bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preclinical in vivo longitudinal assessment of KG207-M as a disease-modifying Alzheimer’s disease therapeutic
Authors: Kang Min Su , Shin Monica , Ottoy Julie , Aliaga Arturo Aliaga , Mathotaarachchi Sulantha , Quispialaya Kely , Pascoal Tharick A , Collins D Louis , Chakravarty M. Mallar , Mathieu Axel , Sandelius Åsa , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Massarweh Gassan , Soucy Jean-Paul , Cuello A Claudio , Gauthier Serge , Waterston Michael , Yoganathan Nathan , Lessard Etienne , Haqqani Arsalan , Rennie Kerry , Stanimirovic Danica , Chakravarthy Balu , Rosa-Neto Pedro
Published: August 2021

In vivo biomarker abnormalities provide measures to monitor therapeutic interventions targeting amyloid-β pathology as well as its effects on downstream processes associated with Alzheimer’s disease pathophysiology. Here, we applied an in vivo longitudinal study design combined with imaging and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, mirroring those used in human clinical trials to assess the efficacy of a novel brain-penetrating anti-amyloid fusion protein treatment in the McGill-R-Thy1-APP transgenic rat model. The bi-functional fusion protein consisted of a blood-brain barrier crossing single domain antibody (FC5) fused to an amyloid-β oligomer-binding peptide (ABP) via Fc fragment of mouse IgG (FC5-mFc2a-ABP). A five-week treatment with FC5-mFc2a-ABP (loading dose of 30 mg/Kg/iv followed by 15 mg/Kg/week/iv for four weeks) substantially reduced brain amyloid-β levels as measured by positron emission tomography and increased the cerebrospinal fluid amyloid-β42/40 ratio. In addition, the 5-week treatment rectified the cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light chain concentrations, resting-state functional connectivity, and hippocampal atrophy measured using magnetic resonance imaging. Finally, FC5-mFc2a-ABP (referred to as KG207-M) treatment did not induce amyloid-related imaging abnormalities such as microhemorrhage. Together, this study demonstrates the translational values of the designed preclinical studies for the assessment of novel therapies based on the clinical biomarkers providing tangible metrics for designing early-stage clinical trials.
Expanding digital academic library and archive services at the University of Calgary in response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Murphy James E. , Lewis Carla J. , McKillop Christena A. , Stoeckle Marc
Published: August 2021

Despite the uncertain challenges facing libraries of all types during the COVID-19 pandemic, new best practices and innovative ways of approaching services have emerged. Including the groundbreaking Taylor Family Digital Library in 2011, the University of Calgary Libraries and Cultural Resources has been contributing towards the ongoing development of the digital academic library. The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a rapid leveraging of digital skills, platforms, expertise, and models of service delivery to continue providing exceptional and transformative experiences for the University of Calgary community. The initiatives discussed in this article include online work teams, virtual 360-degree tours, the online library chat service, digital collections agreements, and remote services for archives and special collections.
Random Forest Model for Trip End Identification Using Cellular Phone and Points of Interest Data
Authors: Yang Fei , Wang Yanchen , Jin Peter J. , Li Dingbang , Yao Zhenxing
Published: August 2021

Cellular phone data has been proven to be valuable in the analysis of residents’ travel patterns. Existing studies mostly identify the trip ends through rule-based or clustering algorithms. These methods largely depend on subjective experience and users’ communication behaviors. Moreover, limited by privacy policy, the accuracy of these methods is difficult to assess. In this paper, points of interest data is applied to supplement cellular phone data’s missing information generated by users’ behaviors. Specifically, a random forest model for trip end identification is proposed using multi-dimensional attributes. A field data acquisition test is designed and conducted with communication operators to implement synchronized cellular phone data and real trip information collection. The proposed identification approach is empirically evaluated with real trip information. Results show that the overall trip end detection precision and recall reach 95.2% and 88.7% with an average distance error of 269 m, and the time errors of the trip ends are less than 10 min. Compared with the rule-based approach, clustering algorithm, naive Bayes method, and support vector machine, the proposed method has better performance in accuracy and consistency.
The Road Less Traveled: Does Rail Transit Matter?
Authors: Tao Tao , Cao Jason , Wu Xinyi
Published: August 2021

Quantifying the effect of rail transit on vehicular traffic helps policy makers understand its transportation benefits. Previous studies seldom consider the effect over time and the influence of confounding factors. We apply a quasi-experiment research design to explore the evolving impact of the Green Line light rail transit on vehicular traffic in the Twin Cities, controlling for road classification, land use, and transit supply. The results show that rail transit is a substitute for automobile traffic, but induced and diverted trips gradually reduce the substitution effect. The reduced effect suggests that rail transit improves transportation system performance.
Evaluating the Beijing Version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment for Identification of Cognitive Impairment in Monolingual Chinese American Older Adults
Authors: Hong Yue , Zeng Xiaoyi , Zhu Carolyn W. , Neugroschl Judith , Aloysi Amy , Sano Mary , Li Clara
Published: August 2021

