bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Methemoglobinemia caused by nitrobenzene poisoning
Authors: Zhao Liwen , Jian Tianzi , Shi Longke , Li Yaqian , Wen Zixin , Guo Lanlan , Li Qilu , Jian Xiangdong
Published: February 2023

Nitrobenzene poisoning is uncommon, with most cases occurring in the dye, paint, and other chemical industries. Nitrobenzene enters the body mainly through the skin, respiratory tract, and oral cavity. Nitrobenzene poisoning symptoms include hypermethemoglobinemia, hemolytic anemia, liver and kidney dysfunction, cardiogenic pulmonary edema, and toxic encephalopathy, which endanger people’s lives. Therefore, we present a case of nitrobenzene poisoning caused by skin absorption, focusing on its clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes. A 58 years-old man presented to our department with confusion and cyanosis. He has a history of hypertension and cerebral infarction. The patient was diagnosed with moderate occupational acute benzene poisoning with nitro compounds. Symptomatic support, methylene blue, and other antioxidant treatments were commenced after diagnosis. After treatment, the patient’s condition gradually improved, and he was discharged.
TSC2/PKD1 contiguous deletion syndrome in a pregnant woman: A case report
Authors: Huang Shaofang , Xu Kangxiang , Xu Yuqi , Zhao Lu , He Xiaoju
Published: February 2023

TSC2/PKD1 contiguous gene deletion syndrome is a disease caused by the deletions of the TSC2 and PKD1 genes. This is a rare contiguous genomic disease with clinical manifestations of tuberous sclerosis and polycystic kidney disease. To our knowledge, this case report is the first known case of TSC2/PKD1 contiguous gene deletions in a pregnant woman. The patient had multiple renal cysts, angiomyolipoma, hypomelanotic macules, shagreen patch, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, multiple cortical tubers, and subependymal nodules. The patient underwent genetic testing. To exclude genetic defects in the fetus, prenatal fetal genetic testing was performed after obtaining the patient’s consent. We found an increasing trend in the size of renal cysts and renal angiomyolipomas in patients with polycystic kidney with tuberous sclerosis during pregnancy. Through enhanced clinical monitoring of patients and prenatal genetic testing of the fetus, timely and effective clinical intervention for the mother may be achieved, thus obtaining the best possible outcome for both mother and fetus.
Demonstrating quality control procedures for fMRI in DPABI
Authors: Lu Bin , Yan Chao-Gan
Published: February 2023

Quality control (QC) is an important stage for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies. The methods for fMRI QC vary in different fMRI preprocessing pipelines. The inflating sample size and number of scanning sites for fMRI studies further add to the difficulty and working load of the QC procedure. Therefore, as a constituent part of the Demonstrating Quality Control Procedures in fMRI research topic in Frontiers, we preprocessed a well-organized open-available dataset using DPABI pipelines to illustrate the QC procedure in DPABI. Six categories of DPABI-derived reports were used to eliminate images without adequate quality. After the QC procedure, twelve participants (8.6%) were categorized as excluded and eight participants (5.8%) were categorized as uncertain. More automatic QC tools were needed in the big-data era while visually inspecting images was still indispensable now.
Probiotic has prophylactic effect on spatial memory deficits by modulating gut microbiota characterized by the inhibitory growth of Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhang Jie , He Zengyang , Liu Lulu , Li Huailong , Wang Tian , Zhu Xuefeng , Wang Yanqing , Zhu Dongliang , Ning Yong , Xu Yi
Published: February 2023

Background: The aim of this study is to interrogate the prophylactic effect of probiotic on the lead-induced spatial memory impairment, as well as the underlying mechanisms based on gut microbiota.

Methods: Rats were exposed postnatally to 100 ppm of lead acetate during lactation (from postnatal day 1 to 21), to establish the memory deficits model. A probiotic bacterium, namely Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, was administered by drinking into pregnant rats with a dosage of 109 CFU/rat/day till birth. At postnatal week 8 (PNW8), the rats were subjected to Morris water maze and Y-maze test, with fecal samples collected for 16S rRNA sequencing. Besides, the inhibitory effect of Lb. rhamnosus on Escherichia coli was carried out in bacterial co-culture.

Results: Female rats prenatally exposed to probiotic improved their performances in the behavioral test, indicating that probiotic could protect rats from memory deficits caused by postnatal lead exposure. This bioremediation activity varies depending on the intervention paradigm used. As revealed by microbiome analysis, although administered in a distinct period from lead exposure, Lb. rhamnosus further changed the microbial structure disrupted by lead exposure, suggesting an effective transgenerational intervention. Of note, gut microbiota, represented by Bacteroidota, varied greatly depending on the intervention paradigm as well as the developmental stage. The concerted alterations were revealed between some keystone taxa and behavioral abnormality, including lactobacillus and E. coli. To this end, an in vitro co-culture was created to demonstrate that Lb. rhamnosus could inhibit the growth of E. coli with direct contact, which is dependent on the growth condition under study. In addition, in vivo infection of E. coli O157 aggravated memory dysfunction, which could also be rescued by probiotic colonization.

