bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A retrospective analysis of risk factors for massive hemoptysis in patients with bronchiectasis
Authors: Luo Ling , Luo Jing , Jiang Yu
Published: June 2022

Background

Massive hemoptysis is a common and fatal complication of bronchiectasis. However, the risk factors for massive hemoptysis in patients with bronchiectasis have not yet been reported. This study investigated the potential risk factors for massive hemoptysis in patients with bronchiectasis.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with bronchiectasis and their data were obtained from medical records. The risk factors for massive hemoptysis were evaluated by multivariate analysis of patient characteristics, medical history, and computed tomography imaging data, including the number of lesions, lesion location, and laboratory findings.

Results

Among 379 patients, 61 (16.09%) experienced severe hemoptysis. Multivariate analysis revealed that diabetes (odds ratio (OR) 2.885; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.009–8.247), lesions involving two lobes (OR 4.347; 95% CI 1.960–9.638) and three lobes (OR 2.787; 95% CI 1.055–7.363) were significant predictors of severe hemoptysis. However, a disease course between 1 and 5 years (OR 0.300; 95% CI 0.112–0.801) and involvement of the left lower lobe (OR 0.394; 95% CI 0.196–0.793) were protective factors for the prevention of massive hemoptysis. Lesions in the right upper lobe were more likely to cause massive hemoptysis (OR 1.458) than involvement of other lobes.

Conclusions

Diabetes and lesions involving two and three lobes, were risk factors for massive hemoptysis in patients with bronchiectasis. Disease duration between 1 and 5 years and involvement of the left lower lobe were protective factors, while lesions in the right upper lobe had a stronger relationship with massive hemoptysis in patients with bronchiectasis.
Diabetic ketoacidosis as a complication of methanol poisoning; a case report
Authors: Erfanifar Azam , Mahjani Mahsa , Salimpour Sara , Zamani Nasim , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complication of diabetes presenting with high anion gap metabolic acidosis. Methanol poisoning, on the other hand, is a toxicology emergency which presents with the same feature. We present a case of methanol poisoning who presented with DKA.

Case presentation

A 28-year-old male was referred to us with blurred vision and loss of consciousness three days after ingestion of 1.5 L of an unknown mixture of bootleg alcoholic beverage. He had history of insulin-dependent diabetes and had neglected his insulin shots on the day prior to hospital admission due to progressive loss of consciousness. Vital signs were normal and venous blood gas analysis showed severe metabolic acidosis and a methanol level of 10.2 mg/dL. After eight hours of hemodialysis, he remained unresponsive. Diabetic ketoacidosis was suspected due to positive urine ketone and blood sugar of 411 mg/dL. Insulin infusion was initiated which was followed by full awakening and extubation. He was discharged completely symptom-free after 4 weeks.

Conclusions

Diabetic ketoacidosis and methanol poisoning can happen simultaneously in a diabetic patient. Given the analogous high anion gap metabolic acidosis, physicians should pay particular attention to examination of the diabetic patients. Meticulous evaluation for both conditions is highly recommended.
Investigation of the understanding on tropical infectious diseases and oral health among dental professionals in China
Authors: Shuai Yi , Zhu Wenyin , Liu Bingyao , Li Ping , Jin Lei
Published: June 2022

Background

With the increasing exchange of domestic and international personnel, local infections of tropical infectious diseases are continuing in tropics and imported infections are emerging in non-tropics, some of which are accompanied by oral manifestations. Therefore, it is essential for dental professionals to identify the related oral manifestations, who are working for domestic medical service, international medical assistance, peace-keeping medical service or medical support of international joint military exercises. This study aims to investigate the attitude and knowledge of Chinese dental professionals on tropical infectious diseases and oral health, and to explore the difference between different genders, education backgrounds, professional identities, professional titles and tropics working experience.

Methods

Network questionnaire was used to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of 236 Chinese dental professionals towards tropical infectious diseases and oral health.

Results

The scores of the participants on tropical infectious diseases and oral health were quite low. Although working experience in the tropics partially affected the understanding, there was no difference between different genders, education backgrounds, professional identities and professional titles.

Conclusion

The understanding of dental professionals on tropical infectious diseases and oral health was insufficient. It is necessary to improve the clinical education and management specified with tropical infectious diseases and oral health.
DYRK1A reinforces epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma via cooperatively activating STAT3 and SMAD
Authors: Li Yang-ling , Zhang Man-man , Wu Lin-wen , Liu Ye-han , Zhang Zuo-yan , Zeng Ling-hui , Lin Neng-ming , Zhang Chong
Published: June 2022

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority of liver cancer cases, while metastasis is considered the leading cause of HCC-related death. However, the currently available treatment strategies for efficient suppression of metastasis are limited. Therefore, novel therapeutic targets to inhibit metastasis and effectively treat HCC are urgently required.

Methods

Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to determine the migration and invasion abilities of HCC cells in vitro. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), protein array, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation experiments were used to study the mechanism of DYRK1A-mediated metastasis. A tail vein metastasis model and H&E staining were utilized to assess metastatic potential in vivo.

