bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Research on the Potential Value and Realistic Dilemma for Homework in Physical Education
Authors: Xu Yue , Jia Chenyu
Published: February 2023

Homework in physical education (PE) has become a central strategy of educational reform movements (Novak & Lynott, 2015). A Chinese
policy called “the Double Reduction” provides an opportunity for the implementation of PE homework. There are abundant studies about
homework in subjects like English, Math, Science, etc., but relatively few studies have been devoted specifically to PE homework.
The primary purpose of this study was to analyze the value and dilemma of PE homework, with the goal of identifying the major
contributions to the research knowledge base. We followed three parts to conduct the review: a) literature was searched using
the following keywords: “PE homework”, OR “active homework”, AND “the value and dilemma”, AND/OR “homework in physical education”
or “activity-based homework”; b) A document analysis was conducted regarding the Chinese policy related to homework in PE,
including homework’s guidelines, composition system, and cultivation path, etc.; c) A total of 34 highly relevant articles
were selected. The main value and dilemma of PE homework were summarized as follows: a) The PE homework appears to be an
effective way of promoting policy implementation and renewal, providing a well-rounded approach to help students achieve
educational goal, improving youth physical & mental health, and increasing communications with family members. b) The current
PE homework has failed to realize the foregoing values due to some difficulties, including the lack of family exercise
atmosphere, the absence of community organizations, and the huge amount of negative news in social media. c) Only three
studies provided coping strategies to deal with the dilemma from a Social System Theory perspective, such as strengthening
institutional construction, building a multivariate framework, shaping the paradigm, integrating online platform, and developing an assessment system. Most studies focused on the micro level about “the value and dilemma of homework implementation” without consideration of the other key factors from macro level. Based on the literature reviewed, a comprehensive theoretical model for PE homework is proposed to provide guidance for future research endeavors and facilitate implementation of the guidelines.
Editorial – Application of Artificial Intelligence to Improve Imaging in Ophthalmology
Authors: Christopher Mark
Published: February 2023

