bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Colour Predictions of Facial Preference by Caucasian and Chinese Observers
Authors: Lu Yan , Xiao Kaida , Yang Jie , Pointer Michael , Li Changjun , Wuerger Sophie
Published: January 2022

Facial colour characteristics convey vital personal information and influence social interactions and mate choices as contributing factors to perceived beauty, health, and age. How various colour characteristics would affect facial preference and whether there is a cultural difference are not fully understood. Here, we provide a useful and repeatable methodology for skin colour research based on a realistic skin model to investigate the effect of various facial colour characteristics on facial preference and compare the role of colour predictors in Caucasian (CA) and Chinese (CN) populations. Our results show that, although the averaged skin colour of facial areas plays a limited role, together with colour variation and contrast, there are stronger links between colour and facial preference than previously revealed. We also find large cultural differences in facial colour perceptions. Interestingly, Chinese observers tend to rely more heavily on colour cues to judge facial preference than Caucasian observers.
Optimizing Textile Dyeing Wastewater Irrigation through Physiochemical Attributes of Tomato, Plant Nutrient Use Efficiency and Pollution Load Index of Irrigated Soil
Authors: Hassan Jahidul , Rajib Md. Mijanur Rahman , Akter Masuma , Khan Md.Noor E Azam , Khandakar Shahjalal , Khalid Farhan , Rahman G. K. M. Mustafizur
Published: January 2022

This experiment considers the seven different stages of textile dyeing effluents on tomato crop production in order to diminish the excess effluent treatment plant (ETP) cost and farmers net input cost. Seven different stages waste water (WW) with ground water (control) were collected and analyzed for physiochemical as well as heavy metals properties. T8 (mixed effluent) crossed the limit of agricultural standard for almost all physiological parameters such as TDS, TSS, EC, BOD, COD affording the highest value. T8 also delivered the highest cl- and heavy metals like Cd, Ni, Cr followed by T4 (2nd wash after bath drain) < T7 (Fixing treatment water). As a consequence, these provided comparatively higher enrichment factor (EF), pollution load index (PLI) and sodium absorption ratio (SAR) to transform fresh soil into “severe” and “slightly to moderate” saline. Correlation matrix demonstrated that EF and PLI of heavy metals (except Cd, Ni) were negatively related to yield, while positively related to SAR and fruit abortion. Although T6 (2nd wash after soaping) performed better in respect to growth, yield, yield attributes and nutrient use efficiency, principal component analysis (PCA) expressed that T2 (2nd wash after scouring and bleaching) and T3 (enzyme treated water) also belong to T6 and T1 group (ground water). Therefore, T2, T3 and T6 could be used to vegetable crop production up to some extent and to reduce ETP and agricultural input cost.
Assessment of Functional Food Dioscorea Japonica Paste As A Thickened Liquid For Elderly With Dysphagia
Authors: Konoike Yuka , Tsukayama Izumi , Oji Mei , Kawakami Takayo , Ishii Kayoko , Suzuki-Yamamoto Toshiko
Published: January 2022

Background: In the elderly, reduced mastication and swallowing functions result in malnutrition and deterioration in the quality of life. As individuals age in the society, the novel concept of dysphagia diet is essential in order to prevent lifestyle and chronic diseases and maintain nutrition intake. Recently, we reported that Dioscorea japonica, a wild yam, has preventive effects on chronic inflammation via the inhibition of proinflammatory lipid mediator synthesis. The paste of Dioscorea japonica showed conformable physical properties as a thickened liquid for patients with dysphagia in rheological analysis. In the present study, we focused on the unique physical properties of Dioscorea japonica paste and evaluated its stability and usefulness as a thickened liquid compared with commercially available thickened liquids. Methods: The paste prepared using a uniformly freeze-dried Dioscorea japonica powder could suitably modify the viscosity by altering the blending amount. Viscosities of the Dioscorea japonica paste, xanthan gum, and commercially available thickened liquids were measured using a cone and plate viscometer after 1 min by employing the following setting: temperature of 20°C and shear rate of 50 s−1. The effect of changes in temperature and pH, and addition of NaCl and α-amylase, on viscosity was compared among the thickened liquids. Results: Compared with the other commercially available agents, the Dioscorea japonica paste was stable in terms of viscosity on the addition of NaCl, and no change was observed on the addition of α-amylase as similar as the others. Although the Dioscorea japonica paste was relatively stable in terms of viscosity with change in pH, it was slightly unstable with change in temperature. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the Dioscorea japonica paste is useful as a novel type of thickened liquid for patients with dysphagia.
Assessing and Delineation of Groundwater Recharge Areas in Coastal Arid Area in Tunisia Using GIS, Remote Sensing Techniques and Self-organizing Map
Authors: Abdelkarim Bilel , Telahigue Faten , Agoubi Belgacem
Published: January 2022

