bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super-selective and staged glue embolization for labral AVMs using ultra-thin microcatheters: report of two cases
Authors: Sawano Miyuki , Tanoue Shuichi , Tanaka Norimitsu , Koganemaru Masamichi , Kuhara Asako , Kugiyama Tomoko , Shinjo Yasumoto , Abe Toshi
Published: November 2022

Background

Treating arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is challenging because of the high recurrence rate and because incomplete resection or embolization can induce aggressive growth. However, a standard strategy is not fully established. Although transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is currently almost always part of the treatment, in many cases, single treatment is not curative and only palliative. Additionally, the success and complication rates associated with TAE alone are unclear, and there has been limited study of staged TAE for facial AVMs. Furthermore, few reports have described the details of the procedure.

Case-presentation

We report two cases of AVM of the upper lip in patients who were successfully treated by staged super-selective TAE at several-month intervals using ultra-thin microcatheters and n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate.

Conclusion

Staged and super-selective TAE may prevent complications and provide high curability and might be a useful treatment in cases of AVM.
The role of miRNAs in viral myocarditis, and its possible implication in induction of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines-induced myocarditis
Authors: AbdelMassih Antoine , Agha Hala , El-Saiedi Sonia , El-Sisi Amal , El Shershaby Meryam , Gaber Hanya , Ismail Habiba-Allah , El-Husseiny Nadine , Amin Abeer Reda , ElBoraie Aly , Ayad Aya , Menshawey Esraa , Sefein Fady , Osman Ibrahim Ihab , Moursi Mai , Hanafy Maram , Abdelaziz Mariam Sherif , Arsanyous Mariem Badr , Khaled-Ibn-El-Walid Mariam , Tawfik Marwa Gamal , Habib Menna , Mansour Mina Ehab , Ashraf Mirette , Khattab Mohamed Ayman , Alshehry Nada , Hafez Nada , ElDeeb Naheel Essam , Ashraf Nirvana , Khalil Noha , AbdElSalam Noheir Ismail , Shebl Noura , Hafez Nouran Gamal Ali , Youssef Nourhan Hatem , Bahnan Odette , Ismail Passant , Kelada Peter , Menshawey Rahma , Saeed Rana , Husseiny Reem Jalal , Yasser Reem , Sharaf Safa , Adel Veronia , Naeem Youstina , Nicola Youstina Nagy Farid , Kamel Aya , Hozaien Rafeef , Fouda Raghda
Published: November 2022

Background

Several reports of unheeded complications secondary to the current mass international rollout of SARS-COV-2 vaccines, one of which is myocarditis occurring with the FDA fully approved vaccine, Pfizer, and others.

Main body of the abstract

Certain miRNAs (non-coding RNA sequences) are involved in the pathogenesis in viral myocarditis, and those miRNAs are interestingly upregulated in severe COVID-19. We hypothesize that the use of mRNA-based vaccines may be triggering the release of host miRNAs or that trigger the occurrence of myocarditis. This is based on the finding of altered host miRNA expression promoting virus-induced myocarditis.

Short conclusion

In conclusion, miRNAs are likely implicated in myocarditis associated with mRNA vaccines. Our hypothesis suggests the use of miRNA as a biomarker for the diagnosis of mRNA vaccine-induced myocarditis. Additionally, the interplay between viral miRNA and the host immune system could alter inflammatory profiles, hence suggesting the use of therapeutic inhibition to prevent such complications.
An integration into the diagnostic workflow in a pediatric patient suspected of having Marfan syndrome
Authors: Oro Maria , Tarsitano Marina , Rivieccio Maria , Piscopo Carmelo , Petti Maria Teresa , Bukvic Nenad , Della Monica Matteo , Chetta Massimiliano
Published: November 2022

Background

The genetic approach to Marfan syndrome (MFS) has evolved over the last few decades, as has our understanding of the variants’ potential structural and functional consequences. It has been proposed that next-generation sequencing be used to improve genetic diagnosis and patient management. To this end, we used a targeted NGS custom panel to perform genetic analysis in a patient with MFS and his or her family members.

Case presentation

Here, we describe a novel germ-line heterozygous missense variant (transversion c.5371 T > A) found in exon 43 of the FBN1 gene of a patient (proband) with MFS. FBN1 (ENSG0000166147) and TGFB2 (ENSG0000166147) were included in a targeted sequencing panel for MFS (ENSG0000163513). This new variant c.5371 T > A was identified only in the proband, not in unaffected family members or healthy controls.

