bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and factors associated with obesity and overweight among primary schoolchildren in three municipalities of Conakry, Guinea: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kadio Kadio Jean-Jacques Olivier , Leno eNiouma Nestor , Cissé Diao , Tounkara Adrien Fapeingou , Guilavogui Foromo , Guédé Kogbo Zohonon Elsa Stéphanie , Kotchi Yao Emmanuel , Koffi Jean-Charles Koidjané , Sidibé Sidikiba , Delamou Alexandre , Camara Alioune , Touré Abdoulaye
Published: March 2022

Background
Childhood obesity is a growing phenomenon in the world. Few studies have been conducted to investigate its risk factors in Guinea. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity, and to identify their associated factors among primary schoolchildren of Conakry city, Guinea.
Methods
It was a cross-sectional study conducted in March 2016 among the 5th grade primary schoolchildren from three municipalities (communes) of Conakry (capital city), Guinea. Children were selected by using the multi-stage random sampling. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify associated factors with obesity and overweight.
Results
The prevalence of obesity was 2.5% (95% CI: 1.9–3.1) and of overweightness was 9.0% (95% CI: 7.9–10.3). Female gender (AOR = 1.78, p = 0.04), non-consumption of fruits (AOR = 2.38, p = 0.005) and traveling to school in car or bus (AOR = 2.26, p = 0,005) were risk the factors of obesity. Multivariate analysis also showed that students of Matoto primary schools (AOR = 1.68, p = 0.003), girls (AOR = 1.36, p = 0.003), children who go to school by car or bus (AOR = 3.40, p = 0.001), those who make between 15–30 minutes go to school (AOR = 8.36, p = 0.03), and children with sedentary lifestyle (i.e. spending their free time watching TV) (AOR = 1.66, p = 0.04) were independently associated with being overweight.
Conclusions
Obesity and overweightness are frequent in primary schools of Conakry. This study suggests the need to develop prevention programs and policies focused on the monitoring of individual and collective nutritional status and early detection of obesity or overweightness among pupils, to contribute to the prevention of the occurrence of future chronic diseases in the Guinean population (diabetes, arterial hypertension, cerebrovascular accidents, etc.), which are in full expansion alongside epidemic communicable diseases.
Deficiency of B vitamins leads to cholesterol-independent atherogenic transformation of the aorta
Authors: Almer Gunter , Opriessnig Peter , Wolinski Heimo , Sommer Gerhard , Diwoky Clemens , Lechleitner Margarete , Kolb Dagmar , Bubalo Vladimir , Brunner Markus , Schwarz Andreas , Leitinger Gerd , Schoiswohl Garbriele , Marsche Gunther , Niedrist Tobias , Schauer Silvia , Oswald Wolfgang , Groselj-Strele Andrea , Paar Marget , Cvirn Gerhard , Hoefler Gerald , Rechberger Gerald , Herrmann Markus , Frank Sasa , Holzapfel Gerhard , Kratky Dagmar , Mangge Harald , Hörl Gerd , Tehlivets Oksana
Published: March 2022

Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease, which is responsible for the majority of deaths worldwide. Elevated plasma homocysteine is an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis and is strongly linked to cardiovascular mortality. However, lack of reproducible and controlled induction of atherosclerotic lesions in preclinical animal models limits atherosclerosis research. Here, we developed the first automated system for vessel wall injury that leads to more homogenous damage and more pronounced atherosclerotic plaque development at low balloon pressure in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis, and used this system to investigate the risk factor interplay. Already in the absence of hypercholesterolemia, deficiency in vitamins and choline required for homocysteine metabolization results in atherogenic transformation of the aorta i.e. impairment of its biomechanical properties, alteration of collagen organization as well as macrophage and lipid accumulation, and aggravation of atherosclerosis including significantly altered water diffusion and impaired vascular reactivity in its presence.
HIV Awareness, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Perceptions and Experiences Among People Who Exchange Sex: Qualitative and Community Partnered Participatory Study
Authors: Kislovskiy Yasaswi , Erpenbeck Sarah , Martina Jamie , Judkins Courtney , Miller Elizabeth , Chang Judy C
Published: March 2022

Background: People who exchange sex for money, favors, goods or services, combat higher risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Understanding barriers to STD and HIV related healthcare from the perspective of this stigmatized and marginalized community may improve access to sexual health services including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Methods: We used community-partnered participatory and qualitative methods to conduct anonymous one-on-one interviews with people who exchange sex to understand their perspectives and experiences related to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV acquisition. We conducted twenty-two interviews and coded them to perform thematic analysis. Results: We identified five themes: (1) Awareness and appreciation of HIV risk and strategies for harm reduction grew from accumulating information over time. (2) PrEP information came from a variety of sources with mixed messages and uncertain credibility. (3) Decision-making about use of PrEP was relative to other behavioral decisions regarding exchange sex. (4) The multi-step process of obtaining PrEP presented multiple potential barriers. (5) Healthcare providers were seen as powerful facilitators to PrEP utilization.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that PrEP care needs to be streamlined and made more accessible to individuals who exchange sex.
Cost-Effective Treatment for Polluted Groundwater Using Eco-Friendly Bio-Coagulants
Authors: Govindaraj Venkatesan , Manoharan Kalpana , Govindarajan Manimaran
Published: March 2022