In Gabès region (southeastern Tunisia), given the semi-arid to arid climate conditions, groundwater is an essential resource to supply the growth needs of the socio-economic development. To ensure sustainable development and preserve water resources, a careful estimation of the present day recharge amount and the delineation of the potential zones of rainfall precipitation are of required for an accurate evaluation of regional water balance. In this context, this study aims to a preliminary assessment of groundwater recharge in Gabes basin in regard to the delineation of the potential recharge areas of phreatic aquifers. Thus, a geological and hydrogeological collected database coupled with remote sensing techniques (RST) were used for the determination of the lateral variation of recharging zone ,Treatment by ArcGIS and Matlab softwares and Kohonen self-organizing maps (K-SOM) approaches.The obtained results indicate that five recharge potential areas have been identified and classified as 27% very low, 23% low, 40% moderate recharge, 7% good and 3 % very good potential recharge located principally on southern part of the study region .This distribution is controlled principally by the geomorphological, geologic, and hydrogeologic features of the region . Reasonable management strategies based on a perennial exploitation of these low renewable resources are required to optimize the water dependent socio-economic development. The estimated groundwater potential recharge of Gabès aquifer system using K-SOM and RST is of 11.4 Mm3.y-1. This recharging rate is very low it present 7% of the total rain, thus it must be ameliorated. K-SOM and RST approach is a useful method for groundwater potential recharge mapping and is a helpful of wells establishment and groundwater sustainable management.an isotopic analyses is recommended to ameliorate the decision maker to establish the adequate strategy.
Repeated Ct-based Hounsfield Unit Measurements as a Proxy Measure of Intercorporal Bone Graft Remodelling Towards Spinal Fusion; a Feasibility Study.
Authors: Reijmer JFH , Jong LD , Kruyt M. C. , Gorp MJ van , Susante JLC van
Published: January 2022

Background: There is a lack of knowledge about the biological process of intercorporal bone graft remodelling towards successful lumbar spine fusion with bridging vital bone between two adjacent vertebrae. Hounsfield Units (HU) highly correlate with Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and changes in HU may be valuable as proxy measure to monitor ongoing fusion. The aims of this study were to explore the feasibility to quantify BMD changes in the intercorporal bone graft after spinal fusion on consecutive CT-scans, and to explore whether trends in the individual changes in HU over time may serve as a proxy measure for successful fusion or non-fusion.Methods: A retrospective case series was conducted using available one-year and two-year CT-data from patients after posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery. First, a standardized measuring procedure was developed, incorporating internal phantomless calibration, to establish the HU values of the grafted region of interest using consecutive CT-slices. Subsequently, changes in the participants’ bone graft HU over time between their first and second year after surgery were explored.Results: Between one and two years after surgery, seven out of nine (78%) participants showed an increase in their bone grafts’ HU, ranging from 3% to 41%. In two participants HU-values decreased 14% and 32%, respectively. The intraobserver reliability of the HU measuring procedure was excellent (ICC 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.91 to 0.95)).Conclusion: The majority (78%) of participants in the current study showed increases in their bone graft HU, which suggests ongoing bone graft remodelling towards lumbar fusion. This result corresponds with the established percentages of achieved rigid bony fusion after lumbar spinal fusion surgery reported in the literature. Thus, prospective follow-up of CT-based HU measurements may have potential as diagnostic measure to monitor bone graft remodelling in time and trends may predict successful fusion or non-fusion. The measurement procedure developed in this study, using internal phantomless calibration, showed excellent intraobserver reliability and merits further study in larger patient numbers.
Spatial disparities and associated factors of Under-five diarrhea disease in Ilubabor Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Gelan Ebsa , Worku Mulata , Misganaw Azmeraw , Jabessa Dabala
Published: January 2022

Diarrhea is commonly a sign of an infection in the intestinal tract that is caused by different bacteria, virus and parasitic entities. It is one of the leading causes of child mortality worldwide, especially in sub-Saharan Africa countries including Ethiopia. The main objective of this study was to identify spatial disparities and associated factors of under- five diarrhea disease in Ilubabor zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. The study has been conducted in Ilu Aba Bor zone of entire districts and the data is basically both primary and secondary which were obtained from each woreda health office of Ilu Aba Bor zone and corresponding mother or care givers of sampled child. Spatial disparities of under-five diarrhea were identified using global and local measures of spatial autocorrelation. Geo-additive regression model was used to identify the spatial disparities and associated factors of under-five diarrheal disease. The value of global and local measures of spatial autocorrelation shows that under-five diarrheal disease varies according to geographical location and shows significant positive spatial autocorrelation. The results of Geo-additive regression model showed that statistically significant relationship between under-five diarrhea disease and independent variables .There is evidence of significant under-five diarrheal disease clustering in Ilu Aba Bor zone, southwest Ethiopia. Model based data analysis showed that there is significant relationship between Under-five diarrhea and covariates (mother’s age, mother’s education, source of drinking water, quality of toilet facility, DPT 3 vaccination, Polio 3 vaccination and household wealth index.).
Effectiveness of Intraoperative Cell Salvage Combined with a Modified Leucocyte Depletion Filter in Metastatic Spine Tumour Surgery
Authors: Zong Ya-nan , Xu Chuan-ya , Gong Yue-qing , Zhang Xiao-qing , Zeng Hong , Liu Chang , Zhang Bin , Xue Li-xiang , Guo Xiang-yang , Wei Feng , Li Yi
Published: January 2022

Background

To compare the effectiveness of intraoperative cell salvage (IOCS) combined with a modified leucocyte depletion filter (MLDF) with IOCS combined with a regular leucocyte depletion filter (RLDF) in eliminating tumour cells from blood salvage during metastatic spine tumour surgery (MSTS).
Methods

