bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An exploration of expectations and perceptions of practicing physicians on the implementation of computerized clinical decision support systems using a Qsort approach
Authors: Van Biesen Wim , Van Cauwenberge Daan , Decruyenaere Johan , Leune Tamara , Sterckx Sigrid
Published: July 2022

Background

There is increasing interest in incorporating clinical decision support (CDS) into electronic healthcare records (EHR). Successful implementation of CDS systems depends on acceptance of them by healthcare workers. We used a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods starting from Qsort methodology to explore expectations and perceptions of practicing physicians on the use of CDS incorporated in EHR.

Methods

The study was performed in a large tertiary care academic hospital. We used a mixed approach with a Q-sort based classification of pre-defined reactions to clinical case vignettes combined with a thinking-aloud approach, taking into account COREQ recommendations The open source software of Ken-Q Analysis version 1.0.6. was used for the quantitative analysis, using principal components and a Varimax rotation. For the qualitative analysis, a thematic analysis based on the four main themes was performed based on the audiotapes and field notes.

Results

Thirty physicians were interviewed (7 in training, 8 junior staff and 15 senior staff; 16 females). Nearly all respondents were strongly averse towards interruptive messages, especially when these also were obstructive. Obstructive interruption was considered to be acceptable only when it increases safety, is adjustable to user expertise level and/or allows deviations when the end-user explains why a deviation is desirable in the case at issue. Transparency was deemed an essential feature, which seems to boil down to providing sufficient clarification on the factors underlying the recommendations of the CDS, so that these can be compared against the physicians’ existing knowledge, beliefs and convictions.

Conclusion

Avoidance of disruptive workflows and transparency of the underlying decision processes are important points to consider when developing CDS systems incorporated in EHR.
Are nurse`s needs assessment methods robust enough to recognise palliative care needs in people with dementia? A scoping review
Authors: de Wolf-Linder Susanne , Reisinger Margarete , Gohles Elisabeth , Wolverson Emma L. , Schubert Maria , Murtagh Fliss E. M.
Published: July 2022

Background

People with dementia are most at risk of experiencing serious health related suffering, if they do not have a palliative care approach introduced early enough in the illness. It can be challenging for nurses to assess experienced needs of people, who are thought no longer able to self-report such as people with dementia. Assessment help to understand the care the patient and their family need promptly. It is unknown how nurses recognise holistic palliative care needs in people with dementia during routine care.

Methods

Scoping review where EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo databases, and references were searched with an advanced search strategy, which was built on three concepts (nurses, dementia, and nursing assessment) using corresponding Medical Subject Headings. Data were charted in a piloted extraction form, based on the assessment domains within the nursing process followed by summarise and synthesise results narratively.

Results

37 out of 2,028 qualitative and quantitative articles published between 2000 and 2021, and relating to 2600 + nurses, were identified. Pain was sole focus of assessment in 29 articles, leaving 8 articles to describe assessment of additional needs (e.g., discomfort). Nurses working in a nursing home assess pain and other needs by observing the persons with dementia behaviour during routine care. Nurses in the acute care setting are more likely to assess symptoms with standard assessment tools at admission and evaluate symptoms by observational methods. Across settings, about one third of pain assessments are supported by person-centred pain assessment tools. Assessments were mostly triggered when the person with dementia vocalised discomfort or a change in usual behaviour was observed. Nurses rely on family members and colleagues to gain more information about needs experienced by people with dementia.

Conclusion

There is a scarcity of evidence about techniques and methods used by nurses to assess needs other than pain experienced by people with dementia. A holistic, person-centred screening tool to aid real-time observations at the bedside and used in conversations with health care professionals and families/friends, may improve need recognition other than pain, to ensure holistic needs could then be addressed timely to improve care in people with dementia.
Appendicular skeletal muscle mass assessment in dogs: a scoping literature review
Authors: Kim Ah Young , Elam Lindsay Hochman , Lambrechts Nicolaas Everhardus , Salman Mo D. , Duerr Felix Michael
Published: July 2022

Background

Monitoring changes in appendicular skeletal muscle mass is frequently used as a surrogate marker for limb function. The primary objective of this study was to review scientific information related to the assessment of appendicular skeletal muscle mass in dogs. The secondary objective was to develop practical recommendations for serial evaluation of muscle mass.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted with a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, CAB abstract, and Cochrane from inception to June 2021. The following modalities were included in the search: limb circumference, diagnostic ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.

Results

A total of 62 articles that measured appendicular skeletal muscle mass in dogs were identified. Limb circumference (55 articles) was the most commonly used modality. Its reliability was investigated in five studies. Several factors, including measuring tape type, body position, joint angles, and the presence of hair coat, were reported as variables that can affect measurements. Diagnostic ultrasound (five articles) was validated in three articles, but there is scarce information about observer reliability and variables affecting the measurement. Computed tomography (four articles) and magnetic resonance imaging (one article) have been used to validate other modalities at a single time point rather than as a clinical tool for serial muscle mass monitoring. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (two articles) has been used to quantify specific skeletal muscle mass but was mainly used to evaluate body composition in dogs.