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the performance of a Chinese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) as a screener to detect mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia from normal cognition in the monolingual Chinese-speaking immigrant population. Method: A cohort of 176 Chinese-speaking older adults from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set is used for analysis. We explore the impact of demographic variables on MoCA performance and calculate the optimal cutoffs for the detection of MCI and dementia from normal cognition with appropriate demographic adjustment. Results: MoCA performance is predicted by age and education independent of clinical diagnoses, but not by sex, years of living in the U.S., or primary Chinese dialect spoken (i.e., Mandarin vs. Cantonese). With adjustment and stratification for education and age, we identify optimal cutoff scores to detect MCI and dementia, respectively, in this population. These optimal cutoff scores are different from the established scores for non-Chinese-speaking populations residing in the U.S. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the Chinese version of MoCA is a valid screener to detect cognitive decline in older Chinese-speaking immigrants in the U.S. They also highlight the need for population-based cutoff scores with appropriate considerations for demographic variables.
Epilogue to “Questioning Life and Cognition” by John Stewart
Authors: Froese Tom
Published: August 2021

In 2012, John Stewart contributed a book manuscript entitled “ Questioning Life and Cognition: Some Foundational Issues in the Paradigm of Enaction” to the Enaction Series in Online Collaborative Publishing, edited by Olivier Gapenne and Bruno Bachimont. Along with Mattéo Mossio, I was invited by Olivier to serve as a glossator of this text. The purpose was to thereby continue our long and fruitful dialogues with John that began when we were both students. I took advantage of the opportunity to also express my gratitude to John for his participation in that formative stage of my personal academic journey. My reflections were included as an epilogue to his book. In memoriam, the epilogue is reproduced in this report unchanged. I will always be grateful to John for making the research community of enaction feel like family to me and for helping me recognize that there is a place for my diverse interests in the continued pursuit of an academic career.
The Effect of the Mobile Subtalar Joint on Calcaneal and Supramalleolar Osteotomies
Authors: Krause Fabian , Zderic Ivan , Gueorguiev Boyko , Vellasamy Anandakumar , Schmid Timo
Published: August 2021

Background:

The mobile subtalar joint (STJ) may compensate for supra- and inframalleolar deformities and counteract the effect of realigning calcaneal or distal tibial osteotomies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the compensatory effect of the mobile STJ after supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) and calcaneus osteotomy (COT) and whether the extent of the compensation correlates with STJ shape and orientation.

Methods:

In 10 human lower leg cadavers without evidence of deformity or prior trauma 700 Newton load were applied as a simulated standing pose. The center of force (COF) migration, maximum pressure (Pmax), and the area loaded were measured with high-resolution sensors in the ankle before and after 10-mm varus/valgus sliding COT and 10-degree varus / valgus SMOT. A computed tomographic evaluation of subtalar anatomy was conducted to correlate posterior facet curvature, its varus/valgus orientation in the coronal plane, and the effect on COF, Pmax, and area loaded.

Results:

The COF migration was significant for both varus and valgus SMOTs (varus SMOT: 1.78 mm, P = .0029; valgus SMOT: 1.85 mm, P = .0018) but not for COT (varus COT: 0.45 mm, P = .85; valgus COT: 1.15 mm, P = .11). Pmax and area loaded changed but not significantly. The radius of the posterior STJ surface showed a moderate correlation (varus SMOT: r = 0.61, P = .063; valgus SMOT: r = 0.28, P = .43, varus COT: r = −0.61, P = .063; valgus COT: r = 0.13, P = .38) and the axis a weak inverse correlation (varus SMOT: r = −0.51, P = .013; valgus SMOT: r = 0.58, P = .079; varus COT: r = −0.51, P = .14; valgus COT: r = 0.38, P = .28) with the COF migration after the osteotomies.

Conclusion:

The compensatory capacity of a mobile STJ is relatively small but appears to limit the effect of COT more than SMOT. The COT is less effective in influencing ankle joint pressure for realignment purposes than SMOT in mobile STJ and clinically more consistent in stiff STJ. Correlations are moderate to weak, whereas the curvature more than orientation of posterior facet inversely correlates with osteotomy’s effects.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, biomechanical cadaver study.
Robust flight mode transition control for tail-sitter formation flying with communication delays
Authors: Liu Deyuan , Liu Hao , Li Xin
Published: August 2021

In this article, the formation control problem is investigated for a team of unmanned tail-sitters subject to communication delays. A robust distributed and continuous formation control scheme is developed to achieve the desired aggressive time-varying formation flying in flight mode transitions between forward and vertical flights. The proposed control method consists of a translational controller and a rotational controller for each individual tail-sitter to govern the position and attitude motions, respectively. It is proven that the formation system stability can be guaranteed in the presence of communication delays and multiple uncertainties. Simulation results are presented for a team of tail-sitters to illustrate the advantages of the proposed formation flight control algorithm.
Analytically measure the vibratory characteristics of the cable-stayed bridge during dual-cantilever erection
Authors: Yi Zhuangpeng , Pan Quan , Yan Donghuang , Zeng Youyi
Published: August 2021

