bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Preliminary Assessment of Neem Fruit Mucilage as Mucoadhesive Abetting Assets with Methpol-934P for Acyclovir Delivery from Mucoadhesive Microcapsules
Authors: Babu Gorantla Naresh , Muthukarupan Menaka , Ahad Hindustan Abdul , Sreedhar Veerabomma
Published: December 2022

In this study, we investigated the mucoadhesive properties of neem fruit mucilage by incorporating it into mucoadhesive microcapsules with Acyclovir (ACR). Methpol-934P and Neem fruit mucilage (NFM) was used to construct 12 different mucoadhesive microcapsules. We assessed FTIR and DSC capabilities for compatibility with ACR and NFM. ACR mucoadhesive microcapsules (ANMM) were characterized for mucoadhesion and ACR release Physico-chemical characteristics. CR was found to be compatible with NFM in the research. The entrapment increased as the levels of NFM in the formulations increased, and mucoadhesion time was longer in formulations with higher levels of NFM. As levels of NFM increase in formulations, the release of drugs is slightly reduced. NFM may be responsible for this due to its release retarding properties. An additive of neem fruit mucilage allowed for the retention of ACR after ingestion when a mucoadhesive polymer (methpol 934P) was used.
Efficacy of Local Infiltration of Analgesics via Intra-articular Epidural Catheter vs Adductor Canal Block in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty Surgery.
Authors: Sahu Santosh Kumar , Mishra Nihar Ranjan , Sahoo Sisir Kumar , Raulo Binod Chandra , Kar Dattatreya
Published: December 2022

Pain is believed to be a poorly understood phenomenon, which is mostly regulated by neural, cellular, hormonal & emotional components. Epidural analgesia is used for pain relief in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty, though provides good pain control, many a time is associated with side effects such as hypotension, urinary retention and impaired mobility. The purpose of the current study is to compare the efficacy of ACB to local infiltration of analgesics by Intraarticular Epidural Catheter for primary total knee arthroplasty by comparing visual analog scale, knee flexion, and active SLRT on the day of surgery (POD-0), POD1-3, day of discharge, and 4 weeks after surgery. This study is prospectively randomized, the cases undergoing primary knee replacement were divided into two groups, which includes a minimum of 36 cases in each group.Group-1(36) patients received local infiltration of analgesics via IAECand Group-2(36) patients received single shot ACB. As far as age, sex, BMI(kg/m2), pre-op VAS, mean pre-op flexion, mean pre-operative varus, mean preop KSS(Knee society score), duration of surgery and hospital stay is concerned no significant difference was noticed between the two groups.Group-1(LIA via IAEC) had significantly lower VAS on a postoperative day (POD) 1-3, lower tramadol consumption, better ROM (atPOD1-3), superior quadriceps recovery(active SLRT), earlier mobilization day, better KSS (at 4weeks) postoperatively, compared to Group-2(single shot ACB).LIAby IAEC for patients undergoing primary TKA is a better option compared to single shot ACB concerning to pain levels, narcotic usage, range of motion, quadriceps recovery and KSS (Knee society score).
Mechanism of Positive Inotropic Effect of Vincanine on Cardiac Muscle Contraction Activity
Authors: Zhumaev Inoyat Z. , Boboev Sadriddin N. , Usmanov Pulat B. , Qurbonova Shakhnoza B. , Rustamov Shavkat Yu. , Esimbetov Adilbay T. , Begdullaeva Gulnaz S. , A. Zaripov Abdisalim , M. Adizov Shahobiddin
Published: December 2022

In the present study, the dose-dependent effect of the alkaloid vincanine on the contractile activity of rat heart papillary muscle was investigated and it was found to increase the force of muscle contraction at all concentrations. The half-maximal inotropic effect concentration (ED50) of vincanine was 21.8 μM, respectively. Studies of the effect of this alkaloid on the cardiomyocyte Na+-channel in the presence of its blocker lidocaine showed that the positive inotropic effect of vincanine does not involve the Na+-channel. When studying the effect of vincanine on Сa2+L-channels in the presence of nifedipine (IC50=0.01 μM), the positive inotropic effect of vincanine (50 μM) alkaloid was partially reduced. In general, it was found that the positive inotropic effect of vincanine on the force of papillary muscle contraction is partially mediated by Сa2+L-channels and mainly Na+/Сa2+ exchange.
Optical coherence microscopy with a split-spectrum image reconstruction method for temporal-dynamics contrast-based imaging of intracellular motility
Authors: Kang Yong Guk , Canoy Raymart Jay E. , Jang Yongjun , Santos Ana Rita M. P. , Son Inwoo , Kim Beop-Min , Park Yongdoo
Published: December 2022

Biomedical researchers use optical coherence microscopy (OCM) for its high resolution in real-time label-free tomographic imaging. However, OCM lacks bioactivity-related functional contrast. We developed an OCM system that can measure changes in intracellular motility (indicating cellular process states) via pixel-wise calculations of intensity fluctuations from metabolic activity of intracellular components. To reduce image noise, the source spectrum is split into five using Gaussian windows with 50% of the full bandwidth. The technique verified that F-actin fiber inhibition by Y-27632 reduces intracellular motility. This finding could be used to search for other intracellular-motility-associated therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases.
Photonic sampled and quantized analog-to- digital converters on thin-film lithium niobate platform
Authors: Tu Donghe , Huang Xingrui , Yu Hang , Yin Yuxiang , Yu Zhiguo , Wei Zhongming , Li Zhiyong
Published: December 2022