Conclusion

Limb circumference and ultrasound are likely the main modalities that will continue to be used for serial muscle mass measurement in the clinical setting unless a new technology is developed. The reliability of limb circumference is questionable. Several key factors, including measuring tape type, body position, joint angles, and coat clipping, need to be controlled to improve the reliability of limb circumference measurements. Ultrasound may provide a reasonable alternative, but further studies are required to evaluate the reliability of this modality and identify factors that influence ultrasound measurements.
Efficient molasses utilization for low-molecular-weight poly-γ-glutamic acid production using a novel Bacillus subtilis strain
Authors: Li Jing , Chen Shengbao , Fu Jiaming , Xie Jianchun , Ju Jiansong , Yu Bo , Wang Limin
Published: July 2022

Background

Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is a biopolymer and has various applications based on its biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and edibility. Low-molecular-weight (Mw)-γ-PGA has promising applications in agriculture and pharmaceuticals. It is traditionally produced by enzymatic hydrolysis. Cost-effective bioproduction of low-Mw-γ-PGA is essential for commercial application of γ-PGA.

Results

Bacillus subtilis 242 is a newly isolated low-Mw-γ-PGA-producing strain. To develop cost-effective production of γ-PGA using this newly isolated strain, cane molasses and corn steep liquor were used to produce γ-PGA. The concentration of cane molasses was optimized and 100 g/L cane molasses resulted in high γ-PGA production. The effects of yeast extract and corn steep liquor on γ-PGA yield were investigated. High concentration of γ-PGA was obtained in the medium with corn steep liquor. A concentration of 32.14 g/L γ-PGA was achieved in fed-batch fermentation, with a productivity of 0.67 g/L/h and a percentage yield (gγ-PGA/gglutamate) of 106.39%. The Mw of γ-PGA was 27.99 kDa.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the potential application of B. subtilis 242 for cost-effective production of low-Mw-γ-PGA from cane molasses.
Migrant agricultural workers’ deaths in Ontario from January 2020 to June 2021: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Caxaj Susana , Tran Maxwell , Mayell Stephanie , Tew Michelle , McLaughlin Janet , Rawal Shail , Vosko Leah F. , Cole Donald
Published: July 2022

Background

Nine migrant agricultural workers died in Ontario, Canada, between January 2020 and June 2021.

Methods

To better understand the factors that contributed to the deaths of these migrant agricultural workers, we used a modified qualitative descriptive approach. A research team of clinical and academic experts reviewed coroner files of the nine deceased workers and undertook an accompanying media scan. A minimum of two reviewers read each file using a standardized data extraction tool.

Results

We identified four domains of risk, each of which encompassed various factors that likely exacerbated the risk of poor health outcomes: (1) recruitment and travel risks; (2) missed steps and substandard conditions of healthcare monitoring, quarantine, and isolation; (3) barriers to accessing healthcare; and (4) missing information and broader issues of concern.

Conclusion

Migrant agricultural workers have been disproportionately harmed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Greater attention to the unique needs of this population is required to avoid further preventable deaths.
Gait biofeedback training in people with Parkinson’s disease: a pilot study
Authors: McMaster Kate , Cole Michael H. , Chalkley Daniel , Creaby Mark W.
Published: July 2022

Background

People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are at a high risk of falls, with ~ 60% experiencing a fall each year. Greater mediolateral head and pelvis motion during gait are known to increase the risk of falling in PD, however the ability to modify these aspects of gait has not been examined. Thus, this study aimed to examine whether mediolateral trunk, head and pelvis motion during walking could be successfully decreased in people with PD using real-time biofeedback.

Methods

Participants were provided with real-time biofeedback regarding their mediolateral trunk lean via a visual projection whilst walking along an 8-m indoor walkway. Using the feedback provided, they were asked to reduce the magnitude of their mediolateral trunk lean. Gait was recorded for four conditions (i) Baseline, (ii) Intervention, (iii) immediately Post-Intervention, and (iv) 1-week Follow-Up. Biomechanical variables associated with falls risk were compared between conditions, including normalised mediolateral motion, gait velocity and stride length.

Results

A reduction in mediolateral trunk lean, step length and gait velocity from Baseline to the Intervention and Post-intervention conditions was observed. Contrary to this, increased normalised ML pelvis and trunk motion was observed between the Baseline and Intervention conditions, but returned to Baseline levels in the Post-Intervention condition.

Conclusions

Results from the current study suggest that real-time visual biofeedback may be effective at modifying specific gait characteristics that are associated with falls in PD. Further research is required to better understand the influence of this intervention approach on falls incidence.

Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12620000994987. Registered 10 June 2020 - Retrospectively registered, https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=380324
Comparing output from two methods of participatory design for developing implementation strategies: traditional contextual inquiry vs. rapid crowd sourcing
Authors: Becker-Haimes Emily M. , Ramesh Brinda , Buck Jacqueline E. , Nuske Heather J. , Zentgraf Kelly A. , Stewart Rebecca E. , Buttenheim Alison , Mandell David S.
Published: July 2022

Background

Participatory design methods are a key component of designing tailored implementation strategies. These methods vary in the resources required to execute and analyze their outputs. No work to date has examined the extent to which the output obtained from different approaches to participatory design varies.

