bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Post-Acute COVID-19 Sequalae and Average Time to Diagnosis Among Persons Living With HIV
Authors: Muthuka John , Nyamai Everlyn , Onyango Christopher , Oluoch Kelly , Nabaweesi Rosemary
Published: August 2023

Aims: The aims of this meta-analysis were to assess: the prevalence of Post-Acute COVID-19 sequalae in HIV positive patients; average time of diagnosis; and meta-regress for possible moderators of PACS.Methods: A standard search strategy was used in PubMed, and then later modified according to each specific database to get the best relevant results. These included Medline indexed journals; PubMed Central; NCBI Bookshelf and publishers' Web sites in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. Search terms included “long COVID-19 or post-acute COVID-19 syndrome/sequalae”, “persons living with HIV or HIV. The criteria for inclusion were published clinical articles reporting HIV in association with long COVID-19, further, the average time to an event of post-acute COVID-19 sequelae among primary infected patients with COVID-19. Random-effects model was used. Rank Correlation and Egger's tests were used to ascertain publication bias. Sub-group, sensitivity and meta-regression analysis were conducted. A 95% confidence intervals were presented and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Review Manager 5.4 and comprehensive meta-analysis version 4 (CMA V4) were used for the analysis. The review/trial was PROSPERO registered (CRD42022328509).Results: A total of 43 studies reported post-acute COVID-19 syndrome. Of those, five reported post-acute COVID-19 sequalae in PLHIV. Prevalence of post-acute COVID-19 sequalae was 43.1% (95% CI 20.5% to 68.9%) in persons living with HIV (PLWH). The average time to PACS diagnosis was 4 months at 64% [0.64 (95% CI 0.230, 0.913) (P < 0.0000), I2= 93%] and at one year to PACS diagnosis was at 70 %, however with non-significant correlation (P > 0.05). On comorbidities, asthenia was associated with PACS at 17.6 % [0.176 (95% CI 0.067, 0.385) (P = 0.008), I2= 86%] while fatigue at 82%, however not related with PACS event incidence (P < 0.05). Americas, Asian and European regions showed PACS events rates of 82%, 43% and 19 % respectively (P<0.05) relative to HIV infection. Conclusion: PACS prevalence in PLWH was 43% occurring at an average time of 4 months at 64% and 70 % at 12 months however non-significant with PACS. Asthenia was significantly associated with PACS at 17.6 % while fatigue at 82%, however not related with PACS event incidence. Americas recorded the highest PACS event rates in PLWH.
Transportation Disaster Trends and Impacts in Western Asia: A Comprehensive Analysis from 2003 to 2023
Authors: Mani Zakaria A , Goniewicz Krzysztof
Published: August 2023

Investigating transportation disasters in Western Asia over two decades (2003-2023), this study provides a meticulous examination of a comprehensive dataset, shedding light on the dynamics and nuances of these catastrophic events in terms of frequency, modality (air, rail, road, and water), and subsequent outcomes. The data reveals a concerning uptrend in mishaps from 2003 to 2010, which fortunately reverses into a notable decline in the subsequent years. Noteworthy is the predominance of road-related incidents, yet an alarming 73.8% of events are ambiguously categorized under "Unknown", hinting at potential gaps or inconsistencies in record-keeping. With Turkey being a significant epicenter, accounting for nearly 45% of all incidents, the regional distribution of these disasters becomes evident. Advanced ANOVA analyses discern marked variations in fatality rates over the years and between nations. However, the contrast in injury rates among different disaster categories did not achieve statistical significance. While the post-2010 era showcases a commendable reduction in calamities, the data punctuates the persistent necessity for robust safety measures, targeted public awareness campaigns, and infrastructural advancements. In synthesis, this study vehemently advocates for heightened regional collaboration and systematic knowledge dissemination as cornerstones for bolstering transportation safety across Western Asia.
Weak Adoption and Performance of Hepatitis B Birth-dose Vaccination Programs in Africa: Time to Consider Systems Complexity? – A Scoping Review
Authors: Solomon-Rakiep Tasneem , Olivier Jill , Amponsah-Dacosta Edina
Published: August 2023

The persistent burden of chronic hepatitis B among ≤5-year-old children in Africa suggests missed opportunities for controlling mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This scoping review maps the evidence base on the risk of HBV MTCT, the status of HBV MTCT mitigation strategies including hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination, and the role of systems complexity on the suboptimal adoption and performance of hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination programs in Africa. Overall, 88 peer-reviewed and grey literature sources published between 2000–2022 were included in this review. The evidence base consistently argues for a growing risk of HBV MTCT amidst the HIV co-epidemic in the region. Without universal HBV screening programs integrated within broader antenatal care services, current selective hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination is unlikely to effectively interrupt HBV MTCT. We underscore critical health systems-related barriers to universal adoption and optimal performance of hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination programs in the region. To better conceptualize the role of complexity and system-wide effects on the observed performance of the program, we propose an adapted systems-based logic model. Ultimately, exploring contextualized complex systems approaches to scaling-up universal hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination programs should form an integral part of the regional research agenda.
Designing Biomimetic Conductive Gelatin-Chitosan–Carbon Black Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Dey Kamol , Sandrini Emanuel , Gobetti Anna , Ramorino Giorgio , Sartore Luciana
Published: August 2023