Results

The results of the current study demonstrated that dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) was upregulated in HCC tissues compared with normal liver tissues. Additionally, the level of DYRK1A was increased in primary HCC tissues of patients with metastasis compared with those of patients without metastasis, and DYRK1A overexpression correlated with worse outcomes in liver cancer patients. Gain- and loss-of-function studies suggested that DYRK1A enhanced the invasion and migration abilities of HCC cells by promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Regarding the promoting effect of DYRK1A on cell invasion, the results showed that DYRK1A was coexpressed with TGF-β/SMAD and STAT3 signalling components in clinical tumour samples obtained from patients with HCC. DYRK1A also activated TGF-β/SMAD signalling by interacting with tuberous sclerosis 1 (TSC1) and enhanced metastasis of HCC cells by activating STAT3. Furthermore, DYRK1A promoted EMT by cooperatively activating STAT3/SMAD signalling.

Conclusion

Overall, the present study not only uncovered the promoting effect of DYRK1A on HCC metastasis and revealed the mechanism but also provided a new approach to predict and treat metastatic HCC.
Impact of periodic intensification of routine immunization within an armed conflict setting and COVID-19 outbreak in Cameroon in 2020
Authors: Njoh Andreas Ateke , Saidu Yauba , Bachir Hassan Ben , Ndoula Shalom Tchokfe , Mboke Eric , Nembot Raoul , Tambasho Afizu Chrakoh , Abizou Messang Blandine , Seungue Judith , Mbanga Clarence , Mbome Victor Njie
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Cameroon’s Southwest Region (SW) has been hit by an armed conflict for over half a decade now, negatively affecting the region’s routine immunization and disease surveillance activities. This negative effect was further acerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which alongside the conflict, caused thousands of children to miss out on life-saving vaccinations. Herein, we present the contribution of periodic intensification of routine immunization in improving immunization and surveillance activities amid crises.

Method

Periodic intensification of routine immunization (PIRI) and disease surveillance were carried out in three rounds per health district. Before the intervention, the security profile of each district involved was reviewed. Data for this study was extracted on vaccination and surveillance activities from the District Health Information Software and monthly regional reports for 2019 and 2020 from the SW delegation of health.

Results

54,242 persons were vaccinated in the SW following these interventions. An increase in performance was observed in all 18 health districts in 2020 compared to 2019. Both DPT-HebB-Heb-3 vaccine and OPV-3 coverage rose by 28% points. Similarly, the proportion of health districts that investigated at least a case of acute flaccid paralysis increased by 83%, rising from just three districts in 2019 to all 18 in 2020.

Conclusion

PIRI was a practical approach to improving vaccination coverage and surveillance indicators in this region amidst the ongoing armed conflict and COVID-19 pandemic.
Surgical versus non-surgical treatment of humeral SHAFT fractures compared by a patient-reported outcome: the Scandinavian Humeral diAphyseal Fracture Trial (SHAFT)—a study protocol for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Karimi Dennis , Brorson Stig , Midtgaard Kaare S. , Fjalestad Tore , Paulsen Aksel , Olerud Per , Ekholm Carl , Wolf Olof , Viberg Bjarke ,   SHAFT Collaborators, Stohlmann Katharina , Jalal Bamo , Cavallius Christian , Pedersen Esben S. , Frihagen Frede , Stensbirk Frederik , Illerström Henrik , Knak Jens , Nyholm Anne Marie , Schønnemann Jesper , Jensen Joakim , Sundkvist Jonas , Vinding Mads , Siesing Peter M. , Zivanovic Srdjan , Kring Søren
Published: June 2022

Background

The outcome of non-surgical treatment is generally good, but the treatment course can be long and painful with approximately a quarter of the patients acquiring a nonunion. Both surgical and non-surgical treatment can have disabling consequences such as nerve injury, infection, and nonunion. The purpose of the study is to compare patient-reported outcomes after surgical and non-surgical treatment for humeral shaft fractures.

Methods

A pragmatic randomized controlled trial (RCT) is planned with two study groups (SHAFT-Young and SHAFT-Elderly). A total of 287 eligible acute humeral shaft fractures are scheduled to be recruited and randomly allocated to surgical or non-surgical treatment with the option of early crossover due to delayed union. The surgical method within the allocation is decided by the surgeon. The primary outcome is the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score at 52 weeks, and is assessor blinded. The secondary outcomes are DASH score, EQ-5D-5L, pain assessed by visual analog score, Constant-Murley score including elbow range of motion, and anchor questions collected at all timepoints throughout the trial. All complications will be reported including; infection, nerve or vascular injury, surgical revisions (implant malpositioning, hardware failure, aseptic loosening, and peri-implant fracture), major adverse cardiovascular events, and mortality.

