bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHMM Object Detection Based on Polygon Contour Features by PSM
Authors: Zhuo Shufang , Huang Yanwei
Published: July 2022

Since the conventional split-merge algorithm is sensitive to the object scale variance and splitting starting point, a piecewise split-merge polygon approximation method is proposed to extract the object contour features. Specifically, the contour corner is used as the starting point for the contour piecewise approximation to reduce the sensitivity of the contour segment on the starting point; then, the split-merge algorithm is used to implement the polygon approximation for each contour segments. Both the distance ratio and the arc length ratio instead of the distance error are used as the iterative stop condition to improve the robustness to the object scale variance. Both the angle and length as two features describe the shape of the contour polygon, and affect each other along the contour order relationship. Since they have a strong coupling relationship. To improve the description correction of the contour, these two features are combined to construct a Coupled Hidden Markov Model to detect the object by calculating the probability of the contour feature. The proposed algorithm is validated on ETHZ Shape Classes and INRIA Horses standard datasets. Compared with other contour-based object detection algorithms, the proposed algorithm reduces the complexity of contour description, improves the robustness of contour features to scale variance, and has a higher object detection rate.
Leukotrienes vs. Montelukast – Activity, Metabolism, and Toxicity Hints for Repurposing
Authors: Marques Cátia F. , Marques M. Matilde , Justino Gonçalo C.
Published: July 2022

Increasing environmental distress is associated with a growing asthma incidence and, with no treatments available, montelukast (MTK) – an antagonist of the cysteinyl leukotrienes receptor 1 – is widely used in the management of symptoms among adults and children. Recently, new molecular targets have been identified and MTK has been proposed for repurposing in other therapeutic applications, with several ongoing clinical trials. The proposed applications include neuroinflammation control, which could be explored in some neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases (AD and PD). However, this drug has been associated with an increasing number of reported neuropsychiatric adverse drug reactions. Besides, and despite being on the market since 1998, MTK metabolism is still poorly understood and the mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric ADRs remain unknown. We review the role of MTK as modulator of leukotriene pathways and systematize the knowledge about MTK metabolism. Known toxic effects of MTK are discussed, and repurposing applications are presented comprehensively, with a focus on AD and PD.
High Levels of Outpatient Antibiotic Prescription at a District Hospital in Ghana (2021): Results of a Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Amponsah Obed Kwabena Offe , Nagaraja Sharath Burugina , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame , Nair Divya , Muradyan Karlos , Asense Phanuel Seli , Wusu-Ansah Osei Kwaku , Terry Robert Fraser , Khogali Mohammed , Buabeng Kwame Ohene
Published: July 2022

Background: Monitoring of antibiotic prescription practices in hospitals is essential to assess and facilitate appropriate use. This is relevant to halt the progression of antimicrobial resistance. Methods: Assessment of antibiotic prescribing patterns and completeness of antibiotic prescriptions among out-patients in 2021 was conducted at the University Hospital of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in the Ashanti region of Ghana. We reviewed electronic medical records (EMR) of 49,660 patients who had 110,280 encounters in the year. Results: The patient encounters yielded 350,149 prescriptions. Every month, 33-36% of patient encounters resulted in antibiotic prescription, higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended optimum of 27%. Almost half of the antibiotics prescribed belonged to WHO’s Watch group. Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (50%), azithromycin (29%), ciprofloxacin (28%), metronidazole (21%), and cefuroxime (20%) were the most prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotic prescribing parameters (indication, name of drug, duration, dose, route and frequency) were documented in almost all prescriptions. Conclusions: Extending antimicrobial stewardship to the out-patient settings by developing standard treatment guidelines, an out-patient specific drug formulary and antibiograms can promote rational antibiotic use at the hospital. The EMR system of the hospital is a valuable tool for monitoring prescriptions that can be leveraged for future audits.
Adaptive Forest Management under Climate Change: Some Adaption Criteria for Practical Purposes
Authors: D'Aprile Fabrizio
Published: July 2022

The compelling effects of climate change on forests may have been underestimated in the past few decades in practical forestry. Although the first attempts to draw attention to this complex problem appeared almost half a century ago, the debate has been conceptual rather than experimental and applicative. At first glance, the con-cerns were mainly related to sustainable forest management (SFM) issues, which obviously needed attention. Over time, the effects of climate change have been mainly considered in the context of the SFM; they started from various and somewhat different scales and goals. Over time, more research and awareness of the im-portance of SFM under the pressure of climate change have led to the development of a clearer field that can be defined as ‘adaptive forest management’ - to climate change. One of the characteristics of this discipline is to be featured by the absence of univocal methods and / or objectives to be pursued but to identify, verify, and adapt methods to the various climatic and forest types and conditions found in the field. Therefore, this work shows some phases of forest planning and management concepts and criteria over time and recalls some innovative and / or adaptive methods related to the approach to forest planning and management under climate change
Boosting the Immune Response – Combining the Local and Immune Therapy for Prostate Cancer Treatment
Authors: Karwacki Jakub , Kiełbik Aleksander , Szlasa Wojciech , Sauer Natalia , Kowalczyk Kamil , Krajewski Wojciech , Saczko Jolanta , Kulbacka Julita , Szydełko Tomasz , Małkiewicz Bartosz
Published: July 2022

