bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Did the built environment attenuate reductions in leisure walking during COVID-19? A quasi-panel study
Authors: Naseri Mahsa , Delbosc Alexa , Kamruzzaman Liton
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused decreased physical activity levels due to isolation, travel restrictions, and facility closure. This meant that walking remained the main option for individuals to sustain their physical well-being and mental health. This study examines changes in walking behaviour during the early years of the pandemic, and how such changes were affected by the built environment characteristics of Melbourne neighbourhoods over the period of lockdowns in 2020. By evaluating the impact of built environment characteristics on leisure walking patterns during the 2020 lockdowns, we provide insights into the interplay between the built environment and physical activity. We found that self-reported leisure walking decreased notably during the COVID-19 restrictions. The influence of the built environment on leisure walking remained consistent throughout the pandemic stages. Factors such as green space, residential density, and land-use diversity demonstrated associations with leisure walking. The presence of more green spaces was linked to higher rates of walking, while moderate residential density was associated with the highest walking rates. Surprisingly, more diverse locations showed lower levels of walking, potentially due to pandemic-related closures of non-essential businesses or limited access to green spaces in these areas. These findings emphasize the importance of considering built environment characteristics in promoting and maintaining physical activity levels, even during times of restricted movement.
Comparative associations of MASLD and MAFLD with the presence and severity of coronary artery calcification
Authors: Kang Min Kyu , Song Jeong , Loomba Rohit , Park Soo , Tak Won , Kweon Young , Lee Yu , Park Jung Gil
Published: March 2024

We aimed to compare the associations of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) with coronary artery calcification (CAC). Patients who simultaneously underwent ultrasonography to diagnose hepatic steatosis and cardiac computed tomography to detect CAC were included. The presence and severity of CAC were defined with CAC-score thresholds of > 0 and > 300, respectively, and patients were divided into the following groups: no MASLD or MAFLD (reference), MASLD-only, MAFLD-only, and overlapping groups. Overall, 1,060/2,773 (38.2%) patients had CAC, of which 196 (18.5%) had severe CAC. The MASLD and MAFLD prevalence rates were 32.6% and 45.2%, respectively, with an overlap of 30.7%. In an ASCVD risk score-adjusted model, both MASLD (adjusted odd ratios [aOR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.44; p = 0.033) and MAFLD (aOR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.01–1.42, p = 0.034) were associated with CAC, whereas only MASLD (aOR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.01–1.89, p = 0.041) was associated with severe CAC. Compared to the reference group, the overlapping group showed an association with CAC (aOR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.01–1.47; p = 0.038); however, the MASLD and MAFLD subgroups did not differ in their association with CAC. MASLD may predict a higher risk of ASCVD more effectively than MAFLD.
Auto-Decomposition of Ag+ -Citrate Complex Leads to the Formation of Uniform Ag Shell on Citrate-Capped Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Hu , Lin Mian , Li Huili , Xu Furong , Chen Chunbo , Yu Zhiqiang , Lee Bae Hoon
Published: March 2024

Bimetallic core-shell nanoparticles have emerged as a more economical and versatile platform that find applications in a wide range of fields such as biosensing, catalyst, and biomedicine. However, their synthesis by the popular seed-mediated growth method suffers from contamination by secondary seeds from heterogeneous nucleation and, thus, often requires combinational use of stabilizing agents and stringent kinetic control. Here, we report a seed-induced growth method for the synthesis of exclusively Au-Ag core-shell nanoparticles, where Ag+-citrate complex adsorbed on the surface of AuNP seeds automatically decomposed to form an ultrathin Ag shell. By studying the complexation process by dynamic light scattering and zeta potential, the shell formation kinetics by UV-visible spectroscopy, and the nanoparticle structure by transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, we identified that the Ag shell had a maximum thickness of around 3 nm, which was limited by the amount of adsorbed Ag+-citrate complex. Nonetheless, the obtained core-shell nanoparticles were highly uniform and free from secondary silver nanoparticle byproducts. Thus, this finding not only provides a simple and efficient avenue to but also offers novel insights for the synthesis of core-shell bimetallic nanoparticles.
Association between CACNA1C gene polymorphism rs1006737 and risk of Bipolar disorder: a meta-analysis
Authors: Cai Wenwen , Zhou Xia , Chen Yan , Gui Silan , Xu Yunshuai , Zhang Junqing , Cui Jian
Published: March 2024

