bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A community-based distrust-aware computational trust model for online social networks
Authors: Kondori Marzie Rowshanmaram , Ashtiani Mehrdad
Published: October 2022

Trust calculation is an important aspect of social networks research which acts as the main pillar of the network’s existence. The research conducted in this domain still faces unsolved challenges that should be tackled to improve the accuracy of the results. One of these challenges is the cold start problem which we aim to reduce. We have achieved this goal by reducing the dependency of the trust calculation metrics on the links between two individual nodes. We calculate the trust score toward a node without the existence of a link between the trustor and a trustee according to individual characteristics and similarity factors. The consideration of both trust and distrust criteria in the model has resulted in higher accuracy and precision. The network is transformed into communities with nodes having similar subject interests by using topic modeling. The accuracy of the model presented in this research is not reduced despite the low number of communication edges. It has been shown in the evaluations that the mean absolute error of the trust calculations is about 0.01 even with the reduction of 90% of the edges. Hence, the model presented in this research is robust against the edge sparsity of the network. The proposed model is compared with notable current works namely the GCR method and the method presented by Akilal et al. Based on the average absolute error criterion, with a reduction of 90% of the edges, the accuracy of the proposed model shows a 98% increase compared to the GCR method and 96% increase compared to the Akilal et al.’s proposed method.
Lipid Nanoparticle Mediated Delivery of Docetaxel Prodrug for Exploiting Full Potential of Gold Radiosensitizers in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer.
Authors: Alhussan Abdulaziz , Jackson Nolan , Eaton Sarah , Santos Nancy Dos , Barta Ingrid , Zaifman Josh , Chen Sam , Tam Yuen Yi C. , Krishnan Sunil , Chithrani Devika B.
Published: October 2022

Background
Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. Current chemoradiation therapy suffers from normal tissue toxicity. To overcome this problem, we are proposing incorporating nanoparticles as radiosensitizers and as drug delivery vehicles into current chemoradiation regimes. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and Docetaxel (DTX) have shown very promising synergetic radiosensitization effects despite DTX toxicity to normal tissues. Here, we explored the effect of DTX prodrug encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPDTX−P) on GNP uptake in pancreatic cancer models in vitro and in vivo.
Methods
For the in vitro experiment, pancreatic cancer cell line, MIA PaCa-2, were cultured and dosed with 7.5 µg/mL of GNPs (of ~ 11 nm in diameter functionalized with PEG and RGD peptide) and with 45 nM of free DTX or equivalent dose of LNPDTX−P. For the in vivo experiment, MIA PaCa-2 were implanted subcutaneously in NRG mice and the mice were dosed with 2 mg/kg of GNPs and 6 mg/kg of DTX or equivalent dose of LNPDTX−P. GNPs content in mice and in cells were measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma–Mass Spectrometry (ICP–MS).
Results
The results show that LNPDTX−P treated tumour samples have no less than 191% increase in GNPs uptake compared to control samples in both in vitro and in vivo. The results also show that LNPDTX−P treated tumour samples have retained over 160% of GNPs compared to control samples in both in vitro and in vivo. No significant difference was found in GNP uptake or retention between free DTX and LNPDTX−P in tumour treated samples in vivo.
Conclusions
The results are very promising as LNPDTX−P have superior targeting of tumour tissues compared to free DTX due to their nano size and their ability to be functionalized. Because of their minimal toxicity to normal tissues, both GNPs and LNPDTX−P can be ideal radiosensitization candidates in radiotherapy and would produce very promising synergistic therapeutic outcome. Current radiotherapy treatments can hugely benefit from the effects of these two radiosensitizers boosting the radiation dose to the tumour while reducing the normal tissue dose. This in return will improve patient outcome and quality of life.
Early porosity generation in organic-sulfur-rich mudstones
Authors: Knapp Levi J. , Ardakani Omid H. , Reyes Julito , Ishikawa Kazuaki
Published: October 2022

High organic sulfur (Sorg) content (i.e., Type IIS kerogen) is well known to significantly influence kerogen transformation but the effect of Sorg content on organic porosity evolution has rarely and indirectly been investigated. This study demonstrates that organic porosity is generated at lower thermal maturity in mudstones containing Type IIS kerogen relative to those with Type II kerogen. The implications of this work are relevant for the characterization of organic-rich mudstones as cap rocks, unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs, and disposal reservoirs for CO2 or nuclear waste because pore systems control storage volumes and matrix fluid flow. Five thermally immature core samples were selected from three organic-rich mudstone units. In order of increasing Sorg content, the studied formations were the Late Devonian Duvernay Formation (Canada), middle late Miocene Onnagawa Formation (Japan), and early Jurassic Gordondale member of the Fernie Formation (Canada). Hydrous pyrolysis was used to artificially mature splits of the immature samples to 4 maturity stages, upon which petrophysical and organic geochemical properties were measured and compared to baseline immature samples.
Association of Rahnella victoriana, Enterobacter hormaechei subsp. hoffmannii and Citrobacter braakii with walnut decline in Iran
Authors: Haji-Ali-Gol Mohammad-Reza , Charkhabi Nargues Falahi , Shahryari Fatemeh , Sarikhani Saadat
Published: October 2022