Patients with a known primary epithelial tumour who underwent MSTS were recruited for this study. Blood samples were collected in 5 stages: from the patients’ vein before anaesthesia induction (S1), from the operative field during tumour manipulation (S2), and from the operative blood after IOCS processing (S3) and after IOCS+RLDF (S4) and IOCS+MLDF (S5) processing. The polyploids of tumour cells in the blood samples were collected and counted with immunomagnetic separation enrichment and fluorescence in situ hybridization.
Results

We recruited 20 patients. Tumour cells were detected in 14 patients (70%) in S1, 16 patients (80%) in S2, 13 patients (65%) in S3, and 12 patients (60%) in S4. MLDF was added in 8 patients. Tumour cells were detected in only 1 of 8 patients in S5 (12.5%). There were significantly fewer tumour cells in the samples collected after MLDF processing (S5) than in the samples collected after RLDF (S4) and around the tumour (S2) (P = 0.016 and P = 0.039, respectively). Although no significant difference was observed between S4 and S1, a downward trend was observed after IOCS+RLDF processing.
Conclusions

Tumour cells could be removed by IOCS combined with RLDF from blood salvaged during MSTS, but residual tumour cells remained. The findings support the notion that MLDF eliminates tumour cells more effectively than RLDF. Hence, this technique can be applied to MSTS.
Trial Registration

ChiCTR1800016162 Chinese Clinical Trial Registry http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=27263
Genome-based Classification of Streptomyces Pinistramenti sp. nov., a Novel Actinomycete Isolated From a Pine Forest Soil in Poland With a Focus on Its Biotechnological and Ecological Properties
Authors: Śwecimska Magdalena , Golinska Patrycja , Goodfellow Michael
Published: January 2022

A genomic-based polyphasic study was undertaken to establish the taxonomic status and biotechnological and ecological potential of a Streptomyces strain, isolate SF28T, that was recovered from the litter layer in a polish Pinus sylvestris forest. The isolate had morphological characteristics and chemotaxonomic properties consistent with its classification in the genus Streptomyces. It formed long straight chains of spores with smooth surfaces, contained LL-diaminopimelic acid and glucose and ribose in whole-organism hydrolysates, produced major proportions of straight, iso- and anteiso- fatty acids, hexa- and octa-hydrogenated menaquinones with nine isoprenoid units and had a polar lipid pattern composed of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylmethylethanolamine, glycophospholipids and three uncharacterized components. Phylogenetic trees prepared using 16S rRNA gene and multilocus gene sequences of conserved housekeeping genes showed that the isolate formed a branch that was loosely associated with the type strains of several validly published Streptomyces species. A draft genome generated for the isolate was rich in natural product-biosynthetic gene clusters with the potential to produce new specialised metabolites, notably antibiotics, and stress related genes which provide an insight into how they may have adapted to the harsh conditions that prevail in acidic forest soils. A phylogenomic tree based on the genomes of the isolate and its phylogenetic neighbours confirmed that it formed a distinct lineage well separated from its closest evolutionary relatives. The isolate shared low average nucleotide index and digital DNA:DNA hybridization values with its phylogenomic neighbours and was also distinguished from them using a combination of cultural and micromorphological properties. Given this wealth of taxonomic data it is proposed that isolate SF28T (=DSM 113360T=PCM 3163T) be classified in the genus Streptomyces as Streptomyces pinistramenti sp. nov. The isolate showed pronounced antimicrobial activity, especially against fungal plant pathogens.
Sexual Satisfaction and Sexual Behaviors During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Results From the International Sexual Health and Reproductive (I-SHARE) Health Survey in Luxembourg
Authors: Fischer Vinicius Jobim , Gómez-Bravo Raquel , Brunnet Alice Einloft , Michielsen Kristien , Tucker Joseph D. , Campbell Linda , Vögele Claus
Published: January 2022

Aim: To identify the impact of COVID-19 measures on sexual behaviors and sexual satisfaction in Luxembourg residents. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of adults (> 18 years of age) residing in Luxembourg, while COVID-19 restrictions were in place. The survey was available in four languages (French, German, English and Portuguese). Survey questions focused on masturbation, cuddling, condom use, sex frequency, sexting, cybersex, watching porn, and sexual satisfaction.Results: 557 volunteers completed the survey (35.5% men, 64.3% women). Sexual problems increased during the COVID-19 measures while sexual satisfaction decreased compared to prior the COVID-19 measures (assessed retrospectively). Factors associated with increased odds of sexual satisfaction were: having a steady relationship before COVID-19 restrictions, engaging in sexting, reporting good mental health and not altering alcohol intake.Conclusions: The context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures implemented in Luxembourg affected sexual behaviors and sexual satisfaction. Sexual and reproductive health care centers and health professionals in general should take these results into consideration when providing care. Recommendations on the importance of sexual health for general wellbeing and behaviors associated with sexual satisfaction should be offered and possibilities to experience sexuality while reducing contamination risks be discussed.
Pregnancy Outcomes of Non-Visualization of The Foetal Gallbladder From A Chinese Tertiary Single Centre And Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Huijing , Zhu Xiaoying , Kang Jinling , Yang Huixia , Sun Yu
Published: January 2022