Due to slow progression and susceptibility to radical forms of treatment low-grade PC is associ-ated with high overall survival (OS). With the clinical progression of PC the therapy is getting more complex. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) makes PC a difficult target for most immunotherapeutics. Its general immune resistance is established by i.e. immune evasion through Treg cells, synthesis of immunosuppressive mediators, and defective expression of surface neoantigens. The success of sipuleucel-T in clinical trials initiated several other clinical studies that specifically target the immune escape of the tumor and eliminate the immunosuppres-sive properties of TME. In the settings of PC treatment, this can be commonly achieved with radi-ation therapy (RT). Also, focal therapies usually applied for localized PC, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), or irreversible electroporation (IRE) were shown to boost anti-cancer response. Nevertheless, the present guide-lines restrict their application to localized and low-grade PC. This review explains how RT and focal therapies enhance the immune response. We also provide data supporting the combination of RT and focal treatments with immune therapies.
Adolescentes, juego online, uso problemático de internet y consumo de sustancias
Authors: Isorna Folgar Manuel , Feijoó Sanmartín Sandra , Mora Salgueiro Javier , Braña Tobio Teresa , Gómez Salgado Patricia , Rial Boubeta Antonio
Published: July 2022

Recientes investigaciones han alertado de la creciente participación de los menores en el juego online, una conducta ilegal con un enorme potencial adictivo. El presente estudio se planteó con un doble objetivo (1) disponer de datos actualizados sobre el juego online entre los adolescentes y, (2) analizar su relación con el consumo de sustancias y el Uso Problemático de Internet [UIP]. Para ello, se recogió una muestra de 3188 adolescentes españoles de entre 12 y 17 años (Media=14.44; DT=1.67), a los que se les aplicó un cuestionario ad hoc con ítems relativos al uso de Internet y consumo de sustancias, así como instrumentos de cribado específicos (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test -AUDIT-, Cannabis Abuse Screening Test -CAST-, Substance Use and Abuse subscale of the Problem Oriented Scree­ning Instrument for Teenagers -POSITuas- y la Escala de Uso Problemático de Internet para Adolescentes -EUPIa-). Los resultados mostraron que el 8.4% de la muestra había participado en juegos de azar en línea durante el año anterior. También se comprobó que los que jugaban a través de Internet presentaban tasas más elevadas de PIU y de diferentes comportamientos de riesgo online, así como tasas más elevadas de consumo de sustancias. Por tanto, no se trata de problemas aislados, por lo que es necesario emplear un enfoque preventivo integral para abordarlos.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Rodríguez Marín Jesús
Published: July 2022

Este trabajo pretende aclarar la diferencia entre los conceptos de promoción de la salud (PS) y de educación para la salud (ES). A veces, se usan esos términos indistintamente y otras se usan como conceptos diferentes. El objetivo de este trabajo es una descripción general teórica para intentar mejorar nuestra comprensión de estos términos. Planteamos y analizamos los cinco principios de la PS de la OMS organizados en tres áreas: (a) la protección de la salud, (b) educación para la salud, y (c) prevención de la mala salud. Analizamos la ES dentro de la PS y la PS misma ligada a la salud pública. Señalamos los temas principales de la promoción de la salud: estilos de vida y cambios ambientales, analizamos la función de la PS y la ES, consideramos los diferentes modelos de PS, y ámbitos de la PS en la comunidad. Finalmente señalamos los horizontes actuales de la PS y la ES, insistiendo en que la PS debería ceñirse a los principios de la Carta de Ottawa.
Useless work: David Graeber’s concept
Authors:   Altai State University, Popov Evgeniy A.
Published: July 2022

David Graeber (1961–2020) presented his concept of rethinking the role of work in hu­man life and society. In science, the concepts of work are polarized with the predomi­nance of socio-economic views. The relevance of the researcher’s approach is due to the fact that he offers a value-semantic interpretation of the civilizational development of work, taking into account the changes of man and societies. The article gives an assess­ment of his social theory of work. Graeber devoted many of his books and articles to this phenomenon of human individual and collective life activity, in which he considers work and professions as useless for society and the individual himself, because they act only as a set of actions subordinate to some social force. An analysis of his views reveals several important areas within Graeber’s conception: 1) rethinking the role of work in human life and societies is possible on the basis of changes not only of an economic nature, but also on the basis of stratificational and socio-political changes; 2) work symbolizes the pay­ment by humanity of ephemeral debts accumulated over the course of civilizational de­velopment; 3) the bureaucratization of work increases its uselessness and limits the social will of the individual in the exercise of work functions and professional competencies. These features can be considered fundamental in understanding the thinker’s theory, since through all his works there is a refrain about the need to rethink key social values (work, money, finance, taxes, resources and others), the nature of which is determined not only by economic relations, but also by value-semantic ones. Thus, it is concluded that Grae­ber’s contribution to modern knowledge consists in his proposed new coordinate system for revaluing the role of work and labor relations in human existence.
The “Open Letters” about Goodness for the World
Authors:   Penza State Agrarian University, Pugachev Oleg S. , Gorbunov Svyatoslav S. ,   Penza State Agrarian University
Published: July 2022