Discussion

The SHAFT trial is a pragmatic multicenter RCT, that will compare the effectiveness of the main strategies in humeral shaft fracture treatment. This will include a variety of fracture morphologies, while taking the dilemmas within the population into account by splitting the population by age and providing the orthopedic society with an interval for early crossover surgery.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.govNCT04574336. Registered on 5 October 2020.
A virtual reality home-based training for the management of stress and anxiety among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pallavicini Federica , Orena Eleonora , di Santo Simona , Greci Luca , Caragnano Chiara , Ranieri Paolo , Vuolato Costanza , Pepe Alessandro , Veronese Guido , Stefanini Stefano , Achille Federica , Dakanalis Antonios , Bernardelli Luca , Sforza Francesca , Rossini Angelo , Caltagirone Carlo , Fascendini Sara , Clerici Massimo , Riva Giuseppe , Mantovani Fabrizia
Published: June 2022

Background

Healthcare workers represent one of the most affected categories by the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. Excessive stress and anxiety are critical factors that could compromise work performance. Besides, high levels of stress and anxiety may have long-term physical and psychological consequences. Recent studies investigated virtual reality to reduce stress and anxiety among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the proposed virtual reality interventions have important limitations related to their location (i.e., research lab and hospitals) and content (i.e., virtual experiences only for relaxation). Within this context, this randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the efficacy and acceptability of a brief home-based virtual reality training for managing stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 crisis in a sample of Italian healthcare workers.

Methods

The study is a randomized controlled trial. It includes two groups of 30 individuals recruited from healthcare workers: (1) the experimental group and (2) the control group. Participants in the experimental group will receive a training consisting of three home sessions performed in a week. In each session, participants will try through an immersive virtual reality standalone system (i.e., Oculus Quest 2) a virtual psychoeducation experience on stress and anxiety (i.e., MIND-VR). Subsequently, they will try the virtual relaxation content (i.e., The Secret Garden). The control group will receive no training and will be reassessed one week and one month after the initial evaluation.

Discussion

If the proposed brief home-based virtual reality training will result helpful and easy to use, it could become an empirically assessed viable option for protecting healthcare workers’ mental health both during the COVID-19 pandemic and once it will be over. Furthermore, the intervention might be easily adapted for other categories of people who need support in managing stress and anxiety.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04611399.
Rapid evolution of insecticide resistance and patterns of pesticides usage in agriculture in the city of Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Sonhafouo-Chiana Nadège , Nkahe Leslie Diane , Kopya Edmond , Awono-Ambene Parfait Herman , Wanji Samuel , Wondji Charles Sinclair , Antonio-Nkondjio Christophe
Published: June 2022

Background

The practice of agriculture in urban settings contributes to the rapid expansion of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors. However, there is still not enough information on pesticide usage in most urban settings. The present study aims to assess the evolution of Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) population susceptibility to insecticides and patterns of pesticide usage in agriculture in the city of Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Methods

WHO susceptibility tests and synergist PBO bioassays were conducted on adult An. gambiae (s.l.) mosquitoes aged 3 to 5 days emerging from larvae collected from the field. Seven insecticides (deltamethrin, permethrin, DDT, bendiocarb, propoxur, fenitrothion and malathion) were evaluated. The presence of target site mutation conferring knockdown (kdr) resistance was investigated using TaqMan assay, and mosquito species were identified using SINE-PCR. Surveys on 81 retailers and 232 farmers were conducted to assess general knowledge and practices regarding agricultural pesticide usage.

Results

High resistance intensity to pyrethroids was observed with a high frequency of the kdr allele 1014F and low frequency of the kdr 1014S allele. The level of susceptibility of An. gambiae (s.l.) to pyrethroids and carbamates was found to decrease with time (from > 34% in 2017 to < 23% in 2019 for deltamethrin and permethrin and from 97% in 2017 to < 86% in 2019 for bendiocarb). Both An. gambiae (s.s.) and An. coluzzii were recorded. Over 150 pesticides and fertilizers were sold by retailers for agricultural purposes in the city of Yaoundé. Most farmers do not respect safety practices. Poor practices including extensive and inappropriate application of pesticides as well as poor management of perished pesticides and empty pesticide containers were also documented.

Conclusions

The study indicated rapid evolution of insecticide resistance and uncontrolled usage of pesticides by farmers in agriculture. There is an urgent need to address these gaps to improve the management of insecticide resistance.

Graphical Abstract
Context matters: a systematic review of neonatal care in humanitarian emergencies
Authors: McBride Sally , Morgan Alison
Published: June 2022

Background

Of the 15 countries with the highest neonatal mortality rates, 13 are characterised by conflict and political instability. Despite well-documented evidence of best practice interventions for neonatal survival, it remains less clear on how these practices are implemented in humanitarian emergency settings.

Objective

To conduct a systematic review of published and grey literature on the implementation strategies and challenges in addressing neonatal care in humanitarian emergencies.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in SCOPUS, MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINHAL and Global Health for studies published between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2018. Additionally, websites of organisations actively working in humanitarian emergencies were searched. Interventions were reviewed against the existing essential newborn care framework according to the standards outlined in the Newborn Health in Humanitarian Settings Field Guide.

