bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of task-oriented training based on acupuncture rehabilitation on upper extremity function and quality of life of patients with early stroke
Authors: Liu Hong-Guang , Liu Jing-Jing , Wang Yan-Ping , Wang Hong-Ying , Sun Ao , Zhou Yue , Cai Ming-Ming , Qi Ming-Ming
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Eighty percent of stroke patients develop upper limb dysfunction, especially hand dysfunction, which has a very slow recovery, resulting in economic burden to families and society.

AIM

To investigate the impact of task-oriented training based on acupuncture therapy on upper extremity function in patients with early stroke.

METHODS

Patients with early stroke hemiplegia who visited our hospital between January 2021 and October 2022 were divided into a control group and an observation group, each with 50 cases. The control group underwent head acupuncture plus routine upper limb rehabilitation training (acupuncture therapy). In addition to acupuncture and rehabilitation, the observation group underwent upper limb task-oriented training (30 min). Each group underwent treatment 5 d/wk for 4 wk. Upper extremity function was assessed in both groups using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Rating Scale (WMFT), modified Barthel Index (MBI), and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Quality of life was evaluated using the Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36). Clinical efficacy of the interventions was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Before intervention, no significant differences were observed in the FMA-UE, MBI, and WMFT scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). After intervention, the FMA-UE, WMFT, MBI, COPM-Functional Mobility and Satisfaction, and SF-36 scores increased in both groups (P < 0.05), with even higher scores in the observation group (P < 0.05). The observation group also obtained a higher total effective rate than the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Task-oriented training based on acupuncture rehabilitation significantly enhanced upper extremity mobility, quality of life, and clinical efficacy in patients with early stroke.
Influence of hypocalcemia on the prognosis of patients with multiple trauma
Authors: Wang Jia , Li Dong-Feng , Sun Zhen-Kang , Yang Dong-Qiang , Li Hao
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Hypocalcemia is highly common in hospitalized patients, especially in those with trauma, On the other hand, abnormal calcium metabolism is an important metabolic challenge; however, it is often neglected and untreated, and certain factors may induce serious neurological and cardiovascular complications.

AIM

To retrospectively analyze the impact of hypocalcemia on the prognosis of patients with multiple traumas.

METHODS

The study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2021. Ninety-nine patients with multiple injuries were treated at the critical care medicine department of Fuyang People’s Hospital. The selected indicators included sex, age, and blood calcium and hematocrit levels. Many indicators were observed, including within 24 h of hospitalization, and the prognosis was collected after 28 d. Based on the blood calcium levels, the patients were divided into the following two groups: Normocalcemia and hypocalcemia. Of the 99 patients included, 81 had normocalcemia, and 18 had hypocalcemia. Separate experiments were conducted for these two groups.

RESULTS

There was an association between serum calcium levels and the prognosis of patients with polytrauma.

CONCLUSION

Clinically, the prognosis of patients with multiple traumas can be preliminarily evaluated based on serum calcium levels.
Therapeutic effect of San Bi Tang combined with glucosamine sulfate capsules in cold-dampness-type knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ni Hui-Ying , Zhang Yao-Ping , Zhang Xiao-Feng
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Cold-dampness-type knee osteoarthritis is a common middle-aged and elderly disease, but its pathogenesis is not fully understood, and its clinical treatment has limitations. Glucosamine sulfate capsules are commonly used for treating arthritis, and San Bi Tang is a classic formula of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has the effects of warming yang, dispelling dampness, relaxing muscles, and activating collaterals. This research hypothesized that the combination of modified San Bi Tang and glucosamine sulfate capsules could enhance the clinical efficacy of treating cold-dampness-type knee osteoarthritis through complementary effects.

AIM

To analyze the clinical efficacy of San Bi Tang combined with glucosamine sulfate capsules when treating cold-dampness-type knee osteoarthritis.

METHODS

A total of 110 patients with cold-dampness-type knee osteoarthritis were selected as research subjects and randomly divided into a control group and an experimental group of 55 cases each. The control group received only treatment with glucosamine sulfate capsules, while the experimental group received additional treatment with modified San Bi Tang for a duration of 5 wk. The patients’ knee joint functions, liver and kidney function indicators, adverse reactions, and vital signs were evaluated and analyzed using SPSS 26.0 software.