Groundwater available in aquifers is one of the most important renewable natural resources. It supplies drinking water for more than 90% of the rural population. Most of the wastes from households and industries are dumped in open dumping yards. Due to this, groundwater gets polluted and quality gets deteriorated. The polluted groundwater in many areas is unfit for domestic and drinking purposes. In order to overcome this problem, many treatment methods are adopted in different parts of the world. In the present work, we have assessed the groundwater characteristics in a part of industrial city in southern India and treated the polluted groundwater by using natural bio-coagulants. We have used eco-friendly bio-coagulants such as Artocarpusheterophyllus (Jackfruit peel), Momordicacharantia (Bitter gourd seed), Musa paradisiaca (Banana flower leaf) and Cynodondactylon (Scutch grass). These coagulants are effective in removing the turbidity and maintaining the pH of the water. In addition, these natural coagulants reduce BOD, COD and salt content. After treatment, the groundwater can be used for domestic purposes. As it is a cost- effective and eco-friendly method it can be afforded by large population.
Protective effects of regulating Egr-1 or TOE1 in CVB3-infected viral myocarditis
Authors: Wu Huiping , Gu Xiaohong , Wang Zhengquan , Xia Tianhe , Wu Tingting , Qiu Huixian , Wu Rongzhou , Rong Xing , Chu Maoping
Published: March 2022

The etiology and disease processes of viral myocarditis remain elusive. However, it is unknown whether early growth response-1 (Egr-1) and Target Egr-1 (TOE1) play a role in viral myocarditis. CVB3 infection was used to induce a mouse model of myocarditis, and cultured neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes were exposed to CVB3 to establish a cell model of VMC. RT-qPCR was used to determine mRNA expression levels of Egr-1, TOE1, P53, P21, and CVB3. Western blot analysis was employed to determine protein expression levels of Egr-1, TOE1, BAX, and BCL-2, and HE staining was utilized to observe pathological changes of myocardial inflammation. TUNEL staining was used to detect apoptosis levels in cardiomyocytes. In vivo results revealed that mRNA and protein expression levels of Egr-1 and TOE1 in myocardial tissues increased with prolonged CVB3 infection, BAX expression levels were upregulated, and BCL-2 expression levels were down-regulated. Moreover, in vitro findings demonstrated that 100nM Egr-1 siRNA and 100nM TOE1 siRNA could separately inhibit Egr-1 and TOE1 mRNA expression. The down-regulation of Egr-1 or TOE1 down-regulated P53, P21, and CVB3 mRNA expression in CVB3-infected myocardial cells decreased apoptotic protein BAX expression and increased anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2 expression. TUNEL assay revealed that Egr-1 or TOE1 gene down-regulation reduced CVB3 infection-induced apoptosis in cardiac myocytes. This study demonstrated that down-regulation of Egr-1 and TOE1 genes could inhibit cardiomyocyte apoptosis triggered by CVB3 virus infection and reduce CVB3 virus amplification, thus exerting a protective effect on myocardium.
Modeling and Analysis of Fatigue Detection With Multi-channel Data Fusion
Authors: Huang Wenbo , Wang Changyuan , Jia Hong-bo , Xue Pengxiang , Wang Li
Published: March 2022

To address the problem of accurate assessment of training effects of flight simulators, an intelligent algorithm using neural networks and reinforcement learning is proposed in the paper. The multi-dimensional data of facial expression features and EEG and EM physiological signals are analyzed, and a new evaluation model for assessing human spatial balance, attention distribution, neurological weakness and other pilot training states is studied through facial expression experiments mainly and eye-movement and EEG experiments supplemented, and the EEG acquisition and analysis during pilot training subjects (take-off and landing) are completed, and the emotional characteristics of pilots during training are identified. We completed data fusion of multi-dimensional channels, constructed mathematical models of pilot maneuver reaction time and attention allocation, monitored and evaluated flight training effects and conducted controlled experiments. The experimental results show that the average recognition rates of 92.598% and 87.013% were achieved for expression and neurasthenia recognition, and the human ergonomic information of facial expression and EEG and eye movements were effectively fused.
Pt-induced atomic-level tailoring towards paracrystalline high-entropy alloy
Authors: He Xingjia , Zhang Yu , Zhang kan , Qi Jinlei , Hao Jun , Wang Longpeng , Huang Hao , Wen Mao , Zheng Weitao
Published: March 2022

