bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nozzle tip damage in three generations of intraocular lens injector models: an experimental laboratory study
Authors: Zhang Lu , Schickhardt Sonja , Merz Patrick , Auffarth Gerd
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To assess the nozzle tip damage of IOL injectors in three generations from the same manufacturer using the self-developed system—the Heidelberg Score for IOL Injector Damage.

Setting

David J Apple Center for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany

Design

Experimental laboratory study

Methods

The nozzle tip damage of three injector models (Emerald, iTec, and Simplicity) was determined using the Heidelberg score for IOL injector damage. Damage to the nozzle tip was examined under a microscope and graded as follows: no damage (score 0), slight scratches (1), deep scratches (2), extensions (3), cracks (4) and bursts (5). The total scores for each injector system were the sum of scores for all injectors in this model. Total scores of the three injector systems were evaluated and compared. The nozzle tip parameters (diameters, tip angles) were also measured in each group.

Results

The Emerald system achieved the highest total scores, while the other two systems achieved similar total scores. There was no statistically significant difference in the total scores between the study groups (P > 0.05). The outer cross-sectional diameters were 2.10 and 2.10 mm for Emerald, 1.80 and 1.78 mm for iTec, and 1.78 and 1.80 mm for Simplicity. The thickness of the nozzle tips was 0.13 mm (Emerald), 0.17 mm (iTec) and 0.17 mm (Simplicity). The tip angle for three injector models was 35° (Emerald), 45° (iTec), and 45° (Simplicity).

Conclusions

Although different injector models exhibited varying degrees of damage to the nozzle tip, all injector models generally showed relatively good results. Newer generations of IOL injector models tend to perform better in terms of nozzle tip damage after IOL implantation.
Did the increase in sitting time due to COVID-19 lead to obesity in adolescents?
Authors: Kim Dahyun , Kim Woorim , Choi Mingee , Shin Jaeyong
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Since adolescent with obesity is closely linked with the incidence of cardiovascular disease, it is important to identify the factors that increase the prevalence of adolescent with obesity and prevent it early. This study aimed to examine which of the demographic and lifestyle factors including sitting hours per week for purposes other than study had the greatest influence on Korean adolescents with obesity during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods

We used the Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey (KYRBWS) data. The primary outcome was the relationship between sitting hours and obesity during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to examine which of the demographic and lifestyle factors including sitting hours per week for purposes other than study had the greatest influence on Korean adolescents’ obesity status.

Results

The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher during the COVID-19 than before the COVID-19 (OR, 1.268, CI:1.232–1.305). There was a significant increase in the OR for sitting hours per week for purposes other than study (OR, 1.021, 95% CI, 1.019–1.024). Compared to low household income, the OR decreased for middle (OR = 0.798, 95% CI:0.77, 0.826) and high-income household students (OR, 0.833, 95% CI: 0.803–0.865).

Discussion/Conclusion

The results of this study confirmed the relationship between sit-ting hours and obesity in adolescents during the pandemic. To prevent adolescent with obesity, further studies are needed to focus on the importance of promoting health policy in adolescents to avoid the continuous rising of its prevalence and needed to understand whether the increase in obesity rates during the pandemic is a temporary trend.
Effectiveness of different antithrombotic agents in combination with tranexamic acid for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and blood management after total knee replacement: a prospective randomized study
Authors: Zhou Li-Bo , Wang Chao-Chao , Zhang Lan-Tao , Wu Tao , Zhang Guo-Qiu
Published: January 2023

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely applied in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to significantly reduce perioperative blood loss and improve knee function recovery in patients after surgery. The choice of antithrombotic agents for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention after TKA is controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of different antithrombotic agents on patients after primary unilateral TKA in the context of applied TXA.

Methods

A total of 180 patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA from October 2020 to December 2021 were included in this study. All patients were given an intraoperative drip of 60 mg/kg TXA. Thereafter, patients were divided into three groups (n = 60 each). Baseline data were comparable among the three groups. The average follow-up time was 3.02 ± 0.09 months. Group 1 enrolled patients receiving oral rivaroxaban (RA) at 10 mg, Group 2 included patients who received subcutaneous Dalteparin sodium at 2500 IU, while Group 3 included patients taking oral aspirin (ASA) at 100 mg. Patients in all the three groups received treatment once a day for 30 days at 12 h postoperatively. The primary outcomes in this study were post-treatment drainage volume and thrombotic complication rate. The secondary outcomes included hematologic parameters, transfusion rate, intraoperative blood loss, total blood loss (TBL), and bleeding complication rate.

Results

The average drainage volume after treatment was significantly lower in Group 3 than in Group 1 and Group 2 (205.2 ± 69.0 vs 243.4 ± 72.5 vs 295.4 ± 72.5 ml,P < 0.001), and there was a significant difference between Group 1 and Group 2 (243.4 ± 72.5 mL vs 295.4 ± 72.5 mL,P < 0.001). The blood transfusion rate of Group 2 dramatically increased compared with Group 1 and Group 3 (20.0% vs 6.7% vs 5.0%,P = 0.01). The bleeding complication rate in Group 1 apparently increased relative to Group 2 and Group 3 (26.7% vs 10.0% vs 8.3%,P = 0.008). Besides, there was no significant difference in the thrombotic complication rate among the three groups.

