bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superabsorbent polymer balls as foreign bodies in the nasal cavities of children: our clinical experience
Authors: Han Sai-hong , Chen Yong-chao , Xian Zhi-xiong , Teng Yi-shu
Published: June 2021

Objective

To summarize the clinical diagnosis and treatment of superabsorbent polymer balls as nasal foreign bodies in children.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed the clinical data concerning 12 cases of superabsorbent polymer balls as nasal foreign bodies in children and summarized the corresponding clinical features, methods of diagnoses and treatment, and prognoses.

Results

Twelve children with superabsorbent polymer balls as foreign bodies in their nasal cavities presented with relatively severe symptoms, such as congestion, runny nose, and nasal swelling. When such foreign bodies stay in the nasal cavity for a prolonged period, patients may suffer from general discomfort, such as agitation, poor appetite and high fever. Most of the children had to undergo nasal endoscopy under general anaesthesia to have the foreign bodies completely removed. An intraoperative examination revealed significant mucosal injury within the nasal cavity. With regular follow-up visits and adequate interventions, all the patients recovered.

Conclusion

The longer superabsorbent polymer balls remain in the nasal cavity, the more damaged the nasal mucosa will be. It is challenging to remove such foreign bodies in the outpatient setting. Transnasal endoscopy under general anaesthesia appears to be safer and more effective in such cases. Since the nasal mucosa is injured to varying degrees, postoperative follow-up and treatment are equally important for preventing the occurrence of complications.
MiR-24-3p attenuates IL-1β-induced chondrocyte injury associated with osteoarthritis by targeting BCL2L12
Authors: Xu Jin , Qian Xiaozhong , Ding Ren
Published: June 2021

Background

MiR-24-3p has been reported to be involved in an osteoarthritis (OA)-resembling environment. However, the functional role and underlying mechanism of miR-24-3p in chondrocyte injury associated with OA remains unknown.

Methods

The expression of miR-24-3p was determined using reverse transcription quantitative PCR analysis in OA cases and control patients, as well as IL-1β-stimulated chondrocyte cell line CHON-001. The cell viability was analyzed by CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis status was assessed by caspase-3 activity detection. The pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-18) were determined using ELISA assay. The association between miR-24-3p and B cell leukemia 2-like 12 (BCL2L12) was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay.

Results

We first observed that miR-24-3p expression level was lower in the OA cases than in the control patients and IL-1β decreased the expression of miR-24-3p in the chondrocyte CHON-001. Functionally, overexpression of miR-24-3p significantly attenuated IL-1β-induced chondrocyte injury, as reflected by increased cell viability, decreased caspase-3 activity, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-18). Western blot analysis showed that overexpression of miR-24-3p weakened IL-1β-induced cartilage degradation, as reflected by reduction of MMP13 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-13) and ADAMTS5 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-5) protein expression, as well as markedly elevation of COL2A1 (collagen type II). Importantly, BCL2L12 was demonstrated to be a target of miR-24-3p. BCL2L12 knockdown imitated, while overexpression significantly abrogated the protective effects of miR-24-3p against IL-1β-induced chondrocyte injury.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our work provides important insight into targeting miR-24-3p/BCL2L12 axis in OA therapy.
Frequency detection of BRAF V600E mutation in a cohort of pediatric langerhans cell histiocytosis patients by next-generation sequencing
Authors: Feng Shunqiao , Han Lin , Yue Mei , Zhong Dixiao , Cao Jing , Guo Yibing , Sun Yanling , Zhang Hao , Cao Zhenhua , Cui Xiaodai , Liu Rong
Published: June 2021

Background

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare neoplastic disease that occurs in both children and adults, and BRAF V600E is detected in up to 64% of the patients. Several studies have discussed the associations between BRAF V600E mutation and clinicopathological manifestations, but no clear conclusions have been drawn regarding the clinical significance of the mutation in pediatric patients.

Results

We retrieved the clinical information for 148 pediatric LCH patients and investigated the BRAF V600E mutation using next-generation sequencing alone or with droplet digital PCR. The overall positive rate of BRAF V600E was 60/148 (41%). The type of sample (peripheral blood and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue) used for testing was significantly associated with the BRAF V600E mutation status (p-value = 0.000 and 0.000). The risk of recurrence declined in patients who received targeted therapy (p-value = 0.006; hazard ratio 0.164, 95%CI: 0.046 to 0.583). However, no correlation was found between the BRAF V600E status and gender, age, stage, specific organ affected, TP53 mutation status, masses close to the lesion or recurrence.