Persian walnut (Juglans regia) has a considerable economic importance worldwide. However, the vigor and vitality of walnut trees have been heavily affected by bark canker during the last few years. Irregular longitudinal cankers in the outer bark, stem tissue necrosis, bleeding with black-colored exudates and dark lesions in the inner bark of walnut trees have been observed in Kermanshah, Hamedan, Markazi, Alborz, Isfahan, Qom, Semnan, and Razavi Khorasan provinces in western, central and eastern Iran during 2018 and 2019. Therefore in order to identification of bacteria associated with walnut decline, a total of 150 symptomatic samples were collected from affected walnut trees. Two-hundred sixty strains with a metallic green sheen were isolated on EMB-agar medium. The pathogenicity of strains was proved by inoculating a suspension of the bacterial strains under the bark of immature walnut fruits cv. ‘Hartley’. Ninety-five strains caused necrosis and a dark-colored region in the mesocarp around the inoculation site 14 days post-inoculation. Moreover, 12 representative strains induced necrotic and black-colored tissues in the bark of young green branches of two-year old walnut seedling cv. ‘Chandler’. The strains were classified into four categories based on conventional phenotypic characters confirmed with the 16S rRNA gene sequences. A phylogenetic tree based on the concatenated sequences of two housekeeping gene fragments, gyrB (601 bp) and infB (615 bp), indicated that strains including I1, Q6, and S6 were grouped in a cluster with G. quercinecans FBR97T as well as strains I2, I5, and KE6 were clustered with Rahnella victoriana FRB 225T. Moreover, strains MR1, MR3, and MR5 were grouped with the E. hormaechei subsp. hoffmannii DSM 14563T. Phylogenetic analyses based on partial sequencing of housekeeping genes including fusA (633 bp), pyrG (305), and leuS (640 bp) revealed that KH1, KH3, and KH7 strains belong to C. braakii species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of C. braakii and E. hormaechei as plant pathogens and R. victoriana associated with walnut decline.
Classification of a Two-Class ECG Dataset Based on Perceptron Learning in a Cortical Pyramidal Neuron Model
Authors: Bozkır İlknur Kayıkçıoğlu , Özcan Zübeyir , Köse Cemal , Kayıkçıoğlu Temel
Published: October 2022

Pyramidal cells are the most prevalent neuronal type in the cortex, receiving thousands of synaptic inputs from all over the brain, and sending the largest axon outputs. They have a variety of active conductivities and complex morphologies that support highly nonlinear dendritic calculations. There has been a growing interest in understanding the classification abilities of pyramidal neurons. The perceptron learning algorithm, one of the foundations of machine learning, uses the highly simplified mathematical abstraction of a neuron, and it is unclear to what extent real biophysical neurons can perform perceptron like learning. In this article, we investigated the performance of a pyramidal neuron model in the classification problem of a two-class ECG dataset for different synaptic regions by using the perceptron learning method. The main purpose of this study is to reveal what role the soma, basilar and apical dendrites play in a classification problem. We concluded that when the synaptic receptor locations are selected close to the soma, classification performance close to the single layer perceptron can be obtained. The results indicated that the pyramidal neuron can successfully classify real-world data.
WRF Gray-Zone Dynamical Downscaling over the Tibetan Plateau during 1999- 2019: Model Performance and Added Value
Authors: Zhou Peifeng , Shao Min , Ma Mengnan , Ou Tinghai , Tang Jianping
Published: October 2022

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) is an important component of the global climate system, while the characteristics of its climate is poorly represented in most regional climate models at coarse resolutions. In this study, a 20-year (2000-2019) dynamical downscaling simulation at the gray-zone resolution (9 km) using the WRF model driven by the ERA5 reanalysis is conducted over the TP. Based on comparison against in-situ observations and the Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) version 6 satellite precipitation product, the assessment of basic climate variables, such as near-surface air temperature (T2m) and precipitation, is performed to evaluate model’s performance and understand its added value better. Results show that both WRF and ERA5 can successfully reproduce the spatial patterns of annual mean and seasonal mean surface air temperature. However, significant cold and wet biases are found especially over the southeastern TP in ERA5, which are greatly improved in WRF with reduced RMSEs. Not only the climatological characteristics, but also the inter-annual variability and seasonal variation of T2m and precipitation are well captured by WRF which reduces the cold and wet biases especially in winter and summer compared to ERA5, respectively. Besides, at daily scale, the overestimation of precipitation in WRF and ERA5 is mainly caused by the overestimated precipitation frequency when precipitation intensity changed slightly. Furthermore, WRF outperforms ERA5 in capturing the diurnal variation of precipitation with more realistic peak time in all sub-regions over the TP. Further investigation into the mechanism of model bias reveals that less simulated snow cover fraction plays a crucial role in increasing the surface net energy by affecting surface albedo over the southeastern TP in WRF, leading to higher T2m. In addition, less water vapor transport from the southern boundary of TP leads to reduced wet bias in WRF, indicating that the added value in dynamical downscaling at gray-zone resolution is obtained by representing water vapor transport more realistically.
Quantum optimal control for Pauli operators based on spin-1/2 system
Authors: Li Jinfang , Xin Zixuan , Hu Jieru , He Dongshan
Published: October 2022