The material state dominated by the crystalline medium-range order (MRO) has been achieved in the diamond system, named paracrystalline diamond, guiding a new direction to explore the missing link between amorphous and crystalline states1. Since in metallic glasses the incorporation of MRO covering a comparable length scale with the shear transformation zone can stimulate the homogeneous plastic flow2, 3, 4, 5, manipulating the population of crystalline MRO motifs reaching the paracrystalline state in alloy systems would be conducive to tune their deformation behavior on nano-scale for retarding dominant shear bands. However, it is still profoundly challenging to tune MRO motifs in a controllable manner for achieving the paracrystalline state in alloy systems. Here, based on the vast composition space and the complex atomic interactions in the multicomponent and/or high-entropy alloys (HEAs)6, 7, 8, we present an “atomic-level tailoring” strategy, analogous to cutting paper into pieces, cutting the severe-distorted crystalline Zr-Nb-Hf-Ta-Mo HEA into the high-density crystalline MRO motifs on atomic-level, to create the unprecedented paracrystalline HEA. The addition of uniformly distributed Pt atoms with the large and negative mixing enthalpy into the pristine HEA induces the local atomic reshuffling around Pt atoms for the well-targeted local amorphization qualified as the “atomic-level scissors”. Such enthalpy-guided strategy coupled with lattice-distortion effect in HEAs can provide the unique atomic-level tailoring ability for numerous opportunities abound in the purposeful regulation of structural characteristics and the significant improvement of mechanical properties.
PROmotion of COvid-19 VA(X)ccination in the Emergency Department – PROCOVAXED: Study Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rodriguez Robert , O’Laughlin Kelli , Eucker Stephanie , Chang Anna Marie , Rising Kristin , Nichol Graham , Pauley Alena , Kanzaria Hemal , Gentsch Alexzandra , Li Cindy , Duber Herbie , Butler Jonathan , Eswaran Vidya , Glidden Dave
Published: March 2022

Background
We conducted in-depth interviews to characterize reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in emergency department (ED) patients and developed messaging platforms that may address their concerns. In this trial we seek to determine whether provision of these COVID-19 vaccine messaging platforms in EDs will be associated with greater COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake in unvaccinated ED patients.
Methods
This is a cluster-randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating our COVID-19 vaccine messaging platforms in seven hospital EDs (mix of academic, community, and safety-net EDs) in four US cities. Within each study site, we randomized 30 one-week periods to the intervention and 30 one-week periods to the control. Adult patients who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine are eligible with these exclusions: 1) major trauma, intoxication, altered mental status, or critical illness; 2) incarceration; 3) psychiatric chief complaint; and 4) suspicion of acute COVID-19 illness. Participants receive an orally administered Intake survey. During intervention weeks participants then receive three COVID-19 vaccine messaging platforms (4-minute video, one-page informational flyer and a brief, scripted face-to-face message delivered by ED physicians and nurses); patients enrolled during non-intervention weeks do not receive these platforms. Approximately an hour after intake surveys, participants receive a Vaccine Acceptance survey during which the primary outcome of acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine in the ED is ascertained. The other primary outcome of receipt of a COVID-19 vaccine within 32 days is ascertained by electronic health record review and phone follow-up. To determine whether provision of vaccine messaging platforms is associated with a 7% increase in vaccine acceptance and uptake, we will need to enroll 1290 patients.
Discussion
Highlighting the difficulties of trial implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic in acute care settings, our novel trial will lay the groundwork for delivery of public health interventions to vulnerable populations whose only health care access occurs in EDs.
Trial Status:
We began enrollment in December 2021 and expect to continue through 2022.
Conclusions
Toward addressing vaccine hesitancy in vulnerable populations who seek care in EDs, our cluster-RCT will determine whether implementation of vaccine messaging platforms is associated with greater COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake in unvaccinated ED patients.
Does the Rubella Immunoglobulin G affect the severity of COVID- 19? Rubella Immunoglobulin G and COVID- 19
Authors: Sahebi Leyla , Hosseini Mohsen , Abdollahi Alireza , Farrokhzad Nahid , Ghazi Samrand Fattah , Noroozi Farzaneh Samaei , Ghiasvand Fereshteh
Published: March 2022

Objective &Aim: The coronavirus disease, so far (COVID-19) has brought about millions of infections and fatalities throughout the world. Our aim was to determine whether rubella IGG titers are inversely correlated with severity COVID-19 patients.Materials & Methods: This study was conducted among COVID-19 confirmed patients over 18 years of age. The disease severity levels were categorized by WHO interim guidance. The rubella-specific IgG antibody-titer spectrum was measured (within first 48 hours of hospitalization) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Result: in a study of 46 inpatients with varying COVID-19 disease severity (mild, moderate, severe, and critical), we observed a negative correlation between rubella IgG antibody titers and COVID‐19 severity (P-Value=0.03), There was an interaction between COVID-19 vaccination history and rubella IGG on severity COVID-19 (P-Value=0.0015). There was an interaction between age group under 44 years (including national measles- rubella (MR) vaccination in Iran) and rubella IGG titers on severity COVID-19 too (p-value=0.014).Conclusion: In conclusion, MR vaccination seems to have a positive effect in reducing the severity of the disease, emphasizing that, the important and separate effect of the IGG rubella (due to natural or extrinsic immunity) titers is determining.
The Application Of Remodeled Glove Puppetry For Children With Developmental Disabilities: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Lai Chia Ching , Hsieh Hsieh-Chun , Chen Hsin-Yung , Lin Chien-Heng
Published: March 2022

