bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Histopathological Factors in the Prognosis of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma- An Ambispective Study
Authors: Nekkanti Ravi , Benakatti Rajendra
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Melanomas are the most dangerous among the different skin cancers, they can arise from a pre existing lesion or may arise de novo. Among the common skin cancers, melanoma is the most dangerous. It accounts for approximately 75% of all skin cancer-related deaths, although it comprises only 3% of all skin cancers diagnosed each year. The incidence of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma (CMM) is increasing worldwide faster than any other cancer. Aim: To study the clinical and histological factors in relation to the outcomes among patients diagnosed with the CMM in a tertiary care centre in Southern India. Materials and Methods: This ambispective study was conducted in Department of General Surgery at Shri BM Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India (tertiary care centre), from June 2001 to June 2016. A total of 87 patients, aged more than 18 years with histopathological evidence of cutaneous malignant melanoma and patients with more than 1 year of follow-up were enrolled in present study. Data obtained included sex, age at diagnosis, site over the body, histological subtype, Clark’s level, Breslow’s thickness, lymph nodal status (clinical and pathological), treatment received and status at the time of review. Descriptive statistics were presented as mean, median and standard deviation, Chi-square test was used for the analysis of qualitative variables and ‘t’ test was used for continuous variables. Results: The mean age in the present study (N=87) was 57±10 years with maximum cases 32 (36.78%) aged between 61-70 years, followed by the 22 (25.29%) case aged between 51-60 years and 18 (20.69%) aged between 41-50 years. Maximum patients, 27 (42.19%) In disease free group and 37 (57.81%) in non disease free group were aged >50 years. A total of 48 (55.17%) males patient and 39 (44.83%) females were included in present study. Out of total, 71 (81.6%) patients had primary lesion on the extremities and 16 (18.40%) patients had primary lesions on the trunk, head and neck. Ulceration was present in total 56 patients. Out of these 56 patients ulceration was present in 34 (60.71%) in non disease free group and in 22 (39.29%) in disease free group. Clark’s level was unknown for 23 patients. out of 64 patients, in disease free group, maximum patients 11 (78.57%) were in Clark’s level II, while in non disease free group maximum patients 13 (76.47%) were in Clark’s level IV followed by the 12 (63.16%) in Clark’s level III. Maximum cases 7 (63.63%) in disease free group were seen in <1 mm and 7 (41.18%) in 1.01-2 mm group. Conclusion: Significant relation between Clark’s levels and prognosis of the CMM was seen. The study also showed statistically significant association of Breslow’s thickness on prognosis. The common histologial type of malignant melanoma in the study was was nodular type.
Evaluation of CD9 Expression of Tumour Cells and Stromal Immune Cells in Breast Carcinoma by Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Lakshmi RV Sowjanya , Kumar ML Harendra , Kumar k Mohan
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Cluster of Differentiation 9 (CD9), known as Motility Related Protein (MRP-1) regulates cell adhesion, motility, migration and proliferation. Many studies have stated conflicting results on prognostic significance of invasive breast carcinomas with CD9 expression that had performed on tumour tissues. Aim: To assess the inter-relationship of CD9 expression of tumour cells and stromal immune cells in breast carcinoma with clinicopathological parameters which include age, tumour size, grade, histological type, lymph nodes, tumour staging and molecular classification. Materials and Methods: An observational prospective (2020 July to 2021 June) and retrospective (2019 October to 2020 June) study was done in 71 cases of resected primary invasive breast carcinoma over a period of one and half year at Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Karnataka, India. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was done using CD9 antibody. Tumour cells (T-CD9) expression was evaluated by Immunoreactivity scoring (IS= Intensity score × Extent of staining). The stromal cells (S-CD9) expression was evaluated by Percentage (%) of stromal area occupied by CD9 stained immune cells. Chi-square test was used as test of significance for qualitative data. The p-value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Out of 71 cases, T-CD9 expression was noticed in 40 cases (56.34%) and IS <4 considered as negative was observed in 31 cases (43.66%). However there was no association with age, tumour size, grade and molecular markers for the expression of both T-CD9 and S-CD9. Human Epidermal growth factor receptor 2 neu (HER2neu) negative was associated with T-CD9 expression (p-value=0.05). Hence CD9 can be used as prognostic marker for Her2neu negative cases. Conclusion: CD9 expression was not significantly associated with tumour cells (T-CD9) and stromal cells (S-CD9) in breast carcinoma cases. However it was significantly associated with Her2neu negative tumour cells. T-CD9 showed more positivity in Luminal A followed by Triple negative whereas S-CD9 showed more positivity in Luminal B. CD9 did not show association with any parameters except Her2neu negative.
EFFECT OF POLY-HERBAL MEDHYA RASAYANA DRUGS AND KANCHANAR GUGGULU IN THE MANAGEMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Vyas Hetal D
Published: October 2022