Conclusions

Given the massive amount of data generated by gene panel analysis, clinical interpretation of genetic variants may become more difficult. As a result, 3D modeling and multidisciplinary approaches should be used in the analysis and annotation of observed variants. The analysis of the protein’s conformational structure in relation to the identified variant could provide useful information. These data can be used to classify observed variants (pathogenic vs non-pathogenic) linked to the MFS phenotype, as well as to track disease progression and potential target treatments.
Oncology Providers' and Professionals' Experiences With Suicide Risk Screening Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Turner Kea , Stover Angela M. , Tometich Danielle B. , Geiss Carley , Mason Arianna , Nguyen Oliver T. , Hume Emma , McCormick Rachael , Powell Sean , Hallanger-Johnson Julie , Patel Krupal B. , Kirtane Kedar S. , Jammigumpula Neelima , Moore Colin , Perkins Randa , Rollison Dana E. , Jim Heather S.L. , Oswald Laura B. , Crowder Sylvia , Gonzalez Brian D. , Robinson Edmondo , Tabriz Amir Alishahi , Islam Jessica Y. , Gilbert Scott M.
Published: November 2022

PURPOSE:

There has been limited study of the implementation of suicide risk screening for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) as a part of routine care. To address this gap, this study assessed oncology providers' and professionals' perspectives about barriers and facilitators of implementing a suicide risk screening among patients with HNC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

All patients with HNC with an in-person visit completed a suicide risk screening on an electronic tablet. Patients reporting passive death wish were then screened for active suicidal ideation and referred for appropriate intervention. Interviews were conducted with 25 oncology providers and professionals who played a key role in implementation including nurses, medical assistants, patient access representatives, advanced practice providers, physicians, social workers, and informatics staff. The interview guide was based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed for themes.

RESULTS:

Participants identified multilevel implementation barriers, such as intervention level (eg, patient difficulty with using a tablet), process level (eg, limited nursing engagement), organizational level (eg, limited clinic Wi-Fi connectivity), and individual level (eg, low clinician self-efficacy for interpreting and acting upon patient-reported outcome scores). Participants noted facilitators, such as effective care coordination across nursing and social work staff and the opportunity for patients to be screened multiple times. Participants recommended strengthening patient and clinician education and providing patients with other modalities for data entry (eg, desktop computer in the waiting room).

CONCLUSION:

Participants identified important intervention modifications that may be needed to optimize suicide risk screening in cancer care settings.
Bridging the gap between bench and clinic: the importance of understanding the mechanism of iodinated contrast media hypersensitivity
Authors: Sullivan Caitlin M , Paul Narinder S , Rieder Michael J
Published: November 2022

Since the advent of CT, iodinated contract media (ICM) has become one of the most regularly administered intravenous medications in clinical settings. Although considered generally safe, ICM is one of the most common causes of adverse drug reactions in clinical practice, accounting for more than 2 million adverse reactions worldwide. Currently, there are few useful tools to diagnose patient hypersensitivity, with the major limitation being the lack of consensus regarding the mechanisms of hypersensitivity to ICM. While there is an overwhelming abundance of literature pertaining to clinical features including incidence, symptomatology, and risk, few studies have further investigated the underlying mechanisms behind their clinical observations. Of the available literature discussing pathophysiology, most primary studies were completed over 20 years ago, since which the molecular characteristics of ICM have changed. Furthermore, many reviews mentioning pathophysiology fail to adequately emphasize the clinical importance of understanding the molecular pathways involved in hypersensitivity. In this review, we aim to emphasize the clinical relevance of pathophysiology as it relates to the prediction and diagnosis of hypersensitivity reactions to ICM. To this end, we will first briefly characterize hypersensitivity reactions to ICM with respect to epidemiology and clinical presentation. We will then present the existing evidence supporting various proposed mechanisms of hypersensitivity, highlighting the gaps that remain in the mechanistic delineation of both immediate and delayed reactions. Finally, we discuss the possibility of in vitro testing as a way to predict and diagnose hypersensitivity reactions, pending a more complete elucidation of mechanisms.
History of active pedagogy
Authors: Kruglikov Viktor , Gulk Elena , Zaharov Konstantin , Sitnikov Valeriy , Kosolapova Larisa
Published: November 2022

The monograph traces the history of the formation of active learning, which in modern conditions, both in Russia and in world practice, is considered as the main means of improving the quality of education. The characteristics of theories and methods of active learning are given, the conditions and causes of their occurrence are described, their development is traced from a historical perspective. The development of active pedagogy is considered in the context of the confrontation between active and reproductive approaches to learning, which has taken place throughout the history of mankind. Attention is drawn to the fact that active learning has become widespread and theoretically justified only in the twentieth century, although historically it is the methods of active learning that have priority in teaching. The current state of active pedagogy and trends in its development are also considered.
For a wide range of readers interested in parenting and education. It can be useful for students, postgraduates and teachers of pedagogical universities.
Journal scan
Authors: Welyczko Nikki
Published: November 2022

A brief overview of recently published articles on gastroenterology, hepatology and stoma care
Knowledge of perianal Crohn's disease among nurses in an Italian tertiary centre
Authors: Napolitano Daniele , Cioffi Federica , Marocchini Giannina , Bernabei Tiziana , Leonetti Alessia , Fanali Caterina , Orgiana Nicoletta , Amatucci Valeria , Gasbarrini Antonio , Ratto Carlo , Litta Francesco , Scaldaferri Franco
Published: November 2022

Background:

Patients with Crohn's disease can develop anal and perianal lesions, such as fistulas, ulcers, skin tags, perianal abscesses and strictures. Perianal Crohn's disease (PCD) is a condition that has a major impact on patients' quality of life. The multidisciplinary team includes a nurse who manages the patient according to evidence-based medicine. Clinical practice and post-registration training are the way forward for nurses to acquire the skills needed to deliver quality care.