Quantum control is an important basis for quantum computing, quantum com-munication and quantum simulation. The key of quantum control is to realize quantum logicoperators with high fidelity. In this paper, based on spin-1/2 system, the optimal simulationof three Pauli logic operators is carried out by using quantum optimal control theory. Under Pauli z spin-presentation, the results show that under the given quantum initial state, the Pauli operators achieve the expected target quantum state with a high fidelity of 0.9999. When the control pulse is applied on x-axis, the number of iterations required to optimize Pauli x operator to achieve the target state is the least, and the number of iterations requiredto optimize Pauli z operator is the most. In addition, the comparison shows that when thefidelity reach 0.9999, the population of the quantum final state can reach the ideal theoreti-cal expectation. Besides, the optimization fidelity of Hadamard gate can also reaches 0.9999 based on spin-1/2 system. Finally, the study on the phase evolution of quantum states showsthat the phase difference between the initial and final quantum states of optimized Pauli xand Pauli z logic operator is π/2, and there is no phase difference between the final quantumstate and the initial quantum state after the evolution of optimized Pauli y operator.
Effects of specific feedback based on an in-depth assessment tool for communication skills training in occupational therapy interns
Authors: Chen Tzu-Ting , Huang Yi-Jing , Chen Chyi-Rong , Hsu Chih-Wei , Huang Sheau-Ling , Hsieh Ching-Lin
Published: October 2022

Specific feedback is considered an important strategy in communication skills training (CST). However, the effects of specific feedback on CST have not been comprehensively investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of specific feedback based on an in-depth assessment tool for CST (CST-SF) on occupational therapy interns’ communication skills (CS). A one-group pre-test and post-test study design was conducted. Thirty-six interns received the CST-SF and completed three interviews with different patients. After the interviews, clinical instructors provided interns brief feedback based on the Gap-Kalamazoo Communication Skills Assessment Form (GKCSAF) and experts gave specific feedback based on the Communication Skills Measure for Therapists. The first and last interviews were assessed by clinical instructors, interns, and patients using the GKCSAF, and were then rated by experts based on the transcripts. The differences in first and last interview GKCSAF scores were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results indicated that the interns significantly improved in terms of total scores and the scores of four CS domains in the GKCSAF: “builds a relationship,” “gathers information,” “shares information,” and “provides closure” (p < 0.05), with small to medium effect sizes (r = 0.29 to 0.37). The clinical instructors and interns both reported significant improvements in the scores of two CS domains: “gathers information” and “provides closure,” but the patients reported no significant change in the interns’ CS. The CST-SF could impact the CS of occupational therapy interns, especially in the four aforementioned CS domains.
Exhaustive Drainage versus Fixed-time Drainage for Chronic Subdural Hematoma after One-burr Hole Craniostomy (ECHO): Study Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Liang , Ou Yunwei , Zhu Bingcheng , Guo Xufei , Yu Xiaofan , Xu Long , Li Jinping , Feng Enshan , Li Huaqing , Wang Xiaodong , Chen Huaqun , Sun Zhaosheng , Liu Zaofu , Yang Dawei , Zhang Hongbing , Liu Zhigang , Tang Jie , Zhao Shangfeng , Zhang Guobin , Yao Jiemin , Ma Dongming , Sun Zelin , Zhou Hui , Liu Baiyun , Liu Weiming
Published: October 2022

Background

Chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) are one of the most common neurosurgical conditions. The standard surgical technique includes burr-hole craniostomy, followed by intraoperative irrigation and placement of subdural closed-system drainage. The drainage is generally removed after 48 hours, which can be described as fixed-time drainage strategy. According to literature, the recurrence rate is 5–33% with this strategy. In our retrospective study, postoperative hematoma volume was found to significantly increase the risk of recurrence. Based on these results, an exhaustive drainage strategy is conducted to minimize postoperative hematoma volume and achieve a low recurrence rate and good outcomes.

Methods

This is a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial designed to include 304 participants over the age of 18–90 years presenting with a symptomatic CSDH verified on cranial computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Participants will be randomly allocated to perform exhaustive drainage (treatment group) or fixed-time drainage (control group) after one-burr hole craniostomy. The primary endpoint will be recurrence indicating a reoperation within 6 months.