This is an Editorial and does not have an abstract. Please download the PDF or view the article in HTML.
Risk Factors Associated with Keratoconus in an Iranian Population
Authors: Mohammad-Rabei Hossein , Ramin Shahrokh , Lotfi Sahar , Sabbaghi Hamideh , Karimian Farid , Abdi Saeid , Shahriari Mohammad Hasan , Kheiri Bahareh , Sheibani Kourosh , Ali Javadi Mohammad
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To determine associated factors for keratoconus (KCN) in the Iranian population. Methods: In this retrospective case-control study, 100 KCN patients and 200 age- and sex-matched individuals, who were either candidates for photorefractive keratectomy or healthy referrals from the Torfeh Eye Hospital, were included as the case and control groups, respectively. KCN patients were all registered at the Iranian National Registry of Keratoconus (KCNReg®). Demographic characteristics, patients’ symptoms and their habits, as well as systemic and ocular disorders were documented. Clinical examinations included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and refractive error measurements, biomicroscopic examination, and corneal imaging. Results: In this case group, the frequency of mild, moderate, and severe KCN was 38%, 28%, and 34%, respectively. Parental consanguinity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.758, P = 0.029), positive familial history in patients’ first degree (OR = 12.533, P < 0.001) and second degree (OR = 7.52, P < 0.001) relatives, vernal keratoconjunctivitis (OR = 7.510, P = 0.003), severe eye rubbing (OR = 10.625, P < 0.001), and systemic diseases including migraine, hypertension, and thyroid disease (OR = 6.828, P = 0.021) were found as associated factors for KCN. Lesser frequency of KCN was observed in patients with Fars ethnicity (OR = 0.583, P = 0.042), with higher levels of wealth indices (OR = 0.31, P < 0.001) and higher levels of education (OR = 0.18, P = 0.024). Conclusion: Severe eye rubbing, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, parental consanguinity and positive familial history of KCN, low socioeconomic status, and low levels of education were significantly associated with KCN in our study population.
Histopathology of Corneal Lenticules Obtained from Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) versus Microkeratome Excision
Authors: Abdelkawi Ahmed Salwa , Mohi Eldin Taher Ibrahim , Fouad Ghoneim Dina , Ahmed Elnaggar Mohammed , Ahmed Hassan Aziza
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To study the alterations on the lenticules extracted after femtosecond (Femto) small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) versus the corneal free cap removed using a microkeratome. Methods: The visuMax (500 kHz; laser energy: 180 nJ) was used for small-incision lenticule extraction. Free caps from human cadaveric corneas were excised by microkeratome. The collected lenticules were examined with the light and transmission electron microscope (TEM) for histological analysis, DNA fragmentation was assessed by agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA damage was evaluated using comet assay, and corneal proteins secondary structure was assessed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results: Light microscopic examination showed the presence of more edematous stroma under Femto SMILE than under free cap with a percentage change of 101.6%. In the Femto SMILE group, TEM examination showed pyknotic keratocytes, disruption, and cavitation of the collagen arrays stromal area under Femto SMILE. The DNA fragmentation for the Femto SMILE group revealed one undefined band with a size of 1.1 Kbp. The comet assay analysis indicated the presence of 3% and 8.0% tailed cells for the free cap and Femto SMILE groups, respectively. The tail lengths were 1.33 ± 0.16 and 1.67 ± 0.13 μm (P < 0.01), the percentage of tail DNA was 1.41 ± 0.18% (P < 0.01) and 1.72 ± 0.15%, and the tail moments were 1.88 ± 0.12 AU and 2.87 ± 0.14 AU (P < 0.001) for the free cap and Femto SMILE groups, respectively. FTIR spectroscopy of the Femto smile group revealed disorders in the secondary and tertiary structure of the proteins. Conclusion: Femto SMILE technique induced more structural changes, DNA fragmentation, DNA damage, and corneal proteins secondary structure alteration than those induced by a microkeratome cutting. These changes may be attributed to the deep penetration of high energy levels to the corneal layer. These findings may highlight the potential impact of the Femto SMILE on the cornea and the necessity for managing the laser parameters used.
Adenosine Receptors Expression in Human Retina and Choroid with Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Goebel Collin P. , Sheibani Nader , Song Yong-Seok , S. Zaitoun Ismail , Wang Shoujian , A. D. Potter Heather , M. Sorenson Christine
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Adenosine signaling modulates ocular inflammatory processes, and its antagonism mitigates neovascularization in both newborns and preclinical models of ocular neovascularization including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The adenosine receptor expression patterns have not been well characterized in the human retina and choroid. Methods: Here we examined the expression of adenosine receptor subtypes within the retina and choroid of human donor eyes with and without AMD. Antibodies specifically targeting adenosine receptor subtypes A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 were used to assess their expression patterns. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis was used to confirm gene expression of these receptors within the normal human retina and choroid. Results: We found that all four receptor subtypes were expressed in several layers of the retina, and within the retinal pigment epithelium and choroid. The expression of A1 receptors was more prominent in the inner and outer plexiform layers, where microglia normally reside, and supported by RNA expression in the retina. A2A and A2B showed similar expression patterns with prominent expression in the vasculature and retinal pigment epithelium. No dramatic differences in expression of these receptors were observed in eyes from patients with dry or wet AMD compared to control, with the exception A3 receptors. Eyes with dry AMD lost expression of A3 in the photoreceptor outer segments compared with eyes from control or wet AMD. Conclusion: The ocular presence of adenosine receptors is consistent with their proposed role in modulation of inflammation in both the retina and choroid, and their potential targeting for AMD treatment.
The Role of TRiC-enhanced Actin Folding in Leber Congenital Amaurosis
Authors: Berger Joachim , Berger Silke , D. Currie Peter
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Mutations in TCP-1 ring complex (TRiC) have been associated with Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). TRiC is involved in protein folding and has 8 essential subunits including CCT5. Herein, we studied the retina of TRiC mutant zebrafish to evaluate the possible role of impaired actin and tubulin folding in LCA. Methods: The cct5tf 212b retina was histologically studied using Toluidine Blue staining as well as TUNEL, BrdU-labeling, and Phalloidin assays. Retinal organisation was assessed by quantification of the cellularity utilising DAPI. Results: Laminar organization of cct5tf 212b retinas was intact. Enhanced apoptosis throughout the cct5tf 212b retina was not compensated by higher proliferation rates, leaving the cct5tf 212b retina smaller in size. Quantification of retinal layer cellularity demonstrated that specifically the numbers of the amacrine and the retinal ganglion cells were depleted, suggesting that the cct5tf 212b retina was not uniformly affected by the reduced actin folding. Conclusion: Whereas the current literature suggests that LCA is predominantly affecting retinal photoreceptor cells and the retinal pigment epithelium, cct5tf 212b analyses demonstrated the important role of folding of actin by TRiC, suggesting that cct5
Clinical Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Glaucoma
Authors: Yousefi Siamak
Published: February 2023

Ophthalmology is one of the major imaging-intensive fields of medicine and thus has potential for extensive applications of artificial intelligence (AI) to advance diagnosis, drug efficacy, and other treatment-related aspects of ocular disease. AI has made impressive progress in ophthalmology within the past few years and two autonomous AIenabled systems have received US regulatory approvals for autonomously screening for mid-level or advanced diabetic retinopathy and macular edema. While no autonomous AI-enabled system for glaucoma screening has yet received US regulatory approval, numerous assistive AI-enabled software tools are already employed in commercialized instruments for quantifying retinal images and visual fields to augment glaucoma research and clinical practice. In this literature review (non-systematic), we provide an overview of AI applications in glaucoma, and highlight some limitations and considerations for AI integration and adoption into clinical practice.
Neuro-ophthalmic Manifestations of Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Its Vaccination: A Narrative Review
Authors: Feizi Mohadeseh , R. Isen Danielle , Tavakoli Mehdi
Published: February 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a current pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has vastly affected the whole world. Although respiratory disease is the most common manifestation of COVID-19, the virus can affect multiple organs. Neurotropic aspects of the virus are increasingly unfolding, in so far as some respiratory failures are attributed to brainstem involvement. The neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of COVID-19 and the neuro-ophthalmic side effects of vaccination were reviewed. The major findings are that the SARS-CoV-2 infection commonly causes headaches and ocular pain. It can affect the afferent and efferent visual pathways by ischemic or inflammatory mechanisms. Optic nerve may be the origin of transient or permanent visual loss from papillophlebitis, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, or optic neuritis. Cerebrovascular strokes are not uncommon and may lead to cortical visual impairment or optic nerve infarction. SARSCoV- 2 may affect the pupillomotor pathways, resulting in tonic pupil (Adie’s syndrome) or Horner’s syndrome. Cranial neuropathies including third, fourth, sixth, and seventh nerve palsies have all been reported. Rhino-orbital mucormycosis superinfections in COVID-19 patients receiving steroids or other immunosuppressive therapies may result in unilateral or bilateral visual loss and ophthalmoplegia. Autoimmune conditions such as Guillain- Barré, Miller-Fisher syndrome, and ocular myasthenia have been reported.
A Multifaceted Approach to Treatment of Recalcitrant Cutaneous Periorbital Juvenile Xanthogranuloma
Authors: Van Brummen Alexandra , Feng Shu , Li Emily , J. Amadi Arash , Jacobs Sarah
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To demonstrate novel treatments for patients with high juvenile xanthogranuloma ( JXG) eyelid lesion burden. Case Report: A 14-year-old girl was referred to the oculoplastic surgery service for management of worsening extensive bilateral eyelid and adnexal lesions in the setting of JXG. The patient underwent intra-lesional steroid injections, serial excisions, and reconstruction with skin grafts. She was subsequently treated with CO2 laser-assisted topical steroid application, which resulted in lesion regression. Conclusion: A novel multimodal approach to treatment of severe periocular JXG, incorporating surgical debulking, skin autograft, CO2 laser, and intra-lesional steroids, can be effective for lesion control.
Novel Well-defined Polystyrene-block-Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) Block Copolymers
Authors: ALTİNTAS Ozcan
Published: February 2023

