bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foot Exercise Movement Activities as Efforts to Lower Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Asih Akas Yekti Pulih , Setianto Budhi , Adriansyah Agus Aan , Iftitahurrohmah Iftitahurrohmah , Islami Sofia Nur , Tamaro Ahla
Published: August 2021

Based on Riskesdas in 2018, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Indonesia based on interviews showed an increase from 1.1 percent (2007) to 2.1 percent in 2019. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates that DM sufferers in Indonesia in 2020 will amount to 178 million people aged over 20 years and assuming a DM prevalence of 4.6%, 8.2 million DM patients will be obtained. The most data on visits from internal medicine policymakers at the outpatient clinic of Islamic Hospital in Surabaya were diabetes militus. One of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus is diabetic foot, which can manifest as ulcers, infections and gangrene and Charcot's arthropathy. The method used in this community service activity is carried out to increase knowledge and understanding of public awareness by doing foot exercises to reduce sugar levels. This community service activity is carried out by educating patients with diabetes at the Internal Medicine Department of the Islamic Hospital Surabaya. Diabetes exercise carried out by the GLC group which was carried out independently by the participants showed an average decrease in sugar levels with an average of 12.5 points with participants who routinely did regular exercise 4 times a week showing the largest number of points of decline. Sig. (2-tailed): Probability value / p value Paired T test: Result = 0.000 shows that there is a difference between before and after treatment. Implementation of diabetic foot exercises which were carried out independently at home by GLC patient at Surabaya Islamic Hospital A Yani
WITHDRAWN: On the in situ elimination of pores during laser powder bed fusion of a titanium alloy
Authors: zhang ling , Liao Wenhe , Liu Tingting , Wei Huiliang , Zhang Changchun
Published: August 2021

The printing quality of the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) components largely depends on the presence of various defects such as massive porosity. Thus, the efficient elimination of pores is an important factor to the production of a sound LPBF product. In this work, the efficacy of two in situ laser remelting approaches on the elimination of pores during LPBF of a titanium alloy Ti-6.5Al-3.5Mo-l.5Zr-0.3Si (TC11) were assessed using both experimental and computational methods. These two remelting methods are the surface remelting, and the layer-by-layer printing and remelting. A multi-track and multi-layer phenomenological model was established to compute the evolution of pores with the temperature and velocity fields. The results showed that surface remelting with a high laser power such as 180 W laser can effectively eliminate pores within three deposited layers. However, such a remelting cannot reach defects in deeper regions. Alternatively, the layer-by-layer remelting with a laser power of 180 W can effectively eliminate the pores formed in the previous layer in real time. The results obtained from this work can provide useful guidance for the in situ control of printing defects supported by the real time monitoring, feedback and operation systems of the intelligent LPBF equipment.
Duffy blood system and g6pd genetic variants in p. Vivax malaria patients from manaus, amazonas, brazil
Authors: Ferreira Natália Santos , Mathias Jéssica Lorena dos Santos , Albuquerque Sérgio Roberto Lopes , Almeida Anne Cristine Gomes , Dantas Ana Carla , Anselmo Fernanda Cozendey , Lima Emerson Silva , Lacerda Marcus Vinicius Guimarães , Nogueira Paulo Afonso , Ramasawmy Rajendranath , Gonçalves Marilda de Souza , Neto Jose Pereira Moura
Published: August 2021

Background

Over a third of the world’s population lives at risk of potentially severe Plasmodium vivax induced malaria. The unique aspect of the parasite’s biology and interactions with the human host make it harder to control and eliminate the disease. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and Duffy-negative blood groups are two red blood cell variations shown to confer protection against malaria.
Methods

Molecular genotyping of G6PD and Duffy was performed in 225 patients with severe and non-severe malaria randomly admitted at a reference center for infectious disease from Manaus. For G6PD variants characterization of the variants, Real Time PCR (qPCR) was performed, while Duffy genotyping by PCR-RFLP.
Results

Of the 225 patients, 29 (12.94%) and 43 (19.19%) were carriers of the G6PD c.202G > A and c.376A > G, respectively. For the Duffy genotype (c.-67T > C in the GATA promoter region), 70 (31.11%) were phenotyped as Fy(a + b-), 98 (43.55%) Fy(a + b+), 56 (24.9%) Fy(a-b+) and 1 (0.44%) Fy(a-b-). The FY*01/FY*02 genotype was prevalent in both non-severe and severe malaria. In women, the FY*01/FY*02 allele occurred concomitantly with c.376A > G more frequently in non-severe malaria, while in men, this combination was predominant in severe malaria. Duffy phenotype Fy(a-b+) (p = 0.022) and genotypes FY*01/FY*01 / FY*02/FY*02 (p = 0.015) correlated with high parasitemia density before and after treatment.
Conclusions