The meta-analysis was to investigate the relationship between the calcium channel, voltage-dependent, L type, alpha 1C subunit (CACNA1C) gene polymorphism rs1006737 and risk of BP. The search was made in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases until December 2023. This meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 14.0 software. The CACNA1C gene polymorphism rs1006737 showed a significantly higher risk with BP for the allele model (A vs. G: OR = 1.311, 95%CI = 1.148–1.497, p<0.000), codominant 1 model (GA vs. GG: OR = 1.356, 95%CI = 1.136–1.618, p = 0.001), codominant 2 model (AA vs. GG: OR = 1.474, 95%CI = 1.202–1.806, p<0.000), dominant model (GA + AA vs. GG: OR = 1.403, 95%CI = 1.181–1.667, p<0.000), recessive model (AA vs. GG + GA: OR = 1.324, 95%CI = 1.092–1.605, p = 0.004), and over dominant model (GG + AA vs. GA: OR = 0.807, 95%Cl = 0.680–0.958, p = 0.016). However, results from subgroup analysis showed a significant relationship between the CACNA1C gene polymorphism rs1006737 and BP risk in allele (A vs. G: OR = 1.326, 95%CI = 1.163–1.511, p<0.000), codominant 1 model (GA vs. GG: OR = 1.343, 95%CI = 1.109–1.627, p = 0.003), codominant 2 model (AA vs. GG: OR = 1.548, 95%CI = 1.256–1.907, p<0.000), dominant model (GA + AA vs. GG: OR = 1.411, 95%CI = 1.180–1.689, p<0.000), recessive model (AA vs. GG + GA: OR = 1.378, 95%CI = 1.131–1.679, p = 0.001) in Caucasian, but not in Asian.This meta-analysis suggests that CACNA1C gene polymorphism rs1006737 is associated with a higher risk of BP in the overall population and Caucasian population, but not in Asian population.
Long-Term Neurological Outcomes of Offspring
Misdiagnosed with Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Snir Amir , Zamstein Omri , Wainstock Tamar , Sheiner Eyal
Published: March 2024

Objective
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a major determinant of adverse short- and long-term perinatal outcomes. The current definition of FGR (estimated fetal weight measurement < 10th percentile) may lead, at times, to a false diagnosis of fetuses that are eventually born appropriate for gestational age (AGA). Our objective was to investigate the potential association between a misdiagnosis of antepartum fetal growth restriction and long-term neurological outcomes in offspring.
Study design
A population-based cohort analysis was performed including deliveries between the years 1991–2022 in a tertiary medical center. We compared neurological hospitalization during childhood among AGA infants falsely diagnosed as FGR versus AGA infants without a false FGR diagnosis. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to assess cumulative morbidity and a Cox proportional hazards model was employed to control for confounders.
Results
During the study period, 324,620 AGA infants met the inclusion criteria; 3,249 of them were falsely classified as FGR. These offspring had higher rates of hospitalizations due to various neurological conditions, as compared to those without an FGR diagnosis (OR 1.431, 95% CI 1.278–1.608; P < 0.001). In addition, cumulative hospitalization incidence was elevated in the FGR group (log-rank P-value < 0.001). When controlling for confounders, a false FGR diagnosis remained independently associated with long-term neurological morbidities (adjusted HR, 95% CI 1.002–1.248, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Misdiagnosis of FGR in the antepartum period is associated with an increased risk for offspring long-term neurological morbidities.
Impact of in-hospital COVID-19 quarantine policy changes on quality of acute stroke care: A single center experience
Authors: Kim Minkyung , Lee Keon-Joo , Kim Seong-Eun , Kim Hokyu , Kim Han Jun , Han Jung Hoon , Oh Kyungmi , Park Sung-Jun , Kim Chi Kyung , Cho Young-Duck
Published: March 2024

Background and purpose
The COVID-19 pandemic is known to impact in-hospital processes for acute stroke patients, potentially resulting in delays due to quarantine and screening measures. The purpose of this study was to determine effects of changes in in-hospital quarantine policies on quality of care for acute stroke patients.
Methods
Hyperacute ischemic stroke patients who were admitted to Korea University Guro Hospital between January 2019 and February 2021 via the emergency department were included in this study. All had neurological symptoms within six hours before arrival. As a mandatory COVID-19 real-time PCR screening test was implemented in March 2020, changes in quality indicators according to the progress of COVID-19 pandemic and changes in in-hospital quarantine policy, including door-to-image time (DIT), door-to-referral time, door-to-needle time (DNT), door-to-puncture time (DPT), and functional outcomes (discharge and 3-month modified Rankin's scale) were determined.
Results
A total of 268 hyperacute stroke patients were analyzed. The number of hyperacute stroke patients gradually decreased as the pandemic progressed. Time indicators, including door-to-referral time, DIT, and DPT during the pandemic were increased. When pre- and post-COVID-19 screening epochs were compared, DIT, door-to-neurologist referral time, and DPT showed numerical increases. However, after accounting for potential confounders, a significant delay in DIT was found to be associated with the in-hospital COVID-19 quarantine policy.
Conclusions
Our study showed that enhancing in-hospital COVID-19 quarantine measures might increase the response time for hyperacute stroke care, suggesting an impact on the quality of care.
Trial registration:
Not applicable.
Impact of Human Resource Management Practices on Employee Engagement: Evidence From Ethiopian Higher Educational Institutions
Authors: Gede Dawit udessa
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of human resource management practices on employee engagement. Special emphasis was given to the establishment of a relationship between human resource management practices and employee engagement. The survey method was employed to collect data and the research was cross-sectional. Structural equation modeling was employed for data analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis were employed to test the hypothesis. Data was collected from 365 employees of three Ethiopian universities. The findings of the study show that human resource management practice has a significant effect on employee engagement. The result also reveals that in an institution where human resource management implementation practices are perceived as positive; employee engagement level is high. This research attempted to establish the effects of human resource management on employee engagement and determine the role of human resource management in enhancing employee engagement in public institutions. Therefore, organizations need to focus on human resource management practices to make employees committed and engaged in their jobs. The result gives insight to managers on the importance of effective human resource management practices to improve the level of employee engagement towards their jobs.
Remotely monitored physical activity from older people with cardiac devices associates with physical functioning
Authors: Taylor Joanne K , Peek Niels , Greenstein Adam S , Sammut-Powell Camilla , Martin Glen P , Ahmed Fozia Z
Published: March 2024

