bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry Broken Josephson Junctions and Superconducting Diodes in Magic Angle Twisted Bilayer Graphene
Authors: Efetov Dmitri , Díez-Mérida Jaime , Díez-Carlón Andres , Yang Shuoying , Xie Yingming , Gao Xue-Jian , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Senior Jorden , Higginbotham Andrew , Lu Xiaobo , Law Kam Tuen
Published: January 2023

The simultaneous co-existence and gate-tuneability of the superconducting (SC), magnetic and topological orders in magic angle twisted bilayer graphene (MATBG) open up entirely new possibilities for the creation of complex hybrid Josephson junctions (JJ). Here we report on the creation of gate-defined, symmetry broken Josephson junctions in MATBG, where the weak link is gate-tuned close to the correlated state at a moiré filling factor of 𝛖 = -2. A highly unconventional Fraunhofer pattern emerges, in which supercurrent is carried by edge states, it is phase-shifted and asymmetric with respect to the current and magnetic field directions, and shows a pronounced magnetic hysteresis. Interestingly, our theoretical calculations of the JJ with a valley polarized υ = -2 with orbital magnetization as the weak link explain most of these unconventional features without fine tuning the parameters. While these unconventional Josephson effects persist up to the critical temperature Tc ~ 3.5 K of the superconducting state, at temperatures below T < 800 mK, we observed a pronounced magnetic hysteresis. We demonstrate how the combination of magnetization and its current induced magnetization switching in the MATBG JJ allows us to realize a programmable zero field superconducting diode, which represents a major building block for a new generation of superconducting quantum electronics.
Enabling endpoint development for interventional clinical trials in individuals with Angelman syndrome: a prospective, longitudinal, observational clinical study (FREESIAS)
Authors: Tjeertes Jorrit , Bacino Carlos A. , Bichell Terry Jo , Bird Lynne M. , Bustamante Mariana , Crean Rebecca , Jeste Shafali , Komorowski Robert W. , Krishnan Michelle L. , Miller Meghan T. , Nobbs David , Ochoa-Lubinoff Cesar , Parkerson Kimberly A. , Rotenberg Alexander , Sadhwani Anjali , Shen Mark D. , Squassante Lisa , Tan Wen-Hann , Vincenzi Brenda , Wheeler Anne C. , Hipp Joerg F. , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth
Published: January 2023

Background:
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder with developmental, behavioral, and medical challenges caused by absence of functional UBE3A. AS has unmet treatment needs and no approved therapies address its underlying pathophysiology. To develop new therapies, comprehensive data are needed for identification of appropriate endpoints to assess meaningful improvements. The FREESIAS study evaluated the feasibility and utility of in-clinic and at-home measures of key AS symptoms, and potential biomarkers.
Methods:
Fifty-five individuals with AS (aged < 5 years: n = 16, 5–12 years: n = 27, ≥ 18 years: n = 12; deletion genotype: n = 40, nondeletion genotype: n = 15) and 20 typically developing children (aged 1–12 years) were enrolled across six USA sites. The study tested several clinical outcome assessments (COAs), overnight electroencephalography (EEG) with 19 leads and additional polysomnography (PSG) sensors, and several digital health technologies (DHTs). Assessments were planned for baseline (Clinic Visit 1) and 12 months later (Clinic Visit 2), and for intermittent home visits.
Results:
Most COAs had high completion rates, with 89–100% and 76–91% adherence at Clinic Visit 1 and Visit 2, respectively. Feasibility of and adherence to DHTs varied by assessment, and uptake of and/or adherence to some measures was impacted by COVID-19. Bayley-III results were comparable to available natural history data, which show similar scores between individuals aged > 18 and those aged 5–12 years. Better performance was observed on most COAs for participants without a deletion versus those with a deletion. PSG/EEG recordings at home visits were impacted by COVID-19 but otherwise feasible. The AS EEG phenotype of excess delta-band power measured here was consistent with prior reports.
Conclusions:
While feasible COAs and DHTs were identified based on adherence, improved measures to assess meaningful change in AS are needed. Remote assessment facilitated high adherence levels despite the COVID-19 pandemic and results suggested that at-home PSG/EEG may be a feasible alternative to in-clinic EEG assessments. These data support the selection of COAs for holistically assessing change in interventional clinical trials in AS. A combination of in-clinic and remote/at-home COAs, DHTs, and PSG/EEG can support protocol adherence, reduce patient burden, and optimize study outcomes in rare disease populations such as AS.
Smallest Scale Magnetic Field Compressions Generated by the Solar Wind Interaction with the Moon
Authors: Nakagawa Tomoko , Takahashi Futoshi , Saito Yoshifumi , Shimizu Hisayoshi
Published: January 2023