Hypothyroidism is a common disorder of the endocrine system in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Females have to be more affected than males. The leading cause is physical and mental stress. Physical stress relates to lifestyles such as fast food, disturbed sleep patterns and environmental risk factors. Mental stress arises from work pressure, emotional weakness, and grief from disputes. The symptoms are quite variable depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. Chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, weight gain, puffiness on the face, weakness and hoarseness of voice symptoms were found in this case study. In Investigation T3, T4 was found normal, and TSH was higher than the normal level. Ayurveda is vital in ruling out the underlying cause and treating it. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with agnimandhya, kapha - vata vriddhi, pitta kshaya and rasavaha, medovaha and manovaha srotasa dushti. In this case study, the leading cause was stress in patients. Primary aim was to manage hypothyroidism with Ayurvedic medicines. The patient was treated with medhya rasayana drugs and kanchanar guggulu. The present study has focused effectiveness of polyherbal Ayurvedic therapy in hypothyroidism.
RADIAL NERVE PALSY TREATED SUCCESSFULLY BY AYURVEDA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: HP Priyadarshini , Khader Abdul , Pady Amritha E.
Published: October 2022

Radial nerve palsy is a condition that affects the radial nerve, and injury to the radial nerve can occur at any point along its anatomical route with different aetiology. Damage to the radial nerve leads to wrist drop, weakness in finger extension, thumb abduction, and sensory loss in the dorsal web between the thumb and index finger. In Ayurveda, Facial nerve palsy can be considered Ekanga vata, one among Vataja Nanatmaja Vyadhi. The Aggravated Vata dosha affects the sira and snayu of the Bahu, which leads to cheshta nivrutti. In radial nerve palsy, there will be loss of wrist extension and sensory loss at the dorsum of the hand and forearm. By this, we can understand Ekanga vata. Here, an effort was made to treat a 50-year-old male patient diagnosed with Ekanga Vata (Vama Bahu- Hasta mula and anguli) vis-à-vis Radial nerve palsy and treated by the Ayurvedic line of management. He was treated with Abhyanga, swedana, Sadhyovirechana and Nasya along with Shamanaushadhis. The total duration of the treatment was 14 days. There were marked improvements seen after the completion of therapy and after the complete follow-up. The outcome of this case study shows that Radial nerve palsy may be successfully managed with panchakarma procedures and internal ayurvedic medicines.
MANAGEMENT OF DERMATOPHYTOSIS WITH AYURVEDIC INTERVENTION: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Ther Mahendra , Lakkawar Medha
Published: October 2022

Dermatophytosis (tinea) infections are superficial fungal diseases caused by dermatophytes, a genus of fungus that penetrates and develops in dead keratin. Fungal infections are more likely to recur and, if left untreated, can result in the emergence of more serious illnesses. Even though there are many antifungal medications available to treat tinea infection, relapses and recurrences show that the pathogenic organism is not easily destroyed, necessitating more study to develop new therapeutic choices. In Ayurveda, many drugs are claimed to have the krimighna effect, which can lead to a more efficient course of treatment. Dermatophytosis can be simulated with dadru kushtha since the clinical characteristics of the disease are more closely related to dermatophytosis. Material and Method: In this case report, a 30-year-old female patient was successfully treated with the Ayurvedic interventions of chakramarda beeja churna, vidanga beeja, kampillaka, rala, tankana bhasma, and aaroyavardhini vati after being diagnosed with dadru kushtha (tinea corporis) based on symptoms. Result: After 45 days of consistent treatment, there was total relief from the symptoms of kandu (itching), daha (burning sensation), raga (erythema), pidika (eruptions), and utsanna mandala (elevated circular skin lesion), and there was no recurrence in the 15-day follow-up period. Conclusion: Dermatophytosis can be effectively treated with Ayurvedic bahiparimarjana (external application) and shamana chikitsa, along with dietary restrictions and personal hygiene.
A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL TO EVALUATE THE EFFICACY OF PUNARNAVADI PINDA SVEDA IN KATIGRAHA
Authors: Nanda Rashmi , Kumar Vikram , BS Praveen
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Low back ache is a common orthopaedic condition and has a ubiquitous distribution. It is said to affect about 60-80% of the population at least once in a lifetime. Low back pain of mechanical origin is usually confined to the lumbosacral region, buttock or thigh and does not radiate beyond the knee. Katigraha is vatajananatmaja vyadhi having pain and stiffness as prominent features. Due to its resemblance in clinical characteristics, Katigraha may be paralleled to non-specific or mechanical low back aches. Materials and methods: Forty patients between 20-70 years of either sex, satisfying inclusion and exclusion criteria, were randomly selected from OPD and IPD of the department of Panchakarma Alva’s Ayurveda Medical College.20 Patients each were randomly allocated into two groups, Group KP and Group PP, and were treated with kolakulathadi pinda sveda and punarnavadi pinda sveda, respectively. Result: Both punarnavadi pinda sveda and kolakulathadi pinda sveda has shown highly significant result on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), stiffness, pain intensity, and pain affecting the activity of daily living such as personal care, lifting weight, walking, sitting, standing, and travelling, changing the degree of pain, forward bending, RLF and LLF
ETHNO PRACTICE IN BHUTONMADA: A REVIEW
Authors: Balyaya Karthik , D’Souza Zenica
Published: October 2022

Bhutonmada/Grahonmada is a Psychiatric condition characterized by abnormal behaviour in terms of an exhibition of strength, energy, valour and enthusiasm, defects in perception, retention and memory, abnormality of speech, and abnormality in perceiving self and environment. Bhutavidya deals with the possession of demons or evil spirits and their management. It is widely practised in many parts of India; however, Ethno-practitioners in some regions of Kerala and Karnataka who have proficient knowledge about Bhutavidya are treating patients successfully. A combined approach of Jyotishyashastra, and Daivavyapashraya, like Mantra-Homa-Bali and Bheshaja, are followed by such practitioners. In this approach, Jyothishyashastra is used as a tool for diagnosis, while a combined approach of Daivavyapashraya and Yuktivyapashraya is used in its treatment. This article presents the concept of Bhutavidya explained in Ayurveda along with descriptions of Ethno-practices narrated by a Bhutavaidya residing in Kasargod district of Kerala; information collected through an in-depth, focused Interview.
A REVIEW OF DIGESTION AND METABOLISM IN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Arora Shivani , Arora Chirag
Published: October 2022