Introduction Accelerometer-derived physical activity (PA) from cardiac devices are available via remote monitoring platforms yet rarely reviewed in clinical practice. We aimed to investigate the association between PA and clinical measures of frailty and physical functioning.Methods The PATTErn study (A study of Physical Activity paTTerns and major health Events in older people with implantable cardiac devices) enrolled participants aged 60 + undergoing remote cardiac monitoring. Frailty was measured using the Fried criteria and gait speed (m/s), and physical functioning by NYHA class and SF-36 physical functioning score. Activity was reported as mean time active/day across 30-days prior to enrolment (30-day PA). Multivariable regression methods were utilised to estimate associations between PA and frailty/functioning (OR = odds ratio, β = beta coefficient, CI = confidence intervals).Results Data were available for 140 participants (median age 73, 70.7% male). Median 30-day PA across the analysis cohort was 134.9 mins/day (IQR 60.8–195.9). PA was not significantly associated with Fried frailty status on multivariate analysis, however was associated with gait speed (β = 0.04, 95% CI 0.01–0.07, p = 0.01) and measures of physical functioning (NYHA class: OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.57–0.92, p = 0.01, SF-36 physical functioning: β = 4.60, 95% CI 1.38–7.83, p = 0.005).Conclusions PA from cardiac devices was associated with physical functioning and gait speed. This highlights the importance of reviewing remote monitoring PA data to identify patients who could benefit from existing interventions. Further research should investigate how to embed this into clinical pathways.
A Rare Presentation of multiple endocrine neoplasia with Concurrent Aldosterone-Producing Adrenal Adenoma: a case report
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Zeng Kuanhong , Wang Lijuan , Cao Tingbin , Zhao Zhigang , He Hongbo , Xie Yangli , Yan Zhencheng , Li Li
Published: March 2024

Background
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is a disorder characterized by the occurrence of tumours in two or more endocrine glands of a patient. Coexistence of different endocrine tumors warrants additional screening for multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes, especially in patients with adrenal apparent adenoma.
Case presentation
We present the case of a 52-year-old male was admitted to Army Specialty Medical Center because of neck pain that had persisted for 4 months and aggravated muscle pain for 3 days. After admission, the patient showed hypertension and hypokalemia. The plasma aldosterone levels increased, and the renin levels decreased. Adrenal contrast-enhanced CT showed a nodule shadow on the left external branch of the adrenal gland, suggesting the possibility of adrenal adenoma. Other imaging examination suggested that the patient had thyroid nodules, parathyroid nodules, pituitary microadenomasm. The adrenal vein sampling (AVS) results indicated dominant secretion from the left adrenal gland. The patient was diagnosed as: 1. Primary aldosteronism-induced hypertension; 2. multiple endocrine neoplasia; 3. rhabdomyolysis; 4. hyperlipidemia; 5. fatty liver disease; 6. lumbar disc herniation; 7. fascia inflammation of the lower back. The Whole-exome sequencing of the peripheral blood from the patient showed the heterozygous variant of the genes CACNA1D and MYH8. The patient was performed left adrenal resection surgery in the Urology Department. Postoperative pathological specimen examination suggested a (left adrenal tumor) cortical adenoma. He achieved complete biochemical success and partial clinical success.
Conclusions
Our findings confirm the need for careful genetic analysis of patients with MEN1 and establish a likely pathogenic role for the new heterozygous variant of the genes CACNA1D and MYH8, at least in the rare subset of MEN1 associated with primary aldosteronism.
STK10 mutations block erythropoiesis in acquired pure red cell aplasia via impairing ribosome biogenesis
Authors: Yang Jichun , Shi Xiaofeng , Liu Xinyao , Qiao Xinrui , Zhou Xun , Li Hongmin , Du Yali , Chen Miao , Han Bing , Long Zhangbiao
Published: March 2024

Acquired pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is anemia associated with the absence of erythroblasts and is characterized by persistent and easy recurrence. However, the underlying mechanisms of acquired PRCA remain obscure, and the role of gene mutations in the pathogenesis of acquired PRCA has not yet been reported. In the present study, we detected thirty newly diagnosed patients with acquired PRCA using whole exome sequencing, and a critical role for STK10 in acquired PRCA was uncovered. The mRNA levels of STK10 in three patients with STK10 mutations were decreased. These three patients had a poor response to immunosuppressive therapy and two died in the follow-up period. Here we report that knockdown of STK10 inhibits erythroid differentiation and promotes apoptosis of K562 cells. We show that knockdown of STK10 resulted in inhibition of ribosome biogenesis and reduced ribosome levels in K562 cells. We also show that the p53 signaling pathway is activated by knockdown of STK10. Our results imply that ribosome biogenesis downregulation together with pathological p53 activation prevents normal erythropoiesis. Our study uncovers a new pathophysiological mechanism leading to acquired PRCA driven by STK10 mutations.
Stefan Blowing Impact and Chemically Response of Rivlin-Reiner Fluid through Moving Rotating Convected Disk
Authors: Gangadhar Kotha , Subbarao K. , S T. Sujana , Wakif Abderrahim
Published: March 2024