Results

Twenty-one studies were identified: eight reporting on conflict and refugee settings, nine followed natural disasters and four discussed multiple emergency settings. Few studies addressed all the components of essential newborn care outlined in the field guide regardless of the emergency type. The review of literature demonstrated challenges in addressing essential newborn care identified in all humanitarian settings including the lack of adequate equipment, financing, and trained staff. Implementation strategies identified included quality improvement training for staff, the development of evacuation procedures, integrating with local and government resources and generating spaces in health facilities specifically for newborn care.

Conclusions

The requirements and initiatives needed to deliver essential newborn care in humanitarian settings are highly variable and context dependent. Given the diversity of factors needing to be addressed by the field guide, more research should be directed towards the adaptability of the implementation strategies to differing emergency contexts.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration ID: CRD42018098824
Systematic review of guidance for the collection and use of patient-reported outcomes in real-world evidence generation to support regulation, reimbursement and health policy
Authors: Maruszczyk Konrad , Aiyegbusi Olalekan Lee , Torlinska Barbara , Collis Philip , Keeley Thomas , Calvert Melanie J.
Published: June 2022

Background

Real-world evidence (RWE) plays an increasingly important role within global regulatory and reimbursement processes. RWE generation can be enhanced by the collection and use of patient-reported outcomes (PROs), which can provide valuable information on the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of health interventions from the patient perspective. This systematic review aims to examine and summarise the available PRO-specific recommendations and guidance for RWE generation.

Methods and findings

Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Excerpta Medica Database, and websites of selected organisations were systematically searched to identify relevant publications. 1,249 articles were screened of which 7 papers met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The included publications provided PRO-specific recommendations to facilitate the use of PROs for RWE generation and these were extracted and grouped into eight major categories. These included: (1) instrument selection, (2) participation and engagement, (3) burden to health care professionals and patients, (4) stakeholder collaboration, (5) education and training, (6) PRO implementation process, (7) data collection and management, and (8) data analysis and presentation of results. The main limitation of the study was the potential exclusion of relevant publications, due to poor indexing of the databases and websites searched.

Conclusions

PROs may provide valuable and crucial patient input in RWE generation. Whilst valuable insights can be gained from guidance for use of PROs in clinical care, there is a lack of international guidance specific to RWE generation in the context of use for regulatory decision-making, reimbursement, and health policy. Clear and appropriate evidence-based guidance is required to maximise the potential benefits of implementing PROs for RWE generation. Unique aspects between PRO guidance for clinical care and other purposes should be differentiated. The needs of various stakeholder groups (including patients, health care professionals, regulators, payers, and industry) should be considered when developing future guidelines.
Evaluation of tuberculosis infection in COVID-19 patients: a case of tuberculosis and COVID-19 co-infection
Authors: Niazkar Hamid Reza , Zibaee Behdad , Razavi Seyed Behzad , Ghanaeian Kasra , Talebzadeh Vahid , Vosugh Negin Haji
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic affected millions of people worldwide, becoming a challenge of every nation. Since the COVID-19 can present wide spectrum of clinical signs and symptoms, patients with symptoms similar to that of COVID-19 may be misdiagnosed during the context of COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, various co-infections may affect the outcome of COVID-19 patients if it lefts undiagnosed, especially during the administration of immunosuppressive drugs. Similar to COVID-19, TB affect the lungs and respiratory airways primarily. These two diseases have resembling symptoms, including dry cough, fever, and dyspnea. Due to the importance of early COVID-19 diagnosis, many other respiratory infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB) may be missed. Herein, a case of COVID-19 and tuberculosis co-infection is presented.
Cleavage of the selective autophagy receptor SQSTM1/p62 by the SARS-CoV-2 main protease NSP5 prevents the autophagic degradation of viral membrane proteins
Authors: Zhang Yabin , Liu Shiyan , Xu Qingjia , Li Huihui , Lu Kefeng
Published: June 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic. Omicron, a new variant of SARS-CoV-2, has the characteristics of strong transmission and pathogenicity, short incubation period, and rapid onset progression, and has spread rapidly around the world. The high replication rate and intracellular accumulation of SARS-CoV-2 are remarkable, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Autophagy acts as a conservative cellular defence mechanism against invading pathogens. Here, we provide evidence that the main protease of SARS-CoV-2, NSP5, effectively cleaves the selective autophagy receptor p62. NSP5 targets p62 for cleavage at glutamic acid 354 and thus abolishes the capacity of p62 to mediate selective autophagy. It was further shown that p62 specifically interacted with ubiquitinated SARS-CoV-2 M, the viral membrane protein, to promote its autophagic degradation. In the presence of NSP5, p62-mediated autophagic degradation of the M protein was inhibited. The cleaved products of p62 also cannot facilitate the degradation of the M protein. Collectively, our findings reveal that p62 is a novel host target of SARS-CoV-2 NSP5 and suggest that selective autophagy targets viruses and potential strategies by which the virus evades autophagic clearance. Our results may provide new ideas for the development of anti-COVID-19 drugs based on autophagy and NSP5.
Satisficing: Integrating Two Traditions
Authors: Artinger Florian M. , Gigerenzer Gerd , Jacobs Perke
Published: June 2022