Aims:

This study explored the assessment of nurses' knowledge of PCD. A cross-sectional survey was used to look at the nurses' knowledge.

Methods:

The questionnaire was administered over 2 months, between September and October 2019. The questionnaire was anonymous, validated by a panel of experts in the field and consisted of 30 questions to assess knowledge and two questions to assess the need for training. It was directed to 120 clinical nurses in the departments of medicine and abdominal surgery.

Results:

There were 120 nurses enrolled, and 64.2% of nurses had cared for patients with PCD at least once. The survey showed a fairly low level of knowledge of the diagnostic and therapeutic care pathways for patients affected by PCD. On the other hand, a high need for training and in-depth study of the subject emerged.

Conclusion:

The nurse, an integral part of the multidisciplinary team, plays an important role in the education of these patients. Nurses' present level of knowledge can certainly be improved thanks to their willingness to undertake training courses or to use information tools.
An Improved Optimal Channel Sensing Algorithm in Cognitive Radio Networks Used for Video Surveillance
Authors: Joon Ranjita , Tomar Parul
Published: November 2022

With a rapid rise in the number of wireless devices and gadgets, a shortage in the spectrum bands for wireless communications has been observed. To overcome this problem of shortage of spectrum bands, a new technology called Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) was adopted. CRNs help us utilize the spectrum bands which are currently being underutilized by opportunistically and intelligently switching to these underutilized white spaces. Thus, CRNs aim to use the frequency spectrum in an opportunistic manner by allowing different users to operate in available frequency bands without interference. In this paper, Double Q Learning (DQN) with prioritized experience relay approach has been used to study the throughput of the network at different parameters and to draw a relationship between throughput and Probability of Undetectable User Transmission. Double Q Learning (DQN) with prioritized experience relay is a reinforcement learning based method that adds backward exploration to the forward exploration of Q Learning method. Both forward and backward exploration are used to update the Q values. Since the sensor nodes in the cognitive environment have limited energy, and sensing the spectrum band involves energy consumption, so the technique for sensing should be energy efficient so that the sensor nodes can be effectively used for various operations of video surveillance.
Mid-wave infrared polarization detection of ship targets for small temperature difference conditions
Authors: Zhu Deyan , Fu Xiaoxuan , Tang Junwei , Su Jingqin , Xu Zhenyu , Cao Anjie
Published: November 2022

Ship detection under small temperature difference conditions is an
important research direction for infrared (IR) detection of typical
targets at present. To solve the problems of low contrast and
difficult recognition of ship IR imaging due to small temperature
differences, the degree of polarization (DOP) images is applied to the
field of low-temperature aberration imaging based on the polarization
principle. Meanwhile, the misalignment problem caused by the lens
jitter in the polarization calculation is solved by the proposed
mutual information iterative algorithm. We demonstrate improvement in
the target/background local contrast of low-temperature aberration
imaging by using the difference in polarization characteristics
between the target and the background. The effectiveness of the method
was verified by experiments. The results show that the contrast of DOP
images combined with multi-angle polarization information is about 30
times higher indoors and three times higher outdoors than IR intensity
images. Therefore, the IR polarization detection technique based on
DOP images can effectively deal with the problem of low imaging
contrast caused by small temperature differences.
Average signal-to-noise ratio maximization for an intelligent reflecting surface and angle diversity receiver jointly assisted indoor visible light communication system
Authors: Yang Ting , Wang Ping , Li Ganggang , Wang Hetong , Li Shuang , Shi Huili , He Huimeng , Shi Fengyuan , Chi Sihui
Published: November 2022

The intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) and angle diversity receiver
(ADR) jointly assisted indoor visible light communication (VLC) system
is proposed to improve average signal-to-noise ratio (ASNR)
performance. Specifically, to maximize the ASNR at the receiving
plane, the roll angle and yaw angle of IRS and the inclination angle
of the side detector in the ADR structure are optimized simultaneously
as one non-convex problem. With the bat algorithm, the optimal
solution is numerically obtained. Results show that when the transmit
power of the light emitting diode lamp array is 1 W, the ASNRs
of this VLC system optimized by IRS and ADR are approximately
7.89 dB, 3.58 dB, and 2.09 dB higher than those
of the original, IRS-assisted, and ADR-assisted VLC systems,
respectively. Furthermore, the transmission rate and bit error rate
performances of the original, IRS-assisted, ADR-assisted, and IRS and
ADR jointly assisted indoor VLC systems are also simulated and
compared; it is found that the performance improvement of the indoor
VLC system jointly optimized by IRS and ADR is more evident than that
of the other three VLC systems. This study will benefit the research
and development of indoor VLC systems.
Reverse engineering of e-beam deposited optical filters based on multi-sample photometric and ellipsometric data
Authors: Amotchkina Tatiana , Trubetskov Michael , Janicki Vesna , Sancho-Parramon Jordi
Published: November 2022