The present investigation of rotating disk system had high significance due to its many applications like that fluid thermal reactors, regulations in fluidics systems, and fluid stirring. Subject to upper functions of rotating disk, this consequences on Stefan blowing into the three-dimensional Reiner-Rivlin (R-R) fluid flow by the rotating disk affecting on the vertical direction. Thermal radiation and Cattaneo-Christov (CC) energy diffusions form was incubate into consider energy transport. This Chemical reaction is accommodated by concentration equation. These convective boundary conditions are considered by disk surfaces. The ensuing nonlinear systems are determining applying the shooting method. These obtained outcomes are visualized graphically with physical justification. The results display to Reiner–Rivlin parameters caused the downturn on radial and tangential velocities profile as well as temperatures field, both vertical movement of this disk or not movement along the noted variation in numerical values. The Curves on this temperature enhanced when the greater values of the radiations. Although this radiation fells in to this fluid surface, it enhanced the temperature on the liquid being hot particles strike the cool particles on fluid it enhanced the temperature of the liquid. This present model was calibrated into comparing the decreased model of the investigation to the previously presented article, and a close congruence was founded.
Improving on Admissible Estimators Under Entropy Loss Function
Authors: Jha Brijesh Kumar , Panda Akash Ashirbad , Biswas Mrinmay
Published: March 2024

Consider $k ~(\ge 2)$ independent populations $\Pi_1, \ldots,\Pi_k$, where each population $\Pi_i$ follows an exponential distribution with hazard rate ${\beta_i},$ ($i = 1,\ldots,k$). Let
$X_{i1},\ldots, X_{in}$ represent a random sample
of size $n$ drawn from the $i$th population $\Pi_i$, where
$i = 1,\ldots,k.$ For each $i = 1,\ldots,k$, consider
$X_i=\sum_{j=1}^nX_{ij}$. Based on a special case of Gupta's rule \cite{B6}, estimation of the hazard rate associated with the selected population is undertaken with respect to the entropy loss function. Several natural estimators of the hazard rate of the corresponding population are proposed. A natural estimator is proved to be minimax. Estimators improving upon the natural ones are obtained by using the method of differential inequalities. Additionally, simulations are performed to have a comparative study of the proposed estimators based on their risk values.\vspace{2mm}\noindent{\bf{Keywords:}} Hazard rate; Natural selection rule; Differential inequality; Entropy loss function; Brewster-Zidek technique.

\vspace{0.2cm}\noindent{\bf AMS subject classification (2020):} 62F07 ({\bf Primary}), 62F10, 62F15 ({\bf Secondary}).
A case study of applying wet top-feed vibro replacement stone columns as foundation support of fuel tank in the reclamation area
Authors: Jamsawang Pitthaya , Bergado Dennes T. , Voottipruex Panich , Baez Francisco , Jongpradist Pornkasem
Published: March 2024

This paper reports a case study of applying wet and top feed vibro replacement stone columns to support the 20-m-high fuel tank built on loose to medium sand deposits. The design considerations, installations, applications, field tests, correlations, and subsequent three-dimensional finite element analyses are presented. The soil profile of the case study comprised approximately 8 to 12 m thick loose to medium-dense silty sand layers with a high groundwater table. The 1-m-diameter stone columns were installed in a triangular pattern with a spacing of 2.1 m. The improvement depths were 8, 11, and 12 m. After construction was completed, quality assurance of the stone column installation by various field tests was performed. Based on the hydro test results, the improved ground could carry an allowable bearing capacity of 200 kPa transferred from the 20-m-high fuel tank and exhibited a maximum settlement of smaller than 50 mm, which met the design criteria of this project. Due to reasonable quality control during stone column installation, the tank’s tilt caused by the non-uniformity of the improved sands was negligible because it was lower than 10 mm. The enhanced strength ratio of the surrounding sands was 2 to 3 due to the desification effect. The simulated data confirmed the observed results, and the verification or confirmatory test results illustrated the successful applications of the vibro-replacement stone columns.
Failure mechanism investigation of tunnel face subjected to high hydraulic pressure
Authors: Zhang Junwei , Wang Junjie , Zeng Xutao , Chen Zhongwei
Published: March 2024