The article is a preface to the translation of two Strasbourg sermons on reverence for life de­livered by Albert Schweitzer in the midst of a difficult time, harsh both for himself and the world. Schweitzer’s return from Africa and internment, the Paris Peace Conference and the eve of the Versailles Treaty went along with fear of new means of destruction. In Feb­ruary 1919 sermons, Schweitzer tries to rehabilitate Christian morality, which has been reduced to nothingness. In response to Nietzsche’s “God is dead”, Dr. Schweitzer speaks of perception based on true reason and true heart, referring to the idea of a new whole Human­ity. The basis of the new ethics, the foundation of all morality, should be a mysterious and incomprehensible phenomenon of life and the noble feeling of reverence for it. When doctri­naire morality turns out to be helpless in the face of a real possibility that the mankind will be destructed by its own technical power, it is reverence for life that becomes the great and simple commandment, resisting the concept of a superman. Schweitzer’s ideas are in tune with the works of Russian philosophers (Vladimir Solovyov, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Nikolai Fyodorov), who urged to actively overcome death. In the second sermon, Schweitzer speaks of an ambivalent will to live, of temptations and deep contradictions of a moral conscious­ness that is forced to make a choice in favor of this or that life, of the need for active com­passion for all living beings. In the 1919 sermons, four years before the publication of Cul­ture and Ethics, Schweitzer focuses on the ethical issue, and the first two ones, delivered in February, embody his principle of reverence for life.
Cloudburst analysis in the Nainital district, Himalayan Region, 2021
Authors: Rawat Kishan Singh , Sahu Smruti Ranjan , Singh Sudhir Kumar , Mishra Anil Kumar
Published: July 2022

Some areas of Uttarakhand faced heavy rainfall during 17-19th October 2021. Mainly on 18th October, rainfall hits its all-time high. Due to this, a sudden heavy rainfall occurred, which had affected daily life of humans. More than 50 casualties were recorded during this study period. The main focus of this study was to monitor the Uttarakhand flood event using satellite observations. The Nainital and Almora districts of the state were mainly affected by this sudden heavy rainfall. On 18th October Nainital has received the maximum rainfall of about 21.51 mm at 11:00 am (UTC). The Nainital district has recorded cumulative rainfall of more than 300 mm on 18th October 2021. From the observation, we find out that this heavy rainfall occurred due to the sudden cloud burst at the Ramgarh of Nainital district. This sudden extreme rainfall further caused a flash flood in the study area. The rainfall pattern has moved towards Assam after it caused a flash flood in Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India.
Exploration and Identification of Potential Therapeutic Targets and Biomarkers for Docetaxel Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Pan Ke-Hao , Wan Lin-Li , Chen Ming
Published: July 2022

Background
Prostate cancer has become the third most common cancer, and the death rate of advanced patients due to metastasis and invasion is high. Approximately 40–50% of castration resistant prostate cancer responding to docetaxel did not show a substantial and sustained prostate specific antigen decline, and the median response duration was limited to 6 to 9 months. To understand the pathogenesis of docetaxel-resistant prostate cancer (DRPC), and to search for prognostic markers and new therapeutic targets.
Methods
RNA sequencing data of GSE36135 and GSE33455 from the Gene Expression Synthesis Database were used to search for co-expressed genes. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify independent prognostic factors, which were validated by expression and survival analyses. Subsequently, their ability to jointly predict patient prognosis was evaluated. Then, the lasso Cox regression model was established to evaluate the correlation of DEGs with immune score, ferroptosis, methylation, and OCLR score. And predicted for targeted small molecule drugs and validated the effect of small molecule drugs.
Results
EZH2 and SRC were identified as potential therapeutic targets and effective prognostic markers for docetaxel-resistant prostate cancer, and were found to be significantly associated with the immune score, ferroptosis, methylation, and OCLR score. Targeted small molecule drugs were predicted and validated for EZH2 and SRC.
Conclusions
This study helps to fully explain the mechanism of docetaxel-resistant prostate cancer formation and provides new immune-related therapeutic targets and biomarkers for it. Preliminary exploration of the effects of docetaxel in combination with urapidil or roxithromycin in prostate cancer cells
Meta-genomic analysis of Halobacillus trueperi S61 isolated from the Qarhan Salt Lake
Authors: Shen Shuo , Li Wei , Wang Jian , Xu Ruiting
Published: July 2022