Conclusion

Under the background of TXA application, ASA, RA, and Dalteparin sodium were all effective on preventing VTE after TKA. In addition, ASA effectively reduced post-treatment Hemoglobin (Hb) loss, drainage volume, TBL, transfusion rate, and bleeding complications compared with RA and Dalteparin sodium.

Trial registration

The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200060169). Date of Registration: 21/05/2022.
Applications, benefits and challenges of telehealth in India during COVID-19 pandemic and beyond: a systematic review
Authors: Rajkumar Eslavath , Gopi Aswathy , Joshi Aditi , Thomas Aleena Elizabeth , Arunima N. M. , Ramya Gosetty Sri , Kulkarni Prachi , Rahul P. , George Allen Joshua , Romate John , Abraham John
Published: January 2023

Background

India, the seventh-largest country in the world and the second-most populated faces enormous challenges when it comes to healthcare. The country’s healthcare system was close to collapse due to the detrimental effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth, which enables treating patients remotely, played a critical role during these challenging times. This systematic review investigates in detail the role of telehealth during COVID-19 and its application beyond the pandemic.

Methods

Database searches on PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science were carried out for studies published on telehealth, and articles were included if they focused on any audio or video telehealth consultation during the pandemic in India. Findings were synthesised into three main themes: applications, benefits and challenges of telehealth services. Methodological quality was assessed using JBI critical appraisal tools.

Results

The initial search on databases yielded 1143 articles. Of those, 19 met the eligibility criteria. Findings highlight the effective utilisation of telehealth across multiple medical specialities. Although insufficient technological infrastructure and other barriers due to the virtual consultation challenge the successful implementation of telehealth in India, it has the potential to bridge the rural-urban healthcare divide with cost-effective and easily accessible services.

Conclusion

High patient/provider satisfaction underscores the need to integrate telehealth into routine healthcare practices in the country. However, the review urges the government and healthcare practitioners to address the telehealth challenges with prime importance to ensure quality healthcare throughout the nation even after the pandemic.
First-in-human phase I dose-escalation and dose-expansion trial of the selective MEK inhibitor HL-085 in patients with advanced melanoma harboring NRAS mutations
Authors: Wang Xuan , Luo Zhiguo , Chen Jing , Chen Yu , Ji Dongmei , Fan Li , Chen Ling , Zhao Qian , Hu Pei , Sun Peng , Jia Zhongwei , Guo Jun , Si Lu
Published: January 2023

Background

HL-085 is a selective, orally administered MEK1/2 inhibitor. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of HL-085 in patients with advanced melanoma harboring NRAS mutations.

Methods

This was a multicenter phase 1 study. HL-085 was administered twice daily in a standard 3 + 3 dose-escalation design (10 dose cohorts; 0.5–18 mg twice daily), followed by dose expansion at the recommended phase II dose (RP2D). The primary endpoints included tolerability, dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and RP2D.

Results

Between September 13, 2017, and January 18, 2021, 42 patients were enrolled (dose escalation phase: n = 30; dose expansion phase: n = 12). No DLT was reported during dose escalation and MTD was not reached with HL-085 doses up to 18 mg twice daily. The RP2D was 12 mg twice daily. The most common all-grade drug-related adverse events (AEs) across all dose levels were rash (61.9%), increased creatine phosphokinase (CK, 59.5%), face edema (50.0%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (47.6%), peripheral edema (40.5%), diarrhea (33.3%), alanine aminotransferase (33.3%), and paronychia (19.0%), most of which were grade 1 and 2. Most frequency of grade ≥ 3 AEs were CK (14.2%), asthenia (7.1%), peripheral edema (4.8%), and acneiform dermatitis (4.8%). In the cohort of 12 mg twice daily dose (15 patients), confirmed objective response rate was 26.7%; disease control rate was 86.7%; median duration of response was 2.9 months; median progression-free survival was 3.6 months.

Conclusions

The HL-085 showed acceptable tolerability and substantial clinical activity in patients with advanced melanoma harboring NRAS mutations.

Trial registration

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT03973151.
In vitro assessment of PEG-6000 coated-ZnO nanoparticles: modulating action to the resisted antibiotic activity against APEC
Authors: Badry Aml , Ibrahim Awad Abd El Hafez , Said Mohamed I. , Nasr Asmaa A. E. , Mohamed Moemen A. , Hassan Ahmed K. , Safwat Marwa M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) are considered a growing health problem to both poultry and the public, particularly due to its multi-drug resistance. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are a promising multi-benefit candidate. This study focused on boosting the antimicrobial effect of the chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs using Polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000) and evaluating their potential to recover the sensitivity of Florfenicol and Streptomycin-resistant APEC to these drugs in a concentration range of 0.1–0.4 mg/mL. Four samples of ZnO-NPs were formulated and tested microbiologically.