Conclusions

This is the largest pediatric LCH study conducted with a Chinese population to date. BRAF V600E in LCH may occur less in East Asian populations than in other ethnic groups, regardless of age. Biopsy tissue is a more sensitive sample for BRAF mutation screening because not all of circulating DNA is tumoral. Approaches with low limit of detection or high sensitivity are recommended for mutation screening to avoid type I and II errors.
Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma with lung metastases: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Shimizu Tadafumi , Oba Takaaki , Chino Tatsunori , Soma Ai , Ono Mayu , Ito Tokiko , Kanai Toshiharu , Maeno Kazuma , Sato Yoshinori , Uehara Takeshi , Ito Ken-ichi
Published: June 2021

Background

Distant metastasis from papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) is rare. Here we report a case of PTMC with multiple lung metastases.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old man presented to our hospital with abdominal pain. Computed tomography incidentally revealed multiple lung nodules. The lung tumor was histologically diagnosed as metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) by core needle biopsy via thoracoscopy. The patient was referred to our department for further examination. Neck ultrasonography revealed a 0.9 cm hypoechoic nodule in the right lobe of the thyroid gland, which was diagnosed as PTC by fine-needle aspiration cytology. Subsequently, total thyroidectomy was performed, followed by radioiodine therapy. Iodine-131 (131-I) scintigraphy showed a strong accumulation in the lung metastasis. The patient presented no evidence of progression of lung metastasis for 25 months after the operation.

Conclusions

Lymph node metastasis or extraglandular extension has been reported in the few published cases of metastatic PTMC, including the present case, and the average age of these cases was 58.8 ± 12.0 years. Although active surveillance without surgical resection is expected to become a standard of care for PTMC, this case indicates that a subset of PTMC patients with risk factors may develop distant metastases. Hence, careful preoperative screening is required to avoid complications associated with completion thyroidectomy.
Integrating pharmacists into aged care facilities to improve the quality use of medicine (PiRACF Study): protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kosari Sam , Koerner Jane , Naunton Mark , Peterson Gregory M. , Haider Ibrahim , Lancsar Emily , Wright David , Niyonsenga Theo , Davey Rachel
Published: June 2021

Background

Medication management in residential aged care facilities is an ongoing concern. Numerous studies have reported high rates of inappropriate prescribing and medication use in aged care facilities, which contribute to residents’ adverse health outcomes. There is a need for new models of care that enhance inter-disciplinary collaboration between residential aged care facility staff and healthcare professionals, to improve medication management. Pilot research has demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of integrating a pharmacist into the aged care facility team to improve the quality use of medicines. This protocol describes the design and methods for a cluster randomised controlled trial to evaluate the outcomes and conduct economic evaluation of a service model where on-site pharmacists are integrated into residential aged care facility healthcare teams to improve medication management.

Methods

Intervention aged care facilities will employ on-site pharmacists to work as part of their healthcare teams 2 to 2.5 days per week for 12 months. On-site pharmacists, in collaboration with facility nurses, prescribers, community pharmacists, residents and families will conduct medication management activities to improve the quality use of medicines. Aged care facilities in the control group will continue usual care. The target sample size is 1188 residents from a minimum of 13 aged care facilities. The primary outcome is the appropriateness of prescribing, measured by the proportion of residents who are prescribed at least one potentially inappropriate medicine according to the 2019 Beers Criteria. Secondary outcomes include hospital and emergency department presentations, fall rates, prevalence and dose of antipsychotics and benzodiazepines, Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden Score, staff influenza vaccination rate, time spent on medication rounds, appropriateness of dose form modification and completeness of resident’s allergy and adverse drug reaction documentation. A cost-consequence and cost-effectiveness analysis will be embedded in the trial.

Discussion

The results of this study will provide information on clinical and economic outcomes of a model that integrates on-site pharmacists into Australian residential aged care facilities. The results will provide policymakers with recommendations relevant to further implementation of this model.

Trial registration

ACTRN12620000430932. Registered on 1 April 2020 with ANZCTR
Application of DNA methylation-based markers in identification of mixed body fluid evidences simulating crime scene scenarios
Authors: Gomaa Rania , Nader Lamis , Jamal Jumana
Published: June 2021

Background

Epigenetic modifications are heritable and follow a non-mendelian inheritance pattern. They do not alter the DNA sequence but affect the gene expression at the transcriptional level. DNA methylation is one of these epigenetic changes and it is characteristic to each tissue and shows specificity with respect to developmental stage and age. Due to its specificity and reliability, it has emerged as a valuable tool in forensic investigation. Biological samples, such as blood, saliva, semen, or hair found at the crime scene can be used to isolate DNA and study the methylation pattern. Recent developments in molecular biology techniques allowed the study of the effects of methylation in specific tissues. DNA methylation specificity is very intense. These specific markers can be used to identify the tissue type such as blood, saliva, or semen at the crime scene and helps in the identification of the culprit. The present study aimed to validate the use of DNA methylation body fluid-specific markers in the identification of peripheral blood, menstrual blood, and semen. Additionally, it aimed to investigate the potential use of such DNA methylation markers for the identification of different body fluids mixtures simulating forensic science scenarios. Different DNA methylation markers were studied in different body fluid samples (peripheral blood, menstrual blood, and semen) individually and as mixtures. DNA extraction and bisulfite conversion were performed and followed by real-time PCR.