In 1955, Herbert Simon introduced the notion of satisficing: an agent satisfices by searching for an alternative that meets an aspiration level but does not optimize. We survey more than 60 years of advances in understanding satisficing in economics, psychology, and management, identifying two research traditions that address two classes of situations: under risk, satisficing is typically inferior to optimization strategies and modeled according to the neoclassical framework; under uncertainty, satisficing strategies are often derived empirically and can be highly effective. We integrate the two research traditions and show the conditions under which satisficing can be rational. (JEL D11, D80, D90)
Candidasis hepatoesplénica como causa de fiebre de origen desconocido: presentación de caso
Authors: Cortés José S. , Jiménez Silvana , Giraldo Germán
Published: June 2022

Introducción: la fiebre de origen desconocido (FOD) tiene diferentes definiciones según el contexto. La definición clásica dice que es una fiebre de 38.3 °C durante más de 3 semanas que permanece sin diagnóstico tras la realización de una serie de estudios de laboratorio e imágenes diagnósticas. En el enfoque de los pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas y fiebre de origen desconocido deben considerarse como posibles causas presentaciones de enfermedades poco frecuentes. Presentación del caso: se describe el caso de una mujer de 27 años con antecedente de leucemia mieloide aguda en quien apareció una neutropenia febril tras un ciclo de quimioterapia. La fiebre persistió por varias semanas a pesar del tratamiento para los gérmenes aislados y haberse descartado actividad neoplásica. Tras padecer dolor abdominal e ictericia, una resonancia magnética de abdomen mostró hallazgos sugestivos de candidiasis hepatoesplénica. A la paciente se le inició tratamiento con fluconazol y prednisolona, con lo que se resolvieron sus síntomas. Un año después, la paciente aún tiene lesiones hepáticas, por lo que continúa su tratamiento. Conclusión: la candidiasis hepatoesplénica es la forma más común de candidiasis crónica diseminada. La fiebre después de la recuperación de la neutropenia absoluta siempre debe hacer sospechar la presencia de candidiasis hepatoesplénica. Este caso ilustra claramente la recomendación de guiar el estudio de un paciente con FOD según la presentación de pistas potencialmente diagnósticas.
A compassion-focused approach to supporting change in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Duff Alexa
Published: June 2022

Alexa Duff explores how to motivate change among patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease by activating their soothe and drive systems without stimulating their threat systems
Caring during and after a pandemic
Authors: Díaz Ana González , Díaz Concepción Capilla
Published: June 2022

Ana González Díaz and Concepción Capilla Díaz explore how the internet has revolutionised healthcare, as well as the challenges it presents for communication among and between professionals and patients
Transanal irrigation devices: an overview
Authors: Harris Gemma
Published: June 2022

Transanal irrigation (TAI) is a safe and effective treatment but should not be carried out before less invasive treatment options have been trialled. A thorough assessment of the patient and consideration of their preferences and tolerance should determine TAI suitability and system choice. The range of available TAI) equipment can be overwhelming. Therefore, to aid health professionals, this article presents a summary of the latest available TAI devices on the market, as well as guidance on how to select a suitable device. TAI devices can be categorised into low- or high-volume; cones, catheters or balloon inflating devices; manual, electric pump or gravity-fed systems; and bed systems. Determining whether a low or high volume of water is required is a good starting point for device selection. Nurses should be aware of available devices and select one most suitable for a patient, as well as adequately train them in its usage and provide followup support. Nurses should communicate the potential improvement to quality of life TAI can offer and encourage adherence to avoid premature discontinuation.
High-intensity interval training in people with mild multiple sclerosis: a mixed-methods feasibility study
Authors: Humphreys Liam , Carter Anouska , Sharrack Basil , Copeland Robert
Published: June 2022

Background/Aims

High-intensity interval training has received increased attention as a mode of exercise, including as a therapy in clinical populations. This study investigated the acceptability of a high-intensity interval training intervention in people with mild multiple sclerosis.

Methods

Participants attended two sessions a week for the 6-week intervention. Each session consisted of 6–10 sets of 60-second high-intensity intervals interspersed with 120 seconds of recovery. The acceptability, intervention adherence and safety of the high-intensity interval training protocol and estimates of treatment effects (fitness, physical activity levels, fatigue and quality of life) were used to determine intervention feasibility. Qualitative interviews were used to explore the acceptability of the intervention.

Results

A total of 11 people with mild multiple sclerosis consented to participate in a 6-week high-intensity interval intervention. One participant dropped out of the intervention. The participants expressed apprehension before the intervention but attendance at the exercise sessions was high (87%). Participants experienced some symptom exacerbation following sessions, although none were serious. Improvements were seen in fitness, physical activity, fatigue and health-related quality of life.