Discussion

This study will validate the effect and safety of exhaustive drainage after one-burr hole craniostomy in reducing recurrence rates and provide critical information to improve CSDH surgical management.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04573387. Registered on October 5, 2020. (https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04573387.)
Alpha-synuclein-specific regulatory T cells ameliorate Parkinson’s disease progression in mice
Authors: Park Seon-Young , Yang HyeJin , Go Hyemin , Kim Hongsung , Bae Hyunsu
Published: October 2022

Background
Parkinson’s disease is a long-term neurodegenerative disease characterized by dopaminergic neuronal loss and the aggregation of alpha-synuclein in the brain. Cell therapy using regulatory T cells has therapeutic potential on Parkinson’s progression in a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine-induced mouse model; however, several challenges were associated with its applications. Polyclonal regulatory T cells can move to sites other than the disease loci and cause undesirable suppression. Moreover, the efficiency of regulatory T cells is reduced during the expansion process, accompanied by phenotypic changes. Here, we propose a strategy for regulatory T cell expansion using alpha-synuclein and bee venom phospholipase A2.
Methods
We presented alpha-synuclein to T cells via dendritic cells following bee venom phospholipase A2 treatment and analyzed their phenotype and mobility. These regulatory T cells were transferred to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine-induced Parkinson’s mouse model. First, we measured motor function using pole test. Next, we examined the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, alpha-synuclein, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1, and nitric oxide synthase 2 in the substantia nigra by immunohistostaining. The mRNA expression related to neuroinflammation was measured using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.
Results
Our method increased the mobility of regulatory T cells towards the site of abundant alpha-synuclein in vitro and in vivo. Alpha-synuclein-specific bee venom phospholipase A2-treated regulatory T cells showed noteworthy neuroprotective effects against motor function deficits, dopaminergic neuronal loss, and alpha-synuclein accumulation in the Parkinson's mouse model. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of alpha-synuclein-specific bee venom phospholipase A2-treated regulatory T cells exerted immunosuppressive effects on activated microglia, especially pro-inflammatory microglia, in Parkinson’s mice.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that the combination of alpha-synuclein and bee venom phospholipase A2 may provide a significant improvement in neuroprotective activities of regulatory T cells and suggest the effective clinical application of T cell therapy in Parkinson’s.
The nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 participates in morphine-induced autophagy
Authors: Huang Xin , Feng Yue , Deji Cuola , Yan Xinyue , Bai Yuying , Wei Shuguang
Published: October 2022

Morphine is an important potent analgesic which has many side effects such as addiction. Studies have demonstrated that autophagy play an important role during morphine addiction especially in morphine withdrawal. However, the molecular basis of morphine-induced autophagy has been not fully elucidated. The nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a well-known transcription factor that plays a critical role in antioxidation and even autophagy, furthermore, previous study showed that it increased in the frontal cortex and striatum of the mice which suffering from morphine withdrawal, indicating that NRF2 may involve in morphine addiction. In the present study, we aim to clarify the role of NRF2 in morphine-induced autophagy in vitro. Our results showed morphine could significantly increase the expression of NRF2 and further induce autophagy in SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, pretreatment of NRF2 inhibitor could reverse the upregulation of NRF2 and autophagy after morphine administration, indicating NRF2 play a key role in morphine-induced autophagy. Interestingly, we found NRF2 was also regulated by autophagy because pretreated with 3-Methyladenine after morphine administration significantly increased the expression of NRF2. In conclusion, our study revealed a critical role of NRF2 in morphine-induced autophagy and the feedback effect of autophagy on NRF2.
Quadruplet expanded DNA (QED) genetic code for eukaryotic cells**
Authors: Singh Rama Shankar
Published: October 2022

Human cells are eukaryotic cells carrying hereditary genes encoded by DNA that are translated into proteins required for maintaining healthy homeostatic conditions. Gene mutations yield dysfunctional proteins causing diseases such as rare monogenic diseases and multigenic cancers. No cure exists for rare diseases except for managing the symptoms and cancers with a goal of a 5-year life extension. The well-accepted triplet genetic code does not apply to eukaryotes. The alternative orthogonally expanded genetic code fails to synthesize proteins using canonical amino acids. Here the new quadruplet expanded DNA (QED) genetic coding for eukaryotic cells overcoming these limitations is presented. The QED codon comprised all four DNA bases (T, C, A, and G); the code is position-independent and symmetric, and adjacent bases forming complementarity pairs naturally do not promote polypeptide formation. The resulting 256 quadruplets fall into two groups: 20 nondegenerate, independent, unique codons encoding 20 canonical amino acids and 35 nondegenerate, independent, unique noncoding codons regulating and controlling, including transcription and splicing. The resulting new protein-coding and noncoding QED codon tables are generated. Finally, steps to correct dysfunctional proteins are described, anticipating a strategy for developing cures for rare diseases and multigenic cancers.

** PATENT PENDING
An Exploratory Factor Analysis of the Oblique Hope, Affectivity, Resiliency, and Empathy (O-HARE) Questionnaire
Authors: Wahl Kevin
Published: October 2022

An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to evaluate a 54-item experimental questionnaire called the Oblique Hope, Affectivity, Resiliency, and Empathy (O-HARE). The sample was N = 181 adults in the United States who have experienced mental health concerns during their lifetime. Individuals were randomly assigned to a control condition (n = 95) and experimental condition (n = 86). Three instruments were administered online, O-HARE, NEO Five-Factor Inventory, and the Personality Assessment Screener. There was no significant effect size between the two conditions (d = .212). Factor loading using a Promax principal component rotation with coefficient's suppressed (< 0.40) indicated the O-HARE had a significant KMO = 89.8, p = .001 on 12 factors. The EFA produced low factor loadings for 18 items, a reduction to 36 items on seven factors increased the KMO = 92.3, p = .001. The four O-HARE domains had significant t-scores with p values < .001. ANOVA demonstrated a strong relationship between the NEO-FFI-3, O-HARE, and PAS subscales. The t-scores were significant, with p values < .001 on all NEO-FFI-3 dimensions and PAS subscales.
Museum specimens shedding light on the evolutionary history and hidden diversity of the hedgehog family Erinaceidae
Authors: Zeng Ying , He Kai , Chen Xing , Bai Weipeng , Lin Hongzhou , Chen Jianhai , Nedyalkov Nedko , Yamaguchi Nobuyuki , Vijayan Keerthy , Suganthasakthivel Ramamoorthy , Kumar Brawin , Han Yuqing , Chen Zhongzheng , Wang Wenzhi , Liu Yang
Published: October 2022