Conclusions: Early probiotic intervention could prevent organisms from lead-induced memory decline in later life through reprogramming gut microbiota and inhibiting E. coli, providing a promising approach to ameliorate the cognitive damage with environmental origins.
Healthcare coverage affects survival of EGFR-mutant Thai lung cancer patients
Authors: Khiewngam Khantong , Oranratnachai Songporn , Kamprerasart Kaettipong , Kunakorntham Patratorn , Sanvarinda Pimtip , Trachu Narumol , Pimsa Pongput , Wiwitkeyoonwong Jirapath , Thamrongjirapat Thanaporn , Dejthevaporn Thitiya , Sirachainan Ekaphop , Reungwetwattana Thanyanan
Published: February 2023

Background

Despite significant benefits of epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) treatment in patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC, access remains limited in Thailand and elsewhere.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients with locally advanced/recurrent NSCLC and known EGFR mutation (EGFRm) status treated at Ramathibodi Hospital (2012–2017). Prognostic factors for overall survival (OS), including treatment type and healthcare coverage, were analyzed using Cox regression.

Results

Of 750 patients, 56.3% were EGFRm-positive. After first-line therapy (n=646), 29.4% received no subsequent (second-line) treatment. EGFR-TKI-treated EGFRm-positive patients survived significantly longer than EGFRm-negative patients without EGFR-TKIs (median OS [mOS] 36.4 vs. 11.9 months; hazard ratio HR=0.38 [95%CI 0.32–0.46], P<0.001). Cox regression indicated significantly longer OS in patients with comprehensive healthcare coverage that included reimbursement of EGFR-TKIs, versus basic coverage (mOS 27.2 vs. 18.3 months; adjusted HR=0.73 [95%CI 0.59–0.90]). Compared with best supportive care (BSC; reference), EGFR-TKI-treated patients survived significantly longer (mOS 36.5 months; adjusted HR (aHR)=0.26 [95%CI 0.19–0.34]), and versus chemotherapy alone (14.5 months; aHR=0.60 [95%CI 0.47–0.78]). In EGFRm-positive patients (n=422), relative survival benefit of EGFR-TKI treatment remained highly significant (aHR[EGFR-TKI]=0.19 [95%CI 0.12–0.29]; aHR(chemotherapy only)=0.50 [95%CI 0.30–0.85]; reference:BSC), indicating that healthcare coverage (reimbursement) affected treatment choice and survival.

Conclusion

Our analysis describes EGFRm prevalence and survival benefit of EGFR-TKI therapy for EGFRm-positive NSCLC patients treated from 2012–2017, one of the largest such Thai datasets. Together with research by others, these findings contributed evidence supporting the decision to broaden erlotinib access on healthcare schemes in Thailand from 2021, demonstrating the value of local real-world outcome data for healthcare policy decision-making.
Patient-specific virtual three-dimensional surgical navigation for gastric cancer surgery: A prospective study for preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance
Authors: Park Sung Hyun , Kim Ki-Yoon , Kim Yoo Min , Hyung Woo Jin
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) can accurately demonstrate organs and vascular structures around the stomach, and its potential role for image guidance is becoming increasingly established. However, solely using two-dimensional CT images to identify critical anatomical structures is undeniably challenging and not surgeon-friendly. To validate the feasibility of a patient-specific 3-D surgical navigation system for preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance during robotic gastric cancer surgery.

Materials and methods

A prospective single-arm open-label observational study was conducted. Thirty participants underwent robotic distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer using a virtual surgical navigation system that provides patient-specific 3-D anatomical information with a pneumoperitoneum model using preoperative CT-angiography. Turnaround time and the accuracy of detecting vascular anatomy with its variations were measured, and perioperative outcomes were compared with a control group after propensity-score matching during the same study period.

Results

Among 36 registered patients, 6 were excluded from the study. Patient-specific 3-D anatomy reconstruction was successfully implemented without any problems in all 30 patients using preoperative CT. All vessels encountered during gastric cancer surgery were successfully reconstructed, and all vascular origins and variations were identical to operative findings. The operative data and short-term outcomes between the experimental and control group were comparable. The experimental group showed shorter anesthesia time (218.6 min vs. 230.3 min; P=0.299), operative time (177.1 min vs. 193.9 min; P=0.137), and console time (129.3 min vs. 147.4 min; P=0.101) than the control group, although the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Patient-specific 3-D surgical navigation system for robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer is clinically feasible and applicable with an acceptable turnaround time. This system enables patient-specific preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation by visualizing all the anatomy required for gastrectomy in 3-D models without any error.

Clinical trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT05039333.
Ectopic scrotum and penoscrotal transposition: Case report and literature review
Authors: Huang Haoran , Liu Xiangxia , Li Zuoqing , Lin Junjie , Yang Hai , Xu Zhe
Published: February 2023

Background

Ectopic scrotum (ES) is an extremely rare congenital scrotal malformation. Ectopic scrotum with VATER/VACTERL [vertebral defects (V), anal atresia or anorectal malformations (A), cardiac defects (C), tracheoesophageal fistula with or without esophageal atresia (TE), cardiac defects, renal malformations (R), and limb defects (L)] association is even rarer. There are no uniform guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.