Conductive nanocomposites play a significant role in tissue engineering by providing a platform to support cell growth, tissue regeneration, and electrical stimulation. In this present study, a set of electroconductive nanocomposite hydrogels based on gelatin (G), chitosan (CH) and conductive carbon black (CB) was synthesized with the aim to develop novel biomaterials for tissue regeneration application. Incorporation of conductive carbon black (10, 15 and 20 wt %) significantly improved electrical conductivity and enhanced mechanical properties with the increased CB content. We employed an oversimplified unidirectional freezing technique to impart anisotropic morphology with interconnected porous architecture. An investigation into whether any anisotropic morphology affects the mechanical properties of hydrogel was conducted by performing compression and cyclic compression tests in each direction parallel and perpendicular to macroporous channels. Interestingly, nanocomposite with 10 % CB produced both anisotropic morphology and mechanical property, whereas anisotropic pore morphology diminished at higher CB concentration (15 and 20 %) imparting denser texture. Collectively, the nanocomposite hydrogels showed great structural stability as well as good mechanical stability and reversibility. Under repeated compressive cyclic at 50 % deformation, the nanocomposite hydrogels showed preconditioning, characteristic hysteresis, nonlinear elasticity, and toughness. Overall, the collective mechanical behavior resembled the mechanics of soft tissues. Electrical impedance associated to the hydrogels was studied in terms of modulus and phase in dry and wet condition. The electrical properties conducted in wet conditions, which is more physiologically relevant, showed low impedance at high frequencies due to capacitive currents. Overall, impedance of the nanocomposite hydrogels decreased with increased CB concentrations. These gelatin-chitosan–carbon black nanocomposite hydrogels show great promise for use as conducting substrates for the growth of electro-responsive cells in tissue engineering.
Structural Damage Detection Technique of Secondary Building Components using Piezoelectric Sensor
Authors: Suzuki Atsushi , Liao Wang , Shibata Daiki , Yoshino Yuki , Kimura Yoshihiro , Shimoi Nobuyoshi
Published: August 2023

With demand for the long-term continued use of existing building facilities, structural health monitoring and damage detection are attracting interest from society. Sensors of various types have been practically applied in the industry to satisfy this need. Among the sensors, piezoelectric sensors are an extremely promising technology by virtue of their cost advantages and durability. Although they have been used in aerospace and civil engineering, their application for building engineering remains limited. Remarkably, recent catastrophic seismic events have further rein-forced the necessity of rapid damage detection and quick judgment about the safe use of facilities. Faced with these circumstances, this study was conducted to assess the applicability of piezoelectric sensors to evaluate building components. Specifically, this study emphasizes structural damage caused by earthquakes. After first applying to cyclic loading tests to composite beam component specimens and steel frame subassemblies with a folded roof plate, the prospective damage posi-tions were also found using finite element analysis. Crack propagation and buckling locations were predicted adequately. The piezoelectric sensors provided output when the concrete slab showed tensile cracks, or when the folded roof plate experienced local buckling. Furthermore, damage expansion and progression were detected multiple times during loading tests. Results showed that the piezoelectric sensors can detect structural damage of building components, demonstrating their potential for use in inexpensive and stable monitoring systems.
Impacto do confinamento nos estilos de vida de crianças e adolescentes do norte de Portugal
Authors:   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto, Martins Juliana , Teixeira Beatriz ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,   EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto,   Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, MPM Oliveira Bruno ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,   LIAAD-INESC TEC, Afonso Cláudia ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,   EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto,   Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto
Published: August 2023

A escola desempenha um papel essencial na promoção de estilos de vida e hábitos alimentares saudáveis. Com o encerramento destes estabelecimentos, devido ao 2.º confinamento imposto pela pandemia COVID-19, tornou-se pertinente avaliar o seu impacto nos estilos de vida das crianças/adolescentes e estudar os respetivos fatores associados. Aplicou-se um questionário online (aos encarregados de educação dos alunos da Educação Pré-Escolar/1.º Ciclo e aos alunos do 2.º/3.º Ciclo) recolhendo informação sociodemográfica, antropométrica, de estado da saúde, estilos de vida e respetivas alterações provocadas pelo 2.º confinamento. Recorreu-se à UniANCOVA para identificar os fatores associados às alterações encontradas. Este estudo realizou-se num Agrupamento de Escolas do Norte de Portugal em 494 alunos (idade média de 11 anos, variando entre os 3 e os 16 anos, 51,0% sexo feminino, 49,2% 3.º Ciclo, 35,2% excesso de peso). Do total, 57,0% cumpre as recomendações das horas de sono, 24,0% do tempo de atividade física e 31,4% de tempo de ecrã. Mais de 70,0% dos alunos incluiu alimentos não recomendáveis aos lanches e ao jantar. Devido ao confinamento, 93,0% relatou pelo menos uma alteração negativa, sendo a mais frequente o aumento do tempo de ecrã diário (63,8%). A alteração positiva mais relatada foi a realização de mais refeições em família (66,5%). Os inquiridos que reportaram uma melhor autoperceção da sua alimentação foram os que tiveram mais alterações positivas dos estilos de vida devido à pandemia. Por outro lado, estar entre o percentil 15 e 85 de Índice de Massa Corporal associou-se a mais alterações negativas.
NAMPT-Improved Mitochondrial Function Alleviates Degenerative Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy in Aged Mice
Authors: Zhang Yao , Lu Shuai , Yu Gang , Wang Chongyang , Zhao Qichun
Published: August 2023

Background:

Age-related rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT) is associated with increased rotator cuff tear and postoperative retear rates. This study aimed to determine whether nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) can alleviate degenerative RCT and prevent postoperative retears by reversing mitochondrial dysfunction in aged mice.