Halophilic microbial as prospective resources of biotechnology due to the advantages of flexible survivability. Qarhan Salt Lake is the second largest Salt Lake in the world which contains rich-unique extremophiles and deserved in-depth exploration. Present study first time isolated novel strain Halobacillus trueperi S61 from Qarhan Salt Lake and performed whole-genome sequencing through combined third-generation PacBio and second-generation Illumina technology. The whole genome of Halobacillus trueperi S61 identified 57549 total reads and consists a complete circular chromosome of 4047887 bp with 43.86% GC content without gaps. Total number of 139 non-coding RNA (included 86 tRNA, 30 rRNA and 23 sRNA), 16 gene islands with 260275 bp and two prophages (with 82682 length) were predicted. In addition, the whole genome of Halobacillus trueperi S61 summarized basic annotation for 3982 protein-coding genes, 3980, 3667, 2998 and 2303 unigenes were annotated with Nr, Swissport, KOG and KEGG database. Combined with advanced analysis, 561 carbohydrate enzymes and 4416 pathogen host interactions related genes were identified. The protein function of Halobacillus trueperi S61 was mainly focus on biological processes, and the protein function was mainly distributed in gene transcription and amino acids, and carbohydrates metabolism. The complete whole genome sequence assembly and annotation of novel strain Halobacillus trueperi S61 isolated from Qarhan Salt Lake mainly focus on protein biological processes and antibiotic resistance, provides a potential resource for biotechnology.
A unique shape of scleral flap to increase surgical success rate in mitomycin C-augmented trabeculectomy: a 1-year study
Authors: Shih En-Jie , Chen Ying-Ying
Published: July 2022

Background: This study aims to introduce a modified method of trabeculectomy, and compare its effectiveness and safety to previous studies.Methods: Twenty-seven glaucoma patients (32 eyes) were admitted to Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital to receive mitomycin-C augmented trabeculectomy with unique shape of scleral flap. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP) control and antiglaucoma medication use. Secondary outcome measures included: surgical success rate, complications, postoperative glaucoma surgical interventions, and lens extraction during the 1-year follow-up after trabeculectomy.Results: The IOP decreased significantly from baseline (28.80 ± 11.37 mm Hg) to postoperative day 1, week 1, week 2, week 4, week 6, month 3, month 6, and year 1 (range, 14.10 ± 5.90 to 17.80 ± 5.14 mm Hg; all p < 0.05). The antiglaucoma medication use also decreased significantly from baseline (n = 4.72 ± 1.25) to 1 year after trabeculectomy (n = 0.75 ± 1.37) (p < 0.001). During the 1-year follow-up period, neither surgical failure nor the requirement for glaucoma reoperation were observed. Early complications and interventions included bleb encapsulation (n = 3, 9.38%), bleb leaks (n = 3, 9.38%), and needling revision (n = 1, 3.13%). Late complications and interventions included bleb encapsulation (n = 2, 6.45%), needling (n = 5, 16.13%), and cataract extraction (n = 2, 6.45%).Conclusions: Our trabeculectomy method with a modified shape of scleral flap over anteriorized trap door to serve as safety valve yielded a favorable success rate and low hypotony-associated complication rate.
Effective Intervention and Prevention Strategies for Elder Abuse: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Yan Elsie , To Louis , Wan Debby , Xie Xiaojing , Wong Frances , Shum David
Published: July 2022

Background: One in six community dwelling older adults experience abuse and neglect. Elder abuse has serious consequences for individuals, families, and society including mortality, physical and psychological morbidities, and increased care utilization. Given its detrimental consequences, timely and effective prevention and intervention of elder abuse should be our top priority. This study used a qualitative focus group approach to answer the following questions: What are the important elements for elder abuse prevention and intervention? What could be done to improve existing prevention and intervention efforts?Method: Thirty-two participants including social workers, medical social workers, and nurses from seven respective organizations participated in a series of focus groups to share their knowledge and insights. All focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Three researchers with background in social work and psychology coded the transcripts independently and arrived at a series of themes generated from the focus groups. Results: Drawing on the practice wisdom and experience of frontline helping professionals in Hong Kong, we highlighted key elements of effective elder abuse prevention and intervention, in the areas of 1) identification and assessment (avenues for case identification, worker awareness and readiness, organization culture and support, risk and case assessment); 2) essential skills and attitudes (respecting client autonomy and privacy, building rapport, active listening, refraining from rushing into the helping mode); 3) effective interventions (providing tangible support, strength-based approach and post-traumatic growth, support and self-help groups, addressing complicated family relations, supporting caregivers, follow-up support), 4) collaborative efforts (multidisciplinary and cross agency collaboration, effective use of community resources), and 5) raising elder abuse awareness (professional training, public education, addressing bystander effect).Conclusions: The findings of this study provide important reference to inform future prevention and intervention programs.
Risk factors of in-hospital death in pediatric patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: A case-control study
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Dai Lei , Li Deyuan
Published: July 2022

Background
Early mortality in patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) remains largely high. The aim of our study was to comprehensively analyze the risk factors for in-hospital death in HLH patients.
Methods
A retrospective case-control study was conducted at West China Second Hospital of Sichuan University from January 2014 to December 2020. All pediatric patients diagnosed with HLH who were hospitalized for more than 24 hours were considered for inclusion. Collect demographic, laboratory, clinical, genetic profile, treatment information, and outcome data from records. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the risk factors of in-hospital death.
Results
150 pediatric patients with HLH were enrolled in the study. The median age of patients was 54 months (IQR 25–107) and 94 (62.7%) were men. The median length of hospital stay was 17 days (IQR 8-27.5). The overall in-hospital mortality rate for the cohort was 8%. Multivariable regression analysis showed that hyperlactatemia (OR = 8.018, 95%CI 1.202–53.471, p = 0.032) and CRRT (OR = 7.746, 95%CI 1.258–47.680, p = 0.027) were associated with higher risk of in-hospital mortality.
Conclusions
These data suggest that hyperlactatemia and CRRT use in pediatric patients with HLH were associated with increased in-hospital mortality.
Kinematic and Dynamic investigations of the variator with lever mechanisms
Authors: Abdiraimov Abdusamad Akmatovich
Published: July 2022