Short-period magnetic enhancements were detected by the MAP-LMAG magnetometer onboard Kaguya orbiting the moon in solar wind at an altitude of 100 km. The duration was typically 10 seconds, which corresponds to 0.5 degrees in latitude along the Kaguya orbit and a scale size of 15 km. The magnitude of the magnetic field was enhanced up to 1.5 to 3.6 times as large as that of the preceding quiet periods. No such magnetic enhancements were found in the upstream solar wind magnetic field. The short-period magnetic enhancements were categorized into 2 groups. One is the smallest scale limb compression detected at the terminator region of the moon in a nearly constant solar wind magnetic field. The magnetic field flared away from the moon consistently with the previously known limb compressions. It was detected in a low dynamic pressure of the solar wind, which is a favorable condition for the detection of limb compressions, with no recurrence. No intense local magnetic field was identified at the foot of the magnetic field line of the limb compression. The scale size deduced from the duration was as small as 11 km, 85 times as small as that of previously reported limb compressions. The other types of magnetic enhancements appeared at the magnetic discontinuities of the solar wind magnetic field, similar to the hot flow anomalies observed at the Earth’s bow shock. A similar high-pressure structure that compresses the ambient magnetic field can be generated by the solar wind ions reflected at the moon channeled back along the current sheet of a tangential discontinuity when the motional electric field points toward the current sheet. The hot ions themselves were not detected on the nightside of the moon, while the magnetic field compressed by the expanding region can penetrate through the moon to be detected as magnetic field enhancements on the nightside of the moon.
Rapid uptake of gold ions by sulfonated humic acid-derived phenolic resin composite with high adsorption capacity and selectivity
Authors: Hou Kun , Xu Xinshuai , Xiang Yong , Chen Xiangmeng , Lam Su Shiung , Ge Shengbo
Published: January 2023

Adsorption capacity, selectivity and adsorption rate are all important indicators to judge the performance of an adsorbent. At present, most of the studies on gold recovery with adsorbents have weakened the consideration of adsorption efficiency. Therefore, there is a need to develop an adsorbent with fast adsorption rate for gold ions to ensure high adsorption capacity and selectivity. Here, we report two humic acid-derived sulfonated resins (SHAR and NSHAR) using sulfuric acid and sodium sulfite as sulfonating agents respectively, which were prepared by a simple two-step method using water as solvent. They can recover Au(III) quickly and efficiently from mixed metals (Fe(III), Mn(Ⅱ), Cu(Ⅱ), Cr(III), Mg(Ⅱ), Ni(Ⅱ), Sn(Ⅱ), Co(Ⅱ), Pb(Ⅱ) and Zn(Ⅱ)). Adsorption behavior and mechanism of Au(III) on SHAR and NSHAR were studied. The Freundlich isotherm model and the Pseudo-second-order kinetic model are suitably for the description of Au(III) behavior meaning that the process belongs to multi-molecular chemical adsorption. Furthermore, adsorption thermodynamic study indicates that the adsorption of Au(III) on SHAR and NSHAR is endothermic and spontaneous. Different from conventional adsorbents, Au(III) are reduced to element gold and deposited on the adsorbent. NSHAR takes only 10 min to reach adsorption equilibrium, and the adsorption capacity is up to 927 mg·g− 1 (SHAR needs 50 min with capacity of 1440 mg·g− 1). This research provides a new scheme and idea for quickly and efficiently recovering gold.
Machine-learning predicts time-series prognosis factors in metastatic prostate cancer patients treated with androgen deprivation therapy
Authors: Saito Shinpei , Sakamoto Shinichi , Higuchi Kosuke , Sato Kodai , Zhao Xue , Wakai Ken , Kanesaka Manato , Kamada Shuhei , Takeuchi Nobuyoshi , Sazuka Tomokazu , Imamura Yusuke , Anzai Naohiko , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Kawakami Eiryo
Published: January 2023

Machine learning technology is expected to support diagnosis and prognosis prediction in medicine. We used machine learning to construct a new prognostic prediction model for prostate cancer patients based on longitudinal data obtained from age at diagnosis, peripheral blood and urine tests of 340 prostate cancer patients. Random survival forest (RSF) and survival tree were used for machine learning. In the time-series prognostic prediction model for metastatic prostate cancer patients, the RSF model showed better prediction accuracy than the conventional Cox proportional hazards model for almost all time periods of progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Based on the RSF model, we created a clinically applicable prognostic prediction model using survival trees for OS and CSS by combining the values of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) before starting treatment and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) at 120 days after treatment. Machine learning provides useful information for predicting the prognosis of metastatic prostate cancer prior to treatment intervention by considering the nonlinear and combined impacts of multiple features. The addition of data after the start of treatment would allow for more precise prognostic risk assessment of patients and would be beneficial for subsequent treatment selection.
"God is my psychologist": How explanatory models of mental health influence healthcare-seeking behaviour among first generation East-African migrants in Belgium
Authors: Apers Hanne , Praag Lore Van , Nöstlinger Christiana , de Velde Sarah Van
Published: January 2023