RESULTS

Before treatment, the two groups’ genders, ages, and scores were not significantly different, indicating comparability. Both groups’ scores improved after treatment, which could indicate pain and knee joint function improvement, but the test group had better scores. The TCM-specific symptoms and the clinical efficacy of the treatment in the test group were higher. Before and after treatment, there were no abnormalities in the patients’ liver and kidney function indicators.

CONCLUSION

The combination of modified San Bi Tang and glucosamine sulfate capsules is superior to treatment with sulfated glucosamine alone and has high safety.
Improving pressure ulcer care in intensive care units: Evaluating the impact of bundled care and silver nanoparticle dressings
Authors: Yu Hong
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Pressure ulcer (PU) are prevalent among critically ill trauma patients, posing substantial risks. Bundled care strategies and silver nanoparticle dressings offer potential solutions, yet their combined effectiveness and impact on patient satisfaction remain insufficiently investigated.

AIM

To assess the impact of bundled care along with silver nanoparticle dressing on PUs management and family satisfaction in critically ill trauma patients.

METHODS

A total of 98 critically ill trauma patients with PUs in intensive care unit (ICU) were included in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to either the control group (conventional care with silver nanoparticle dressing, n = 49) or the intervention group (bundled care with silver nanoparticle dressing, n = 49). The PU Scale for Healing (PUSH) tool was used to monitor changes in status of pressure injuries over time. Assessments were conducted at various time points: Baseline (day 0) and subsequent assessments on day 3, day 6, day 9, and day 12. Family satisfaction was assessed using the Family Satisfaction ICU 24 questionnaire.

RESULTS

No significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the two groups. In the intervention group, there were significant reductions in total PUSH scores over the assessment period. Specifically, surface area, exudate, and tissue type parameters all showed significant improvements compared to the control group. Family satisfaction with care and decision-making was notably higher in the intervention group. Overall family satisfaction was significantly better in the intervention group.

CONCLUSION

Bundled care in combination with silver nanoparticle dressings effectively alleviated PUs and enhances family satisfaction in critically ill trauma patients. This approach holds promise for improving PUs management in the ICU, benefiting both patients and their families.
Mycobacterium gordoniasis of the cervical lymph nodes: A case report
Authors: Peng Ling , Ma Rong , Li Yong , Cheng Jie
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Owing to the advancement in bacterial identification techniques, the detection rate of non-tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) has been on the rise. Different from Mycobacterium tuberculosis , the clinical symptoms of NTM are not easily detected, and the clinical efficacy and prognosis are somewhat heterogeneous. To report a case of Mycobacterium gordoniasis of cervical lymph node diagnosed in Anhui Chest Hospital in July 2022.

CASE SUMMARY

Upon examination, the patient who weighed 67.5 kg, was human immunodeficiency virus negative, healthy, without hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and other basic diseases microscopic analysis revealed granulomatous inflammation with coagulation necrosis in the lymphocyte, and tuberculosis was not ruled out. Plain computed tomography scans of the neck and chest indicated the presence of a single grayish-yellow and grayish-brown tissue, the dimensions of which was top of form 10.5 cm × 3.0 cm × 1.5 cm. After pathological consultation in our hospital, the diagnosis was confirmed as NTM infection.

CONCLUSION

This case report and the clinical epidemiological research on improving NTM have important guiding significance for improving decision-making in clinical treatments.
Retraction note: Clinical analysis of colistin sulfate in the treatment of pneumonia caused by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Yan Jia-Ping , Wang Jin-Lei
Published: June 2024

In this retraction note, we describe the World Journal of Clinical Cases (WJCC ) Editorial Office’s decision and reason for retracting an article published in World Journal of Clinical Cases , volume 12, issue 13.
Species identification and population dynamics of cuttlefish Sepia spp. (Mollusca: Cephalopoda) landed at Brondong Fishing Port, Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: SETYOHADI DADUK , RAHMAN MUHAMMAD ARIF , HARLYAN LEDHYANE IKA , RIHMI MIHROBI KHALWATU
Published: June 2024