To analytically measure the vibratory characteristics of the cable-stayed bridge with beam-tower constraint during the dual-cantilever erection, the isolating/assembling technique is used to derive the global equation. Eigen-equation governing the frequencies/modes is obtained by applying the coefficients vectors transferring between adjacent cable-beams and the boundary/matching conditions. An illustrative example of the dual-cantilever erection system is given to verify the effectiveness of the analytical method by comparing with the finite element method. The influences of the vertical/rotational beam-tower constraint stiffness and the beam/cable relative stiffness on the frequencies/modes are studied; the sensitive interval and unstable/veering regions in frequency spectrum are ascertained. The twin frequencies are analytically measured and it is found that the symmetry plays a fundamental role in its existence and distribution range. The measuring method supplies reference for similar cable-supported structures; the results provide suggestions to avoid unstable/veering zone depending on the designed parameters combination in cable-stayed bridge.
The role of context in understanding the use of tactical officers: A brief research note
Authors: Jenkins Bryce , Semple Tori , Bennell Craig , Huey Laura
Published: August 2021

A small body of research suggests that the use of police tactical officers has become normalized in that they now commonly respond to “routine” calls rather than being restricted to high-risk situations. However, this research has tended to rely on crude data (i.e., call type), which fails to account for the context of the calls (e.g., the presence of potential risk factors that might warrant tactical resources). In this brief research note, we sought to expand upon previous literature by examining the risk factors associated with tactical calls in a Canadian police service. We found that various risk factors were present in many of the calls that tactical officers responded to, some of which might be classified as “routine” (suicide threats, well-being checks, domestic disturbances, etc.). The presence of such risk factors highlights the need to consider context when attempting to understand the use (and consequences) of tactical officers. More rigorous tracking of these factors by police services will facilitate such research and inform policies around the use of tactical resources.
Orthodontic clinicians’ attitudes and knowledge of dentogingival aesthetics: A cross-sectional survey of BOS members
Authors: Ajrash Eman , DiBiase Andrew T , Pandis Nikolaos , Cobourne Martyn T , Seehra Jadbinder
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To assess orthodontic clinicians’ knowledge and attitudes towards dentogingival aesthetics and to explore characteristics that predict the knowledge of dentogingival aesthetics.

Design:

Cross-sectional questionnaire

Setting:

On-line survey of members of the British Orthdontic Society.

Materials and Methods:

An 11-item online questionnaire was sent to orthodontic practitioners for completion. The questionnaire covered respondent demographics and questions relating to both knowledge and attitudes towards dentogingival aesthetics (six parameters). Descriptive statistics were calculated for study characteristics and summary values for the survey items. Responses to the eight knowledge-based questions were converted to a binary outcome (correct and incorrect answer). The maximum score that could be achieved was eight. Multivariable modelling was used in order to examine associations between the study characteristics and the aggregate score.

Results:

A total of 252 responses were obtained resulting in a response rate of 17%. Within this cohort, the respondents were primarily women (52.8%) and aged 30–40 years (35.7%). The mean score for the eight knowledge-based questions was 3.8 ± 1.8 (range = 0−8). Knowledge of the ideal gingival margin position of the anterior teeth was high (92.4%). Knowledge of the other five dentogingival aesthetic parameters was variable. In the multivariable analysis, lower knowledge scores were predicated by respondents who did not have a special interest in dental aesthetics (−0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.01 to −0.07; P = 0.02), who could not recall attending courses, lectures or seminars on dental aesthetics in the past five years (−0.80; 95% CI = −1.43 to −0.17; P = 0.01) and with increasing age (−0.43; 95% CI = −0.62 to −0.23; P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Knowledge of ideal dentogingival parameters is generally suboptimal among orthodontists in the UK. The reported lack of knowledge of the ideal dentogingival parameters may also influence respondents’ attitudes towards the importance of dentogingival aesthetics. Further teaching or courses related to dentogingival aesthetics is desired by orthodontic clinicians.
‘He’s got the touch’: Tracing the masculine regulation of the body schema in reciprocal relations between ‘self-others-things’
Authors: Murphy Stephen
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this article is to examine the interconnections between embodiment and masculinity. Departing from the predominant discursive view of masculinity, I explain how a phenomenological, post-dualistic approach, inspired by Merleau-Ponty and Butler, can be mobilized to conceptualize masculinity as an embodied, performative accomplishment that reverberates around socio-material relations. Towards this end, this article traces the masculine regulation of the body schema as it develops in reciprocal relations between ‘self-others-things’. Drawing from reflexive field notes and participant interviews, gathered over a 5-year period of observant participation with male motorcycle repairers, the article shows machinic masculinity as an embodied emplacement that is constituted by socio-material entanglements and performative enactments. In so doing, the article conceptually reframes how masculinity and embodiment are understood in Consumer Culture Theory (CCT).
Do Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program Web Sites Address Diversity and Inclusion?
Authors: Mortman Ryan J. , Gu Alex , Berger Peter , Choudhury Samrat , Bernstein Simone A. , Stake Seth , Fassihi Safa C. , Thakkar Savyasachi C. , Campbell Joshua C.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Orthopedic surgery is one of the least diverse medical specialties. Other medical specialties have employed diversity-related initiatives to increase the number of students underrepresented in medicine (URM). Furthermore, with the suspension of visiting student rotations during the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students used residency program Web sites as a main source of program-specific information.