Objective: To study the improvement of hand performance and play behavior in children with developmental disabilities using remodeled glove puppetry. Method: A pretest-posttest design was used in this randomized controlled trial to evaluate the intervention. Sixty-two children with developmental disabilities were randomly divided into experimental and control groups (n=31 each). Both groups underwent puppet play sessions once daily in playrooms. The children in the experimental group underwent rehabilitation by playing with the remodeled glove puppetry for 12 weeks, while the children in the control group played with non-remodeled glove puppetry. The Chinese puppet was remodeled using the Lego EV3® robot. We analyzed the motion kinematics of the hand using Siliconcoach® Pro 7 software and measured the force produced by the Baseline® hydraulic pinch gauge. The revised Knox Preschool Play Scale was used to score the play behavior. Results: The significant differences in posttest outcomes between control and experimental groups were hand kinematics (wrist ROM, F = 6.91, p = 0.011; MP ROM, F = 6.66, p = 0.012; PIP ROM, F = 13.16, p = 0.001) and play scales (space management, F = 8.98, p = 0.004; material management, F = 10.04, p = 0.002; pretense-symbolic, F = 9.39, p = 0.003; participation, F = 25.17, p = 0.000). Significant improvement was observed in most of the kinematics and play scores (p < 0.05) after rehabilitation with remodeled glove puppetry.Conclusion: Further studies using remodeled glove puppetry to improve the range of motion, material management and participation of play quality are useful and needed.
NUMB attenuates post-traumatic osteoarthritis by inhibitingBTRC and inactivating NF-κB pathway
Authors: Lv Zhou , Zhou Fubo , Cheng Xianqiang
Published: March 2022

Background
Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is closely related to the inflammatory response caused by mechanical injury, leading to joint degeneration. Herein, we aim to evaluate the role and the underlying mechanism of NUMB in PTOA progression.
Methods
Anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)-induced rats and LPS-treated chondrocytes were used as in vivo and in vitro models of PTOA, respectively. NUMB overexpression plasmid (pcDNA-NUMB) were administered by intra-articular injection in PTOA model rats, and safranin O-fast green staining, the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) Scoring System, and HE staining were used to evaluate the severity of cartilage damage. The secretion of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and chondrocyte-specific markers (MMP13, COL2A1) was detected by ELISA. Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated by MTT assay and TUNEL staining.
Results
The expression of NUMB was lower expressed in ACLT-induced PTOA rats and LPS-treated chondrocytes. NUMB overexpression enhanced cell viability and reduced cell apoptosis, inflammation and cartilage degradation in chondrocytes stimulated by IL-1β. NUMB bound with BTRC to inhibiting p-IκBα expression, resulting in NF-κB pathway inactivation. BTRC overexpression reversed the promoting effect of NUMB overexpression on cell viability and the inhibitory effects of NUMB overexpression on apoptosis, inflammation and cartilage degradation in LPS-induced chondrocytes. Besides, overexpression of NUMB alleviated articular cartilage damage by repression of inflammation and cartilage degradation in ACLT-induced PTOA rats.
Conclusion
Our data indicated that NUMB negatively regulates BTRC regulated PTOA progression by BTRC/NF-κB pathway, which may be a viable therapeutic target in PTOA.
Efficacy and safety of de-escalation of denosumab for giant cell tumor of the bone
Authors: Nakata Eiji , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Katayama Haruyoshi , Kondo Haruna , Sato Kohei , Kondo Hiroya , Takihira Shota , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: March 2022

We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of denosumab de-escalation for giant cell tumors of the bone (GCTB). We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of nine patients with GCTB that were either unresectable or resectable, but not those of candidates for resection, who received de-escalated denosumab treatment at our institution between 2014 and 2021. The denosumab treatment interval was gradually extended to every 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. We assessed the radiographic changes and clinical symptoms during the course of standard and de-escalated denosumab therapy. Denosumab interval was de-escalated after a median of 12 months of a standard 4-weekly treatment. Imaging showed that a good therapeutic response obtained with the 4-weekly treatment was sustained until the 8-weekly and 12-weekly treatment. According to the MD Anderson criteria, GCTB treated with de-escalated denosumab therapy resulted in a complete response in one patient and a partial response in eight patients, which were obtained with standard treatment. During the 24-weekly treatment, two patients remained stable, while one patient developed local recurrence. The extraskeletal mass reduced significantly with standard treatment, while tumor reduction was sustained during de-escalated treatment. The clinical symptoms significantly improved with standard treatment and remained improved during de-escalated treatment. In conclusion, de-escalated treatment of denosumab has clinical benefit as a maintenance treatment in patients with unresectable GCTB.
Impact of Nutrition Counselling on Multiple Sclerosis Patients Nutritional Status: Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Afifi Zeinab , Hassan Amr , Abdelrahman Nebal , Sayed Asmaa El , Salem Marwa
Published: March 2022