Results

The physicochemical characterization showed well-crystallized spherical in situ synthesized ZnO-NPs using PEG-6000 (surfactant) and ethanol (co-surfactant) of ∼19–67 nm particle size after coating with PEG-6000 molecules. These ZnO-NPs demonstrated a strong concentration-dependent antibacterial effect against multidrug-resistant APEC strains, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.1 mg/mL, Combining PEG-6000 coated in situ synthesized ZnO-NPs and Florfenicol induced 60% high sensitivity (30 mm inhibitory-zone), 30% intermediate sensitivity, and 10% resistance against APEC strains. The combination with Streptomycin revealed 50% high sensitivity, 30% intermediate sensitivity, and 20% resistance with a 20 mm maximum zone of inhibition using agar well diffusion test.

Conclusion

In situ preparation of ZnO-NPs using PEG-6000 and ethanol followed by coating with PEG-6000 enhanced its antibacterial activity in minimum inhibitory concentration and regained the efficacy of Florfenicol and Streptomycin against APEC, referring to a non-antibiotic antimicrobial alternative and an effective combination regimen against multidrug-resistant APEC E. coli in veterinary medicine.
Intimate communications within the tumor microenvironment: stromal factors function as an orchestra
Authors: Cheng Bing , Yu Qiang , Wang Wenyu
Published: January 2023

Extensive studies of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the last decade have reformed the view of cancer as a tumor cell-centric disease. The tumor microenvironment, especially termed the "seed and soil" theory, has emerged as the key determinant in cancer development and therapeutic resistance. The TME mainly consists of tumor cells, stromal cells such as fibroblasts, immune cells, and other noncellular components. Within the TME, intimate communications among these components largely determine the fate of the tumor. The pivotal roles of the stroma, especially cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most common component within the TME, have been revealed in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, therapeutic response, and tumor immunity. A better understanding of the function of the TME sheds light on tumor therapy. In this review, we summarize the emerging understanding of stromal factors, especially CAFs, in cancer progression, drug resistance, and tumor immunity with an emphasis on their functions in epigenetic regulation. Moreover, the importance of epigenetic regulation in reshaping the TME and the basic biological principles underpinning the synergy between epigenetic therapy and immunotherapy will be further discussed.
Cochlear sparing in LINAC-based radiosurgery for vestibular schwannoma: a dosimetric comparison of dynamic conformal arc, IMRT and VMAT treatment plans
Authors: Khong Jeremy , Govindaraj Ramkumar , Ramm Daniel , Edwards Suzanne , Roos Daniel
Published: January 2023

Background

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the preferred treatment for vestibular schwannoma (VS) in patients with preserved hearing and tumour diameter < 3 cm. Emerging evidence suggests restricting cochlear dose could preserve hearing. This retrospective replanning study aims to compare dynamic conformal arc therapy (DCAT), intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans for superiority of cochlear dose sparing without compromising tumour coverage.

Methods

Eligibility criteria included sporadic VS, serviceable hearing and availability of CT and MRI for planning. The original gross tumour volume and brainstem OAR volume were retained; the cochlea was newly contoured on the planning CT scan (bone window). Each case was replanned using the three above techniques, prescribing 12 Gy to the 80% isodose line. No dose constraint was applied to the cochlea.

Results

Eighteen patients were replanned. Mean tumour volume was 2.25 cc. Tumour coverage and tumour mean dose (DCAT: 14.2, IMRT: 14.6, VMAT: 14.5 Gy) were comparable. Paddick and RTOG conformity indices were better for DCAT (0.66 and 1.6) and VMAT (0.69 and 1.5) compared to IMRT (0.56 and 1.9). DCAT had superior gradient index (3.0) compared to VMAT (3.4) and IMRT (3.4). VMAT delivered the lowest mean brainstem maximum dose (8.3 Gy) and decreased the mean cochlear dose (3.4 Gy) by 2.3 and 2.1 Gy, and the mean cochlear maximum dose (3.6 Gy) by 2.4 and 2.5 Gy relative to DCAT and IMRT, respectively.

Conclusion

LINAC-based SRS treatment using VMAT can achieve better cochlear dose sparing than DCAT or IMRT while maintaining tumour coverage.
The effectiveness of psychoeducation and problem-solving on depression and treatment adherence in adolescents living with HIV in Botswana: an exploratory clinical trial
Authors: Olashore Anthony A. , Paruk Saeeda , Ogunwale Adegboyega , Ita Mkpang , Tomita Andrew , Chiliza Bonginkosi
Published: January 2023

Background

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of psychological interventions (PI): psychoeducation, problem-solving, and rehearsal strategies on depression and adherence in HIV-infected adolescents in Botswana.

Methods

Fifty adolescents living with HIV were randomized into control (n = 25) and intervention groups (n = 25), the latter being exposed to five weeks of PI sessions. The PHQ-9 and visual analog scale (VAS) were used to measure the outcomes: depression and adherence at pre-intervention, 5- and 24 weeks post-intervention.

Results

The participants’ mean age (SD) was 17.38 years (1.1), the two groups being similar in socio-demographic variables: gender (χ2 = 2.22; p = 0.135) and age (U = 285, z =  − 0.55, p = 0.579). The intervention group scored significantly lower on depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 [F (1,50) = 12.0, p = 0.001, ƞp2 = 0.20]) and higher on adherence score (VAS [F (1,50) = 13.5, p = 0.001, ƞp2 = 0.22]) than the control group after 5 weeks. The post-hoc analysis showed that the significant improvements in depressive symptoms (z =  − 4.03, p < 0.01, r [effect size] = 0.88) and adherence (z =  − 4.05, p < 0.01, r = 0.88) at post-test in the intervention group were maintained at 24 weeks. This project was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05482217).