Our results showed only one uncomplicated vivax malaria patient with Duffy phenotype Fy(a-b-). Heterozygous GATA variants did not confer protection against malaria infection in this study. Research on G6PD and Duffy antigen deficiencies has been valuable, particularly when focused on densely populated areas. Our results confirm possible genetic molding mechanisms in vivax malaria in our Amazon region and can help to improve the understanding of the relationship between G6PD deficiency and Duffy genotypes concomitantly in the protection or susceptibility to P. vivax infection. Molecular diagnosis before treatment may be necessary in the Amazonian population, regardless of the diagnosis of uncomplicated or severe malaria.
High School Students’ Emotional Perception and Attitudes Toward English Teacher’s Feedback in Cloud Classroom Learning Environments
Authors: Liu Xixi , Yu Liheng , Yu Zhonggen
Published: August 2021

Cloud classrooms are catching increasing attention in English teaching during the outbreak. This study, by using multiple correlation analysis, path analysis, and data collected from randomly selected 230 participants, explored the effects of students’ emotional perceptions and attitudes towards teaching feedback in cloud classroom learning environments. It was concluded that all emotional perceptions correlated significantly and positively, and of which learning motivation was the most significant effect, followed by interest. Besides, learning motivation could essentially predict the perceived teaching feedback in this learning environment. Furthermore, students with strong self-confidence could spark their learning motivation and interest in English learning. Concerning students’ attitudes towards teachers’ feedback, high-score students preferred more profound and euphemistic comments; medium-score students hoped to catch more attention and obtain positive feedback from teachers; poor-score students favored direct and explicit evaluations. These findings might be helpful to future researchers who attempt to discover non-verbal and peer feedback to students’ learning outcomes and emotions in technology-based learning environments.
Application of Machine Learning and Acoustic Predation Tags to Classify Migration Fate of Atlantic Salmon Smolts
Authors: Notte Daniela , Lennox Robert J. , Hardie David C. , Crossin Glenn T.
Published: August 2021

Mortality and predation of tagged fishes presents a serious challenge to interpreting results of acoustic telemetry studies. There is a need for standardized methods to identify predated individuals and reduce the impacts of “predation bias” on results and conclusions. Here, we use emerging approaches in machine learning and acoustic tag technology to classify out-migrating Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolts into different fate categories. We compared three methods of fate classification; predation tag pH sensors and detection data, unsupervised k-means clustering, and supervised random forest combined with tag pH sensor data. Random forest models increased predation estimates by 9-32% compared to pH sensor data, while clustering reduced estimates by 3.5-30%. The greatest changes in estimates were seen in years with large class imbalance or low model accuracy. Both supervised and unsupervised approaches were able to classify smolt fate, however, in-sample model accuracy improved when using tag sensor data to train models, emphasizing the value of incorporating such sensors when studying predator-prone fish. Sensor data may not be sufficient to identify predation in isolation due to Type I and Type II error in predation sensor triggering. Combining sensor data with machine learning approaches should be standard practice to more accurately classify fate of tagged fish.
FURIN correlated with immune infiltration serves as a potential biomarker in SARS-CoV-2 infection-related lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Luo Lianxiang , Li Manshan , Su Jiating , Yao Xinyue , Luo Hui
Published: August 2021

FURIN, as a proprotein convertase, has been found to be expressed in a variety of cancers and plays an important role in cancer. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) requires FURIN to enter human cells. However, the role of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. And the expression of SARS-CoV-2 related gene in lung adenocarcinoma has not been clarified. Therefore, in order to explore the prognostic value and mechanism of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma, we performed bioinformatics analysis with Oncomine, TIMER (Tumor Immune Estimation Resource), GEPIA (Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis), HPA (human protein atlas), UALCAN, PrognoScan, Kaplan-Meier plotter, cBioPortal, and LinkedOmics databases. And then We used GSE44274 in the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database to analyze the expression of FURIN in LUAD patients who infected with SARS-CoV. FURIN was highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma and was significantly associated with poor overall survival. FURIN expression was found to be correlated with six major permeable immune cells and with macrophage immune marker in LUAD patients. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 infection might affect the expression of FURIN. FURIN can be used as a promising biomarker for determining prognosis and immune infiltration in LUAD patients.
Menstrual hygiene practice and its determinants among Adolescent Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Anbesu Etsay Woldu , Aychiluhm Setognal Birara
Published: August 2021

Background: Poor menstrual hygiene practices can lead to gynecological problems, psychosocial stress, and reduced access to school. Menstrual hygiene has not received adequate attention in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite this, there are fragmented and inconsistent findings in Sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of good menstrual hygiene practice and identify its associated factors among adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: The protocol for this review was registered at PROSPERO with registration number: CRD42020165628. In this study, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline will be used to report the protocol. Online electronic databases PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL and unpublished grey literature will be searched to retrieve available studies from January 1-May/2021. The selection, data extraction, and quality assessment of studies will be carried by two authors. Joanna Briggs Institute checklist will be used to assess the quality of the studies. Heterogeneity among studies will be examined using a chi-squared test and I-squared statistic. To investigate sources of heterogeneity, subgroup analyses and meta-regression will be done based on region and sample size. Sensitivity analysis will be conducted to identify influential studies. Publication bias will be examined by funnel plots and Egger’s test. The statistical analysis will be conducted using STATA version-14 software. A random-effect model will be used to estimate the pooled prevalence, and statistical significance will be determined at a p-value of <0.05.Discussion: Poor menstrual hygiene practice affects the health of millions of adolescent girls in developing countries. Currently, there are no synthesis research findings on the pooled prevalence of menstrual hygiene practice and its associated factor in Sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, the findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be helpful to inform policy-makers, planners, and researchers to design appropriate interventions.
Exploration of Long-Range Surface Plasmon Resonance on Multilayer Single Mode Optical Fiber With Function of MgF2
Authors: Zakaria Rozalina , Zainuddin N.A.M. , Fahri M.A.S. Ahmad , Kamkar Amrita , Zahrani Fahad Ahmed Al , Patel Shobhit K. , Ahmed Kawsar
Published: August 2021