A facile preparation of polystyrene-block-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) PS-b-PLGA block copolymers was reported in detail. Well-defined PS-b-PLGA block copolymers were successfully obtained via living anionic polymerization and ring-opening polymerization. First, hydroxyl-terminated linear polystyrenes were prepared by living anionic polymerization. The resulting polymers were used as macroinitiators for ring-opening copolymerization of lactide and glycolide in the presence of the 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) as a catalyst in dichloromethane at ambient temperature. Transesterification and formation of DBU-initiated polymers were minimized by optimizing the catalyst concentration. Three block copolymers were synthesized in various molecular weights from 5000 g/mol to 33600 g/mol with low polydispersity. The formation of well-defined PS-b-PLGA block copolymers was followed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and size-exclusion chromatography. Thermal properties of the block copolymers were investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The morphology of the block copolymers was investigated using small-angle X-ray scattering in the bulk and via grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering as well as atomic force microscopy in thin film demonstrating organized nanostructures with uniform domain sizes. Overall, this manuscript describes an expanded polymer toolbox for PLGA-based polymers for next-generation lithography applications.
Analgesic efficacy and safety of epidural and paravertebral blocks in thoracotomy surgery
Authors: ONUR Tuğba , DEMİREL Asiye , ONUR Anıl , OZGUNAY Seyda Efsun , KARACA Ümran , ENGİN Mesut
Published: February 2023

Objectives: Epidural anesthesia, once considered a gold standard, has significant complications: hypotension, urinary retention, and catastrophic neurological damage in rare cases. While paravertebral analgesia can provide similar analgesic effectiveness to epidural analgesia, it is associated with fewer side effects. To compare the perioperative and postoperative effects of epidural (ED) and ultrasound-guided paravertebral block (PVB) applications in thoracotomy surgeries.
Methods: Fifty-two patients underwent elective thoracotomy; Group 1 (ED, n = 23) and Group 2 (PVB, n = 29) were evaluated. A comparison of hemodynamic parameters and complications preoperatively and postoperatively, postoperative analgesia requirements, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores within 24 hours at specified times, the amount of analgesic used, the time to mobilize, the time to discharge, and the VAS values measured at three months was made.
Results: There was no difference between the study groups regarding demographic and ASA values, most comorbid chronic diseases, obesity, and smoking. The number of attempts, the postoperative 2nd hour VAS score, and the doses of paracetamol and tramadol used was significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p = 0.002, p = 0.002, p = 0.012, and p = 0.022, respectively). There was no statistical difference between the groups in terms of postoperative 6, 12, 24 hours, and 3 months VAS scores, first mobilization and discharge, time to remove the thorax tube, intensive care (PACU) need, and perioperative and postoperative complications (p > 0.05).
Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided PVB can be considered a safe and effective alternative to ED in thoracotomy surgery.
Learning From and Preventing Failure in WASH
Authors: Sindall Rebecca C. , Barrington Dani J. , Shaylor Esther
Published: February 2023

Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) failures continue to be discussed mostly off the record, with professionals the world over repeating one another’s mistakes. Failure is difficult to talk about, but WASH failures have negative impacts – money is wasted and sometimes people are harmed. We need to acknowledge that not everything we try will succeed, but that if we learn from one another, we can continuously improve our work. Since 2018, we have attempted to foster this change through the ‘WASH Failures Movement’. This issue of 'Frontiers of Sanitation' is a compilation of what we’ve learned about why WASH failures happen, how we can address them, and how we can facilitate a culture of sharing and learning from failure in the WASH sector.
Integrasi Pelayanan Teman Bus Terhadap Kawasan Strategis Pariwisata Nasional di Bali
Authors: Ginting Verina Dwiyolanda , Putra I Kadek Krisnanda , Maharani Ni Putu Anistia , Kusuma Rizal Arzi Fajar , Dwipayana Arif Devi
Published: February 2023