A post-production characterization approach based on spectral
photometric and ellipsometric data related to a specially prepared set
of samples is proposed. Single-layer (SL) and multilayer (ML) sets of
samples presenting building blocks of the final sample were measured
ex-situ, and reliable thicknesses and
refractive indices of the final ML were determined. Different
characterization strategies based on ex-situ measurements of the final ML sample were tried,
reliability of their results was compared, and the best
characterization approach for practical use, when preparation of the
mentioned set of samples would be a luxury, is proposed.
All fiber watt-level fiber source at 760 nm generated through four-wave mixing in a photonic crystal fiber
Authors: Gattass Rafael R. , Rhonehouse Daniel L. , Shaw L. Brandon , Chin Geoffrey D. , Carlson Augustus X. , Bayya Shyam S. , Sanghera Jasbinder S.
Published: November 2022

There are limited fiber-based single-mode laser sources over the visible and near infrared range. Nonlinear conversion through four-wave mixing in photonic crystal fibers allows for the generation of new wavelengths far from a pump wavelength. Utilizing an all-fiber spliced configuration, we convert 1064 nm light into a W-level signal in the 750 nm – 820 nm spectral region. We demonstrate over 7.9 watts in the signal band, out of a custom photonic crystal fiber with M2 < 1.15. The input peak power as well as fiber length can be selected to keep the converted power in a 0.6 nm narrow emission band or broaden the output to 45 nm spectral band with spectral density greater than 50 mW/nm by pumping with higher peak powers.
Quantitative analysis on self-focusing properties of H-PDLC flexible curved radius gratings
Authors: Shen Tong , Liu Yourong , Li Pengfei , Zheng Jihong
Published: November 2022

In general, the shape of traditional holographic grating is fixed and immutable, the period will not change after fabrication, this means that the modulation effect on the light field is unalterable. However, traditional grating cannot satisfy all requirements of current optical systems. In order to increase the versatility of holographic grating, a flexible curved radius grating (FCRG) which consists of holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) was proposed. The FCRG has an important self-focusing property that it can be adjusted the focal length by changing its own radius of curvature correspondingly. In this paper, we use the scalar diffraction theory to analysis the interference and diffraction processes for FCRG under different conditions, then a relationship equation has been deduced to express quantitatively about FCRG between its radius and focal length. According to the relationship, a tunable holographic element is achieved for the function of mechanically-controlled self-focusing effect. Experiments show that the FCRG has two conjugated focusing effects on the positive first-order and negative first-order, both two effects can achieve focus-adjusted ability by changing their radius of curvature. The FCRG provides a way for the coupler of curved waveguide display system for augmented reality in the future.
Investigating non-reciprocity in time-periodic media using a perturbative approach
Authors: Sotoodehfar Amirhosein , Boshgazi Somayeh , Memarian Mohammad , Rejaei Behzad , Mehrany Khashayar
Published: November 2022

Lorentz famous theorem leads to clear reciprocity conditions for linear, time-invariant media based on their constitutive parameters. By contrast, reciprocity conditions for linear time-varying media are not fully explored. In this paper, we investigate whether, and how a structure containing a time-periodic medium can be truly identified as reciprocal or not. To that end, a necessary and sufficient condition is derived which requires both the constitutive parameters and the electromagnetic fields inside the dynamic structure. As solving for the fields for such problems is challenging, a perturbative approach is proposed which expresses the aforementioned non-reciprocity condition in terms of the electromagnetic fields and the Green’s functions of the unperturbed static problem and is particularly applicable for the case of structures with weak time modulation. Reciprocity of two famous canonical time-varying structures are then studied using the proposed approach and their reciprocity/non-reciprocity is investigated. In the case of one-dimensional propagation in a static medium with two point-wise modulations, our proposed theory clearly explains the often observed maximization of non-reciprocity when the modulation phase difference between the two points is 90 degrees. In order to validate the perturbative approach, analytical and Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) methods are employed. Then, solutions are compared and considerable agreement between them is observed.
Cold-atom shaping with MEMS scanning mirrors
Authors: Bregazzi Alan , Janin Paul , Dyer Sean , McGilligan James P. , Burrow Oliver , Riis Erling , Uttamchandani Deepak , Bauer Ralf , Griffin Paul F.
Published: November 2022

We demonstrate the integration of micro-electro-mechanical-systems
(MEMS) scanning mirrors as active elements for the local optical
pumping of ultra-cold atoms in a magneto-optical trap. A pair of MEMS
mirrors steer a focused resonant beam through a cloud of trapped atoms
shelved in the F = 1 ground-state of
87Rb for spatially selective fluorescence of the atom
cloud. Two-dimensional control is demonstrated by forming geometrical
patterns along the imaging axis of the cold atom ensemble. Such
control of the atomic ensemble with a microfabricated mirror pair
could find applications in single atom selection, local optical
pumping, and arbitrary cloud shaping. This approach has significant
potential for miniaturization and in creating portable control systems
for quantum optic experiments.
Modeling road accident fatalities with underdispersion and zero-inflated counts
Authors: Simmachan Teerawat , Wongsai Noppachai , Wongsai Sangdao , Lerdsuwansri Rattana
Published: November 2022

