bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning-Based Magnetic Resonance-Ultrashort Time of Echo Imaging for Analyzing Degeneration of Intervertebral Disc Cartilage Endplate and Rehabilitation Nursing
Authors: Jiang Sainan , Song Xiaoyun , Jiang Chengming
Published: July 2022

This study was focused on the magnetic resonance-ultrashort time of echo (MR-UTE) imaging technology based on the convolution residual network (CRN) algorithm to evaluate the degeneration of intervertebral disc endplate (DIDCE) and the efficacy of rehabilitation nursing intervention. In this study, 90 patients with intervertebral disc degeneration in the hospital were randomly divided into an intervention group (45 cases) and a control group (45 cases). All patients were scanned by a magnetic resonance imaging system, and the original UTE images were postprocessed. The control group received routine nursing. The intervention group used massage and rehabilitation nursing intervention measures. The CRN algorithm is used to reconstruct the undersampled MR image and compared with ESPIRiT algorithm and the Regridding algorithm. The result found that CRN has more advantages than ESPIRiT and Regridding reconstruction algorithms. The proportion of partial disappearance and complete disappearance of fibrous ring structure in the low back pain group was higher than that in the non-low back pain group, with a statistical difference (

P
<
0.05

). 90 patients with intervertebral disc cartilage endplate degeneration were divided into lumbago group (62 cases) and nonlumbago group (28 cases) according to whether they had lumbago. The nursing satisfaction of patients in the intervention group (97%) is significantly higher than that of patients in the control group (69%) (

P
<
0.05

). In conclusion, the CRN algorithm successfully removes artifacts and noise in the undersampled image. Cartilage endplate, annulus fibrosus, and bony endplate partially disappeared by the MR-UTE imaging technique. Rehabilitation intervention proved to have a positive effect on the treatment of patients with intervertebral disc degeneration and can improve patients’ satisfaction.
Analysis of Urinary Flora Characteristics in Urinary Tumor Based on 16S rRNA Sequence
Authors: Qiu Jin , Liu Jianxin , Zhong Yi , Liu Wang , Zhou Zhangjie , Li Yun , Li Shiying
Published: July 2022

The relationship between urinary system tumors and urothelial microorganisms remains unexplored. This study is aimed at exploring the relationship between urinary flora and urinary tumors and identifying potential biomarkers for urinary tumors and new targets for prevention. We included four healthy adults (control group) and six patients diagnosed with urinary tract tumors (tumor group). In both groups, 10 and 50 ml clean middle urine samples were reserved. The 10 ml samples were analyzed (including pH, specific gravity, and leukocytes) using an automatic urine analyzer, and the 50 ml samples were analyzed by DNA extraction, 16S rRNA gene amplification, and high‐throughput sequencing. The correlation between routine urine analysis and sequencing results was also analyzed. Testing using the DESeq2 method showed that, at the order level, there were significant differences in the abundance of Caulobacterales between the urinary flora of the two groups (P < 0.05); family level, Bacteroidaceae, Actinomycetaceae, and Tsukamurellaceae (P < 0.05); genus level, Finegoldia, Varibaculum, Actinobaculum, Propionimicrobium, Bacteroides, Brevundimonas, and Tsukamurella (P < 0.05). LEfSe analysis found specific bacteria at the genus level in the urinary flora of the tumor group, namely, Finegoldia (genus Digestiflora) (P < 0.001) and Varibaculum (P < 0.001). Further correlation analysis showed that both species were positively correlated with the urine pH (P < 0.05). PICRUSt analysis showed significant differences in the two functional pathways of cell transformation and metabolism (P < 0.05). Combined with the results of bioinformatics analysis, some differential bacteria may be new biomarkers for urologic tumors, and there may be a correlation between urine pH and tumor occurrence. However, large‐scale prospective studies and in vitro and in vivo experiments are required to further test and verify these findings.
miR-622 Counteracts the NUAK1-Induced Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation and the Antioxidative Stress
Authors: Yang Jian , Lu Jian , Yin Ni , Sun Jingyue , Pu Jianhong , Zang Jin
Published: July 2022

Background. Gastric cancer (GC), a highly prevalent gastric cancer, has high-risk mortality. Thus, investigating strategies to counteract its growth is important to provide theoretical guidance for its prevention and treatment. It has been pointed out that abnormal expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) serves as noninvasive biomarkers for GC. This present study probed into the role of miR-622 and the NUAK family SNF1-like kinase 1 (NUAK1). Methods. Five mRNA datasets (GSE64916, GSE118916, GSE122401, GSE158662, and GSE159721) and one miRNA dataset (GSE128720) from the Gene Expression of Omnibus (GEO) database were used to analyze the differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNA in GC and noncancer samples. Further, western blot, real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR), reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay kit experiments, and wound healing assay, together with in vivo experiments, were performed. Results. miR-622 was downregulated, and NUAK1 was upregulated in GC, and NUAK1 was a potential target of miR-622. Knocking down NUAK1 decreased GC cell proliferation and migration but increased oxidative stress in vitro and inhibited the development of tumor in vivo, while miR-622 acted to suppress the action of NUAK1 through the miR-622/NUAK1/p-protein kinase B (Akt) axis, thereby inhibiting the occurrence of GC. Conclusion. miR-622 and NUAK1 demonstrated potential for being targets and biomarkers for GC treatment.
Sensory Nerves Impede the Formation of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures and Development of Protective Antimelanoma Immune Responses
Authors: Vats Kavita , Kruglov Oleg , Sahoo Bikram , Soman Vishal , Zhang Jiying , Shurin Galina V. , Chandran Uma R. , Skums Pavel , Shurin Michael R. , Zelikovsky Alex , Storkus Walter J. , Bunimovich Yuri L.
Published: July 2022