The diet nourishes the human body through digestion and metabolism, which are depicted in Ayurveda under the concepts of Agni (digestive/metabolic factors) and avasthapaka (phases of digestion). The process of breakdown down complex forms of food into simplest monomers through enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract is called digestion. As per Ayurveda, Agni is the key element for digestion and metabolism. It is the functional entity responsible for transforming the ahara dravyas (food). Avasthapaka is the peculiar concept coined by Acharyas to describe the various phases of digestion. Each foodstuff ingested by an individual must pass through three phases of avasthapaka (madhur avasthapaka, amla avasthapaka and katu avasthapaka) compulsorily, which later on gets converted into sharir bhava. In the present article, an attempt has been made to correlate the physiological aspects of agni and avasthapaka with modern medical science.
A REVIEW ON SWAPNAVISHAYKA ARISHTA OF CHARAK INDRIYASTHAN: A PROGNOSTIC PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Bhagat Priya P. , Pachghare Madhuri
Published: October 2022

Ayurveda is a traditional science of medicine concerned with the livelihood of human creatures. This science also deals with basic principles regarding the health and diseases of the human being. All these basic principles are stated in the Ayurvedic text called Samhita. There are many Samhitas in Ayurveda. Some of them are called Brihattrayee and laghutrayee. In Brihatrayee Charak Samhita is important one. Charak Samhita has eight divisions with specifications. Among all these eight specific divisions, Indriyasthan deals with various fatal signs and symptoms in multiple diseases and diseased people related to various bodily factors such as rupa, rasa, gandha, sparsha, shabda and many others. It also includes fatal signs of swapna (dreams) called ‘Swapnaviskahaya arishta’, seen in poorwaroop (prodromal symptoms) of diseases. One can ask about swapna to the patient by which prognostic perspective can be achieved with the help of this swapnawishayak arishta. This swapnavishayak arishta from Charka Samhita indriyasthan gives knowledge of whether the disease is curable or not. It also helps in the prognosis of the diseases and patients. Hence present paper is an attempt to take a critical review of Charak indriyasthan to understand the predictive perspective of swapnavishayak arishta.
A CRITICAL REVIEW ON SUDARSHAN CHURNA
Authors: Rani Sheenam , Sharma Usha , Mitra Shuchi , Chandra Mahesh , Sharma Khem Chand
Published: October 2022

Sudarshan Churna is one of the valuable polyherbal Ayurvedic formulations used to treat all kinds of acute and chronic fevers, fever of unknown aetiology, malaria, typhoid, loss of appetite, jaundice, respiratory infections, cough, debility and breathing difficulties linked with fever. Sudarshan Churna helps to ameliorate digestion and appetite; eliminates harmful toxins from the blood; improves immunity and preserves the body against various infections; promotes diaphoresis and urination. In Sudarshan Churna, Swertia chirayita (Roxb. ex Flem.) Karst. is 50% of the total quantity of the remaining other ingredients. It is an esteemed Ayurvedic preparation well known for its antipyretic, antimalarial, antiviral and antidiabetic activity. Various renowned Acharyas have mentioned it in their different classical texts. Acharyas have mentioned its other therapeutic uses, but mainly it has been used in curing different types of Jwara Vikara (fever). Various pharmacological studies have proved antipyretic activity, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, antihistamine activity, analgesic activity and docking study against the SARS CoV-2 of Sudarshan Churna. This article compile review of Ayurvedic literature, an analytical study and pharmacological study of Sudarshan Churna.
A CRITICAL REVIEW ON ANUVASAN BASTI
Authors: Sharma Ashu , Kumar Ravindra
Published: October 2022

Basti is Panchakarma's most essential and popular procedure, used to treat various disorders. It is a method of administrating medicine in the form of oil and decoction through the rectal route. Anuvaasan Basti is a type of Basti in which Sneha is used for administration. Vata is the main causative factor in the manifestation of diseases occurring in the Shakha, Koshtha and Marma. Anuvasana Basti can be used as a single therapy for various Vata Vikaras. An attempt has been made here to review the concept of Anuvasana Basti.
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF GUDUCHI (TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA): A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Rawat Himanshu , KP Anju , Ojha Nisha Kumari
Published: October 2022

In traditional medicine, Guduchi is considered to have a status of the highest order in natural medicine and Ayurveda. Guduchi is derived from a Sanskrit word called “Amrita” due to its medicinal and therapeutic properties. In vitro and in vivo studies around the world proved the medicinal value of Tinospora cordifolia. Guduchi's medicinal therapeutic effect was identified: antioxidant property, antimicrobial property, anticancer activity, antihepatotoxic effects, anti-inflammatory activities, antistress and memory enhancement, antidiabetic property, anti-osteoporotic effect, analgesic activity, and wound healing. This paper is produced by systematically reviewing the scientific literature and comprehensive summary of the medicinal properties of Guduchi.
The Effect of Spraying with Spirulina Extract and Microelements on the Growth and Yield of Cucumbers
Authors: Al-Najjar Souad Abdel Latif Mohamed Al-Mursi
Published: October 2022