In 2013, Thailand was ranked second in the world in road accident fatalities (RAFs), with 36.2 per 100,000 people. During the Songkran festival, which takes place during the traditional Thai New Year in April, the number of road traffic accidents (RTAs) and RAFs are markedly higher than on regular days, but few studies have investigated this issue as an effect of festivity. This study investigated the factors that contribute to RAFs using various count regression models. Data on 20,229 accidents in 2015 were collected from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation in Thailand. The Poisson and Conway–Maxwell–Poisson (CMP) distributions, and their zero-Inflated (ZI) versions were applied to fit the data. The results showed that RAFs in Thailand follow a count distribution with underdispersion and excessive zeros, which is rare. The ZICMP model marginally outperformed the CMP model, suggesting that having many zeros does not necessarily mean that the ZI model is required. The model choice depends on the question of interest, and a separate set of predictors highlights the distinct aspects of the data. Using ZICMP, road, weather, and environmental factors affected the differences in RAFs among all accidents, whereas month distinguished actual non-fatal accidents and crashes with or without deaths. As expected, actual non-fatal accidents were 2.37 times higher in April than in January. Using CMP, these variables were significant predictors of zeros and frequent deaths in each accident. The RAF average was surprisingly higher in other months than in January, except for April, which was unexpectedly lower. Thai authorities have invested considerable effort and resources to improve road safety during festival weeks to no avail. However, our study results indicate that people’s risk perceptions and public awareness of RAFs are misleading. Therefore, nationwide road safety should instead be advocated by the authorities to raise society’s awareness of everyday personal safety and the safety of others.
Teenage pregnancy and timing of first marriage in Cameroon—What has changed over the last three decades, and what are the implications?
Authors: Fotso Jean Christophe , Cleland John G. , Muki Berienis , Adje Olaïtan Elihou , Ngo Mayack Josiane
Published: November 2022

Background

The consequences of teenage childbearing on the health of mothers and children, and on girls’ schooling have been documented in many studies. The objectives of this study are to: 1) examine trends and differentials in teenage motherhood in Cameroon, with a distinction between premarital and marital teenage pregnancy; and 2) investigate trends and differentials in the length of time to marriage following a premarital teenage pregnancy.

Methods

We use data from five demographic and health surveys (DHS) conducted in Cameroon between 1991 and 2018. Teenage pregnancy, defined as first pregnancy occurring before the age of 20 years, is recode as a trichotomous variable (0 = No teenage pregnancy; 1 = marital teenage pregnancy; 2 = premarital teenage pregnancy). Time from first premarital teenage pregnancy to first marriage is analyzed as a continuous variable.

Results

The percentage of women who experienced a marital teenage pregnancy declined from 39.6% to 26.4% between 1991 and 2018. After an initial drop between 1991 and 2004, premarital teenage pregnancy stabilized at about 25%. Women with intermediate levels of schooling were more likely to experience a premarital pregnancy than those with no schooling or higher secondary/tertiary education. The median length of time to first marriage following a premarital teenage pregnancy rose from 16 months in 1991 to 45 months in 2018. Further analysis suggests that marriage may be a more severe barrier to continued schooling than motherhood and that the desire to continue schooling is an important reason for postponing marriage for women who have given birth.

Conclusion and recommendations

Besides strengthening interventions to curb adolescent pregnancy, efforts should be made to support families, communities and schools to help adolescent mothers return to school, prevent future unintended pregnancies, and delay further family formation. Accessibility to youth-friendly FP/RH services should be addressed.
Brain activity response to cues during gait in Parkinson’s disease: A study protocol
Authors: Vitório Rodrigo , Morris Rosie , Das Julia , Walker Richard , Mancini Martina , Stuart Samuel
Published: November 2022

Various cueing strategies (internal and external) have been used to alleviate gait deficits in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, it remains unclear which type of cueing strategy is most effective at different disease stages or with more severe walking impairment, such as freezing of gait (FOG). The underlying neural mechanisms of response to cueing are also unknown. This trial aims to: (i) determine brain activity response to cue stimulus (internal, visual, auditory or tactile) when walking in PD and; (ii) examine changes in brain activity to cues at different stages of PD. This ongoing single-site study uses an exploratory observational design, with laboratory application of cues for gait deficit. A total of 80 people with PD who meet the inclusion criteria will be enrolled. Participants are split into groups dependent on their disease stage (classified with the Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) scale); n = 20 H&YI; n = 30 H&YII; n = 30 H&YIII. Within the H&Y stage II and III groups, we will also ensure recruitment of a sub-group of 15 individuals with FOG within each group. Participants perform walking tasks under several conditions: baseline walking without cues; randomized cued walking conditions [internal and external (visual, auditory and tactile) cues]. A combined functional near-infrared spectroscopy and electroencephalography system quantifies cortical brain activity while walking. Inertial sensors are used to assess gait. Primary outcome measures are cue-related changes in cortical brain activity while walking, including the relative change in cortical HbO2and the power spectral densities at alpha (8-13Hz), beta (13-30Hz), delta (0.5-4Hz), theta (4-8Hz) and gamma (30-40Hz) frequency bandwidths. Secondary outcome measures are cue-related changes in spatiotemporal gait characteristics. Findings will enhance our understanding about the cortical responses to different cueing strategies and how they are influenced by PD progression and FOG status. This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04863560; April 28, 2021,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04863560).
Oral health and oral health-related quality of life in patients with chronic peripheral facial nerve palsy with synkineses—A case-control-study
Authors: Strobelt Lisa , Kuttenreich Anna-Maria , Volk Gerd Fabian , Beurskens Carien , Lehmann Thomas , Schüler Ina Manuela
Published: November 2022