Objection To explore the clinical features and prognosis of non-visualization of fetal gallbladder (NVFGB). Methods 65 cases diagnosed of NVFGB in the Peking University First Hospital was collected retrospectively from January, 2019 to December, 2020. Results 49 cases were successfully followed up. Among them, the gallbladder of 21 fetuses (42.9%) was visible later, either in the later pregnancy or after birth. In the rest 28 cases (57.1%), the gallbladders were not seen during the whole pregnancy. 11 of 28 fetuses (39.3%) with NVFGB were complicated with other structure anomaly. In the remaining 17 cases of isolated NVFGB (60.7%), one case was diagnosed of congenital biliary atresia, 3 cases of small gallbladder, 1 case of gallstone and one case of irregular size of gallbladder. There are 9 cases who underwent prenatal diagnosis, with 4 cases of abnormal result. Conclusion Prenatal ultrasound plays a role in the early recognize of abnormal gallbladder, which will improve the postnatal prognosis.
Neovascular Glaucoma Associated with Chronic Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
Authors: Kim Dong Ik , Woo Se Joon
Published: January 2022

Background
To demonstrate the clinical features and natural course of chronic retinal detachment associated neovascular glaucoma.
Methods
Ten patients, diagnosed with chronic retinal detachment-associated neovascular glaucoma during 2007-2016 were retrospectively investigated. Besides chronic retinal detachment, no patients had any neovascular glaucoma-predisposing conditions, such as carotid artery disease. Retinal perfusion status was evaluated from postoperative visual acuity, intraocular pressures, ocular examination findings, and fluorescein angiography images.
Results
The mean age of patients was 57.5 (range: 22-78) years. Complete retinal reattachment was achieved in 3 eyes, while partial or total chronic retinal detachment persisted in 7 eyes. Wide-angle fundus fluorescein angiography revealed peripheral retinal capillary obstruction and severe non-perfusion. Neovascular glaucoma developed 213.4 months (17-634 months) after retinal detachment. Three eyes received Ahmed valve implantation, while 5 eyes received intravitreal bevacizumab injection. Intraocular pressure was controlled in 10 eyes. Two eyes developed phthisis bulbi during follow-up.
Conclusions
In eyes with a chronic retinal detachment history, iris neovascularization and neovascular glaucoma can develop due to retinal capillary obstruction and chronic retinal ischemia, even after achieving retinal reattachment. We suggest routine follow-up examinations for patients with chronic retinal detachment, particularly for eyes with retinal non-perfusion, as detected on fundus fluorescein angiography.
Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Studies of Role of Anti-Allergic Medicines as Inhibitors Against Covid-19
Authors: Si Mrinal Kanti
Published: January 2022

The 2019-nCoV virus is a human-infectious coronavirus (CoV). Very few treatment options are available to healthcare professionals who are fighting this outbreak at the front. The main warning symptoms of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, are fever, fatigue, and a dry cough, sometimes it also causes cold-like symptoms like a runny nose which are sometimes similar to symptoms of allergies and sometimes difficult to differentiate between COVID-19 and allergies. The anti-allergic drug molecules can behave as good inhibitor against COVID-19. Molecular docking studies have been performed to examine the inhibitor properties of anti-allergic molecules against Covid-19. The searching of better inhibitors have been examined interns of various non-covalent interactions like hydrogen bond, halogen bond, vander waal’s interactions, alkyl-πand π-π interactions between small molecules (Anti-allergic medicines) with main protease of Covid-19 using molecular docking and Molecular Dynamics simulation which reveals that astemizole is best inhibitor among ten Anti-allergic drug molecules.
How Accurate are Geriatricians’ Fall Predictions?
Authors: Wilbur Jason , Jogerst Gerald , Butler Nicholas , Xu Yinghui
Published: January 2022

Background: Older patients are at increased risk of falling and of serious morbidity and mortality resulting from falls. The ability to accurately identify older patients at increased fall risk affords the opportunity to implement interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality. Geriatricians are trained to assess older patients for fall risk. If geriatricians can accurately predict fallers (as opposed to evaluating for individual risk factors for falling), more aggressive and earlier interventions could be employed to reduce falls in older adult fallers. However, there is paucity of knowledge regarding the accuracy of geriatrician fall risk predictions. This study aims to determine the accuracy of geriatricians in predicting falls. Methods: Between October 2018 and November 2019, a convenience sample of 100 subjects was recruited from an academic geriatric clinic population seeking routine medical care. Subjects performed a series of gait and balance assessments, answered the Stay Independent Brochure and were surveyed about fall incidence 6-12 months after study entry. Five geriatricians, blinded to subjects and fall outcomes, were provided the subjects’ data and asked to categorize each as a faller or non-faller. No requirements were imposed on the geriatricians’ use of the available data. These predictions were compared to predictions of an examining geriatrician who performed the assessments and to fall outcomes reported by subjects. Results: Kappa values for the 5 geriatricians who used all the available data to classify participants as fallers or non-fallers compared with the examining geriatrician were 0.42 to 0.59, indicating moderate agreement. Compared to screening tools’ mean accuracy of 66.6% (59.6-73.0%), the 5 geriatricians had a mean accuracy for fall prediction of 67.4% (57.3-71.9%).Conclusions: This study adds to the scant knowledge available in the medical literature regarding the abilities of geriatricians to accurately predict falls in older patients. Studies are needed to characterize how geriatrician assessments of fall risk compare to standardized assessment tools.
Emotion Dysregulation and Heart Rate variability Improve in US Veterans Undergoing Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Secondary Exploratory Analyses from a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Mathersul Danielle C. , Dixit Kamini , Schulz-Heik R. Jay , Avery Timothy J. , Zeitzer Jamie M. , Bayley Peter J.
Published: January 2022