A huge amount of underwater ahead of tunnel face surges abruptly into the excavated cavern with respect to the high hydraulic pressure after the karst geology is penetrated. In order to avoid the construction accidents in tunneling, it is particularly important to investigate the failure mechanism of the tunnel face subjected to the high hydraulic pressure. To establish a water-surged model centered on the disturbed tunnel face, both the elastic-plastic stress and the high hydraulic pressure are considered simultaneously. Afterwards, a simplified analytical solution based on the Hoek-brown criterion is developed. An illustrative example is used to demonstrate the performance of the proposed solution. The simplified analytical solution derived in this study is validated by the numerical simulations. In addition, a series of numerical simulation are performed to investigate influencing factors of the disturbance zone range ahead of tunnel face. The results indicate the simplified analytical solution of the plastic zone ahead of tunnel face under the different supports can be applied for the stability of hydraulic tunnels, preliminarily estimate the failure zone ahead of tunnel face. The range of plastic zone ahead of tunnel face is greatly influenced by the tunneling radius, surrounding rock grade and the hydraulic pressure.
From Planning to Execution: The Advantage of Real-time Dynamic Navigation in the Extraction of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars
Authors: Xu Fangfang , Gong Yuxin , Sina Ahmadi , Wang Chunyan , Pouria Arian , Yu Ming , Tu Junbo , Na Sijia
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of applying Real-time Dynamic Navigation (RDN) in the extraction of deep horizontal mandibular impacted third molars, hypothesizing that RDN will reduce surgical time and minimize the risk of injury to adjacent anatomical structures.
Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 160 patients aged between 18 and 37 years old with deep horizontal impaction of the mandibular third molar. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (receiving RDN-assisted extractions) or the control group (undergoing traditional extraction methods). Preoperative planning utilized Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and Mimics software for accurate localization and segmentation of impacted teeth. Parametric data were analyzed using an independent t-test for intergroup comparisons, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The experimental group required an average of 11±1 minutes for preoperative planning using RDN, which was not a requirement for the control group. The setup of the navigation system took an average of 4±1 minutes in the experimental group and 0 minutes in the control group. The experimental group demonstrated a significantly shorter average surgical time of 22 ± 3 minutes compared to the control group's 36 ± 3 minutes. So, the differences preoperative design time, in surgical time, and complication rates between the two groups were statistically significant (p=0.005). Additionally, the RDN group reported no complications related to adjacent tooth damage or nerve injury, whereas the control group noted instances of adjacent tooth damage and lower lip discomfort, suggesting inferior alveolar nerve irritation.
Conclusion: Precise, Secure, R eal-time guidance that supports the application of RDN in complicated dental extractions and introduces a new era of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
On the logarithmic stability estimates of non-autonomous systems: applications to control systems
Authors: Jammazi Chaker , Bouameid Ghada , Boutayeb Mohamed
Published: March 2024

This paper concerns the polynomial-logarithmic stability and stabilization oftime-varying control systems. We present sufficient Lyapunov-like conditionsguaranteeing this polynomial-logarithmic stability with applications to several linearand nonlinear control systems.
Patients with Omicron variant infection can safely undergo elective orthopedic surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sun Yinsong , Dong Mingfei , Liao Junyi , Li Ke , Xu Wei , Chen Hong , Zhou Lu , Lei Yiting , Huang Wei
Published: March 2024

Background
COVID-19 is believed to be associated with significantly increased risks of morbidity and mortality. However, there are lack of reports on how infection with the COVID-19 Omicron variant affects the perioperative prognosis. Therefore, this study sought to find out perioperative differences in laboratory test results and complications between orthopedic surgery patients who were COVID-19 positive and negative at admission, to explore whether patients infected with the Omicron variant need to delay their orthopedic elective surgery.
Methods
A single-center cohort study of 54 orthopedic inpatients with COVID-19 Omicron variant infection were 1:1 matched to those who did not have a history of COVID-19, laboratory parameters including blood routine, inflammatory factors, coagulogram markers and postoperative complications were recorded and compared.
Results
Differences can not be found in the incidence of perioperative complications and mortality rates between the group infected with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant and the uninfected group, as well as no statistical differences in laboratory test indicators.
Conclusions
The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant does not appear to pose a huge threat to elective orthopedic surgery, patients with Omicron variant infection can safely undergo elective orthopedic surgery without delay.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Genotypic Features of Rotavirus and Norovirus in Jining City, 2021-2022
Authors: Wu Changjing , Fu Zhongyan , Xie Cuihua , Zhao Jian , He Feifei , Jiao Boyan , Jiao Baihai
Published: March 2024

Background Diarrhea, often caused by viruses like Rotavirus (RV) and Norovirus (NV), is a global health concern. This study focuses on RV and NV in Jining City from 2021 to 2022.Methods Between 2021 and 2022, a total of 1052 diarrhea samples were collected. Real-time PCR was used to detect RV-A, NV GI, and NV GII. For RV-A positive samples, VP7 and VP4 genes were sequenced for genotype analysis, followed by the construction of evolutionary trees. Likewise, for NV GII positive samples, VP1 and RdRp genes were sequenced for genotypic analysis, and evolutionary trees were subsequently constructed.Resuts : Between 2021 and 2022, Jining City showed varying detection ratios: RV-A (7.03%), NV GI (0.10%), NV GII (5.42%), and co-infection of RV-A and NV GII (1.14%). The highest RV-A ratios were shown in ≤ 1 year and 2–5-year age groups. Jinxiang County and Liangshan County had notably high RV-A ratios at 24.37% and 18.33% respectively. Qufu and Weishan had no RV-A positives. Weishan showed the highest NV GII ratios at 35.48%. Genotype analysis showed that, in 2021, G9P[8] and G2P[4] were dominant at 94.44% and 5.56% respectively. In 2022, G8P[8], G9P[8], and G1P[8] were prominent at 75.86%, 13.79%, and 10.34% respectively. In 2021, GII.3[P12], GII.4[P16], and GII.4[P31] constituted 71.43%, 14.29%, and 14.29% respectively. In 2022, GII.3[P12] and GII.4[P16] accounted for 55.00% and 45.00% respectively.Conclusions RV-A and NV showed varying patterns in different time frames, age groups, and regions. Genotypic shifts were also observed in prevalent RV-A and NV GII strains in Jining City from 2021 to 2022. Ongoing monitoring of RV-A and NV is recommended for effective prevention and control.
Shock index to predict outcomes in patients with trauma following traffic collisions: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Liao Te-Kai , Ho Chung-Han , Lin Ying-Jia , Cheng Li-Chin , Huang Hsuan-Yi
Published: March 2024