The article discusses the spatial lever mechanisms attached to the speed variator. The device of the mechanism is described that has the ability to change the transmission ratio in a wide range by converting rotary motion into translational motion and having the ability of reversibility. A kinematic investigation of mechanisms was carried out, where the tasks of direct and inverse kinematics were solved and the uniformity of the output shaft rotation has been proved, as well as the main kinematic characteristics of the links were determined. In the dynamic investigation of mechanisms was used the kinetostatic analysis, where the reactions in kinematic pairs and the ratio of the input and output moments on the mechanism depending on the transmission ratio were determined. Numerical analysis has confirmed the validity and correctness of the theoretical results.
Randomised Controlled Trial CompAring THE Clinical And CosT-Effectiveness Of VaRious Washout Policies Versus No Washout Policy In Preventing Catheter Associated Complications In Adults Living With Long-Term Catheters: study protocol for the CATHETER II study.
Authors: Abdel-fattah Mohamed , Johnson Diana , Constable Lynda , Thomas Ruth , Cotton Seonaidh , Tripathee Sheela , Cooper David , Boran Sue , Dimitropoulos Konstantinos , Evans Suzanne , Granitsiotis Paraskeve , Hashim Hashim , Kilonzo Mary , Larcombe James , Little Paul , MacLennan Sara , Murchie Peter , Myint Phyo Kyaw , N'Dow James , Norrie John , Omar Muhammad Imran , Paterson Catherine , Scotland Graham , Thiruchelvam Nikesh , MacLennan Graeme
Published: July 2022

• Background Various washout policies are widely used in adults living with long-term catheters (LTC). There is currently insufficient evidence on the benefits and potential harms of prophylactic LTC washout policies in prevention of blockages and other LTC-related adverse events, such as urinary tract infections. CATHETER II tests the hypothesis that weekly prophylactic LTC washouts (normal saline or citric acid) in addition to standard LTC care reduces the incidence of catheter blockage requiring intervention compared to standard LTC care only in adults living with LTC.• MethodsCATHETER II is a pragmatic three-arm open multi-centre superiority randomised controlled trial with an internal pilot, economic analysis, and embedded qualitative study. Eligible participants are adults aged ≥18 years, who have had a LTC in use for ≥28 days, have no plans to discontinue the use of the catheter, are able to undertake the catheter washouts, and complete trial documentation or have a carer able to help them. Participants are identified from General Practitioner practices, secondary / tertiary care, community healthcare, care homes and via public advertising strategies. Participants are randomised 1:1:1 to receive a weekly saline (0.9%) washout in addition to standard LTC care, a weekly citric acid (3.23%) washout in addition to standard LTC care or standard LTC care only. Participants and/or carers will receive training to administer the washouts. Patient-reported outcomes are collected at baseline and for 24 months post-randomisation. The primary clinical outcome is catheter blockage requiring intervention up to 24 months post-randomisation expressed per 1000 catheter days. Secondary outcomes include symptomatic catheter-associated urinary tract infection requiring antibiotics, catheter change, adverse events, NHS/ healthcare use, and impact on quality of life. • DiscussionThis study will guide treatment decision-making and clinical practice guidelines regarding the effectiveness of various prophylactic catheter washout policies in men and women living with LTC. This research has received ethical approval from Wales Research Ethics Committee 6 (19/WA/0015).• Trial registration ISRCTN (ISRCTN17116445). Registered prospectively on 06 November 2019, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN17116445
Non linear lamb waves for the detection of localized defects using the cumulative second and third harmonics: Experimental study
Authors: Taleb Sarah , Boubenider Fouad
Published: July 2022

Recent studies have proved the usability of the non linear S0 Lamb mode without satisfying the phase velocity matching criteria, and the possibility to extend its application to varying thickness plates. Based on that, this work proposes an experimental study of the inspection of macro scale localized defects with a size smaller than the used wavelength, via the second and third harmonics generation. Results were obtained on verifying their cumulative effect with varying the defect’s width and also on finding that the third harmonic is better suited for larger scale inspection using the non linear Lamb waves, and identifying the propagating modes in the plates using the wavelet transform.
Improving the readiness and clinical quality of antenatal care – findings from a quasi-experimental evaluation of a performance-based financing scheme in Burkina Faso
Authors: Appel Inke , Lohmann Julia , De Allegri Manuela , Koulidati Jean-Louis , Somda Serge , Robyn Jake , Badolo Hermann , Brenner Stephan
Published: July 2022