Conclusion

The 5-week PI showed promising effectiveness in addressing depression and adherence in adolescents living with HIV in Botswana.
Common Clinical Trial Amendments, why they are submitted and how they can be avoided: a mixed methods study on NHS UK Sponsored Research (Amendments Assemble)
Authors: Joshi Shivam
Published: January 2023

Background

Amendments are changes made to a clinical trial after it has received regulatory approval. An amendment can take a significant amount of time and resources to develop, review and implement at participating sites. This can affect the efficient delivery of clinical trials and potentially contribute to research waste. This study aimed to establish what the most common amendments are, why they are submitted, and what, if anything, can be done to avoid them.

Methods

An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was employed. The first strand involved a content analysis on a sample of amendments, submitted in trials sponsored by a University Hospital NHS Trust between September 2009 and March 2020, to establish the most common changes and reasons for amendments. The second strand involved thematically analysing semi-structured interviews with trial stakeholders to explore their views on the reasons underpinning the submission of amendments, and the potential for efficiencies that could prevent avoidable amendments.

Results

Two hundred forty-two approved amendments were examined from 53 clinical research studies. The ‘Addition of sites’ was the most common amendment change, and the most common reason for amendments was ‘To achieve the trial’s recruitment target’. The root causes for avoidable amendments identified by the 11 interviewees included the following: ‘Rushing the initial application knowing an amendment will be needed later’, ‘Not involving all the right people to input’ at the start of the trial, and ‘Realising it’s not feasible in practice when delivering the trial’. Missing regulatory checks following an onerous and error-prone application process were also identified as the cause of some amendments.

Conclusions

Trials need to be critically reviewed by various stakeholders and have sufficient time allocated to planning and feasibility assessments to avoid some amendments. This may improve clinical trial efficiency, to benefit the trial participants, researchers, funders, sponsors, and regulatory bodies, and potentially bring new treatments to patients faster.
Methylation in MAD1L1 is associated with the severity of suicide attempt and phenotypes of depression
Authors: Sokolov Aleksandr V. , Manu Diana-Maria , Nordberg Didi O. T. , Boström Adrian D. E. , Jokinen Jussi , Schiöth Helgi B.
Published: January 2023

Depression is a multifactorial disorder representing a significant public health burden. Previous studies have linked multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms with depressive phenotypes and suicidal behavior. MAD1L1 is a mitosis metaphase checkpoint protein that has been linked to depression in GWAS. Using a longitudinal EWAS approach in an adolescent cohort at two time points (n = 216 andn = 154), we identified differentially methylated sites that were associated with depression-related genetic variants in MAD1L1. Three methylation loci (cg02825527, cg18302629, and cg19624444) were consistently hypomethylated in the minor allele carriers, being cross-dependent on several SNPs. We further investigated whether DNA methylation at these CpGs is associated with depressive psychiatric phenotypes in independent cohorts. The first site (cg02825527) was hypomethylated in blood (exp(β) = 84.521,pvalue ~ 0.003) in participants with severe suicide attempts (n = 88). The same locus showed increased methylation in glial cells (exp(β) = 0.041,pvalue ~ 0.004) in the validation cohort, involving 29 depressed patients and 29 controls, and showed a trend for association with suicide (n = 40,pvalue ~ 0.089) and trend for association with depression treatment (n = 377,pvalue ~ 0.075). The second CpG (cg18302629) was significantly hypomethylated in depressed participants (exp(β) = 56.374,pvalue ~ 0.023) in glial cells, but did not show associations in the discovery cohorts. The last methylation site (cg19624444) was hypomethylated in the whole blood of severe suicide attempters; however, this association was at the borderline for statistical significance (pvalue ~ 0.061). This locus, however, showed a strong association with depression treatment in the validation cohort (exp(β) = 2.237,pvalue ~ 0.003) with 377 participants. The direction of associations between psychiatric phenotypes appeared to be different in the whole blood in comparison with brain samples for cg02825527 and cg19624444. The association analysis between methylation at cg18302629 and cg19624444 and MAD1L1 transcript levels in CD14+cells shows a potential link between methylation at these CpGs and MAD1L1 expression. This study suggests evidence that methylation atMAD1L1is important for psychiatric health as supported by several independent cohorts.
Optimization of bioethanol production from sugarcane molasses by the response surface methodology using Meyerozyma caribbica isolate MJTm3
Authors: Hawaz Estifanos , Tafesse Mesfin , Tesfaye Anteneh , Kiros Solomon , Beyene Dereje , Kebede Gessesse , Boekhout Teun , Groenwald Marizeth , Theelen Bart , Degefe Ayantu , Degu Sisay , Admasu Alene , Hunde Biru , Muleta Diriba
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Yeast strains tolerant to a wide range of stress conditions are needed for the production of bioethanol from substrates rich in sugar. In our earlier research findings, Meyerozyma caribbica isolate MJTm3 (OM329077) demonstrated remarkable stress tolerance and fermentative activity. The present study aimed to optimize six fermentation parameters to generate conducive fermentation conditions for ethanol production by M. caribbica isolate MJTm3.