Results

The results of real-time PCR and the statistical analysis showed that the SPERM2 marker was better than SEU2 in the identification of semen DNA in mixed samples. However, in the identification of individual semen samples, the later marker showed better results than the first one, whereas BLM1 and MENS1 markers were successful in identifying the peripheral and menstrual blood samples, respectively.

Conclusions

This data can be readily used and applied on different forensic samples for tissue identification. Further sequencing studies are strongly recommended.
To Move, to Touch, to Listen: Multisensory Aspects of the Digital Reading Condition
Authors: Stougaard Pedersen Birgitte , Engberg Maria , Have Iben , Henkel Ayoe Quist , Mygind Sarah , Bundgaard Svendsen Helle
Published: June 2021

The article discusses modes of reading that emerge from reading situations that involve literary digital interfaces and digital audiobooks. Building on analyses of sensorial characteristics of the act of reading a digital audiobook and a literary digital app, respectively, the article presents and defines the concept of multisensory reading. This concept emphasizes the literary work's material and performative features, as well as the experienced reading situation. The authors explore how the digital literary interface changes reading situations and argue that new reading habits create a need to renegotiate what it means to read in a digital age. In particular, sensory aspects can be understood as integrally involved in what they term the digital reading condition.
Regimes of Relevance
Authors: Paskaleva Bogdana
Published: June 2021

At the core of this essay is an exploration of the notion of regime of relevance introduced by Galin Tihanov in his monograph The Birth and Death of Literary Theory (2019). On the one hand, the author traces the ramifications of Tihanov’s coinage and demonstrates possible arenas for its further application; on the other, the essay researches the origins of the notion in Michel Foucault’s formulation of regime of truth. After a brief account of the Bulgarian reception of Foucault’s work, the text turns to Foucault’s early monograph The Order of Things (1966) to explore the paths that link Tihanov’s work to Foucault’s and then compares a reconstructed version of Foucault’s project for literary theory to Tihanov’s project.
Radioproteomics in patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: McCague Cathal , Beer Lucian
Published: June 2021

Radioproteomics is the integration of proteomics, the systematic study of the protein expression of an organism, with radiomics, the extraction and analysis of large numbers of quantitative features from medical images. This article examines this developing field, and it’s application in high grade serous ovarian carcinoma. Seminal proteomic studies in the area of ovarian cancer, such as the PROVAR and CPTA studies are discussed, along side recent research, such as that highlighting the central role of methyltransferase nicotinamide N-methyltransferase as the metabolic regulation of cancer progression in the tumour stroma. Finally, this article considers a novel, hypothesis generating approach to integrate CT-based qualitative and radiomic features with proteomic analysis, and the future direction of the field. Combined advances in radiomic, proteomic and genomic analysis has the potential to signal the age of true precision medicine, where treatment is centered specifically on the molecular profile of the tumour, rather than based on empirical knowledge, thus altering the course of a disease that has the highest mortality of all cancers of the female reproductive system.
Tree-based exploration of the optimization objectives for automatic cervical cancer IMRT treatment planning
Authors: Wang Hanlin , Wang Ruoxi , Liu Jiacheng , Zhang Jian , Yao Kaining , Yue Haizhen , Zhang Yibao , You Jing , Wu Hao
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To develop and evaluate a practical automatic treatment planning method for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in cervical cancer cases.

Methods:

A novel algorithm named as Optimization Objectives Tree Search Algorithm (OOTSA) was proposed to emulate the planning optimization process and achieve a progressively improving IMRT plan, based on the Eclipse Scripting Application Programming Interface (ESAPI). 30 previously treated cervical cancer cases were selected from the clinical database and comparison was made between the OOTSA-generated plans and clinical treated plans and RapidPlan-based (RP) plans.

Results:

In clinical evaluation, compared with plan scores of the clinical plans and the RP plans, 22 and 26 of the OOTSA plans were considered as clinically improved in terms of plan quality, respectively. The average conformity index (CI) for the PTV in the OOTSA plans was 0.86 ± 0.01 (mean ± 1 standard deviation), better than those in the RP plans (0.83 ± 0.02) and the clinical plans (0.71 ± 0.11). Compared with the clinical plans, the mean doses of femoral head, rectum, spinal cord and right kidney in the OOTSA plans were reduced by 2.34 ± 2.87 Gy, 1.67 ± 2.10 Gy, 4.12 ± 6.44 Gy and 1.15 ± 2.67 Gy. Compared with the RP plans, the mean doses of femoral head, spinal cord, right kidney and small intestine in the OOTSA plans were reduced by 3.31 ± 1.55 Gy, 4.25 ± 3.69 Gy, 1.54 ± 2.23 Gy and 3.33 ± 1.91 Gy, respectively. In the OOTSA plans, the mean dose of bladder was slightly increased, with 2.33 ± 2.55 Gy (versus clinical plans) and 1.37 ± 1.74 Gy (vs RP plans). The average elapsed time of OOTSA and clinical planning were 59.2 ± 3.47 min and 76.53 ± 5.19 min.