In this paper, an on-chip photonic sampled and quantized analog-to-digital converter (ADC) on thin-film lithium niobate platform is experimentally demonstrated. Using two phase modulators as a sampler and a 5×5 multimode interference (MMI) coupler as a quantizer, a 1 GHz sinusoidal analog input signal was successfully converted to a digitized output with a 20 GSample/s sampling rate. To evaluate the system performance, the quantization curves together with the transfer function of the ADC were measured. The experimental effective number of bits (ENOB) was 3.17. The demonstrated device is capable of operating at a high frequency over 67 GHz, making it a promising solution for on-chip ultra-high speed analog-to-digital conversion.
InAs/GaAs quantum-dot lasers grown on on-axis Si (001) without dislocation filter layers
Authors: Wang Yongli , Ma Bojie , Li Jian , Liu Zhuoliang , Jiang Chen , Li Chuanchuan , Liu Hao , Zhang Yidong , Zhang Yang , Wang Qi , Xie Xinyu , Qiu Xiaolang , Ren Xiaomin , Wei Xin
Published: December 2022

InAs/GaAs quantum dot (QD) laser monolithically grown on silicon is one of the potential approaches to realizing silicon-based light sources. However, the mismatch between GaAs and Si generates a high density of threading dislocations (TDs) and antiphase boundaries (APBs), which trap carriers and adversely affect device performance. In this paper, we present a simple method to reduce the threading dislocation density (TDD) merely through GaAs buffer, eliminating the intricate dislocation filter layers (DFLs) as well as any intermediate buffer layers whose compositions are different from the target GaAs. An APB-free epitaxial 2.5 µm GaAs film was grown on exact Si (001) by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) with a TDD of 9.4 × 106 cm−2. InAs/GaAs QDs with a density of 5.2 × 1010 cm−2 were grown on this GaAs/Si (001) virtual substrate by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) system. The fabricated QD laser has achieved a single facet room temperature continuous-wave output power of 138 mW with a threshold current density of 397 A/cm2 and a lasing wavelength of 1306 nm. In this work, we propose a simplified method to fabricate high-power QD lasers, which is expected to promote the application of photonic integrated circuits.
Broadband electrically tunable linear polarization converter based on a graphene metasurface
Authors: Feng JinLong , Chen XiePeng , Wu Lin-Sheng , Mao Jun-Fa
Published: December 2022

In this study, a broadband tunable reflective graphene-based linear polarization converter (GLPC) is proposed based on the graphene-ionic liquid-ITO structure (GIIS) integrated with a periodic double split ring resonator (DSRR) in the millimeter-wave regime. The tuning characteristic of the designed GLPC is analyzed using full-wave simulations and the equivalent circuit model method (ECM), which is based on multi-section transmission lines. There is a good agreement between ECM and simulation results. A comprehensive physical mechanism for the proposed broadband GLPC is then achieved by analyzing the surface current distributions. After manufacturing, the GLPC prototype’s co- and cross-polarized reflection coefficients were measured using various bias voltages. The reflectivity can be controlled from −4.5 to −20 dB by changing the bias voltage in the range of +1.1 to −3.3 V. The designed GLPC can provide a tunable polarization conversion within the frequency range of 15.5∼35 GHz and shows a more than 75% conversion efficiency. The results of the simulation and the measurement are also in good agreement. The designed GLPC has potential applications in radar cross-section reduction, antenna design, and stealth technology by reconfiguring its polarized reflection characteristic dynamically.
3D modelling of cavity-free lasing in nitrogen plasma filaments
Authors: López Santiago , García Alicia , Rueda David , Oliva Eduardo
Published: December 2022

In this article we show results on cavity-free lasing in nitrogen filaments using our 3D, time-dependent Maxwell-Bloch code, Dagon. This code was previously used to model plasma-based soft X-ray lasers and it has been adapted to model lasing in nitrogen plasma filaments. In order to assess the predictive capabilities of the code, we have conducted several benchmarks against experimental and 1D modelling results. Afterwards, we study the amplification of an externally seeded UV beam in nitrogen plasma filaments. Our results show that the phase of the amplified beam carries information about the temporal dynamics of amplification and collisional processes inside the plasma, along with information about the spatial structure of the amplified beam and the active region of the filament. We thus conclude that measuring the phase of an UV probe beam, in combination with 3D Maxwell-Bloch modelling, might be an excellent method for diagnosing electron density value and gradients, mean ionization, density of N2+ ions and the magnitude of collisional processes inside these filaments.
Automatic land-sea classification in a nearshore environment using satellite-based photon-counting LiDAR data
Authors: Zhang Guoping , Xing Shuai , Xu Qing , Guo Songtao , Gao Ming , Chen Li , Wang Dandi
Published: December 2022

The Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) can measure the global surface with unprecedented resolution. Accurate classification of land and sea data is the prerequisite for generating high-quality data products. Current land-sea classification methods rely on assisted data or manual participation, and the automation degree cannot meet the needs of massive data processing. Therefore, using the land-sea difference of photon-counting LiDAR data, an index called normalized photon rate-elevation ratio (NPRER) is designed. Inspired by this, an automatic land-sea classification method is proposed, and the results are obtained through preliminary classification, reclassification, and post-processing enhancement. The results in Cook Inlet, Alaska, show that NPRER can measure the probability of sea appearance in the nearshore environment. At the same time, the automatic classification method can achieve an overall accuracy of 97.98%. The changes in the coastal type, data collection time, and classification feature sets have little influence on this method. Therefore, the method provides a reliable technical scheme for improving the automation of land-sea classification of satellite-based photon-counting LiDAR data.
Validation of open-path dual-comb spectroscopy against an O2 background
Authors: Malarich Nathan A. , Washburn Brian R. , Cossel Kevin C. , Mead Griffin J. , Giorgetta Fabrizio R. , Herman Daniel I. , Newbury Nathan R. , Coddington Ian
Published: December 2022

Dual-comb spectroscopy measures greenhouse gas concentrations over kilometers of open air with high precision. However, the accuracy of these outdoor spectra is challenging to disentangle from the absorption model and the fluctuating, heterogenous concentrations over these paths. Relative to greenhouse gases, O2 concentrations are well-known and evenly mixed throughout the atmosphere. Assuming a constant O2 background, we can use O2 concentration measurements to evaluate the consistency of open-path dual-comb spectroscopy with laboratory-derived absorption models. To this end, we construct a dual-comb spectrometer spanning 1240 nm to 1700nm, which measures O2 absorption features in addition to CO2 and CH4. O2 concentration measurements across a 560 m round-trip outdoor path reach 0.1% precision in 10 minutes. Over seven days of shifting meteorology and spectrometer conditions, the measured O2 has -0.07% mean bias, and 90% of the measurements are within 0.4% of the expected hemisphere-average concentration. The excursions of up to 0.4% seem to track outdoor temperature and humidity, suggesting that accuracy may be limited by the O2 absorption model or by water interference. This simultaneous O2, CO2, and CH4 spectrometer will be useful for measuring accurate CO2 mole fractions over vertical or many-kilometer open-air paths, where the air density varies.
Spectrally combined four-diode-pumped femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser with 16.3 nJ pulse and its application to video-rate coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering spectro-microscopy
Authors: Song Dong Hoon , Huh Chul , Seo Hong-Seok
Published: December 2022

We demonstrate the generation of high-energy femtosecond pulses by a spectrally combined four-diode-pumped Ti:sapphire laser with semi-conductor saturable absorber mirror mode locking. To achieve energy scaling, the laser cavity was extended using a design based on the Herriott multipass cell. The laser operates at a 17.5 MHz repetition rate and generates pulses with energies as high as 16.3 nJ and 80 fs in duration. The signal-to-noise ratio at the fundamental frequency showed an extinction ratio of >50 dB relative to the carrier. This compact single laser was applied to video-rate forward and backward coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering spectro-microscopy with a pixel dwell time of 122 ns, which is the lowest dwell time ever achieved, to the best of our knowledge.
Structure-function relationships of cholesterol mobilization from the endo-lysosome compartment of NPC1-deficient human cells by β-CD polyrotaxanes
Authors: Samaddar Shayak , Bose Debosreeta , Loren Bradley P. , Skulsky Joseph L. , Ilnytska Olga , Struzik Zachary J. , Storch Judith , Thompson David H.
Published: December 2022

Niemann-Pick Type C is a rare metabolic disorder characterized by the cellular accumulation of cholesterol within endosomal and lysosomal compartments. 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) containing polyrotaxanes represent an attractive approach for treating this disease due to their ability to circulate in the blood stream for longer periods of time as a prodrug form of HP-β-CD. Once inside the cell, the macromolecular structure is thought to break down into the Pluronic precursor and the active cyclodextrin agent that promotes cholesterol mobilization from the aberrant accumulations within NPC-deficient cells. We now report that both cholesterol and decaarginine (R10) endcapped polyrotaxanes are able to remove cholesterol from NPC1 patient fibroblasts. R10 endcapped materials enter these cells and are localized within endosomes after 16 h. The cholesterol mobilization from endo-lysosomal compartments of NPC1 cells by the polyrotaxanes was directly related to their extent of endcapping and their threading efficiency. Incorporation of 4-sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) significantly improved cholesterol mobilization due to the improved solubility of the compounds. Additionally, in our efforts to scale-up the synthesis for preclinical studies, we prepared a library of polyrotaxanes using a solid phase synthesis method. These compounds also led to significant cholesterol mobilization from the cells, however, cytotoxicity studies showed that they were substantially more toxic than those prepared by the solvent-assisted method, thus limiting the therapeutic utility of agents prepared by this expedited method. Our findings demonstrate that complete endcapping of the polyrotaxanes and improved solubility are important design features for delivering high copy numbers of therapeutic β-CD to promote enhanced sterol clearance in human NPC1-deficient cells.
Feasibility of a novel ultra-low-cost bubble CPAP (bCPAP) System for neonatal respiratory support at Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania
Authors: Tayler Ashtyn , Ashworth Henry , Bou Saba Ghassan , Wadhwa Hena , Dundek Michelle , Ng Ellie , Opondo Kennedy , Mkony Martha , Moshiro Robert , Burke Thomas
Published: December 2022

Objective

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is recommended in the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome of premature newborns, however there are significant barriers to its implementation in low-resource settings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of use and integration of Vayu bCPAP Systems into the newborn unit at Muhimbili National Hospital in Tanzania.