Method

The response surface method (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) was employed to optimize process conditions for higher bioethanol yield. The optimization process was carried out based on six independent parameters, namely temperature (25–35 °C), pH (5.5–6.5), inoculum size (10–20% (v/v)), molasses concentration (25–35 (w/v)), mixing rate (110–150 rpm), and incubation period (48–72-h). Analysis of ethanol concentration was done by HPLC equipped with a UV detector.

Result

The optimal conditions of the parameters resulting in a maximum predicted ethanol yield were as follows: pH 5.5, an inoculum size of 20%, a molasses concentration of 25 °Bx, a temperature of 30 °C, an incubation period of 72-h, and a mixing rate of 160 revolutions per minute (rpm). Using the above optimum conditions, the model predicted a bioethanol yield of 79%, 92% of the theoretical yield, a bioethanol concentration of 49 g L−1, and a productivity of 0.68 g L−1 h−1. A batch fermentation experiment was carried out to validate the predicted values and resulted in a bioethanol yield of 86%, 95% of theoretical yield, a bioethanol concentration of 56 g L−1, and productivity of 0.78 g L−1 h−1. On the other hand, the surface plot analysis revealed that the synergistic effect of the molasses concentration and the mixing rate were vital to achieving the highest bioethanol yield. These values suggested that the RSM with CCD was an effective method in producing the highest possible output of bioethanol from molasses in actual operation.

Conclusion

The study confirmed the potential of using M. caribbica isolate MJTm3 for bioethanol production from sugarcane molasses under the abovementioned optimal fermentation conditions.
Self-Efficacy to Manage Chronic Disease (SEMCD) scale: translation and evaluation of measurement properties for a swedish version
Authors: Melin Jeanette , Fors Andreas , Jakobsson Sofie , Krabbe David , Björkman Ida
Published: January 2023

Background

Reinforcing self-efficacy in patients is important in person-centered care; therefore, reliable and valid measures of a person’s self-efficacy is of clinical relevance. A questionnaire suitable for self-efficacy and patient engagement that is not limited to a particular condition is the Self-efficacy to Manage Chronic Disease (SEMCD). This study aims to evaluate the measurement properties of a Swedish translation of the SEMCD with a Rasch analysis.

Methods

The translation and cultural adaptation of the SEMCD was performed according to the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) recommendations. Self-reported data was collected from two cohorts: patients with pituitary tumors (n = 86) and patients on sick leave due to common mental disorders (n = 209). Measurement properties were evaluated with a Rasch analysis in RUMM2030.

Results

The original six-item SEMCD did not fit to a unidimensional scale. Two items, item 5 and item 6, deviated both statistically and conceptually and were removed. A four-item solution, the SEMCD-4 with collapsed thresholds for mid-range response options, showed good targeting and unidimensionality, no item misfit, and a reliability of 0.83.

Conclusion

In a Swedish context with a mix of patients with pituitary tumors or common mental disorders, SEMCD-4 showed satisfactory measurement properties. Thus, SEMCD-4 could be used to identify patient self-efficacy in long-term illnesses. This knowledge about patient self-efficacy may be of importance to tailor person-centered support based on each patient´s resources, needs and goals.
Large-diameter trees and deadwood correspond with belowground ectomycorrhizal fungal richness
Authors: Birch Joseph D. , Lutz James A. , Struckman Soren , Miesel Jessica R. , Karst Justine
Published: January 2023

Background

Large-diameter trees have an outsized influence on aboveground forest dynamics, composition, and structure. Although their influence on aboveground processes is well studied, their role in shaping belowground fungal communities is largely unknown. We sought to test if (i) fungal community spatial structure matched aboveground forest structure; (ii) fungal functional guilds exhibited differential associations to aboveground trees, snags, and deadwood; and (iii) that large-diameter trees and snags have a larger influence on fungal community richness than smaller-diameter trees. We used MiSeq sequencing of fungal communities collected from soils in a spatially intensive survey in a portion of Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah, USA. We used random forest models to explore the spatial structure of fungal communities as they relate to explicitly mapped trees and deadwood distributed across 1.15 ha of a 15.32-ha mapped subalpine forest.

Results

We found 6,177 fungal amplicon sequence variants across 117 sequenced samples. Tree diameter, deadwood presence, and tree species identity explained more than twice as much variation (38.7% vs. 10.4%) for ectomycorrhizal composition and diversity than for the total or saprotrophic fungal communities. Species identity and distance to the nearest large-diameter tree (≥ 40.2 cm) were better predictors of fungal richness than were the identity and distance to the nearest tree. Soil nutrients, topography, and tree species differentially influenced the composition and diversity of each fungal guild. Locally rare tree species had an outsized influence on fungal community richness.