The transportation service integration system aims to facilitate transportation users in carrying out activities. One factor that determines the integration of transportation services is the route. "Teman Bus" is here to facilitate the movement of tourists in Bali which is the implementation of the Ministry of Transportation program. The research explains and provides an overview related to the Teman Bus service as a program of the Ministry of Transportation in an effort to realize a transportation system with a buy-the-service concept in terms of route or route service aspects, facilities, and community satisfaction. Data analysis was done using questionnaires which are distributed to the public using the Teman Bus service. The results of the study show that the most perceived obstacle from these three aspects is the lack of integration of the Teman Bus service route to the national tourism strategic area in Bali. This is the cause of the public interest decline in the Teman Bus service. Evaluation of Teman Bus services is that in the future they can add or improve routes so that they can provide convenience to passengers, especially local and foreign people, in moving from one tourist location to another.

ABSTRAK

Sistem integrasi layanan transportasi bertujuan untuk memudahkan pengguna transportasi dalam melakukan kegiatan. Salah satu faktor yang menentukan integrasi layanan transportasi adalah rute. “Teman Bus” hadir untuk memudahkan pergerakan wisatawan di Bali yang merupakan implementasi dari program Kementerian Perhubungan. Tujuan penelitian menjelaskan dan memberikan gambaran terkait dengan layanan Teman Bus sebagai program Kementerian Perhubungan dalam upaya mewujudkan sistem transportasi yang berkonsep buy the service dilihat dari aspek pelayanan jalur atau rute, fasilitas dan kepuasan masyarakat. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis secara deskriptif menggunakan kuesioner untuk melihat pendapat responden terkait dengan layanan Teman Bus. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan hambatan yang paling dirasakan dari ketiga variabel tersebut adalah kurang terintegrasinya rute pelayanan Teman Bus terhadap kawasan strategis pariwisata nasional di Bali. Hal ini menjadi penyebab minat masyarakat terhadap layanan Teman Bus menurun. Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah Teman Bus melakukan evaluasi untuk dapat menambah atau memperbaiki rute sehingga memberikan kemudahan kepada penumpang, terutama masyarakat lokal maupun asing dalam melakukan perpindahan dari satu lokasi wisata ke lokasi wisata lainnya.
Production of a selective antibacterial fatty acid against Staphylococcus aureus by Bifidobacterium strains
Authors: Kikukawa Hiroshi , Nagao Toshihiro , Ota Mitsuki , Takashima Shigeo , Kitaguchi Kohji , Yanase Emiko , Maeda Sadatoshi , Hara Kiyotaka Y.
Published: February 2023

Aims: C16 monounsaturated fatty acid (C16:1) show antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogen associated with various diseases such as atopic dermatitis and bacteremia, while the compound does not exhibit antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, an epidermal commensal that inhibits the growth of S. aureus. In this study, we aimed to find bifidobacterial strains with the ability to produce C16:1 and to find a practical manner to utilize C16:1-producing strains in industry. Methods: Various Bifidobacterium strains were screened for their content of C16:1. The chemical identity of C16:1 produced by a selected strain was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Medium components that affect the C16:1 content of the selected strain were investigated. Antibacterial activity against staphylococci was compared between the authentic C16:1 isomers and total fatty acids (TFA) extracted from the selected strain. Results: B. adolescentis 12451, B. adolescentis 12-111, B. boum JCM 1211, and Bifidobacterium sp. JCM 7042 showed high C16:1 content among the tested strains. TFA extracted from Bifidobacterium sp. JCM 7042 contained C16:1 at 2.3% as the fatty acid constituent (2.4 mg/L of broth). Through GC-MS and LC-MS analyses, the C16:1 synthesized by Bifidobacterium sp. JCM 7042 was identified as 7-cis-hexadecenoic acid (7-cis-C16:1). The authentic 7-cis-C16:1 showed strong and selective antibacterial activity against S. aureus, similar to 6-cis-C16:1, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of < 10 µg/mL. Components that increase C16:1 productivity were not found in the MRS and TOS media; however, Tween 80 was shown to considerably reduce the C16:1 ratio in TFA. Antibacterial activity against S. aureus was observed when the TFA extracted from Bifidobacterium sp. JCM 7042 contained high level of 7-cis-C16:1 (6.1% in TFA) but not when it contained low level of 7-cis-C16:1 (0.1% in TFA). Conclusion: The fatty acid, 7-cis-C16:1, which can selectively inhibit the S. aureus growth, is accumulated in TFA of several bifidobacteria. The TFA extracted from cultured cells of Bifidobacterium sp. JCM 7042 demonstrated antibacterial activity. From a practical viewpoint, our findings are important for developing an efficient method to produce novel skin care cosmetics, functional dairy foods, and other commodities.
Christianization as a Challenge for Islamic Daʿwah in Indonesia
Authors: Hamid Abdul , Shalih Muhammad Utsman , Uyuni Badrah
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth and impact of Christianity as a missionary religion on the Islamic da'wah in Indonesia, where the Muslim community has a long history of resistance to colonialization, which was initiated by the Christian community. Furthermore, a qualitative descriptive method was used with data predominantly obtained through the observation of facts in the Christianization field. In addition, the effects of Christianity on the Islamic da'wah were analyzed through a review of documentation and reference studies. The results showed that some of the methods used by Christians in spreading their religion and movements were occupation, politics, Western citizens, poverty, diseases, consciousness weakness, self-preparation, Muslims' indulgence, financial guarantees, Laziness in teachings, preparing the missionaries, and brainwashing. By utilizing these methods, Christians often proclaimed their denomination and congregation, ultimately leading to various community conflicts. The findings suggest the need for a healthy and productive dialogue from a new perspective to resolve conflicts, promote harmony, and create a fairer, peaceful, and innovative civilization that views religion through spiritual perspectives.
High-Throughput IgG Epitope Mapping of Tetanus Neurotoxin: Implications for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Design
Authors: De-Simone Salvatore Giovanni , Napoleão-Pêgo Paloma , Lechuga Guilherme Curty , Carvalho Joao P.R.S. , Gomes Larissa Rodrigues , Cardoso Sergian Vianna , Morel Carlos Medicis , Provance David William , Silva Flavio Rocha
Published: February 2023