Algae extracts are an excellent source of chemical fertilizers (NPK) and plant growth promoters such as auxins, cytokinins, betaine, gibberellins, amino acids, macronutrients, microelements, and organic matter that improve plant productivity. The investigation was performed at 2019-2020 through winter seasons, in sandy soil at Ismailia Agricultural Research Station greenhouse. To investigate the impact of numerous levels of spraying of spirulina extract (after being diluted with half its volume of water) combined with or without microelements on the vegetative development and cucumber yield (Cucumis sativus L.) of Rocket cultivar. The experiment involved 7 different treatments (control, foliar fertilization by 5 ml, 10 ml, and 15 ml of spirulina extract/L water combined with or without concentrated microelements at 2 ml/L. Spraying was performed after 2 weeks planting three times 15 days intervals. The experiment was performed with three repetitions using a complete block randomized design (CBRD), and averages were compared using the test Duncan's at 0.05 level. Spraying with 15 mL spirulina with microelements achieved the highest plant height, main branches number, number of leaves, leaf area, length fruit, fruit diameter, stems and leaves fresh weight, stems and leaves dry weight, chlorophyll content and, NPK during two seasons. While the highest yield was recorded in terms of plant yield (1.27 and 1.31 kg), the yield of the experimental plot (25.59 and 26.25 kg), the total yield per fed. (10.74 and 11.02 tons) by spraying with 5 ml of spirulina extract incorporated with microelements during the two planting seasons, respectively. The results show that higher spirulina concentrations activate plant growth, chlorophyll and NPK in the leaves, while the concentration above 5 ml spirulina reduces the resulting yield.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Mucormycosis in COVID-19 Patients Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital Aurangabad
Authors: Naik M. , Khade Shamisha , Bangi Vinayak , Patel Nilofer Banoisa
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Mucormycosis manifests as various syndromes in human beings, particularly in immunocompromised patients and those with diabetes mellitus. Recently, several cases of mucormycosis in people with COVID19 have been increasingly reported worldwide, especially from India. This prompted us to conduct a study in mucormycosis patients with COVID-19, to know its clinical profile of the COVID-19 patients with mucormycosis and identify of various risk factors in mucormycosis patients with COVID-19 infection.

Materials and Methods: This Cross sectional Retrospective Qualitative Descriptive study was conducted in Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Aurangabad [Maharashtra]. A total of 100 patients admitted from April 2021 to August 2021 were enrolled as study participants. All COVID-19 patients admitted in MGM who are diagnosed with mucormycosis by microbiologically (KOH mount) or radiologically (CT/MRI) or by histopathology.

Observations and Results: The mean age of patients was 59.72±12.47 years. The male 73 (73.0%) predomianance than female 27(27.0%). 88(88.0%) of patients were having Diabetic Mellitus and 31(31.0%) of patients were having hypertension. All the patients were given Antibiotic & steroids during treatment of COVID-19 at hospitalisation. 15(15.0%) of patients were admitted in ICU during treatment of COVID-19. 76(76.0%) patients were required Oxygen, 03(3.0%) were on NIV/Ventilator and 08 (8.0%) patients were on HFOT during treatment of COVID-19. Overall (97.0%) of patients were recovered.

Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus is identified as the leading underlying comorbidity in cases diagnosed with mucormycosis in post COVID-19 patients. Also use of steroid, duration of use of steroid, and oxygen therapy during the treatment of COVID-19 were risk factors observed in the patients with mucormycosis.
Pathogenic Bacteria Profiles in Street Cooked and Raw Meat from Selected Markets in Entebbe Municipality, Uganda
Authors: Nagingo Patricia , Omara Denis , Mwesigwa Joel Philip , Lujjimbirwa Fortunate
Published: October 2022

Background: Microbial contaminations and their toxins have a lead role in food-borne outbreaks (FBOs) through food poisoning, spoilage, and intoxications. In Africa, it’s approximated that 92 million people fall ill from consuming contaminated foods, resulting in 137,000 deaths each year. And yet, food safety does not seem to be a major concern within many countries in this continent. This study aimed at isolating pathogenic bacteria from street-cooked and raw meat from selected markets in Entebbe municipality, Uganda.

Methodology: This was a descriptive randomized cross-sectional study. Samples were in two clusters that is cooked and raw meat (chicken and beef). All of them were analyzed in the microbiology laboratory uniformly. A sample size of 40 was used. Selective media and bio-chemicals were used in the bacterial species isolation and identification respectively.

Results: A total of 11 isolates of bacteria were isolated and identified. These included gram-positive cocci: Staphylococcus spp (23.5%), and Enterococcus spp (12.3%); gram-positive rods: Corynebacterium spp (23.5%), and Mycobacterium spp (3.7%); and gram-negative rods: Serratia spp (1.2%), Citrobacter spp (9.9%), E. coli spp (1.2%), Salmonella spp (1.2%), and Shigella spp (1.2%).