Abstract. Setyohadi D, Rahman MA, Harlyan LI, Rihmi MK. 2024. Species identification and population dynamics of cuttlefish Sepia spp. (Mollusca: Cephalopoda) landed at Brondong Fishing Port, Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 1359-1367. Cuttlefish (Sepia spp.) is one of Indonesia’s fisheries resources with high economic value. It is often caught in the northern Java waters, including Lamongan. As it is high value, cuttlefish resources should be managed to ensure sustainability. However, information on its biology and population dynamics is limited as the basis of fisheries management. This research aimed to identify species of cuttlefish and to estimate its biological aspects and population dynamics. Samples were randomly collected at Brondong Fishing Port from July to September 2022. The result indicated that there were two species of cuttlefish, Sepia aculeata (needle cuttlefish) and Sepia pharaonis (pharaoh cuttlefish), with a proportion of 57.1 and 42.9%, respectively. In addition, S. pharaonis was bigger and heavier than S. aculeata. The mean mantle length = 10.5 cm and weight = 166.6 g for S. aculeata, while S. pharaonis has mean mantle length = 11.4 cm and weight = 208.1 g, and both species have negative allometric growth patterns. Moreover, the asymptotic mantle length (L?) = 24.6 cm and 22.7 cm, growth rate (K) = 0.68 year-1 and 0.78 year-1, total mortality rate (Z) = 1.96 year-1 and 4.61 year-1, natural mortality rate (M) = 0.97 year-1 and 1.64 year-1, fishing mortality (F) = 0.99 year-1 and 2.97 year-1, and exploitation rate (E) = 0.51 year-1 and 0.65 year-1 for S. aculeta and S. pharaonis respectively. This finding might contribute to managing cuttlefish fishery in the north Java waters, especially in East Java.
Screening of the antimicrobial activity of Indonesian banana (Musa spp.) against pathogenic bacteria
Authors: SA’DIYAH HALIMATUS , UBAIDILLAH MOHAMMAD , HARIYADI YOGA DHEWA PRANATA , SARI VEGA KARTIKA
Published: June 2024

Abstract. Sa’diyah H, Hariyadi YDP, Ubaidillah M, Sari VK. 2024. Screening of the antimicrobial activity of Indonesian banana (Musa spp.) against pathogenic bacteria. Biodiversitas 25: 1368-1374. Investigation of natural sources of antibacterials becomes increasingly relevant and necessary due to the prevalence of high antibiotic resistance. To mitigate this issue, banana, a consumable fruit, is gaining attention as a potential natural source of antibacterials, with some varieties showing potential as alternatives to conventional antibiotics against pathogens. Exploring the potential for non-commercial bananas is important to discovering their antibacterial properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of 23 explored banana varieties against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria using the diffusion disc method. The results showed that all the different types of banana did not significantly affect the antibacterial activity. Kayu banana variety indicated the highest activity against E. coli. In contrast, Ijo banana showed potent activity against S. aureus with a non-significantly different inhibition zone than the effectiveness of ampicillin. Meanwhile, Kepok Makassar banana variety showed the highest antibacterial activity against S. typhi, which was lower than chloramphenicol's effectiveness. The Raja Nangka, Morosebo, Janten, Selendang, and Biji Seribu banana varieties had low antibacterial activity against all three bacteria tested. Therefore, the results showed opportunities for further study of various bacterial types with different banana varieties and their extracts.
Population and distribution of Javan langur (Trachypithecus auratus Geoffroy E. 1812) in Sokokembang Forest, Petungkriyono Sub-district, Pekalongan District, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: AL-HUDA INTAN RACHMADANTI , NAYASILANA IKE NURJUITA , MASYITHOH GALUH , SETIAWAN ARIF
Published: June 2024

Abstract. Al-Huda IR, Nayasilana IN, Masyithoh G, Setiawan A. 2024. Population and distribution of Javan langur (Trachypithecus auratus Geoffroy E. 1812) in Sokokembang Forest, Petungkriyono Sub-district, Pekalongan District, Central Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 1514-1520. Sokokembang is one of the potential habitats that provide a source of feed, means of movement, and shelter for Javan langurs (Trachypithecus auratus Geffroy E, 1812), which are one of the threatened Colobinae, the endemic primate of Java and Bali. Javan langur has been in decline for the last three generations. Javan langur conservation requires data and assessment of natural habitat distribution, size, and condition. This study aims to determine the population size and distribution pattern of Javan langurs in the Sokokembang forest, Central Java, Indonesia, which can be used as a basis for habitat management. The demography parameters used in this study were the population size, population density, age structure, and sex ratio. The study has been conducted from May to June 2023 on plots 18 to 21 of Sokokembang forest, Central Java. The study used the concentration count method and the nearest neighbor analysis using Arcmap 10.8. Eleven groups were identified, with the population size of each group ranging from 3 ± 23 individuals. The population density of Javan langurs was 7.46 individuals/km2. The age structure of Javan langurs in Sokokembang was dominated by the adult age class, and the male-to-female sex ratio was 1:3. The results showed a random distribution pattern of Javan langurs in the Sokokembang forest.
A girmitiya’s grandson
Authors: Lal Brij
Published: June 2024