Background: While maternal mortality has declined globally, it remains highest in low-income countries. High-quality antenatal care (ANC) can control or decrease pregnancy-related complications for mothers and newborns. The implementation of performance-based financing (PBF) schemes in Sub-Saharan Africa to improve primary healthcare provision commonly includes mechanisms targeting ANC service quality. In this study, we examine changes in ANC provision produced by the introduction of a PBF scheme in rural Burkina Faso.Methods: This study followed a quasi-experimental design with two data collection points comparing effects on ANC service quality between primary health facilities across intervention and control districts based on difference-in-differences estimates. Outcome variables were defined using data on structural and process quality of care reflecting key clinical aspects of ANC provision (i.e. screening, prevention) for two different client groups (i.e. first ANC visits, follow-up visits).Results: We found a statistically significant increase of 10 percent-points in facilities’ readiness to provide ANC services. Although clinical care provided to different ANC client groups was generally low, especially with respect to preventive care measures, we failed to observe any substantial changes in the clinical provision of ANC care attributable to the PBF.Conclusion: The observed effect pattern seems largely to reflect the incentive structure implemented by the scheme, with a stronger focus on structural elements compared with clinical aspects of care. This might have limited the scheme’s overall potential to improve ANC provision at the client level after the observed three-year implementation period. To improve both facility readiness and health worker performance, stronger incentives might be needed to increase adherence to technical standards and technical patient care outcomes.
Risperidone for the Treatment of Retentive Fecal Incontinence in Children and Adolescents: A Randomize Clinical Trial
Authors: Zahed Ghazal , Fatahi Somaye , Tabatabaee Leila , Prabahar Kousalya , Hosseini Amirhossein
Published: July 2022

Background: Functional retentive overflow incontinence (Retentive FI) is the most common cause of fecal soiling in children. Based on the clinical experiences, patients with retentive FI and comorbid psychiatric disorders, were accelerated in their treatment of fecal incontinence when they were being treated with Risperidone for their psychiatric comorbidities, therefore this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Risperidone in the treatment of Retentive FI in children and adolescents. Method: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 170 patients aged 4-16 years eligible for the study were randomly divided into two groups receiving Risperidone (n=70) and placebo (n=70). About half of these patients had newly diagnosed psychiatric disorders and were drug naïve, this was considered in their division. Participants received a daily dose of 0.25-0.5 mg every 12 hours of Risperidone syrup (intervention group) or maltodextrin (placebo group) for 12 weeks. Sociodemographic data including age, sex, weight, height, BMI and BMI z-score (equivalent BMI-for-age percentile), and socioeconomic status were recorded. nocturnal fecal incontinence, diurnal fecal incontinence and painful defecations information was collected from subjects. Results: 136 participants (69 on Risperidone and 67 on placebo) completed the intervention. Mean age of participant in the intervention and placebo groups were 7.2±2.4 years and 8.0±3.1 y, respectively. The mean number of nocturnal fecal incontinence (Ptrend=0.39), diurnal fecal incontinence (Ptrend=0.48) and painful defecations for participants with and without psychiatric comorbidities were not significantly different between the groups (P=0.49, P=0.47, respectively). While, a significant interaction was observed between time and psychiatric comorbidities (P <0.001) for diurnal fecal incontinence after treatment with Risperidone.Conclusion: Based on our findings in this study, Risperidone, used commonly for psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents, may be useful in the treatment of retentive fecal incontinence in the presence of psychiatric comorbidities, and along with other interventions.
Early intraocular pressure spike after phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation and goniosynechialysis in primary angle-closure glaucoma
Authors: Yu Lei , Li Yao-yao , zuo Jing-jing , Tang Yi-hua , Li Guo-xing , Zhang Shao-dan , Zhang Qi , Liang Yuan-bo
Published: July 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the characteristics and associated risk factors of early postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) spike in patients undergoing phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation and goniosynechialysis in primary angle-closure glaucoma.Design: Retrospective case series.Patients and Methods: Patients with consecutive primary angle-closure glaucoma patients without previous incisional glaucoma surgery who had undergone phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation and goniosynechialysis (PEI-GSL) by the same surgeon between January 2017 and November 2019 were reviewed to obtain the demographic information, number of antiglaucoma medications, preoperative IOP, pre-operative peripheral anterior synechiae (P-PAS), axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), mean deviation (MD), as well as pattern standard deviation (PSD) of the visual field (VF), Optic Vertica Cup-to-Disc ratio (C/D), intraoperative PAS remain (I-PAS), and postoperative outcomes. A postoperative early IOP spike was defined as an IOP of at least 21 mmHg at 2 h post-operation. The main outcome parameters were the frequency and distribution of postoperative IOP spikes and the risk factors associated with an IOP spike after PEI-GSL.Results: Of 100 eyes (100 patients) included in the study, 32% showed an early IOP spike (IOP spike group), while 68% showed no early IOP spike (no IOP spike group). Eleven patients (34.3%) from the IOP spike group showed an IOP value of ≥30 mmHg, and all underwent 2.82 times of aqueous humor release postoperatively. In the IOP spike group, twelve patients (37.5%) showed an IOP value of ≥21 mmHg at postoperative day (POD) 1, while three (9.4%) showed an IOP value of ≥21 mmHg at POD 7. The overall success rate was 89.74%, and the qualified success rate was 95.12% at the last follow-up (mean = 19.9 months, range 6–46 months). There was no significant difference in the frequency of IOP levels of ≥ 21 mmHg between the IOP spike group and the non-IOP spike group at the last visit (Fisher exact test, P = 1.000). Diagnosis of APACG or CPACG was associated with P-PAS, ACD, and PSD of VF but not with IOP spike (F = 4.003, P = 0.045).Conclusions: A significant percentage of PACG patients undergoing PEI-GSL had IOP spike at 2 h postoperatively. Side-port release of aqueous humor and use of antiglaucoma medications can effectively reduce IOP within one week after surgery. IOP spike was observed more frequently in patients with CPACG than in patients with APACG at 2 h postoperatively. Postoperative IOP spike did not affect the long-term success rate of IOP control.
The number of day 2 4-cell embryos is link with available blastocysts and live birth rate
Authors: Liu Shuang , Chen Shaowei , Wang Fang , Lan Yunzhu , Fu Li , Huang Guiying , Liu Yaofang , Liu Ling , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2022