Methods

We concurrently used two separate participatory design methods: (1) field observations and qualitative interviews (i.e., traditional contextual inquiry) and (2) rapid crowd sourcing (an innovation tournament). Our goal was to generate and compare information to tailor implementation strategies to increase the use of evidence-based data collection practices among one-to-one aides working with children with autism. Each method was executed and analyzed by study team members blinded to the output of the other method. We estimated the personnel time and monetary costs associated with each method to further facilitate comparison.

Results

Observations and interviews generated nearly double the number of implementation strategies (n = 26) than did the innovation tournament (n = 14). When strategies were classified into implementation strategies from the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) taxonomy, there was considerable overlap in the content of identified strategies. However, strategies derived from observations and interviews were more specific than those from the innovation tournament. Five strategies (13%) reflected content unique to observations and interviews and 3 (8%) strategies were unique to the innovation tournament. Only observations and interviews identified implementation strategies related to adapting and tailoring to context; only the innovation tournament identified implementation strategies that used incentives. Observations and interviews required more than three times the personnel hours than the innovation tournament, but the innovation tournament was more costly overall due to the technological platform used.

Conclusions

There was substantial overlap in content derived from observations and interviews and the innovation tournament, although there was greater specificity in the findings from observations and interviews. However, the innovation tournament yielded unique information. To select the best participatory design approach to inform implementation strategy design for a particular context, researchers should carefully consider unique advantages of each method and weigh the resources available to invest in the process.
Predictive factors and outcomes for ibrutinib in relapsed/refractory marginal zone lymphoma: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Epperla Narendranath , Zhao Qiuhong , Chowdhury Sayan Mullick , Shea Lauren , Moyo Tamara K. , Reddy Nishitha , Sheets Julia , Weiner David M. , Geethakumari Praveen Ramakrishnan , Kandarpa Malathi , Bruno Ximena Jordan , Thomas Colin , Churnetski Michael C. , Hsu Andrew , Zurbriggen Luke , Tan Cherie , Lindsey Kathryn , Maakaron Joseph , Caimi Paolo F. , Torka Pallawi , Bello Celeste , Ayyappan Sabarish , Karmali Reem , Kim Seo-Hyun , Kress Anna , Kothari Shalin , Sawalha Yazeed , Christian Beth , David Kevin A. , Greenwell Irl Brian , Janakiram Murali , Kenkre Vaishalee P. , Olszewski Adam J. , Cohen Jonathon B. , Palmisiano Neil , Umyarova Elvira , Wilcox Ryan A. , Awan Farrukh T. , Alderuccio Juan Pablo , Barta Stefan K. , Grover Natalie S. , Ghosh Nilanjan , Bartlett Nancy L. , Herrera Alex F. , Shouse Geoffrey
Published: July 2022

Ibrutinib is effective in the treatment of relapsed/refractory (R/R) marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) with an overall response rate (ORR) of 48%. However, factors associated with response (or lack thereof) to ibrutinib in R/R MZL in clinical practice are largely unknown. To answer this question, we performed a multicenter (25 US centers) cohort study and divided the study population into three groups: “ibrutinib responders”—patients who achieved complete or partial response (CR/PR) to ibrutinib; “stable disease (SD)”; and “primary progressors (PP)”—patients with progression of disease as their best response to ibrutinib. One hundred and nineteen patients met the eligibility criteria with 58%/17% ORR/CR, 29% with SD, and 13% with PP. The median PFS and OS were 29 and 71.4 months, respectively, with no difference in PFS or OS based on the ibrutinib line of therapy or type of therapy before ibrutinib. Patients with complex cytogenetics had an inferior PFS (HR = 3.08, 95% CI 1.23–7.67, p = 0.02), while those with both complex cytogenetics (HR = 3.00, 95% CI 1.03–8.68, p = 0.04) and PP (HR = 13.94, 95% CI 5.17–37.62, p < 0.001) had inferior OS. Only primary refractory disease to first-line therapy predicted a higher probability of PP to ibrutinib (RR = 3.77, 95% CI 1.15–12.33, p = 0.03). In this largest study to date evaluating outcomes of R/R MZL treated with ibrutinib, we show that patients with primary refractory disease and those with PP on ibrutinib are very high-risk subsets and need to be prioritized for experimental therapies.
Noncoding RNAs as sensors of tumor microenvironmental stress
Authors: Lv Yue , Lv Yinghao , Wang Zhen , Yuan Kefei , Zeng Yong
Published: July 2022