Clinical case

We described a 2-year-5-month-old boy who has ectopic scrotum and penoscrotal transposition and reviewed relevant literature in this report. We performed laparoscopy exploration, rotation flap scrotoplasty, and orchiopexy and achieved a great result during the postoperative follow-up.

Conclusions

Combined with the previous literature, we made a summary to come up with a plan for the diagnosis and treatment of ectopic scrotum. Rotation flap scrotoplasty and orchiopexy are worthy of considering operative methods in treating ES. For penoscrotal transposition or VATER/VACTERL association, we can treat the diseases individually.
Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis immunity among healthcare professionals and pregnant women in the Moscow region, Russian federation: A preliminary cross-sectional study
Authors: Basov Artem A. , Zhernov Yury V. , Kashutina Maria I. , Kashkovskaya Natalia N. , Kombarova Svetlana Yu. , Enilenis Inga I. , Severova Lyudmila P. , Fadeeva Inna A. , Vysochanskaya Sonya O. , Belova Elena V. , Shashina Ekaterina A. , Makarova Valentina V. , Shcherbakov Denis V. , Skopin Anton Yu. , Mitrokhin Oleg V.
Published: February 2023

Despite more than 50 years of primary immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus in Russia, complicated illnesses, including fatal ones, still occur. The goal of this preliminary cross-sectional study is to see how well pregnant women and healthcare workers are protected against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus. The required sample size (pregnant women and healthcare professionals, as well as pregnant women of two age categories) for this preliminary cross-sectional study was calculated using a confidence value of 0.95 and a probability of 0.05. The required number of participants in each group calculated sample size must be at least 59 people. In the Moscow region (Solnechnogorsk city, Russia), a cross-sectional study of pregnant patients and healthcare professionals interacting with children regularly as part of their job from numerous medical organizations was conducted in the year 2021 (n = 655). Antibodies to diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis toxoids and microorganisms were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The STATISTICA and IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0 were used to process the study results statistically. Descriptive statistics methods, the Mann–Whitney U-test, discriminant analysis with the stepwise selection and analysis of ROC-curves were applied. IgG against diphtheria was found in 99.5% of pregnant women, tetanus in 91.5%, and pertussis in only 36.5%. According to the results of the discriminant analysis, the value of IgG to pertussis is linked to the value of IgA to pertussis and the gestational periods. Immunity to diphtheria was discovered in 99.1% of medical personnel, tetanus in 96.9%, and pertussis in 43.9%, no significant variations with age. When comparing the levels of immunity of pregnant women and healthcare professionals, it was shown that healthcare workers have greater levels of immunity against diphtheria and tetanus. The novel contribution of this study is that it will reveal the proportion of those vulnerable to pertussis, diphtheria, and tetanus among health workers and pregnant women in all age groups under the current national immunization program in Russia. Considering the data obtained from the preliminary cross-sectional study, we believe that it is necessary to conduct a full-scale study on a larger sample and, based on that, make certain changes to the national immunization program in Russia.
Autism spectrum disorder diagnosis using a new panel of immune- and inflammatory-related serum biomarkers: A case-control multicenter study
Authors: Gesundheit Benjamin , Zisman Philip David , Hochbaum Leah , Posen Yehudit , Steinberg Avraham , Friedman Gerald , Ravkin Hersh D. , Rubin Eitan , Faktor Ouriel , Ellis Ronald
Published: February 2023

Background and objectives

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) present with distinctive clinical features. No objective laboratory assay has been developed to establish a diagnosis of ASD. Considering the known immunological associations with ASD, immunological biomarkers might enable ASD diagnosis and intervention at an early age when the immature brain has the highest degree of plasticity. This work aimed to identify diagnostic biomarkers discriminating between children with ASD and typically developing (TD) children.

Methods

A multicenter, diagnostic case-control study trial was conducted in Israel and Canada between 2014 and 2021. In this trial, a single blood sample was collected from 102 children with ASD as defined in Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [DSM)-IV (299.00) or DSM-V (299.00)], and from 97 typically developing control children aged 3–12 years. Samples were analyzed using a high-throughput, multiplexed ELISA array which quantifies 1,000 human immune/inflammatory-related proteins. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to obtain a predictor from these results using 10-fold cross validation.

Results

Twelve biomarkers were identified that provided an overall accuracy of 0.82 ± 0.09 (sensitivity: 0.87 ± 0.08; specificity: 0.77 ± 0.14) in diagnosing ASD with a threshold of 0.5. The resulting model had an area under the curve of 0.86 ± 0.06 (95% CI: 0.811–0.889). Of the 102 ASD children included in the study, 13% were negative for this signature. Most of the markers included in all models have been reported to be associated with ASD and/or autoimmune diseases.