Multilayer models for single mode optical fiber based on Long Range Surface Plasmon Resonance (LRSPR) coated with silver (Ag) and gold (Au) with dielectric function of MgF2 are introduced. Properties for the models are theoretically and experimentally reported in this work. Firstly, the performances of different models are investigated using COMSOL simulation. Different combinations of magnesium fluoride (MgF2) and Ag/Au material embedded layers are applied to observed functionality of dielectric layers underneath the analyte. In theoretical analysis, MgF2-Ag and MgF2Ag-MgF2 layers conveys the best performance in sensing. The combination of plasmonic material Ag with MgF2 rather than Au shows higher sensitivity response. The experimental has been carried out with these configurations where exhibit the sensitivities of 1762.5 nm/RIU and 1250 nm/RIU at 1.371.38 and 1.33-1.34 RI range respectively for silver-based models. The outcomes indicate the proposed LRSPR based models with specific dielectric where here MgF2 found to be a strong match in sensing applications.
Comparison of Changes in Number of Hyperreflective Dots After İntravitreal Ranibizumab or Dexamethasone İmplant in Patients with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Karalezli Aylin , Kaderli Sema , Kaderli Ahmet , Kaya Cansu , Sul Sabahattin
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To compare the effect of intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) or intravitreal dexamethasone implants (IVD) on regression of hyperreflective dots (HRDs) on optical coherence tomography (OCT) B-scan in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Methods: 37 eyes of 37 patients with cystoid macular edema who received IVR or IVD and followed up for at least 12 months were included in this study. The patients were divided into three groups according to intravitreal treatment. Group 1 consisted of 12 eyes who received only IVD, group 2 consisted of 10 eyes who received only IVR on a pro re nata and group 3 consisted of 15 eyes who received both IVD and IVR. OCT parameters (CMT, number of HRDs, status of external limiting membrane (ELM) and ellipsoid zone (EZ)) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were compared between the groups over the follow-up time. HRDs were categorized as HRD in inner retinal layers (from the internal limiting membrane to the inner nuclear layer) or HRD in outer retinal layers (from the outer plexiform layer to the outer border of the photoreceptor layer).Results: There was no significant difference between groups in terms of BCVA, CMT, HRDs in the inner and the outer retinal layers at baseline visit. (p˃0.05 for all) Comparing the baseline values in all groups, a significant decrease was observed in CMT in the first year. (For group 1; p=0.013, group 2; p=0.010; group 3, p<0.001) The BCVA was significantly increased after 1 year in all groups. (p=0.001, p=0.006, p<0.001) The mean number of HRDs in inner and outer retinal layers were significantly decreased in group 1 and group 3. (For group 1; p<0.001, p=0.001, for group 3; p<0.001, p<0.001) However, there was no significant difference in terms of the mean number of HRDs in inner and outer retinal layers for group 2. (p=0.134, p=0.477) At the first year, the number of HRDs in inner and outer retinal layers was significantly lower in group 1 and group 3 than group 2. (For inner HRDs; group 1 vs. group 2 p=0.007, group 2 vs. group 3 p<0.001. For outer HRDs group 1 vs. group 2 p<0.001, group 2 vs. group 3 p<0.001.) The BCVA was higher in group 3 than group 2 at 1year. (p=0.048). There was no significant difference in terms of post-treatment CMT and the number of HRDs between group 1 and group3 in posthoc tests (p=0.621, p=0.876, and p=0.632).Conclusion: The reduction in HRDs at 12 months and better BCVA after IVD intimates that the HRDs should be considered as inflammatory markers in the follow-up of CME in BRVO. Thus, IVD injection could be more appropriate for patients with higher HRDs after BRVO.
Drop race: How electrostatic forces influence drop motion
Authors: Li Xiaomei , Bista Pravash , Stetten Amy , Bonart Henning , Schür Maximilian , Hardt Steffen , Bodziony Francisco , Marschall Holger , Saal Alexander , Deng Xu , Berger Rüdiger , Weber Stefan , Butt Hans-Jürgen
Published: August 2021