Background: Tetanus is an acute, fatal disease caused by exotoxins released from Clostridium tetani during infections. A protective humoral immune response can be induced by vaccinations with pediatric and booster combinatorial vaccines that contain inactivated tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT) as a major antigen. Although some epitopes in NeNT have been described using various ap-proaches, a comprehensive list of its antigenic determinants that are involved with immunity have not been elucidated. To that end, a high resolution analysis of the linear B-cell epitopes in NeNT was performed using antibodies generated in vaccinated children. Methods: Two hundred sixty-four peptides that cover the entire coding sequence of TeNT protein were prepared in situ on a cellulose membrane by SPOT synthesis and probed with sera from children vaccinated (ChVS) with a triple DTP-vaccine to map continuous B-cell epitopes that were further characterized and validated by immunoassays. Results: Forty-three IgG epitopes were identified. Four (TT-215-218) were chemically synthesized as Multiple Antigen Peptides (MAPs) and used in peptide ELISAs to screen post-pandemic DTP vaccinations. The assay displayed a high performance with high sensitivity (99.99%) and specificity (100%). Conclusions: The complete map of linear IgG epitopes induced by vaccination with inactivated TeNT highlights three key epitopes involved in the ef-ficacy of the vaccine. Antibodies against epitope TT-8/G can block enzymatic activity, and those against epitopes TT-40/G and TT-42/G can interfere with TeNT binding to neuronal cell receptors. We further show that four of the epitopes identified can be employed in peptide ELISAs to assess vaccine coverage. Overall, the data suggest a set of select epitopes to engineer new, directed vaccines
Intraoperative Beat-to-Beat Pulse Transit Time (PTT) Monitoring via Non-invasive Piezoelectric/Piezocapacitive Peripheral Sensors Can Predict Changes in Invasively Acquired Blood Pressure in High-Risk Surgical Patients
Authors: Nordine M , Pille M , Kraemer J , Berger C , Brandhorst P , Kaeferstein P , Kopetsch R , Wessel N , Trauzeddel R , Treskatsch S
Published: February 2023

Abstract: Background: Non-invasive acquistion of beat-to-beat pulse transit time (PTT) via piezoelectric/piezocapacitive sensors (PES/PCS) may expand perioperative hemodynamic monitoring. This study evaluated the ability for PTT via PES/PCS to correlate with systolic, diastolic, and mean invasive blood pressure (SBPIBP, DBPIBP, and MAPIBP) and to detect SBPIBP fluctuations. Methods: PES/PCS and IBP measurements were performed in 20 patients undergoing abdominal, urological, and cardiac surgery. A Pearson’s correlation analysis (r) between 1/PTT and IBP was performed. The predictive ability of 1/PTT with changes in SBPIBP was determined by area under the curve (reported as AUC, sensitivity, specificity). Results: Significant correlations between 1/PTT and SBPIBP were found for PES (r=0.64) and PCS (r=0.55) (p<0.01), as well as MAPIBP/DBPIBP for PES (r=0.6/0.55) and PCS (r=0.5/0.45) (p<0.05). A 7% decrease in 1/PTTPES predicted a 30% SBPIBP decrease(0.82, 0.76, 0.76), while a 5.6% increase predicted a 30% SBPIBP increase (0.75, 0.7, 0.68). A 6.6% decrease in 1/PTTPCS detected a 30% SBPIBP decrease (0.81, 0.72, 0.8), while a 4.8% 1/PTTPCS increase detected a 30% SBPIBP increase (0.73, 0.64, 0.68). Conclusions: Non-invasive beat-to-beat PTT via PES/PCS demonstrated significant correlations with IBP and detected significant changes in SBPIBP. Thus PES/PCS as a novel sensor technology may augment intraoperative hemodynamic monitoring during major surgery.
Is there a Link between the 2021 COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake in Europe and 2022 Excess All-Cause Mortality?
Authors: Aarstad Jarle , Kvitastein Olav Andreas
Published: February 2023

We primarily study a possible link between 2021 COVID-19 vaccination uptake in Europe and monthly 2022 excess all-cause mortality, i.e., mortality higher than before the pandemic. Analyses of 31 countries weighted by population size show that all-cause mortality during the first nine months of 2022 increased more the higher the 2021 vaccination uptake; a one percentage point increase in 2021 vaccination uptake was associated with a monthly mortality increase in 2022 by 0.105 percent (95% CI, 0.075-0.134). When controlling for alternative explanations, the association remained robust, and we discuss the result emphasizing causality as well as potential ecological fallacy. Also, the study shows that 2021 all-cause mortality was lower the higher the vaccination uptake, but this association became non-significant when controlling for alternative explanations.
The Utility of ChatGPT as an Example of Large Language Models in Healthcare Education, Research and Practice: Systematic Review on the Future Perspectives and Potential Limitations
Authors: Sallam Malik
Published: February 2023