The family of Erinaceidae comprises 26 extant species in the subfamily Erinaceinae of spiny hedgehogs and the subfamily Galericinae of silky-furred gymnures and moonrats. These animals inhabit various habitats from tropical forests to deserts in Eurasia and Africa. Previous studies hinted that species diversity was likely underestimated. Moreover, erinaceids are among the oldest known living placental mammals originating more than 60 million years ago. The rich fossil records represent both living subfamilies and an extinct subfamily Brachyericinae. Comprehensive understanding of evolutionary history and taxonomic diversity is hampered by the unavailability of samples and the incorporation of molecular and morphological data. Here, we sequenced mitochondrial genomes from museum specimens and morphological data to reconstruct the genealogical relationships of Erinaceidae. Our results finely resolved interspecific relationships of living species and unveiled underestimated species diversity not only in Hylomys as revealed in previous studies, also in Neotetracus gymnures and Atelerix, Hemiechinus, and Paraechinus hedgehogs. The two extinct subfamilies, Brachyericinae and Erinaceinae were supported as sister taxa. There is a hint of a close relationship between fossil Galerix and Southeast Asian Hylomys. These findings highlight the potentiality of museomics but also found an overestimation of divergence times using mitogenomes as revealed in previous studies.
mtRBP complex AMG-1/SLRP-1 mediates germline development and spermatogenesis by maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Qiushi , Chen Lianwan , Cao Zheng , Zhao Hailian , Su Ruibao , Wang Ning , Ma Xiaojing , Shan Jin , Chen Xinyan , Zhang Qi , Du Baochen , Yuan Zhiheng , Zhao Yanmei , Zhang Xiaorong , Guo Xuejiang , Xue Yuanchao , Miao Long
Published: October 2022

The RNA-binding proteins (RBPs)-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of pre-existing mRNAs is essential for spermatogenesis. But the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we identify a germline-specific mitochondrial RBP AMG-1, a homolog of mammalian LRPPRC, required for spermatogenesis in C. elegans. amg-1 mutation leads to the germline-specific mitochondrial dysfunctions associated with aberrant mitochondrial morphology and structure, which eventually hinders germline development without affecting somatic development. We demonstrate that AMG-1 most frequently binds to mitochondrial DNA-encoded 16S and 12S ribosomal RNAs, the essential components of mitochondrial ribosome, and that 12S rRNA expression mediated by AMG-1 is crucial for germline mitochondrial protein homeostasis. Besides, mitochondrial dysfunction caused by AMG-1 mutation triggers sperm apoptosis in C. elegans. Furthermore, SLRP-1, the homolog of mammalian SLIRP in C. elegans, interacts with AMG-1 genetically to regulate germline development and reproductive success. Taken together, these findings reveal the novel function of a mitochondrial RBP in specifically regulating germline development.
Optimal breastfeeding practice and associated factors among infants aged less than six months in Boke district, eastern Ethiopia: community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Adem Hassen Abdi , Ahmed Jemal Husein , Usso Ahmedin Aliyi , Baraki Nega , Mesfin Firehiwot
Published: October 2022

Background: Optimal breastfeeding is one of the best and cost-effective strategic interventions to prevent and reduce child death. Globally, it prevents 13% of childhood death, yearly. Few previous studies addressed the levels of domains of optimal breastfeeding practice separately, more emphasized the practice of urban-dwellers and employee mothers’ infants and focused on the practice of infants aged 6-24 months. This study assessed optimal breastfeeding practice and associated factors among infants aged 0-6 months in Boke district in rural eastern Ethiopia.
Method: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 390 randomly selected mother-infant pairs from February 01-30, 2018. Pretested-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from mother-infant pairs. Data were entered using EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 24. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with optimal breastfeeding practice. P-value<0.05 and AOR (95% CI) were used to report significance and association, respectively.
Results: Optimal breastfeeding practice among infants aged 0-6 months was 55.9% (95%CI: 50.7%, 60.8%). Mothers’ age of 15-24 years (AOR=3.58, 95%CI: 1.06, 11.95) and 25-34 years (AOR=3.49, 95%CI: 1.08, 11.28), having formal education (AOR=2.98, 95%CI: 1.92, 4.62), facility delivery (AOR=1.96, 95%CI: 1.24, 3.12) and good knowledge about breastfeeding (AOR=1.82, 95%CI: 1.16, 2.86) significantly associated with optimal breastfeeding practice.
Conclusions: Prevalence of optimal breastfeeding practice among infants of 0-6 months was low. Youth maternal age, institutional delivery and knowledge on breastfeeding were significant predictors of optimal breastfeeding practice. Promoting institutional delivery and enhancing maternal awareness about breastfeeding practice through existing healthcare services, formal education and Media-outlets would be essential to improve to prevent and reduce the burden of suboptimal breastfeeding practice in the communities.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the structure of radiation diagnostics and collective doses of the population of the Russian Federation under medical irradiation in 2020
Authors: Popova А. Yu. , Vodovatov A. V. , Romanovich I. K. , Ryzhov S. A. , Druzhinina P. S. , Akhmatdinov R. R.
Published: October 2022