Background.
Emotion regulation (ER) is a key process underlying posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), yet, little is known about how ER changes with PTSD treatment. Understanding these effects may shed light on treatment processes.
Methods.
We recently completed a randomised controlled trial demonstrating that a breathing-based yoga practice (Sudarshan kriya yoga; SKY) was not clinically inferior to cognitive processing therapy (CPT) across symptoms of PTSD, depression, or negative affect. Here, in secondary exploratory analyses (intent-to-treat N=85; per protocol N=59), we examined whether self-reported ER (Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale; DERS) and physiological ER (heart rate variability; HRV) improved with treatment for clinically significant PTSD symptoms among US Veterans.
Results.
DERS-Total and all six subscales improved with small-to-moderate effect sizes (d = .24-.66) following CPT or SKY, with no differences between treatment groups. Following SKY (but not CPT), HR max–min (average difference between maximum and minimum beats per minute), normalised HF-HRV (high frequency power), and LF/HF (low-to-high frequency) ratio improved (moved towards a healthier profile; d = .32-.55).
Conclusions.
To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that a breathing-based yoga (SKY) improved both voluntary/intentional and automatic/physiological ER. In contrast, trauma-focused therapy (CPT) only reliably improved self-reported ER. Findings have implications for PTSD treatment and interventions for emotional disorders more broadly.
Trial registration:
Secondary analyses of ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02366403.
Ticagrelor Versus Clopidogrel in The Treatment of Elderly Chinese Chronic Total Occlusion Patients Undergoing PCI
Authors: Han Peng , Liang Ying , Xu Suining , Zhao Shuai , Chen Yan , Wang Ziwei , Chen Yuhao , Zhu Boda , Sha Zhilin , Shen Anxin , Tao Feng , Wang Qin , Wang Qiong , Chen Genrui , Tan Zhijun , Yang Li , Gao Haokao , Li Chengxiang , Lian Kun
Published: January 2022

Background: Taking thrombosis and bleeding risks into consideration, little real world study data is available to dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in elderly Chinese chronic total occlusion (CTO) patients. Methods: We assigned 504 CTO patients aged ≥75 years who successfully underwent PCI from December 2009 to May 2020. The patients were randomized to Clopidogrel and Ticagrelor group and received DAPT for up to 12 months. Efficacy endpoints were evaluated by major adverse cardiac events (MACE) consisting of all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) and clinically driven revascularization. The safety endpoints were recorded as the incidence of Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) bleeding. Results: Patients in Clopidogrel group were older, they had a higher percentage of BMI, diastolic blood pressure and HDL-C than those in Ticagrelor group. Clopidogrel group had a lower percentage of hyperlipidemia, prior PCI, glucose, TG and LDL-C. No significant difference was found as to the Angiographic and procedural characteristics (P＞0.05 for all). After 12 months' follow-up, the incidence of MACE (12.19% vs. 11.04%, P=0.763) and bleeding (9.38% vs. 13.64%, P=0.205) had no significant difference. After clinical characteristics balanced matching by IPTWs model, we found that Ticagrelor had an unfavorable effect on reducing the incidence of bleeding with the IPTWs model (IPTW-OR, 1.81, 95% CI: 1.18-2.76, P=0.006). Conclusions: This clinical study demonstrated that Clopidogrel should be recommended to elderly CTO patients after PCI, especially those with a high bleeding risk. Trial registration: The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Air Force Medical University (KY20172019-1).
Polyelectrolyte Complexes of Ciprofloxacin and Lidocaine Improve Wound Healing in Deep Second Degree Burns and Reduce in Vitro Ciprofloxacin Cytotoxicity in Fibroblasts
Authors: Sanchez María Florencia , Guzman María Laura , Flores-Martín Jesica , Puerto Mariano Cruz Del , Laino Carlos , Soria Elio Andres , Genti-Raimondi Susana , Olivera María Eugenia
Published: January 2022

The development of new treatments capable of controlling infections and pain related to burns continues to be a challenge. Antimicrobials are necessary tools, but these can be cytotoxic for regenerating cells.In this study, antibiotic-anesthetic smart systems obtained by ionic complexation of polyelectrolytes with ciprofloxacin and lidocaine were obtained as film and hydrogel. The complexation of ciprofloxacin with natural polyelectrolytes efficiently contributed to increasing biocompatibility in a primary culture of isolated fibroblasts. In addition, the relative levels of the proteins integrin β1 and p-FAK involved in cell migration were increased with no modifications in cell mobility. Their evaluation in a deep second-degree burn model revealed fast reepithelization, with appendage conservation and complete dermis organization. Encouragingly, we found that both the film and the hydrogel showed a significantly superior performance compared to the reference treatment of silver sulfadiazine cream. This work highlights the great potential of this smart system as an attractive dressing for burns, which surpasses currently available treatments.
Functional interdependence of the actin regulators CAP1 and cofilin1 in control of dendritic spine morphology
Authors: Heinze Anika , Schuldt Cara , Khudayberdiev Sharof , Bommel Bas van , Hacker Daniela , Schulz Toni , Stringhi Ramona , Marcello Elena , Mikhaylova Marina , Rust Marco
Published: January 2022