An artificial intelligence (AI)-based conversational large language model (LLM) was launched in November 2022 namely, “ChatGPT”. Despite the wide array of potential applications of LLMs in healthcare education, research and practice, several valid concerns were raised. The current systematic review aimed to investigate the possible utility of ChatGPT and to highlight its limitations in healthcare education, research and practice. Using the PRIMSA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted to retrieve English records in PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar under the term “ChatGPT”. Eligibility criteria included the published research or preprints of any type that discussed ChatGPT in the context of healthcare education, research and practice. A total of 280 records were identified, and following full screening, a total of 60 records were eligible for inclusion. Benefits/applications of ChatGPT were cited in 51/60 (85.0%) records with the most common being the utility in scientific writing followed by benefits in healthcare research (efficient analysis of massive datasets, code generation and rapid concise literature reviews besides utility in drug discovery and development). Benefits in healthcare practice included cost saving, documentation, personalized medicine and improved health literacy. Concerns/possible risks of ChatGPT use were expressed in 58/60 (96.7%) records with the most common being the ethical issues including the risk of bias, plagiarism, copyright issues, transparency issues, legal issues, lack of originality, incorrect responses, limited knowledge, and inaccurate citations. Despite the promising applications of ChatGPT which can result in paradigm shifts in healthcare education, research and practice, the embrace of this application should be done with extreme caution. Specific applications of ChatGPT in health education include the promising utility in personalized learning tools and shift towards more focus on critical thinking and problem-based learning. In healthcare practice, ChatGPT can be valuable for streamlining the workflow and refining personalized medicine. Saving time for the focus on experimental design and enhancing research equity and versatility are the benefits in scientific research. Regarding authorship in scientific articles, as it currently stands, ChatGPT does not qualify to be listed as an author unless the ICJME/COPE guidelines are revised and amended. An initiative involving all stakeholders involved in healthcare education, research and practice is urgently needed to set a code of ethics and conduct on the responsible practices involving ChatGPT among other LLMs.
From Deficit to Strength-Based Aboriginal Health Research – Learning from those Who Flourish
Authors: Bullen Jonathan , Hill-Wall Trish , Anderson Kate , Brown Alex , Bracknell Clint , Newnham Elizabeth A. , Garvey Gail , Waters Lea
Published: February 2023

Aboriginal Australians have a fundamental human right to opportunities that lead to healthy and flourishing lives. While the impact of trauma on Aboriginal Australians is well-documented, a pervasive deficit narrative that focuses on problems and pathology persists in research and policy discourse. This narrative risks further exacerbating Aboriginal disadvantage, through a focus on ‘fixing what is wrong’ with Aboriginal Australians, and the internalising of these narratives by Aboriginal Australians. While a growing body of research adopts strength-based models, limited research has sought to explore Aboriginal flourishing. This conceptual paper seeks to contribute to a burgeoning paradigm shift in Aboriginal research, seeking to understand what can be learned from Aboriginal people who flourish, how we best determine this, and in what contexts this can be impactful. Within, we argue the case for a new approach to exploring Aboriginal wellbeing that integrates salutogenic, positive psychology concepts with complex systems theory to understand and promote Aboriginal wellbeing and flourishing, While deeper work may be required to establish the parameters of a strength-based, culturally aligned Aboriginal conceptualisation of positive psychology, we suggest the integration of Aboriginal and Western methodologies offer unique and potent means of shifting the dial on seemingly intractable problems.
Characterization of Spatial Heterogeneity in Metastasized Colorectal Cancer by MALDI Imaging
Authors: Moritz Lennart , Stillger Maren Nicole , Takács Ferenc , Füllgraf Hannah , Werner Martin , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Jud Andreas , Schilling Oliver , Föll Melanie Christine
Published: February 2023

About 50% of colorectal cancer patients develop liver metastases. Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer have 5-year survival rates below 20% despite new therapeutic regimens. Tumor heterogeneity has been linked with poor treatment response and clinical outcome, but was so far mainly studied via bulk genomic analyses. In this study we performed spatial proteomics via MALDI mass spectrometry imaging on six patient-matched CRC primary tumor and liver metastases to characterize interpatient, intertumor and intratumor hetereogeneity. We found several peptide features that were enriched in vital tumor areas of primary tumors and liver metastasis and tentatively derived from tumor cell specific proteins such as annexin A4 and prelamin A/C. Liver metastases of colorectal cancer showed higher heterogeneity between patients than primary tumors while within patients both entities show similar intratumor heterogeneity sometimes organized in zonal pattern. Together our findings give new insights into the spatial proteomic heterogeneity of primary CRC and patient-matched liver metastases.
Detection of Meteoritic Amino Acids in Extremely Small Sample Sizes: Implications for Sample Return Missions
Authors: Potiszil Christian , Yamanaka Masahiro , Ota Tsutomu , Tanaka Ryoji , Kobayashi Katsura , Nakamura Eizo
Published: February 2023