Background: Explanatory models of mental health are culturally and socially defined and influence mental healthcare-seeking behaviour. This qualitative study explores the explanatory models of mental health among first-generation East-African migrants in Belgium and how these models influence their mental healthcare-seeking behaviour.
Methods: Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted and analysed in a reflexive, thematical manner.
Results: Results show that participants perceived discrepancies in how mental health is conceptualised between their region of origin and Belgium. In their cultures of origin, mental health is associated with 'craziness', and causes are rather sought in social, religious, or supernatural contexts. Participants also experienced differences in the openness to discuss mental health. Most participants held on to the mental healthcare-seeking behaviour of their country of origin: they relied on informal social and religious support systems and did not seek conventional mental healthcare. Participants who were more familiar with the prevailing explanatory models within Belgium, were more likely to use conventional mental health services.
Conclusions: Participants generally hold on to help-seeking strategies as applied in their countries of origin, but are more prone towards using conventional services if they are more familiar with or are positively oriented towards adopting aspects of the dominant explanatory model of mental health. Further research is needed to study the link between integration processes and mental healthcare-seeking behaviour.
Anti-Alzheimers molecular mechanism of icariin: Insights from gut microbiota and metabolome combined network pharmacology
Authors: Liu Yuqing , Li Hongli , Wang Xiaowei , Huang Jianghua , Zhao Di , Tan Yejun , Zhang Zheyu , Zhang Zhen , Zhu Lemei , Wu Beibei , Chen Zhibao , Peng Weijun
Published: January 2023

Background
Icariin (ICA), an active ingredient extracted from a natural plant called Epimedii, has shown a broad application prospect in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nevertheless, its potential therapeutic mechanism remains largely unknown.The present study aims to investigate the therapeutic effect and the underlying mechanism of ICA on AD by an integrated analysis of gut microbiota and metabolomics.
Methods
The cognitive impairment of mice was measured using the Morris Water Maze. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to identify the AD-induced pathologic change. 16S rRNA sequencing and multi-metabolomics were performed to analyze the alterations in microbiota and serum/fecal metabolism.
Results
Our results demonstrated that ICA intervention could markedly improve cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice and typical AD pathologies in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice. Gut microbiota analysis showed that ICA administration could reverse the imbalance of gut microbes in APP/PS1 mice by elevating the proportion of Akkermansia and reducing the proportion of Alistipe. Metabolomic analysis revealed AD-induced metabolic disorder was improved by ICA via glycerophospholipid metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism. Correlation analysis suggested that these were closely related to the abundance of Alistipe and Akkermansia.
Conclusion
These findings indicated that ICA may serve as a promising therapeutic approach for AD, and that the ICA-mediated protective effects were associated with the amelioration of microbiota disturbance and metabolic disorder.
Fusion of multi-regression models based on the histogram information for blood glucose estimation
Authors: Wei Yiting , Guo Weizhi , Ling Bingo Wing-Kuen , Dai Yuheng , Liu Qing
Published: January 2023

Diabetes is a chronic disease that severely degrades the human health. Hence, the blood glucose estimation plays an important role for monitoring the diabetic condition. In order to better estimate the blood glucose values, the multi-regression models are employed. It is worth noting that increasing the total number of the regression models would decrease the regression error. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for fusing the various regression models together based on the histogram information of the blood glucose values in the training set. The computer numerical simulation results show that the regression error yielded by our proposed method is significantly lower than those yielded by the existing methods. Also, our proposed method is also applicable for other regression applications.
Bio-synthesis of lead oxide nanoparticles using Chinese Mahogany plant extract (CMPE@LO) for photocatalytic and antimicrobial activities
Authors: Sharma Arush , Kumar Ajay , Gautam Manjula , Kumari Swati , Thakur Manita
Published: January 2023

The current study describes the plant-mediated synthesis of lead oxide nanoparticles using a plant extract from Chinese Mahogany. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized using techniques like Fourier transform infrared spectrogram (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA). XRD results confirmed the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles. The Chinese Mahogany plant extract-lead oxide (CMPE@LO) nanoparticles were used to evaluate photocatalytic behavior against fast green (FG). It was observed that 90.22 % of fast green (FG) has been removed within 3 hours. The various operating parameters such as effect of time, concentration of fast green and photo catalyst amount were also studied and optimized for maximum removal. The kinetic study was investigated using pseudo-first model having good value of regression coefficient (R2). The antibacterial properties of the prepared nanoparticle against several bacteria including B. subtilis, S. aureus, and E. coli, were also investigated. The synthesized CMPE@LO nanoparticles shows higher zone of inhibition as compared to inorganic or organic moiety.
The five-item modified frailty index predicts long-term outcomes in elderly patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Ogata Toshiro , Sadakari Yoshihiko , Nakane Hiroyuki , Koikawa Kazuhiro , Kanno Hiroki , Kohata Ryo , Endo Kayoko , Tsukahara Takao , Shimonaga Koichiro , Kaneshiro Kazuhisa , Hirokata Gentaro , Aoyagi Takeshi , Tsutsumi Chiyo , Taniguchi Masahiko
Published: January 2023