Conclusions

These results highlight that fungal guilds are differentially associated with the location, size, and species of aboveground trees. Large-diameter trees are implicated as drivers of belowground fungal diversity, particularly for ectomycorrhizal fungi.
Night eating syndrome is associated with mental health issues among palestinian undergraduate students-cross sectional study
Authors: Hamdan May , Badrasawi Manal , Zidan Souzan , Thawabteh Ruba , Mohtaseb Raya , Arqoub Khozama Abu
Published: January 2023

Background

University students are exposed to several factors associated with Night Eating Syndrome NES, which is distinguished by nocturnal consumption and/or evening hyperphagia. The main purpose of the current study is to examine the state of NES, and to explore its relationship with selected factors (e.g. sociodemographic factors, lifestyle habits, body mass index “BMI”, and mental health) among a sample of undergraduates.

Methods

A cross-section design was done among undergraduates recruited from three universities in the southern part of Palestine. Students completed a self-administrated questionnaire including demographic information, lifestyle habits, medical profile, and the Arabic version of Night Eating Questionnaire (NEQ). Mental health status was also assessed using the Arabic version of the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Cronbach alpha was used to check the reliability of the Arabic version of NEQ. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate approach.

Results

A total of 475 participants were included in the study, 197 (47%) males, 253(54%) females. Mean age was 19.8 ± 1.4 years, ranged from 18 to 25 years old. It is found that 141 university students (29.7%) screened positive for NES. According to univariate analysis, NES was significantly related to gender (p = 0.023), major (p = 0.005), personal monthly income (p = 0.007), source of funding (p = 0.005), and mental health (p < 0.005). Besides, the results of binary logistic regression revealed that having mental health problems (Exp (B) = 4.18; 95% CI = 2.50–6.98;p = 0.000), males (Exp (B) = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.17–3.39;p = 0.014), and those who study expenses was not covered either by scholarship or parents (Exp (B) = 2.75; 95% CI = 1.29–5.8;p = 0.08) were significantly associated with NES.

Conclusion

It is found that NES is common among Palestinian university students. In this study, NES was significantly more prevalent among males, and those who were studying scientific majors, having a personal income between 500 and 1000 new Israeli shekel per month, and having mental problems, and those whose studies were funded by neither by a scholarship nor by their parents.
MiR-124-3p impedes the metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer via extracellular exosome transport and intracellular PI3K/AKT signaling
Authors: Zhu Qing , Zhang Yixuan , Li Mo , Zhang Ying , Zhang Huan , Chen Jiayi , Liu Zhaoyang , Yuan Peng , Yang Zhaogang , Wang Xiaobing
Published: January 2023

Background

Metastasis is a significant factor that affects the survival of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nevertheless, the molecular regulatory mechanism underlying the metastasis is currently not fully understood. This study aims to identify the important role of miR-124-3p in metastasis of NSCLC, thereby providing a potential therapeutic intervention.

Methods

Exosome secretion was determined by Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) and the uptake was measured by fluorescence inverted microscope. The binding mechanism between miR-124-3p and its upstream or downstream target genes was validated experimentally by Luciferase reporter. Cells migration was evaluated by transwell assays. Transcriptome sequencing on A549 was carried out to verify the potential signaling pathway underlying miR-124-3p regulation. Western blotting analysis was used to assess the level of AKT, p-AKT, PI3K, and p-PI3K protein expression in NSCLC cell lines. The role of miR-124-3p to suppress the tumor metastasis was verified in NSCLC xenograft model.

Results

Exosomes were more abundant in serum from patients with advanced lung cancer (n = 24 patients) than in these from patients with early-stage lung cancer (n = 30 patients), which suggested the potential correlation between amount of exosome secretion and the metastasis of NSCLC. Interestingly, the exosome release, uptake and the migration of NSCLC cells were notably inhibited by miR-124-3p. LINC00511 suppressed the expression of miR-124-3p to facilitate exosome transport due to its role as the competitive endogenous RNA for miR-124-3p. The miR-124-3p could directly target the 3′-UTR of Rab27a in NSCLC cells to inhibit exosome secretion and thereby prevent cell migration and invasion. Aside from the inhibition of exosome transport, miR-124-3p inhibited the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling in the intracellular environment. Finally, by measuring subcutaneous tumor weight and volume and lung metastasis, we also demonstrated that miR-124-3p inhibited tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

In NSCLC, miR-124-3p significantly suppressed metastasis through extracellular exosome transport and intracellular PI3K/AKT signaling. These findings provide new insights toward a better understanding of the NSCLC metastasis and suggest a potential treatment biomarker for NSCLC.
Implementing PointNet for point cloud segmentation in the heritage context
Authors: Haznedar Bulent , Bayraktar Rabia , Ozturk Ali Emre , Arayici Yusuf
Published: January 2023