Background: Faulty dietary habits and overnutrition are prevalent among Egyptian multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who do not receive nutrition care as part of treatment. This study was conducted to explore the impact of nutrition counselling on the nutritional status of MS patients. Methods: A single-blinded, parallel randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) was conducted at Kasr Alainy MS Unit (KASMU) on 120 Eligible MS patients from September 2019 to February 2020. Patients were randomly allocated to either Nutrition counseling intervention group (IG) or control group (CG). Allocation concealment was done by sequentially numbered opaque sealed envelopes. All patients were assessed initially then followed the KASMU standard management protocol for the study period. Only patients in the IG underwent initial teaching sessions followed by monthly evaluation (nutrition counseling). All patients were assessed at the end of end of 3 month follow up period. Sociodemographic data was gathered through a structured interview. Nutritional status was assessed anthropometrically, by 24-hour recall and by Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). The 2 groups were compared initially and at the end of follow-up. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to analyze the difference between the two arms in quantitative outcomes. Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests, and Mann-Whitney U test were used in quantitative outcomes. The alpha value (α) was set at 5%. Both Intention To Treat (INT) and Perprotocol (PP) analyses were performed. Results: At baseline assessment, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 31.7% and 32.5% respectively, mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.7 ± 5.7 kg/m2. The mean waist circumference was 93.5±11.9 and 99.2±13.1 cm for males and females, respectively. About 27.3% of males and 83.9% of females showed abdominal obesity. After 3 months of counseling, weight, BMI, waist circumference, food consumption and nutrient intake and adequacy significantly improved in the IG (p<0.05).Conclusion: Nutrition counselling significantly improved anthropometric measurements, food consumption, nutrient intake and adequacy. The study was registered on ClinicalTrial.gov and was given a code (NCT04217564).
Pericardial Computed Tomography Imaging Findings In The Setting Of Coccidioidomycosis
Authors: Madani Mohammad H. , Ghasemiesfe Ahmadreza , Abdelhafez Yasser G. , Nardo Lorenzo
Published: March 2022

Background: Pericardial disease can be a manifestation of infection and imaging can have a role in its diagnosis. Coccidiomycosis endemic fungal infection has been more frequently reported over the past few decades. Other than case reports or series, there has been no systemic study evaluating pericardial imaging findings in patients with coccidioidomycosis to the best of our knowledge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate for intrathoracic computed tomographic (CT) imaging abnormalities in patients with coccidioidal infection with specific emphasis on the pericardium.Methods: Retrospective review of radiology reports and clinical chart review was performed to identify patients with coccidiomycosis between January 2000 and September 2021 at our medical center. Diagnosis of infection was confirmed predominately with serology. Patients were excluded if a CT was not performed within 3 months of confirmed diagnosis date and if there was concomitant additional granulomatous or fungal infection. Chest computed tomography was reviewed for pericardial and additional intrathoracic findings.Results: The final retrospective cohort consisted of 37 patients. Imaging findings included lung nodules (N=37/37), consolidation (N=25/37), mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy (N=20/37) and pleural effusions (N=13/37). Eleven of 37 patients (30%) had either trace pericardial fluid (N=3/37) or small pericardial effusions (N=8/37). One patient had pericardial enhancement/thickening and history of pericardial tamponade. No other patient had clinically pericarditis or pericardial tamponade. Pericardial calcifications were not seen in any patient. Pericardial effusion was statistically associated with presence of pleural effusion as 9/13 patients with pleural effusion had pericardial effusion versus 2/26 patients without pleural effusion had pericardial effusion (p<0.001). Otherwise patients with and without pericardial imaging findings were similar in terms of demographics, comorbidities and other imaging findings. Conclusion: Although pulmonary parenchymal pathology is a common manifestation of coccidioidal infection, most patients with coccidiomycosis do not have pericardial imaging abnormalities on CT.
On-demand autonomous shape memory polymer
Authors: Xie Tao , Ni Chujun , Chen Di , Deng Shihong , Jin Xiuming , Shen Youqing , Zhao Qian
Published: March 2022

Stimuli-responsive shape-shifting polymers1-3 have shown unique appeals in emerging applications including soft robotics4-7, medical devices8, aerospace structures9, and flexible electronics10. Their externally triggered shape-shifting behavior offers on-demand controllability essential for many device applications. Ironically, accessing external stimulation (e.g. heating or light) under realistic scenarios has become the biggest bottleneck for increasingly demanding applications such as implantable medical devices8. In contrast, autonomous shape-shifting polymers11,12 can operate in a trigger-free manner, but at the cost of losing the ability for active manipulation. Combining the attractive yet conflicting attributes (on-demand and autonomous) in one material is highly desirable. Here, we achieve this seemingly unrealistic goal with a 4D printable shape memory hydrogel that operates via spinodal decomposition, with its shape-shifting dominated by internal mass diffusion instead of thermal conduction for common shape memory polymers8-10,13. This allows the hydrogel to undergo fully autonomous shape transformation, critically with an on-demand programmable onset. The precisely controlled shape-shifting behavior without requiring any external stimulation markedly lowers the barrier for future device implementation.
Comparison of preoxygenation efficiency measured by the oxygen reserve index between high-flow nasal oxygenation and facemask ventilation: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Park Sujung , Kim So Yeon , Kim Min-Soo , Park Wyun Kon , Byon Hyo-Jin , Kim Hyun Joo
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe novel high-flow nasal oxygenation is gaining popularity for preoxygenation. The oxygen reserve index (ORI), which is a non-invasive and innovative modality that reflects the arterial oxygen content, are recently introduced in general anesthesia. In our study, we compared the preoxygenation efficiency of high-flow nasal oxygenation and facemask ventilation using the ORI in adult patients undergoing general anesthetic induction for non-emergent surgery.MethodsThis single-center, two-group, randomized controlled trial included 197 patients aged ≥20 years who underwent orotracheal intubation for general anesthesia for elective surgery. The patients were randomly allocated to receive preoxygenation via facemask ventilation or high-flow nasal oxygenation. The ORI was monitored continuously during anesthetic induction period until the endotracheal intubation was completed, and compared between the two groups. The primary outcome was the highest ORI value achieved by oxygenation. The secondary outcome was the time required to reach the highest ORI observed during the induction of anesthesia.ResultsThe ORI increased during preoxygenation in all patients and tended to decrease from the injection of the neuromuscular blockers to the completion of intubation. At 1 minute of preoxygenation, the ORI was significantly higher in the high-flow nasal oxygenation group (0.34 ± 0.33) than in the facemask ventilation group (0.21 ± 0.28; P = 0.003). The highest ORI was not significantly different between the two groups (0.68 ± 0.25 in the high-flow nasal oxygenation group vs. 0.70 ± 0.28 in the facemask ventilation group; P = 0.505). The time required to reach the highest ORI value was not significantly different between the two groups (3.1 ± 2.2 minutes in the high-flow nasal oxygenation group and 3.6 ± 2.2 minutes in the facemask ventilation group; P = 0.113).ConclusionsHigh-flow nasal oxygenation results in an ORI-measured oxygenation state similar to that provided by facemask ventilation during the general anesthesia induction. We conclude that high-flow nasal oxygenation is a feasible and alternative preoxygenation technique for facemask ventilation.Trial RegistrationThis study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (registration number: NCT04291339, registration date: 02/03/2020)
Are Active Video Games Useful In The Development Of Fundamental Movement Skill Of Non-Typically Developing Children?A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Sen , Song Yang , Cai Zhidong , Zhang Qingwen
Published: March 2022