Conclusion:

The plans created by OOTSA have been shown marginally better than the manual plans, especially in preserving OARs. In addition, the time of automatic treatment planning has shown a reduction compared to a manual planning process, and the variation of plan quality was greatly reduced. Although improvement on the algorithm is warranted, this proof-of-concept study has demonstrated that the proposed approach can be a practical solution for automatic planning.

Advances in knowledge:

The proposed method is novel in the emulation strategy of the physicists’ iterative operation during the planning process. Based on the existing optimizers, this method can be a simple yet effective solution for automated IMRT treatment planning.
Facilitators and barriers to stakeholder engagement in advance care planning for older adults in community settings: a hybrid systematic review protocol
Authors: Pilch Monika , Lunt Victoria , May Peter , Mockler David , Thomas Stephen , Doyle Frank
Published: June 2021

Background: Poor stakeholder engagement in advance care planning (ACP) poses national and international challenges, preventing maximisation of its potential benefits. Conceptualisation of advance care planning as a health behaviour highlights the need to design innovative, evidence-based strategies that will facilitate meaningful end-of-life care decision-making.

Aim: To review systematically and synthesise quantitative and qualitative evidence on barriers and facilitators to stakeholders` engagement in ACP for older adults (≥ 50 years old) in a community setting.

Methods: A hybrid systematic review will be conducted, identifying studies for consideration in two phases. First, databases will be searched from inception to identify relevant prior systematic reviews, and assess all studies included in those reviews against eligibility criteria (Phase 1). Second, databases will be searched systematically for individual studies falling outside the timeframe of those reviews (Phase 2). A modified SPIDER framework informed eligibility criteria. A study will be considered if it (a) included relevant adult stakeholders; (b) explored engagement in ACP among older adults (≥50 years old); (c) employed any type of design; (d) identified enablers and/or barriers to events specified in the Organising Framework of ACP Outcomes; (e) used either quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods methodology; and (f) evaluated phenomena of interest in a community setting (e.g., primary care or community healthcare centres). Screening, selection, bias assessment, and data extraction will be completed independently by two reviewers. Integrated methodologies will be employed and quantitative and qualitative data will be combined into a single mixed method synthesis. The Behaviour Change Wheel will be used as an overarching analytical framework and to facilitate interpretation of findings. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Reviewers` Manual and PRISMA-P guidelines have been used to inform this protocol development.

Registration: This protocol has been submitted for registration on PROSPERO, registration number CRD42020189568 and is awaiting review.
Strategic Communications: A Coorientation Approach in Russian and American Universities
Authors: Nesova N.
Published: June 2021

This study focuses on two countries that often dominate international public diplomacy, and examines how Russian and American youth view the current relationship between Russia and the United States. The article promotes research on the theory of co-orientation and proves that coordination can be one of the theoretical foundations in the field of strategic communication. The study first identifies the main issues affecting the relations between the two countries. Then, using the survey methodology, data on these questions is collected from respondents from the United States and Russia. Four main scenarios of co-orientation are considered : monolithic consensus, pluralistic disregard, false consensus, and disagreement. The results of the study show that the type of coordination scenario that best characterizes the relationship between the United States and Russia is disagreement. The results also highlight the status of strategic communication as an interdisciplinary science with the psychological roots of coorientation theory.
Organization of Independent Work of Students of a Medical University in the Process of Forming Professional Foreign Language Communicative Competence
Authors: Krutova I. , Careva L. , Balova I.
Published: June 2021

This article is devoted to the issues of effective organization of medical students’ independent work in the process of development of a professional foreign language communicative competence, which is a complex and multifold pedagogical task. The authors consider the independent extracurricular work of medical students as an integral part of the process of development of a professional foreign language communicative competence. Particular attention is paid to the importance of independent work in the professional training of a future specialist in the field of medicine. When considering the principles of organizing independent extracurricular work of students while teaching the disciplines "Foreign language" and "Foreign language in professional communication of a physician / pediatrician / dentist", the authors were guided by personality-oriented, professionally oriented and competence-based approaches. The types, forms, content of students’ independent work are described in detail, the examples of the organization of students’ independent work in the process of development of a professional foreign language communicative competence while using such pedagogical technologies as the project method and the scenario method are given in the paper. The authors base this research on the personal experience of teaching a foreign language at the department of foreign languages with a course of Russian language at Ryazan state medical university named after academician I.P. Pavlov.
Features of English Terminology in Foreign Professional Communication of Technosphere Safety
Authors: Romanova I. , Ferapontova Yu.
Published: June 2021