Computed tomography has become the main method of early diagnostics of COVID-19 during the pandemic of the novel coronavirus infection. Based on results of computed tomography of the chest it is possible to diagnose viral pneumonia associated with COVIS-19, to quickly assess the lung damage volume and severity of changes, to perform quick routing of patients and to start antiviral treatment. Hence, 2020 was associated with a rapid increase in the number of computed tomography examinations with corresponding changes in the structure of X-ray diagnostics. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the impact of the pandemic of the novel coronavirus infection on the structure of X-ray diagnostics and collective doses from medical exposure in the Russian Federation in 2019-2020. The study was based on the results of analysis of the federal state statistical surveillance forms №3-DOZ and №30 as well as on the data on Covid-19 morbidity in the regions of the Russian Federation. The results of the study indicate that there were no significant changes in the structure of X-ray diagnostics in 2020 compared to 2019 except for the increase in the number of computed tomography examinations. Their contribution to the total number of X-ray examinations has increased to 8,2% in 2020 compared to 4,6% in 2019. Contribution of other imaging modalities to the total number of X-ray examinations has not changed significantly. In 2020 the number of X-ray examinations decreased by 20% in average, varying from 6% for diagnostic nuclear medicine to 42% for interventional examinations. At the same time, the number of computed tomography examinations has rapidly increased by 60%. The structure of collective dose from medical exposure has significantly changed in 2020. Contribution of computed tomography to the collective dose in 2020 accounted for to 74% compared to 57% in 2019. Contribution of other imaging modalities has decreased by the factor of 1,5-2. Contribution of radiography examinations has decreased to 10,5% compared to 19% in 2019. Collective doses have correspondingly decreased by 20-30% for all imaging modalities except for computed tomography. Collective dose from computed tomography has increased by 71% compared to 2019. The number of all X-ray examinations in the Russian Federation has decreased by 12%: from 294 million in 2019 to 258 million in 2020. Collective dose from medical exposure has rapidly increased in 2020 by 30% to 115 thousand man. -Sv compared to 88 thousand man. -Sv in 2019. In average, in regions of the Russian Federation in 2020 each second computed tomography examination has been performed as a part of COVID-19 diagnostics with 2,3 computed tomography examinations per person infected with COVID.
Is modified constraint-induced movement therapy effective in improving motor performance in patients with hemiplegia?
Authors: SAHİN Emre , AKDENİZ LEBLEBİCİER Merve , SARACOGLU İsmail , ÖZLÜ Aysun
Published: October 2022

Aim: To investigate the effect of modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) on upper extremity motor recovery, performance, and functional independence in addition to conventional rehabilitation in stroke patients.Methods: The study included 40 participants, including 20 chronic stroke cases in the intervention group (IG) (64.45±9.18 years) and 20 chronic stroke cases in the control group (CG) (64.45±9.18 years) who met the selection criteria. IG received mCIMT with regular physiotherapy, while CG received only regular physiotherapy. The patients were evaluated with the Motor Activity Log-28 (MAL-28), the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Scale (FMUES) before treatment, immediately after treatment (post-treatment), and at three months after treatment (follow-up).Results: The MAL-28 and FIM scores significantly increased in both groups compared with the baseline values after treatment and at the third-month follow-up (p<0.05). After treatment and at the third-month follow-up, the FMUES scores significantly increased in both groups compared with the baseline values (p<0.001).Conclusion: This study showed that mCIMT added to conventional therapy improved upper extremity motor function, performance, and functional independence in chronic stroke patients; however, mCIMT had no additional benefit to conventional therapy.
Effects of chronic administration of thymoquinone on penicillin induced epileptiform activity in rats
Authors: BEYAZÇİÇEK Ersin , AVCİ Duru Aslıhan , BEYAZÇİÇEK Özge
Published: October 2022