Conclusion

The identified biomarkers may serve as the basis of an objective assay for early and accurate diagnosis of ASD. In addition, the markers may shed light on ASD etiology and pathogenesis. It should be noted that this was only a pilot, case-control diagnostic study, with a high risk of bias. The findings should be validated in larger prospective cohorts of consecutive children suspected of ASD.
New concepts on level graphs of vague graphs with application in medicine
Authors: Shi Xiaolong , Jiang Wubian , Khan Aysha , Akhoundi Maryam
Published: February 2023

Vague graphs (VGs), belonging to the fuzzy graph (FG) family, have good capabilities when facing problems that cannot be expressed by FGs. When an element membership is unclear, neutrality is a good option that can be well-supported by a VG. The previous definitions limitations in FG have led us to offer new definitions in VGs. Therefore, this study introduces the notion of vague edge graph (VEG) ζ̂=(V,N), in which V is a crisp vertex set and N is a vague relation (VR) on M, presenting some of its properties. Using λ-level graphs (LGs) and (λ, δ)-LGs, we characterize VG ζ = (M, N), where M is a vague set (VS) on V and N is a VR on V. Medical diagnosis is one of the most sensitive and important issues in the medical sciences. If it is not done properly, the patient will suffer irreparable damage. Therefore, an application of VG in the diagnosis of the disease is expressed.
Destination memory: Memory associated with social interactions
Authors: El Haj Mohamad
Published: February 2023

Within the field of memory research, studies on destination memory (e.g., the ability to remember to whom information was previously told) show how it is closely associated with social cognition. The present review thus summarizes the literature on destination memory and demonstrates how it involves social interaction. It offers a comprehensive picture of the many factors that may influence destination memory and distinguishes factors related to the recipient (e.g., familiarity, emotional states, and distinctiveness/attractiveness) and sender of information (e.g., the sender’s extroversion) in social communications. It suggests that destination memory involves the ability of the sender to infer the cognitive/affective state of the recipient and to attribute the output message to a recipient-related stereotype. Extrovert senders may also easily remember the destination as they typically value social communication, public sharing and processing of social information. Destination memory also involves features such as familiarity, age, emotional state, distinctiveness, and attractiveness of the recipient. By offering a comprehensive framework of how destination memory functions in everyday life interactions, the present review shows how destination memory is intimately associated with communicative efficacy and social interactions.
Companion robots to mitigate loneliness among older adults: Perceptions of benefit and possible deception
Authors: Berridge Clara , Zhou Yuanjin , Robillard Julie M. , Kaye Jeffrey
Published: February 2023

Objective

Given growing interest in companion robots to mitigate loneliness, large-scale studies are needed to understand peoples’ perspectives on the use of robots to combat loneliness and attendant ethical issues. This study examines opinions about artificial companion (AC) robots regarding deception with dementia and impact on loneliness.

Methods

Data are from a survey of 825 members of the OHSU Research via Internet Technology and Experience cohort (response rate = 45%). Sixty percent (n = 496) of the age diverse sample (range = 25–88; M = 64; SD = 13.17) is over 64, allowing us to compare across age and consider current and future older adults. Ordinal logistic regressions examined relationships between age, health, and other socio-demographic characteristics and perceptions of impact on loneliness and comfort with deception.

Results

Most participants (68.7%) did not think an AC robot would make them feel less lonely and felt somewhat-to-very uncomfortable (69.3%) with the idea of being allowed to believe that an artificial companion is human. In adjusted models, one additional year of age was associated with lower likelihood of perceived benefit of reducing loneliness [Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.98; (0.97–0.99), p = 0.003] and lower comfort with deception [OR = 0.99; (0.97–1.00), p = 0.044]. Being female was associated with lower likelihood of comfort with deception [OR = 0.68; (0.50–0.93), p = 0.014] and high confidence using computers with greater comfort [OR = 2.18; (1.42–3.38), p < 0.001].

Discussion

There was not strong support for AC robots to mitigate loneliness. Most participants were uncomfortable with this form of deception, indicating need for design solutions for those who want to avoid this possibility, as well as greater attentiveness to desirability and comfort across age and gender.
Effects of ambient particulate exposure on blood lipid levels in hypertension inpatients
Authors: Gao Yanfang , Li Chenwei , Huang Lei , Huang Kun , Guo Miao , Zhou Xingye , Zhang Xiaokang
Published: February 2023

Background

With modernization development, multiple studies of atmospheric particulate matter exposure conducted in China have confirmed adverse cardiovascular health effects. However, there are few studies on the effect of particulate matter on blood lipid levels in patients with cardiovascular disease, especially in southern China. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between short- and long-term exposure to ambient particulate matter and the levels of blood lipid markers in hypertension inpatients in Ganzhou, China.

Methods

Data on admission lipid index testing for hypertension inpatients which were divided into those with and without arteriosclerosis disease were extracted from the hospital's big data center from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020, and air pollution and meteorology data were acquired from the China urban air quality real time release platform from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020 and climatic data center from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020, with data integrated according to patient admission dates. A semi-parametric generalized additive model (GAM) was established to calculate the association between ambient particulate matter and blood lipid markers in hypertension inpatients with different exposure time in 1 year.

Results

Long-term exposure to particulate matter was associated with increased Lp(a) in three kinds of people, and with increased TC and decreased HDL-C in total hypertension and hypertension with arteriosclerosis. But particulate matter was associated with increased HDL-C for hypertension inpatients without arteriosclerosis, at the time of exposure in the present study. It is speculated that hypertension inpatients without arteriosclerosis has better statement than hypertension inpatients with arteriosclerosis on human lipid metabolism.