The tumor microenvironment (TME) has been demonstrated to modulate the biological behavior of tumors intensively. Multiple stress conditions are widely observed in the TME of many cancer types, such as hypoxia, inflammation, and nutrient deprivation. Recently, accumulating evidence demonstrates that the expression levels of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are dramatically altered by TME stress, and the dysregulated ncRNAs can in turn regulate tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance. In this review, we elaborate on the signal transduction pathways or epigenetic pathways by which hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), inflammatory factors, and nutrient deprivation in TME regulate ncRNAs, and highlight the pivotal roles of TME stress-related ncRNAs in tumors. This helps to clarify the molecular regulatory networks between TME and ncRNAs, which may provide potential targets for cancer therapy.
A multi-centered trial investigating gestational treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid compared to metformin to reduce effects of diabetes mellitus (GUARD): a randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Lovell Holly , Mitchell Alice , Ovadia Caroline , Pitrelli Noelia , Briley Annette , Singh Claire , Marschall Hanns-Ulrich , Cruickshank Kennedy , Murphy Helen , Seed Paul , Williamson Catherine
Published: July 2022

Background

Each year in the UK, approximately 35,000 women develop gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The condition increases the risk of obstetric and neonatal complications for mother and child, including preeclampsia, preterm birth, and large for gestational age babies. Biochemical consequences include maternal hyperglycemia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and dyslipidemia. Metformin is the most commonly used firstline pharmacological treatment. However, there are concerns about its widespread use during pregnancy, due to its limited efficacy and potential safety concerns. Therefore, there is a need for additional therapies that improve both maternal–fetal glucose and lipid metabolism.

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is not currently used for treatment for GDM. However, it can improve glucose control in type 2 diabetes, and it improves fetal lipid profiles in gestational cholestasis. Consequentially, it is hypothesized that treatment with UDCA for women with GDM may improve both maternal metabolism and neonatal outcomes. The primary outcome of this trial is to assess the efficacy of UDCA compared with metformin to improve glucose levels in women with GDM.

Methods

The trial is a two-armed, open-label, multi-center, randomized controlled trial. Women are eligible if they have been diagnosed with GDM by an oral glucose tolerance test between 24 + 0 and 30 + 6 weeks’ gestation, and if they require pharmacological intervention. In total, 158 pregnant women will be recruited across seven NHS Trusts in England and Wales. Women who consent will be recruited and randomized to either metformin or UDCA, which will be taken daily until the birth of their baby. Maternal and neonatal blood samples will be taken to evaluate the impact of the treatments on maternal glucose control, and maternal and neonatal lipid metabolism. Maternal and fetal outcomes will be evaluated, and acceptability of UDCA compared with metformin will be assessed.

Discussion

This trial has the potential to identify a potential new treatment for women with GDM. If successful, a future large multi-center trial will be designed to investigate where decisions can be personalized to identify which women will respond more effectively to UDCA than alternatives to improve maternal and baby outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04407650.
Objectively measured preoperative physical activity and sedentary behaviour among Finnish patients scheduled for elective cardiac procedures: baseline results from randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vasankari Sini , Hartikainen Juha , Vasankari Ville , Anttila Vesa , Tokola Kari , Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Husu Pauliina , Sievänen Harri , Vasankari Tommi , Halonen Jari
Published: July 2022

Background

We investigated preoperative physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) in patients scheduled for elective cardiac procedures and compared them with population-based sample of Finnish adults.

Methods

Cardiac patients (n = 139) undergoing cardiac operations carried a triaxial accelerometer for seven days during the month before the procedure. Patients were categorised into four groups according to the procedure: percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary angiography (PCI-CA), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), aortic valve replacement (AVR) and mitral valve surgery (MVS). The raw accelerometer data was analyzed with dedicated algorithms to determine metabolic equivalents (METs, 3.5 mL/kg/min of oxygen consumption) of PA. The intensity of PA was divided into two categories: light (LPA, 1.5–2.9 METs) and moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA, ≥ 3.0 METs), while SB represented intensity < 1.5 MET without movements. SB and PA were described as daily means and accumulation from different bout lengths. Daily standing, steps and mean and peak MET-values were calculated. The results were compared between the patient groups and against the reference group from a population-based study FinFit2017.

Results

Cardiac patients had fewer daily steps than the FinFit population (p = 0.01), and less SB accumulating from < 20 min bouts (p = 0.002) but more from 20 to 60 min bouts (p = 0.002). Particularly, CABG group had less daily MVPA (p = 0.002) and MVPA accumulating from > 10 min bouts (p < 0.001) than the FinFit population.

Conclusions

We found large differences in PA and SB between the patient groups and the FitFit population, CABG group having the worst activity profile. Also, the variation within the patient groups was wide, which should be considered to individualise the rehabilitation programs postoperatively.

Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03470246). Registered 19 March 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03470246.
Fetal-onset malignant rhabdoid tumor: a case report
Authors: Kobayashi Ryota , Sumiya Wakako , Imanishi Toshiyuki , Kanno Chika , Kanno Masayuki , Unemoto Jun , Kawabata Ken , Kanno Masami , Shimizu Masaki
Published: July 2022

Background

A fetal-onset cervical mass may cause postnatal airway obstruction, and ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) to secure the airway while maintaining fetal-placental circulation may be life-saving. Malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRT) are highly aggressive tumors, and when they develop in utero, the prognosis is even worse, with almost no reports of survival beyond the neonatal period. Herein, we report a case of a primary cervical MRT and describe our treatment using EXIT for securing the airway, wherein the infant’s life was saved.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old Japanese woman with no relevant medical or surgical history was diagnosed with a fetal left cervical mass and polyhydramnios during the third trimester. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging indicated the possibility of postnatal airway obstruction, and delivery using EXIT was planned. The infant was delivered by a planned cesarean section at 39 weeks and 5 days gestation, and tracheostomy was performed using EXIT. Postnatal contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed suspected metastatic lesions in the subcutaneous tissue, lungs, and thymus, in addition to the mass in the left cervical region. MRT was diagnosed by biopsy of a subcutaneous mass in the left thigh, and chemotherapy with vincristine, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, and etoposide was initiated. The tumors regressed, and the infant was successfully weaned from artificial ventilation. After discharge from the hospital, she had a recurrent cervical mass and intracranial metastasis, and radiotherapy was initiated.

Conclusions

In our case, fetal diagnosis enabled advance planning of delivery using EXIT, thus saving the infant’s life. The use of chemotherapy for MRT, which has a poor prognosis, allowed tumor regression and enabled the infant to survive beyond the neonatal period.
Green production of a yellow laccase by Coriolopsis gallica for phenolic pollutants removal
Authors: Cen Qingjing , Wu Xiaodan , Cao Leipeng , Lu Yanjuan , Lu Xuan , Chen Jianwen , Fu Guiming , Liu Yuhuan , Ruan Roger
Published: July 2022

As a group of green biocatalysts, fungal laccases have aroused great interest in diverse biotechnological fields. Therein, yellow laccase has advantages over blue laccase in catalytic performance, but it is not common in the reported fungal laccases. Here, we report a yellow laccase from white-rot fungus Coriolopsis gallica NCULAC F1 about its production, purification, characterization, and application. Laccase production in the co-fermentation of pomelo peel and wheat bran reached the enzyme activity by 10,690 U/L after 5 days with a 13.58-time increase. After three steps of purification, laccase increased the specific activity from 30.78 to 188.79 U/mg protein with an activity recovery of 45.64%. The purified C. gallica laccase (CGLac) showed a molecular mass of about 57 kDa. CGLac had a yellow color and no absorption peaks at 610 nm and 330 nm, suggesting that it’s a yellow laccase. CGLac exhibited stability towards temperature (40–60 °C) and neutral pH (6.0–8.0). Fe3+ and Mn2+ strongly stimulated CGLac activity by 162.56% and 226.05%, respectively. CGLac remained high activities when exposed to organic reagents and putative inhibitors. Additionally, CGLac contributed to 90.78%, 93.26%, and 99.66% removal of phenol, p-chlorophenol and bisphenol A after 120 min, respectively. In conclusion, a green efficient production strategy was introduced for fungal laccase, and the obtained CGLac presented great enzymatic properties and catalytic potential in the removal of phenolic pollutants.
Siglec-15-induced autophagy promotes invasion and metastasis of human osteosarcoma cells by activating the epithelial–mesenchymal transition and Beclin-1/ATG14 pathway
Authors: Zheng Bingxin , Song Keliang , Sun Lingling , Gao Yang , Qu Yan , Ren Chongmin , Yan Peng , Chen Wenfang , Guo Wei , Zhou Chuanli , Yue Bin
Published: July 2022

Background

Pulmonary metastasis is the main cause of poor prognosis in osteosarcoma. Sialic acid-bound immunoglobulin lectin 15 (Siglec-15) has been demonstrated to be obviously correlated with pulmonary metastasis in osteosarcoma patients. However, the effect of Siglec-15 on autophagy in osteosarcoma remains unclear, while the role and mechanism of Siglec-15-related autophagy in lung metastasis also remain unknown.

Methods

The expression levels of Siglec-15 and Beclin-1 were detected in osteosarcoma tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC). The effect of Siglec-15 on metastasis was investigated using Transwell, wound healing and animal experiments with osteosarcoma cells. Corresponding proteins were confirmed using Western blotting when Siglec-15 or Beclin-1 was silenced or overexpressed. Changes in autophagy and the cytoskeleton were detected using immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Siglec-15 and Beclin-1 expression was evaluated both in lung metastases and in patients who presented with pulmonary metastasis of osteosarcoma. Immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that Siglec-15 interacts directly with Beclin-1, an important autophagic protein. Moreover, loss of Siglec-15 distinctly inhibited autophagy and reduced Beclin-1/ATG14 expression. The decreased invasion and migration caused by Siglec-15 silencing could be reversed by Beclin-1 overexpression. Additionally, autophagy can promote the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and affect cytoskeletal rearrangement, which was confirmed by overexpression or silencing of Beclin-1.