Aim: Thymoquinone (TQ) is derived from Nigella Sativa (NS) which is a traditional medicinal plant used as a spice, and medication in traditional medicine. This study aims to investigate the chronic effects of TQ, which has been shown anticancer, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, on experimental penicillin-induced epilepsy models in rats.Methods: Forty-nine adult male Wistar rats were used in this study. The rats were divided into 7 groups as; sham (S), control (penicillin, CONT), diazepam (DZM), 10 mg/kg TQ (TQ10), 50 mg/kg TQ (TQ50), 10 mg/kg TQ+DZM (TQ10+DZM) and 50 mg/kg TQ+DZM (TQ50+DZM). TQ was administered intraperitoneally for 21 days. Epileptiform activity (EA) was initiated by intracortical administration of penicillin. Electrocorticographic (ECoG) data obtained from the recordings were analyzed. The latency, frequency, and amplitude of EA waves were analyzed statistically.Results: There was no EA in the sham group. However, it was observed that the first spike-wave latency increased significantly in TQ10 and TQ50 groups compared to the CONT group. Except for some time periods, there was no significant difference between the groups according to spike-wave frequency, and spike-wave amplitude. Conclusion: It was observed that the application of chronic thymoquinone on the experimental penicillin-induced EA model in rats did not affect the frequency and amplitude of spike-wave representing epileptic seizures. However, TQ was found to prolong the latency of the first EA.
Cell Entry and Unusual Replication of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: McCann Nathan , Castellino Francis J.
Published: October 2022

Background:

SARS-CoV-2 is the causative virus for the CoVID-19 pandemic that has frequently mutated to continue to infect and resist available vaccines. Emerging new variants of the virus have complicated notions of immunity conferred by vaccines versus immunity that results from infection. While we continue to progress from epidemic to endemic as a result of this collec-tive immunity, the pandemic remains a morbid and mortal problem.

Objective:

The SARS-CoV-2 virus has a very complex manner of replication. The spike protein, one of the four structural proteins of the encapsulated virus, is central to the ability of the virus to penetrate cells to replicate. The objective of this review is to summarize these complex features of viral replication.

Methods:

A review of the recent literature was performed on the biology of SARS-CoV-2 infection from published work from PubMed and works reported to preprint servers, e.g., bioRxiv and medRxiv.

Results and Conclusion:

The complex molecular and cellular biology involved in SARS-CoV-2 replication and the origination of >30 proteins from a single open reading frame (ORF) have been summarized, as well as the structural biology of spike protein, a critical factor in the cellular entry of the virus, which is a necessary feature for it to replicate and cause disease.
PVA Based Nanofiber Containing GO Modified with Cu Nanoparticles
and Loaded Curcumin; High Antibacterial Activity with Acceleration
Wound Healing
Authors: Ajalli Narges , Pourmadadi Mehrab , Yazdian Fatemeh , Abdouss Majid , Rashedi Hamid , Rahdar Abbas
Published: October 2022

Background:

The skin is one of the most essential organs of the body that plays a vital role.
Protecting the skin from damage is a critical challenge. Therefore, the ideal wound dressing that has
antibacterial, mechanical, biodegradable, and non-toxic properties can protect the skin against injury
and accelerate and heal the wound.

Objective:

In this study, a nano-wound dressing is designed for the first time. This work is aimed to
optimize and act as a dressing to speed up the wound healing process.

Methods:

Graphene Oxide (GO) was produced by the hummer method. In the next step, GO-copper
(Cu) nanohybrid was prepared, then GO-Cu -Curcumin (Cur) nanohybrid was synthesized. Using the
electrospinning method, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/GO-Cu -Cur were spun, and finally, related analyses
were performed to investigate the properties and synthesized chemicals.

Results:

The results showed that the nanocomposite was synthesized correctly, and the diameter of the
nanofibers was 328 nm. The use of PVA improved the mechanical properties. In addition, the wound
dressing had biodegradable, antimicrobial, and non-toxic properties. The results of the scratch test and
animal model showed that this nanocomposite accelerated wound healing and after 14 days showed
92.25% wound healing.

Conclusion:

The synthesized nanocomposite has the individual properties and characteristics of an ideal
wound dressing and replaces traditional methods for wound healing.
Effect of Sickle Cell Trait on Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection
Authors: Okpala Iheanyi , Chukwuka Chinwe , Nouraie Seyed , Nekhai Sergei , Onwuka Chima , Hezekiah Isa , Obodo Onochie , Maisamari Deborah , Okereke Kelechi , Oden Ajake , Tanko Yohanna , Ezekekwu Chinedu , Kwaghi Vivian , Onyedum Cajetan , Nnodu Obiageli
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Whereas several studies show that homozygous (HbSS) sickle cell disease protects against human immunodeficiency virus infection, it is not clear if human immunodeficiency virus infection is affected by the heterozygous state of the sickle globin gene (HbAS or sickle cell trait).

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of sickle cell trait on the prevalence and severity of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection in a large patient population.

Methods:

Hemoglobin genotype was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in 1,226 HIV-1 patients in Nigeria. Their demographic data were documented. Blood CD4+ cell counts and HIV-1 viral load previously determined on the same blood samples to guide clinical care were used as indices of severity of HIV-1 infection. Statistical analysis of the data was done to evaluate the effects of sickle cell trait on the severity and prevalence of HIV-1 infection, relative to the prevalence of 1.4% in the general population of Nigeria.