Water drops sliding down inclined planes are an everyday phenomenon and are important in many technical applications. Previous understanding is that the motion is mainly dictated by viscous and capillary forces. Here we demonstrate that, in addition to these forces, drops on hydrophobic surfaces are affected by self-generated electrostatic forces. In a novel approach to determine forces on moving drops we imaged their trajectory when sliding down a tilted surface and apply the equation of motion. We found that drop motion on low-permittivity substrates is significantly influenced by electrostatic forces. Sliding drops deposit a negative charge on the surface, which interact with the positively charged drops. We derive an analytical model to describe the force and validate it by numerical computations. The results indicate how to describe and facilitate drop motion in applications, such as in microfluidics, water management on car surfaces, and the creation of sliding drop electrical generators.
Relationships Between Benthic Infauna and Groundwater Eutrophication On A Sandy Beach in Southern Brazil
Authors: Lorenzi Luciano , Mayer Devon Gebauer , Reginato Bruna Conte , Pagliosa Paulo Roberto , Dantas David Valença , Gentil Eduardo , Valencia Vladimir G. Toro
Published: August 2021

Urban expansion in Brazilian coastal zones has caused various anthropic impacts on coastal marine ecosystems that have resulted from unorganized use and the lack of infrastructure projects. The inadequate disposal of domestic and industrial effluents in coastal waterbodies is notable, which can cause severe environmental problems. For sandy beaches, the relationships between the contamination of groundwater with domestic sewage and the possible effects on spatial and temporal variations in the density and composition of benthic infauna are still poorly understood. This work aimed to relate variations in benthic infaunal associations with the concentrations of groundwater nutrients in summer and winter on Enseada Beach. The greater concentrations of nutrients in water percolating through the sediment in the summer, increasing of domestic effluents, and periods of intense precipitation increased the contamination of the surface and groundwater. This contributes to an increase in the population density of Thoracophelia furcifera, demonstrating its use as an indicator of eutrophication of the groundwater, allowing monitoring and contribution to actions aimed at improving the environmental quality of sandy beaches.
The Impact of Delirium On Prognosis In Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses of Observational Studies
Authors: zhang jing , wang xin , wang jie , liu kai , he tao , zhang xiya
Published: August 2021

Background The outcomes of post-stroke delirium are inconsistent. Therefore, we conduct a meta-analysis to provide a comprehensive description of the impact of delirium on the outcomes including including length of hospital stay and inpatient mortality after stroke. Methods We searched electronic databases including PubMed, Google scholar, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases up to April, 2021. Fixed-effect or random-effect model was used to summary odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD ) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results 13 individual studies with total of 3592 patients met the inclusion criteria. The summary results revealed that stroke patients with delirium increased risk of inpatient mortality (OR = 6.35, 95% CI: 4.35–9.25, p < 0.0001), and had longer length of hospital stay (MD = 5.93, 95% CI: 2.79–9.07, p < 0.0001) compared to non-delirious patients. Conclusions Delirium is associated with unfavorable outcomes in patients with stroke, particularly in higher inpatient mortality and longer length of stay. We should pay more attention to this clinical problem and managed appropriately to prevent poor prognosis.
A Filterless Frequency 32-Tupling Photonic Scheme To Generate Sub-Terahertz Wave Signal Enabled By Optical Polarization Modulators
Authors: Chen Xinqiao , Liu Xiaorui , Li Zhihan
Published: August 2021

A novel scheme based on polarization modulators to generate Sub-Terahertz wave (Sub-THz) signal with frequency 32-tupling is proposed. The system consists of two subsystems in cascade, and each subsystem consists of 4 paralleled polarization modulators. In this scheme, by properly controlling two subsystems, an optical signal with optical carrier and ±16th-order optical sidebands is achieved. Next, by adjusting the optical attenuator and optical phase shifter, the optical carrier can be canceled. Finally, the Sub-THz wave with frequency 32-tupling can be obtained after beaten in the photodetector. The results show the ±16th-order optical sideband suppression ratio (OSSR) is derived as 55.7 dB and the radio frequency sideband suppression ratio (RFSSR) of the 32-tupling Sub-THz wave is derived as 43.66 dB, which are consistent with the theoretical analysis very well. Meanwhile, the effects of phase offset, modulation index, and attenuator deviation on suppression ratio are analyzed.
Dealing with Sensitive Research and the Professional/Researcher Dilemma; A Reflective Account on Men Living with Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Salifu Yakubu , Almack Kathryn , Caswell Glenys
Published: August 2021