Background
Active video games are increasingly used in sports rehabilitation, especially among children and adolescents. However, due to the variety of video games, the different intervention environments and intervention doses, there are often differences in treatment effects. There may be questions about the actual effectiveness of video games in sports rehabilitation. This study systematically evaluated the effect of active video games on the development of basic motor skills in children and adolescents with atypical development.
Methods
The literature in seven Chinese and English databases was retrieved from randomized controlled trials. The included studies were quantitatively evaluated using the PEDro Scale. Relevant data were then input and analyzed using Review Manager version 5.4.
Results
Seventeen papers were included. In the three subordinate concepts of fundamental movement skill, Active Video Games could significantly improve locomotor skill(standardized mean difference = 0.59, 95% confidence interval 0.38–0.80, P < 0.0001) and stability skill(standardized mean difference = 0.59, 95% confidence interval 0.17–1.00, P = 0.006) in non-typically developing children.But there was no significant difference compared with the control group(standardized mean difference = 0.11, 95% confidence interval − 0.49–0.72, P = 0.72) in object control skill.
Conclusions
The study shows that Active Video Games can improve locomotor skill and stability skill in non-typically developing children, but the effect on object control skill is uncertain, and more high-quality literature needs to be included in the future.
Development of the Genotyping Marker for Reeves’ Turtle (Mauremys Reevesii) Using High-resolution Melting (HRM) Analysis
Authors: Park Chang-Deuk , Kim Keun-Sik , Kim Keun-Yong , Heo Jung Soo , Oh Hong-Shik , Park Seon-Mi , Yoon Ju-Duk
Published: March 2022

The Reeves’ turtle, Mauremys reevesii, resides in freshwater bodies of Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan, and is designated as an endangered species in the Republic of Korea (ROK). However, international pet trade among East Asian countries has made it difficult to identify the indigenous population of M. reevesii in the ROK. In this study, a genotyping marker targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome b (COB) region that easily distinguishes the Korean population was developed for high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis and applied to 27 blood samples obtained from diverse Korean freshwater bodies and pet trade markets. The HRM analysis produced three distinct HRM curves that were designated as the Korean Type, Chinese Type, and Minor Type, whose results exactly matched those of COB sequencing. Our genotyping method will be useful for the rapid and accurate identification of the native population of M. reevesii in the ROK.
First Report of F1534C kdr Mutation in Deltamethrin Resistant Aedes Albopictus From Northern Part of West Bengal, India
Authors: Modak Manas Pratim , Saha Dhiraj
Published: March 2022

West Bengal is a dengue endemic state of India with several dengue outbreaks in the recent years. Synthetic pyrethroids are the major arsenal used for the control of these vectors. The emergence of pyrethroid resistance in mosquitoes has recently been described from many parts of the world due to kdr (knock down resistance) mutations in the voltage gated sodium channel gene (vgsc). In Aedes albopictus, at least four such mutations had already been found. In this study, wild populations of Ae. albopictus were sampled from different locations of northern part of West Bengal, India. World Health Organization, 2016 recommended adult bioassay was followed throughout the experiment in order to determine susceptibility status. A total of 200 Ae. albopictus specimens including both phenotypically resistant and susceptible individuals were successfully amplified for F1534C kdr genotyping. Among them, 81% were homozygote susceptible,12.5% were heterozygote and 6.5% were homozygote resistant. Presence of F1534C mutation in pyrethroid resistant Ae. albopictus mosquitoes is the first report from India. Moreover, another novel mutation T1520I was also found to be coexisting with F1534C mutation in Ae. albopictus. This study will aid in identifying insecticide resistance mechanism and therefore, will reduce errors in vector control measures.
FG-4592 Protects the Intestine from Irradiation-Induced Injury by Targeting TLR4 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Feng Zhenlan , Xu Qinshu , He Xiang , Wang Yuedong , Fang Lan , Zhao Jianpeng , Cheng Ying , Liu Cong , Du Jicong , Cai Jianming
Published: March 2022