Unmetamorphosed carbonaceous chondrites provide important information concerning the formation and evolution of organic matter, such as amino acids. However, terrestrial contamination remains a valid concern when investigating the organic inventory of meteorites that have fallen to Earth. Accordingly, JAXA’s Hayabusa2 and NASA’s OSIRIS-REx have been launched with the task of returning uncontaminated C-type asteroid material to Earth. The successful Hayabusa2 mission has a very limited sample size (5.4 g). Therefore, many conventional compound specific techniques will struggle to detect amino acids above detection limit with available sample amounts (~several mg to 10’s of mg) being much smaller than those typically used. Here a novel method utilizing ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-Orbitrap-mass spectrometry is validated and applied to very small meteorite samples, thus providing an approach that can overcome the small sample size constraints of sample return missions. The method is highly sensitive, enabling the detection of amino acids in the carbonaceous chondrites Murchison (2.28 mg) and Orgueil (2.30 mg). Furthermore, quantitation was possible for many of the detected amino acids in Murchison and Orgueil. Using the data presented here, both the amino acid reservoirs of Murchison and Orgueil and the potential application of this method to sample return samples are discussed.
An Interrupted Time Series Analysis Measuring the Impact of Research and Education on Clinical Practice
Authors: Maletis Gregory B. , Prentice Heather A. , Wyatt Ronald W.B. , Paxton Elizabeth W. , Funahashi Tadashi T.
Published: February 2023

Background:

We sought to evaluate whether allograft utilization for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) within our health-care system changed following the implementation of an allograft reduction intervention and whether revision rates within the health-care system changed following the initiation of the intervention.

Methods:

We conducted an interrupted time series study using data from Kaiser Permanente’s ACL Reconstruction Registry. In our study, we identified 11,808 patients who were ≤21 years of age and underwent primary ACLR from January 1, 2007, through December 31, 2017. The pre-intervention period (15 quarters) was January 1, 2007, through September 30, 2010, and the post-intervention period (29 quarters) was October 1, 2010, through December 31, 2017. Poisson regression was used to evaluate trends over time in 2-year revision rates according to the quarter in which the primary ACLR was performed.

Results:

Allograft utilization increased pre-intervention from 21.0% in 2007 Q1 to 24.8% in 2010 Q3. Utilization decreased post-intervention from 29.7% in 2010 Q4 to 2.4% in 2017 Q4. The quarterly 2-year revision rate increased from 3.0 to 7.4 revisions per 100 ACLRs pre-intervention and decreased to 4.1 revisions per 100 ACLRs by the end of the post-intervention period. Poisson regression found an increasing 2-year revision rate over time pre-intervention (rate ratio [RR], 1.03 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.00 to 1.06] per quarter) and a decreasing rate over time post-intervention (RR, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.92 to 0.99]).

Conclusions:

In our health-care system, we saw a decrease in allograft utilization following the implementation of an allograft reduction program. During the same period, a decrease in the ACLR revision rate was observed.

Level of Evidence:

TherapeuticLevel IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The Effect of Gracilaria verrucosa Seaweed Flour Proportion with White Glutinous Rice Flour (Oryza sativa Glutinosa) and CMC (Carboxy Methyl Cellulose) Concentration on Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Seaweed Dodol
Authors: Elfahira Dieo Riezma , Hudi Lukman , Nurbaya Syarifa Ramadhani
Published: February 2023

This study used a factorial randomized block design. The first factor is the proportion of Gracilaria verrucosa seaweed flour with white glutinous rice flour (P): (P1) 75%:25%, (P2) 50%:50%, and (P3)25%:75%, the second factor is concentration of CMC (K): (K1) 2%, (K2) 4%, and (K3) 6%. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance, followed by the BNJ test (Honest Significant Difference) at 5% level, and the organoleptic test was analyzed using the Friedman test. The best treatment was obtained in the P3K3 treatment (proportion of Gracilaria verrucosa seaweed flour with white glutinous rice flour 75%: 25% and CMC concentration 6%) with color L (lightness) 43.1; *a (redness) 4.9; *b (yellowness) 10.6; 1.66N texture; water content 37.40%; free fatty acid content of 0.28%; reducing sugar content 0.4%; and antioxidant activity 368.6 μg/ml.
Canteen Food Waste Reduction Strategies Using the Life Cycle Assessment Method
Authors: Ichwan Fajar Mochammad , Cahyana Atikha Sidhi
Published: February 2023

Food waste is a global issue which is currently the center of attention of the world community. Starting from developing countries to developed countries trying to solve the problem of food waste that occurs in the country. As is well known, the amount of food waste or food waste is increasing every day, both from industry and households or restaurants, in Sidoarjo alone can produce as much as 2,400 tons of waste per day with 116 TPSTs, which can only manage 600 tons of waste per day. well managed. Part of the waste consists of leftover food and vegetables from restaurant and industrial including wastefood waste ,from a company canteen. For large companies with thousands of employees, food scraps will definitely pile up every day. Therefore, this study aims to find a strategy to reduce food waste in the company canteen. In order to produce output that is in line with expectations, it must be used an appropriate method. The method used in this research is the LCA (Method life Cycle Assessment)which can help to solve problems, find the cause and effect of the main problem widely. LCA is a method used to analyze potential environmental impacts arising from an activity, by reducing the use of raw materials and transportation, implementing pollution control, reducing environmental emissions and utilizing waste. In this research, the result is Waste percentage is the percent of product loss caused in cooking, trimming, portioning or cleaning. With the normal limit of the waste percentage generated by a restaurant or canteen is 37-41%, PT. ECCO is still on the normal threshold with a percentage of 39%.
Analysis of Work System Design to Increase Production Productivity Using the MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique) Method (Case Study of PT. Segar Murni Utama)
Authors: Dewantara Ifan Wahyu Pranata , Putra Boy Isma
Published: February 2023