Aims/Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to measure the extent to which orthopedic surgery residency program Web sites describe diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Methods:

The Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) was used to identify U.S. orthopedic surgery residency programs. The programs’ Web sites were reviewed, and data on commitments to diversity and inclusion were collected. Descriptive statistics of these data were generated.

Results:

There were 192 residency programs identified and 3 were excluded from the analysis due to lack of Web sites. Of the remaining 189 residency program Web sites, only 55 (29.10%) contained information on diversity and inclusion. Information on a commitment to improving diversity and inclusion was the most prevalent data point found among program Web sites, although it was found on only 15% of program Web sites.

Conclusion:

Orthopedic surgery residency programs rarely address topics related to diversity and inclusion on their program Web sites. An emphasis on opportunities for URM students and initiatives related to diversity and inclusion on program Web sites may improve URM outreach and serve as one method for increasing URM matriculation into orthopedic surgery.
Natural characteristics analysis and experimental test of spiral bevel gear pair in the tractor transmission system
Authors: Chen Yuan , Mou Xudong
Published: August 2021

Spiral bevel gear is widely used in various mechanical transmission systems, such as tractor transmission system. Because it is mainly used in the heavy-load conditions, it would most likely resonate within the rated speed, resulting in tooth fatigue damage. In this paper, based on the principle of meshing and gear tooth machining, the spherically involute tooth profile equation of spiral bevel gear is deduced and the precise modeling method based on the CATIA is studied. The natural frequency and modal shape under free vibration are obtained by the finite element method (FEM), the influence of web thickness and web hole on the natural frequency of driven gear plate is analyzed as well. In addition, the experimental modal of bevel gear pair is carried out based on a multiple-reference impact test, Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC) is calculated, the three-dimensional modeling accuracy and the finite element analysis reliability are verified. The results show that the error between the measured frequency of bevel gear pair and the calculated frequency of the finite element simulation are both within 5%, and the MAC is above 0.8. The fourth-order natural frequency is the most sensitive to the web thickness, the second-order natural frequency is the most sensitive to the web hole.
Practice and transfer with mappings of spoon tip and handle to keypress responses
Authors: Xu Yaqi , Xiong Aiping , Proctor Robert W
Published: August 2021

When orientation of a horizontal spoon image varies to the left or right, instructions can map left and right keypresses to the tip or handle location. We conducted Experiment 1 to determine whether practice with an incompatible mapping of the salient tip transfers to a test session in which the relevant part and/or mapping are changed. Participants performed 80 practice trials with tip-incompatible mapping, followed by 80 test trials with tip-compatible, tip-incompatible, handle-compatible, or handle-incompatible mapping. Performance improved across 20-trial blocks in the practice session. In the test session, responses were 65 ms faster with tip-compatible than tip-incompatible mapping but 31 ms faster with handle-incompatible than handle-compatible mapping. This latter result, and verbal reports, indicate that some participants adopted a strategy of responding compatibly to the salient tip even though instructed to respond to the handle. Experiment 2 focused on whether participants with handle-incompatible mapping instructions would adopt the tip-compatible strategy spontaneously or after receiving a hint: 77% of participants reported adopting the tip-compatible strategy in Session 1, showing that prior experience responding to the tip is not necessary and 9% of participants did not report using that strategy in Session 1 but reported changing to it in Session 2 after receiving the hint. Their responses in Session 2 were slower than those who used the strategy throughout, but this difference was minimal in the last two trial blocks. Compatible mapping of the salient spoon tip to keypresses dominated performance over prior practice with incompatible tip mapping and instructions with incompatible handle mapping.
Hybrid Closed-loop to Manage Gastroparesis in People With Type 1 Diabetes: a Case Series
Authors: Daly Aideen , Hartnell Sara , Boughton Charlotte K. , Evans Mark
Published: August 2021

Background:

Gastroparesis is associated with unpredictable gastric emptying and can lead to erratic glucose profiles and negative impacts on quality-of-life. Many people with gastroparesis are unable to meet glycemic targets and there is a need for new approaches for this population. Hybrid closed-loop systems improve glucose control and quality-of-life but evidence for their use in people with diabetic gastroparesis is limited.

Methods:

We present a narrative review of the challenges associated with type 1 diabetes management for people with gastroparesis and present a case series of 7 people with type 1 diabetes and gastroparesis. We compare glycemic control before and during the first 12 months of hybrid closed-loop therapy. Data were analyzed using electronic patient records and glucose management platforms. We also discuss future advancements for closed-loop systems that may benefit this population.