Background: Severe ionizing radiation (IR) induced intestinal injury has high mortality, which is a worldwide problem to be solved urgently. In recent years, studies have found that PHD-HIF signaling pathway may play key roles in IR induced intestinal injury, and we found that FG-4592, the PHD inhibitor, has significant radio-protective effects on IR induced intestinal injury. Methods: With/without FG4592 treatment, the survival time, pathology, cell viability, cell apoptosis and organoids of mice after irradiation were compared, and the mechanism was verified after transcriptome sequencing. The data were analyzed using SPSS ver. 19.Results: Our results show that FG-4592 has significant radio-protective effects on the intestine. FG-4592 improves the survival of irradiated mice, inhibits the radiation damage of intestinal tissue, promotes the regeneration of intestinal crypt after IR, and reduces the apoptosis of intestinal crypt cells. Through organoid experiments, it is found that FG-4592 promotes the proliferation and differentiation of intestinal stem cells (ISCs). Moreover, the results of RNA sequence and WB show that FG-4592 significantly upregulated the TLR4 signaling pathway, and FG-4592 has no radioprotection on TLR4 KO mice, suggesting that FG-4592 may play protective role against IR by targeting TLR4. Conclusion: Our work proves that FG-4592 may promote the proliferation and regeneration of ISCs through the targeted regulation of TLR4 and WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, and ultimately play radio-protective roles in IR induced injury. These results enrich the molecular mechanism of FG-4592 to protect IR induced injury and provide new methods for the radioprotection of intestine.
Cancer Cell Motility Through Unjamming Impacts Metastatic Risk
Authors: Käs Josef , Lippoldt Jürgen , Grosser Steffen , Tschodu Dimitrij , Renner Frédéric , Kubitschke Hans , Poßögel Anne-Kathrin , Wegscheider Anne-Sophie , Ulm Bernhard , Friedrichs Kay , Lindner Christoph , Wolf Benjamin , Höckel Michael , Aktas Bahriye , Gottheil Pablo , Niendorf Axel
Published: March 2022

Distant metastasis is the most lethal hallmark of cancer. Nevertheless, due to a lack of suitable markers, the emerging motility of cancer cells only has a negligible impact on current diagnosis and prognosis. In cancer clusters of solid tumours, cooperative unjamming transitions generate regions of unjammed motile cells, as we could show by vital cancer cell tracking in patient-derived tumour explants. Thereby, cancer cells and their nuclei collectively deform/elongate to squeeze past each other. The cells' differing shapes and densities, and nuclei of jammed and unjammed cancer cells can serve as the first reliable motility marker in static images such as histopathological slides. A retrospective clinical study that strongly correlates unjamming with distant metastasis demonstrates that unjamming within primary tumours is part of the metastatic cascade. With the histological slides of two independent breast cancer patient collectives, we train (N=688) and validate (N=692) our quantitative prognostic index based on unjamming regarding metastatic risk. Our index corrects for false high- and low-risk predictions based on nodal status. Combining information derived from the nodal status with unjamming may reduce over- and under-treatment and significantly improve the understanding of the metastatic cascade.
A modified kidney-sparing portal vein arterialization model of heterotopic auxiliary liver transplantation increases liver IL-6, TNF-α, and HGF levels and enhances liver regeneration: an animal model
Authors: Li Jun , Ren Jianjun , Zhang JunJing , Meng Xingkai
Published: March 2022

Background and Aim: The implantation site of the donor liver and the vascular reconstruction approach affect the success of partial donor liver transplantation. We investigated the effects of different donor liver implantation sites and vascular reconstruction approaches on liver regeneration using a rat kidney-sparing heterotopic auxiliary liver transplantation model with portal vein arterialization (PVA). Methods: Sixty male SD rats underwent end-to-end anastomosis of the donor liver portal vein and the right renal artery stent (the control group), or end-to-side anastomosis of the donor liver portal vein and the left common iliac artery (the experimental group). Results: The experimental group had significantly lower plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, and cholinesterase than the control group (P<0.05). The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in the liver were significantly higher in the experimental group than that in the control group (P<0.05). Furthermore, H&E staining of the live specimens revealed that the experimental group showed improved hepatocyte regeneration than that of the control group. Conclusions: The modified kidney-sparing PVA model of heterotopic auxiliary liver transplantation is more conducive to liver regeneration with quicker return of liver function; it may facilitate developing surgical technique to improve liver regeneration in liver transplantation.
Considerations for multimodal prehabilitation in women with gynaecological cancers: A realist scoping review
Authors: Saggu Rhia Kaur , Barlow Phillip , Butler John , Ghaem-Maghami Sadaf , Hughes Cathy , Lagergren Pernilla , McGregor Alison , Shaw Clare , Wells Mary
Published: March 2022