Brij Vilash Lal was an Emeritus Professor at the Australian National University and Honorary Professor at the University of Queensland. He taught History at the ANU, the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the University of the South Pacific and the University of Papua New Guinea. He was a Life Member of Clare Gall, University of Cambridge. He was the author of more than twenty books and editor of another twenty on the history and culture of the Indian diaspora and on the history and politics of Fiji. He died on 25 December 2021.
Brinsley Samaroo, historian (1940–2023)
Authors: Brereton Bridget
Published: June 2024

This informal presentation seeks to analyze the late Brinsley Samaroo’s major work as a historian. It discusses his pioneering research and writing on labour and political struggles in Trinidad & Tobago in the last century, and his involvement in research on the indentured Indian Diaspora in that country and in the Caribbean more generally. It also notes his work as a public intellectual and cultural activist.
A Qualitative Program Evaluation of a Digital Peer Support Group for Formerly Incarcerated People
Authors: Boles Will , Nguyen Lauren , Tatum Thad , Wall Jarrod , Van Dall Alexandria , Niyogi Anjali , Sacks Anna , Reilly Bruce , Mulhollem Claire , Wennerstrom Ashley
Published: June 2024

Abstract: Objectives: A qualitative program evaluation of the Formerly Incarcerated Peer Support (FIPS) group, a peer-led mutual support group for formerly incarcerated people, was conducted to understand participant perceptions of (1) digital delivery via Zoom, (2) curriculum content, (3) roles of group participants, and (4) therapeutic value of FIPS group as it relates to traumatic experiences in prison and ongoing challenges after release. Methods: Using a community-based participatory action research approach, a qualitative evaluation was conducted with participants in either the 2020 or 2021 curriculum. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom, transcribed, de-identified, coded, and analyzed via applied thematic analysis and results reviewed with participants. Results: Of 75 formerly incarcerated participants, 20 interviews were conducted and recorded ( n = 20). All participants were male, 85% were Black, and the average age was 54.8 years old. Zoom delivery was not preferred, but feasible. Most appreciated the comprehensive and holistic curriculum that enabled peers to gain practical and emotional social support in different areas of life after release. The facilitator’s experience with prison programs and relationships within peer networks was essential for recruitment and retention. Participants described (1) feelings of acceptance, (2) examples of teaching and learning from peers’ improved insight, trigger management, response modification to stressors, and (3) improved understanding within relationships with those who have not been incarcerated. Conclusions: Digital delivery of peer-led psychosocial support groups for formerly incarcerated people is feasible and impactful. Future research can further characterize the lingering impacts of institutional traumas and quantify changes.
Partnering to Address Health Inequities among Incarcerated Populations: Prisons, Jails, and COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Osman Ingie H. , Smith Aparea , Williams Antonio , Pierson Katie , Ryu Eric , Shlafer Rebecca J.
Published: June 2024

Abstract: Background: Incarcerated people have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and face significant challenges to COVID-19 vaccine confidence. Objectives: (1) Describe our partnerships with community members directly impacted by incarceration, (2) discuss the partnership’s process for co-developing and implementing project interventions to increase COVID-19 vaccine confidence, and (3) share lessons learned from this unique community-engaged partnership. Methods: An advisory board of 14 formerly incarcerated community members participated in this project. Their wisdom and experience led to the development and implementation of interventions to increase confidence in COVID-19 vaccines among incarcerated people. Lessons Learned: Valuable lessons learned were centering community, leaning into trusted sources of information, acknowledging historical and present harms, and investing in community-engaged work. Conclusions: Centering lived experiences of those directly impacted by incarceration has been crucial to increasing vaccine confidence among this population. Doing so reinforced the importance of long-term investments in community-based collaborations with communities impacted by incarceration.
Contre-harems : troubler la répartition genrée des espaces dans le récit maghrébin
Authors: Alix Florian
Published: June 2024