Conclusions

The study findings suggest that high-intensity interval training is acceptable, safe and may offer disease-related benefits for the participants. Participants did experience some symptom exacerbation and further studies are needed to determine the long-term appeal of high-intensity interval training for people with mild multiple sclerosis.
Ultrafast soliton delivered by miniaturized mode-locker with MoTe2 and core-expanded fiber
Authors: Han X. , Yue J. , Hu X. , Feng L. , Yan X. , Zhang Y.
Published: June 2022

Thermally expanded core (TEC) technology is an effective method of high-power fiber lasers. Miniaturization is also a major challenge for high-power lasers. We have proposed a miniaturized mode-locker based on TEC fiber and

M
o
T

e

2

-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. The proposed mode-locker is consisting of two TEC ferrules, a piece of

M
o
T

e

2

-PVA film and a ceramic sleeve. The length of the proposed device is about 20 mm, and its outer diameter is about 2 mm. The relations between heating time, heating temperature, and mode field diameter (MFD) have been numerically simulated. The bending loss with respect to MFD has also been analyzed. The simulation results have revealed the trade-off relation between maximal tolerable intensity and low cavity loss, which means that there is an optimal MFD corresponding to optimal heating time and heating temperature. The proposed mode-locker has been applied in an integrated fiber laser, which has emitted ultrafast soliton with 3 times intensity larger than that of conventional sandwiched-type saturable absorber. The proposed mode-locker and fiber laser will find important applications in laser processing, laser ranging, and optical communication.
Semiconductor optical amplifiers: recent advances and applications
Authors: Sobhanan Aneesh , Anthur Aravind , O’Duill Sean , Pelusi Mark , Namiki Shu , Barry Liam , Venkitesh Deepa , Agrawal Govind P
Published: June 2022

Owing to advances in fabrication technology and device design,
semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) are evolving as a promising
candidate for future optical coherent communication links. This review
article focuses on the fundamentals and broad applications of SOAs,
specifically for optical channels with advanced modulation formats, as
an integrable broadband amplifier in commercial transponders and as a
nonlinear medium for optical signal processing. We discuss the basic
functioning of an SOA and distortions of coherent signals when SOAs
are used as amplifiers. We first focus on the techniques used for
low-distortion amplification of phase-modulated signals using SOAs.
Then we discuss optical signal processing techniques enabled by SOAs
with an emphasis on all-optical wavelength conversion, optical phase
conjugation, and phase quantization of coherent optical signals.
Pulmonary drug delivery and retention: A computational study to identify plausible parameters based on a coupled airway-mucus flow model
Authors: Chakravarty Aranyak , Panchagnula Mahesh V. , Mohan Alladi , Patankar Neelesh A.
Published: June 2022

Pulmonary drug delivery systems rely on inhalation of drug-laden aerosols produced from aerosol generators such as inhalers, nebulizers etc. On deposition, the drug molecules diffuse in the mucus layer and are also subjected to mucociliary advection which transports the drugs away from the initial deposition site. The availability of the drug at a particular region of the lung is, thus, determined by a balance between these two phenomena. A mathematical analysis of drug deposition and retention in the lungs is developed through a coupled mathematical model of aerosol transport in air as well as drug molecule transport in the mucus layer. The mathematical model is solved computationally to identify suitable conditions for the transport of drug-laden aerosols to the deep lungs. This study identifies the conditions conducive for delivering drugs to the deep lungs which is crucial for achieving systemic drug delivery. The effect of different parameters on drug retention is also characterized for various regions of the lungs, which is important in determining the availability of the inhaled drugs at a target location. Our analysis confirms that drug delivery efficacy remains highest for aerosols in the size range of 1-5 μm. Moreover, it is observed that amount of drugs deposited in the deep lung increases by a factor of 2 when the breathing time period is doubled, with respect to normal breathing, suggesting breath control as a means to increase the efficacy of drug delivery to the deep lung. A higher efficacy also reduces the drug load required to be inhaled to produce the same health effects and hence, can help in minimizing the side effects of a drug.
Generation and characterization of Ccdc28b mutant mice links the Bardet-Biedl associated gene with mild social behavioral phenotypes
Authors: Fabregat Matías , Niño-Rivero Sofía , Pose Sabrina , Cárdenas-Rodríguez Magdalena , Bresque Mariana , Hernández Karina , Prieto-Echagüe Victoria , Schlapp Geraldine , Crispo Martina , Lagos Patricia , Lago Natalia , Escande Carlos , Irigoín Florencia , Badano Jose L.
Published: June 2022

CCDC28B (coiled-coil domain-containing protein 28B) was identified as a modifier in the ciliopathy Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS). Our previous work in cells and zebrafish showed that CCDC28B plays a role regulating cilia length in a mechanism that is not completely understood. Here we report the generation of aCcdc28bmutant mouse using CRISPR/Cas9 (Ccdc28b mut). Depletion of CCDC28B resulted in a mild phenotype.Ccdc28b mutanimalsi)do not present clear structural cilia affectation, although we did observe mild defects in cilia density and cilia length in some tissues,ii)reproduce normally, andiii)do not develop retinal degeneration or obesity, two hallmark features of reported BBS murine models. In contrast,Ccdc28b mutmice did show clear social interaction defects as well as stereotypical behaviors. This finding is indeed relevant regardingCCDC28Bas a modifier of BBS since behavioral phenotypes have been documented in BBS. Overall, this work reports a novel mouse model that will be key to continue evaluating genetic interactions in BBS, deciphering the contribution ofCCDC28Bto modulate the presentation of BBS phenotypes. In addition, our data underscores a novel link betweenCCDC28Band behavioral defects, providing a novel opportunity to further our understanding of the genetic, cellular, and molecular basis of these complex phenotypes.
Effects of selenium nanoparticle on the growth performance and nutritional quality in Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Dawit Moges Fasil , Hamdi Hamida , Al-Barty Amal , Zaid Abeer Abu , Sundaray Manisha , Parashar S. K. S. , Gubale Abebe Getahun , Das Biswadeep
Published: June 2022