Background.Frailty has been globally recognized as a predictor of adverse postoperative outcome. A frailty assessment using the five-factor modified frailty index (5-mFI) has recently gained traction; however, long-term outcomes are largely unknown in colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether the 5-mFI predicted long-term survival and cause of death based on severity of frailty in elderly patients with CRC surgery, as well as to determine risk factors for mortality.Methods.299 patients underwent CRC surgery with curative intent between January 2013 and December 2017. Patients were divided into three groups based on their 5-mFI score: group 1 (5-mFI: 0, 1; n=164) with no frailty, group 2 (5-mFI: 2; n=91) with moderate frailty, and group 3 (5-mFI≧3; n=44) with severe frailty. Clinicopathological variables including comorbidity, 5-mFI, prognostic nutrition index (PNI), operative/postoperative data, and outcome including cause of death were compared among three groups. To identify factors associated with death from CRC and non-CRC-related causes, univariate and multivariate analyses using the Cox regression model were performed.Results.Immediate postoperativemorbidity of patients with Clavien-Dindo grades of III or greater (9.1%) in group 3 were not statistically different from that in group 1 (9.1%) or group 2 (14.3%); however, the 30-day mortality rate (4.5%) in group 3 was significantly higher. Long-term disease-free survival was similar among frailty groups, suggesting CRC surgery provides oncological benefit to patients irrespective of frailty. The 5-year survival in groups 1, 2, and 3 were 83.5%, 71.2%, and 47.9%, respectively, showing a significantly lower survival rate as frailty advances. Sixty percent of deaths in frail patients were primarily from respiratory failure and cardiovascular diseases. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that advanced age, higher 5-mFI, and longer postoperative hospital stay were risk factors for mortality unrelated to CRC. Multivariate analysis also revealed that advanced tumor stage, CEA>5 ng/ml, undifferentiated tumorand R1 resection were risk factors for CRC death.Conclusion.The 5-mFI can be a predictor of postoperative short- and long- term outcomes and risk factors for mortality unrelated to CRC. In addition, long-term survival was shown to be negatively associated with the 5-mFI score.
Facile one-pot green synthesis of almond gum coated MgO nanoparticles for Biological applications
Authors: Ganapathi Meenu Pragathi , Balasubramanian Balamuralikrishnan , Chinnasamy Balalakshmi
Published: January 2023

The increasing resistance of pathogens and cancer cells to antibiotics and anticancer drugs has sparked the discovery of novel therapeutic materials. Recently, the utilization of plant compounds and byproducts in nanomaterials fabrications has great attention in biomedicine and bioremediation. In this work, almond gum coated MgO nanoparticles were synthesized by a simple green synthesis method. The physicochemical properties of prepared nanoparticles were systematically evaluated using various microscopic and spectroscopy techniques. The biological potential of AG@MgO nanoparticles was evaluated against human infectious pathogens, (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae). The anticancer potential of nanoparticles was assessed against MCF-7 a breast cancer cell which shows excellent cell damage in the lowest concentration. The larvicidal potential of nanoparticles was evaluated against Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae, the mortality rate of larvae increases as the concentration ratio of AG@MgO nanoparticles increases. The final results concluded that the AG@MgO nanoparticles efficiently control bacterial, breast cancer cell growth, and mosquito larvae.
Improved methods for characterizing emulsions by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Sørland Geir Humborstad , Less Simone , Alkhabbaz Sajjad , Simon Sébastien
Published: January 2023

The use of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is an appropriate tool for studying colloids in a non-invasive manner. Droplet size distributions and one-dimensional sample profiles are readily produced to characterize an emulsion, its stability, the size distribution of the dispersed phase, and rheological behavior with respect to parameters as temperature and/or water cut. Here, we present Pulsed Field Gradient NMR methods that improve the performance as compared to existing methods. In particular, the so-called multi-echo approach is introduced to enhance the signal to noise ratio significantly making it possible to characterize emulsions in a minute or less. Thus, any evolution that takes place in the order of just a few minutes can be monitored. In addition to the multi-echo approach, an improved method for determining the droplet size distribution from a residual emulsion, i.e. in the presence of a bulk water phase, is presented.
Internet-based stress recovery intervention for adolescents: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zelviene Paulina , Kairyte Agniete , Dumarkaite Austeja , Nomeikaite Auguste , Kazlauskas Evaldas
Published: January 2023

Background. Mental health in adolescence are highly related to life-stressors exposure and difficulties in adjusting to stressors. Research reveals a high prevalence of stressors in adolescence. Therefore, interventions for recovery from stress are in high demand. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the internet-based stress recovery intervention for adolescents.
Methods: A two-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) on the efficacy of the FOREST-A – an internet-based stress recovery intervention for adolescents – will be conducted. The FOREST-A is an adapted version of stress recovery intervention initially developed for healthcare workers. FOREST-A is a third-wave cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based internet-delivered 4-week psychosocial intervention, which comprises six modules: Introduction, Relaxation, Psychological detachment, Mastery, Control, and Summary. The intervention will be evaluated using the two-arm RCT with intervention and care as usual (CAU) condition at pre-test, post-test, and 3-month follow-up. The measured outcomes will be stress recovery, adjustment disorder, generalized anxiety and depression symptoms, psychological well-being, and perceived positive social support.
Discussion: The study will contribute to the development of internet interventions – easily and broadly accessible tools – for the enhancement of adolescents' recovery from stress skills. Based on the study's findings, further development of the FOREST-A, including upscaling and implementation, is foreseen.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05688254. Registered on January 6, 2023.
Outcome of COVID-19 patients with haematological malignancies after the introduction of vaccination and monoclonal antibodies: results from the HM-COV 2.0 study
Authors: Oliva Alessandra , Dezza Francesco Cogliati , Petrucci Flavia , Romani Francesco Eugenio , Morviducci Matteo , Mirabelli Flavio Marco , Cancelli Francesca , Valeriani Emanuele , Marcelli Giulia , Pugliese Francesco , Turriziani Ombretta , Ricci Paolo , Venditti Mario , Palange Paolo , Mastroianni Claudio Maria
Published: January 2023