Background: There is developing literature that addresses the ethics and sensitivity of undertaking research with patients (and their family members) receiving palliative or end of life care, but there is little published guidance for a novice researcher and sparse evidence in this area that take account of culturally sensitive and resource-poor settings. Sensitive research can be emotionally challenging for researchers too.Aim/ Method: This is a reflective account that draws upon research with men who have advanced prostate cancer and their family caregivers in a health resource-limited contextFindings: From a research standpoint, two sets of operational issues on challenging emotions and ethics were encountered. The first set of challenges involved the difficulty of researching in a poorly resourced country where many of the things that are taken for granted in the Western world is not the same for researchers. Patients and their caregivers have little access to palliative care, and family members provide most care at home. The second set of challenges entails having to navigate dual roles seamlessly as a nurse as well as a researcher-in-training. Dealing with the issue of double identity and interviewing while dealing with concerns about the care that the researcher observed could be dangerous to the participant's health. Discussion: Although 'sensitive research' may provoke participants' emotional responses, and may put the researcher in a researcher/professional role conflict, it does have the potential for offering a therapeutic relationship. These included navigating issues of conducting interviews while also being asked for advice or identifying concerns about the care that were observed as potentially dangerous to the participant's health. Reaching out to participants about a research topic that carries cultural perceptions as a shameful and stigmatising disease is also challenging. Additionally, many aspects of fieldwork present additional considerations in resource-poor contexts. For example, travelling to and arranging fieldwork presents practical challenges, with poor transport and means of contacting participants. Conclusion: This article presents insights into palliative care research in a cultural context where there are many challenges beyond those discussed and encountered in resource-rich contexts. Such a hazing role between nurse and researcher has repercussions for nurses who do qualitative research into sensitive topics that elicit a passionate, emotional response.
Comprehensive Mental Health Facets And Association With Age, Stress And Coping Amid 'The New Normal' Pandemic: How Do Adolescents Differ From Adults?
Authors: Singh Shweta , Datta Manjistha , Gupta Pawan , Batra Saakshi , Tripathi Rakesh , Mahour Pooja , Arya Amit , Tripathi Adarsh , Gupta Bandna , Agarwal Manu , Nischal Anil , Agarwal Vivek , Dalal P.K.
Published: August 2021

Background: Given varied forms of stressors in the backdrop of the COVID 19 pandemic, adolescents are particularly vulnerable to specific mental health challenges. It pertinent to explore how adolescents differ from adults regarding the comprehensive mental health facets amid the 'new normal, i.e., the duration between the first and second wave of COVID-19 in a developing country like India. The present study aimed to compare the comprehensive mental health facets of adolescents with the adults. Also, it aimed to explore the association of mental health facets with age, perceived stress, coping and impact of pandemic. Methods: The study followed a cross-sectional design with 1,027 participants [456 adolescents; 347 young and 224 middle age-adults] recruited from schools and colleges. The Comprehensive DSM-5 Self-Rated Level 1 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure, Perceived Stress Scale and Brief COPE Scale were used for assessment. The difference between groups was analyzed using the Chi-Square Test of Independence and correlational analysis was done using Spearman Rank Correlation. Multiple regression analyses were performed for the mental health facets along with bootstrapping method. Results: 33.77% of adolescents, 25.65% of young adults, and 17.41% of middle-aged adults reported that their symptoms started during the pandemic. Compared to adults, the adolescents reported higher depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, anger, and somatic complaints. Significantly higher adolescent females (39.9%) were found to have sleep disturbances compared to their male counterparts (25.5%). Therefore, it can be observed Adolescents are more clinically vulnerable in most domains. The correlational analysis showed that most mental health domains, except substance use showed moderate-to-low correlations with ‘Impact of COVID’. Perceived stress, impact of COVID, self-distraction, self-blaming were significant independent positive predictors for all the mental health domains except substance use. ‘Age’ was negatively associated with depression anxiety, repetitive thoughts, personality changes, suicidal ideations and memory, and positively associated with ‘substance use’ at low levels. Maladaptive coping was moderately positively correlated with all the mental health domains. Conclusion: It can be observed Adolescents are more clinically vulnerable in most domains. This study provides a comprehensive analysis for assessment and clinical decision-making to combat the mental health problems arising and exacerbating due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings will help in planning and implementing an appropriate interventional program, and making policy decisions related to the vulnerable group of adolescents.
Reconstruction of Complex Soft-Tissue Defects in Buttock Using The Proximally Based Anterolateral Thigh Flap: An Alternative Algorithm
Authors: Wang Danying , Zang Mengqing , Zhu Shan , Chen Bo , Li Shanshan , Han Tinglu , Liu Yuanbo
Published: August 2021

Background

Local and free flaps are most widely used in buttock reconstruction. However, local flaps and free flaps may not be appropriate for all complex soft tissue defects in buttock. In this study, we propose an alternative approach for buttock reconstruction and provide preliminary assessment in clinical efficacy of using a proximally based anterolateral thigh flap for buttock reconstruction.
Methods

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the data of the patients with medium- to large-sized defects of buttock. All patients underwent buttock defect reconstruction using a proximally based anterolateral thigh flap between August 2012 and December 2020.
Results

Eight pedicled anterolateral thigh flaps were used to reconstruct buttock defects after tumor ablation in six patients, scar revision in one patient, melanocytic nevus resection in one patient. Flap size ranged from 25 × 8 cm to 30 × 12 cm, with pedicle length ranging from 12 to 20 cm. Flaps were elevated based on the distal musculocutaneous perforators from the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery and completely survived without any perfusion-related complications. We achieved satisfactory results from both the functional and aesthetic point-of-view at the 6-month follow-up in all cases.
Conclusions