Facial nerve palsy (FP) is the most common cranial nerve lesion, leading to partial or complete immobility of the affected half of face. If food residues on tooth surfaces cannot be removed by natural self-cleaning mechanisms that this is likely to lead to an increase dental plaque formation and the risk of dental, periodontal and general diseases. It was the aim of this study to assess oral health, oral hygiene with the influence of handedness and oral health related quality of life in patients with chronic peripheral FP. This study included 86 people. Patients with FP (n = 43) in an FP-group (FPG) were matched with 43 participants without ever diagnosed FP in a control group (CG). Oral health and oral hygiene were assessed in a clinical examination performed in hospital. Decayed-missing-filled-teeth-index, periodontal-screening-index, approximal plaque index and sulcus bleeding index were used to evaluate dental caries and periodontal health status. Oral health-related quality of life data (OHQoL) was collected with the Oral health impact profile (Germany-14) by interview. Oral health parameters in the FPG were significantly worse than in the CG. The median revealed 14.3% more proximal plaque (p = 0.014), 20.8% more sulcus bleeding (p = 0.002) and more than twice as much caries (p = 0.024). The paretic side compared to the non-paretic side of patients was significantly more affected by inflammatory periodontal diseases (p = 0.032) and had a higher prevalence of caries (p = 0.163). Right-handed patients with right-sided FP performed worse than right-handed patients with left-sided FP (p = 0.004). Patients with FP described a greater limitation of OHQoL than patients without this disease (p < 0.001). In conclusion, facial nerve palsy affects oral health, oral hygiene and OHQoL of patients while handedness influences oral hygiene and oral health.
The impacts of training on change deafness and build-up in a flicker task
Authors: Ball Natalie , Wisniewski Matthew , Simpson Brian , Mercado Eduardo
Published: November 2022

Performance on auditory change detection tasks can be improved by training. We examined the stimulus specificity of these training effects in behavior and ERPs. A flicker change detection task was employed in which spatialized auditory scenes were alternated until a "change" or "same" response was made. For half of the trials, scenes were identical. The other half contained changes in the spatial locations of objects from scene to scene. On Day 1, participants were either trained on this auditory change detection task (trained group), or trained on a non-auditory change detection task (control group). On Day 2, all participants were tested on the flicker task while EEG was recorded. The trained group showed greater change detection accuracy than the control group. They were less biased to respond "same" and showed full generalization of learning from trained to novel auditory objects. ERPs for "change" compared to "same" trials showed more negative going P1, N1, and P2 amplitudes, as well as a larger P3b amplitude. The P3b amplitude also differed between the trained and control group, with larger amplitudes for the trained group. Analysis of ERPs to scenes viewed prior to a decision revealed build-up of a difference between "change" and "same" trials in N1 and P2. Results demonstrate that training has an impact early in the "same" versus "change" decision-making process, and that the flicker paradigm combined with the ERP method can be used to study the build-up of change detection in auditory scenes.
Respiratory frequency-tunable dynamic imaging for lung function: New exam method using chest X-ray cine imaging considering various respiratory diseases
Authors: Abe Takehiko , Yoshida Norifumi , Shimada Tetsuo , Nakashima Masanao , Nagai Atsushi
Published: November 2022

Objectives

A convenient way to conduct pulmonary function tests while preventing infectious diseases was proposed, together with countermeasures for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The correlation between diagnosis result and diagnosis result was examined for patients with mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) of the most abounding as a subject of spirometry, and the possibility of using this method as an alternative to spirometry was examined.

Setting

This study was conducted in Kanagawa, Japan.

Participants

Ten normal volunteers and 15 volunteers with mild COPD participated in this study.

Outcome measures

All images were taken by EXAVISTA (Hitachi, Japan) between October 2019 and February 2020. Continuous fluoroscopic images were taken in 12.5 frames per second for 10–20 s per subject. Images that do not adopt the automatic image processing of the equipment and only carry out the signal correction of each pixel were used for the analysis.

Results

The mean total dose for all volunteers was 0.2 mGy. There was no major discrepancy in the detection of lung field geometry, and no diagnostic problems were noted by the radiologist and physician.

Conclusions

Existing X-ray cine imaging was used to extract frequency-tunable imaging. It is possible to identify abnormal regions on the images compared to spirometry, and it does not require maximum effort respiration; therefore, it is possible to perform a stable examination because the patient’s physical condition and the ability of laboratory technicians on the day are less affected. This can also be used as a countermeasure in examining patients with infectious diseases.