Purpose:Taiwan, which has a rate of high vehicle ownership, faces significant challenges in managing trauma caused by traffic collisions. In Taiwan, traffic collisions contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality, with a high incidence of severe bleeding trauma. The shock index (SI) and the modified shock index (MSI) have been proposed as early indicators of hemodynamic instability. In this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of SI and MSI in predicting adverse outcomes in patients with trauma following traffic collisions.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Chi Mei Hospital from January 2015 to December 2020. The comprehensive analysis included 662 patients, with data collected on vital signs and outcomes such as mortality, blood transfusion, emergent surgical intervention (ESI), transarterial embolization (TAE), and intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Optimal cutoff points for SI and MSI were identified by calculating the Youden index. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess outcomes, adjusting for demographic and injury severity variables.
Results:An SI threshold of 1.11 was associated with an increased risk of mortality, while an SI of 0.84 predicted the need for blood transfusion in the context of traffic collisions. Both SI and MSI demonstrated high predictive power for mortality and blood transfusion, with acceptable accuracy for TAE, ESI, and ICU admission. Logistic regression analyses confirmed the independence of SI and MSI as risk factors for adverse outcomes, thus, providing valuable insights into their clinical utility.
Conclusions:SI and MSI are valuable tools for predicting mortality and blood transfusion needs in patients with trauma due to traffic collisions. These findings advance the quality of care for patients with trauma during their transition from the emergency room to the ICU, facilitating prompt and reliable decision-making processes and improving the care of patients with trauma.
Correlations between spinopelvic parameters and health-related quality of life in degenerative lumbar scoliosis patients before and after surgery
Authors: Zhang Jiaqi , Liu Yinhao , Zeng Yan , Yuan Lei , Li Weishi
Published: March 2024

Background For degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) , prior studies mainly focused on the preoperative relationshipbetween spinopelvic parameters and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), lacking an exhaustive evaluation of the postoperative situation. Therefore, the postoperative parameters most closely bonded with clinical outcomes has not yet been well-defined in DLS patients. The objective of this study was to comprehensively assess the correlation between radiographic parameters and HRQoL before and after surgery, and to identified the most valuable spinopelvic parameters for postoperative curative effect.
Methods This study retrospectively reviewed 130 consecutive patients who underwent long-level fusion with at least 1 year follow-up. Standing whole-spine radiographs and HRQoL measurements were examined preoperatively and at final follow-up. Spinopelvic parameters included thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL), pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), T1 pelvic angle (TPA), Global tilt (GT), Cobb angle (CA), apical vertebral translation (AVT) and coronal vertical axis (CVA). HRQoL was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Chinese version of Lumbar Stiffness Disability Index (C-LSDI), Japanese Orthopedic Association-29 (JOA-29), Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22),and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) total and subscale scores. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to determine relationships between them.
Results The study population included 104 women and 26 men with an average age of 62.9 years. Both coronal and sagittal parameters showed significant correlations with HRQoL scores pre- and post-operatively. Among the coronal parameters, only CA showed correlations with SRS-22 subscale scores, and its correlation with Self-image scores were observed both before and after surgery. Among sagittal parameters, PT, PI-LL, LL, SVA, TPA, and GT showed significant correlations with HRQoL before surgery, including ODI, JOA-29, and SF-36 PCS. At final follow-up, except for AVT, CVA, and LL, all other sagittal parameters were significantly correlated with HRQoL.
Conclusions HRQoL scores not only correlated with radiological parameters before surgery, but also after long-term follow-up. Besides, sagittal parameters, especially postoperative PI-LL, SVA, TPA, GT, were more closely correlated with clinical outcome measurements.
Sliding mode preview control based consensus for nonlinearmulti-agent systems
Authors: Lan Yonghong , Zheng Shikang , Zheng Litao
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the design of sliding mode preview control (SMPC) based consensus for nonlinear multi-agent systems (MASs) is presented. First, a novel preview information-based equality constraint is introduced and an augmented error system is constructed for each follower agent. Next, a distributed SMPC strategy is proposed by designing integral-type sliding function. Thereafter, the preview control (PC) law design problem is transformed into the stability problem of the augmented system and a linear matrix inequality (LMI) based sufficient condition is given, which can guarantee the states of all agents achieving tracking consensus and ensure a guaranteed level of performance on sliding surface. A distributed adaptive sliding mode control (SMC) law is synthesized such that the sliding surface is reachable. Further, by employing the Lyapunov theory together with mathematical analysis, the gains of the controller can be obtained. Finally, two simulation examples demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the developed method.
Comparison of testing methods assessing the in vitro efficacy of the combination of aztreonam with avibactam on multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli
Authors: Deckers Corentin , Bélik Florian , Denis Olivier , Bogaerts Pierre , Montesinos Isabel , Berhin Catherine , Bouchahrouf Warda , Hoebeke Martin , Evrard Stéphanie , Gilliard Nicolas , Okur Merve , Huang Te-Din
Published: March 2024