The proximally based anterolateral thigh flap can be a valuable reconstructive option with sufficient tissue and a long vascular pedicle for buttock defect reconstruction.
Coping and Resilience: Two Peas in a Pod? A Mixed-methods Study on the Association Between Coping and Resilience among Caretakers of School-going Children with Disabilities in Uganda
Authors: Namasaba Mariam , Kazembe Neo , Seera Georgina , Baguwemu Ali Ayub
Published: August 2021

BackgroundIn Africa, caretakers of children with disabilities face stigma and report feeling isolated. The caretakers may take their children to school in the hope of finding solace from grim societal norms. However, schools for children with disabilities are often too ill-equipped to support the children or their caretakers. No study has examined how structural settings (like the type of school) may frame the association between coping and resilience. Thus, this study examined the association between coping and resilience among caretakers of school-going children with disabilities in Uganda.Methods The study used mixed methods to survey 621 caretakers of children with disabilities in Kampala district, Uganda. Hierarchical cluster analysis followed by binary logistic regression was conducted to examine the association between school type and caretakers’ coping patterns. Hierarchical linear regression was then employed to assess the association between coping and resilience with the type of school and other covariates. Qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis. Qualitative and quantitative results were triangulated with a convergent joint display.ResultsCaretakers of children in inclusive schools were more likely to use adaptive coping skills than caretakers of children in special needs schools (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.5; p = 0.04; 95% CI = 1.02-2.30). Caretakers of children in special needs schools had significantly higher resilience than caretakers of children in inclusive schools (B = 2.65; SE_B = 1.21; p = 0.02; n = 621). Caretakers who received social support from the school had significantly higher resilience than caretakers who received social support from informal sources (B = 2.33; SE_ B= 1.05; p = 0.03; B= 1.87)ConclusionThis study underscores the importance of structural factors, such as the school type, in framing caretakers' psychological outcomes. Schools that provide social support to caretakers play a crucial mediating role in how caretakers cope and influence their ability to adapt to the challenges they face. Therefore, schools for children with disabilities are an avenue that can be leveraged to support families and improve the psychological health outcomes of children and their caretakers.
Effect of Acetylation Modification on Structure and Properties of Windmill Palm Fiber
Authors: Chen Changjie , Tan jing , Zhang Weiguo , Wang Zhong , Wang Guohe , Wang Xinhou
Published: August 2021

Windmill palm fiber, a high-quality cellulose resource, can be extracted from discarded palm sheath. However, its application in textile filling and composite reinforcement is limited due to its hydrophilic solid. In this paper, effects of chemical treatment such as alkali, acetyl chloride, and acetic anhydride treatment on the micro-morphology, water repellency, sound absorption, thermal conductivity and thermal stability of the windmill palm fiber were investigated. The results showed that the surface of windmill palm fiber treated by alkali was relatively smooth and compact. In comparison, the acetylation treatment destroyed the cell wall with micro-holes on the surface. Acetylation modification can significantly improve the water repellency of fibers. Furthermore, thewater static contact angle can be achieved 148o. Acetylation treatment improved the sound absorption performance of the fiber mat with an average sound absorption coefficient of 0.47, kept low thermal conductivity of under 0.050 W/(m℃), and improved the thermal stability with the initial decomposition temperature 356oC.
Investigating The Benefits of Online Running Groups On The Well-Being of Their Female Running Members
Authors: Hughes Susan , Moorhead Anne
Published: August 2021

BackgroundOnline running communities are becoming increasingly prevalent within social media, and many groups have been exclusively established for female runners. The aim of this study was to investigate the wellbeing benefits and limitations of using Facebook running groups among women. MethodologyThe research design was a quantitative online survey. This survey was completed by 349 adult members of Facebook running groups for women. The online survey consisted of a validated scale, the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), to calculate individual wellbeing scores. Data were analysed using SPSS, conducting descriptives, frequencies and correlations tests. ResultsThe results showed that 14% of participants’ scores indicated a high level of wellbeing, 66% had a wellbeing score in the moderate range and 21% of participants scored in the range of low-level wellbeing. Participants specified how they perceived women’s running Facebook groups to benefit or limit areas of wellbeing. Responses indicated perceived benefits to sense of optimism, interest in other people and sense of feeling good about themselves. There were negligible perceived wellbeing limitations. Members who had been running for the longest reported to engage more frequently with the groups, which may suggest their identities as runners have strengthened over time. ConclusionOverall, this study clearly found that women’s running Facebook groups can provide wellbeing benefits for their members.
Paraganglioma Presenting Atypical Initial Symptoms: a Case Report
Authors: Eguchi Shu , Ono Rintaro , Sato Takeshi , Yada Keigo , Umehara Naoki , Narumi Satoshi , Ichihashi Yosuke , Nozaki Taiki , Kanomata Naoki , Hasegawa Tomonobu , Ozawa Miwa , Hasegawa Daisuke
Published: August 2021