The vast majority of excitatory synapses are formed on small dendritic protrusions termed dendritic spines. Dendritic spines vary in size and density that are both crucial determinants of excitatory synaptic transmission. Aberrations in spine morphogenesis can compromise brain function and have been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Because actin filaments (F-actin) are the major structural component in spines, actin-binding proteins (ABP) that control F-actin dis-/assembly moved into the focus as critical regulators of brain function. Indeed, mouse studies identified the ABP cofilin1 as a key regulator of spine morphology, synaptic transmission and behavior. These studies emphasized the necessity for a tight control of cofilin1 to ensure proper brain function. We report spine enrichment of cyclase-associated protein 1 (CAP1), a conserved multidomain protein with largely unknown physiological functions. Super-resolution microscopy and live cell imaging of CAP1-deficient hippocampal neurons revealed impaired synaptic F-actin organization and dynamics associated with alterations in spine morphology. Mechanistically, we found that CAP1 cooperated with cofilin1 in spines and that its helical folded domain mediated this interaction. Moreover, our data proved functional interdependence of CAP1 and cofilin1 in control of spine morphology. In summary, we identified CAP1 as a novel regulator of the postsynaptic actin cytoskeleton that was essential for synaptic cofilin1 activity.
Prevalence of Overweight And Obesity And Associated Factors Among People Living With Hiv Attending A Tertiary Care Clinic In Uganda
Authors: Nalugga Esther Alice , Laker Eva , Nabaggala Maria Sarah , Ddungu Ahmed , Batte Charles , Piloya Theresa , Bongomin Felix
Published: January 2022

Background: Overweight and obesity are significantly increasing among people living with HIV (PLWH), contributing to the risk of major adverse cardio-metabolic events. However, little is known on its prevalence among PLWH in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, we report the prevalence and factors associated with overweight and obesity among PLWH in a large tertiary HIV clinic in Kampala, Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional, retrospective review of electronic database of all PLWH that attended the Adult Infectious Diseases Institute clinic between November 2018 and April 2019 was conducted. Demographic, body mass index (BMI) [kg/m2] and clinical variables were extracted. Based on BMI, nutritional status was classified as undernutrition (< 18.5kg/m2), normal (≥18.5 < 25kg/m2), overweight (≥25 < 30kg/m2) and obesity (≥ 30kg/m2). Poisson regression analysis was performed to determine factors associated with overweight and obesity.Results: Overall, 7,818 participants were included in the analysis, 64% (n=4,976) were female, with a median age of 44 years (interquartile range (IQR): 36 — 51) and a median BMI of 24.2 (IQR: 21.2 — 28.1). The prevalence of overweight and obesity combined was 46% (55% female versus 30% male), obesity 18.2% (24.6% female versus 7.1% male) and overweight 27.8% (30.4% female versus 22.9% male). Factors associated with overweight and obesity were: Female sex (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR]: 1. 8, 95%CI:1.69 — 1.87), age category 25—59 years (aPR: 1.9, 95%CI: 1.63 — 2.24) and ≥ 60 years (aPR: 1.8, 95%CI:1.49 — 2.12); duration on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for 6—10 years (aPR: 1.1, 95%CI:1.08 — 1.18), CD4 count ≥500 (aPR:1.3, 95%CI:1.21 — 1.30) and having at least one noncommunicable disease (NCD) (aPR: 1.1, 95%CI:1.07 — 1.18). Conclusions: There is a high burden of overweight and obesity among PLWH in Uganda. Nutrition and weight management programs particularly targeting high risk groups such as female and persons with underlying NCDs should be integrated into HIV care.
Switching Control of Latex Balloon Expansion by using Switching Valve mediated with the Coanda Effect
Authors: Kaneko Keita , Takemura Kenjiro
Published: January 2022

Soft robots have advantages in terms of safety, softness, and compliance compared to traditional robotic systems. However, fluid-driven soft actuators, often employed in soft robots, require a corresponding number of bulky pressure supplies/valves to drive. Here, we consider a valve that can control the flow without mechanical moving parts for simplifying the driving system of soft actuators. We developed a system comprising a pump, a switching valve, and two latex balloons to demonstrate the feasibility of introducing a fluid valve into soft robotics. As the valve, which makes use of the Coanda effect, can switch the flow between two outlets when the pressure difference between the outlets is 3 kPa, we employed a latex balloon connected to each outlet. The system can control the expansion of each balloon by switching the flow from the pump. The experimental results proved that the system could actuate each balloon.
Reliability, Validity, and Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of the Tayside Children's Sleep Questionnaire
Authors: Rizi Farid Rajaee , Asgarian Fatemeh Sadat
Published: January 2022

Background: Tayside children's sleep questionnaire (TCSQ) is a simple tool for screening the Disorders of Initiating and Maintaining Sleep among children aged between one and five years. In this study, we aimed to translate TCSQ into Persian and evaluate the validity and reliability of TCSQ among Persian speakers.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 311 children aged 1-5 years in Isfahan. After permission, the forward-backward translation method is used to develop the Persian version. Finally, 311 children participated in this survey, and 30 were repeated for a second time. Google Form, SPSS16, and STATA14 were used for data collection, descriptive statics, and factor analysis. BEARS questionnaire is used for convergent validity. Three expert opinions were used for content validity.Results: In this study, 404 mothers of children in Isfahan volunteered to participate in the survey, of which 311 remained. The mean and standard deviation age of their children was 3.47±1.91 years. Cronbach Alpha of the Persian version of TCSQ was 0.76 CI (0.78-0.66). The intra-class correlation coefficient was 0.67 CI (0.60-0.74). The content validity index was 0.88, and three factors (Disturbance, nighttime, parents) with a specific value greater than 0.4 is determined by factor analysis.Conclusions: The current study results indicate that TCSQ has good reliability and validity among Persian speakers.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Heterogeneity Among Adult Mouse, Primate and Human Kidney Cells
Authors: Chen Shuai , Liao Jinling , Chen Yang , Lv Yufang , Song Qiong , Wang Lihui , Huang Chao , Yang Xin , Du Kechen , Mo Zengnan , Zou Chunlin
Published: January 2022