Study design

A prospective qualitative study was conducted from April 6 to October 6 2021. Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients treated with Vayu bCPAP Systems were collected and analyzed. Healthcare workers were interviewed until thematic saturation. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using a framework analysis.

Results

370 patients were treated with Vayu bCPAP Systems during the study period. Mean birth weight was 1522 g (500–3800), mean duration of bCPAP treatment was 7.2 days (<1–39 d), and survival to wean was 81.4%. Twenty-four healthcare workers were interviewed and perceived Vayu bCPAP Systems as having become essential for treating neonatal respiratory distress at MNH. Key reasons were that Vayu bCPAP Systems improve patient outcomes, are easy to use, and more patients are now able to receive quality care. Barriers to integration included durability of oxygen tubing material and training.

Conclusions

It was feasible to implement and integrate Vayu bCPAP Systems into the care of neonates at Muhimbili National Hospital.
Evaluation of the efficacy of Lactobacillus-containing feminine hygiene products on vaginal microbiome and genitourinary symptoms in pre- and postmenopausal women: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yoshikata Remi , Yamaguchi Michiko , Mase Yuri , Tatsuyuki Ayano , Myint Khin Zay Yar , Ohta Hiroaki
Published: December 2022

As estrogen level decreases with aging, the vaginal mucosa gets thinner, and collagen amount decreases. In addition, the population ofLactobacillusin the vagina declines, increasing the risk of atrophic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and genitourinary symptoms in the postmenopausal women. In this study, we evaluated the effects ofLactobacillus-containing feminine hygiene products on vaginal microbiome and genitourinary symptoms in pre- and postmenopausal women. This was a pilot randomized controlled trial in 35 premenopausal and 35 postmenopausal healthy women. For 4 weeks, treatment 1 group (14 premenopausal and 16 postmenopausal women) used the Lactobacillus-containing feminine soap and cream, and treatment 2 group (15 premenopausal and 14 postmenopausal women) used Lactobacillus-containing feminine gel in addition to soap and cream. The remaining 6 premenopausal and 5 postmenopausal women served as controls without using any products. We then compared the changes in the vaginal microbiota, genitourinary symptoms, and other related biomarkers after completion of treatment. Vaginal pH and pathogenic flora were reduced in both treatment groups compared to control group, which was more significant in the treatment 2 group of postmenopausal women. Genitourinary symptoms significantly improved in 60% of premenopausal women in treatment 1 group and 81.3% of postmenopausal women in treatment 2 group, compared to control group (0%, p = 0.043 and p<0.01 respectively). Overactive bladder symptom scores were significantly improved after using the products in eleven out of twelve postmenopausal women suspected of having overactive bladder. The use of Lactobacillus-containing feminine products was associated with improved vaginal ecosystem and urogenital health compared to control group, especially in those women using feminine gel.
Shared genetic architecture of hernias: A genome-wide association study with multivariable meta-analysis of multiple hernia phenotypes
Authors: Ahmed Waheed Ul-Rahman , Patel Manal I. A. , Ng Michael , McVeigh James , Zondervan Krina , Wiberg Akira , Furniss Dominic
Published: December 2022

Abdominal hernias are common and characterised by the abnormal protrusion of a viscus through the wall of the abdominal cavity. The global incidence is 18.5 million annually and there are limited non-surgical treatments. To improve understanding of common hernia aetiopathology, we performed a six-stage genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 62,637 UK Biobank participants with either single or multiple hernia phenotypes including inguinal, femoral, umbilical and hiatus hernia. Additionally, we performed multivariable meta-analysis with metaUSAT, to allow integration of summary data across traits to generate combined effect estimates. On individual hernia analysis, we identified 3404 variants across 38 genome-wide significant (p < 5×10−8) loci of which 11 are previously unreported. Robust evidence for five shared susceptibility loci was discovered: ZC3H11B, EFEMP1, MHC region, WT1 and CALD1. Combined hernia phenotype analyses with additional multivariable meta-analysis of summary statistics in metaUSAT revealed 28 independent (seven previously unreported) shared susceptibility loci. These clustered in functional categories related to connective tissue and elastic fibre homeostasis. Weighted genetic risk scores also correlated with disease severity suggesting a phenotypic-genotypic severity correlation, an important finding to inform future personalised therapeutic approaches to hernia.
The PROVENT-C19 registry: A study protocol for international multicenter SIAARTI registry on the use of prone positioning in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 ARDS
Authors: De Rosa Silvia , Sella Nicolò , Rezoagli Emanuele , Lorenzoni Giulia , Gregori Dario , Bellani Giacomo , Foti Giuseppe , Pettenuzzo Tommaso , Baratto Fabio , Fullin Giorgio , Papaccio Francesco , Peta Mario , Poole Daniele , Toffoletto Fabio , Maggiore Salvatore Maurizio , Navalesi Paolo ,   The SIAARTI Study Group
Published: December 2022

Background

The worldwide use of prone position (PP) for invasively ventilated patients with COVID-19 is progressively increasing from the first pandemic wave in everyday clinical practice. Among the suggested treatments for the management of ARDS patients, PP was recommended in the Surviving Sepsis Campaign COVID-19 guidelines as an adjuvant therapy for improving ventilation. In patients with severe classical ARDS, some authors reported that early application of prolonged PP sessions significantly decreases 28-day and 90-day mortality.