Conclusion: There are significant levels of microbial contamination associated with street foods and these accounts for food-borne illnesses.
Evolutionary Sequence of Spacetime and Intrinsic Spacetime and Associated Sequence of Geometries in Metric Force Fields IV
Authors: Joseph O. Akindele Adekugbe
Published: October 2022

The flat two-dimensional relative proper intrinsic metric spacetime (\(\varnothing \rho^{\prime}, \varnothing c_s \varnothing t^{\prime}\)) underlying the flat four-dimensional relative proper metric spacetime \(\left(\mathbb{E}^{\prime 3}, c_s t^{\prime}\right)\), which emerges at the first stage of evolution of metric spacetime and intrinsic metric spacetime in long-range metric force fields, isolated in the first three parts of this paper, endures for no moment before transforming into a curved two-dimensional relative proper intrinsic metric spacetime with pseudo-orthogonal curvilinear intrinsic dimensions, (\(\varnothing \rho^{\prime}\) and \(\varnothing c_s \varnothing t^{\prime}\)), on the vertical intrinsic metric spacetime hyperplane, on the larger spacetime and intrinsic spacetime of combined positive (or our) universe and the negative universe. It therefore possesses intrinsic Lorentzian metric tensor at every point. It projects an underlying flat relativistic intrinsic metric spacetime \(\left(\varnothing \rho, \varnothing c_s \varnothing t\right)\), which is made manifested outwardly in a flat four-dimensional relativistic metric spacetime \(\left(\mathbb{E}^3, c_s t\right)\), at the second (and final) stage of evolution of metric spacetime and intrinsic metric spacetime in long-range metric force fields. The conclusion that the four-dimensional metric spacetime is everywhere flat in every Iong-range metric force field is reached.The curved 'two-dimensional' absolute intrinsic metric spacetime (\(\varnothing \hat{\rho}, \varnothing \hat{c}_s \varnothing \hat{t}\)) with absolute intrinsic sub-Riemannian metric tensor \(\varnothing \hat{g}_{i k}\), which evolves at the first stage is brought forward to the second stage. The basic aspects of the theory of relativity on the flat relativistic metric spacetime, intrinsic theory of relativity on the underlying flat relativistic intrinsic metric spacetime and absolute intrinsic metric theory on the curved absolute intrinsic metric spacetime, associated with the presence of a metric force field in spacetime and intrinsic metric force field in intrinsic spacetime, are developed in terms of certain derived geometrical parameters, referred to as relative proper static flow speed, relative proper intrinsic static flow speed and absolute intrinsic static flow speed respectively. Particularization to the gravitational field will be a straight forward process, while using the results of this paper as template.
Systemic Interventions for Treatment of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Noe Megan H. , Micheletti Robert G.
Published: October 2022

Clinical Question

What are the effects of systemic therapies for Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN)?

Bottom Line

There is limited high-quality evidence to support the use of systemic immunomodulatory therapies to decrease mortality rates in SJS/TEN.
Assessing Mental Illness Risk Among North Korean Refugees and Immigrants Resettled in South Korea
Authors: Lee Rugyeom , Lee Sang Min , Hong Minha , Oh In-Hwan
Published: October 2022

Importance

The global increase in the numbers of refugees and immigrants has made mental health a major public concern. Although they are divided, North and South Korea share a common ethnic heritage.

Objective

To investigate mental illness risk among North Korean immigrants living in South Korea and compare it with that of the general South Korean population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, population-based cohort study was based on National Health Insurance claims data from 2007 to 2019, and North Korean immigrants and refugees (NKIRs) and age-matched and sex-matched members of the general population (GP) were included with a 1:3 ratio. Data were analyzed from March 2022 to August 2022.

Exposure

Emigration from North Korea to South Korea.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Mental illness incidence and risk through a Cox proportional risk model adjusted for sex, age, disability, region, Charlson Comorbidity Index score, and insurance premium percentile.

Results

A total of 37 209 NKIRs and 111 627 members of the GP were enrolled. The final analysis examined 112 851 individuals (73 238 [64.9%] female, median [IQR] age 34 [19-47] years), with 90 235 (80.0%) in the GP and 22 616 (20.0%) in the NKIR group. The propensity score–matching population numbered 24 532 in total, with 12 266 each in the NKIR and GP groups. NKIR patients had a higher mental illness risk than the GP (hazard ratio [HR], 2.12; 95% CI, 2.04-2.21). The multivariable adjusted HRs (95% CI) for developing mental disorders were 4.91 (3.59-6.71) for posttraumatic stress disorder, 3.10 (2.90-3.30) for major depressive disorder, 2.27 (2.11-2.44) for anxiety and panic disorder, 2.03 (1.58-2.60) for bipolar affective disorder, 1.85 (1.53-2.24) for alcohol use disorder, and 1.89 (1.46-2.45) for schizophrenia.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, NKIR individuals showed a significantly higher risk of developing most mental disorders. Interventional strategies can prevent psychiatric morbidity and ensure adequate care for this population.
Association Between Life Expectancy at Age 60 Years Before the COVID-19 Pandemic and Excess Mortality During the Pandemic in Aging Countries
Authors: Urashima Mitsuyoshi , Tanaka Emiri , Ishihara Hiroto , Akutsu Taisuke
Published: October 2022

This cross-sectional study investigates the association between life expectancy before COVID-19 and excess mortality during the pandemic in aging countries.
Evaluation of Prefrontal γ-Aminobutyric Acid and Glutamate Levels in Individuals With Major Depressive Disorder Using Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Ritter Christopher , Buchmann Andreas , Müller Sabrina Theresia , Volleberg Martin , Haynes Melanie , Ghisleni Carmen , Noeske Ralph , Tuura Ruth , Hasler Gregor
Published: October 2022

Importance

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent illnesses worldwide. Perturbations of the major inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate (Glu), respectively, as well as Glx (Glu or glutamine [Gln]) have been extensively reported in a multitude of brain areas of individuals with depression, but few studies have examined changes in Gln, the metabolic counterpart of synaptic Glu.