Purpose: The aim of study is to assess the associations between the number of day 2 4-cell embryos (D2-4C) and the subsequent ability of available blastocysts and pregnancy outcomes in natural cycle IVF.. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study for couples with infertility treatment between October 2017 and December 2020. The number of D2-4C was recorded during the 948 blastocyst culture cycles in the study. Additionally, the number of D2-4C were analyzed with regard to their live birth rate during 685 double cleavage embryo transfer cycles and 145 single blastocyst transfer.Results: Our fndings showed the number of D2-4C was positively correlated with the number of available blastocysts (r = 0.752, p < 0.001), and have the highest prediction effect on available blastocysts, with an area under the curve (AUC) (95% CI) = 0.861 (0.826-0.896). Thus, the cut-off point was founded to be 4.5, especially in younger than 25 years old, AUC = 0.927. The live birth rate varied significantly according to D2-4C number, with the rate of 17.6%, 33.0% and 36.8% for zero 4-cell embryos, one 4-cell embryos and two 4-cell embryos groups, respectively (p < 0.01). Additional, with the percentage of 1.82%, 5.45% and 92.73% for zero 4-cells, one 4-cells and two 4-cells groups in twin cycle, respectively (p < 0.01). Double D2-4C groups and single blastocyst transfer groups achieved similar live birth rates (36.9% vs. 33.8%; p > 0.05), however the twin rate increased significantly in double D2 - 4C groups (33.0% vs. 2.0%; p < 0.01).Conclusion: The number of D2-4C was related to increase of available blastocysts and live birth rate, and two D2-4C increase twin rate in double cleavage embryo transfer cycles.
Adjuvantation of whole-killed Leishmania vaccine with anti-CD200 and anti-CD300a antibodies potentiates its efficacy and provides strong protection against virulent parasites
Authors: Singh Rajan , Anand Anshul , Mahapatra Baishakhi , Saini Shashi , Singh Abhishek , Singh Samer , Kumar Vinod , Das Pradeep , Singh Rakesh
Published: July 2022

The poor abilities of parasitic antigens to induce cell-mediated immunity is one of the major reasons for the limited success of vaccine candidates against all forms of leishmaniasis. Here we find, for the first time, that the adjuvantation of whole-killed Leishmania vaccine with anti-CD200 and anti-CD300a antibodies significantly enhances CD4+ T cells mediated immunity in vaccinated animals and provides strong protection against virulent parasites. The antibody adjuvantation, either alone or with a TLR4 agonist monophosphoryl A (MPL-A), significantly induced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines viz., IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-12, and IL-2 by antigen experienced CD4+ T cells, and also enhanced their rate of conversion into their memory phenotypes. The antibody adjuvantation also promoted the establishment of IgG2a-mediated protective humoral immunity against parasitic antigens. The vaccinated animals showed strong resilience against virulent L. donovani parasites as we observed reduced clinical features such as splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, granulomatous tissues in the liver, and significantly less parasitic load in their spleen. The findings of this study demonstrate that the anti-CD200 and anti-CD300a antibodies adjuvantation significantly increases the protective efficacy of the whole-killed Leishmania vaccine. This study opens up a new gateway to diversify the roles of immune inhibitory molecules in vaccine development against leishmaniasis.
Evaluation of sympathetic skin response for early diagnosis and follow-up in childhood type 1 diabetes mellitus with peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Jin Mei , Liu Jing , Liu Kang , Zhao Ziwei , Sun Suzhen
Published: July 2022