Trial registration

UMIN UMIN000043868.
Spatial heterogeneity of internal migration in China: The role of economic, social and environmental characteristics
Authors: Xia Haibin , Qingchun Liu , Baptista Emerson Augusto
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this paper is to explore the spatial heterogeneity of internal migration in China and to discuss the influence of economic, social and environmental characteristics on this demographic process. The overall results suggest that migration in China occurred from inland to coastal areas and from rural areas to urban areas. By stepwise regression, we identified that 9 out of 15 factors with potential influence on internal migration were retained, and the multicollinearity among them was reduced. In addition, we used the OLS and GWR regression analysis to discuss the global and local effects of relevant factors on internal migration. Economic scale (GDP), population concentration (population density) and demographic dividend (labour force proportion) were the three main driving forces of internal migration. In turn, internal migration further widened the gap of economic scale, population agglomeration and demographic dividend between counties and cities. Internal migration in southern coastal areas of China was most affected by economic aspects and demographic dividend. In the central China, the population was more concentrated in high-density cities, while in the eastern regions, areas with high level of education were conducive to immigration, thus forming talent reserve highlands. In the west, areas with highly educated level faced out-migration, which might cause brain drain and widen further the gap in talent reserves between the east and the west in China. From the perspective of location, the net immigration of the provincial capital was accompanied by the net immigration of the surrounding area, which was conducive to the formation of city clusters or urban sprawl. On the other side, the net immigration in prefecture-level cities often meant the net out-migration in surrounding areas. The correlation is particularly strong in eastern coastal provinces.
Pain perception genes, asthma, and oral health: A reverse genetics study
Authors: Lisboa Rosany O. , Sekula Raymond F. , Bezamat Mariana , Deeley Kathleen , Santana-da-Silva Luiz Carlos , Vieira Alexandre R.
Published: November 2022

Pain is an experience of a subjective nature, interpreted in a personal way and according to an extensive palette of factors unique to each individual. Orofacial pain can be acute or chronic and it is usually the main reason for the patient to seek dental care. Pain perception varies widely among individuals. This variability is considered a mosaic of factors, which include biopsychosocial factors and genetic factors. Understanding these differences can be extremely beneficial for pain management in a personalized and more efficient way. We performed association studies to investigate phenotypes associated with genetic markers in pain-related genes in two groups of patients who received more or less anesthesia during dental treatment. The study group was comprised of 1289 individuals participating in the Dental Registry and DNA Repository Project (DRDR) of the University of Pittsburgh, with 900 participants in the group that received the most anesthesia and 389 constituting the comparison group that received less anesthesia. We tested 58 phenotypes and genotypic data of seven SNPs in genes that are associated with pain perception, pain modulation and response to drugs used in pain treatment: COMT (rs4818 and rs6269), GCH1 (rs3783641), DRD2 (rs6276), OPRM1 (rs1799971), SCN9A (rs6746030) and SCN10A (rs6795970). The analysis revealed a protective effect of rs1799971 on asthma in the total sample. rs3783641 was associated with salivary secretion disorders in females who received more anesthesia. rs1799971 was also associated with periodontitis in Whites who received less anesthesia. rs4818 was associated with disease and other tongue conditions in the group composed of Blacks who received less anesthesia. In conclusion, our study implicated variants in pain-related genes in asthma and oral phenotypes.
Genetic diversity, asexual reproduction and conservation of the edible fruit tree Spondias purpurea L. (Anacardiaceae) in the Costa Rican tropical dry forest
Authors: Cristóbal-Pérez E. Jacob , Fuchs Eric J. , Lobo Jorge , Quesada Mauricio
Published: November 2022

The term circa situm has been used to describe different conservation strategies within agricultural landscapes. Circa situm conserves planted or remnant species in farmlands, where natural vegetation has been modified through anthropogenic intervention. It has been proposed that trees planted or retained under circa situm conditions may contribute to maintaining genetic diversity, however information on the role of this strategy in preserving genetic diversity is scarce. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of genetic diversity and structure, and mating patterns in planted and unmanaged stands of the tropical fruit tree Spondias purpurea L. in north western Costa Rica. In three localities, we used seven polymorphic microsatellite loci and genotyped 201 adults and 648 seeds from planted and wild stands. We found no differences in genetic diversity among planted and wild stands. Genetic structure analysis revealed that gene flow occurs among planted and wild stands within localities. Clones were present and their diversity and evenness were both high and similar between planted and wild stands. The number of pollen donors per progeny array was low (Nep = 1.01) which resulted in high levels of correlated paternity (rp = 0.9). Asexual seeds were found in 4.6% of the progeny arrays, which had multilocus genotypes that were identical to the maternal trees. Our results show that although planted stands under circa situm conditions can maintain similar levels of genetic diversity than wild stands, the low number of sires and asexual seed formation could threaten the long term persistence of populations.
Latin American Internet Survey for Men who have Sex with Men (LAMIS-2018): Design, methods and implementation
Authors: Reyes-Díaz Michael , Celly Ana , Folch Cinta , Lorente Nicolas , Stuardo Valeria , Veras Maria Amelia , Barros Henrique , Meireles Paula , Ramírez Dorian , Jonas Kai J. , Marcus Ulrich , Schmidt Axel J. , Caceres Carlos F. , Casabona Jordi
Published: November 2022