Methods and analysis

Since January 2021, the COVID19 Veneto ICU Network research group has developed and implemented nationally and internationally the “PROVENT-C19 Registry”, endorsed by the Italian Society of Anesthesia Analgesia Resuscitation and Intensive Care…’(SIAARTI). The PROVENT-C19 Registry wishes to describe 1. The real clinical practice on the use of PP in COVID-19 patients during the pandemic at a National and International level; and 2. Potential baseline and clinical characteristics that identify subpopulations of invasively ventilated patients with COVID-19 that may improve daily from PP therapy. This web-based registry will provide relevant information on how the database research tools may improve our daily clinical practice.

Conclusions

This multicenter, prospective registry is the first to identify and characterize the role of PP on clinical outcome in COVID-19 patients. In recent years, data emerging from large registries have been increasingly used to provide real-world evidence on the effectiveness, quality, and safety of a clinical intervention. Indeed observation-based registries could be effective tools aimed at identifying specific clusters of patients within a large study population with widely heterogeneous clinical characteristics.

Trial registration

The registry was registered (ClinicalTrial.Gov Trials Register NCT04905875) on May 28,2021.
A caveat to using wearable sensor data for COVID-19 detection: The role of behavioral change after receipt of test results
Authors: Cleary Jennifer L. , Fang Yu , Sen Srijan , Wu Zhenke
Published: December 2022

Background

Recent studies indicate that wearable sensors can capture subtle within-person changes caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection and play a role in detecting COVID-19 infections. However, in addition to direct effects of infection, wearable sensor data may capture changes in behavior after the receipt of COVID test results. At present, it remains unclear to what extent the observed discriminative performance of the wearable sensor data is affected by behavioral changes upon receipt of the test results.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of wearable sensor data in a sample of medical interns who had symptoms and received COVID-19 test results from March to December 2020, and calculated wearable sensor metrics incorporating changes in step, sleep, and resting heart rate for interns who tested positive (cases, n = 22) and negative (controls, n = 83) after symptom onset. All these interns had wearable sensor data available for > 50% of the days in pre- and post-symptom onset periods. We assessed discriminative accuracy of the metrics via area under the curve (AUC) and tested the impact of behavior changes after receiving test results by comparing AUCs of three models: all data, pre-test-result-only data, and post-test-result-only data.

Results

Wearable sensor metrics differentiated between symptomatic COVID-19 positive and negative individuals with good accuracy (AUC = 0.75). However, the discriminative capacity of the model with pre-test-result-only data substantially decreased (AUC from 0.75 to 0.63; change = -0.12, p = 0.013). The model with post-test-result-only data did not produce similar reductions in discriminative capacity.

Conclusions

Changes in wearable sensor data, especially physical activity and sleep, are robust indicators of COVID-19 infection, though they may be reflective of a person’s behavior change after receiving a positive test result as opposed to a physiological signature of the virus. Thus, wearable sensor data could facilitate the monitoring of COVID-19 prevalence, but not yet replace SARS-CoV-2 testing.
Association between ustekinumab therapy and changes in specific anti-microbial response, serum biomarkers, and microbiota composition in patients with IBD: A pilot study
Authors: Rob Filip , Schierova Dagmar , Stehlikova Zuzana , Kreisinger Jakub , Roubalova Radka , Coufal Stepan , Mihula Martin , Jackova Zuzana , Kverka Miloslav , Thon Tomas , Kostovcikova Klara , Bajer Lukas , Drastich Pavel , Hercogova Jana Tresnak , Novakova Michaela , Kolar Martin , Vasatko Martin , Lukas Milan , Tlaskalova-Hogenova Helena , Jiraskova Zakostelska Zuzana
Published: December 2022

Background

Ustekinumab, is a new therapy for patients with IBD, especially for patients suffering from Crohn’s disease (CD) who did not respond to anti-TNF treatment. To shed light on the longitudinal effect of ustekinumab on the immune system, we investigated the effect on skin and gut microbiota composition, specific immune response to commensals, and various serum biomarkers.

Methodology/Principal findings

We recruited 11 patients with IBD who were monitored over 40 weeks of ustekinumab therapy and 39 healthy controls (HC). We found differences in the concentrations of serum levels of osteoprotegerin, TGF-β1, IL-33, and serum IgM antibodies againstLactobacillus plantarumbetween patients with IBD and HC. The levels of these biomarkers did not change in response to ustekinumab treatment or with disease improvement during the 40 weeks of observation. Additionally, we identified differences in stool abundance of unculturedSubdoligranulum,Faecalibacterium, andBacteroidesbetween patients with IBD and HC.