Background: Paraganglioma (PGL), an extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma, is a rare tumor, especially in children. Here, we present a case of PGL with atypical initial symptoms.Case presentation: For seven months, an eight-year-old boy complained of polyuria and weight loss, followed by proteinuria and headache for one month prior to admission. He was admitted to our hospital due to an afebrile seizure. His blood pressure remained markedly elevated even after cessation of the convulsion. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Abdominal computed tomography showed a mass lesion encasing the left renal artery, measuring 41 mm in length along its major axis. The plasma and urine levels of normetanephrine were elevated. Additionally, iodine-123-metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy showed an abnormal uptake in the abdominal mass with no evidence of metastasis. We tentatively diagnosed him with PGL. Substantial alpha- and beta-blocking procedures were performed, followed by a tumor resection and an extended left nephrectomy on day 31 of hospitalization. Pathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of PGL. The postoperative course was uneventful, and his blood pressure normalized without the use of antihypertensive agents. Genetic testing revealed a known SDHB germline mutation. The patient remained asymptomatic for eleven months after surgery without relapse.Conclusion: It remains challenging to diagnose pheochromocytoma/PGL (PPGL) promptly because PPGL can present with a variety of symptoms. Although PPGL is a rare disease, especially in children, it should be considered in differential diagnosis when various unexplained symptoms persist.
Evaluation of Health Care Professional Response To Patient-Reported Distress In Gynecologic Oncology Clinics At An Academic Cancer Centre
Authors: Atallah Soha , Bender Jackie , Fyles Anthony , Han Kathy , Milosevic Michael , Ferguson Sarah E. , L’heureux Stephanie , Liu ZhihuiAmy , Croke Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Objective: To evaluate health care professional (HCP) documentation of elevated patient-reported symptoms and subsequent intervention in gynecologic oncology clinics. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of gynecologic oncology patients within a single institution. Prior to their clinical encounter, patients complete the validated Edmonton Symptom Assessment System revised (ESAS-r) questionnaire. Patients with any ESAS-r symptom score ≥4 (moderate-severe) were eligible for analysis. A stratified sampling method was used: 100 patients were randomly selected with 20 patients per year from 2012 to 2016. Patient, tumor and treatment characteristics were extracted from medical records. Health care provider (HCP) documentation of elevated symptoms and subsequent intervention were evaluated. Descriptive statistics were used to report symptom prevalence, HCP documentation and intervention. Fisher’s exact test evaluated documentation and intervention rates according to symptom severity and total ESAS-r score. Results: Between January 2012 and December 2016, 5849 patients completed the ESAS-r. Symptoms scores were ≥ 4 in 3216 patients (55%). In our sample of 100, ovarian (42%) and endometrial (34%) malignancies were most common. Median age was 55 years (range 47-63). Median ESAS-r score was 24 (range: 5-84), with tiredness being the most prevalent symptom reported by patients. HCP documented at least one elevated symptom in 50 patients (50%), most commonly for pain (71%) and least commonly for nausea (4%). Subsequent interventions were offered to only 32 patients (32%), most commonly for pain (56%). Higher median total ESAS-r score was associated with higher rate of documentation (p=0.004) and higher rate of intervention (p<0.001). Conclusions: A significant proportion of gynecologic oncology patients report symptom that should prompt an intervention. However, HCPs documented symptoms in only half of patients and reported interventions in only one third. These results highlight gaps and opportunities for improving symptom screening and response in the “real-world” setting.
Phenotypic Evolution of The Wild Progenitor of Cultivated Barley (Hordeum Vulgare Subsp. Spontaneum (C. Koch) Thell.) Across Bioclimatic Regions In Jordan
Authors: Hajaj Nawal Al , Grando Stefania , Ababnah Maysoon , Alomari Nawar , Albatianh Ahmad , Nesir Jeehan , Migdadi Hussain , Shakhatreh Yahya , Ceccarelli Salvatore
Published: August 2021

Climate change affects the evolutionary potential and the survival of wild plant populations by acting on fitness traits. Resurrection approach was applied to investigate the phenotypic changes during the evolution of the wild progenitor of cultivated barley, Hordeum spontaneum K. Koch in Jordan. We compared 40 Hordeum spontaneum K. Koch populations collected in Jordan in 1991 with 40 Hordeum spontaneum K. Koch populations collected from the same sites in 2014. In the comparison we included seven Hordeum vulgare checks (one local landrace and six improved varieties). The analysis of the phenotypic data showed that the populations were aggregated according to their ecological geographical pattern in two groups with a significant (p < 0.0001) correlation between groups. Four heritable traits, namely plant height, biological yield, number of tillers, and awn length, determined the phenotypic structure of the populations. The two populations collected at 23 years distance, diverged in two distinctive phenotypic structure categories; a conserved structure and an evolved structure with a reduction in the phenotypic trait diversity in the population collected in 2014. These results reveal the value of combining phenotypic and environmental data to understand the evolution and adaptation of the population to climate change over a long period and the consequences on the wild progenitor of cultivated barley collection to avoid loss of genetic materials.
Comparison of Perioperative Outcomes in Open and Laparoscopic Radical Cystectomy with Modified Ureterosigmoidostomy (MainzII): A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Zhang Bin , He Yang , Zheng Duo , Liu Junyao , Qi Peng , Han Dali , Yue Zhongjin , Shang Panfeng
Published: August 2021