Methods:

We assigned 32 young (4 months) and 64 aged (19 to 20 months) male wild-type C57BL/6 mice to young, aged, and aged NAMPT-treated (ANAMPT) groups (n = 32 each). Mice in the ANAMPT group underwent subacromial injection with NAMPT-loaded fibrin gel, whereas the other 2 groups were injected with fibrin gel alone. Histological staining and each of the biomechanical and mitochondrial function tests were performed using 8 samples each.

Results:

Histological staining in the aged group revealed decreased cellularity, disrupted fiber architecture, and reduced type-I collagen content inside tendon tissues proximal to the enthesis, demonstrating the spontaneous development of age-related degenerative RCT. Compared with the young group, the maximum tendon-to-bone failure load (4.22 ± 0.81 versus 5.52 ± 0.81 N, p = 0.0106) and maximum suture cut-through force (0.83 ± 0.08 versus 1.07 ± 0.10 N, p = 0.0006) of degenerated tendon tissues in the aged group were significantly lower. Significantly reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and citrate synthase activity indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction was closely related to the development of the degenerative RCT. Furthermore, NAMPT-improved mitochondrial function alleviated age-induced degenerative histological changes and increased the maximum failure load (5.32 ± 0.68 N, p = 0.0375) and maximum suture cut-through force (0.99 ± 0.13 N, p = 0.0285).

Conclusions:

Spontaneously developed degenerative RCT in aged mice mimicked the clinical situation in elderly patients. NAMPT-improved mitochondrial function could alleviate age-induced degenerative RCT and prevent postoperative suture cut-through of tendons with degenerative RCT.

Clinical Relevance:

This study confirmed the spontaneous development of degenerative RCT in aged mice, which will facilitate future studies of this condition. The results also suggest that NAMPT offers a novel therapeutic approach for treating age-related degenerative RCT.
Delays in Debridement of Open Femoral and Tibial Fractures Increase Risk of Infection
Authors: Cortez Abigail , Urva Mayur , Subramanian Aditya , Jackson Nicholas J. , Zirkle Lewis , Morshed Saam , Shearer David W.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Infection remains a costly, devastating complication following the treatment of open fractures. The appropriate timing of debridement is controversial, and available evidence has been conflicting.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective analysis of the SIGN (Surgical Implant Generation Network) Surgical Database (SSDB), a prospective registry of fracture cases in predominantly low-resource settings. Skeletally mature patients (≥16 years of age) who returned for follow-up at any time point after intramedullary nailing of an open femoral or tibial fracture were included. Patients were excluded if they had delays in debridement exceeding 7 days after the injury. Utilizing a model adjusting for potential confounders, including patient demographic characteristics, injury characteristics, country income level, and hospital type and resources, local logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the probability of infection with increasing time to debridement in 6-hour increments.

Results:

In this study, 27.3% of patients met the eligibility criteria and returned for follow-up, with a total of 10,651 fractures from 61 countries included. Overall, the probability of infection increased by 0.17% for every 6-hour delay in debridement. On subgroup analysis, the probability of infection increased by 0.23% every 6 hours for Gustilo-Anderson type-III injuries compared with 0.13% for Gustilo-Anderson type-I or II injuries. The infection risk increased every 6 hours by 0.18% for tibial fractures compared with 0.13% for femoral fractures.

Conclusions:

There was a linear and cumulative increased risk of infection with delays in debridement for open femoral and tibial fractures. Such injuries should be debrided promptly and expeditiously. The size and international nature of this cohort make these findings uniquely generalizable to nearly all environments where such injuries are treated.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Ankle Joint Bone Density Distribution Correlates with Overall 3-Dimensional Foot and Ankle Alignment
Authors: Lintz François , Bernasconi Alessio , Buedts Kristian , Welck Matthew , Ellis Scott , de Cesar Netto Cesar
Published: August 2023

Background:

Altered stress distribution in the lower limb may impact bone mineral density (BMD) in the ankle bones. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the spatial distribution of BMD with use of weight-bearing cone-beam computed tomography (WBCT). Our hypothesis was that BMD distribution would be even in normal hindfeet, increased medially in varus hindfeet, and increased laterally in valgus hindfeet.

Methods:

In this study, 27 normally aligned hindfeet were retrospectively compared with 27 valgus and 27 varus-aligned hindfeet. Age (p = 0.967), body mass index (p = 0.669), sex (p = 0.820), and side (p = 0.708) were similar in the 3 groups. Hindfoot alignment was quantified on the basis of WBCT data sets with use of multiple measurements. BMD was calculated with use of the mean Hounsfield unit (HU) value as a surrogate. The HU medial-to-lateral ratio (HUR), calculated from tibial and talar medial and lateral half-volumes, was the primary outcome of the study.