Automated Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) from the point cloud data has been researched in the last decade as HBIM can be the integrated data model to bring together diverse sources of complex cultural content relating to heritage buildings. However, HBIM modelling from the scan data of heritage buildings is mainly manual and image processing techniques are insufficient for the segmentation of point cloud data to speed up and enhance the current workflow for HBIM modelling. Artificial Intelligence (AI) based deep learning methods such as PointNet are introduced in the literature for point cloud segmentation. Yet, their use is mainly for manufactured and clear geometric shapes and components. To what extent PointNet based segmentation is applicable for heritage buildings and how PointNet can be used for point cloud segmentation with the best possible accuracy (ACC) are tested and analysed in this paper. In this study, classification and segmentation processes are performed on the 3D point cloud data of heritage buildings in Gaziantep, Turkey. Accordingly, it proposes a novel approach of activity workflow for point cloud segmentation with deep learning using PointNet for the heritage buildings. Twenty-eight case study heritage buildings are used, and AI training is performed using five feature labelling for segmentation namely, walls, roofs, floors, doors, and windows for each of these 28 heritage buildings. The dataset is divided into clusters with 80% training dataset and 20% prediction test dataset. PointNet algorithm was unable to provide sufficient accuracy in segmenting the point clouds due to deformation and deterioration on the existing conditions of the heritage case study buildings. However, if PointNet algorithm is trained with the restitution-based heritage data, which is called synthetic data in the research, PointNet algorithm provides high accuracy. Thus, the proposed approach can build the baseline for the accurate classification and segmentation of the heritage buildings.
Predicting soil erosion potential under CMIP6 climate change scenarios in the Chini Lake Basin, Malaysia
Authors: Rendana Muhammad , Idris Wan Mohd Razi , Rahim Sahibin Abdul , Rahman Zulfahmi Ali , Lihan Tukimat
Published: January 2023

Climate change and soil erosion are very associated with environmental defiance which affects the life sustainability of humans. However, the potency effects of both events in tropical regions are arduous to be estimated due to atmospheric conditions and unsustainable land use management. Therefore, several models can be used to predict the impacts of distinct climate scenarios on human and environmental relationships. In this study, we aimed to predict current and future soil erosion potential in the Chini Lake Basin, Malaysia under different Climate Model Intercomparison Project-6 (CMIP6) scenarios (e.g., SSP2.6, SSP4.5, and SSP8.5). Our results found the predicted mean soil erosion values for the baseline scenario (2019–2021) was around 50.42 t/ha year. The mining areas recorded the highest soil erosion values located in the southeastern part. The high future soil erosion values (36.15 t/ha year) were obtained for SSP4.5 during 2060–2080. Whilst, the lowest values (33.30 t/ha year) were obtained for SSP2.6 during 2040–2060. According to CMIP6, the future soil erosion potential in the study area would reduce by approximately 33.9% compared to the baseline year (2019–2021). The rainfall erosivity factor majorly affected soil erosion potential in the study area. The output of the study will contribute to achieving the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Trade credit financing for supply chain coordination under financial challenges: a multi-leader–follower game approach
Authors: Emtehani Faranak , Nahavandi Nasim , Rafiei Farimah Mokhatab
Published: January 2023

This study is designed to solve supply chain inefficiencies caused by some members' financial problems, such as capital shortages and financing restrictions in a stochastic environment. To this end, we have established a supply chain finance framework by designing two novel coordinating contracts based on trade credit financing for different problem settings. These contracts are modeled in the form of multi-leader Stackelberg games that address horizontal and vertical competition in a supply chain consisting of multiple suppliers and a financially constrained manufacturer. However, previous studies in the trade credit literature have addressed only simple vertical competition, that is, seller-buyer competition. To solve the proposed models, two algorithms were developed by combining population-based metaheuristics, the Nash-domination concept, and the Nikaido-Isoda function. The results demonstrate that the proposed supply chain finance framework can eliminate supply chain inefficiencies and make a large profit for suppliers, as well as the financially constrained manufacturer. Furthermore, the results of the contracts’ analysis showed that if the manufacturer is required to settle its payments to suppliers before the end of the period, the trade credit contract cannot coordinate the supply chain because of a lack of incentive for suppliers. However, if the manufacturer is allowed to extend its payments to the end of the period, the proposed trade credit financing contract can coordinate the supply chain. Finally, the sensitivity analysis results indicate that the worse the financial status of the manufacturer, the more bargaining power suppliers have in determining the contract parameters for more profit.
Radiological and clinical features of multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor (MVNT)
Authors: Biyikli Erhan , Kursun Meltem , Altuntas Dogukan , Bayri Yasar , Baltacioglu Feyyaz
Published: January 2023

Background

To investigate the imaging findings and clinical features of multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor (MVNT).

Methods

We retrospectively sought for cases that have suspicious imaging findings for MVNT through the hospital information system. The patients’ demographics and clinical symptoms were extracted. All available images were re-examined.

Results

Headache was the most common complaint (n = 7). Other complaints included seizure, stroke-like symptoms and numbness. Conventional MRI revealed that all lesions consisted of tiny, sharply marginated, round or ovoid nodules following the gyral contour. These nodules were hyperintense on T2 and FLAIR WI, hypointense on T1 WI. All lesions were characterized by a lack of enhancement and diffusion restriction. Mass effect and peripheral edema were not observed. MVNT presented as an incidental finding in one case who complained gynecomastia and had pituitary adenoma on pituitary MRI. All lesions were supratentorial—mostly on the right side (10/11)—and located in subcortical white matter. Follow-up MRI was available for 11 patients with a mean of 14.8 months (3–40 months). No change in lesion size and morphology was observed in these follow-up images.