Objective

To investigate changes in GABA, Glx, Glu, and Gln levels in a voxel in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of participants with no, past, and current MDD using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This community-based study used a cross-sectional design using 3-T 1H-MRS in participants not taking MDD medication recruited from the community. The sample consisted of 251 healthy controls, 98 participants with a history of past MDD, and 47 participants who met the diagnostic criteria for current MDD. Diagnostic groups were comparable regarding age, education, income, and diet. Data were collected from March 2014 to October 2021, and data were analyzed from October 2021 to June 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

GABA, Glx, Glu, and Gln concentrations in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

Results

Of 396 included participants, 258 (65.2%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 25.0 (4.7) years. Compared with healthy controls, those with past MDD and current MDD had lower GABA concentrations (mean [SEM] concentration: healthy controls, 2.70 [0.03] mmol/L; past MDD, 2.49 [0.05] mmol/L; current MDD, 2.54 [0.07] mmol/L; 92 with past MDD vs 236 healthy controls: r = 0.18; P = .002; 44 with current MDD vs 236 healthy controls: r = 0.13; P = .04). Compared with healthy controls, those with past MDD also had lower Glu concentrations (mean [SEM] concentration: healthy controls, 7.52 [0.06] mmol/L; past MDD, 7.23 [0.11] mmol/L; 93 with past MDD vs 234 healthy controls: r = 0.16; P = .01) and higher Gln concentrations (mean [SEM] concentration: healthy controls, 1.63 [0.04] mmol/L; past MDD, 1.84 [0.07] mmol/L; 66 with past MDD 153 healthy controls: r = 0.17; P = .04).

Conclusions and Relevance

In a large, mostly medication-free community sample, reduced prefrontal GABA concentrations were associated with past MDD, consistent with histopathologic studies reporting reduced glial cell and GABA cell density in the prefrontal cortex in individuals with depression. Patients with MDD also demonstrated increased Gln levels, indicative of increased synaptic Glu release, adding to previous evidence for the Glu hypothesis of MDD.
Current Status of National Institutes of Health Research Funding for Women Surgeon-Scientists
Authors: Saif Areeba , Demblowski Lindsay A. , Blakely Andrew M. , Zeiger Martha A.
Published: October 2022

Importance

Women have made substantial advancements in academic surgery, but research funding disparities continue to hamper their progress, and current literature on the status of National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding awarded to women surgeon-scientists appears to be conflicting.

Objective

To examine gender-based differences in NIH funding awarded to surgeon-scientists by comparing total grant amounts awarded and the distribution of grants by gender and research type.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study was performed using a previously created database of NIH-funded surgeons from 2010 to 2020. Active physician data from the Association of American Medical Colleges were used to calculate total surgeon populations. This study was performed at the NIH using the NIH internal data platform, iSearch Grants. A total of 715 men and women surgeon-scientists funded by the NIH in 2010 and 1031 funded in 2020 were included in the analysis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the number of women among the total number of surgeons who received NIH grants and the total grant amounts awarded to them. Bivariate χ2 analyses were performed using population totals and substantiated by z tests of population proportions.

Results

This study included 715 physicians (n = 579 men [81.0%]) in 2010 and 1031 physicians (n = 769 men [74.6%]) in 2020. In 2020, women comprised 27.4% of the surgical workforce and 25.4% of surgeons with research funding in the US, but they received only 21.7% of total NIH research funding awarded to all surgeons. The number of funded women surgeon-scientists, however, significantly increased from 2010 to 2020 (262 [25.4%] in 2020 vs 136 [19.0%] in 2010; P < .001) as did their funding ($189.7 million [21.7%] in 2020 vs $75.9 million [12.3%] in 2010; P < .001). Furthermore, the proportion of US women surgeons overall with NIH funding significantly increased in 2020 vs 2010 (0.7% vs 0.5%; P < .001). Basic science, clinical outcomes, and clinical trial R01 grants also increased among women surgeon-scientists. Women and men K grant holders had a similar mean (SD) number of R01 application attempts before success (2.7 [3.01] vs 2.3 [3.15]; P = .60) and similar K-to-R award conversion rates (23.5% vs 26.7%; P = .55).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study found an increasing number of women surgeon-scientists receiving NIH funding in 2020 vs 2010 as well as increases in the median grant amounts awarded. Although these results are promising, a discrepancy remains in the proportion of women in the surgical workforce compared with those funded by the NIH and the total grant amounts awarded to them.
Adaptive neural finite‐time output‐feedback tracking control for nonlinear stochastic nonstrict‐feedback systems with input saturation
Authors: Xu Ke , Wang Huanqing , Shen Haikuo
Published: October 2022