Peripheral neurons comprise a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The role of the autonomic innervation in cancer has been firmly established. However, the effect of the afferent (sensory) neurons on tumor progression remains unclear. Utilizing surgical and chemical skin sensory denervation methods, we showed that afferent neurons supported the growth of melanoma tumors in vivo and demonstrated that sensory innervation limited the activation of effective antitumor immune responses. Specifically, sensory ablation led to improved leukocyte recruitment into tumors, with decreased presence of lymphoid and myeloid immunosuppressive cells and increased activation of T-effector cells within the TME. Cutaneous sensory nerves hindered the maturation of intratumoral high endothelial venules and limited the formation of mature tertiary lymphoid-like structures containing organized clusters of CD4+ T cells and B cells. Denervation further increased T-cell clonality and expanded the B-cell repertoire in the TME. Importantly, CD8a depletion prevented denervation-dependent antitumor effects. Finally, we observed that gene signatures of inflammation and the content of neuron-associated transcripts inversely correlated in human primary cutaneous melanomas, with the latter representing a negative prognostic marker of patient overall survival. Our results suggest that tumor-associated sensory neurons negatively regulate the development of protective antitumor immune responses within the TME, thereby defining a novel target for therapeutic intervention in the melanoma setting.
Psychological Outcomes and Interventions for Individuals With Congenital Heart Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Kovacs Adrienne H. , Brouillette Judith , Ibeziako Patricia , Jackson Jamie L. , Kasparian Nadine A. , Kim Yuli Y. , Livecchi Tracy , Sillman Christina , Kochilas Lazaros K. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Lifelong Congenital Heart Disease and Heart Health in the Young; and Stroke Council
Published: July 2022

Although resilience and high quality of life are demonstrated by many individuals with congenital heart disease, a range of significant psychological challenges exists across the life span for this growing patient population. Psychiatric disorders represent the most common comorbidity among people with congenital heart disease. Clinicians are becoming increasingly aware of the magnitude of this problem and its interplay with patients’ physical health, and many seek guidance and resources to improve emotional, behavioral‚ and social outcomes. This American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes the psychological outcomes of patients with congenital heart disease across the life span and reviews age-appropriate mental health interventions, including psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Data from studies on psychotherapeutic, educational‚ and pharmacological interventions for this population are scarce but promising. Models for the integration of mental health professionals within both pediatric and adult congenital heart disease care teams exist and have shown benefit. Despite strong advocacy by patients, families‚ and health care professionals, however, initiatives have been slow to move forward in the clinical setting. It is the goal of this scientific statement to serve as a catalyst to spur efforts for large-scale research studies examining psychological experiences, outcomes, and interventions tailored to this population and for integrating mental health professionals within congenital heart disease interdisciplinary teams to implement a care model that offers patients the best possible quality of life.
Towards an Amicable Solution: The Inter-State Communications Procedure under ICERD
Authors: Eiken Jan , Keane David
Published: July 2022

Articles 11–13 ICERD provide for inter-State communications before the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The mechanism was triggered for the first time in 2018, with three inter-State communications – Qatar v. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar v. United Arab Emirates and Palestine v. Israel. This article offers a detailed, article-by-article analysis of the ICERD inter-State communications mechanism. It looks back at CERD decision-making under Article 11, which pioneered rules of procedure and practice in inter-State communications before a UN treaty body. It considers the composition of the ad hoc Conciliation Commissions under Article 12. It looks forward to the role of the ad hoc Conciliation Commissions under Article 13 in terms of fact-finding, an amicable solution and recommendations. In conclusion, the potential of the Articles 11–13 mechanism as a global contentious human rights jurisdiction is emphasised.
Lectotypification of Chloris bournei (Poaceae: Chloridoideae) and its distribution in India
Authors: LANDGE SHAHID NAWAZ , SHINDE RAJENDRA D.
Published: July 2022

N/A
Lectotypification of Mentha gattefossei Maire, a plant endemic to Morocco
Authors: KHAMAR HAMID
Published: July 2022

N/A
A Processual Model of CEO Activism: Activities, Frames, and Phases
Authors: Olkkonen Laura , Morsing Mette
Published: July 2022