Multiple studies have been performed to map the kidney landscape of human and rodent, along with the development of sequencing technique. Although rodent disease models have been widely applied, many disadvantages also exist. Non-human primates (NHPs) are considered as the closest experimental animals to humans and show great advantages in the construction of animal models of human disease. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the heterogeneity and homogeneity between human and multiple animal kidney cells is important for further establishing animal models of human renal disease. Here, we generated the first single-cell transcriptome data of normal adult cynomolgus monkey kidney using 10x Genomics scRNA-seq platform. Then, we further performed an in-depth comparison across species at the single-cell level, and our analysis indicated that the gene expression of adult primate kidney cells showed a better correlation with human kidney than mouse kidney. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that the cellular localization of GWAS-identified renal disease genes showed differences across species. The cellular localization of blood pressure associated genes in human displayed similarity to cynomolgus monkey. This study provided a reliable reference for further studies associated with renal diseases on NHPs. In addition, our results also provided a novel insight into the choice of renal disease animal model and a detailed explanation for close genetic relationship between NHPs and human at a single cell level.
Parkia biglobosa aqueous extract ameliorates risk markers of cardiometabolic diseases in spironolactone treated and high-salt fed Sprague-Dawley male rat
Authors: Oyabambi Adewumi , Akinnuga Akinjide , Echibiri Success , Imam-Fulani Aminat , Abdulsalam Abdulbasit , Oluranti Olufemi
Published: January 2022

Background: The numbers of people with salt-sensitive hypertension and cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) are increasing due to high-salt diet (HSD) consumption globally. Parkia biglobosa (PB), an African locust bean tree, has been reported to have several cardiovascular protective properties but its ameliorative effects on CMD are scarcely reported. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the effects of PB stem bark aqueous extract on some risk markers of CMD in weanling male rats subjected to HSD and Spironolactone (Sp) treatment.Twenty-five weanling male rats (95-105 g) were divided into 5 groups: Group 1 (Control); Group 2 (untreated HSD) fed on normal chow and HSD (8% NaCl); Group 3 (HSD+Sp); Group 4 (HSD+PB); Group 5 (HSD+Sp+PB) fed on HSD (8% NaCl) and received either 80 mg/kg of Sp or 400 mg/kg of PB and both as treatment, respectively. After 6 weeks of treatment, blood samples and heart were collected from each animal for biochemical analysis.Results: Administration of both PB and Sp or only PB, significantly decreased the plasma or cardiac adenosine deaminase, xanthine oxidase, C-reactive protein, lipids (except high density lipoprotein), uric acid, sodium, and potassium concentrations. Contrarily, the plasma as well as cardiac nitric oxide and endothelial nitric oxide synthase increased significantly by the same treatment.Conclusion: Parkia biglobosa or its administration with Spironolactone ameliorates associated-risk markers of cardiometabolic disease which are triggered by high salt diet.
Salt Tolerant Gossypium hirsutum L. Cultivars are Mostly Long-Staple Length Cultivars
Authors: Predeepa Rachel , Kumar Ranjith , Abraham George C. , Subramanian T. S.
Published: January 2022

Background: Cotton is a major cash crop in the global and, in particular, the Indian markets, playing an important economic role in the textile and oil industries. The cotton plant is one of the highly bred plants that is highly sensitive to salt stress. As cotton is a non-food crop, the availability of non-saline terrain and water for the cultivation of cotton plants is only next to other food crops, thereby posing a need to better understand the salt tolerance of this plant. Gossypium hirsutum L. cultivars MCU 5, LRA 5166, and SVPR 2 were selected based on exomorphic traits like staple length and cropping season so that the genotypic responses to salt stress and salt shock can be compared for interpreting the effects of salinity on in vitro germination. Thus, this study aims to establish genotypic dependence on salinity tolerance. Results: The results affirmed genotypic variation in salinity tolerance, with MCU 5 tolerating salt stress better than LRA 5166 and SVPR 2 in all the observed stages of growth of the plant and the parameters measured. Further salt-tolerant cotton varieties were observed to be long-staple length varieties; staple length is the fiber character of the cotton lint. Moreover, salt tolerance in the vegetative growth stage of cotton plants is not independent of the germination stage of the plant.Conclusion: Nevertheless, the correlation of genotypic dependence to morphological characteristics, in particular, staple length (and cropping season), is of agronomic and commercial significance. Further research by screening and investigating a greater number of cultivars using biochemical and molecular techniques will provide a better understanding of this observed phenotypical relationship to the genotypes of cotton cultivars under salt stress.
Sarcopenia is an Independent Risk Factor for Postoperative Blood Transfusion in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective, Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Hwang Doohyun , Han Hyuk-Soo , Lee Myung Chul , Ro Du Hyun
Published: January 2022