Purpose. Patients with hematological malignancies (HM) and SARS-CoV-2 infection present a higher risk of severe COVID-19 and mortality. The aim of the study was to investigate whether vaccination and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have modified the outcomes of HM patients with COVID-19.Methods. Single-center retrospective study in HM patients hospitalized due to SARS-CoV-2 infection from March 2020 to April 2022. Patients were divided into PRE-V-mAb group (patients hospitalized before the introduction of vaccination and mAbs) and POST-V-mAb group (patients hospitalized after the use of vaccine and mAbs).Results. A total of 126 patients were included (65 PRE-V-mAb and 61 POST-V-mAb). POST-V-mAb patients showed a significantly lower risk of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission (8.2% vs 27.7%, p=0.005), shorter viral shedding [17 (IQR 10-28) vs 24 days (IQR 15-50), p=0.011] and shorter hospitalization length [13 (IQR 7-23) vs 20 (IQR 14-41) days, p=0.0003] compared to the PRE-V-mAb group. Nevertheless, both in-hospital and 30-day mortality rates did not significantly differ between the two groups (29.5% POST-V-mAb vs 36.9% PRE-V-mAb and 21.3% POST-V-mAb vs 29.2% PRE-V-mAb, respectively). At the multivariable analysis an active malignancy (p=0.042), a critical COVID-19 at admission (p=0.025) and the need for high-level of oxygen support at respiratory worsening [either HFNC/CPAP (p=0.022) or Mechanical Ventilation (p=0.011)] were independently associated with in-hospital mortality. In the subgroup of POST-V-mAb patients, receiving therapy with mAbs was a protective factor (p=0.033).Conclusion. Despite the new therapeutic and preventive strategies available, HM patients with COVID-19 disease represent an extremely vulnerable group with still high mortality rates.
Cross-section measurements for 68Zn(p,2p)67Cu and 68Zn(p,2n)67Ga reactions using a newly developed separation method for the superposed γ-ray spectra
Authors: Jung Myung-Hwan , Cho Won-Je , Jang Hye Min , Chun Kwon-Soo , Lee Jae Sang , Kim Sang Wook , Park Jun Kue
Published: January 2023

We have developed a new analytical peak separation analysis for superposed γ-ray peaks on 67Cu and 67Ga to measure the 68Zn(p,2p)67Cu and 68Zn(p,2n)67Ga reactions, unlike in most previous works that were employing a radiochemical separation to measure them. Based on the nuclear data such as the γ-ray intensity and the half-life for each nuclide, we may develop a new analytical method that enables us to estimate the respective counts arising from each nuclide, thereby obtaining the nuclear reactions. In comparison with the data in the literature, the two reactions in the present work are in good agreement with those of some previous works. In addition, we compared the present 68Zn(p,2n)67Ga reaction without the peak separation to the data in the literature without the chemical separation, and find that a good agreement is evident, enhancing the reliability of the 68Zn(p,x)65Zn and 68Zn(p,3n)66Ga reactions, which are further measured in the present work.
2D/3D Ultrasound Diagnosis of Pediatric Distal Radius Fractures by Human Readers vs Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Knight Jessica , Zhou YuYue , Keen Christopher , Hareendranathan Abhilash Rakkunedeth , Alves-Pereira Fatima , Ghasseminia Siyavash , Wichuk Stephanie , Brilz Alan , Kirschner David , Jaremko Jacob
Published: January 2023

Wrist trauma is common in children and generally requires radiography for exclusion of fractures, subjecting children to radiation and long wait times in the emergency department. Ultrasound (US) has potential to be a safer, faster diagnostic tool. This study aimed to determine how reliably US could detect distal radius fractures in children, to contrast the accuracy of 2DUS to 3DUS, and to assess the utility of artificial intelligence for image interpretation. 127 children were scanned with 2DUS and 3DUS on the affected wrist. US scans were then read by 7 blinded human readers and an AI model. With radiographs used as the gold standard, expert human readers obtained a mean sensitivity of 0.97 and 0.98 for 2DUS and 3DUS respectively. The AI model sensitivity was 0.91 and 1.00 for 2DUS and 3DUS respectively. Study data suggests that 2DUS is comparable to 3DUS and AI diagnosis is comparable to human experts.
Evolutionary dynamics of glue gene copy number in Drosophila species
Authors: Monier Manon , Nuez Isabelle , Borne Flora , Courtier-Orgogozo Virginie
Published: January 2023