Chief executive officers (CEOs) engage in activism when they take public stances on sensitive socio-political issues. In this study, we address the less-explored activities that constitute CEO activism beyond single stances as the activism is maintained over time. The data cover 6 years of campaign and media materials from a case company with several CEO-initiated activist campaigns. Our findings from an inductive analysis contribute to CEO activism theorizing in three ways. First, we extend CEO activism conceptually by identifying five underlying activities that support a public stance: anchoring motivations, modeling action, taking agency, enduring criticism, and normalizing activism. Second, we bridge individual- and organization-level analyses by depicting how a CEO involves a company in activism through activities that justify interrelated topic frame and role frame. Third, we develop a processual model that includes the pre-stance, stance-taking, and post-stance phases and explains how the underlying activities are interrelated and follow a pattern that serves to maintain CEO activism. Accordingly, CEO activism includes activities, through the pre-stance, stance-taking, and post-stance phases, whereby a CEO deliberately engages personally and through a company in public debate about sensitive socio-political issues and the role of businesses in addressing them.
Reversible-figure perception: Why is voluntary control limited?
Authors: Toppino Thomas C.
Published: July 2022

Observers can voluntarily avoid reversals of an ambiguous, reversible figure, extending the duration of an intended percept. This is usually attributed to high-level, top-down attentional processes. However, voluntary control is limited. Reversals occur despite attempts to avoid them. In two experiments, observers demonstrated significant, but limited, voluntary control over Necker cube perception. Cube size and cube completeness, variables associated with stimulus-driven processes involving neural adaptation, influenced the frequency of reversals regardless of observers’ intentions. Results are consistent with the hybrid hypothesis that both top-down and bottom-up processes contribute to Necker-cube perception and support the hypothesis that the contribution of bottom-up processes is responsible for the limitation on voluntary control.
Mental Health and Quality of Life Considerations: Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gologram Makayla , Lomiguen Christine , Chin Justin , Terrell Mark
Published: July 2022

Background: Plastic surgery incorporates procedures ranging from in-office injections to full-body reconstruction. Many of these procedures have been correlated with increasing overall mental health and quality of life. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) effectively ended plastic surgery operations, temporarily, to prevent disease transmission and conserve personal protective equipment (PPE) for patients and forefront physicians with most need. While safety precautions and mental health have remained the primary concerns, this review aims to summarize and explore the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures and its future demand, with emphasis on patient mental health and quality of life, all while bringing potential improvements to the surgical subspecialty. Methods: A critical interpretive review involved thorough searches of Google Scholar and the National Library of Medicine’s MEDLINE/PubMed databases using the following search terms: “plastic surgery,” “COVID-19,” “aesthetic surgery,” and “coronavirus” in conjunction with “mental health,” “economic hardships,” and “post-operative complications.” Results: A total of 34 manuscripts were incorporated into this critical interpretive review. Discussion: The trend in aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery’s frequency of procedures was expected to continue in 2020 but was derailed by COVID-19. Patient motivations for aesthetic surgery vary from visible function-impairing deformities to perceived psychological dysphoria. During COVID-19 restrictions, mental health has declined considerably for many, especially those with body dysmorphia; however, continuing cosmetic elective procedures, following public health guidelines, can have numerous mental health benefits. Conclusions: Cosmetic plastic surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic is justified to support the mental health of patients that suffer from body dysmorphia and can abide by the safety precautions to prevent infection. Aesthetic surgery after the pandemic will continue the positive trend from previous years, but with an increased focus on the mental health of patients and an increased quality of care inspired by the pandemic.
Thinking beyond averages: Quantile regression modelling and military expenditure
Authors: Solar Carlos
Published: July 2022

The study of military spending has been an enduring concern within military sociology and political science. Methodologically, one of the biggest challenges lay in dealing with its heavy-tailed distribution influenced by the growing separation between China and the United States from the rest of the world. In the presence of outliers along the continuum of military expenditure, we should be paying more attention to portions of the distribution that don’t assume the values reported at the conditional mean. The article uses quantile regression modelling (QRM) to analyse the nuanced relationship between military expenditure and its predictors. It argues that classical linear regression produces average estimates that cannot predict values at different subsets of the data’s distribution, meanwhile QRM has relevant results in the search for noncentral values in the study of military expenditure often laying in the lower and the upper tails of the distribution.
What takes ‘us’ so long? The philosophical poverty of childhood studies and education
Authors: Biswas Tanu
Published: July 2022

My argument addresses a significant history of philosophical racism–a term borrowed from Mogobe Ramose. The argument is: philosophical racism makes the racist philosophically poor, too. I propose that two philosophical keystones, i.e., ontological simultaneity and mutual causation need to be further developed by engaging non-Western contributions. I conclude by emphasising that childhood studies could level the playing field by paying attention to the intersections of racism and adultism. In turn contribute to inseparable fields like the philosophy of education.
PI-based composites with high dielectric constant and low loss by filling with self-derived carbon
Authors: Li Ke , Peng Mingyun , Yu Qiyu , Huang Bingliang , Cheng Jie
Published: July 2022