Despite men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) from Latin America (LA) are still a vulnerable population for known health-related conditions and social problems, availability of comparable data across LA countries for assessment and monitoring purposes is limited. The objective of this article is to present the study design and the questionnaire of LAMIS-2018 (Latin America MSM Internet Survey), its recruitment strategy, rates and sources by country, and the lessons learned from its implementation. LAMIS-2018 was a cross-sectional, internet-based survey targeting MSM living in 18 LA countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela) that gathered data about sexual behaviors, HIV/STI and viral hepatitis knowledge, prophylactic use of antiretrovirals, psychosocial health, and access to sexual health services. The survey went online for four months and was available in three languages (Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch). Promotion was carried out using dating apps, websites, social networks, and by community-based and academic organizations of each participating country directly in gay venues and in their own premises. Overall, 64,655 MSM participated in LAMIS-2018. Dating apps and websites were the most important recruitment source in most countries, except for Honduras, Nicaragua, and Suriname, where community-based organizations recruited most of the participants. Beyond the LAMIS-2018 implementation description, we highlight the feasibility of such a study in this context, based on the collaboration between community-based and academic organizations to obtain a large sample of MSM in the region. LAMIS-2018 data will contribute to identify determinants of risk behaviors and prevention needs of vulnerable MSM populations in each country of the region.
Significant adhesion reduction and time saving in pediatric heart surgery with 4DryField PH: A retrospective, controlled study
Authors: Cesnjevar Robert , Purbojo Ariawan , Haake Claas , Laas Joachim
Published: November 2022

Adhesions formation after surgery for congenital heart defects can complicate follow-up procedures due to bleeding from detached adhesion bands, injury to cardiac structures or large vessels, all of which do prolong operation times. The problem is enhanced by the fact that detached adhesions are predilection sites for new adhesions setting off a downward spiral. 4DryField® PH gel barrier has demonstrated high efficacy in reducing postoperative adhesions in general surgical and gynecological studies. This retrospective controlled study of 22 patients evaluates whether these positive results can be confirmed in pediatric cardiac surgery. Adhesions were scored from photographs of follow-up interventions by an independent cardiac surgeon blinded to group assignment. The publication provides not only score numbers but also original photographs of all sites for better traceability and transparency. In addition, timesaving due to reduced adhesions was evaluated. Results show a significantly reduced adhesion score for the 4DryField® group. Importantly, this resulted in a significantly shorter period between skin incision and start of cardiopulmonary bypass. In addition, timesaving due reduced adhesion formation was evaluated. The use of 4DryField® was safe, although higher doses per kg were used than in adults.
Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on the mobility of stroke survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Park Moonkyoung , Song Rhayun , Ju Kyoungok , Seo Jisu , Fan Xing , Ryu Ahyun , Li YueLin , Jang Taejeong
Published: November 2022

Background

Stroke survivors often experience impaired mobility and physical functions. Tai Chi and Qigong have been shown to have physical and psychological benefits for stroke patients.

Purpose

To summarize the evidence on Tai Chi and Qigong for improving mobility in stroke survivors, specifically the ability to walk, dynamic balance, and activities of daily living (ADL).

Methods

Independent searches of 16 electronic databases in English, Korean, and Chinese from their inception until December 2021 were conducted by two research teams. Methodological quality was assessed using Cochrane’s risk of bias tool 2.0. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 3.0 software was used to calculate effect sizes with subgroup analysis and to assess heterogeneity and publication bias.

Results

The meta-analysis included 27 randomized trials (18 with Tai Chi and 9 with Qigong) on stroke survivors (N = 1,919). None of the studies were considered at high risk of bias, about 70% had some concerns, and 30% were considered low risk. Meta-analysis of 27 randomized controlled trials with random-effects models indicated that Tai Chi and Qigong effectively improved mobility, specifically on the ability to walk (Hedges’g = 0.81), dynamic balance (Hedges’g = 1.04), and ADL (Hedges’g = 0.43). The effects of Tai Chi and Qigong were significant for short-term and long-term programs (Hedges’g 0.91 vs. 0.75), and when compared with active controls and no treatment group (Hedges’g 0.81 vs. 0.73).

Conclusion

Tai Chi and Qigong performed for 12 weeks or less were effective in improving the mobility of stroke survivors. Further studies are warranted to assess whether Tai Chi and Qigong work best as an adjunct to rehabilitation, an effective alternative to rehabilitation or as a maintenance strategy, and whether the results could be further optimized by assessing different schools of Tai Chi and Qigong, different types of stroke patients, and different points in the post-stroke recovery process.

PROSPERO registration number

This study has been registered on the UK National Institute for Health Research (http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO) PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020220277.