Background: There is increasing recognition that prehabilitation is important as a means of preparing patients physically and psychologically for cancer treatment, however, little is understood about the role of prehabilitation for gynaecological cancer patients. Review question: This scoping review was conducted to collate the research evidence on multimodal prehabilitation in gynaecological cancers and the related barriers and facilitators to delivery and engagement that should be considered when designing a prehabilitation model for this group of women. Methods: Seven medical databases and four grey literature repositories were searched from database inception to September 2021. All articles, except for opinion papers and social media posts, surrounding multimodal prehabilitation in gynaecological cancers were included in the final review. All qualitative papers including gynaecological cancer patients were included, irrespective of whether the intervention of interest was unimodal or multimodal. A realist framework of context, mechanism and outcome was used to assist interpretation of findings. Results: In total, 24 studies were included in the final review. The studies included the following tumour groups: ovarian only (n=12), endometrial only (n=1), mixed ovarian, endometrial, vulvar (n=5) and non-specific gynaecological tumours (n=6). There was considerable variation across studies in terms of screening, delivery of prehabilitation and measured outcomes. Key mechanisms and contexts underpinning engagement with prehabilitation can be summarised by 5 overarching themes: 1) The role of healthcare professionals and organisations 2) Acceptability of prehabilitation 3) Patient motivation 4) Prioritisation of prehabilitation 5) Accessibility of prehabilitation. Implications for practice: A standardised and well evidenced prehabilitation programme for women with gynaecological cancer does not yet exist. Healthcare organisations and researchers should take into account the enablers and barriers to effective engagement by healthcare professionals and by patients, when designing and evaluating prehabilitation for gynaecological cancer patients.
Two new optimal and uniform third-order schemes for Singular Perturbation Problems with Initial Layers
Authors: . K.SELVAKUMAR .
Published: March 2022

This article presents two numerical methods of the order of three for singular perturbation problems, with a small positive parameter using finite differences. It is a problem with an initial layer in the neighborhood of the initial nodal point whose width is of the order of the small parameter. An explicit order three classical methods are modified and a new scheme is designed for singular perturbation problems. It is a fitted operator method and it is explicit with a Variable Fitting Factor (VFF) evaluated at all nodal points. To reduce the calculation time of the scheme with VFF, the VFF is replaced by a fixed Constant Fitting Factor (CFF). It is implicit with a CFF which is evaluated only one time at the initial nodal point. These two schemes are both optimal concerning the small parameter and uniform of order three.
The three order methods presented in this document are superior to the three order methods available in the literature. To view the initial layer when the mesh size is larger than the parameter in the problem, these two fitted operator methods are extended to fitted mesh methods since fitted mesh methods are layer rescaling. The construction of the fitted mesh method is also provided. That is, the uniform mesh is extended to non-uniform mesh. Experimental results are presented to show the optimal and higher-order performance of the two numerical methods using three test problems.
Nano-optical designs enhance monolithic perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells toward 29.8% efficiency
Authors: Tockhorn Philipp , Sutter Johannes , Cruz Alexandros , Wagner Philipp , Jäger Klaus , Yoo Danbi , Lang Felix , Grischek Max , Li Bor , Al-Ashouri Amran , Köhnen Eike , Stolterfoht Martin , Neher Dieter , Schlatmann Rutger , Rech Bernd , Stannowski Bernd , Albrecht Steve , Becker Christiane
Published: March 2022

Perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells allow to overcome the power conversion efficiency limit of market-dominating silicon solar cells. So far, various textured tandem devices were presented aiming at improved optical performance, but highest efficiencies were still realized on polished silicon wafer cells enabling superior perovskite layer properties. Here we present perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells with gentle periodic nanotextures which feature various advantages without compromising the material quality of solution-processed perovskite layers. Reflection losses are reduced in comparison to planar tandems and the devices are less sensitive upon deviations from optimum layer thicknesses. The nanotextures also enable excellent perovskite film formation and a greatly increased fabrication yield. The open-circuit voltage improved by about 15 mV due to enhanced electronic properties of the perovskite top cell. In addition, an optically advanced rear reflector with a dielectric buffer layer reduced parasitic absorption at near-infrared wavelengths. Altogether, the improvements enabled a certified power conversion efficiency of 29.80%.
Intraoperative BIS Monitoring Can Predict the Occurrence of EEG Suppression and Improve the Operation Quality
Authors: Zhao Jindi , An Xingwei , Yu Wenli , Weng Yiqi , Sheng Mingwei , Jia Lili , Sun Ying , Du Hongyin , Ming Dong
Published: March 2022

Recent years, researches on diagnosis of anesthesia status and postoperative recovery based on electroencephalogram (EEG) signals have become increasingly popular. Bispectral index (BIS) is the earliest and most effective indicator for monitoring the depth of clinical anesthesia, and the waveform of intraoperative EEG can be displayed in real time. Excessive anesthesia and other conditions will cause burst suppression (BS) of intraoperative EEG, which will prolong the operation time and ICU stay time, and increase the incidence of postoperative delirium. This study analyzes the changes of intraoperative BIS monitoring on real-time EEG waveform and spectrogram, the results showed that BIS can predict the occurrence of EEG BS and then reduce the operation time and the incidence of postoperative delirium through rational use of intraoperative drugs.