In this work, we prepared polyimide (PI) composite films by directly filling the matrix with self-derived carbon particles. Without any surface modification layer, these specially made particles were compatible with their parent matrix quite well. For the composite film with 25 wt% filler content, the dielectric constant was 72.5 at 1 MHz at room temperature, and the dielectric loss was only 0.069. The conductivity of the corresponding composite was measured to be below 10−6 Sm−1, and the breakdown strength was 165 MVm−1. In addition, the tensile strength of the composite film was measured to be 73 MPa. These results indicate that carbonized PI can be used as an excellent filler to prepare PI-based composite films with high dielectric constant.
Assessing the fast non-Hertzian methods for wheel-rail rolling contact integrated in the vehicle dynamics simulation
Authors: Chen Yu , Sun Yaoliang , Ding Wenhao , Wang Ping
Published: July 2022

An accurate and high-efficiency contact model is essential for vehicle-track dynamic simulation and wear prediction. The paper attempts to assess the influence of different contact models on the offline and online simulation, as well as wear depth distribution. Taking CONTACT as the reference model, the computational accuracies of contact model combinations (i.e. Hertz + FASTSIM, Kik–Piotrowski (KP) + FASTSIM, modified Kik–Piotrowski (MKP) + FASTSIM and MKP + FaStrip) are evaluated. Typical wheel-rail contact cases and two dynamic simulation cases (track irregularity and curve track) have been studied. Results show that MKP + FaStrip achieves the best computational accuracy in calculating the typical wheel-rail contact situation, besides, the yaw angle has a significant influence on the contact patch shape and pressure distribution, especially when the wheel flange contacts with a rail corner. With regard to the vehicle passing the track with the lateral irregularity, both KP + FASTSIM and MKP + FaStrip models can achieve relatively good agreement on dynamic results and wear prediction with CONTACT. In terms of the curve track, MKP + FaStrip has better accuracy on dynamic results and wear due to a larger yaw angle.
Heidegger’s Post-Western Politics
Authors: Duff Alexander S.
Published: July 2022

The revival of ideologically motivated right-wing political agitation across the Western world demands that its intellectual sources be discovered. Martin Heidegger has occupied a position among anti-liberal, anti-modernist, and anti-Western forces across the globe comparable to that of Karl Marx on the socialist Left. Yet scholars still lack the conceptual terminology for capturing the political import of his work. The recent publication of Heidegger’s Black Notebooks provides an opportunity for rereading his central political works in order to recover their meaning for contemporary political movements. Such a rereading also illuminates the sources of Heidegger’s remarkable and misunderstood influence on the political Right. It thus explains a matter of urgent and high importance for generalist political scientists.
Classroom Reinforcement Systems: Using Token Economies to Foster Independence
Authors: Heiniger Sarah N. , Tucker Kimberly A. , Hott Brittany L. , Randolph Kathleen M.
Published: July 2022

Token economies are a helpful, research-based tool for behavior intervention. However, the design and implementation process can be overwhelming. To address common challenges with token economy implementation, we describe the basic behavioral science behind a token economy, how to implement a token economy effectively, and how to avoid pitfalls along the way. We also provide advice on how to generalize token economies across settings and fade token economies, fostering a student’s intrinsic motivation and making reinforcement more naturalistic.
Comparing cancer genetic counselling using telegenetics with in-person and telephone appointments: Results of a partially randomised patient-preference pilot study
Authors: Gonzalez Tina , Tucker Kathy , Wakefield Claire E , Geelan-Small Peter , Macmillan Stephanie , Taylor Natalie , Williams Rachel
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Direct-to-patient telegenetics, which uses video conferencing to connect health professionals directly to patients’ devices, has been widely adopted during the pandemic. However, limited evidence currently supports its use in cancer genetic counselling.

Methods

Before the pandemic, we conducted a two-arm partially randomised patient-preference pilot trial to evaluate direct-to-patient telegenetics for patients and genetic counsellors. Patients were randomised to a standard care (telephone/in-person) or direct-to-patient telegenetics appointment. Patients completed questionnaires before, during and after appointments measuring: psychological distress, perceived genetic counsellor empathy, telegenetics satisfaction and technical challenges. Genetic counsellor-reported outcomes –measured using purpose-designed questionnaires– included telegenetics satisfaction, therapeutic alliance and time for assessment. Open-ended patient and genetic counsellor questionnaire responses were synthesised using content analysis.

Results

Fifty-six patients and seven genetic counsellors participated. Thirteen patients switched appointment type. No significant differences in distress ( P  =  0.84) were identified between direct-to-patient telegenetics and standard care. Perceived genetic counsellor empathy was high for all appointment types. There was no evidence of differences in reported maximum empathy scores between direct-to-patient telegenetics and standard care [telephone ( P  =  0.57); in-person ( P  =  0.44)]. Patients reported high direct-to-patient telegenetics satisfaction despite technical challenges in most appointments (65%). Genetic counsellors were satisfied with direct-to-patient telegenetics and perceived high therapeutic alliance irrespective of appointment type. No significant differences in genetic counsellor time were identified between direct-to-patient telegenetics and standard care [telephone ( P > 0.90); in-person ( P  =  0.35)].