Results and Discussion:

The distribution of hemoglobin genotypes among the HIV-1 patients was comparable to that in the general population of Nigeria (Chi-squared statistic =1.025; p value = 0.31, not significant). Neither viral load (p = 0.32) nor blood CD4+ cell count (p = 0.30) was significantly different between all HbAS versus all HbAA patients. There was a trend towards lower viral load in females and a significant interaction between gender and HbAS for viral load (P = 0.018), suggesting that sickle cell trait might be associated with the severity of HIV-1 infection in females.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that sickle cell trait might be associated with severity of HIV-1 infection in female, but not all, patients. Larger, prospective studies are required to further investigate the effect of sickle cell trait on HIV-1 infection.
An Integrated Reporting Tool for Management of Hiv And Non-communicable Diseases for Primary Health Care Facilities in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Murudi-Manganye N.S. , Makhado L. , Sehularo L.A.
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Reporting of a health programme such as integrated management of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) is essential for programme evaluation to improve patient clinical outcomes. It is a criterion that all services that are provided in primary health care facilities and hospitals are monitored, evaluated and reported according to the approved reporting tools and approved health indicators.

Aim:

This study aimed to develop a reporting tool to report the implementation of integrated management of HIV and NCDs in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Methodology:

The South African National Indicators Data Sets (NIDS) were adopted and used to develop the integrated management of HIV and NCDs reporting tool. A Delphi technique was used to validate the developed reporting tool. Eight (8) HIV and NCDs programme experts participated in the review process to establish the validity of the developed tool.

Results:

Eight integrated HIV and NCDs data elements reporting tool were developed and reviewed by eight (8) programme experts. The tool was found to be relevant and useful and likely to be adopted by Limpopo province for implementation.

Conclusion:

This was the first integrated HIV and NCDs reporting tool to be developed for Nurse Initiated Management of Antiretroviral Therapy (NIMART) Nurses in Limpopo Province to serve as a basic reporting tool to improve the integrated management of HIV and NCDs including patient outcomes.
Acceptability and Usability of a Reward-Based Mobile App for Opioid Treatment Settings: Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Proctor Steven L , Rigg Khary K , Tien Allen Y
Published: October 2022

Background

Contingency management is an evidence-based yet underutilized approach for opioid use disorder (OUD). Reasons for limited adoption in real-world practice include ethical, moral, and philosophical concerns regarding use of monetary incentives, and lack of technological innovation. In light of surging opioid overdose deaths, there is a need for development of technology-enabled solutions leveraging the power of contingency management in a way that is viewed by both patients and providers as acceptable and feasible.

Objective

This mixed methods pilot study sought to determine the perceived acceptability and usability of PROCare Recovery, a reward-based, technology-enabled recovery monitoring smartphone app designed to automate contingency management by immediately delivering micropayments to patients for achieving recovery goals via smart debit card with blocking capabilities.

Methods

Participants included patients receiving buprenorphine for OUD (n=10) and licensed prescribers (n=5). Qualitative interviews were conducted by 2 PhD-level researchers via video conferencing to explore a priori hypotheses. Thematic analysis of interviews was conducted and synthesized into major themes.

Results

Participants were overwhelmingly in favor of microrewards (eg, US $1) to incentivize treatment participation (up to US $150 monthly). Participants reported high acceptability of the planned debit card spending restrictions (blocking cash withdrawals and purchases at bars or liquor stores, casinos or online gambling). Quantitative data revealed a high level of perceived usability of the PROCare Recovery app.

Conclusions

Patients and providers alike appear receptive to microfinancial incentives in standard OUD treatment practices. Further pilot testing of PROCare is underway to determine acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness in a rigorous randomized controlled trial.
The Management Perspective in Digital Health Literature: Systematic Review
Authors: Angerer Alfred , Stahl Johanna , Krasniqi Egzona , Banning Stefan
Published: October 2022

Background

New digital health technologies are considered one solution to challenges in the health sector, which include rising numbers of chronic diseases and increased health spending. As digitalization in health care is still in its infancy, there are many unanswered questions about the impact of digital health on management.

Objective

This paper assesses the current state of knowledge in the field of digital health from a management perspective. It highlights research gaps within this field to determine future research opportunities.

Methods

A systematic review of digital health literature was conducted using 3 databases. The chosen articles (N=38) were classified according to a taxonomy developed for the purpose, and research gaps were identified based on the topic areas discussed.

Results

The literature review revealed a slight prevalence of practical (n=21, 55%) over theoretical (n=17, 45%) approaches. Most of the papers (n=23, 61%) deal with information technology (IT) and are, therefore, focused more on technology and less on management. The research question in most of the papers (n=31, 82%) deals with the creation of concepts, and very few (n=4, 11%) evaluate or even question existing solutions. Most consider the main reason for digitalization to be the optimization of operational processes (n=26, 68%), and 42% (n=16) deal with new business models. The topic area discussed most frequently was found to be eHealth (n=30, 79%). By contrast, the field of tech health with topics such as sensors receives the least attention (n=3, 8%), despite its significant potential for health care processes and strategy.

Conclusions

Three main research propositions were identified. First, research into digital health innovation should not focus solely on the technology aspects but also on its implications for strategic and operational management. Second, the research community should target other domains besides eHealth. Third, we observed a lack of quantitative research on the real impact of digital health on organizations and their management. More quantitative evidence is required regarding the expected outcome and impact of the implementation of digital health solutions into our health care organizations.