Background: The morbidity of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children is increasing and peripheral neuropathy is one of the common clinical complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of sympathetic skin response (SSR) and NCS for early diagnosis and follow-up of peripheral neuropathy in children with T1DM .Methods: Enrolling 85 children patients and 30 healthy controls, aged 14 years and younger, with clinically diagnosed T1DM from endocrinology wards between October 2017 to March 2020. Compared the characteristics of SSR and nerve conduction study (NCS) in T1DM patients, and analyzed the abnormality of SSR and NCS in different duration as well as the changes of SSR and NCS after therapy for 6 months.Results: The SSR latencies of T1DM group were prolonged and the conduction velocity were slower than the control group (P<0.05).There were no statistical differences between the abnormal rates of SSR and NCS, the abnormal rates of SSR combined with NCS were 76.5% (65/85) and were higher than those of single SSR or NCV test (P＜0.001).The abnormal rates of SSR and NCV in long duration of disease were higher than those in short duration of disease (P＜0.05). Among 65 children with diabetic neuropathy, the onset latencies of SSR were shortened and the NCS were improved after treatment (P<0.05).Conclusions: The combination of SSR and NCS were superior to the single SSR or NCS, therefore, SSR and NCS could provide the accurate early diagnosis and follow-up of pediatric diabetic neuropathy.
A national-level study on groundwater potentiality mapping using a hybrid machine learning models under the scenario of climate change
Authors: Sarkar Showmitra Kumar , Alshehri Fahad , . Shahfahad , Rahman Atiqur , Pradhan Biswajeet , mohamed ahmed
Published: July 2022

A severe threat to natural resources and human livelihood is groundwater scarcity. Therefore, mapping groundwater potentiality (GWP) is necessary for future resource management. In this article, a framework for conducting ensemble modeling is introduced. This framework will be used to map GWP at the national level under the climate change scenario. Thirteen elements linked to topography, geology, hydrology, and land cover, as well as six climatic indicators based on historical time series data, were used to map the GWP. To provide extremely reliable groundwater potentiality mapping, three traditional standalone machine learning techniques such as logistic model tree (LMT), logistic regression (LR), and artificial neural network (ANN) have been merged with a stacking ensemble framework. Using the empirical and binormal receiver operating characteristic curves, the GWP mapping has been validated (ROC curve). According to research, Bangladesh's major rivers run along the high GWP zones in the country's southern and central regions. Additionally, the validation using the ROC curve demonstrates that the stacking model which had all three MLAs—performed better than other models (AUC: 0.971). The study may have a substantial impact on Bangladesh's national water planning and policy, which will be made using evidence. Additionally, the suggested method might be applied to map GWP on a broader scale in additional nations as well as at the continental level.
Steering the Drug Release of Smart Magnetic Self-Assembled Nano Micelles in an Internal Thoracic Artery Flow for Breast Cancer Therapy
Authors: Sulttan Saad , Rohani Sohrab
Published: July 2022

Magnetic drug targeting (MDT) is one of the most modern techniques in cancer therapy for its ability to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy experienced by systemic administration. In this study, a comprehensive mathematical model has been developed to predict the drug particle trajectories of anticancer dasatinib magnetic nanomicelles (DAS-MNM) released in an internal thoracic artery (ITA) blood flow for breast cancer therapy. Several factors are investigated in regard to the efficiency of MDT through the ITA, including magnetic field strength (MFS), relative magnetic permeability, magnet size, drug particle size, and, initial position of drug particle. The drug particle trajectory results confirmed the successful MDT using an external magnetic field with a capture efficiency of more than 90%, through the accumulation of a wide range of particle sizes of DAS-MNM close to the external magnetic field source at the arterial wall than in other positions. Moreover, the results showed that the number of trapped particles increased with increasing both MFS and drug particle diameter within the target tissue, while the drug particle permeability does not have a considerable effect on the particle retention. In addition, for achieving a successful drug/cargo delivery through the arteries, the magnetic field, the particle size, and initial release locations should be adjusted simultaneously. The present work offers insights into the critical factors in MDT with a significant impact on breast cancer therapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Association of adherence to long-acting inhaler use for initial treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute exacerbation: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Suh Hee-Sook , Chang Min-Seok , Yu Iseul , Park Sunmin , Lee Ji-Ho , Lee Seok Jeong , Lee Won-Yeon , Yong Suk Joong , Kim Sang-Ha
Published: July 2022

Background
This study aimed to determine the effect of long-acting inhaler medication use adherence on acute exacerbations in treatment-naïve patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) from healthcare claim data.
Methods
Using the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database from July 2015 to December 2016, patients with COPD aged ≥ 40 who had started using long-acting inhalers were enrolled and observed for 6 months. Patients who were prescribed long-acting inhalers and had been hospitalized or visited emergency department (ED) for COPD 6 months before the first prescription were excluded. Medication adherence was indirectly measured by the medication possession ratio (MPR) based on the adherence (MPR ≥ 80%) and non-adherence (MPR < 80%) groups.
Results
A total of 3,959 patients were enrolled: 60.4% and 39.6% in the adherence and non-adherence groups, respectively. The risk factor analysis showed that the relative risk of acute exacerbation in the non-adherence group was 1.58 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25 − 1.99) in comparison to the adherence group. The logistic regression analysis after adjustment for patient-related variables demonstrated that the relative risk of acute exacerbation in the non-adherence group vs. the adherence group was 1.68 (95% CI 1.32 − 2.14) in terms of the number of inhalers used. Good adherence positively influenced the decreased rate in acute exacerbation for patients with COPD.
Conclusions
The risk of acute exacerbation of COPD requiring hospitalization or ED visit was low in the long-acting inhaler adherence group, suggesting that medication adherence imposes a reduction effect on acute exacerbation even in the initial management among treatment-naïve patients.