Discussion

Our results suggest that direct-to-patient telegenetics is a satisfactory service delivery model that does not appear to compromise patient–genetic counsellor relationships or increase patient distress. These findings support direct-to-patient telegenetics use in cancer genetic counselling, although larger trials are needed.
Robust fault detection and isolation for dynamics of high-speed train with uncertainties based on descriptor systems
Authors: Wang Runze , Liang Tiantian , Zheng Xiang , Li Kexin
Published: July 2022

This paper proposes a new type of robust fault detection and isolation filter for dynamics of HST based on descriptor systems with uncertainties in finite frequency. This filter is designed based on the unknown input filter to decouple the non-linear variables due to the aerodynamic drag pressing on the trains. The exogenous disturbance is partitioned into two parts-the decoupling one is regarded as the augmented variables of the non-linear part of the systems, and the non-decoupling one is seen as the augmented disturbance along with the uncertainties. Concurrent faults of different positions are considered, residual evaluation functions and adaptive threshold are given to judge if the faults occur. Fault isolation is implemented by a set of detection subspaces associated with every different fault which is assigned to its own detection subspace. The residual is not only sensitive to the fault, but also has a robustness against the non-decoupling disturbance and uncertainties in finite frequency. Simulation examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.
The quality of recovery after erector spinae plane block in patients undergoing breast surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wiech Marcin , Piwowarczyk Paweł , Mieszkowski Marcin , Tuyakov Bułat , Pituch-Sala Karolina , Czarnik Tomasz , Kurylcio Andrzej , Czuczwar Mirosław , Borys Michał
Published: July 2022

Background

The erector spinae plane (ESP) block has recently been shown to effectively alleviate postoperative pain and reduce opioid consumption in breast surgery patients. However, data are still limited concerning the quality of recovery in patients following this procedure.

Methods

This study was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) performed in a university hospital. We randomly allocated patients to one of three groups: ESP, SHAM, and control (CON). Procedures in the ESP and SHAM blocks were performed ipsilaterally with 0.375% ropivacaine or 0.9% saline (0.4 mL/kg). Our primary outcome was the assessment of the patient’s improvement with quality-of-recovery 40 (QoR-40) a day after surgery. Other outcome assessments included postoperative pain evaluation on the visual analog scale (VAS), 24-hour opioid consumption with patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), time to the first opioid demand, and global satisfaction with perioperative treatment.

Results

Overall, patients in the ESP group had improved QoR-40 compared to the CON group, 186 [177–193] vs. 175 [165–183] (medians and interquartile ranges). Pain severity was significantly higher in the CON group compared to the ESP group at hours 2 (38 [23–53] vs. 20 [7–32]) and 4 (30 [18–51] vs. 19 [7–25]). Moreover, we observed lower oxycodone consumption after 24 hours with the PCA pump between the ESP (4 [2–8] mg) and the CON (9.5 [5–19]) groups. Patients in the CON group used PCA sooner than those in the ESP group. Participants in the ESP group were more satisfied with treatment than those in the CON group. We found no statistical difference between SHAM and the other groups.

Conclusions

Compared to the CON group, the ESP block improved the quality of recovery, alleviated pain intensity, and lowered opioid consumption in patients undergoing breast surgery. However, we did not observe this superiority in comparison with the SHAM group.

Trial registration

NCT04726878.
Application of an innovative grid-based surveillance strategy to ensure elimination and prevent reintroduction of malaria in high-risk border communities in China
Authors: Lu Shen-ning , Ding Wei , Wang Jia-zhi , Yin Shou-qin , Li Sheng-guo , Zhou Xing-wu , Xu Qiu-li , Sun Xiao-dong , Cotter Chris , Hsiang Michelle S , Tatarsky Allison , Gosling Roly , Lv Shan , Wang Duo-quan
Published: July 2022

Grid management is a grassroots governance strategy widely implemented in China since 2004 to improve the government’s efficiency to actively find and solve problems among populated regions. A grid-based strategy surveillancing high-risk groups, including mobile and migrant populations (MMPs), in the China–Myanmar border region has played an indispensable role in promoting and consolidating the malaria elimination efforts by tracking and timely identification of potential importation or re-establishment of malaria among MMPs. A sequential mixed methods was implementated to explore the operational mechanism and best practices of the grid-based strategy including through the focus group discussions (FGDs), comparison of before and after the implementation of a grid-based strategy in the field sites, and data collection from the local health system.This paper distills the implementation mechanism and highlights the role of the grid-based strategy in the elimination and prevention of re-establishment of malaria transmission.
Pancreatic juice outflow in pancreatojejunostomy monitoring with the inter-anastomosis drainage tube; a retrospective observational study
Authors: Shimomura Osamu , Oda Tatsuya , Miyazaki Yoshihiro , Furuya Kinji , Doi Manami , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Kim Jaejeong , Moue Shoko , Owada Yohei , Ogawa Koichi , Ohara Yusuke , Akashi Yoshimasa , Enomoto Tsuyoshi , Hashimoto Shinji
Published: July 2022

Background

Pancreatic fistula remains the biggest problem in pancreatic surgery. We have previously reported a new pancreatojejunostomy method using an inter-anastomosis drainage (IAD) suction tube with Blumgart anastomosis for drainage of the pancreatic juice leaking from the branched pancreatic ducts. This study aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcomes of our novel method, in pancreatojejunostomy and investigate the nature of the inter-anastomosis space between jejunal wall and pancreas parenchyma.