Selenium is an important micronutrient that has antioxidant, growth potential, and reproduction enhancement abilities in various organisms. The aquaculture industry is a significant contributor towards meeting the dietary requirements of a majority of the global population, which further warrants developing novel approaches for enhancing the production of dietary fish. This study was performed to assess the growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings (1 gm in average weight and 2.75 cm in average length) upon nano-selenium (Se-Nps) supplementation. Nanoselenium was synthesized using high-energy ball milling (HEBM) using a 10-hour dry milling technique at 10:1 ball-to-powder ratio (BPR), size characterized by XRD and TEM, followed by mixing with basal feed in desired concentrations (0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, and 2 mg/kg) and administration to Nile tilapia fingerlings for 30 days, followed by the evaluation of growth performance parameters, fatty acid profile analysis using GC-MS, and nutritional quality index (NQI): [Thrombogenicity Index (IT), Atherogenicity Index (IA), n-3/n-6, n-6/n-3)]. Nile tilapia supplemented with 1 mg/kg Se-Nps showed improved growth performance (RGR: 1576.04%, SGR: 4.70%, and FCR: 1.91), demonstrated by higher survivability (> 95%), isometric growth (coefficient of allometry, b = 2.81), and higher weight gain compared to control (RGR: 680.41%, SGR: 3.42%, and FCR: 1.31), 0.5 mg/kg Se-Nps (RGR: 770.83%, SGR: 3.61%, and FCR: 1.18) and 2 mg/kg Se-Nps (RGR: 383.67%, SGR: 2.63%, and FCR: 1.22). The average length-weight relationship assessed as the condition factor (K) was highest in the 1 mg/kg Se-Nps group compared to others (p < 0.05). GC-MS analysis revealed that Nile tilapia supplemented with 1 mg/kg Se-Nps showed better meat quality, higher amount of n-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, high PUFA/SAFA ratios (1.35) and n-3/n-6 (0.33) ratios, with low atherogenicity index (0.36) and thrombogenic index (0.44), and relatively low n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio (3.00) compared to other groups. Overall, Se-Nps supplementation at 1 mg/kg enhanced the growth performance and meat quality in Nile tilapia, and therefore could be a potential growth-promoting micronutrient for aquaculture enhancement.
Artificial intelligence-designed single molar dental prostheses: A protocol of prospective experimental study
Authors: Chau Reinhard Chun Wang , Chong Ming , Thu Khaing Myat , Chu Nate Sing Po , Koohi-Moghadam Mohamad , Hsung Richard Tai-Chiu , McGrath Colman , Lam Walter Yu Hang
Published: June 2022

Background

Dental prostheses, which aim to replace missing teeth and to restore patients’ appearance and oral functions, should be biomimetic and thus adopt the occlusal morphology and three-dimensional (3D) position of healthy natural teeth. Since the teeth of an individual subject are controlled by the same set of genes (genotype) and are exposed to mostly identical oral environment (phenotype), the occlusal morphology and 3D position of teeth of an individual patient are inter-related. It is hypothesized that artificial intelligence (AI) can automate the design of single-tooth dental prostheses after learning the features of the remaining dentition.