Résumés: Le harem est une institution complexe qui a été simplifiée par les discours orientalistes et les représentations culturelles. Cela implique une stricte séparation genrée entre l’espace privé et l’espace public. Dans Dreams of Trespass, Fatima Mernissi joue avec cette conception et propose une image plus active et émancipatrice de la femme marocaine du premier XXe siècle. Même si les nouvelles de Femmes d’Alger dans leur appartement d’Assia Djebar ne se déroulent pas dans de véritable harem, elles héritent de ces représentations imaginaires, du moins dans le souvenir de Delacroix. Ces deux écrivains utilisent une sorte de contre-harem : une déconstruction de la conception européenne erronée du harem qui laisse place à une dynamique émancipatrice pour les personnages féminins des récits. Abstract: The harem institution is a complex one which has been simplified by Orientalist discourses and cultural representations. It implies a strict gendered separation between the private and the public space. In Dreams of Trespass, Fatima Mernissi plays with this conception and suggests a more active and emancipatory image of Moroccan women of the first 20th century. Even if the short stories of Assia Djebar’s Femmes d’Alger dans leur appartement do not take place in real harems, they inherit these imaginary representations, at least in Delacroix’s memory. Both of these writers use a sort of counter-harem: a deconstruction of the European misconception of harem which give way to emancipatory dynamics for the female characters of the narratives.
The Dicts and Sayings of the Philosophers in London, Lambeth Palace Library, MS 265
Authors: Khalaf Omar
Published: June 2024

Abstract: The manuscript copy of Earl Rivers’ Dicts and Sayings of the Philosophers extant in London, Lambeth Palace Library MS 25, produced for the King Edward IV and the royal family shortly after the issue of Caxton’s first edition of the work, preserves a version of the text that is traditionally described as presenting a still imperfect review, which would be completed three years later with the second edition. However, a collation with the prints, however, shows that the revision is much more careful and exhaustive than previously hypothesized; apart from prompting a redefinition of (at least part) of the textual tradition of the Dicts, this also lends support to Rivers’ direct involvement in the making of this manuscript, which would become the major manifestation of his role as patron and man of letters in Edward IV’s court.
Exile as Metaphor
Authors: Ignatieff Michael
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: Susan Sontag's Illness as Metaphor argues that illnesses like cancer are harder to endure because of the metaphors of dread that accompany them. Exiles experience a similar phenomenon. The real dimensions of the experience can be made harder by metaphors of dispossession and loss. Vladimir Nabokov's Speak, Memory is a profound reflection on—and rebellion against—the metaphors that defined the Russian exile experience after 1917. This essay discusses the experience of the author's own family to examine how they struggled against the undertow of metaphor that shaped their experience of exile.
Exile's Return in the Ancient Indian Epics
Authors: Doniger Wendy
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: The essay explores the positive aspects of exile in the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, in both of which the exiled heroes experience magical adventures quite different from those that we know from the exploits of exiles in Greek and Latin classics and European children's literature. These heroes also vividly encounter ancient Indian mythology and philosophy, and in the end undergo a transformation that prepares them for their ultimate entrance into heaven.
Life with a Foreign Accent
Authors: Gross Irena Grudzińska
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: Using the words of some poets, the essay illuminates some difficulties of living in exile.
A Crooked Path through History: Iranian Exile Art
Authors: Balaghi Shiva
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: By tracing the relationship between the work and the world, Iranian exile art reveals alternative perspectives on key historical moments, from the 1953 coup to the current climate crisis. The artists Siah Armajani, Nicky Nodjoumi, Shirin Neshat, Simin Keramati, Arghavan Khosravi, Pouran Jinchi, and Gelare Khoshgozaran emigrated from Iran between 1960 and 2012. Through a range of media—from painting to sculpture, from political posters to film—these artists have developed a distinct visual language to convey their own exilic experience. Mapping this art offers a cartography of exile shaped by the fraught, overlapping histories of Iran and the United States.
Uncreated Grace and Merit: Scheeben Interprets Aquinas
Authors: Strand Vincent L.
Published: June 2024