Conclusions

These findings confirmed the role of Siglec-15 in the regulation of autophagy and elaborated the relationship and mechanisms between autophagy and the metastasis of osteosarcoma cells.
Comparison of eating disorders and eating behaviors in adults with and without type 2 diabetes prior to bariatric surgery
Authors: Shakeri Zeinab , Mardali Farzaneh , Azizabadi Farahani Maedeh , Alemrajabi Mehdi , Mottaghi Azadeh
Published: July 2022

Background

Eating disorders (ED) are group of psychological disorders that significantly impair physical health and psychosocial function. ED consists wide range of morbidity such as loss of eating control, binge eating disorder (BED), night eating syndrome, and bulimia nervosa. Eating behavior is a wide range term that includes food choices, eating patterns, eating problems. In this study, we compared eating disorders and eating behaviors in adults with and without type 2 diabetes prior to bariatric surgery.

Methods

284 participants with class III obesity were included in the single center study. Each case (patients with type 2 diabetes) and control (patients without type 2 diabetes) groups consists 142 patients. Loss of eating control, BED and Bulimia nervosa, Night eating syndrome and eating behaviors and psychosocial factors were screened with standard questionnaires. SPSS version 20 was used for statistical analysis. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

There was a significant difference between participants with and without type 2 diabetes in case of BED (76.3% vs. 47.3%, P = 0.001). The logistic regression model has shown that participants without type 2 diabetes had lower odds of exhibiting BED (OR = 0.28, 95% CI 0.142–0.552). Among participants without type 2 diabetes, men had 65% high odds of BED (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.13–2.53) in compare with women. Participants with and without type 2 diabetes with high school degree (OR = 5.54, 95% CI 2.46–9.45, P = 0.0001 and OR = 6.52, 95% CI 3.15–10.56, respectively) and moderate depression level (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 0.98–3.95 and OR = 3.12, 95% CI 2.12–4.56, P = 0.0001) had higher odds of BED.

Conclusion

These results probably indicate that people with Class III obesity are more cautious about their diet for blood glucose control if they have type 2 diabetes. Future studies are recommended to follow up these patients after surgery to compare weight loss and blood sugar control in patients with and without type 2 diabetes.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a 6-week hybrid mindfulness-based intervention in reducing the stress among caregivers of patients with dementia during COVID-19 pandemic: protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kor Patrick Pui Kin , Li Meng Li , Kwok Denis Ka Shaw , Leung Angela Yee Man , Lai Danial Lok Lam , Liu Justina Yat Wah
Published: July 2022

Background

Mindfulness-based intervention (MBI), an emotion-focused approach, has been shown promising and sustainable effects on enhancing the well-being of caregivers of patients with dementia (PWD). However, the conventional MBI was quite demanding, had high rates of attrition and inconsistent long-term effect. The social distancing measures introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic also restricted face-to-face psychosocial intervention. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a 6-week hybrid MBI in caregivers of PWD over a 6-month follow up.

Methods

This is a single-blinded, parallel-group randomized controlled trial (RCT). Eligible participants from three local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) will be randomly divided into intervention groups and control groups in a ratio of 1:1. The participants in the intervention group will receive 6 weekly 90-min group-based sessions delivered through a face-to-face and online approach. The participants in the control group will receive brief education on dementia care with the same group size, duration, and frequency as the sessions in the intervention group. Immediately after the intervention and at the 6-month follow-up, caring stress and other outcomes will be assessed. Besides, a focus group interview will be conducted to identify the strengths, limitations, and therapeutic components of the intervention from their perspectives. For quantitative data, intention-to-treat analysis and Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) will be used. For qualitative data, content analysis will be used.

Discussion

This proposed hybrid model of MBI has several advantages, such as lower duration, longer follow-up period and easier access by family caregivers. Also, physiological indicators (e.g., heart rate viability and neuropsychiatric symptoms) will be measured in this study to show the body change after MBI. The quantitative and qualitative data of this research can also benefit the development of online or hybrid MBI for caregivers of PWD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these strengths, it does have practical challenges and limitations. However, this proposed intervention has the potential to benefit not only the participants, but also the researcher as well as public health providers.

Trial registration: NCT05242614. Registered on 2022-02-16, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05242614
Improving the effects of salt stress by β-carotene and gallic acid using increasing antioxidant activity and regulating ion uptake in Lepidium sativum L.
Authors: Babaei Marziyeh , Shabani Leila , Hashemi-Shahraki Shahla
Published: July 2022

Background

Plant growth and development are severely affected by soil salinity. This study was carried out to evaluate the interaction of foliar application of antioxidants (β-carotene and gallic acid) and salt stress onLepidium sativumseedlings.

Results

Our findings revealed that total dry and fresh weight were adversely affected by 25 mM NaCl salinity stress. Moreover, K+content decreased while Na+content increased significantly. The foliar application of β-carotene and gallic acid significantly mitigated the effects of salt stress by regulating ion uptake, reducing H2O2and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, as well as increasing enzymatic antioxidant activity, phenolic, glutathione, and chlorophyll content.