Background Aztreonam-avibactam (ATM-AVI) combination shows promising effectiveness on most carbapenemase-producing Gram-negatives, yet standardized antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) methods for evaluating the combination in clinical laboratories is lacking. We aimed to evaluate different ATM-AVI AST approaches.Methods 96 characterized carbapenem-resistant clinical isolates belonging to 9 Enterobacterales (EB; n = 80) and P. aeruginosa (PA; n = 16) species, including 90 carbapenemase producers and 72 strains resistant to both CAZ-AVI and ATM, were tested. Paper disk elution (DE; Bio-Rad) and E-test gradient strips stacking (SS; bioMérieux) were performed for the ATM + CAZ-AVI combination. MIC Test Strip (MTS; Liofilchem) was evaluated for ATM-AVI MIC determination. Results were interpreted applying ATM clinical breakpoints of the EUCAST guidelines to assess the combinations and compared to the broth microdilution (BMD) method using Sensititre panels (Thermofisher).Results According to the reference BMD, 93% of EB and 69% of PA were tested susceptible to ATM-AVI. The synergistic effect of ATM-AVI was of 95% for EB, but of only 17% for PA. Higher categorical and essential agreement (CA / EA) rates were obtained with the MTS method for both EB (89% / 91%) and PA (94% / 94%) compared to those of SS (87% / 83% for EB; 81% / 81% for PA). MTS and SS yielded 2 and 3 major discrepancies (MD), respectively, while 3 very major discrepancies (VMD) each were observed for both methods. Concerning the DE method, CA reached 91%, for EB and 81% for PA, but high number of VMD were observed for EB (n = 6; 8%) and for PA (n = 3; 19%).Conclusions The ATM-AVI association displayed excellent in vitro activity against highly resistant clinical Enterobacterales strains. MTS method offers accurate ATM-AVI AST results, while the SS method might serve as better alternative then DE method in assessing the efficacy of ATM + CAZ-AVI combination. However, further investigation is needed to confirm the methods' ability to detect ATM-AVI resistance.
Developing a Mixed Matrix Membrane (MMM) based on Nanoclay modified with Chitosan for the elimination of Methylene Blue (MB) from aquatic area
Authors: Hajivar Zahra Badri , Rostami Elham , Kiasat Alireza
Published: March 2024

There is a serious health threat to humans, plants, and animals in developing countries due to water pollution. In order to achieve the best results, it is recommended that membranes be prepared with a long life, acceptable color removal efficiency, as well as anti-clogging properties. A polyethersulfone membrane solution was first prepared by adding montmerillonite clay nanoparticles (NPs) modified with chitosan to a polyethersulfone membrane solution at different weight percentages. An investigation was conducted into the effect of additive nanoparticles on mechanical properties, structural characteristics, and flux rejection and recovery of membranes. The water flux of this membrane is acceptable when compared to the polyethersulfone membrane due to its hydrophilicity, resistance, and Methylene Blue (MB) as cationic dye elimination (94%). The modified polyethersulfone membrane also performs better in terms of water flux recovery than the unmodified polyethersulfone membrane. This means that dye removal is enhanced by NPs.
ADPDB: A Comprehensive Knowledgebase of Manually Curated Peptides Against Dengue Virus
Authors: Mondal Rajat Kumar , Anand Ananya Anurag , Samanta Sintu Kumar
Published: March 2024

Recently, there have been estimates of 390 million dengue infections annually worldwide. Thus, Dengue viruses (DENV) continue to result in a severe burden on the human health all over the world. There are four different serotypes of DENV depending on antigenicity. Each can result in a life-threatening condition. For such a severe disease, present-day options of treatment are certainly limited and most patients rely on supportive care. Although there has been a dengue vaccine approved with modest efficacy, there is an urgent need for drugs that can reduce the complications that occur as a result of dengue. Some recent advances have been made in the development of drugs for combating dengue. These include some new vaccine candidates, invention of peptide-based drugs (antimicrobial peptides or AMPs), and repurposing of a few existing ones. Out of these, peptide-based drugs are recently under the limelight for their enhanced efficacy against the DENV and are being tested for their efficacy in preventing dengue in different parts of the world. In this context, we have developed a database that highlights the efforts made in the direction of peptide-based drugs against DENV. The database mentions the important features of all the anti-DENV peptides recorded up to date. These include source, target, mode of action, sequence, length, IC50, toxicity, etc. Our database also presents a holistic view of the overall situation of the peptide-based discovery for dengue. The database is accessible via any web browser at https://bblserver.org.in/adpdb/.
Seven-day antibiotic therapy for Enterobacterales bacteremia in high-risk neutropenic patients: Toward a new paradigm
Authors: Herrera Fabián , Torres Diego , Laborde Ana , Jordán Rosana , Tula Lucas , Mañez Noelia , Pereyra María Laura , Suchorwiercha Nadia , Berruezo Lorena , Gudiol Carlota , Ibáñez María Luz González , Eusebio María José , Lambert Sandra , Barcán Laura , Rossi Inés Roccia , Nicola Federico , Peninni Magdalena , Monge Renata , Blanco Miriam , Visús Mariángeles , Reynaldi Mariana , Carbone Ruth , Pasterán Fernando , Corso Alejandra
Published: March 2024