Background
During evolution, genes can experience duplications, losses, inversions and gene conversions. Why certain genes are more dynamic than others is poorly understood. Here we examine how several Sgs genes encoding glue proteins, which make up a bioadhesive that sticks the animal during metamorphosis, have evolved in Drosophila species.
Results
We examined high-quality genome assemblies of 24 Drosophila species to study the evolutionary dynamics of the Sgs1-Sgs3-Sgs7-Sgs8 family glue genes at an unprecedented resolution across approximately 30 millions of years. A total of 102 Sgs genes were annotated and grouped into 4 subfamilies. We present here a new nomenclature for Sgs genes based on protein sequence conservation, genomic location and presence/absence of internal repeats. Two types of glue genes were uncovered. The first category (Sgs1, Sgs3X, Sgs3e) experienced a few gene losses but no duplication, no local inversion and no gene conversion. The second group (Sgs3b, Sgs7, Sgs8) exhibited multiple events of gene losses, gene duplications, local inversions and gene conversions. Our data suggest that the presence of short "new glue" genes near the genes of the latter group may have accelerated their dynamics.
Conclusions
Our comparative analysis suggests that the evolutionary dynamics of glue genes is influenced by genomic context. Our molecular, phylogenetic and comparative analysis of the glue gene family Sgs1-Sgs3-Sgs7-Sgs8 provides the foundation for investigating the role of the various glue genes during Drosophila life.
Revisiting the karyotype of the social wasp Polistes canadensis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae)
Authors: Pinheiro Tailan Silva , Santos Rafael de Jesus , Bitencourt Jamille de Araújo , Miranda Adrianne Oliveira , Junior Juvenal Cordeiro Silva
Published: January 2023

Cytogenetic techniques have been improving over the last decades, providing useful information for the systematics and evolution of several groups, such as social insects. On the other hand, karyotypic data are still incipient for most wasp genera. For instance, only five of the 240 species of Polistes have been karyotyped, usually based on obsolete data. Therefore, this study aimed to revisit the karyotype structure of Polistes canadensis, providing unpublished information based on traditional (karyotyping and C-banding) and refined (GC- and AT-rich sites by base-specific fluorochrome staining) cytogenetic methods. Males and females of P. canadensis were characterized by haploid and diploid numbers of n = 28 and 2n = 56, respectively. The karyotype formula was established in 2K = 18M + 22SM + 16A with a predominance of pericentromeric heterochromatin and terminal GC+ sites in 16 chromosome pairs. Our results differ significantly from the previous karyotype reported for this species, probably related to the utilization of suitable methods of obtaining mitotic chromosomes in the present study. In addition, the detailed analysis of chromosomal microstructure provided potential cytotaxonomic markers for systematic inferences in social wasps.
Irrational parenthood cognition and infertility stigma among infertile women: a cross- sectional study in Changsha, China
Authors: Tang Qin , Zhou Xiu , Wang Nan , Qian Xiangzi
Published: January 2023

Background
Stigma is among the most prevalent and disturbing consequences of being infertile among women, yet it remains unknown whether fertility stigma is affected by irrational parenthood cognitions. The current study aimed to assess irrational parenthood cognitions, infertility stigma, and their interrelationship among a group of Chinese women referred to an infertility center in Changsha, Hunan, China.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, 376 women seeking treatment for infertility at three hospitals in Changsha City were recruited and completed online questionnaires through the questionnaire star from October 2020 to January 2021. Irrational parenthood cognitions and infertility stigma were assessed by the Irrational parenthood cognitions (IPC) scale and Infertility Stigma Scale (ISS), respectively. Pearson correlation test was used to explore the association between IPC and ISS, while multivariate linear regression was used to explore the independent influencing factors of stigma.
Results
Participants had a mean score of 42.41 ± 13.03 for IPC and 62.89 ± 24.50 for ISS. Irrational parenthood cognitions were highly correlated with infertility stigma with a large effect size (r = 0.55, p < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression showed that patients’ infertility stigma was positively associated with irrational parenthood cognitions (β = 1.06, p < 0.001), while negatively associated with education (β=-5.4, p = 0.036) and disclosure of infertility (β= -8.39, p = 0.001).
Conclusion
This study is the first to identify a positive association between irrational parenthood cognitions and infertility stigma among infertile women in China. Our findings provide useful guidance for the future development of effective anti-stigma intervention programs among infertile women.
Can preoperative magnetic resonance imaging be used for sagittal kyphotic flexibility assessment in patients with kyphosis secondary to symptomatic old osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture?
Authors: Wang kangkang , zhang Feng , Zhai Yunlei , Zhang Wei , Yin Wen , Sun Lele , Cui Xilong , Yu Haiyang
Published: January 2023