Results:

The 3 groups significantly differed (p < 0.001) in terms of tibial HUR (median, 0.91 [interquartile range (IQR), 0.75 to 0.98] in valgus hindfeet, 1 [IQR, 0.94 to 1.05] in normal hindfeet, and 1.04 [IQR, 0.99 to 1.1] in varus hindfeet) and talar HUR (0.74 [IQR, 0.50 to 0.80] in valgus hindfeet, 0.82 [IQR, 0.76 to 0.87] in normal hindfeet, and 0.92 [IQR, 0.86 to 1.05] in varus hindfeet). Linear regression showed that all hindfoot measurements significantly correlated with tibial and talar HUR (p < 0.001 for all). The mean HU values for normally-aligned hindfeet were 495.2 ± 110 (medial tibia), 495.6 ± 108.1 (lateral tibia), 368.9 ± 80.3 (medial talus), 448.2 ± 90.6 (lateral talus), and 686.7 ± 120.4 (fibula). The mean HU value for each compartment was not significantly different across groups.

Conclusions:

Hindfoot alignment and medial-to-lateral BMD distribution were correlated. In varus hindfeet, an increased HU medial-to-lateral ratio was consistent with a greater medial bone density in the tibia and talus as compared with the lateral parts of these bones. In valgus hindfeet, a decreased ratio suggested greater bone density in the lateral as compared with the medial parts of both the tibia and the talus.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Use of Femoral Head Allograft for Extended Bone Loss in Revision Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Kvarda Peter , Ruiz Roxa , Hintermann Beat
Published: August 2023

Case:

A 38-year-old male patient presented with severe ankle pain 13 years after a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Radiographic evaluation revealed loosening of the implant and extensive osteolytic lesions. The medial tibial plafond and malleolus were reconstructed using a fresh-frozen femoral head graft, and revision TAA was performed. The midterm results were satisfactory, with adequate integration of the allograft and stable implant components.

Conclusion:

The use of the allograft technique in revision TAA is feasible in the presence of severe bone loss, including the malleoli, and allows firm component fixation of the reconstructed bone.
Spontaneous Cervical Epidural Hematoma Presenting with Respiratory Failure
Authors: Ohno Hiroaki , Fujishiro Takashi , Hayama Sachio , Mizutani Masahiro , Moriuchi Hiromitsu , Fujita Akifumi , Neo Masashi
Published: August 2023

Case:

A 62-year-old woman who had an unremarkable medical history presented with sudden headache and neck pain. After the presentation, complete quadriplegia and respiratory arrest developed, and the patient was urgently intubated. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extensive epidural hematoma (EH), and emergency hematoma evacuation was performed. At the 1-year follow-up visit, the patient had no motor deficits.

Conclusion:

We reported a case of spontaneous cervical EH presenting with respiratory failure that was successfully treated with surgical management. Literature review has shown that the surgical outcome is very poor; nevertheless, prompt surgical decompression of the spinal cord can minimize neurological sequelae.
Exploring the Impact of Evaluation on Learning and Health Innovation Sustainability: Protocol for a Realist Synthesis
Authors: Bird Marissa , Côté-Boileau Élizabeth , Wodchis Walter , Jeffs Lianne , MacPhee Maura , Shaw James , Austin Tujuanna , Bruno Frances , Bhalla Megan , Gray Carolyn Steele
Published: August 2023

Background
Within the Learning Health System (LHS) model, learning routines, including evaluation, allow for continuous incremental change to take place. Within these learning routines, evaluation assists in problem identification, data collection, and data transformation into contextualized information, which is then re-applied to the LHS environment. Evaluation that catalyzes learning and improvement may also contribute to health innovation sustainability. However, there is little consensus as to why certain evaluations seem to support learning and sustainability, while others impede it. This realist synthesis seeks to understand the contextual factors and underlying mechanisms or drivers that best support health systems learning and sustainable innovation.
Methods
This synthesis will be guided by Pawson and colleagues’ 2005 and Emmel and colleagues’ 2018 guidelines for conducting realist syntheses. The review process will encompass five steps: 1. Scoping the Review, 2. Building Theories, 3. Identifying the Evidence, 4. Evidence Selection and Appraisal, and 5. Data Extraction and Synthesis. An Expert Committee comprised of leaders in evaluation, innovation, sustainability, and realist methodology will guide this synthesis. Review findings will be reported using the RAMESES guidelines.
Discussion
The use of a realist review will allow for exploration and theorizing about the contextual factors and underlying mechanisms that make evaluations ‘work’ (or ‘not work’) to support learning and sustainability. Depending on results, we will attempt to synthesize findings into a series of recommendations for evaluations with the intention to support health systems learning and sustainability. Finalized results will be presented at national and international conferences, as well as disseminated via a peer-reviewed publication.
Systematic review registration
: This realist synthesis protocol has been registered with PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ ID 382690)
Data-driven prediction of colonization outcomes for complex microbial communities
Authors: Wu Lu , Wang Xu-Wen , Tao Zining , Wang Tong , Zuo Wenlong , Zeng Yu , Liu Yang-Yu , Dai Lei
Published: August 2023