abstract: In the 1880s, Matthias Joseph Scheeben and Theodor Granderath argued over how to interpret Thomas Aquinas’s teaching in Summa Theologiae I–II, q. 114, a. 3 on the relation between the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and condign merit. Scheeben pointed to this passage as evidence that his view that the indwelling of the Holy Spirit as uncreated grace is in harmony with Aquinas. He argued that Aquinas’s phrase “the grace of the Holy Spirit” indicates that, for Aquinas, two principles are necessary for condign merit: created grace and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit as uncreated grace. This is a misreading of Aquinas, which stemmed from Scheeben’s attempt to reconcile his Greek patristic-inspired theology of divine indwelling with Latin Scholasticism. This analysis lends support to the opinion that Aquinas understood grace primarily as created, not as uncreated, as some scholars have recently argued. It also suggests that Scheeben should be regarded as a “Thomist” only in a qualified sense.
Color image hiding with invisible visual cryptography
Authors: Shen Xiaoshuang , Zhang Xinyu , Zhu Yupeng , Mi Zhaoke , Zhu Yusi , Ke Changjun , Shi Yishi
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we propose a wavelength multiplexing image hiding system based on color invisible visual cryptography (CIVC). The image is divided into red, green, and blue channels. Each channel turns into several meaningful share images, different from the random, meaningless share images in visual cryptography (VC), and these are concealed within phase keys. The acquired single-channel share images, once synthesized into a color image and subjected to incoherent superposition, enable the extraction of the secret color image. Optical experiments are presented to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Cascaded-prism multi-mode beam scanning method for three-dimensional imaging lidar
Authors: Liu Xingsheng , Li Anhu , Jiang Xinyi , Yang Haibo , Li Yuhai
Published: June 2024

Light detection and ranging (lidar) has emerged as an indispensable approach to
three-dimensional (3D) perception, which probably suffers from
performance limitations with traditional beam steering devices. In
this paper, we investigate a cascaded-prism beam scanning method to
enhance the versatility of 3D imaging lidar systems. The
cascaded-prism-based 3D lidar architecture is theoretically developed
with an emphasis on a rigorous beam scan model. By exploiting the
additional flexibility of cascaded prisms, the lidar can achieve beam
scanning through prism rotation in either step-motion or
constant-speed mode, which exhibits superior agility and adaptability
in multi-mode pattern analysis. Moreover, the cascaded-prism beam
scanning lidar is demonstrated with a 3D imaging performance
evaluation in terms of field of view, angular resolution and sampling
density. It proves that the cascaded-prism beam scanner can offer
lidar systems with flexible and configurable 3D imaging capability
while balancing between a wide field of view and high angular
resolution.
In vivo imaging of human retinal ganglion cells using optical coherence tomography without adaptive optics
Authors: Zhang Furu , Kovalick Katherine , Raghavendra Achyut , Soltanian-Zadeh Somayyeh , Farsiu Sina , Hammer Daniel X. , Liu Zhuolin
Published: June 2024

Retinal ganglion cells play an important role in human vision, and their degeneration results in glaucoma and other neurodegenerative diseases. Imaging these cells in the living human retina can greatly improve the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. However, owing to their translucent soma and tight packing arrangement within the ganglion cell layer (GCL), successful imaging has only been achieved with sophisticated research-grade adaptive optics (AO) systems. For the first time we demonstrate that GCL somas can be resolved and cell morphology can be quantified using non-AO optical coherence tomography (OCT) devices with optimal parameter configuration and post-processing.
When a lensless fluorometer outperforms a lensed system
Authors: Maharjan Asim , Waiba Prashant , Shrestha Shreya , Maharjan Rijan , Martins Augusto , Li Kezheng , Martins Emiliano R. , Krauss Thomas F. , Dhakal Ashim
Published: June 2024