The cooperation of the State Fire Service of the Emergency Ministry of Russia with foreign countries as well as the interaction of specialists in the field of technical safety, contribute to professional communication in the relevant areas. Therefore the development and formation of a technical language with terminology and vocabulary used by specialists of various categories in foreign professional communication takes place. The concepts of “term”, “technospheric safety”, “professional terminology in the field of technospheric safety” are described. The distinctive features of the professional term are given such as inter-scientific terminological homonymy, accuracy (mathematical, logical, linguistic). The authors present the main characteristics and properties of professional terminology in the field of technospheric engineering. The authors of the article characterize the national features of professional terminology, which are reflected in the vocabulary and obey phonetic and grammatical rules. The principles for the study of professional terminology in the field of technosphere safety are considered which pose certain difficulties in translation. The article presents the main structural types of terms with examples. Particular attention is paid to the grammatical structure of the English professional sentence.
Effect of nonionic surfactants on the release of paracetamol from suppositories
Authors: Świąder Katarzyna , Zimmer Łukasz , Szumiło Michał , Wojciechowska Katarzyna , Sobótka Karolina , Wośko Sylwia , Poleszak Ewa
Published: June 2021

The preparation suppositories contain 250 mg of paracetamol on different bases using Novata BD, Novata BCF and composition of Novata BCF/BD (1:1). Suppositories were prepared by the fusion method. The prepared formulations with or without surfactants (Tween 80, Span 60) at concentrations of 2% and 4% (w/w) were tested for hardness, to tal time of de for ma tion, disintegration time,
content uniformity and release of the drug. The release of the drug was carried in the apparatus with the stirrer shade in phosphate buffer (pH 7.2) at 100 rpm. The physical properties of the prepared suppositories were according with the requirement of Polish Pharmacopoeia 9th edition. Addition of 4 % Tween 80 to suppository bases significantly increased the drug release from all the investigated formulations. However, incorporation of Span 60 did not result in improvement of the drug release significantly.
Ànalgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of traditional mongolian drug Garidi-5
Authors: Baatartsogt Uuganbayar , Zundui Ariunaa , Sundui Oldokh , Urjin Otgonbaatar , Chimedtseren Chimedragchaa , Ganbold Munkhzul
Published: June 2021

Garidi-5, a traditional medicine composed of 5 herbs including Terminalia chebula Retz., Aconitum Kusnezoffii Reichb., Acorus calamus L., Saussurea lappa L., and musk of Moschus moschiferus, has been used in traditional Mongolian medicine as an analgesic and antibacterial medicine. The present work was undertaken to evaluate the traditional drug Garidi-5 for its anti-inflammatory activity.
Methods. The method of Winter et al. was used to study acute inflammation. Rats in groups of five each were treated with vehicle, Garidi-5 (20, 80 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) and Indometacin (10 mg/kg) one hour prior to Carrageenan injection. 0.1 ml of 1% Carrageenan was injected into the subplantar tissue of left hind paw of each rat. Swelling of carrageenan injected foot was measured at 0, 0.5, 2, 4 h using Plethysmometer (UGO Basile, Italy)). The right hind paw was injected with 0.1 ml of vehicle.
Results. The Garidi-5 (20, 80 and 200 mg/kg) significantly (P<0.01) inhibited carrageenan induced rat paw edema as compared to control group. Maximum inhibition of paw edema was observed with Garidi-5 (80 and 200 mg/kg) at 4 h when compared to the control group. In assay data, the TNF-α secretion in serum were highly elevated by carrageenan induction but administration of Garidi-5 significantly reduced serum secretion of inflammatory mediators as compared to vehicle group.
Conclusion. In conclusion, these results suggested that Mongolian traditional drug Garidi-5 analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
The OMEP ESC Award Scheme
Authors: Siraj-Blatchford John , Moyle Victoria , Brock Lynnette
Published: June 2021

Many aspects of sustainable citizenship and development are part of children's daily lives, and it is children's right to be involved in decisions that affect them. This includes having the opportunity to make sustainable choices at home and in the setting.
PSED through movement and active play
Authors: Swift Tania
Published: June 2021

In this first article of a four-part series on movement and active play, Tania Swift explores how children develop personally, socially and emotionally through movement.
Bubbles and colour
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: June 2021

The sensory aspect of water play strengthens children's learning, adding engagement and excitement. In her series on water play, Jenni Clarke leads us on a creative path through the wide opportunities of experimenting with bubbles and colour.
Try on a no-need-to-worry suit
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: June 2021

During a period in all our lives where worrying and anxiety has reached epic proportions due to the pandemic, take time to read and share some of these great stories and activities with the children in your setting.
Wavelength-tunable Q-switched erbium-doped fiber laser based on a digital
micromirror device
Authors: Wang Wenhao , Lv Yang , Wu Qianwei , Yang Juan , Lv Min , Meng Lei
Published: June 2021