Background: To analyze perioperative conditions and long-term efficacy of open modified ureterosigmoidostomy urinary diversion (OMUUD) in patients with bladder cancer who underwent open radical cystectomy (ORC) and laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC).Methods: In this retrospective study, the clinical data of patients who underwent open and laparoscopic radical cystectomy plus open modified ureterosigmoidostomy urinary diversion in our hospital were collected from January 2011 to December 2019. In addition, perioperative data of 56 patients who underwent ORC and OMUUD were compared with those of 118 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) plus OMUUD. A long-term follow-up was performed to compare the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rate between the two groups.Results: Results showed that there was no significant difference between ORC+OMUUD group and LRC+OMUUD group in terms of gender, age, body index, pre-operative ASA grade, history of transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) before surgery, tumor T stage, lymph node dissection range, pathological grade, and positive postoperative surgical margin. The mean operation time in the open group was shorter than that in the laparoscopic group （P<0.001）. Moreover, the estimated intraoperative blood loss（P<0.001）and postoperative hospital stay（P=0.023）were better in the laparoscopic group than in the open group. The incidence of complications between 30 days (P=0.665) and 90 days (P=0.211) time-points after surgery was not significantly different. Similarly, the OS (P=0.237) and PFS (P=0.307) between the two groups were comparable.Conclusion: This study shows that the LRC group has long operation time, but less estimated intraoperative blood loss, short postoperative hospital stay, small trauma, and fast postoperative recovery compared to open surgery. Moreover, the incidence of complications at 30 - and 90-days postoperation, as well as the OS and PFS is not different between laparoscopy and open surgery.
Cost-Utility Analysis of Percutaneous and Surgery Methods in Extraction of Cardiac Leads Infection
Authors: shaker zinab , Barooni Mohsen , Mahani Asma Saber , Shaker Zohreh
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are currently major concern in the world and It is expected that Until 2030, 7 out of 10 deaths in world will be related to cardiovascular diseases. Despite the increase in Pasemaker and ICD implants in recent years, the complications of this devices are increasing. One of the most important complications is the pulsating lead infection. The purpose of this study was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of percutaneous and surgical method in extracting pacemaker leads with Qaly index.Methods: In this cross-sectional article (descriptive-analytical) using the Markov model, for compare the two methods of percutaneous and surgery for infectious lead. Sampling was census and ( sample size for percutaneous included 57 people) and information about utility was extracted by the SAQ questionnaire. A systematic review was performed to calculate utility of the surgical Cost from the perspective of the service provider. data analysis by SPSS software, and TreeAge software was used for Markov modeland and sensitivity analysis .Results: Changes in quality of life score in both intervention were incremental and significant and intervention is the only effective factor in changes in quality of life score (P <0.05). The ICER was 5470.44$.Conclusion: The results of the study show that utility and cost of surgery are higher than the percutaneous method.Sensitivity analysis shows If the cost of surgery increases more than 806.52$ (discount rate of 0.06), the percutaneous method dominates the surgery method.
Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture by Precise Injection and Staged Perfusion of Bone Cement Kyphoplasty: A Comparison Study
Authors: Huang Jian , Huang Jun , Chen Ming , Zhou Zongbo , Lu Zhifu , Fu Chuangong
Published: August 2021

Study design: Retrospective cohort study.Objective: To explore the clinical effect of precise injection and staged perfusion of bone cement kyphoplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture.Methods: 110 patients treated with kyphoplasty from January 2020 to June 2021 were selected and divided into experimental group (n = 55) and control group (n = 55) according to different surgical methods. The experimental group was treated with precise injection and staged perfusion of bone cement kyphoplasty, while the control group was treated with traditional kyphoplasty. The operation time,intraoperative blood loss and amount of bone cement injection were recorded. The pain improvement was evaluated by VAS score. The operation effect were evaluated by anterior height of injured vertebral body, middle height of injured vertebral body, wedge angle of injured vertebral body and distribution grade of bone cement. The incidence of surgical complications was evaluated by the number of bone cement leakage.Results: There were no significant difference in the operation time, intraoperative blood loss and the amount of bone cement injection in two groups. There were no significant difference in VAS scores at 2h, 4h and 48h after operation between the two groups (P > 0.05); There were no significant difference in the ratio of anterior height of injured vertebral body between the two groups on the third day after operation and the last follow-up (P > 0.05); There were no significant difference in the ratio of middle height of injured vertebral body between the two groups on the third day after operation and the last follow-up (P > 0.05); There were no significant difference in wedge angle of injured vertebral body between the two groups at the third day after operation and the last follow-up (P > 0.05). There was significant difference in the distribution grade of bone cement between the two groups (P < 0.01); There was significant difference in the number of bone cement leakage between the two groups (P < 0.01), In cases of bone cement leakage, there were 1 case of type C, 1 case of type S in the experimental group, 7 cases of type C and 2 cases of type S in the control group.Conclusion: Precise injection and staged perfusion of bone cement kyphoplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture can effectively reduce surgical complications and improve surgical efficacy.