Complex microbial interactions can lead to different colonization outcomes of exogenous species, be they pathogenic or beneficial in nature. Predicting the colonization of exogenous species in complex communities remains a fundamental challenge in microbial ecology, mainly due to our limited knowledge of the diverse physical, biochemical, and ecological processes governing microbial dynamics. Here, we proposed a data-driven approach independent of any dynamics model to predict colonization outcomes of exogenous species from the baseline compositions of microbial communities. We systematically validated this approach using synthetic data, finding that machine learning models (including Random Forest and neural ODE) can predict not only the binary colonization outcome but also the post-invasion steady-state abundance of the invading species. Then we conducted colonization experiments for two commensal gut bacteria species Enterococcus faecium and Akkermansia muciniphila in hundreds of human stool-derived in vitro microbial communities, confirming that the data-driven approach can successfully predict the colonization outcomes. Furthermore, we found that while most resident species were predicted to have a weak negative impact on the colonization of exogenous species, strongly interacting species could significantly alter the colonization outcomes, e.g., the presence of Enterococcus faecalis inhibits the invasion of E. faecium. The presented results suggest that the data-driven approach is a powerful tool to inform the ecology and management of complex microbial communities.
Global Air Pollution Potential: long term (1980-2019) trends and application to sustainable development
Authors: Kannemadugu Hareef baba shaeb , Dorligjav Sandelger , Taori Alok , Bothale Rajashree Vinod , Chauhan Prakash
Published: August 2023

Air pollution potential is a measure of the inability of the atmosphere to disperse pollutants away from the source. It depends on Planetary Boundary Layer Height (PBLH) and wind speed. Global air pollution potential Index (APPI) maps have been generated for the first time using 40 years (1980–2019) of PBLH and wind speed data available from ERA5 reanalysis data. These are useful for identifying ventilation corridors and for sustainable development. The seasonal climatology of APPI is also analyzed. Long-term trends in Ventilation coefficient (VC), PBLH, Wind speed, PM2.5, and Aerosol Optical Thickness (AOT) were analyzed globally and in over 30 cities to understand their future impact on climate change scenarios. High APPI is observed in the south Asian Regions, giving rise to PM2.5 and AOT hot spots, and are naturally disadvantageous. Long-term trends in VC and associated trends in PBLH and Wind speed suggest that the PBLH is decreasing at the rate of 1–3 m per year over south Asia, and wind speed is decreasing at the rate of 0.01–0.02 m·s− 1per year, resulting in the decrease of VC of about 1–25 m2·s− 1per year. If this trend continues, South Asia will have more air pollution potential in the coming years putting health risks to 1.8 billion people. The surface PM2.5 and AOT is increasing at 0.5–1.5 µg·m− 3 per year and 0.005–0.01 per year for south Asia cities. Sustainable development goals and climate policies/negotiations should consider global air pollution potential as an essential variable in planning and mitigation.
Controlling the Photon Number Coherence of Solid-state Quantum Light Sources for Quantum Cryptography
Authors: Karli Yusuf , Vajner Daniel , Kappe Florian , Hagen Paul C. A. , Hansen Lena M. , Schwarz René , Bracht Thomas K. , Schimpf Christian , Silva Saimon Covre Da , Walther Philip , Rastelli Armando , Axt Vollrath , Loredo Juan , Remesh Vikas , Heindel Tobias , Reiter Doris , Weihs Gregor
Published: August 2023

Quantum communication networks rely on quantum cryptographic protocols including quantum key distribution (QKD) using single photons. A critical element regarding the security of QKD protocols is the photon number coherence (PNC), i.e. the phase relation between the zero and one-photon Fock state, which critically depends on the excitation scheme. Thus, to obtain flying qubits with the desired properties, optimal pumping schemes for quantum emitters need to be selected. Semiconductor quantum dots generate on-demand single photons with high purity and indistinguishability. Exploiting two-photon excitation of a quantum dot combined with a stimulation pulse, we demonstrate the generation of high-quality single photons with a controllable degree of PNC. Our approach provides a viable route toward secure communication in quantum networks.
Has ICD-10 improved identification of rapidly progressing stage 3 and stage 4 chronic kidney disease patients: A diagnostic test study
Authors: Jalal Kabir , Charest Andre , Chang Shirley , Quigg Richard , Wu Xiaoyan
Published: August 2023