Results:

Five of 7 patients had data available for time in range before and during hybrid closed-loop therapy, and all had an improvement in percentage time in target glucose range, with the overall mean time in range increasing from 26.0% ± 15.7% to 58.4% ± 8.6% during HCL use, ( P = .004). There were significant reductions in HbA1c (83 ± 9 mmol/mol to 71 ± 14 mmol/mol) and mean glucose from 13.0 ± 1.7 mmol/L (234 ± 31 mg/dL) to 10.0 ± 0.7 mmol/L (180 ± 13 mg/dL) with use of a hybrid closed-loop system. Importantly, this was achieved without an increase in time in hypoglycemia ( P = .50).

Conclusion:

Hybrid closed-loop systems may represent a valuable approach to improve glycemic control for people with type 1 diabetes and gastroparesis. Prospective studies are required to confirm these findings.
Integrating Feminist Theory, Pedagogy, and Praxis into Teacher Education
Authors: Roberts Kelly Morris
Published: August 2021

This article discusses suggestions for integrating feminist epistemology, theory, pedagogy, and praxis even more intentionally into existing U.S. teacher education curricula. The premise is that in light of recent 21st century women’s empowerment movements, such ideas should be examined and integrated fully in justice-oriented teacher education programs. Supporting them with a review of the relevant literature, the author offers additions to existing frames within teacher education in U.S. programs. The author suggests emphasis on establishing authentic teacher voice through intentional pedagogy that incorporates feminism, through establishment of community, and through praxis and reflection. With these aspects firmly established in teacher education as essential to justice-oriented teacher education, the author advocates for counter-hegemonic conversations and storylines that encourage feminist voice and feminist praxis in teacher education.
Randomized Controlled Trials of a Psychosocial Intervention for Improving the Cognitive Function among Older Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mohd Safien A’isyah , Ibrahim Norhayati , Subramaniam Ponnusamy , Shahar Suzana , Din Normah Che , Ismail Aniza , Singh Devinder Kaur Ajit , Mat Ludin Arimi Fitri
Published: August 2021

Aim: The goal is to explore available evidence and provide greater clarity to what is described as psychosocial intervention to improve cognitive function among older population with MCI as well as identifying areas for future research. Methods: An electronic literature search of PubMed, Cochrane, Ebscohost, Medline, Scopus, and gray resource was conducted to find articles published in English language between 2010 and September 2020. This review focused on research undertaken using randomized clinical trials study design. We extracted information regarding the publication date, geographical location, study setting, intervention mechanism, type of cognitive measurement used, and outcome of the studies. References of this literature were also reviewed to ensure comprehensive search. Result: Out of 240 potential records found, a total of 27 articles were identified following the first round of screening and deletion of duplicates. Full-text article reviews and analysis in the second round of screening narrowed the selection down to four articles. Another three relevant articles obtained from references were also included making a total of seven articles in the final analysis. Findings: Psychosocial intervention strategies for improvement of cognitive function, done in various setting all over the globe, covered a range of approaches including art therapy, visual art therapy, therapeutic writing therapy, reminiscence activity, and cognitive behavioral approach. Most were conducted in weekly basis within 1-to-2-hour duration of session. Cognitive function of older adult in psychosocial intervention group was significantly improved in two studies. Three studies showed no significant improvement at all in the cognitive function, and another one reported success in improving cognitive function over time in the intervention group than in control group. One study did not describe the interaction effect. Different types of cognitive measurement also were used to quantify different domains of cognitive function in the reviewed studies. Conclusion: The idea of using psychosocial intervention for improving cognitive function has begun to increasingly accepted recently. Findings from the limited studies are encouraging, although the outcome of the cognitive function was mixed. Large-scale and longer duration of psychosocial intervention with bigger sample size is warranted for future studies.
Nanoparticles derived from insect exoskeleton modulates NLRP3 inflammasome complex activation in cervical cancer cell line model
Authors: Chakraborty Rituparna , Bose Ujjal , Pawaskar Goutam , Bola Sadashiva Satish Rao , Raval Ritu
Published: August 2021

Background

Immune evasion is an important hallmark of cancer progression and tumourigenesis. Among the cancer types, cervical cancer has very high global prevalence, severely affecting female reproductive health. Its preponderance is also observed in the Indian health sector.

Results

The NLRP3 inflammasome, an intracellular complex regulates the innate immune activity and a variant gene of it has been significantly associated with cervical cancer development. We aimed to evaluate the potential role of our chitosan engineered nanoparticles (CSNP) and gallic acid conjugated chitosan (gCSNP), to modulate the NLRP3 inflammasome complex in cervical cancer cell lines to explore their novel physicochemical properties. The encapsulation of gallic acid (GA) with chitosan was performed using ion gelation method. The CSNP and gCSNP nanoparticles ranged between 155 and 181 nm as determined by zeta sizer. The conjugations were validated by FTIR and XRD analysis. In the cervical cell line model, CSNP suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in contrast to gCSNP at higher doses.