Objective This study aimed to investigate whether preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for sagittal kyphotic (SK) flexibility assessment in patients with kyphosis secondary to symptomatic old osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture (so-OTLF).
Methods The authors evaluated the radiographic data of patients with kyphosis secondary to so-OTLF. All patients underwent posterior corrective fusion surgery in the hospital. Spinal sagittal parameters were measured on standing radiographs preoperatively. The regional kyphosis angle (RKA) was also measured on preoperative supine MRI and intraoperative prone radiographs on the surgical frame. The SK flexibility in patients with kyphosis secondary to so-OTLF was defined as the difference between the RKA measured on the standing radiographs and that measured on the intraoperative prone radiographs or preoperative supine MRI. The difference and the correlation between the SK flexibility measured by these two methods were compared and analyzed.
Results Thirty-seven patients were included. The RKA measured on standing radiographs, supine MRI, and intraoperative prone radiographs were 48.03°, 34.40°, and 31.95°, respectively. Compared with the RKA measured in standing position, the RKA measured on supine MRI decreased by 13.63° (95% confidence interval 11.44°– 15.82°), whereas that measured on intraoperative prone radiographs decreased by 16.08° (95% confidence interval 13.66°–18.50°). A linear correlation existed between the SK flexibility measured on supine MRI and that measured on intraoperative prone radiographs, with a mean difference of 2.44° (R2 = 0.912, p<0.001).
Conclusion The degree of regional kyphosis deformity was reduced by self-reduction of the intraoperative surgical frame. With a predictive value similar to an intraoperative prone radiograph, preoperative supine MRI can be used for SK flexibility assessment in patients with kyphosis secondary to so-OTLF. The ability to predict the intraoperative degree of regional kyphosis deformity with positioning before an operation helps with surgical planning and patient counseling regarding expectations and risks of surgery.
Aseptic loosening of tumor endprostheses in distal femur after revision surgery: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Ziming , Yu Xiuchun , Xu Ming , Zheng Kai , Hou Ziwei , Miao Zukang , Sun Yanshun
Published: January 2023

Background: More patients are having revision surgery because of aseptic loosening of tumor prostheses in distal femur, but the revision failure rate is also increasing, which is mainly due to the recurrence of aseptic loosening. The purpose of this study was to analyze the risk factors for recurrence of aseptic loosening after revision surgery of tumor prosthesis in the distal femur.
Method: A retrospective analysis was performed on 23 patients who had revision surgery for distal femur prosthesis due to aseptic loosening between June 2002 and June 2021. They were divided into two groups based on the condition of the prostheses after revision surgery: loosening group and control group. After the initial replacement, length and diameter of the prosthetic intramedullary stem were measured. The osteotomy length, femoral length and diameter, femoral intramedullary stem diameter, hip–knee–ankle angle (HKAA), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA) and so on were measured as well. Following that, statistical analysis was performed.
Results: Patients in the loosening group had statistically significant differences in the ratio of prosthesis length to femur length (71.89±6.62) and the ratio of intramedullary stem diameter to medullary cavity diameter (25.50±6.90) (P < 0.05) when compared to the control group. The HKAA (175.58°±2.78°), mLDFA (94.42°±2.57°), and the deviation angle between the force line of the lower limb and the longitudinal axis of the tibial prosthesis (2.23°±1.09°) in the loosening group were significantly different from those in the control group (P < 0.05) on postoperative radiographs of the entire length of the lower limbs. The lowest score in intramedullary manubrium I indicated less osteolysis, while the highest score in intramedullary manubrium Ⅲ indicated the most serious osteolysis, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: We conclude that using longer and thicker intramedullary stems can effectively reduce the incidence of aseptic loosening, and that using the original prosthesis carefully can reconstruct the standard line of lower limb force. The distal segment of the intramedullary stem is more prone to osteolysis and should be closely follow-up after surgery.
A massively successful experience is needed for spontaneous use in post-stroke: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Sujin , Shin Yumi , Jeong Yeonwoo , Na Seungyoung , Han Cheol E
Published: January 2023

Background:Motivation to use the more-affected arm is an essential indicator of recovery in stroke survivors. This study aimed to investigate whether personal mastery experience via intensive repetitive reaching movements with autonomy support may increase self-efficacy and thus increase performance and use of the more-affected arm in mild-to-moderate subacute to chronic stroke patients.
Methods:Twenty-six participants with stroke were divided into two groups: a motivation group (with autonomy support) and a control group (without autonomy support). Five weeks of training and test sessions were administered using the individualized motivation enhancement system that we developed. The task difficulty parameter modulated the time limit for attaining targets to provide autonomy support. We analyzed various clinical and behavioral measures using mixed-effect models.
Results:Successful experiences did not change in the control group (p = .129),but dramatically increased in the motivation group (p < .0001). Performance significantly improved in the retention test for both groups (p < .0001), without any group differences (p = .329). However, the motivation group exhibited a dramatic increase in the use of the more-affected arm (p < .0001), whereas the control group did not (p
Conclusions: The successful experience of personal mastery accomplished by autonomy support increased the use of the affected arm. Autonomy support in the motivation group may make a participant aware of the training goal: to use the more-affected arm as much as possible or make the affected arm use more habitual.
Trial registration: The study was registered with The Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS), KCT0008117. Registered retrospectively on January 13, 2023, at https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do/23875
Risk factors for Interruption in Treatment among HIV-infected adolescence attending health care and treatment clinics in Tanzania
Authors: Mtisi Expeditho L. , Mushy Stella E. , Mkawe Simon G. , Ndjovu Antony , Mboggo Eric , Ngalesoni Frida , Muya Aisa
Published: January 2023