A wavelength-tunable Q-switched erbium-doped fiber laser based on a
digital micromirror device (DMD) is experimentally demonstrated. The
Q-switched pulses are generated by incorporating a saturable
absorption device made of graphene oxide. Stable Q-switched pulses at
1.5 µm band are obtained at a low threshold of 20 mW, corresponding to
the pulse width of  7.1 µs and the repetition rate of 43.3 kHz. The
maximum output power and the maximum pulse energy of the Q-switched
pulses are 260.1 µW and 3.97 nJ, respectively. By controlling the DMD,
the center wavelength of the Q-switched pulses can be tuned from
1528.2 to 1559.3 nm, with a tuning range of about 31 nm. The fine
tunable accuracy can reach 0.08 nm by precisely controlling the DMD.
Combining the filtering characteristics of the DMD with the saturable
absorption characteristics of nanomaterials, the Q-switched laser with
tunable wavelength is realized, which, we believe, is reported for the
first time and has broad application prospects.
Aedes aegypti SNAP and a calcium transporter ATPase influence dengue virus dissemination
Authors: Marin-Lopez Alejandro , Jiang Junjun , Wang Yuchen , Cao Yongguo , MacNeil Tyler , Hastings Andrew K. , Fikrig Erol
Published: June 2021

Dengue virus (DENV) is a flavivirus that causes marked human morbidity and mortality worldwide, and is transmitted to humans by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Habitat expansion of Aedes, mainly due to climate change and increasing overlap between urban and wild habitats, places nearly half of the world’s population at risk for DENV infection. After a bloodmeal from a DENV-infected host, the virus enters the mosquito midgut. Next, the virus migrates to, and replicates in, other tissues, like salivary glands. Successful viral transmission occurs when the infected mosquito takes another blood meal on a susceptible host and DENV is released from the salivary gland via saliva into the skin. During viral dissemination in the mosquito and transmission to a new mammalian host, DENV interacts with a variety of vector proteins, which are uniquely important during each phase of the viral cycle. Our study focuses on the interaction between DENV particles and protein components in the A. aegypti vector. We performed a mass spectrometry assay where we identified a set of A. aegypti salivary gland proteins which potentially interact with the DENV virion. Using dsRNA to silence gene expression, we analyzed the role of these proteins in viral infectivity. Two of these candidates, a synaptosomal-associated protein (AeSNAP) and a calcium transporter ATPase (ATPase) appear to play a role in viral replication both in vitro and in vivo, observing a ubiquitous expression of these proteins in the mosquito. These findings suggest that AeSNAP plays a protective role during DENV infection of mosquitoes and that ATPase protein is required for DENV during amplification within the vector.
Research on the coordination of energy in China’s economic growth
Authors: Chi Yuanying , Bai Guoqing , Li Jialin , Chen Bin
Published: June 2021

This study uses the improved Cobb-Douglas two-factor production function model to explore the potential relationship between economic growth and energy consumption through the multiple co-integration test on the panel data of China from 1985 to 2018. The results show that there is a positive long-term balance between energy consumption and economic growth: economic growth of 1%, total energy consumption growth of 1.53%, which means that economic growth needs higher energy support in the former short term. At the same time, the error correction term will converge energy consumption to a long-term equilibrium state with an adjustment intensity of 134.59%. From the results of variance decomposition, we can also see that as the number of periods increases, the part of real economic growth explained by energy consumption gradually increases.
Development of the Bristol Rabbit Pain Scale (BRPS): A multidimensional composite pain scale specific to rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Benato Livia , Murrell Joanna , Knowles Toby G. , Rooney Nicola J.
Published: June 2021

A species-specific composite pain scale is a prerequisite for adequate pain assessment. The aim of this study was to develop a multidimensional pain scale specific to rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) called the Bristol Rabbit Pain Scale (BRPS). The scale was developed over five phases using a unique combination of methods: focus groups and behavioural observation. The first two phases aimed at identifying descriptors to describe a rabbit in pain, and then reducing their number, both using focus groups. A total of 72 pain descriptors were grouped under six categories (Demeanour, Posture, Facial expression, Attention to the painful area, Audible and Other) and ‘No pain’ descriptors were added. The third phase aimed to confirm, through video observation of rabbits, the categories and descriptors previously described, to reject those terms that were ambiguous, and identify any new descriptors that had not been included in the previous list of descriptors. This led to the rejection of the categories Audible and Attention to the painful area and of 34 descriptors. Seven new descriptors were identified. The last two phases constructed the final format of the BRPS by refining the categories, ranking the descriptors on an ordinal scale and testing the internal reliability of the scale using Cronbach’s alpha test. This led to a composite pain scale of six categories (Demeanour, Posture, Locomotion, Ears, Eyes and Grooming) with four intensities of pain (0, 1, 2, and 3), a total score of 0–18, and a high Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (alpha = 0.843). This BRPS fills an important gap in the field of rabbit medicine and has the potential to improve the assessment and management of pain in rabbits providing veterinary professionals with a novel multidimensional pain assessment tool. Further studies will investigate the clinical utility, validity and reliability of the BRPS.
Genetic diversity and inter-trait relationship of tropical extra-early maturing quality protein maize inbred lines under low soil nitrogen stress
Authors: Abu Pearl , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Ifie Beatrice E. , Tongoona Pangirayi , Melomey Leander D. , Offei Samuel K.
Published: June 2021