Conclusion

In contrast to gCSNP, the CSNP not only demonstrated inhibitory effect on the expression of genes coding for the NLRP3 inflammasome complex (signal 1—priming), but also decreased relative expression of gene involved in the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome complex (signal 2—activation). Conjugation of gallic acid reversed the immunosuppressor mimicking action of CSNP in cervical cancer cell line. Future research can reveal the immunomodulatory mechanism of CSNP may have its translational significance as potential treatment strategies targeting immune evasion as an important hallmark of cancer.

Graphical abstract
Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) for the detection and quantification of Ureaplasma spp.
Authors: Huang Yanfang , Pan Huifen , Xu Xiaoqin , Lv Panpan , Wang Xinxin , Zhao Zhen
Published: August 2021

Background

Ureaplasmaspp.are associated with various infectious diseases in females, but there is still limited evidence regarding whether they are related to nonspecific cervicitis. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) assay for the detection and quantification ofUreaplasmaspp. in cervical swabs.

Methods

A total of 267 non-specific cervicitis (NSC) patients and 195 asymptomatic females were included in this study. We produced standard curves forUreaplasmaspp.to evaluate the analytical performance of the ddPCR assay. Then, we detected and quantified the bacterial load ofUreaplasmaspp. in cervical swabs.

Results

The prevalences ofU. parvumwere 37.8% (101/267) and 29.7% (58/195), U. urealyticumwere 9.0% (24/267) and 8.7% (17/195) in the NSC group and control group, respectively. In addition, the median copy number ofU. parvumwas 2.5 × 104copies/ml (n = 101) in the NSC group and 9.2 × 103copies/ml (n = 58) in the control group. TheU. parvumload in the NSC group was significantly higher than that in the asymptomatic individuals (P < 0.001). whereas the median load ofU. urealyticumwas 8.4 × 103copies/ml (n = 24) and 1.4 × 103(n = 17) copies/ml in the two groups, respectively, , the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.450).

Conclusions

Our study is the first to develop a droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) method for the detection and quantification ofUreaplasmaspp. in clinical samples, and the method has excellent analytical performance and a wide range of clinical application prospects.
Concordance of skin test reactivity between indoor inhalant allergens among children with allergic respiratory disease
Authors: Kulalert Prapasri , Sritipsukho Paskorn , Nanthapisal Sira , Poachanukoon Orapan
Published: August 2021

Background

In vitro studies have demonstrated cross-reactivity among indoor allergen proteins in children with allergic respiratory diseases. However, there are only few studies evaluating invivoresponse. A skin prick test (SPT) with commercial indoor solutions is widely used in clinical practice. We aimed to evaluate SPT agreement in children with allergic respiratory disease between pairs of common indoor allergens.

Methods

We reviewed SPT results of children 2 to 18 years old, diagnosed with respiratory allergic disease. Results from house dust mite(Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus),cockroach (Periplaneta americana,Blatella germanica), cat and dog were collected. Sensitization was defined as ≥ 3 mm in wheal diameter. Kappa coefficient (κ) was used to analyze sensitization concordance for each allergen pair.

Results

The charts of 300 children, 187 (62.33%) males, were reviewed. Mean age was 7.43 ± 3.29 years with 183 (61%), 140 (46.67%), 45 (15%), 30 (10%) sensitizations to house dust mite (HDM), cockroach, cat and dog, respectively. Sensitization concordance between HDM and cockroach was moderate: κ = 0.53 (95% CI: 0.42–0.64). Moderate agreement occurred between dog and cat: κ = 0.41 (95%CI: 0.30–0.52). HDM-sensitized children showed poor concordance with both cat κ = 0.17 (95%CI: 0.09–0.24) and dog κ = 0.09 (95%CI: 0.03–0.14). There was also poor concordance between cockroach-sensitized children to cat κ = 0.19 (95%CI; 0.11–0.28) and dog κ = 0.11 (95%CI; 0.04–0.18).

Conclusion

We demonstrated moderate agreement of SPT response between HDM and cockroach as well as dog and cat. This may be due to cross-reactivity. Component-resolved diagnosis should be considered in children with co-sensitization of these allergen pairs.
Efficacy of web-based self-management interventions for depressive symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Pang Yue , Zhang Xin , Gao Ruitong , Xu Linqi , Shen Meidi , Shi Hongyu , Li Yuewei , Li Feng
Published: August 2021

Background

The incidence of depression is increasing worldwide. Depression can lead to poor physical health and even suicide. However, in high-income countries, only about 50% of the people with depression receive appropriate therapy, and the detection rate of depression in low- and middle-income countries is relatively lower. Web-based self-management enables remote treatment and solves the problem of insufficient psychological treatment resources. Many past studies have evaluated the effectiveness of web-based self-management of depression, but there has been no synthesis of evidence. Therefore, this study conducted a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of web-based self-management for depressive symptoms.

Method

Six electronic databases (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) were searched in September 2020. All literature referring to the effects of web-based self-management on depression were shortlisted by performing the medical subject headings (MeSH) search combined with a text word search.