In this paper, an observer‐based adaptive neural output‐feedback control scheme is developed for a class of nonlinear stochastic nonstrict‐feedback systems with input saturation in finite‐time interval. The mean value theorem and the property of the smooth function are applied to cope with the difficulties caused by the existence of input saturation. According to the universal approximation capability of the radial basis function neural network, it will be utilized to compensate the unknown nonlinear functions. Based on the state observer, the finite‐time Lyapunov stability theorem, we propose an adaptive neural output‐feedback control scheme for nonlinear stochastic systems in nonstrict‐feedback form. The developed controller guarantees that the system output signal can track the given reference signal trajectory, and all closed‐loop signals are semi‐globally finite‐time stability in probability. The observer errors and the tracking error can converge to a small neighborhood of the origin. Finally, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed control scheme.
Additive Manufacturing of Intertwined Electrode Pairs ‐ Guided Mass Transport with Gyroids
Authors: Wiesner Florian , Limper Alexander , Marth Cedric , Brodersen Anselm , Wessling Matthias , Linkhorst John
Published: October 2022

Electrochemical flow reactors facilitate the storage of renewable energies and the carbon‐neutral production of platform chemicals. To maximize the reactor efficiency, unhindered mass transport in the flow channel and high surface electrodes is required. However, state‐of‐the‐art reactors are limited by the conventional parallel plate designs. Herein, 3D intertwined electrode pairs are presented, based on triply periodic minimal surfaces that facilitate mass transport and provide high surface areas. Three gyroid designs with outer dimensions of 20 × 40 × 70 mm are manufactured from stainless steel via selective laser melting and implemented into a conventional flow cell. By design, the electrodes are rendered porous through the targeted control of the energy density during fabrication. Mass transport characterization by use of the fast ferri‐/ferrocyanide redox reaction demonstrates that smaller unit cells and thus shorter interelectrode distances achieve significantly increased current densities. Moreover, the addition of convective channels formed by second‐level gyroid structures removes diffusion boundary layers by promoting convective flow in electrode vicinity. The convective flow enhancement of the microscale channels even surpasses the effect of the unit cell size reduction, demonstrating importance of mass transport control. The integrated electrode design holds great potential for efficient next‐generation electrochemical flow reactors.
Organic Planar Heterojunction Solar Cells and Photodetectors Tailored to the Exciton Diffusion Length Scale of a Non‐Fullerene Acceptor
Authors: Lee Tack Ho , Dong Yifan , Pacalaj Richard A. , Park Song Yi , Xu Weidong , Kim Ji‐Seon , Durrant James R.
Published: October 2022

While non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) have recently been demonstrated to exhibit long‐range exciton diffusion, most organic photovoltaic and photodetector studies still focus on blended polymer: NFA systems. Herein, a 40 nm exciton diffusion length for IT4F excitons is determined, and it is demonstrated that sharp interface, planar heterojunction (PHJ) IT4F/PM6 devices with the IT4F layer thickness matched to this diffusion length yield optimized photovoltaic and photodetector performance. The PHJ devices yield an enhanced device open‐circuit voltage relative to bulk heterojunction (BHJ) devices, associated with suppressed bimolecular recombination losses. The PHJ architecture also results in a ≈100‐fold increase in electroluminescence (EL) quantum efficiency relative to the BHJ device, correlated with a shift from charge transfer state EL for the BHJ to IT4F exciton dominated EL for the PHJ, attributed to significant hole injection from PM6 into IT4F. Of particular note, the PHJ architecture is shown to suppress dark leakage current, resulting in 83 times higher photodetector detectivity at −2 V bias than the equivalent BHJ device.
Wearable Hydrogel‐Based Epidermal Sensor with Thermal Compatibility and Long Term Stability for Smart Colorimetric Multi‐Signals Monitoring
Authors: Han Fei , Xie Xueyong , Wang Tiansong , Cao Chaoyu , Li Juju , Sun Tianying , Liu Hao , Geng Songmei , Wei Zhao , Li Jing , Xu Feng
Published: October 2022

Hydrogel‐based wearable epidermal sensors (HWESs) have attracted widespread attention in health monitoring, especially considering their colorimetric readout capability. However, it remains challenging for HWESs to work at extreme temperatures with long term stability due to the existence of water. Herein, a wearable transparent epidermal sensor with thermal compatibility and long term stability for smart colorimetric multi‐signals monitoring is developed, based on an anti‐freezing and anti‐drying hydrogel with high transparency (over 90% transmittance), high stretchability (up to 1500%) and desirable adhesiveness to various kinds of substrates. The hydrogel consists of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamide, and tannic acid‐coated cellulose nanocrystals in glycerin/water binary solvents. When glycerin readily forms strong hydrogen bonds with water, the hydrogel exhibits outstanding thermal compatibility. Furthermore, the hydrogel maintains excellent adhesion, stretchability, and transparency after long term storage (45 days) or at subzero temperatures (−20 °C). For smart colorimetric multi‐signals monitoring, the freestanding smart colorimetric HWESs are utilized for simultaneously monitoring the pH, T and light, where colorimetric signals can be read and stored by artificial intelligence strategies in a real time manner. In summary, the developed wearable transparent epidermal sensor holds great potential for monitoring multi‐signals with visible readouts in long term health monitoring.
Plasmonic Bound States in the Continuum in Compact Nanostructures
Authors: Zhou Qingjia , Fu Yangyang , Liu Jiaqing , Yan Huimei , Chen Huanyang , Gao Lei , Jiang Jian‐Hua , Xu Yadong
Published: October 2022