Background
Interruption in Treatment (IIT) is a challenge in HIV care and treatment programs in sub- Saharan Africa. We analyzed risk factors for IIT among HIV-positive adolescence receiving care and treatment in Tanga region, Tanzania. The findings will help to guide the development of strategies targeting adolescents to improve retention of patients in care and treatment services.
Methods
We conducted retrospective longitudinal cohort study using secondary data of adolescent patients enrolled in care and treatment clinics in Tanga from October 2018 to December 2020. We defined Interuption in Treatment as missing clinic visits for 90 consecutive days after the last scheduled appointment date on anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Cox proportional hazard regression models were employed to identify risk factors of the outcome variable.
Results
Among 2,084 adolescents of age between 15 to 19 years were followed for two years, whereby 546 (26.2%) had interrupted treatment. The median age of the participants was 14.6 years (interquartile range, IQR: 12.6–16.6 years), with age between 15 to 19 years, male sex, with advanced HIV disease and were not on Dolutegravir (DTG) related regimens were associated with interruption in treatment; (Hazard ratio (HR) 1.43, 95% CI 1.23–1.66, p < 0.0001, HR 2.47, 95% CI 1.62–3.77, p < 0.0001, HR: 2.47, 95% CI 1.91– 3.21, p < 0.0001 and HR: 6.67, 95% CI 3.36– 7.04, p < 0.0001 respectively). Adolescents who were on ART for less or equal one year compared to those on ART for more than one year were protective toward interruption in treatment (HR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.54–0.87, p = 0.002).
Conclusions
The risk of interruption in treatment was high among adolescents in HIV care and treatment facilities in Tanga. This might lead to poor clinical outcomes, and increased drug resistance among ART-initiated adolescents. Placing more adolescents with DTG based drug, strengthening access to care and treatment and rapid tracking of patients is recommended to improve patient outcomes.
The Learning Curve for Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal Herniorrhaphy by Logarithmic Function : Consecutive 291 cases performed by a single surgeon
Authors: Hwang DuYeong , Baik YongHae
Published: January 2023

Purpose
The Totally extraperitoneal(TEP) herniorrhaphy is not an easy technique for beginner surgeons because of the complexity of inguinal anatomy and narrow space of the operation field. The aim of this study is to estimate learning curve of laparoscopic TEP herniorrhaphy using logarithmic function model and the exponential function model. Revealing the number of cases needs to overcoming the early learning curve and minimizing the recurrence rate.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of the first 291 patient who underwent laparoscopic TEP herniorrhaphy by a single surgeon consecutively. A logarithmic function and an exponential function were derived from operating time data. The population was divided into three consecutive groups. Each groups assigned the starting point, the slope of the curve, and the plateau of the curve. We calculated how many operation numbers are needed to achieve reduction expected operating time to mean operating time.
Results
291 patients underwent laparoscopic hernia repair. The mean operation time was 70.3 minutes for unilateral hernias. According to two learning curve models, the operation time was decreased less than mean operation time after the initial 88 cases was performed. As the operation time decreased, the recurrence rate decreased.
Conclusion
According to the two learning curve models, 88 cases are required to overcome the learning curve, minimize revision surgery, and achieve a qualified surgery. Further studies on learning curves and training methods are needed to enable a scientific approach to surgical education and quality improvement in surgical education for surgeons and medical services for patients.
Maternal, fetal, neonatal and breastmilk flecainide concentration during maternal therapy and lactation: A case report
Authors: Zande Johanna A. van der , Cornette Jérôme M.J. , Roos-Hesselink Jolien W. , Flint Robert B.
Published: January 2023

Background: Mothers requiring the antiarrhythmic agent flecainide are often advised not to breastfeed, because of the lack of data concercing neonatal effects and flecainide plasma concentrations following maternal exposure as well as via lactation. This is the first report on combined maternal, fetal, neonatal and breastmilk flecainide concentrations in a breastfed infant of a mother requiring flecainide treatment.
Case presentation: All maternal flecainide concentrations fell within the therapeutic range. The fetal to maternal flecainide ratio was 0.72 and the milk to maternal ratio was 2.5. The relative infant dose received via breastmilk compared to maternal dose was 5.6%. Neonatal plasma concentrations were not detectable, despite the flecainide accumulation in breastmilk. All electrocardiograms to assess the neonatal antiarrhytmic effect were normal.
Conclusions: Our results assume that flecainide can be prescribed safely to lactating mothers. Quantification of drug concentrations in neonatal blood in addition to measurements in maternal and fetal blood, and breastmilk, are helpful to evaluate the effects and safety of maternal medication use during pregnancy and lactation.