Results

A total of 18 eligible randomized controlled trials were identified, and the results from 3055 participants were consolidated. The web-based self-management group exhibited a greater reduction in depressive symptoms than the control group (g = − 0.46; 95% CI: 0.62,0.30), and there was no evidence of publication bias. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with moderate-to-severe depression benefited from web-based self-management interventions. In terms of interventions, those based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) were highly effective. We noted that the longer the intervention time, the better was the improvement in the status of depression. Furthermore, it was established that participants who communicated with therapists and showed greater adherence to the intervention experienced significant improvement in their symptoms. The results of the intervention group were better than those of the waiting-list, treatment-as-usual, and online psychoeducation groups.

Conclusions

Web-based self-management is a promising therapy for depression. Future research should aim to refine these aspects of the intervention to achieve a beneficial impact.
Challenges and lessons learned in mental health research among refugees: a community-based study in Turkey
Authors: Karadag Ozge , Kilic Cengiz , Kaya Edip , Uner Sarp
Published: August 2021

Background

Turkey hosts nearly four million refugees and 99% live in urban areas. Research in urban settings pose different challenges and opportunities than research in refugee camps. In this article, we aimed to share the challenges and experiences we encountered in a mixed-methods study to assess mental health problems and barriers to accessing mental health care among refugees in urban areas of Turkey.

Discussion

In our case, the main challenges in conducting research with refugees were collecting data from a highly traumatized population, difficulties with contacting undocumented asylum seekers including trust issues and the fear of deportation, the risk of secondary traumatization among data collectors, and the bureaucracy during study approval processes. Targeting a representative sample was not feasible, because of the lack of publicly available demographic data on a district level, presence of undocumented asylum seekers and high mobility among the refugees. Although respondents with significant psychological symptoms were routinely referred to available mental health services, we were able to do less for unregistered refugees with problems in accessing health care. Language/alphabet differences and differing dialects of Arabic posed another challenge in both translation and administration of the scales. Based on cultural characteristics, a gender-balanced team was used and the interviewers were gender-matched whenever needed. Also, the research team had to work after work hours and during weekends to be able to interview male refugees, since most refugee men were at work during working hours and most days of the week.

Conclusions

The research team’s experience showed that refugee population characteristics including level of trauma, language, culture, gender, legal status, and urban setting characteristics including places of living, mobility, availability of publicly available demographic data, and outreach-related barriers lead to different challenges and ethical responsibilities of researchers and affect the research costs in terms of time, human resources and finance. Even in a host country with geographical, religious and cultural proximity to the refugees, profound challenges exist in conducting mental health research in urban settings. Learning from previous experience and collaborating with local researchers and institutions are vital for better public health research and practice outcomes.
Association between periodontal status and degree of maxillary sinus mucosal thickening: a retrospective CBCT study
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , He Zhengquan , Tian Huan
Published: August 2021

Background

It is well known that periodontitis can stimulate thickening of the maxillary sinus mucosa, but the association between periodontitis status and the degree of maxillary sinus mucosal thickening (maxMT) has not been reported. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of periodontal status of maxillary molars on the degree of maxMT.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) images of 203 periodontitis cases with maxMT. Parameters related to periodontitis in maxillary molars were measured and recorded on CBCT images. The dimension and length of the maxMT were also recorded. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify periodontal factors influencing the severity of maxMT, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the odds ratio of these factors.

Results

The factors affecting the degree of maxMT were mainly the amount of alveolar bone loss (ABL) and the minimum residual alveolar bone height (miniRABH). Compared to mild ABL, severe and moderate ABL were more likely to display severe maxMT. And the lower the miniRABH, the more severe the maxMT.

Conclusions

The severity of periodontal status of maxillary molars can influence the degree of maxMT.
Piezo-surgery technique and intramuscular dexamethasone injection to reduce postoperative pain after impacted mandibular third molar surgery: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Nehme Wissam , Fares Youssef , Abou-Abbas Linda
Published: August 2021

Background

Surgical extraction of the impacted mandibular third molar is commonly associated with postoperative pain, swelling, and trismus. Usually, rotatory instruments like burs have been used for osteotomy, while Piezosurgery is an innovative technique introduced to overcome the weaknesses related to the conventional technique. In addition, Dexamethasone administration before the extraction of impacted third molars is an efficient way to reduce postoperative pain due to robust anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of piezo-surgery and dexamethasone injection on postoperative sequelae after the surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars, and ultimately to compare their effect on reducing postoperative pain.

Methods

A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted with a sample of 80 patients. Participants were divided into four groups: Group 1 (Conventional rotatory), Group 2 (Conventional rotatory with 8 mg dose of dexamethasone 30 min before surgery), Group 3 (Piezo-surgery), and Group 4 (Piezo-surgery with 8 mg dose of dexamethasone 30 min before surgery). The outcome variables were surgical working time calculated in minutes, maximal mouth opening measured in millimeters using Vernier Caliper at baseline and day 3 and postoperative pain assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) on days 1, 3, and 7.