Background: The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) coding system is the industry standard tool for billing, disease classification, and epidemiology purposes. Prior research has demonstrated ICD codes to have poor clinical and diagnostic accuracy, particularly in relation to chronic kidney disease (CKD). In 2016, the ICD system moved from revision 9 to revision 10. This study examines the accuracy of ICD-10 CKD-staging codes in diagnosing clinically identified CKD patients in a large insurer database.
Patients and methods: Serial observations of outpatient serum creatinine measurements collected from 2016 through 2021 of 315,903 patients were transformed to estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to identify CKD stage-3 and advanced patients diagnosed clinically (eGFR-CKD). CKD-staging codes from the same time period of 59,386 patients and used to identify stage-3 and advanced patients diagnosed by ICD-code (ICD-CKD). eGFR-CKD and ICD-CKD diagnostic accuracy was compared between a total of 334,610 patients.
Results: 34,858 patients were diagnosed as eGFR-CKD stage-3 patients, of which 17,549 were also diagnosed as ICD-CKD stage-3 patients, for a sensitivity of 50.34%, specificity of 95.88%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 58.71%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 94.32%. 4,069 patients reached eGFR-CKD stage-4 with 2,750 ICD-CKD stage-4 patients, giving a sensitivity of 67.58%, specificity of 98.87%, PPV of 42.43%, and NPV of 99.60%. 959 patients reached eGFR-CKD stage-5 with 566 ICD-CKD stage-5 patients, giving a sensitivity of 59.02%, specificity of 99.7%, PPV of 35.85%, and NPV of 99.88%.
Conclusion: This research shows that the recent ICD coding revision has offered some improvement in diagnostic accuracy, with marked increases in sensitivity for stage-3 (50.34% vs. 24.68%), and PPV in stage-3 (58.71% vs. 40.08%), stage-4 (42.43% vs. 18.52%), and stage-5 (35.85% vs. 4.51%). However, sensitivity in stage-5 compares poorly (59.02% vs. 91.05%).
Keywords: progression, CKD, ICD, sensitivity, specificity
High Temperature Resistance Pre-Oxidized Polyacrylonitrile Nanofiber Membrane for Air Filtration
Authors: Bin Yu , Xian-hua Zhang , Lina Chen , Wenying Shi
Published: August 2023

To obtain low cost, high efficiency and thermal stable fiber filter, pre-oxidized PAN (OPAN) nanofiber membrane was prepared based on PAN nanofiber membrane through thermal stabilization treatment. The morphology, air permeability, Fourier transform infrared spectrum, thermogravimetric and filtration performance of the nanofiber membrane were characterized. The results showed that reactions such as dehydrogenation, cyclization and pyrolysis occurred during the thermal stabilization of PAN, which reduced the average diameter of the nanofiber, the thickness and air permeability of the nanofiber membrane. In the same time, a trapezoidal molecular structure with excellent heat resistance was formed, which made OPAN fiber having the property of high temperature resistant. When the mass loss of the OPAN nanofiber was 5%, the corresponding temperature was as high as 398 oC. In addition, the OPAN nanofiber filter had an excellent filtration performance. For the particles with a median particle size of 0.26 µm, the filtration efficiency was up to 89.2% and the filtration resistance was only 87.4 Pa.
Impact of Delayed Cooling and Precooling Parameters on Physical Properties of Potatoes: A Storage Study
Authors: Palle Aphiya Amulya , SRIVAS PREM PRAKASH
Published: August 2023

Field Heat is one of the significant factors contributing to post-harvest losses of various agricultural produce. Precooling is necessary to counter the field heat, maintain the quality and increase the shelf life of the farm produce. Potato was chosen as it is one of the most essential staple products worldwide and can be consumed in various forms. This study was conducted to determine the impact of field heat and precooling parameters on potatoes' quality and shelf life. The study constitutes two components. The first component aims to understand the implications of field heat on the quality of the produce by gradually increasing the time delay between harvest and precooling from 0h to 64h. As the time of exposure to field heat increased, the quality of potatoes seemed to decrease gradually. The second component was conducted to understand the effect of precooling variables (Temperature & Relative Humidity) on the quality of produce by varying temperature between 6°C to 10°C and relative humidity between 87–95%. A comparison was made between precooled and not precooled potatoes to understand the effect of precooling on the overall quality of the potatoes. The residual values obtained from comparison revealed that the precooled samples had significantly less variation from fresh samples than those that were not precooled.
SCHISTOACT: A protocol for an open-label, five-arm, non-inferiority, individually randomized controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of Praziquantel plus Artemisinin-based combinations in the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni infection
Authors: Obonyo Charles Owuora , Were Vincent O , Wamae Peter , Muok Erick M.O.
Published: August 2023