Conclusions

β-carotene- and gallic acid-treated plants had higher salt tolerance.
The combined application of nitrogen and biochar reduced microbial carbon limitation in irrigated soils of West African urban horticulture
Authors: Fritz Anne-Louise , Jannoura Ramia , Beuschel René , Steiner Christoph , Buerkert Andreas , Joergensen Rainer Georg
Published: July 2022

Background

Intensive wastewater irrigated urban horticulture in sub-Saharan West Africa receives high nutrient inputs, which lead to large gaseous and leaching losses. The addition of biochar to the usually sandy soils may reduce these losses and improve the habitat conditions for soil microorganisms. Two similar experiments focused on crop yields and nutrient balances have been carried out over a 2-year period in semi-arid Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, and in sub-humid Tamale, Ghana, representing to some extent different but typical locations in West Africa.

Methods

Biochar and N fertilization effects were measured on soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), fungal ergosterol, and functional diversity, estimated by multi-substrate-induced respiration. It was additionally possible to study the effects of clean water irrigation on the respective microbial properties in Tamale soil.

Results

Sole biochar addition did not affect any soil chemical or soil biological properties analyzed. In contrast, biochar application with N fertilization increased the mean respiratory response of the 11 substrates added by 23% in the Ouagadougou soil and by 13% in the Tamale soil. N fertilization decreased soil pH in both cities by 1.1 units. However, a pH-H2O of 4.7 led to reduced MBC and ergosterol contents at Tamale. Also, the Shannon index of the respiratory response was positively correlated with the soil pH. Clean water irrigation decreased the ergosterol content and increased the respiratory response to organic acids.

Conclusions

Biochar addition with N fertilization improved habitat conditions for soil microorganisms. An N fertilizer-induced decline in soil pH < 5 should be avoided, as it decreased MBC and microbial functional diversity.

Graphical Abstract
Analysis of a deep learning-based method for generation of SPECT projections based on a large Monte Carlo simulated dataset
Authors: Leube Julian , Gustafsson Johan , Lassmann Michael , Salas-Ramirez Maikol , Tran-Gia Johannes
Published: July 2022

Background

In recent years, a lot of effort has been put in the enhancement of medical imaging using artificial intelligence. However, limited patient data in combination with the unavailability of a ground truth often pose a challenge to a systematic validation of such methodologies. The goal of this work was to investigate a recently proposed method for an artificial intelligence-based generation of synthetic SPECT projections, for acceleration of the image acquisition process based on a large dataset of realistic SPECT simulations.

Methods

A database of 10,000 SPECT projection datasets of heterogeneous activity distributions of randomly placed random shapes was simulated for a clinical SPECT/CT system using the SIMIND Monte Carlo program. Synthetic projections at fixed angular increments from a set of input projections at evenly distributed angles were generated by different u-shaped convolutional neural networks (u-nets). These u-nets differed in noise realization used for the training data, number of input projections, projection angle increment, and number of training/validation datasets. Synthetic projections were generated for 500 test projection datasets for each u-net, and a quantitative analysis was performed using statistical hypothesis tests based on structural similarity index measure and normalized root-mean-squared error. Additional simulations with varying detector orbits were performed on a subset of the dataset to study the effect of the detector orbit on the performance of the methodology. For verification of the results, the u-nets were applied to Jaszczak and NEMA physical phantom data obtained on a clinical SPECT/CT system.

Results

No statistically significant differences were observed between u-nets trained with different noise realizations. In contrast, a statistically significant deterioration was found for training with a small subset (400 datasets) of the 10,000 simulated projection datasets in comparison with using a large subset (9500 datasets) for training. A good agreement between synthetic (i.e., u-net generated) and simulated projections before adding noise demonstrates a denoising effect. Finally, the physical phantom measurements show that our findings also apply for projections measured on a clinical SPECT/CT system.

Conclusion

Our study shows the large potential of u-nets for accelerating SPECT/CT imaging. In addition, our analysis numerically reveals a denoising effect when generating synthetic projections with a u-net. Clinically interesting, the methodology has proven robust against camera orbit deviations in a clinically realistic range. Lastly, we found that a small number of training samples (e.g., ~ 400 datasets) may not be sufficient for reliable generalization of the u-net.
A unified Internet-delivered exposure treatment for undifferentiated somatic symptom disorder: single-group prospective feasibility trial
Authors: Hybelius Jonna , Gustavsson Anton , af Winklerfelt Hammarberg Sandra , Toth-Pal Eva , Johansson Robert , Ljótsson Brjánn , Axelsson Erland
Published: July 2022

Background

Exposure-based psychological treatment appears to have beneficial effects for several patient groups that commonly report distress related to persistent somatic symptoms. Yet exposure-based treatment is rarely offered in routine care. This may be because existing treatment protocols have been developed for specific symptom clusters or specific unwanted responses to somatic symptoms, and many clinics do not have the resources to offer all these specialised treatments in parallel. In preparation for a randomised controlled trial, we investigated the feasibility of a new and unified Internet-delivered exposure treatment (OSF.io: cnbwj) for somatic symptom disorder regardless of somatic symptom domain (e.g. cardiopulmonary, fatigue, gastrointestinal, pain), combination of unwanted emotions (e.g. anger, anxiety, fear, shame) and whether somatic symptoms are medically explained or not. We hypothesised that a wide spectrum of subgroups would show interest, that the treatment would be rated as credible, that adherence would be adequate, that the measurement strategy would be acceptable and that there would be no serious adverse events.