Conclusion

Long-term exposure to ambient particulate matter is associated with adverse lipid profile changes in hypertension inpatients, especially those with arteriosclerosis. Ambient particulate matter may increase the risk of arteriosclerotic events in hypertensive patients.
Behavioral profiling in children and adolescents with Malan syndrome
Authors: Alfieri Paolo , Montanaro Federica Alice Maria , Macchiaiolo Marina , Collotta Martina , Caciolo Cristina , Galassi Paolo , Panfili Filippo Maria , Cortellessa Fabiana , Zollino Marcella , Chinali Marcello , Accadia Maria , Seri Marco , Bartuli Andrea , Mammì Corrado , Tartaglia Marco , Vicari Stefano , Priolo Manuela
Published: February 2023

Malan syndrome (MALNS) is an ultra-rare genetic disorder caused by heterozygous chromosomal microdeletions involving the 19p13.2 region or loss-of-function variants in the NFIX gene. It is characterized by specific phenotypical features, intellectual disability (ID), and limitations in adaptive functioning and behavioral problems. In a previous work, we defined the cognitive, adaptive, linguistic and visuomotor ability profiles in a group of 15 MALNS individuals, providing quantitative data from standardized evaluations. Here, we further extend the characterization of MALNS by analyzing the behavioral and psychopathological comorbidities of the same cohort, administering standardized tests. Children were evaluated from October 2020 to January 2022. Retrospective data analysis was also performed. Assessment consisted of clinical observations, structured parent interviews, and parent-reported questionnaires. For each scale, comparisons between subtests were performed. Results of our analysis show that the most prevalent psychiatric comorbidities are represented by anxiety symptoms (including GAD, separation anxiety and specific phobias), ADHD, autistic symptoms, and social and attention problems. Of note, minimal or no signs of ASD were observed. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the psychopathological and behavioral comorbidities, together with cognitive impairment, language problems and sensory difficulties interfere with development, daily activities and social participation, therefore contributing to the severity of the disability associated with MALNS. Awareness of this profile by professionals and caregivers can promote prompt diagnosis and support cognitive and behavioral development.
Incentivizing community health workers for scaling up mental health care in rural communities in India: A critical look at principles that work
Authors: Daniel Mercian , Maulik Pallab K.
Published: February 2023

Given the low availability of trained mental health professionals, there is evidence on task sharing where basic mental healthcare can be provided by trained community health workers (CHWs). A potential way to reduce the mental health care gap in rural and urban areas in India is to utilize the services of community health workers known as Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs). There is a paucity of literature that have evaluated incentivizing non-physician health workers (NPHWs) vis-à-vis maintaining a competent and motivated health workforce especially in the Asia and Pacific regions. The principles around what works and does not work in terms of a mix of incentive packages for CHWs, while providing for mental healthcare in rural areas have not been adequately evaluated. Moreover, performance-based incentives which are receiving increasing attention from health systems worldwide, though evidence on the effectiveness of these incentives in Pacific and Asian countries is limited. CHW programs that have shown to be effective rely on an interlinked incentive framework at the individual, community, and health system levels. Drawing learnings from the past eight years in implementing the SMART (systematic medical appraisal, referral and treatment) Mental Health Program in rural India, we critically examine some of the emerging principles in incentivizing ASHAs while scaling up mental healthcare in communities using a systems approach.
Digital divide, e-government and trust in public service: The key role of education
Authors: Mesa Diego
Published: February 2023

The Italian public administration (PA) has always had problems with slowness and inefficiency. In 2021, the Italian government made a massive investment in digitizing PA as part of an extraordinary recovery plan, with more than 200 billion euro to revitalize the country. This paper aims to investigate how educational inequalities affect the relationship between Italian citizens and PA in this phase of the digital transition. The study is based on a web survey conducted in March and April 2022 among a national sample of 3,000 citizens aged 18–64. The data shows that more than three-quarters of respondents have already used a public service at least once via an online channel. Few are aware of the reform plan, however, and more than one-third fear that the digitization of public services will make things worse for citizens. Through a regression analysis, the study confirms the centrality of the influence of education on the use of digital public services compared to the other spatial and social variables considered. Trust in PA is also correlated with education and employment status and is higher among those who have used digital public services. The survey thus highlights that the educational and cultural dimension is a crucial aspect as a lever to counter the digital divide and promote digital citizenship rights. It reveals the need to activate facilitation and accompaniment processes for citizens with less digital skills and experience who risk being excluded or penalized by the new arrangement and having their distrust toward the PA and state exacerbated.
Changes in Awareness Toward Minor’s Organ Donation Through Structured Information; Survey
Authors: Choi YoungRok , Lee Sanghoon , Lee Yeonhee , Cho Min Hyun , Ihn Kyong , Yoon Kyung Chul , Kang Ji-Man , Kim Seong Heon , Kang Hee Gyung , Yi Nam-Joon
Published: February 2023