Background:
Schistosomiasis control relies on praziquantel for preventive chemotherapy. Alternative drugs are needed for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis. Praziquantel is effective against adult schistosome worms but ineffective against larval stages of the parasite and cannot prevent re-infection or interrupt the transmission of infection. Continued reliance on praziquantel for wide-scale schistosomiasis control will likely accelerate the emergence of drug resistance. Artemisinin derivatives are effective against the juvenile stages but ineffective against adult worms. The SCHISTOACT study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of praziquantel plus one of four artemisinin-based combinations in treating Schistosoma mansoni infection in Kenya.
Methods:
The SCHISTOACT study is an open-label, head-to-head, five-arm, non-inferiority, individually randomized controlled trial with a follow-up of 12 weeks. A total of 540 primary school-age children from the Mwea area, Kirinyaga County in central Kenya, diagnosed with S. mansoni infection (by Kato-Katz method) are randomly allocated (1:1:1:1:1) to a single dose of praziquantel plus a 3-day course of artesunate-sulfalene/pyrimethamine; or artesunate-amodiaquine; or artesunate plus mefloquine; or dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine, or praziquantel control arm. The primary endpoints are efficacy (cure rate, assessed by microscopy) and safety (adverse events) of each study arm 6 weeks after treatment. Secondary endpoints include cumulative cure rate, egg reduction rate, and re-infection 12 weeks after treatment. The non-inferiority margin is set at -10 for the risk difference in cure rates between praziquantel and the combined treatment.
Discussion:
This study assesses a strategy for repurposing artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for treating schistosomiasis. It adopts a head-to-head comparison of four different ACTs to test a non-inferiority hypothesis to strengthen local capacity to conduct clinical trials for interventions against neglected tropical diseases.
Trial registration:
Pan-African Clinical Trials Registry: PACTR202001919442161. Retrospectively registered on 6 January 2020. https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=9591
Ventilator-associated pneumonia in Polish Intensive Care Unit dedicated to COVID-19 patients
Authors: Wałaszek Marta , Serwacki Piotr , Cholewa Zbigniew , Kosiarska Alicja , Kwapniewska Wioletta Świątek – , Kołpa Małgorza , Rafa Elżbieta , Słowik Róża , Nowak Karolina , Różańska Anna , Wójkowska-Mach Jadwiga
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) are the most often related to patients treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) might have been the reason for hospitalization in the ICU for some patients.
Methods
The study was performed in 2020 and 2021 in the hospital in the south of Poland. Healthcare-Associated Infections Surveillance Network (HAI-Net) of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) was applied for diagnosis of HAI. The aim of the study was to assess the epidemiology of HAI occurring in patients treated in the ICU with a division into COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients.
RESULTS
The study covered 416 patients hospitalised in the ICU: 125 (30%) of patients treated with COVID-19 vs 291 (70%) of non -COVID 19 patients, p < 0.05. The death rate was: 80 (64%) of patients treated with COVID-19 vs 45 (16%) of non -COVID 19 patients, p < 0.001. Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) concerned 40 cases, the incidence rate density was 6.3/1000 patientdays (pds): 14.1/1000 pds z COVID-19 vs 3.6/1000 non-COVID-19, Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.297, p < 0.01. Acinetobacter baumannii was the most often isolated microorganism in VAP; 25 (incidence rate 8.5%): 16(18.2%) with COVID-19 vs 9 (4.4%) non-COVID-19, OR = 4.814 (1.084–4.806), p < 0.001.
CONCLUSIONS
In patients treated in the ICU due to COVID-19, the risk of VAP was twofold higher than in non-COVID-19 patients. In VAP infections the most often isolated was Acinetobacter baumannii.
Plant Species Composition and Floristic Features of the National Nature Reserve in Minqin Liangucheng, Gansu
Authors: Cuiewen Tang , Yuxia Zhang , Chuanhe Zheng , Yingying Wang , Yanbin Su , Xusheng Zhang
Published: August 2023

Background
The fragile desert ecosystem of Minqin Lian Ancient City National Nature Reserve has protected some wild animal and plant resources to some extent, so the research value is very high, but there are few studies on the flora.
Results
Looking at the composition of genera and species within families, there are 23 families, 41 genera, and 65 species that are oligotypic (2–9 species) and monotypic (only 1 species), which are the main structures at the family level; there are 76 monotypic genera, which are the main components of the genus structure, accounting for 64.96% of the total genera and 32.32% of the total species; the reserve is divided into 5 types of plant life forms, with herbaceous plants being the major component, accounting for 63.13% of the total species; the reserve is dominated by xerophytic plants, which account for 57.07% of total species, and has the fewest hydrophytic plants, accounting for 9.09% of total species; the 30 families of seed plants in the reserve can be divided into 4 orthotypes and 4 variant types, with 18 families of cosmopolitan distribution, accounting for 60.00% of the total families; the genera of North Temperate type are the most, totaling 24 genera, accounting for 20.51% of the total genera, Mediterranean region and West Asia to Central Asia share 23 genera, accounting for 19.66% of the total genera, cosmopolitan distribution is 18 genera, accounting for 15.38% of the total, pan-tropical shared distribution is 12 genera, accounting for 10.26% of the total genera, and Central Asia and Eastern Central Asia distribution is 10 genera, accounting for 8.55% of the total genera.
Conclusion
To improve the relevant flora data of the reserve, to provide important basic data and scientific basis for the protection and management of Minqin Lian Ancient City Nature Reserve, and to provide a theoretical basis for the protection and restoration of the desert ecosystem in western China.
EMP3 as a prognostic biomarker correlates with EMT in GBM
Authors: Li Li , xia siyu , Zhao Zitong , Deng Lili , wang hanbing , yang dongbo , Hu Yizhou , Ji Jingjing , Huang Dayong , Xin Tao
Published: August 2023