Information on the genetic diversity, population structure, and trait associations of germplasm resources is crucial for predicting hybrid performance. The objective of this study was to dissect the genetic diversity and population structure of extra-early yellow and orange quality protein maize (QPM) inbred lines and identify secondary traits for indirect selection for enhanced grain yield under low-soil nitrogen (LN). One hundred and ten inbred lines were assessed under LN (30 kg ha-1) and assayed for tryptophan content. The lines were genotyped using 2500 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Majority (85.4%) of the inbred lines exhibited wide pairwise genetic distances between 0.4801 and 0.600. Genetic distances were wider between yellow and orange endosperm lines and predicted high heterosis in crosses between parents of different endosperm colors. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) and the admixture model-based population structure method both grouped the lines into five clusters. The clustering was based on endosperm color, pedigree, and selection history but not on LN tolerance or tryptophan content. Genotype by trait biplot analysis revealed association of grain yield with plant height and ear height. TZEEQI 394 and TZEEIORQ 73A had high expressivity for these traits. Indirect selection for high grain yield among the inbred lines could be achieved using plant and ear heights as selection criteria. The wide genetic variability observed in this study suggested that the inbred lines could be important sources of beneficial alleles for LN breeding programs in SSA.
Co-expression analysis identifies neuro-inflammation as a driver of sensory neuron aging in Aplysia californica
Authors: Kron N. S. , Fieber L. A.
Published: June 2021

Aging of the nervous system is typified by depressed metabolism, compromised proteostasis, and increased inflammation that results in cognitive impairment. Differential expression analysis is a popular technique for exploring the molecular underpinnings of neural aging, but technical drawbacks of the methodology often obscure larger expression patterns. Co-expression analysis offers a robust alternative that allows for identification of networks of genes and their putative central regulators. In an effort to expand upon previous work exploring neural aging in the marine modelAplysia californica, we used weighted gene correlation network analysis to identify co-expression networks in a targeted set of aging sensory neurons in these animals. We identified twelve modules, six of which were strongly positively or negatively associated with aging. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes analysis and investigation of central module transcripts identified signatures of metabolic impairment, increased reactive oxygen species, compromised proteostasis, disrupted signaling, and increased inflammation. Although modules with immune character were identified, there was no correlation between genes in Aplysia that increased in expression with aging and the orthologous genes in oyster displaying long-term increases in expression after a virus-like challenge. This suggests anti-viral response is not a driver of Aplysia sensory neuron aging.
Experiences with implementation of continuous positive airway pressure for neonates and infants in low-resource settings: A scoping review
Authors: Dada Sara , Ashworth Henry , Sobitschka Alina , Raguveer Vanitha , Sharma Rupam , Hamilton Rebecca L. , Burke Thomas
Published: June 2021

Background

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard of care in providing non-invasive positive pressure support to neonates in respiratory distress in high-resource settings. While safety has been demonstrated in low-resource settings, there is a lack of knowledge on the barriers and facilitators to proper implementation.

Objective

To identify and describe the barriers, facilitators, and priorities for future implementation of CPAP for neonates and infants in low-resource settings.

Methods

A systematic search (database inception to March 6, 2020) was performed on MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Global Health, and the WHO Global Index Medicus using PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Original research articles pertaining to implementation of CPAP devices in low-resource settings, provider or parent perspectives and experiences with CPAP, cost-benefit analyses, and cost-effectiveness studies were included. Inductive content analysis was conducted.

Findings

1385 article were screened and 54 studies across 19 countries met inclusion criteria. Six major themes emerged: device attributes, patient experiences, parent experiences, provider experiences, barriers, and facilitators. Nasal trauma was the most commonly reported complication. Barriers included unreliable electricity and lack of bioengineering support. Facilitators included training, mentorship and empowerment of healthcare providers. Device design, supply chain infrastructure, and training models were imperative to the adoption and sustainability of CPAP.

Conclusion

Sustainable implementation of CPAP in low resource settings requires easy-to-use devices, ready access to consumables, and holistic, user-driven training. Further research is necessary on standardizing metrics, interventions that support optimal provider performance, and conditions needed for successful long-term health system integration.
Making voluntary medical male circumcision services sustainable: Findings from Kenya’s pilot models, baseline and year 1
Authors: Davis Stephanie M. , Owuor Nandi , Odoyo-June Elijah , Wambua Jonesmus , Omanga Eunice , Lukobo Mainza , Laube Catharine , Mwandi Zebedee , Suraratdecha Chutima , Kioko Urbanus M. , Rotich Wesley , Kataka Jacquin , Ng’eno Caroline , Mohan Diwakar , Toledo Carlos , Aoko Appolonia , Anyango John , Oneya Daniel , Orenjuro Kennedy , Mgamb Elizabeth , Serrem Kennedy , Juma Ambrose
Published: June 2021