This study analyzed survey results regarding awareness of living minors’ organ donation. The questionnaires focused on changes in how respondents felt about donations by living minors after eliciting the uncertainty of long-term outcomes for living donors and recipients. The respondents were categorized as minors, adults affiliated with non-medical jobs (Non-Meds), and adults affiliated with medical jobs (Meds). The rates of awareness of living organ donation were significantly different; minors at 86.2%, non-Meds at 82.0%, and Meds at 98.7% (p < 0.001). Only 41.4% of Minors and 32.0% of Non-Meds were aware of organ donation by minors, while 70.3% of Meds were (p < 0.001). The response rate of opposition to organ donation by minors was highest for Meds and remained the same before and after (54.4%–57.7%, p = 0.311). However, the opposition rate in Non-Meds significantly increased (32.4%–46.7%) after learning about the uncertainty of long-term outcomes (p = 0.009). The study found that Non-Meds lacked adequate knowledge regarding organ donation by minors and their potential lethal outcomes. Their attitudes toward organ donation by minors could be changed by giving structured information. It is necessary to provide exact information and raise social awareness regarding organ donation by living minors.
High-Performance Layered Oxides for Sodium-Ion Batteries Achieved through Combined Aluminum Substitution and Surface Treatment
Authors: Kalapsazova Mariya , Kukeva Rositsa , Harizanova Sonya , Markov Pavel , Nihtianova Diana , Zhecheva Ekaterina , Stoyanova Radostina
Published: February 2023

Layered sodium transition metal oxides belong to electrode materials for sodium-ion batteries that combine, in a better way, high performance with environmental requirements. However, their cycling stability is still far from desirable. Herein, we demonstrate a rational approach to control the cycling stability of sodium-deficient nickel manganese oxides, Na2/3Ni1/2Mn1/2O2, with two- and three-layer stacking through Al substitution and Al2O3 treatment. Layered Na2/3Ni1/2Mn1/2O2 oxide displays a limited ability to accommodate aluminum in its structure (i.e., up to 8 at. %). The substitution of Ni ions with electrochemically inactive Al3+ ions and keeping the amount of Mn ions in Na2/3Ni1/2−xAlxMn1/2O2 leads to the stabilization of the two-layer stacking and favors the participation of lattice oxygen in the electrochemical reaction in addition to Ni ions. This results in an increase in the specific capacity of the Al-substituted oxides. Furthermore, the kinetics of the cationic migration between layers occurring during oxide cycling was manipulated by oxide morphology. The best cycling stability is observed for Na2/3Ni0.42Al0.08Mn1/2O2 having a column-like morphology of stacked plate-like particles along the common faces. The treatment of the layered oxides with Al2O3 mitigates the Mn dissolution reaction during electrode cycling in the NaPF6-based electrolyte, thus contributing to a high cycling stability.
Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers in Familial Breast Cancer
Authors: Deb Siddhartha , Chakrabarti Anannya , Fox Stephen B.
Published: February 2023

Large numbers of breast cancers arise within a familial context, either with known inherited germline mutations largely within DNA repair genes, or with a strong family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer, with unknown genetic underlying mechanisms. These cancers appear to be different to sporadic cases, with earlier age of onset, increased multifocality and with association with specific breast cancer histological and phenotypic subtypes. Furthermore, tumours showing homologous recombination deficiency, due to loss of BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2 and CHEK2 function, have been shown to be especially sensitive to platinum-based chemotherapeutics and PARP inhibition. While there is extensive research and data accrued on risk stratification and genetic predisposition, there are few data pertaining to relevant prognostic and predictive biomarkers within this breast cancer subgroup. The following is a review of such biomarkers in male and female familial breast cancer, although the data for the former are particularly sparse.
The Profile of Exopolysaccharides Produced by Various Lactobacillus Species from Silage during Not-Fat Milk Fermentation
Authors: Nikitina Elena , Petrova Tatyana , Sungatullina Alya , Bondar Oxana , Kharina Maria , Mikshina Polina , Gavrilova Elizaveta , Kayumov Airat
Published: February 2023

The exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and released into fermented milk play a protective role from stress factors as well as improve emulsifying and thickening properties of the product, reduce syneresis, and increase elasticity. Here we report the relationship between the properties, composition, and microstructure of EPS produced by six different strains of lactobacilli (L. bulgaricus and five strains isolated from silage). The presence of fructose together with negative-charged uronic acid was found to play a significant role in changing the EPS properties. Thus, the increased fraction of rhamnose and arabinose and a decrease in xylose leads to compaction of the EPS, decreased porosity and increased both OH- and superoxide scavenging and Fe-chelating activities. By contrast, increased xylose and low rhamnose and arabinose apparently leads to loss of large aggregates and high DPPH activity and FRAP. The high content of glucose, however, provides the formation of large pores. The increased fructan fraction (69.9 mol%) with a high fraction of galacturonic (18.2 mol%) and glucuronic acids (6.7 mol%) apparently determines the highly porous spongy-folded EPS microstructure. Taken together, our results indicate that both the quantitative characteristics of the individual components of the fraction and the structural features of EPS are important for the antioxidant potential of fermented milk and depend on the strain used for milk fermentation, suggesting the advantage of a multicomponent starter to achieve the optimal beneficial properties of fermented milk.
The Chain of Custody in the Era of Modern Forensics: From the Classic Procedures for Gathering Evidence to the New Challenges Related to Digital Data
Authors: D’Anna Tommaso , Puntarello Maria , Cannella Giovanni , Scalzo Giovanni , Buscemi Roberto , Zerbo Stefania , Argo Antonina
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this work is to renew the interest and attention for the chain of custody in forensic medicine, its establishment and maintenance, protecting the integrity and validity of evidence as well as to analyze how over time the establishment of the chain of custody and the collection of evidence has evolved also in function of the advent of technology and the use of electronic devices connected to the network. The analysis of the various aspects of the chain of custody demonstrates how necessary it is for the professional figures involved in the phases of the investigation (especially those who manage the evidence and who have, therefore, designated the assignment) to know the procedures to follow, trace the movement and the handling of objects subjected to seizure, also for the purposes of toxicological and/or histological investigations. The knowledge of interferences or complications helps to reduce errors and safeguard the validity of the evidence, assuring the proceeding judicial authority that the evidence is authentic and that it is, in other words, the same evidence seized at the scene of the crime. Furthermore, the issue is particularly felt today, with the recent need to guarantee the originality of digital data. Following a careful review and analysis of the literature currently available in this regard, it is worth adding that further efforts are needed to formulate internationally validated guidelines, harmonizing the different reference criteria in forensic science and medical areas, given the current absence of good international practices valid in the field and applicable both in the case of physical evidence and in the case of seizure of digital evidence.
Immunoreactive Trypsinogen in Infants Born to Women with Cystic Fibrosis Taking Elexacaftor–Tezacaftor–Ivacaftor
Authors: Patel Payal , Yeley Jana , Brown Cynthia , Wesson Melissa , Lesko Barbara G. , Slaven James E. , Chmiel James F. , Jain Raksha , Sanders Don B.
Published: February 2023

Most people with cystic fibrosis (CF) are diagnosed following abnormal newborn screening (NBS), which begins with measurement of immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT) values. A case report found low concentrations of IRT in an infant with CF exposed to the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator, elexacaftor–tezacaftor–ivacaftor (ETI), in utero. However, IRT values in infants born to mothers taking ETI have not been systematically assessed. We hypothesized that ETI-exposed infants have lower IRT values than newborns with CF, CFTR-related metabolic syndrome/CF screen positive, inconclusive diagnosis (CRMS/CFSPID), or CF carriers. IRT values were collected from infants born in Indiana between 1 January 2020, and 2 June 2022, with ≥1 CFTR mutation. IRT values were compared to infants born to mothers with CF taking ETI followed at our institution. Compared to infants identified with CF (n = 51), CRMS/CFSPID (n = 21), and CF carriers (n = 489), ETI-exposed infants (n = 19) had lower IRT values (p < 0.001). Infants with normal NBS results for CF had similar median (interquartile range) IRT values, 22.5 (16.8, 30.6) ng/mL, as ETI-exposed infants, 18.9 (15.2, 26.5). IRT values from ETI-exposed infants were lower than for infants with abnormal NBS for CF. We recommend that NBS programs consider performing CFTR variant analysis for all ETI-exposed infants.
Clinical and Functional Results of Cementless Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty with a Minimum Follow Up of 5 Years—A Consecutive Cohort of 201 Patients
Authors: Panzram Benjamin , Barbian Frederik , Reiner Tobias , Hariri Mustafa , Renkawitz Tobias , Walker Tilman
Published: February 2023

The number of unicompartmental knee replacements (UKR) is increasing. Alongside various advantages, the revision rate of cemented UKR is higher compared to total knee arthroplasty (TKR). In contrast, cementless fixation shows reduced revision rates, compared to the cemented UKR. However, most of the recent literature is based on designer-dependent studies. In this retrospective, single-center cohort study, we investigated patients who underwent cementless Oxford UKR (OUKR) between 2012 and 2016 in our hospital with a minimum follow-up of five years. Clinical outcome was evaluated using the OKS, AKSS-O, AKSS-F, FFbH-OA, UCLA, SF-36, EQ-5D-3L, FJS, ROM, pain, and satisfaction measures. Survival analysis was performed with reoperation and revision as endpoints. We included 201 patients (216 knees) for clinical evaluation. All outcome parameters increased significantly from pre- to postoperative stages. The five-year survival rate was 96.1% for revision surgery and 94.9% for reoperation. The main reasons for revision were the progression of osteoarthritis, inlay dislocation, and tibial overstuffing. Two iatrogenic tibial fractures appeared. Cementless OUKR shows excellent clinical outcome and high survival rates after five years. The tibial plateau fracture in cementless UKR represents a serious complication and requires modification of the surgical technique.
SWEET: A Realistic Multiwavelength 3D Simulator for Automotive Perceptive Sensors in Foggy Conditions
Authors: Ben-Daoued Amine , Duthon Pierre , Bernardin Frédéric
Published: February 2023