Purpose. Data on short courses of antibiotic therapy for Enterobacterales bacteremia in high-risk neutropenic patients are limited. The aim of the study was to describe and compare the frequency of bacteremia relapse, 30-day overall and infection-related mortality, Clostridiodes difficile infection and length of hospital stay since bacteremia among those who received antibiotic therapy for 7 or 14 days.
Methods. This is a multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study in adult high-risk neutropenic patients with hematologic malignancies or hematopoietic stem cell transplant and monomicrobial Enterobacterales bacteremia. They received appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy, had a clinical response within 7 days, and infection source control. Clinical, epidemiological and outcomes variables were compared based on 7 or 14 days of AT.
Results. Two hundred patients were included (100, 7-day antibiotic therapy; 100, 14-day antibiotic therapy). No differences were observed in baseline characteristics between both groups. Escherichia coli was the pathogen most frequently isolated (47.5%), followed by Klebsiella sp. (40.5%). Among those patients that received 7-day vs. 14-day antibiotic course, a clinical source of bacteremia was found in 54% vs. 57% (p=0.66), multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales isolates in 28% vs. 30% (p=0.75), and 40% vs. 47% (p=0.31) received combined empirical antibiotic therapy. Overall mortality was 3% vs. 1% (p=0.62), in no case related to infection; bacteremia relapse was 7% vs. 2% (p=0.17), and length of hospital stay since bacteremia had a median of 9 days (IQR: 7-15) vs. 14 days (IQR: 13-22) (p=<0.001).
Conclusions. These data suggest that seven-day antibiotic therapy might be adequate for patients with high-risk neutropenia and Enterobacterales bacteremia, who receive appropriate empirical therapy, with clinical response and infection source control.
DNAJC1 Facilitates Glioblastoma Progression by Promoting Extracellular Matrix Reorganization and Macrophage Infiltration
Authors: Zhang Han , Zheng Wenjing , Chen Xu , Sa Longqi , Huo Yi , Zhang Lingling , Shan Lequn , Wang Tao
Published: March 2024

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is a high-grade and heterogeneous subtype of glioma that presents a substantial challenge to human health, characterized by a poor prognosis and low survival rates. Despite its known involvement in regulating leukemia and melanoma, the function and mechanism of DNAJC1 in GBM remain poorly understood.
Methods: Utilizing data from the TCGA, CGGA, and GEO databases, we investigated the expression pattern of DNAJC1 and its correlation with clinical characteristics in GBM specimens. Loss-of-function experiments were conducted to explore the impact of DNAJC1 on GBM cell lines, with co-culture experiments assessing macrophage infiltration and functional marker expression.
Results: Our analysis demonstrated frequent overexpression of DNAJC1 in GBM, significantly associated with various clinical characteristics including WHO grade, IDH status, chromosome 1p/19q codeletion, and histological type. Moreover, Kaplan‒Meier and ROC analyses revealed DNAJC1 as a negative prognostic predictor and a promising diagnostic biomarker for GBM patients. Functional studies indicated that silencing DNAJC1 impeded cell proliferation and migration, induced cell cycle arrest, and enhanced apoptosis. Mechanistically, DNAJC1 was implicated in stimulating extracellular matrix reorganization, triggering the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and initiating immunosuppressive macrophage infiltration.
Conclusions: Our findings underscore the pivotal role of DNAJC1 in GBM pathogenesis, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for this challenging disease.
Hydrophilic Modification of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Capillary Membranes with Chemical Resistance by Constructing Three-dimensional Hydrophilic Networks
Authors: Hou Mingpeng , Li Qiuying , Che Yanchao
Published: March 2024

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) capillary membranes, known for the great chemical resistance and thermal stability, are commonly used in membrane separation technologies. However, the strong hydrophobic property of PTFE limits its application in water filtration. This study introduces a method that acrylamide (AM), N, N-methylene bisacrylamide (MBA), and vinyltriethoxysilane (VTES) undergo free radical copolymerization, followed by the hydrolysis-condensation of silane bonds, resulting in the formation of hydrophilic three-dimensional networks physically intertwined with the PTFE capillary membranes. The modified PTFE capillary membranes prepared through this method exhibit excellent hydrophilic properties, whose water contact angles are decreased by 24.3%-61.2%, and increasing pure water flux from 0 to 1732.7 L/m²·h-2666.0 L/m²·h. The enhancement in hydrophilicity of the modified PTFE capillary membranes is attributed to the introduction of hydrophilic groups such as amide bonds and siloxane bonds, along with an increase in surface roughness. Moreover, the modified PTFE capillary membranes exhibit chemical resistance, maintaining the hydrophilicity even after immersion in strong acidic (3wt% HCl), alkaline (3wt% NaOH), and oxidative (3wt% NaClO) solutions for 2 weeks. In conclusion, this promising method yields modified PTFE capillary membranes with great hydrophilicity and chemical resistance, presenting substantial potential for applications in the field of water filtration.