Background: Sarcopenia, an age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, is correlated with adverse outcomes after some surgeries. This study examined the incidence and characteristics of sarcopenic patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and identified sarcopenia as an independent risk factor for postoperative TKA complications.Methods: A retrospective cohort study examined 452 patients who underwent TKA. The skeletal muscle index (SMI) was obtained via bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), along with demographics, the Charlson Comorbidity Index, and medication, laboratory and operative data for 2018–2021. Patients were categorized into non-sarcopenia (n = 417) and sarcopenia (n = 35) groups using the SMI cut-off suggested by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 (males, < 7.0 kg/m2; females, < 5.7 kg/m2). Three postoperative complications were analyzed: blood transfusion, delirium, and acute kidney injury (AKI). Baseline characteristics were propensity score-matched to address potential bias and confounding factors.Results: The incidence of sarcopenia in primary TKA was 7.7% (35/452). The sarcopenia group had a lower preoperative hemoglobin (12.18±1.20 vs. 13.04±1.73 g/dL, p=0.004) and total protein (6.73±0.42 vs. 7.06±0.44 mg/dL, p=0.001). Propensity scoring matching and logistic regression showed that more patients in the sarcopenia group received postoperative blood transfusions (OR = 6.60, 95% CI: 1.57–45.5, p=0.021); there was no significant difference in AKI or delirium. Univariate receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of the propensity-matched group, to determine the predictive value of SMI for postoperative transfusion, gave an AUC of 0.797 (0.633–0.96) and SMI cut-off of 5.6 kg/m2.Conclusions: Sarcopenia determined by BIA was an independent risk factor for postoperative transfusion in TKA. Multifrequency BIA can serve as a screening tool for sarcopenia. Orthopedic surgeons should be aware of this, as it could influence the decision-making process or treatment plan of patients with sarcopenia undergoing primary TKA.Level of evidence: III, retrospective cohort study
Recombinant Fusion Protein Vaccine Containing FliC and FliD Protects Mice Against Clostridioides Difficile Infection
Authors: Wang Shaohui , Ju Xianghong , Zhang Keshan , Duan Zhibian , Patabendige Hiran Malinda Lamabadu Warnakulasuriya , Zhao Song , Sun Xingmin
Published: January 2022

Bacterial flagella are involved in infection through their roles in host-cell adhesion, cell invasion, auto-agglutination, colonization, and formation of biofilms, as well as in the regulation and secretion of non-flagellar bacterial proteins involved in the virulence process. In this study, we constructed a fusion protein vaccine (FliCD) containing Clostridiodes difficile flagellar proteins FliC and FliD. Immunization of mice with FliCD induce potent IgG antibody responses against FliCD and protected mice against C. difficile infection and decrease C. difficile spores and toxin levels in the feces after infection. Furthermore, we found anti-FliCD serum protected mice against CDI and decreased C. difficile spores and toxin levels in the feces after C. difficile infection. Finally, we found that anti-FliCD serum inhibited the binding of C. difficile vegetative cells to HCT8 cells. These results imply that FliCD fusion protein may represent an effective vaccine candidate for the prevention from C. difficile infection (CDI).
Single Particle Hopping as an Indicator for Evaluating Electrocatalysts
Authors: Wang Jungang , Zhang Linjuan , Xie Jing , Li Di
Published: January 2022

Design and screening electrocatalysts for gas evolution reactions suffer from scanty understanding of multi-phase processes at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Due to the complexity of multi-phase interface, it is still a great challenge to capture gas evolution dynamics under operando condition to precisely portray the intrinsic catalytic performance of interface. Here, we establish a single particle imaging method to real time monitor a potential-dependent vertical motion or hopping of electrocatalysts induced by electrogenerated gas nanobubbles. The hopping feature of single particle is closely correlated with intrinsic activities of electrocatalysts, thus is developed to be an indicator to evaluate gas evolution performance of various electrocatalysts. This optical indicator diminishes interferences from heterogeneous morphologies, non-Faradaic processes and parasitic side reactions that are unavoidable in conventional electrochemical measurements, therefore enables precise evaluation and high-throughput screening of catalysts for gas evolution systems.
Convolutional Neural Network-based Reconstruction for Positronium Annihilation Localization
Authors: Jegal Jin , Jeong Dongwoo , Seo Eun-Suk , Park HyeoungWoo , Kim Hongjoo
Published: January 2022

A hermetic novel detector composed of 200 Bismuth germanium oxide crystal scintillators and 393 channel silicon photomultipliers has been developed for positronium (Ps) annihilation study. This compact 4π detector is capable of simultaneously detecting γ-ray decay in all directions, enabling not only the study of visible and invisible exotic decay processes but also tumor localization in positron emission tomography for small animals. In this study, we investigate the use of a convolutional neural network (CNN) for the localization of the Ps annihilation synonymous with tumor localization. The 2-γ decay systems of the Ps annihilation from the 22Na and 18F radioactive sources are simulated using GEANT4. The simulated data sets are preprocessed by applying energy cuts. The spatial error in the XY plane from CNN is compared to that from the classical centroiding, weighted k-means algorithm. The feasibility of the CNN-based Ps an-nihilation reconstruction with tumor localization is discussed.