoid, anterior scalene, splenius capitis). Analysis of covariance was used to compare the post-intervention scores.

Results

Significant differences were observed between groups A and B in the cervical angle (F1,29=4.538, P=0.042) and shoulder angle (F1,29=8.357, P=0.007), when compared to baseline values. Both group A (t=12.097, P<0.001) and group B (t=8.032, P<0.001) showed a significant reduction in Neck Disability Index scores compared to baseline scores. Both group A and group B showed a significant decrease in sternocleidomastoid (group A: t=6.637, P<0.001; group B: t=10.143, P<0.001), anterior scalene (group A, t=5.484, P<0.001; group B, t=8.063, P<0.001), and splenius capitis (group A, t=8.591, P<0.001; group B, t=8.258, P<0.001) muscle activity compared to baseline values.

Conclusions

Isometric chin tuck alone and isometric chin tuck combined with scapular postural correction both showed significant reductions in neck pain and superficial neck muscle activity. Additional scapular postural correction training significantly increased the cervical angle and decreased the shoulder angle.
Three years of COVID-19: improving and advancing rehabilitative processes
Authors: Polastri Massimiliano , Pehlivan Esra
Published: April 2023

This editorial discusses how the rehabilitation field has transformed as a result of COVID-19.
Innovation for All
Authors: Stone Tom , Dyson Lauren
Published: April 2023

In April Texas gets to showcase exactly why it has a growing reputation as one of the leading US states for transportation innovation, as the ITS America Conference & Expo lands between Dallas and Fort Worth to promote knowledge exchange between experts from across the USA and beyond
Data-driven modeling: Where ITS deployment can really pay off
Authors: Winfree Greg
Published: April 2023

“Using AI, we can examine thousands of satellite images and draw impact assumptions much faster than we could before”
Working Together to Improve Cybersecurity
Authors: Eden JJ
Published: April 2023

“Critics say use closed systems, But WE must grow with open systems and not fear bad actors”
Cheap as Chips? Overcoming Semiconductor Supply Issues
Authors: Atkinson David
Published: April 2023

Just about every semiconductor supply chain can be traced back to Taiwan.
Digitisation VS Digitalisation
Authors: Tilley Keith
Published: April 2023

What’s the difference and why does it matter?
Engineering Zero: The Leadership Forums
Authors: Fanning Paul
Published: April 2023

The how, what and when of creating a company-wide net zero strategy for manufacturers and engineers, with practical tools and insights on 27th April 2023.
On the Record
Authors: Norman Helen
Published: April 2023

Stadler reflects on its key – and record breaking – achievements in developing sustainable, battery-powered locomotives, and reveals more about plans for expansion in the US and research into modular and scalable battery systems for passenger trains
Risk Management
Authors: Smith David
Published: April 2023

Leading fire safety experts explore the fail-safe mechanisms and testing procedures being used to ensure the safety of battery-powered trains, and look at what can be learned from the automotive sector