Optical bound states in the continuum (BICs) have become a unique way to produce the extreme localization and enhancement of light waves, however, it remains challenging to realize them in single‐particle systems. This work shows the existence of optical BICs in a compact corrugated metallic cylinder, and quasi‐BICs are observed in multiple channels when adjacent grooves have different depths. It is revealed that such BICs are purely plasmonic, resulting from the destructive interference of two localized surface plasmon modes in the nanostructures. Benefiting from the surface plasmon effects, the findings extend optical BICs and the associated physics to subwavelength optics, providing a route to break the diffraction limit and boost light–matter interactions.
Palladium‐Catalyzed (5+3) Annulation of 4‐Vinyl‐4‐Butyrolactones with C,N‐Cyclic Azomethine Imines: Construction of Eight‐Membered Ring
Authors: Yang Sen , Li Kuan , Tang Yi , Zheng Bing , Wang Wei , Wu Yongjun , Xiao Yumei , Guo Hongchao
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we designed and synthesized 4‐vinyl‐4‐butyrolactone as a precursor to generate the zwitterionic allylpalladium intermediates, which behaved as five‐membered all‐carbon synthon in palladium‐catalyzed (5+3) annulation with azomethine imines, giving eight‐membered ring‐fused heterocycles (26 examples, 49% to 97% yield, >20:1 dr).

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Cu‐Catalyzed C−H Perfluoroalkylation/Cyclization of Unactivated Alkenes: Synthesis of Perfluoroalkylated Tricyclimidazoles
Authors: Guo Zhuangzhuang , Chen Xiaoyu , Xue Yingying , Li Jingya , Zou Dapeng , Wu Yangjie , Wu Yusheng
Published: October 2022

A copper‐catalyzed cascade difunctionalization of unactivated olefins with readily available Rf‐I reagents to construct Csp3−CF2/C−C bonds has been reported. This strategy provides a convenient access to a variety of useful perfluoroalkylated tricyclimidazole derivatives in reasonable yields. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicate that the present reaction probably undergo a radical/SET (single electron transfer) pathway. The transformation features mild condition, simple operation, atomic economy, and broad substrate scope.

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Organocatalyzed One‐Pot Sequential Deracemization of Aromatic Ketones Bearing a Tertiary Stereogenic Center
Authors: Segovia Claire , Godemert Jérémy , Brière Jean‐François , Levacher Vincent , Oudeyer Sylvain
Published: October 2022

An organocatalyzed one‐pot sequential deracemization of aromatic ketones bearing a stereogenic center at the α‐position was achieved thanks to an acid‐base strategy involving an enantioselective protonation reaction as a key step. This simple and efficient protocol yields enantioenriched ketones in up to 89%eewithout the need to isolate sensitive intermediates such as silyl enolates. The key role of water in this process was underlined. This one‐pot sequence constitutes a useful extension to previously reported chemically driven red‐ox protocols, thus increasing the panel of molecules eligible to a deracemization strategy.

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Programming Multistable Metamaterials to Discover Latent Functionalities
Authors: Mofatteh Hossein , Shahryari Benyamin , Mirabolghasemi Armin , Seyedkanani Alireza , Shirzadkhani Razieh , Desharnais Gilles , Akbarzadeh Abdolhamid
Published: October 2022

Using multistable mechanical metamaterials to develop deployable structures, electrical devices, and mechanical memories raises two unanswered questions. First, can mechanical instability be programmed to design sensors and memory devices? Second, how can mechanical properties be tuned at the post‐fabrication stage via external stimuli? Answering these questions requires a thorough understanding of the snapping sequences and variations of the elastic energy in multistable metamaterials. The mechanics of deformation sequences and continuous force/energy–displacement curves are comprehensively unveiled here. A 1D array, that is chain, of bistable cells is studied to explore instability‐induced energy release and snapping sequences under one external mechanical stimulus. This method offers an insight into the programmability of multistable chains, which is exploited to fabricate a mechanical sensor/memory with sampling (analog to digital‐A/D) and data reconstruction (digital to analog‐D/A) functionalities operating based on the correlation between the deformation sequence and the mechanical input. The findings offer a new paradigm for developing programmable high‐capacity read–write mechanical memories regardless of thei size scale. Furthermore, exotic mechanical properties can be tuned by harnessing the attained programmability of multistable chains. In this respect, a transversely multistable mechanical metamaterial with tensegrity‐like bistable cells is designed to showcase the tunability of chirality.
Spatial Regulation Control of Oxygen Metabolic Consumption in Mouse Brain
Authors: Zhou Lin , Li Xinru , Su Bin
Published: October 2022

The mammalian brain relies on significant oxygen metabolic consumption to fulfill energy supply, brain function, and neural activity. In this study, in vivo electrochemistry is combined with physiological and ethological analyses to explore oxygen metabolic consumption in an area of the mouse brain that includes parts of the primary somatosensory cortex, primary motor cortex, hippocampus, and striatum. The oxygen levels at different locations of this boundary section are spatially resolved by measuring the electrical current in vivo using ingeniously designed anti‐biofouling carbon fiber microelectrodes. The characteristics of the current signals are further interpreted by simultaneously recording the physiological responses of the mice. Additionally, ethological tests are performed to validate the correlation between oxygen levels and mouse behavior. It is found that high‐dose caffeine injection can evoke spatial variability in oxygen metabolic consumption between the four neighboring brain regions. It is proposed that the oxygen metabolic consumption in different brain regions is not independent of each other but is subject to spatial regulation control following the rules of “rank of brain region” and “relative distance.” Furthermore, as revealed by in vivo wireless electrochemistry and ethological analysis, mice are at risk of neuronal damage from long‐term intake of high‐dose caffeine.