Methods

Single-group prospective cohort study where 33 self-referred adults with undifferentiated DSM-5 somatic symptom disorder took part in 8 weeks of unified Internet-delivered exposure treatment delivered via a web platform hosted by a medical university. Self-report questionnaires were administered online before treatment, each week during treatment, post treatment and 3 months after treatment.

Results

Participants reported a broad spectrum of symptoms. The Credibility/Expectancy mean score was 34.5 (SD = 7.0, range: 18–47). Participants completed 91% (150/165) of all modules and 97% of the participants (32/33) completed at least two exposure exercises. The average participant rated the adequacy of the rationale as 8.4 (SD = 1.5) on a scale from 0 to 10. The post-treatment assessment was completed by 97% (32/33), and 84% (27/32) rated the measurement strategy as acceptable. The Client Satisfaction Questionnaire mean score was 25.3 (SD = 4.7, range: 17–32) and no serious adverse events were reported. Reductions in subjective somatic symptom burden (the Patient Health Questionnaire 15; d = 0.90) and symptom preoccupation (the somatic symptom disorder 12; d = 1.17) were large and sustained.

Conclusions

Delivering a unified Internet-delivered exposure-based treatment protocol for individuals with undifferentiated somatic symptom disorder appears to be feasible.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04511286. Registered on August 13, 2020.
Impediments to localization agenda: humanitarian space in the Rohingya response in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Abdul Kadir , Kontinen Tiina
Published: July 2022

The article spotlights the impediments of the localization agenda in the Rohingya response in Bangladesh through the notion of humanitarian space. The Rohingyas rely entirely on material aid and humanitarian services in the camps, mainly stemming from international actors committed to the localization agenda, which, however, has not been effectively implemented. Drawing on the definition of humanitarian space as an arena, we investigate the main negotiations within humanitarian space in the Rohingya response and how they impede the realization of the localization agenda. We conducted secondary data analysis on reports published by organizations involved and validated the findings with ten telephone interviews with organizations in Bangladesh. We identified three main negotiations. First, negotiation on the nature of the partnership between local and international humanitarian actors, including the debates on the definition of “local”; second, negotiation concerning the characteristics and appreciation of local capacity; and third, the negotiation related to constraints within the operating environment for humanitarian actors in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. We conclude that the lens of humanitarian space is necessary for further understanding the dynamics impeding localization in the Rohingya response in particular and humanitarian action in general.
Experience with radiopharmacy information system
Authors: Perales Jesús Luis Gómez
Published: July 2022

Background

The efficient management of hospital radiopharmacy is very important for a good workflow in nuclear medicine and essential to ensure the correct traceability of the radiopharmaceuticals administered to patients. In the hospital radiopharmacy of our nuclear medicine department, it was developed and implemented a radiopharmacy information system (Radiolab).

Results

From its implementation, important additional functionalities have been added to this software application, according to our requirements and according as well to some of the specific requirements proposed in a recently published consensual tool for validating radiopharmacy software. After more than ten years from the implementation of this software application, it has been analysed its contribution to our hospital radiopharmacy and nuclear medicine department.

Conclusions

As a result, this radiopharmacy information system provides comprehensive management of our hospital radiopharmacy in an efficient way, and reliable traceability of every dose of radiopharmaceutical administered in our nuclear medicine department.
Effect of welding parameters on the mechanical and metallurgical properties of armor steel weldment
Authors: Morsy M. A. , Abdel Aziz Sabry M. , Abdelwahed Khaled , Abdelwahab Sabreen A.
Published: July 2022

The effect of welding parameters on the mechanical and metallurgical properties of armor steel weldment was studied using gas tungsten arc welding process with two filler wires: carbon steel and austenitic stainless-steel filler wires (AWS A5.18 ER 70S-6 and AWS A5.9 ER 307, respectively). The joint configurations were mainly single V and single bevel grooves. Using both AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 carbon steel filler wire and AWS A5.9 ER307, austenitic filler wire for the two joints passed the required tensile strength by the military standard. The joints successfully regained the base metal hardness at a distance of less than 15 mm. The ultimate tensile strength of the joints welded in a single bevel groove is 906 MPa which is higher than the joints welded using a single V groove is 865 MPa. This could be attributed to the increase in dilution percentage with the single bevel joints. Both single V joint and single bevel joints passed the required Charpy V-notch impact test whether using both carbon and stainless-steel wires. The effect of heat input and cooling rate on the mechanical and microstructure of welded joints was studied. The reduction of heat input caused a narrow HAZ with a small reduction in its hardness values with much reduction in the width of softening microstructure zone. SEM observations show that the base metal has a martensitic structure, but the weld metal microstructures depend on the filler: carbon steel or austenitic steel types. Using a single bevel groove with an austenitic steel filler metal, the weld metal shows a martensitic/austenitic microstructure by SEM observation, and this was verified by the Schaeffler diagram which showed a high dilution percentage (about 35% dilution). This resulted in a significant increase in joint strength and a higher weld metal impact resistance.