Conclusion/Significance

In this preliminary study, we provide a unique overview of the longitudinal monitoring of fecal and skin microbial profiles as well as various serum biomarkers and humoral and cellular response to gut commensals in a small cohort of patients with IBD on ustekinumab therapy.
Bi-Directional Axial Transmission measurements applied in a clinical environment
Authors: Minonzio Jean-Gabriel , Ramiandrisoa Donatien , Schneider Johannes , Kohut Eva , Streichhahn Melanie , Stervbo Ulrik , Wirth Rainer , Westhoff Timm Henning , Raum Kay , Babel Nina
Published: December 2022

Accurate measurement of cortical bone parameters may improve fracture risk assessment and help clinicians on the best treatment strategy. Patients at risk of fracture are currently detected using the current X-Ray gold standard DXA (Dual XRay Absorptiometry). Different alternatives, such as 3D X-Rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging or Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) devices, have been proposed, the latter having advantages of being portable and sensitive to mechanical and geometrical properties. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the performance of a Bi-Directional Axial Transmission (BDAT) device used by trained operators in a clinical environment with older subjects. The device, positioned at one-third distal radius, provides two velocities: VFAS (first arriving signal) and VA0 (first anti-symmetrical guided mode). Moreover, two parameters are obtained from an inverse approach: Ct.Th (cortical thickness) and Ct.Po (cortical porosity), along with their ratio Ct.Po/Ct.Th. The areal bone mineral density (aBMD) was obtained using DXA at the femur and spine. One hundred and six patients (81 women, 25 men) from Marien Hospital and St. Anna Hospital (Herne, Germany) were included in this study. Age ranged from 41 to 95 years, while body mass index (BMI) ranged from 16 to 47 kg.m−2. Three groups were considered: 79 non-fractured patients (NF, 75±13years), 27 with non-traumatic fractures (F, 80±9years) including 14 patients with non-vertebral fractures (NVF, 84±7years). Weak to moderate significant Spearman correlations (Rranging from 0.23 to 0.53,p< 0.05) were found between ultrasound parameters and age, BMI. Using multivariate Partial Least Square discrimination analyses with Leave-One-Out Cross-Validation (PLS-LOOCV), we found the combination of VFAS and the ratio Ct.Po/Ct.Th to be predictive for all non traumatic fractures (F) with the odds ratio (OR) equals to 2.5 [1.6-3.4] and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) equal to 0.63 [0.62-0.65]. For the group NVF, combination of four parameters VA0. Ct.Th, Ct.Po and Ct.Po/Ct.Po, along with age provides a discrimination model with OR and AUC equals to 7.5 [6.0-9.1] and 0.75 [0.73-0.76]. When restricted to a smaller population (87 patients) common to both BDAT and DXA, BDAT ORs and AUCs are comparable or slightly higher to values obtained with DXA. The fracture risk assessment by BDAT method in older patients, in a clinical setting, suggests the benefit of the affordable and transportable device for the routine use.
Infrared and visible image fusion algorithm based on spatial domain and image features
Authors: Zhao Liangjun , Zhang Yun , Dong Linlu , Zheng Fengling
Published: December 2022

Multi-scale image decomposition is crucial for image fusion, extracting prominent feature textures from infrared and visible light images to obtain clear fused images with more textures. This paper proposes a fusion method of infrared and visible light images based on spatial domain and image features to obtain high-resolution and texture-rich images. First, an efficient hierarchical image clustering algorithm based on superpixel fast pixel clustering directly performs multi-scale decomposition of each source image in the spatial domain and obtains high-frequency, medium-frequency, and low-frequency layers to extract the maximum and minimum values of each source image combined images. Then, using the attribute parameters of each layer as fusion weights, high-definition fusion images are through adaptive feature fusion. Besides, the proposed algorithm performs multi-scale decomposition of the image in the spatial frequency domain to solve the information loss problem caused by the conversion process between the spatial frequency and frequency domains in the traditional extraction of image features in the frequency domain. Eight image quality indicators are compared with other fusion algorithms. Experimental results show that this method outperforms other comparative methods in both subjective and objective measures. Furthermore, the algorithm has high definition and rich textures.
The inside scoop: Comparative genomics of two intranuclear bacteria, “Candidatus Berkiella cookevillensis” and “Candidatus Berkiella aquae”
Authors: Kidane Destaalem T. , Mehari Yohannes T. , Rice Forest C. , Arivett Brock A. , Gunderson John H. , Farone Anthony L. , Farone Mary B.
Published: December 2022