Voluntary medical male circumcision is a crucial HIV prevention program for men in sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya is one of the first countries to achieve high population coverage and seek to transition the program to a more sustainable structure designed to maintain coverage while making all aspects of service provision domestically owned and implemented. Using pre-defined metrics, we created and evaluated three models of circumcision service delivery (static, mobile and mixed) to identify which had potential for sustaining high circumcision coverage among 10-14-year-olds group, a historically high-demand and accessible age group, at the lowest possible cost. We implemented each model in two distinct geographic areas, one in Siaya and the other in Migori county, and assessed multiple aspects of each model’s sustainability. These included numerical achievements against targets designed to reach 80% coverage over two years; quantitative expenditure outcomes including unit expenditure plus its primary drivers; and qualitative community perception of program quality and sustainability based on Likert scale. Outcome values at baseline were compared with those for year one of model implementation using bivariate linear regression, unpaired t-tests and Wilcoxon rank tests as appropriate. Across models, numerical target achievement ranged from 45–140%, with the mixed models performing best in both counties. Unit expenditures varied from approximately $57 in both countries at baseline to $44-$124 in year 1, with the lowest values in the mixed and static models. Mean key informant perception scores generally rose significantly from baseline to year 1, with a notable drop in the area of community engagement. Consistently low scores were in the aspects of domestic financing for service provision. Sustainability-focused circumcision service delivery models can successfully achieve target volumes at lower unit expenditures than existing models, but strategies for domestic financing remain a crucial challenge to address for long-term maintenance of the program.
Ontogenetic shape trajectory of Trichomycterus areolatus varies in response to water velocity environment
Authors: Searle Peter C. , Mercer Margaret , Habit Evelyn , Belk Mark C.
Published: June 2021

Body and head shape among fishes both vary between environments influenced by water velocity and across ontogeny. Although the shape changes associated with variation in average water velocity and ontogeny are well documented, few studies have tested for the interaction between these two variables (i.e., does ontogenetic shape variation differ between velocity environments). We use geometric morphometrics to characterize shape differences in Trichomycterus areolatus, a freshwater catfish found in high and low-velocity environments in Chile. We identify a significant interaction between velocity environment and body size (i.e., ontogeny). Ontogenetic patterns of shape change are consistent with other studies, but velocity environment differentially affects the ontogenetic trajectory of shape development in T. areolatus. Shape change over ontogeny appears more constrained in high-velocity environments compared to low-velocity environments.
An imaging approach for determining the mechanism of enhancement of intestinal absorption of an L-theanine supplement
Authors: Sato Yuki , Yamaguchi Kazuki , Ogawa Mikako , Takekuma Yoh , Sugawara Mitsuru
Published: June 2021

Background & objective

Theanine (L-glutamylethylamide) contained in green tea is a functional food component that has been attracting attention due to its relaxation effect. It was shown that the ingredients added to the theanine formulations increased the absorption of theanine. If this mechanism can be elucidated, it would be possible to contribute to development of evidence-based formulations. In this study, we investigated the effect of ingredients in the formulations on the absorption of theanine in detail.

Main methods

After oral administration of a mixture of theanine and additional components to Wistar rats the plasma concentration was determined by an HPLC and the pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. In addition, a new system for evaluating intestinal blood flow was developed since the involvement of intestinal blood flow was considered as a factor that increased absorption of theanine.

Key findings

Plasma concentration of theanine increased significantly in the combined use group with eight ingredients containing piperine as compared with theanine only group. Piperine would increase theanine absorption by increased blood flow, not an inhibition of metabolism. We succeeded to develop a visual and quantitative system to evaluate the effect of these ingredients directly including piperine on the intestinal blood flow using indocyanine green while maintaining physiological conditions.

Significance

Increased intestinal blood flow by these ingredients including piperine enhanced the absorption of theanine. Other mechanisms may also be considered as the mechanism by which theanine absorption is increased in addition to increased blood flow.
Automatic classification of medical image modality and anatomical location using convolutional neural network
Authors: Chiang Chen-Hua , Weng Chi-Lun , Chiu Hung-Wen
Published: June 2021

Modern radiologic images comply with DICOM (digital imaging and communications in medicine) standard, which, upon conversion to other image format, would lose its image detail and information such as patient demographics or type of image modality that DICOM format carries. As there is a growing interest in using large amount of image data for research purpose and acquisition of large amount of medical image is now a standard practice in the clinical setting, efficient handling and storage of large amount of image data is important in both the clinical and research setting. In this study, four classes of images were created, namely, CT (computed tomography) of abdomen, CT of brain, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of brain and MRI of spine. After converting these images into JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format, our proposed CNN architecture could automatically classify these 4 groups of medical images by both their image modality and anatomic location. We achieved excellent overall classification accuracy in both validation and test sets (> 99.5%), specificity and F1 score (> 99%) in each category of this dataset which contained both diseased and normal images. Our study has shown that using CNN for medical image classification is a promising methodology and could work on non-DICOM images, which could potentially save image processing time and storage space.