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive malignant central nervous system tumor with a poor prognosis.The malignant transformation of glioma cells via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been observed as a main obstacle for glioblastoma treatment.Epithelial membrane protein 3 (EMP3) is significantly associated with the malignancy of GBM and the prognosis of patients. Therefore, exploring the possible mechanisms by which EMP3promotes the proliferation of GBM has important implications for the treatment of GBM.
Methods: We performed enrichment and correlation analysis in 5 single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. Differential expression of EMP3 in gliomas, Kaplan-Meier survival curves, diagnostic accuracy and prognostic prediction were analyzed by bioinformatics in the China Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. EMP3-silenced U87 and U251 cell lines were obtained by transient transfection with siRNA. The effect of EMP3 on glioblastoma proliferation was examined using the CCK-8 assay. Transwell migration assay and wound healing assay were used to assess the effect of EMP3on glioblastoma migration. Finally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction（qRT-PCR）was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of EMT-related transcription factors and mesenchymal markers.
Results: EMP3is a EMT associated gene in multiple types of malignant cancer and in high-grade glioblastoma. EMP3 is enriched in high-grade gliomas and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type gliomas.EMP3 can be used as a specific biomarker for diagnosing glioma patients. It is also an independent prognostic factor for glioma patients' overall survival (OS). In addition, silencing EMP3 reduces the proliferation, migration and invasion of glioblastoma cells. Mechanistically, EMP3 enhances the malignant potential of tumor cells by promoting EMT.
Conclusion: EMP3promotes the growth and invasion of GBM cells, and the mechanism may be related to EMP3 promoting the EMT process in GBM; EMP3 may be an independent prognostic factor in GBM.
Dementia literacy among nursing students in China: A multi-site cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Dingxin , He Jinjie , Han Lei , Luo Yan , Wang Jing , Guan Chengguo
Published: August 2023

Background China has the largest population of people living with dementia in the world. By 2050, the number in China is projected to increase to 35.98 million. Health professionals play a significant role in the continuum care of dementia and nursing students are the major group caring people living with dementia in the future. The study aimed to investigate the knowledge level of dementia of Chinese nursing students and to explore the related factors of knowledge about dementia. Findings from this study will provide evidence for the development of dementia education programs for nursing students. Methods This was a descriptive multi-site cross-sectional study. A total of 958 nursing students from 15 provinces in China participated in this study. The sample was investigated with demographic characteristics and dementia knowledge. The data of dementia knowledge were collected by using 11-item questionnaires with true or false responses. Factors correlated with dementia knowledge score were also explored. Results The mean score of Chinese nursing students’ dementia knowledge was 8.09 ± 1.44 points out of a total of 11 (73.5%). The dimension of the symptoms of dementia was scored the highest level. And nursing students scored the lowest scores on dementia treatment and care. The level of dementia knowledge was significantly associated with gender (P < 0.001), age (P = 0.03) and education (P < 0.01). For research higher degree nursing students, whether students need to publish journal articles could impact the score the dementia knowledge (P = 0.01). Conclusions The study explored the level of dementia knowledge of Chinese nursing students. Policy makers and educators should incorporate the education and clinical practice of dementia care into the curriculum of nursing students, which can improve their knowledge level of dementia.
Factors Predict the Stroke Specific Quality Of Life In Post Stroke Aphasia Patients in Pakistan
Authors: Omer Aadil , Shah Syed Tariq , Haroon Ramsha
Published: August 2023

Background: Stroke-specific quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome measure in stroke rehabilitation, reflecting the impact of stroke and its associated impairments on an individual's overall well-being and daily functioning. Understanding the factors that predict stroke specific QoL in post-stroke aphasia patients in Pakistan is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving the rehabilitation process.
Objective: to determine the factors predicted the stroke specific quality of life in post stroke aphasia patients in Pakistan.
Methodology: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 18 months from June 2021 to December 2022 at RHS Rehabilitation Centre Islamabad Pakistan. A total of n=134 independent participants with fluent and non-fluent aphasia at least six-month post stroke, and able to follow one step command were included in the study through non-probability convenient sampling technique. The stroke specific quality of life (SS-QoL) scale was used to assess the quality of life in the participants, while the list of predictors was developed from the literature. SPSS version 21 was used for statistical analysis.
Result: A multiple regression was run to predict the quality of life from marital status, gender, family status, patient's socioeconomic status, types of strokes, types of aphasia, and comorbidities. These variables statistically significantly predicted quality of life {F(13,120)=10.366, p<0.001}. All variables cause 47.8% (Adj. R2=0.478) variance in stroke specific quality of life in aphasia patients.
Conclusion: the male gender, married marital status, middle and upper socioeconomic status, ischemic stroke compared to hemorrhagic stroke, fluent aphasia, and the cardiac disease compared to other comorbidities positively affect the quality of life in post stroke aphasia patients. But age and the family system did not show any impact on the quality of life.
Response modification factor of SMA-based self-centering buckling-restrained braced frames
Authors: Hoveidae Nader , Abbasi samaneh
Published: August 2023

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) have significant efficacy in seismic resilience design due to their excellent superelasticity. The key characteristics of Nickle-Titanium (Ni-Ti) SMA include desirable fatigue and corrosion resistance and outstanding self-centering capacity, which provides the ability to undergo large deformations while reverting back to their original undeformed shape. The current numerical study presents an innovative Buckling-Restrained Brace (BRB) including a reduced-length core (HSCBRB) that is attached to a robust steel pipe. The core is laterally supported and consists of a SMA rod inserted into a steel pipe. The paper represents a detailed description of the proposed device. The research is carried out by investigating the overall behavior of the structural system as well as taking a close look at the response parameters of the system. In order to evaluate the response modification factor of the steel braced frames, static pushover, nonlinear time history, and incremental dynamic analyses are performed in the OpenSEES environment. Additionally, the fragility response curves are developed and compared. As a result, the proposed device significantly reduces the residual drift response of the steel buckling-restrained braced frames. Furthermore, an average response modification factor of 8.5 is obtained for the SMA-based self-centering buckling-restrained braced frames.