Improving the reliability of automotive perceptive sensors in degraded weather conditions, including fog, is an important issue for road safety and the development of automated driving. Cerema has designed the PAVIN platform reproducing fog and rain conditions to evaluate optical automotive sensor performance under these conditions. In order to increase the variety of scenarios and technologies under test, the use of digital simulation becomes a major asset. The purpose of this paper is to revive the debate around the realism of the various models underlying the numerical methods. The simulation of the radiative transfer equation by Monte Carlo methods and by simplified noise models is examined. The results of this paper show some gaps in foggy scenes between the ray-tracing method, which is considered to be the most realistic, and simple models for contrast evaluation, which can have a particularly strong impact on obstacle detection algorithms.
On the Resistance of Cruciform Structures during Ship Collision and Grounding
Authors: Liu Hewei , Liu Kun , Wang Xiufei , Gao Zhenguo , Wang Jiaxia
Published: February 2023

This paper presents an experimental, numerical, and analytical study of a novel specimen subjected to local in-plane load, to investigate its crushing deformation and resistance. The specimen was designed and fabricated to simplify the cruciform structure in double-hulled vessels subjected to external loads during collision and grounding incidents. The study results will provide reliable insights into grounding scenarios as well as side collision scenarios of double-hulled vessels. A quasi-static indentation test and related numerical research showed good agreement regarding deformation mode and force–displacement response. On the basis of the experimental and numerical results, an analytical method is proposed to derive the deformation energy, the instantaneous resistance, and the mean resistance of the deformed structure. The analytical method was verified with recorded test data and a nonlinear finite element analysis. It enables a rapid assessment of the response of the structure under accidental loads, which is a guideline for the design of crashworthy hull structures and the assessment of their crashworthiness.
Cyclospora cayetanensis Infection in Developed Countries: Potential Endemic Foci?
Authors: Chacin-Bonilla Leonor , Santin Monica
Published: February 2023

Cyclospora cayetanensis infection has emerged as a significant public health concern worldwide. Developed countries are generally considered non-endemic for infection. However, sporadic cases and non-travel-related outbreaks of C. cayetanensis infections associated with domestically grown produce are becoming more common in developed countries. Cyclospora cayetanensis has been detected in fresh produce, surface water, wastewater, irrigation water, and soil in these countries, suggesting that the parasite may be more common in areas with advanced sanitation than previously thought and illustrating the potential risk for exposure and indigenous/autochthonous infections. The evidence suggests the possibility of foci of endemicity in developed countries, particularly in communities where sanitary conditions are compromised, and raises transmission issues that require further research to better define the risks for infection, how widespread C. cayetanensis may be in these areas, and to guide interventions against this infection. The main purpose of the present opinion was to evaluate the presence of cyclosporiasis in developed countries, which is a very important and ongoing issue in food safety.
Developing In Situ Chemometric Models with Raman Spectroscopy for Monitoring an API Disproportionation with a Complex Polymorphic Landscape
Authors: Mohan Shikhar , Li Yi , Chu Kevin , Shi Bing , De La Paz Liliana , Bakre Prarthana , Foti Chris , Rucker Victor , Lai Chiajen
Published: February 2023

An in situ Raman method was developed to characterize the disproportionation of two salts involving a complex polymorphic landscape comprising up to two metastable and one stable freebase forms. Few precedents exist for Raman calibration procedures for solid form quantitation involving more than two polymorphs, while no literature examples were found for cases with multiple metastable forms. Therefore, a new Raman calibration procedure was proposed by directly using disproportionation experiments to generate multiple calibration samples encompassing a range of polymorph ratios through in-line Raman measurements complemented by off-line reference X-ray diffraction measurements. The developed Raman methods were capable of accurately quantitating each solid form in situ when solid concentration variation was incorporated into the calibration dataset. The kinetic understanding of the thermodynamically driven polymorphic conversions gained from this Raman method guided the selection of the salt best suited for the delivery of the active ingredient in the drug product. This work provided a spectroscopic and mathematical approach for simultaneously quantitating multiple polymorphs from a complex mixture of solids with the objective of real-time monitoring.
A Systematic Review Exploring the Effectiveness of Mindfulness for Sexual Functioning in Women with Cancer
Authors: Banbury Samantha , Chandler Chris , Lusher Joanne
Published: February 2023

Sexual intimacy is a basic human need that is associated with quality of life whereby its absence can significantly impact both interpersonal and personal wellbeing. This systematic review aimed to provide an up-to-date evaluation of the available literature on mindfulness treatments for sexual functioning in women diagnosed with cancer. Electronic searches including PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science and registered clinical trials yielded 10 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that treatment intervention designs varied and included mixed methods, randomised clinical trials, single arm non-randomised trials and those with the absence of any control. Furthermore, both brief and longer-term mindfulness interventions were trialled across different sexual domains. Whilst inconclusive, mindfulness-based interventions appear to support sexual function and quality of life in both early- and post-cancer survivors. However, in some instances, there were outcome inconsistencies in sexual desire, arousal and orgasm. This review has identified a current shortage in research on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based treatments for supporting sexual functioning in women with cancer; and so far, no research has been conducted in palliative care. This unmet need in supporting sexual functioning in women with cancer, including palliative care, carries important implications for both psychosexual and oncological healthcare services as sexual intimacy does not end with cancer diagnosis or prognosis.