The excitation and collection
of optical signals using lenses form the basis for many applications
in imaging, nephelometry, fluorometry, and spectroscopy. While lenses
are needed for imaging systems, their use is not so obvious for volume
sensing applications. Here, we study the excitation and collection of
fluorescence signals to show that lensless systems generally provide a
stronger signal compared to lensed systems for the case of extended
Lambertian-like sources, such as LEDs. To elucidate this result, we
provide a foundational framework to analyze the signal collection
efficiency from an arbitrary detection volume with and without lenses
when extended sources and detectors are used. A combination of
factors, including the limited numerical aperture, the use of extended
sources/detectors, and the requirement of a finite imaging distance
between the source/detector, lenses, and the sample, limits the
performance of the lensed system compared to the lensless system. Our
theoretical and experimental results indicate that conventional wisdom
based on the assumption of point-like sources and detectors should not
always be followed. We provide a systematic approach for analyzing and
simplifying the design of low-cost, lensless fluorometers and
nephelometers without sacrificing their performance, reporting a
sub-ppb level detection limit for measuring
tryptophan-like-fluorescence in drinking water.
Digital phenotyping correlates of mobile cognitive measures in schizophrenia: A multisite global mental health feasibility trial
Authors: Cohen Asher , Joshi Devayani , Bondre Ameya , Chand Prabhat Kumar , Chaturvedi Nirmal , Choudhary Soumya , Dutt Siddharth , Khan Azaz , Langholm Carsten , Kumar Mohit , Gupta Snehil , Nagendra Srilakshmi , Reddy Preethi V. , Rozatkar Abhijit , Sen Yogendra , Shrivastava Ritu , Singh Rahul , Thirthalli Jagadisha , Tugnawat Deepak Kumar , Bhan Anant , Naslund John A. , Vaidyam Aditya , Patel Vikram , Keshavan Matcheri , Mehta Urvakhsh Meherwan , Torous John
Published: June 2024

Traditional cognitive assessments in schizophrenia are time-consuming and necessitate specialized training, making routine evaluation challenging. To overcome these limitations, this study investigates the feasibility and advantages of utilizing smartphone-based assessments to capture both cognitive functioning and digital phenotyping data and compare these results to gold standard measures. We conducted a secondary analysis of data from 76 individuals with schizophrenia, who were recruited across three sites (one in Boston, two in India) was conducted. The open-source mindLAMP smartphone app captured digital phenotyping data and Trails A/B assessments of attention / memory for up to 12 months. The smartphone-cognitive tasks exhibited potential for normal distribution and these scores showed small but significant correlations with the results from the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia, especially the digital span and symbol coding tasks (r2 = 0.21). A small but significant correlation (r2 = 0.29) between smartphone-derived cognitive scores and health-related behaviors such as sleep duration patterns was observed. Smartphone-based cognitive assessments show promise as cross-cultural tools that can capture relevant data on momentary states among individuals with schizophrenia. Cognitive results related to sleep suggest functional applications to digital phenotyping data, and the potential of this multimodal data approach in research.
Inflammatory markers and body mass index amoung hispanic children
Authors: Lang Henry , Loudermilk Elaine N. , Clark W. Andrew , Marrs Jo-Ann , Joyner T. Andrew , Wang Liang , Gerber Kathryn S. , Alamian Arsham
Published: June 2024

Background and objectives

Body mass index (BMI) is inversely proportional with adiponectin levels among adults, while insulin, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), resistin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) have been linked with elevated BMI. The role and relation of these biomarkers with BMI among a Hispanic pediatric population are less known. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the association of inflammatory markers with the odds of overweight/obesity while controlling for several sociodemographic factors among a Hispanic youth population in Northeast Tennessee.

Methods

Height, weight, demographic information, and blood samples were collected from 107 Hispanic children aged 2 to 10 years recruited at a large community health center in 2015–2016 in Northeast Tennessee. Data for this research were accessed and analyzed in 2022. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to assess the relations between adiponectin, insulin, resistin, CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6, and overweight/obesity vs. having a healthy (normal) weight.

Results

Adiponectin levels were significantly lower among overweight/obese Hispanic children (p = 0.0144) compared to healthy weight children. The odds of overweight/obesity decreased by 4% for every one-unit increase in serum adiponectin. Insulin levels were significantly higher among overweight/obese Hispanic children compared to healthy weight children (p = 0.0048). The odds of overweight/obesity increased by 7% for every one-unit increase in serum insulin. Resistin, IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP were not significantly associated with overweight/obesity in this population.

Conclusion

Adiponectin behaves similarly in Hispanic youth as it does in other pediatric populations, possibly making it a valuable marker when examining metabolic health status in this population.
Mothers’ experience of losing infants by death and its predictors in Ethiopia
Authors: Demsash Addisalem Workie , Asefa Eyosiyas Yeshialem , Bekana Teshome
Published: June 2024

Background

Although infant deaths worldwide have reduced, many children die before their first birthday. Infant deaths are widespread in low-income countries, and information about the cause of death is limited. In Ethiopia, 53% of infants’ deaths occurred in their neonatal period, and 174 infants’ deaths occurred from 3684 births. Hence, this study aimed to assess mothers’ experiences with infant death and its predictors in Ethiopia.