Materials and methods

This article describes the protocol of a prospective experimental study, which aims to train and to validate the AI system for design of single molar dental prostheses. Maxillary and mandibular dentate teeth models will be collected and digitized from at least 250 volunteers. The (original) digitized maxillary teeth models will be duplicated and processed by removal of right maxillary first molars (FDI tooth 16). Teeth models will be randomly divided into training and validation sets. At least 200 training sets of the original and the processed digitalized teeth models will be input into 3D Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) for training. Among the validation sets, tooth 16 will be generated by AI on 50 processed models and the morphology and 3D position of AI-generated tooth will be compared to that of the natural tooth in the original maxillary teeth model. The use of different GAN algorithms and the need of antagonist mandibular teeth model will be investigated. Results will be reported following the CONSORT-AI.
Risk of liver fibrosis in patients with prediabetes and diabetes mellitus
Authors: Park Jongsin , Kwon Heon-Ju , Sohn Won , Cho Ju-Yeon , Park Soo Jin , Chang Yoosoo , Ryu Seungho , Kim Byung Ik , Cho Yong Kyun
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the risk of liver fibrosis in those with no glucose intolerance, prediabetes, or diabetes. A cross-sectional study was conducted based on a cohort from a health examination program which included a magnetic resonance elastography (MRE). Participants were classified into three groups according to glucose tolerance: no glucose intolerance, prediabetes, and diabetes mellitus. Liver fibrosis was evaluated by liver stiffness measurement (LSM) value using two-dimensional real-time MRE. The risk of significant liver fibrosis was compared among three groups. A total of 2,090 subjects were included: no glucose intolerance (n = 889); prediabetes (n = 985); and diabetes (n = 216). Mean values of LSM in those with no glucose intolerance, prediabetes, and diabetes were 2.37 ± 0.43 kPa, 2.41 ± 0.34 kPa, and 2.65 ± 0.70 kPa, respectively (p<0.001). Proportions of significant fibrosis (LSM ≥2.97 kPa) in no glucose intolerance, prediabetes, and diabetes groups were 3.1%, 4.4%, and 16.7%, respectively (p<0.001). Compared with those with no glucose intolerance, those with diabetes had higher risk of significant fibrosis (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.57–5.81, p<0.001). However, there was no difference between prediabetes and no glucose intolerance (aOR: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.59–1.86, p = 0.876). A subgroup analysis also showed that prediabetes, unlike diabetes, was not associated with significant fibrosis in subjects with or without liver disease. Diabetes, but not prediabetes, is a risk factor for significant liver fibrosis. This finding is consistent regarldess of the pressence of liver disease.
Signal peptidase complex catalytic subunit SEC11A upregulation is a biomarker of poor prognosis in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hu Chunmei , Fan Jiangang , He Gang , Dong Chuan , Zhou Shijie , Zheng Yun
Published: June 2022

In the current study, we aimed to investigate the expression of the five microsomal signal peptidase complex (SPC) subunit genes (SEC11A, SEC11C, SPCS1, SPCS2, and SPCS3) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) and to explore their prognostic value. Data from the HNSC subset of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and one previous single-cell RNA-seq dataset was used. Subgroup analysis was conducted in tumors from different anatomic sites. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and immune cell infiltration analysis were performed to check the influence of SEC11A on the tumor microenvironment. Among the genes significantly upregulated in the tumor group, only SEC11A expression (as a continuous variable) is independently associated with poorer progression-free survival (PFS) (HR: 2.075, 95%CI: 1.447–2.977, p<0.001) and disease-specific survival (DSS) (HR: 2.023, 95%CI: 1.284–3.187, p = 0.002). Subgroup analysis confirmed the prognostic value in tumors from three anatomic origins, including laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, oral cavity-related squamous cell carcinoma, and oropharynx-related squamous cell carcinoma. SEC11A is expressed in all subtypes of cells in the tumor microenvironment. Its expression showed a moderate positive correlation with its gene-level copy number (Pearson’s r = 0.53, p<0.001). SEC11A expression was negatively correlated with CD8+ T cells and B cells, but was positively correlated with cancer-associated fibroblast and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the tumor microenvironment. In summary, SEC11A upregulation is a result of gene amplification in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Its upregulation might serve as an independent prognostic biomarker and a predictor of the infiltration of certain types of immune cells.
Tibiofemoral contact force differences between flat flexible and stable supportive walking shoes in people with varus-malaligned medial knee osteoarthritis: A randomized cross-over study
Authors: Starkey Scott , Hinman Rana , Paterson Kade , Saxby David , Knox Gabrielle , Hall Michelle
Published: June 2022

Objective

To compare the effect of stable supportive to flat flexible walking shoes on medial tibiofemoral contact force (MTCF) in people with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus malalignment.

Design

This was a randomized cross-over study. Twenty-eight participants aged ≥50 years with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus malalignment were recruited from the community. Three-dimensional full-body motion, ground reaction forces and surface electromyograms from twelve lower-limb muscles were acquired during six speed-matched walking trials for flat flexible and stable supportive shoes, tested in random order. An electromyogram-informed neuromusculoskeletal model with subject-specific geometry estimated bodyweight (BW) normalized MTCF. Waveforms were analyzed using statistical parametric mapping with a repeated measures analysis of variance model. Peak MTCF, MTCF impulse and MTCF loading rates (discrete outcomes) were evaluated using a repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance model.

Results

Statistical parametric mapping showed lower MTCF in stable supportive compared to flat flexible shoes during 5–18% of stance phase (p = 0.001). For the discrete outcomes, peak MTCF and MTCF impulse were not different between the shoe styles. However, mean differences [95%CI] in loading impulse (-0.02 BW·s [-0.02, 0.01], p<0.001), mean loading rate (-1.42 BW·s-1 [-2.39, -0.45], p = 0.01) and max loading rate (-3.26 BW·s-1 [-5.94, -0.59], p = 0.02) indicated lower measure of loading in stable supportive shoes compared to flexible shoes.

Conclusions

Stable supportive shoes reduced MTCF during loading stance and reduced loading impulse/rates compared to flat flexible shoes and therefore may be more suitable in people with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus malalignment.

Trial registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (12619000622101).