PT. Segar Murni Utama is a company engaged in the mineral water industry, especially the production of MOJO TRAS demineralized water. PT. Segar Murni Utama introduces demineralized water products widely and is marketed among the general public to meet the needs of the community. This company prioritizes the quality of demineralized water very well.The purpose of this study was to optimize the production operator time for the cup section and optimize the packing process time for the cup section using the MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence of Technique) method. MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Tecnique) is one of several ways of timing sub-operations or movements. The BEST method includes basic sort patterns.The results of this study in the cup production operator section showed that the right hand and left hand maps were known to have 8 activities, and 8 activities on the process flow map. The total time is 1410, the normal time (WN) is 0.85 minutes, the standard time (WS) is 0.017 hours, the standard output (OS) is 59 cartons/hour, and the final calculation result is 413 cartons/day. While the results of improvements in the packing cup section obtained the following results: Right hand and left hand maps are known to have 11 activities, and 11 activities on the process flow map. The total time is 2110, the normal time (WN) is 1.26 minutes, the standard time (WS) is 0.023 hours, the standard output (OS) is 43 cartons/hour, and the final calculation result is 301 cartons/day.
Final Amalgamation Processes of the Southern Altaids: Insights from the Triassic Houhongquan Ophiolitic Mélange in the Beishan Orogen (NW China)
Authors: Mao Qigui , Xiao Wenjiao , Ao Songjian , Song Dongfang , Sang Miao , Tan Zhou , Wang Hao , Li Rui , Wang Meng
Published: February 2023

The Permian–Triassic tectonic setting is still controversial in the southern Altaids. The Beishan orogen is an ideal region to address the final tectonic of the Altaids. These systematic mapping, geochemistry, and geochronology studies on the Houhongquan ophiolitic mélange in the south Beishan are conducted to address this issue. New mapping reveals that the Houhongquan ophiolitic mélange consists of blocks of gabbro, basalt, chert, granite, and strongly deformed and cleaved sandstone in the southern Beishan. The studies reveal that the mafic fragments are relics of normal-mid-ocean ridge (N-MOR) and suprasubduction zone (SSZ) types of oceanic lithosphere. The four sandstone matrix samples yield the maximum depositional ages of 222±5 Ma, 233.8±2.3 Ma, 263.4±2.5 Ma, and 263.5±2.8 Ma, respectively, indicating that the youngest sandstones were tectonic emplaced in the Houhongquan ophiolitic mélange after ca. 222 Ma. The sandstone matrices display two types of age spectra. Early Permian sandstones have a single Devonian to Early Permian peak age patterns, indicating the existence of an independent Permian intraoceanic arc. In contrast, Late Triassic sandstones have multiple peaks with some Precambrian zircons, suggesting that they were sourced from a continental arc. Accordingly, we consider that the Houhongquan ophiolitic mélange tectonic was emplaced in the intraoceanic island arc during the Middle Permian and docked to a continental margin arc during the Late Triassic. Thus, we argue that the terminal amalgamation timing of the southern Altaids was probably during ca. 222-217 Ma.
PDE4DIP contributes to colorectal cancer growth and chemoresistance through modulation of the NF1/RAS signaling axis
Authors: Pan Rulu , Dai Juji , Liang Weicheng , Wang Hongxiao , Ye Lin , Ye Siqi , Lin Ziqi , Huang Shishun , Xiong Yan , Zhang Li , Lu Liting , Wang Ouchen , Shen Xian , Liao Wanqin , Lu Xincheng
Published: February 2023

Phosphodiesterase 4D interacting protein (PDE4DIP) is a centrosome/Golgi protein associated with cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases. PDE4DIP is commonly mutated in human cancers, and its alteration in mice leads to a predisposition to intestinal cancer. However, the biological function of PDE4DIP in human cancer remains obscure. Here, we report for the first time the oncogenic role of PDE4DIP in colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and adaptive MEK inhibitor (MEKi) resistance. We show that the expression of PDE4DIP is upregulated in CRC tissues and associated with the clinical characteristics and poor prognosis of CRC patients. Knockdown of PDE4DIP impairs the growth of KRAS-mutant CRC cells by inhibiting the core RAS signaling pathway. PDE4DIP plays an essential role in the full activation of oncogenic RAS/ERK signaling by suppressing the expression of the RAS GTPase-activating protein (RasGAP) neurofibromin (NF1). Mechanistically, PDE4DIP promotes the recruitment of PLCγ/PKCε to the Golgi apparatus, leading to constitutive activation of PKCε, which triggers the degradation of NF1. Upregulation of PDE4DIP results in adaptive MEKi resistance in KRAS-mutant CRC by reactivating the RAS/ERK pathway. Our work reveals a novel functional link between PDE4DIP and NF1/RAS signal transduction and suggests that targeting PDE4DIP is a promising therapeutic strategy for KRAS-mutant CRC.