“Candidatus Berkiella cookevillensis” (strain CC99) and “Candidatus Berkiella aquae” (strain HT99), belonging to the Coxiellaceae family, are gram-negative bacteria isolated from amoebae in biofilms present in human-constructed water systems. Both bacteria are obligately intracellular, requiring host cells for growth and replication. The intracellular bacteria-containing vacuoles of both bacteria closely associate with or enter the nuclei of their host cells. In this study, we analyzed the genome sequences of CC99 and HT99 to better understand their biology and intracellular lifestyles. The CC99 genome has a size of 2.9Mb (37.9% GC) and contains 2,651 protein-encoding genes (PEGs) while the HT99 genome has a size of 3.6Mb (39.4% GC) and contains 3,238 PEGs. Both bacteria encode high proportions of hypothetical proteins (CC99: 46.5%; HT99: 51.3%). The central metabolic pathways of both bacteria appear largely intact. Genes for enzymes involved in the glycolytic pathway, the non-oxidative branch of the phosphate pathway, the tricarboxylic acid pathway, and the respiratory chain were present. Both bacteria, however, are missing genes for the synthesis of several amino acids, suggesting reliance on their host for amino acids and intermediates. Genes for type I and type IV (dot/icm) secretion systems as well as type IV pili were identified in both bacteria. Moreover, both bacteria contain genes encoding large numbers of putative effector proteins, including several with eukaryotic-like domains such as, ankyrin repeats, tetratricopeptide repeats, and leucine-rich repeats, characteristic of other intracellular bacteria.
Measurement invariance of the strengths and difficulties questionnaire across socioeconomic status and ethnicity from ages 3 to 17 years: A population cohort study
Authors: Toseeb Umar , Oginni Olakunle , Rowe Richard , Patalay Praveetha
Published: December 2022

Mental health inequalities along ethnic and socioeconomic groupings are well documented. The extent to which these observed inequalities are genuine or reflect measurement differences is unclear. In the current study we sought to investigate this in a large population-based sample of children and adolescents in the United Kingdom. The main objective of the study was to establish whether the parent-report Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was invariant across ethnicity and socioeconomic status groupings at six time points from 3 to 17 years (maximum N = 17,274). First, we fitted a series of confirmatory factor analysis models to the data and confirmed that the five-factor structure (emotional problems; peer problems; conduct problems; hyperactivity/inattention; and prosocial behaviour) had acceptable fit at ages 5, 7, 11, and 14 years. Next, we tested configural, metric, and scalar invariance at these time points and demonstrated scalar invariance across household income, parent highest education, and ethnicity categories. The five-factor structure did not fit well at ages 3 and 17 years; therefore invariance was not tested at these ages. These findings suggest the parent-report SDQ can be used to measure socioeconomic and ethnic inequalities in mental health from ages 5–14 years but more consideration is required outside these ages.
Estimating the population exposed to a risk factor over a time window: A microsimulation modelling approach from the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates of the Work-related Burden of Disease and Injury
Authors: Náfrádi Bálint , Kiiver Hannah , Neupane Subas , Momen Natalie C. , Streicher Kai N. , Pega Frank
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Burden of disease estimation commonly requires estimates of the population exposed to a risk factor over a time window (yeart to yeart+n). We present a microsimulation modelling approach for producing such estimates and apply it to calculate the population exposed to long working hours for one country (Italy).

Methods

We developed a three-model approach: Model 1, a multilevel model, estimates exposure to the risk factor at the first year of the time window (yeart). Model 2, a regression model, estimates transition probabilities between exposure categories during the time window (yeart to yeart+n). Model 3, a microsimulation model, estimates the exposed population over the time window, using the Monte Carlo method. The microsimulation is carried out in three steps: (a) a representative synthetic population is initiated in the first year of the time window using prevalence estimates from Model 1, (b) the exposed population is simulated over the time window using the transition probabilities from Model 2; and (c) the population is censored for deaths during the time window.

Results

We estimated the population exposed to long working hours (i.e. 41–48, 49–54 and ≥55 hours/week) over a 10-year time window (2002–11) in Italy. We populated all three models with official data from Labour Force Surveys, United Nations population estimates and World Health Organization life tables. Estimates were produced of populations exposed over the time window, disaggregated by sex and 5-year age group.

Conclusions

Our modelling approach for estimating the population exposed to a risk factor over a time window is simple, versatile, and flexible. It however requires longitudinal exposure data and Model 3 (the microsimulation model) is stochastic. The approach can improve accuracy and transparency in exposure and burden of disease estimations. To improve the approach, a logical next step is changing Model 3 to a deterministic microsimulation method, such as modelling of microflows.
Tuberculosis and risk of cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Luczynski Pauline , Poulin Philip , Romanowski Kamila , Johnston James C.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Cancer is a major cause of death among people who experience tuberculosis (TB), but little is known about its timing and incidence following TB treatment. Our primary objectives were to estimate the pooled risk of all and site-specific malignancies in people with TB compared to the general population or suitable controls. Our secondary objective was to describe the pooled risk of cancer at different time points following TB diagnosis.

Methods

This study was prospectively registered (PROSPERO: CRD42021277819). We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Database for studies published between 1980 and 2021. We included original observational research articles that estimated cancer risk among people with TB compared to controls. Studies were excluded if they had a study population of fewer than 50 individuals; used cross-sectional, case series, or case report designs; and had a follow-up period of less than 12 months. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to obtain the pooled risk of cancer in the TB population.