Results

The surgical working time was longer in piezo-surgery groups compared with the conventional rotatory instruments groups (15.82 ± 3.47 vs 23.33 ± 2.54;pvalue < 0.0001). The lowest reduction in mouth opening between baseline and 3rd-day post-op was found in the Piezo-surgery with Dexamethasone group (mean difference = 5.0, SD = 3.9,pvalue < 0.0001) followed by the Piezosurgery without Dexamethasone group (mean difference = 5.8, SD = 4.5,pvalue < 0.0001) and the highest average was reported by the Conventional rotatory without Dexamethasone (mean difference = 9.7, SD = 4.5,pvalue < 0.0001. In the four groups, the mean pain score was highest on the 1st day and gradually decreased over the following days. Comparison of the 1st and 3rd postoperative pain between groups revealed a lowest mean pain score in the Piezo-surgery with Dexamethasone group, followed by Conventional rotatory with Dexamethasone group and a highest mean score in the Conventional rotatory without Dexamethasone group (pvalue < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The association of Piezosurgery osteotomy and Dexamethasone intramuscular injection could be an effective combination to reduce postoperative pain and trismus after impacted third molar surgery.

Trial registration: NCT04889781 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/), Date of Registration: 17/05/2021 (retrospectively registered),https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04889781?term=NCT04889781&draw=2&rank=1
Obese rats intervened with Rhizoma coptidis revealed differential gene expression and microbiota by serum metabolomics
Authors: Ji Yanhua , Luo Kexin , Zhang Jiri Mutu , Ni Peng , Xiong Wangping , Luo Xiaoquan , Xu Guoliang , Liu Hongning , Zeng Zhijun
Published: August 2021

Background

Integrating systems biology is an approach for investigating metabolic diseases in humans. However, few studies use this approach to investigate the mechanism by whichRhizoma coptidis(RC) reduces the effect of lipids and glucose on high-fat induced obesity in rats.

Methods

Twenty-four specific pathogen-free (SPF) male Sprague–Dawley rats (80 ± 10 g) were used in this study. Serum metabolomics were detected by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry. Liver tissue and cecum feces were used for RNA-Seq technology and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, respectively.

Results

We identified nine potential biomarkers, which are differential metabolites in the Control, Model and RC groups, including linoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, arachidonic acid, stearic acid, and L-Alloisoleucine (p < 0.01). The liver tissue gene expression profile indicated the circadian rhythm pathway was significantly affected by RC (Q ≤ 0.05). A total of 149 and 39 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), which were highly associated with biochemical indicators and potential biomarkers in the cecum samples (FDR ≤ 0.05), respectively, were identified.

Conclusion

This work provides information to better understand the mechanism of the effect of RC intervention on hyperlipidemia and hypoglycemic effects in obese rats. The present study demonstrates that integrating systems biology may be a powerful tool to reveal the complexity of metabolic diseases in rats intervened by traditional Chinese medicine.
Potential barriers to and facilitators of civil society organization engagement in increasing immunization coverage in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria: an implementation research
Authors: Etokidem Aniekan , Nkpoyen Festus , Ekanem Comfort , Mpama Enagu , Isika Anastasia
Published: August 2021

Background

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are important in health care delivery. They have the potential to play significant roles in immunization-related services, such as advocacy, health education, demand creation and resource mobilization. Their roles are often indispensable, diverse and beneficial in reducing infant morbidity and mortality due to vaccine-preventable diseases. This study explored the potential barriers to and facilitators of CSO engagement in increasing immunization coverage in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria.

Methods

The study adopted qualitative data collection methods. Twenty-two focus group discussion (FGD) sessions, three in-depth interviews (IDIs) and 26 key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted. Appropriate guides (FGD guide, IDI guide and KII guide) were used to conduct face-to-face interviews and the discussions. The FGDs, KIIs and IDIs were audio-recorded and transcribed. A framework analysis approach involving five key stages of analysis (familiarization with data, identification of thematic framework, indexing, charting, mapping/interpretation) was used for data analyses and presentation.

Results

CSOs encounter barriers in the course of their immunization advocacy, communication and social mobilization due to male child preference, leading to shielding of male children and not allowing them to be given immunization, as well as patriarchy, safety concerns, religious concerns, anti-vaccine misinformation and rumours, low perception of effectiveness and efficacy of vaccines, inaccessibility of localities, low health literacy and superstitious beliefs. Various community structures, such as the institution of the village head, elders’ council and town crier (announcer), and the existence of change agents, act as facilitators of immunization advocacy and uptake. Factors such as traditional control mechanisms including masquerades and religion act as either barriers or facilitators depending on the community and the mode of deployment. CSO members are willing to overcome these barriers and leverage the facilitators.

Conclusions

For successful engagement in immunization-related services, there are barriers in the study area that CSOs should overcome, such as male child preference and geographic inaccessibility, as well as facilitators that they should leverage such as traditional information dissemination systems and enforcement of compliance by the chiefs and elders’ council.