Conclusions

Radiological and clinical follow-up data suggest MVNT may exhibit indolent behavior. If asymptomatic, patients can be followed by imaging alone. Surgery should be considered for symptomatic patients.
Case report: a grievous tale of a rare primary thyroid leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Wan Mansor Wan Nabila , Abdul Gani Norhaslinda , Abu Dahari Khairul Azlan Shahril , Ahmad Aliza , Japar Jaafar Rohaizam
Published: January 2023

Background

Primary thyroid leiomysosarcoma is a rare and aggressive disease which represents 0.014% of primary thyroid cancers. It confers a diagnostic conundrum, due to difficulty to make a preoperative diagnosis of thyroid leiomyosarcoma and to differentiate it from anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.

Case presentation

We herein report a rare case of primary thyroid leiomyosarcoma. A 48-year-old male presented with history of anterior neck swelling for the past 2 months. Computed tomography (CT) neck showed hypodense nodule at the right thyroid lobe with calcification causing tracheal deviation, with intratracheal extension at 1st and 2nd tracheal rings and presence of lung metastases. The histopathology analysis yield high grade spindle cell neoplasm suggestive of sarcoma. Immunohistochemistry showed that neoplastic spindle cells were positive for smooth muscle actin, vimentin, caldesmon while no reactivity was reported for thyroglobulin, calcitonin, thyroid transcription factor-1, S-100, CD45, CD 5, and cytokeratins. Patient had undergone tracheostomy and chemotherapy but he succumbed to death 1 month after completion of chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Primary thyroid leiomyoarcoma is a very rare and aggressive disease. The treatment ranging from surgery, adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy, with high recurrence rates.
Fast 3D forward modeling of a potential field based on spherical symmetry of gravitational potential
Authors: Sun Siyuan , Gao Xiuhe , Cao Xuefeng
Published: January 2023

A novel approach is developed to implement the forward modeling of a potential field caused by prismatic grids on gridded observations with higher efficiency and less memory. Based on the spherical symmetry of gravitational potential, we summarize the parity, symmetry, and interconversion relations from derivatives and higher derivatives of gravitational potential, which reveal that there are vast repetitive calculation and storage redundancies in conventional forward modeling of a potential field for prismatic grids, especially for cubic grids. These properties help to reduce not only the size of a single kernel matrix but also the number of necessary kernels in multicomponent forward modeling of a potential field, such as a gradient tensor field or joint inversion of a potential field. Several experiments on the synthetic and the realistic Bishop models are presented to illustrate how these properties are used in the forward modeling of gravity and magnetic gradient tensors. Based on the proposed properties, a 2D fast Fourier transform is performed to accelerate the discrete deconvolution of the kernel and the model parameters. With the new method, one single kernel can be reduced to half the number of model parameters, and the memory requirement and time cost of our method can be reduced by 1/8 and 1/2, respectively, compared with previous works. In forward modeling of six gravity gradient tensor components, only two kernels need to be computed and stored, which are 1/3 of the conventional method. These examples indicate that, with high precision, our method requires less memory and less time than conventional methods. It shows potential in the fast large-scale inversion of gravity, magnetic, and gradient tensors with limited hardware resources.
Clinical Outcomes After Nonoperative Management of Large Acute Traumatic Subdural Hematomas in Older Patients: A Propensity-Scored Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kashkoush Ahmed I. , Whiting Benjamin B. , Desai Ansh , Petitt Jordan C. , El-Abtah Mohamed E. , Mcmillan Aubrey , Finocchiaro Roman , Hu Song , Kelly Michael L.
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Large (≥1 cm) acute traumatic subdural hematomas (aSDHs) are neurosurgical emergencies. Elderly patients with asymptomatic large aSDHs may benefit from conservative management.

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate inpatient mortality after conservative management of large aSDHs.

METHODS:

Single-center retrospective review of adult patients with traumatic brain injury from 2018 to 2021 revealed 45 large aSDHs that met inclusion criteria. Inpatient outcomes included mortality, length of stay, and discharge disposition. Follow-up data included rate of surgery for chronic SDH progression. Patients with large aSDHs were 2:1 propensity score–matched to patients with small (<1 cm) aSDHs based on age, Injury Severity Scale, Glasgow Coma Scale, and Rotterdam computed tomography scale.

RESULTS:

Median age (78 years), sex (male 52%), and race (Caucasian 91%) were similar between both groups. Inpatient outcomes including length of stay (P = .32), mortality (P = .37), and discharge home (P = .28) were similar between those with small and large aSDHs. On multivariate logistic regression (odds ratio [95% CI]), increased in-hospital mortality was predicted by Injury Severity Scale (1.3 [1.0-1.6]), Rotterdam computed tomography scale 3 to 4 (99.5 [2.1-4754.0), parafalcine (28.3 [1.7-461.7]), tentorial location (196.7 [2.9-13 325.6]), or presence of an intracranial contusion (52.8 [4.0-690.1]). Patients with large aSDHs trended toward higher progression on follow-up computed tomography of the head (36% vs 16%; P = .225) and higher rates of chronic SDH surgery (25% vs 7%; P = .110).

CONCLUSION:

In conservatively managed patients with minimal symptoms and mass effect on computed tomography of the head, increasing SDH size did not contribute to worsened in-hospital mortality or length of stay. Patients with large aSDHs may undergo an initial course of nonoperative management if symptoms and the degree of mass effect are mild.