Methods

This retrospectively study consist of 282 pancreatoduodenectomy cases, including 86 reconstructions via the Blumgart method plus IAD (B + IAD group) and 196 cases reconstructed using the Blumgart method alone (B group). Postoperative outcomes and the amylase value and the volume of the drainage fluids were compared between the two groups. The IAD tube was placed to collect amylase-rich fluid from the inter-anastomosis space during operative procedure between the jejunal wall and pancreatic stump.

Results

The daily IAD drainage volume and the amylase level was significantly higher in patients with a soft pancreas (vs hard pancreas; 16.5 vs. 10.0 mL/day, p = 0.012; 90,900 vs. 1634 IU/L, p < 0.001, respectively). The mean amylase value of IAD collection in 86 cases of B + IAD group was 63,100 IU/L. The incidence of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula grade B and C (23.2% vs. 23.0%, p = 0.55) and the hospital stay was similar between the groups (median 17 vs. 18 days, p = 0.55). In 176 patients with soft pancreas, the incidence of pancreatic fistula grade B and C (33.3% vs. 35.3%, p = 0.67) and the hospital stay was also similar between the groups (median 22.5 vs. 21 days, p = 0.81).

Conclusions

Positive effect of the IAD method observed in the pilot cases was not reproduced in the current study. IAD tube objectively demonstrated the existence of amylase-rich discharge at the anastomosis site, and countermeasures to eliminate this liquid are highly desired for preventing pancreatic fistula, especially in patients with soft pancreatic texture.

Trial registration Retrospectively registered
Aromatherapy with single essential oils can significantly improve the sleep quality of cancer patients: a meta-analysis
Authors: Cheng Hui , Lin Lu , Wang Shaotong , Zhang Yueyue , Liu Tingting , Yuan Yang , Chen Qiuyun , Tian Li
Published: July 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of aromatherapy on sleep quality in cancer patients.

Methods

Published literature on the effect of aromatherapy in cancer patients with sleep disorders in the form of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were systematically retrieved and screened from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CBM, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases from inception to November 2021. The methodological quality of the included studies was critically and independently evaluated by two reviewers using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for RCTs. The correlated data were extracted using the pre-designed form, and all analyses were performed using Reviewer Manager version 5.4. Due to the difference in sleep quality instruments, the data extracted in this study were in the form of standard mean difference (SMD).

Results

Ten RCTs included 933 patients (experimental group: 474, control group: 459), and the risk of bias in the included studies was moderate. Aromatherapy could significantly improve the sleep quality of cancer patients [SMD = − 0.79, 95% CI (− 0.93, − 0.66), p < 0.01], especially those with breast cancer [SMD = − 0.98, 95% CI (− 1.57, − 0.40), p < 0.01]. Aromatherapy with single essential oil had a better effect on sleep quality [SMD = -0.94, 95%CI (− 1.25, − 0.62), p < 0.01], of which lavender essential oil had the best effect [SMD = -1.06,95%CI (− 1.49, − 0.63), p < 0.01] while compound essential oils had no effect on sleep quality improvement in cancer patients [SMD = -0.21, 95%CI (− 0.57, 0.14), p = 0.23]. Four of the ten RCTs reported the occurrence of adverse events, of which only one RCT indicated that patients had headache and sneezing while the remaining six did not.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis of 10 RCTs reveals that aromatherapy with single essential oil had a substantial effect on the sleep quality of cancer patients and should be recommended as a beneficial complementary therapy to promote sleep quality in cancer patients.
Clinical research capability enhanced for medical undergraduates: an innovative simulation-based clinical research curriculum development
Authors: Yan Siyu , Huang Qiao , Huang Jiao , Wang Yu , Li Xuhui , Wang Yongbo , Luo Lisha , Wang Yunyun , Guo Yi , Zeng Xiantao , Jin Yinghui
Published: July 2022

Background

Clinical research has frequently not been taught in a practical way, often resulting in a very didactic approach rendering it not very accessible for medical undergraduates. Simulation can provide an immersive, interactive, and reflective experience and may be applied to the clinical research curriculum.

Methods

A 7-step model, modified from Kern’s six-step approach and Khamis’s stepwise model, was used to develop the curriculum. A questionnaire survey on undergraduates’ attitude towards, knowledge and practice of clinical research and simulation education was conducted to generate a targeted needs assessment. The simulation framework was integrated into the development of educational strategies. Experts were consulted to assess the curriculum prior to implementation.

Results

Talent construction in China needs an innovative capability-enhanced clinical research curriculum. Sixty-six clinical undergraduates in our school completed the survey. 89.39% (59/66) of them hadn’t participated in clinical research, while 93.94% (62/66) would like to conduct clinical trials if possible. 75.76% of respondents didn’t have knowledge of or practical abilities in clinical trials. The mean score for practical ability (2.02 ± 0.92) was lower than that of knowledge (2.20 ± 0.93) (P < 0.01). The dimension of case report form got the lowest score among the five dimensions. Participating in clinical research (P = 0.04) and learning for themselves (P < 0.01) by a few students may have increased the total score. The curriculum was designed to simulate the whole process from protocol writing, registration, ethical approval, implementation, and data analysis to reporting based on one case study, and was divided into two parts to simulate different types of research: randomized controlled trials and observational studies. It was conducted in semesters 5 and 7 respectively, both including 16 sessions. After expert consultation, one session having a 29.01% coefficient of variation was adjusted and replaced. The final simulation class design scenario scripts are provided for reference.