Results

Of the 5,160 unique studies identified, data from 17 studies were included. When compared to controls, the pooled standardized incidence ratios (SIR) of all cancer (SIR 1.62, 95% CI 1.35–1.93, I2 = 97%) and lung cancer (SIR 3.20, 95% CI 2.21–4.63, I2 = 90%) was increased in the TB population. The pooled risk of all cancers and lung cancer was highest within the first year following TB diagnosis (SIR 4.70, 95% CI 1.80–12.27, I2 = 99%) but remained over five years of follow-up.

Conclusions

People with TB have an increased risk of both pulmonary and non-pulmonary cancers. Further research on cancer following TB diagnosis is needed to develop effective screening and early detection strategies. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for cancer in people with TB, particularly in the first year following TB diagnosis.
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections in Lao People’s Democratic Republic: The first national population-based cross-sectional survey
Authors: Miyano Shinsuke , Pathammavong Chansay , Ichimura Yasunori , Sugiyama Masaya , Phounphenghack Kongxay , Tengbriacheu Chankham , Khamphaphongphane Bouaphane , Nouanthong Phonethipsavanh , Franzel Lauren , Yang Tae Un , Raaijimakers Hendrikus , Ota Tomomi , Funato Masafumi , Komada Kenichi , Hachiya Masahiko
Published: December 2022

Population-based seroprevalence of chronic hepatitis B and C infections has not been examined in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of these infections in the general population of Lao PDR and perform subgroup analysis. A nationwide seroprevalence survey was conducted in Lao PDR in June 2019 using the multistage cluster sampling method. Dried blood spot samples were collected onto WhatmanTM 903 filter paper by finger prick. A chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay was used to measure the levels of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (HCV-Ab). Samples in which the HBsAg level was above 0.05 IU/ml and HCV-Ab was above the signal/cutoff ratio of 1.0 were considered positive based on comparisons with the relative light unit value of a calibration sample. A total of 1,927 samples (male: 47.3%, mean age: 23.0 years) were included in the analysis. The prevalence was estimated to be 4.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.7–6.3) for HBsAg and 1.6% (95% CI: 0.5–5.3) for HCV-Ab. Multivariable analysis revealed that those aged 20–24 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.3, 95% CI: 1.1–4.6), those aged 25–29 years (AOR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.3–5.6), those from the Northern region (AOR: 2.8, 95% CI: 1.2–6.6), and those who were Khmu (AOR: 3.6, 95% CI: 2.0–6.8) or Hmong (AOR: 5.0, 95% CI: 3.3–7.5) were significantly more likely to be positive for HBsAg. Although there were no statistically significant differences in the HCV-Ab prevalence according to each variable, males (2.9%, 95% CI: 0.7–10.7), those aged ≥40 years (6.1%, 95% CI: 2.1–16.8), and those from the Southern region (3.3%, 95% CI: 0.6–15.3) tended to have a higher prevalence. This novel population-based survey found differences in the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus infections in Lao PDR according to sex, age group, region, and ethnicity; however, the results of this study should be confirmed in future studies, and relevant responses tailored for each target also need to be determined to control the transmission of hepatitis B and C infections.
Dual effects of NV-CoV-2 biomimetic polymer: An antiviral regimen against COVID-19
Authors: Chakraborty Ashok , Diwan Anil , Chiniga Vijetha , Arora Vinod , Holkar Preetam , Thakur Yogesh , Tatake Jay , Barton Randall , Holkar Neelam , Pandey Rajesh , Pond Bethany
Published: December 2022

Remdesivir (RDV) is the only antiviral drug approved for COVID-19 therapy by the FDA. Another drug LAGEVRIO™ (molnupiravir) though has not been approved yet by FDA but has been authorized on December 23, 2021, for emergency use to treat adults with mild-to moderate COVID-19 symptoms and for whom alternative COVID-19 treatment options are not clinically appropriate. The fact is that the efficacy of RDV is, however, limited in vivo though it is highly promising in vitro against SARS-CoV-2 virus. In this paper we are focusing on the action mechanism of RDV and how it can be improved in vivo. The stability of RDV alone and on encapsulation with our platform technology based polymer NV-387 (NV-CoV-2), were compared in presence of plasma in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, a non-clinical pharmacology study of NV-CoV-2 (Polymer) and NV CoV-2 (Polymer encapsulated Remdesivir) in both NL-63 infected and uninfected rats was done. In addition, the antiviral activity of NV-CoV-2 and NV-CoV-2-R was compared with RDV in a cell culture study. The results are (i) NV-CoV-2 polymer encapsulation protects RDV from plasma-mediated catabolism in both in vitro and in vivo, studies; (ii) Body weight measurements of the normal (uninfected) rats after administration of the test materials (NV-CoV-2 and NV-CoV-2-R) showed no toxic effects. (iii) Body weight measurements and survival rates of the NL-63 infected rats were similar to the uninfected rats after treatment with NV-CoV-2 and NV-CoV-2-R. Overall, the efficacy as an antiviral regimens were found in this order as below; NV-CoV-2-R > NV-CoV-2 > RDV. Our platform technology based NV-387-encapsulated-RDV (NV-CoV-2-R) drug has a dual effect against different variants of the coronaviruses. First, NV-CoV-2 is an antiviral regimen. Secondly, RDV is protected from plasma-mediated degradation in transit. All together, NV-CoV-2-R is the safest and efficient regimen against COVID-19.