Conclusions

The targeted needs assessment exposed medical undergraduates’ poor knowledge of and abilities in clinical research. This is the first report of a simulation-based clinical research curriculum developed in China, and adds curriculum development and design details to the limited related published studies.
Wnt signaling in colorectal cancer: pathogenic role and therapeutic target
Authors: Zhao Hui , Ming Tianqi , Tang Shun , Ren Shan , Yang Han , Liu Maolun , Tao Qiu , Xu Haibo
Published: July 2022

Background

The Wnt signaling pathway is a complex network of protein interactions that functions most commonly in embryonic development and cancer, but is also involved in normal physiological processes in adults. The canonical Wnt signaling pathway regulates cell pluripotency and determines the differentiation fate of cells during development. The canonical Wnt signaling pathway (also known as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway) is a recognized driver of colon cancer and one of the most representative signaling pathways. As a functional effector molecule of Wnt signaling, the modification and degradation of β-catenin are key events in the Wnt signaling pathway and the development and progression of colon cancer. Therefore, the Wnt signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diseases, especially the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Objective

Inhibit the Wnt signaling pathway to explore the therapeutic targets of colorectal cancer.

Methods

Based on studying the Wnt pathway, master the biochemical processes related to the Wnt pathway, and analyze the relevant targets when drugs or inhibitors act on the Wnt pathway, to clarify the medication ideas of drugs or inhibitors for the treatment of diseases, especially colorectal cancer.

Results

Wnt signaling pathways include: Wnt/β-catenin or canonical Wnt signaling pathway, planar cell polarity (Wnt-PCP) pathway and Wnt-Ca2+signaling pathway. The Wnt signaling pathway is closely related to cancer cell proliferation, stemness, apoptosis, autophagy, metabolism, inflammation and immunization, microenvironment, resistance, ion channel, heterogeneity, EMT/migration/invasion/metastasis. Drugs/phytochemicals and molecular preparations for the Wnt pathway of CRC treatment have now been developed. Wnt inhibitors are also commonly used clinically for the treatment of CRC.

Conclusion

The development of drugs/phytochemicals and molecular inhibitors targeting the Wnt pathway can effectively treat colorectal cancer clinically.
Prognostic prediction of systemic immune-inflammation status for patients with colorectal cancer: a novel pyroptosis-related model
Authors: Hu Jun , Tian Caijuan , Zhao Yanpeng , Guo Yixian , Chen Shuo
Published: July 2022

Pyroptosis and related gasdermin family proteins play an important role in the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the prognostic roles of pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) and their relation to infiltrates of immune cells in the pathogenesis of CRC remain unclear. Using this study, we set up a prognostic gene pattern on the basis of 13 PRGs (AIM2, CASP1, CASP5, CASP6, CASP8, CASP9, ELANE, GPX4, GSDMD, NLRP7, NOD2, PJVK, and PRKACA) for CRC patients. A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis based on these genes was then performed. With the good AUC prediction value of the ROC curves, the group with high hazard first had a poorer survival prognosis than the group with low hazard. Second, we found that PRGs were significantly related to inflammation-associated genes and immune-associated genes in CRC. Then, we identified a correlation of PRGs with immune infiltrations in CRC. For instance, the abundances of resting NK cells resting and neutrophils were higher in the low hazard group than in the high hazard group. Overall, this work indicated that PRGs contributed to generate heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in CRC. This prognostic PRG model may provide a starting point for the early diagnosis and medication use of CRC.
Ovarian mucinous borderline tumor with anaplastic carcinomatous nodules in adolescents
Authors: Huang Mengqi , Lv Qian , Xie Jingyan
Published: July 2022

Bilateral ovarian epithelial neoplasms in adolescents are rare. Moreover, borderline mucinous neoplasms with local intraepithelial carcinoma with anaplastic carcinoma are even more infrequent. Herein, we presented a single case (a 17-year-old female) with regular menstrual cycles and stomach pain when eating who was diagnosed with a left ovarian tumor accompanied by mural nodules. The right ovarian cyst, the left ovary, and the fallopian tube were removed by surgery. Intraoperative diagnosis suggested a bilateral ovarian tumor with mural nodules, which include three different pathological types: sarcomatoid transformation, anaplastic carcinoma, and sarcoma. Paclitaxel combined with carboplatin was given for 6 cycles after an operation, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) was given at the beginning of chemotherapy for 3 cycles for ovarian function protection. Regular follow-up (the last follow-up was performed 48 months after the operation) of gynecological ultrasound and tumor indicators did not indicate recurrence. In clinical practice, it is necessary to pay attention to the symptoms such as abdominal pain in adolescent females. Routine non-invasive pelvic ultrasound is recommended to fully evaluate the nature of the tumor before surgery, and decide the operation mode. Also, intraoperative frozen pathology of the tissue should be performed as soon as possible.
Understanding the dog population in the Republic of Ireland: insight from existing data sources?
Authors: More Simon J. , Collins Daniel M. , Meunier Natascha V. , Messam Locksley L. McV. , Doyle Rob , Maguire Aiden , Murray Sean , Reilly Patricia , Lawler Catherine
Published: July 2022

Background

Reliable information about national pet dog populations is an important contributor to informed decision-making, both by governments and national dog welfare organisations. In some countries, there is an improved understanding of aspects of the national pet dog population, but as yet limited published information is available in Ireland. The current study reviews the utility of existing data to inform our understanding of recent changes to the pet dog population in Ireland, including both biological and organisational processes.

Results

Based on national data on dog licencing and microchipping registration, pet dog numbers have remained relatively stable in recent years (ie prior to the COVID-19 pandemic). Since 2015, there has been a substantial decrease in the number of dogs managed through dog control centres. Although the completeness of the data are likely variable, there appears to be substantial, and increasing, number of dogs moving from Ireland to other countries, including UK, Sweden, Italy, Germany and Singapore. We also note an increase (albeit much smaller) in the number of dogs being moved into Ireland.

Conclusions

This study highlights the challenges faced when using existing national data to gain insights into the dog population of Ireland. The linking of existing national databases (individual dog identification, dog licencing, dog control statistics) has the potential to improve both the representativeness and accuracy of information about the Irish pet dog population. In the next phases of our work, we will focus on the work of dog welfare organisations, given both the increased role played by these organisations and the substantial public funding that has been committed in this sector.
Optimization algorithm for feedback and feedforward policies towards robot control robust to sensing failures
Authors: Kobayashi Taisuke , Yoshizawa Kenta
Published: July 2022

Background and problem statement

Model-free or learning-based control, in particular, reinforcement learning (RL), is expected to be applied for complex robotic tasks. Traditional RL requires that a policy to be optimized is state-dependent, that means, the policy is a kind of feedback (FB) controllers. Due to the necessity of correct state observation in such a FB controller, it is sensitive to sensing failures. To alleviate this drawback of the FB controllers, feedback error learning integrates one of them with a feedforward (FF) controller. RL can be improved by dealing with the FB/FF policies, but to the best of our knowledge, a methodology for learning them in a unified manner has not been developed.

Contribution

In this paper, we propose a new optimization problem for optimizing both the FB/FF policies simultaneously. Inspired by control as inference, the proposed optimization problem considers minimization/maximization of divergences between trajectories, one is predicted by the composed policy and a stochastic dynamics model, and others are inferred as optimal/non-optimal ones. By approximating the stochastic dynamics model using variational method, we naturally derive a regularization between the FB/FF policies. In numerical simulations and a robot experiment, we verified that the proposed method can stably optimize the composed policy even with the different learning law from the traditional RL. In addition, we demonstrated that the FF policy is robust to the sensing failures and can hold the optimal motion.
Assessment of salivary alpha amylase and mucin-4 before and after non-surgical treatment of peri-implant mucositis
Authors: Aldulaijan Hajer A. , Al-Zawawi Abeer S. , Shaheen Marwa Y. , Ali Dena , Divakar Darshan Devang , Basudan Amani M.
Published: July 2022

Background

The present study was based on the null hypothesis that there is no difference in clinicoradiographic parameters and whole salivary alpha amylase (AA) and mucin-4 levels before and after non-surgical mechanical debridement (NSMD) of patients with peri-implant mucositis (PM). The aim was to assess whole salivary AA and mucin-4 levels before and after treatment of PM.

Methods

Patients with PM (Group-1) and individuals without peri-implant diseases (Group-2) were included. Demographic data was collected and peri-implant modified plaque and bleeding indices (mPI and mBI, respectively), probing depth (PD) and crestal bone loss were measured at baseline. Levels of AA and mucin-4 were assessed in unstimulated whole saliva samples. All patients underwent full-mouth non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) and NSMD; and clinical parameters and salivary biomarkers were re-assessed after 3 months. Level of significance was set at P < 0.01.

Results

Twenty-six and 32 individuals were included in groups 1 and 2, respectively. None of the participants had periodontitis. At baseline clinical periodontal parameters (PI [P < 0.001], GI [P < 0.001], clinical AL [P < 0.001] and PD [P < 0.001]) were significantly high in Group-1 than Group-2. At 3-month follow-up, there was a statistically significant reduction in clinical periodontal and peri-implant parameters (PI [P < 0.01], GI [P < 0.01], and PD [P < 0.01]) in Group-1 compared with their baseline values. At baseline, salivary AA levels were significantly high in Group-1 than Group-2 (P < 0.01). At 3-month follow-up, there was no significant difference in whole salivary AA levels among patients in groups 1 and 2.

Conclusions

The AA and mucin-4 levels are potential biomarkers for evaluation of peri-implant diseases including PM. Mechanical instrumentation continues to be the most predictable treatment option for the management of peri-implant diseases.