Methods

A total of 1730 weighted samples of mothers from the 2019 EDHS dataset, which was collected across the regions of Ethiopia, were included for analysis. A two-stage cluster sampling technique with a cross-sectional study design was used. All mothers whose children were under the age of 0–12 months were included in this study. Six count regression models were considered and compared using Akaike’s information criteria and Bayesian information criterion with STATA version 15 software. The strength of the association between the number of infant deaths and possible predictors was determined at a P-value less than 0.05, with a 95% confidence interval. The findings were interpreted by using the incident rate ratio.

Results

A total of 46.3% of mothers had lost at least one infant by death in the last five years before the 2019 EDHS survey was held. The mean and variance of infant deaths were 2.55 and 5.58, respectively. The histogram was extremely picked at the beginning, indicating that a large number of mothers did not lose their infants by death, and that shows the data had positive skewness. Mothers under 25–29 years of age (IRR: 1.75, 95% CI:1.48, 2.24), and 30–34 years of age (IRR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.82), Somali (IRR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.57), Gambela (IRR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.61), and Harari (IRR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.63) regions, rural resident mothers (IRR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.91, and Protestant (IRR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.14, 2.96), and Muslim (IRR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.07, 2.62) religion fellow of mothers were associated with a high risk of infants’ deaths. Whereas, being rich IRR: 0.37, 95% CI: .27, .81) and adequate ANC visits (IRR: 0.28, 95% CI: .25, .83) were associated with a low risk of infant death.

Conclusion

Many mothers have experienced infant deaths, and the majority of infants’ deaths occur after the first month of birth. Encouraging mothers to attend antenatal care visits, creating mothers’ awareness about childcare, and ensuring equal health services distribution and utilization to rural residents are essential to minimize infant death. Educating lower-aged reproductive mothers would be a necessary intervention to prevent and control infant deaths.
Ear care: Knowledge, behavior, and attitudes among healthcare practitioners in Najran City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almagribi Ahmad Zaker M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Personal care for body organs is a well-known practice of human beings, especially those organs that need regular care to improve function or hygiene. The ear is a unique sense organ with a specific anatomical shape to perform the function of hearing and balance.

Objectives

To determine healthcare practitioners’ current knowledge, behavior, and attitude regarding ear care.

Subjects and methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare practitioners at different hospitals in Najran City, Saudi Arabia, from 25th June to 30th August 2022. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among healthcare practitioners using an online survey. The questionnaire includes basic demographic characteristics (i.e. gender, speciality, and religion). It assesses the knowledge, behavior, and attitude toward ear care, and the use of mobile headphones and earrings that affect ear health. All statistical data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results

Of the 209 healthcare practitioners involved, 60.8% were females, and 46.9% were physicians. The prevalence of self-ear cleaning was 97.6%. Of them, 33% were cleaning their ears every week. Cotton buds were the most preferred method for self-ear cleaning. The proportion of participants who injured their ears while cleaning was 8.6%. The most common treatment method to relieve ear pain was visiting a doctor (44.4%) and utilizing a painkiller (29.7%). Interestingly, respondents who injured their ears during cleaning and those who experienced wax accumulation were significantly more common among physicians.

Conclusion

Self-ear cleaning practices are widely prevalent in this study which could be related to the lack of knowledge about ear care among healthcare practitioners. Physicians who experienced wax accumulation tend to use other methods for self-ear cleaning rather than cotton buds. Further research is needed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of the population who are working in healthcare institutions.
Electroconvulsive therapy for the acute management of severe agitation in dementia (ECT-AD): A modified study protocol
Authors: Lapid Maria I. , Merrill Julia , Mueller Martina , Hermida Adriana P. , Nykamp Louis , Andrus Jason , Azizi Heela , Bolton Paula , Bonsu Nana , Braga Raphael , Dillon Catherine R. , Ecklesdafer Donna , Evans Darci , Harper David , Heintz Hannah , Hussain-Krauter Sehba , Holzgen Olivia , Humphrey Daniel , Jiwani Salima , Johnson Emily K. , Kang Simran , Kassien Janelle , Kim Jonathan , Knapp Rebecca G. , Kung Simon , Kremen Neil , Le Kendra , Mahdasian Jack , Marzouk Taylor , Masrud Jared D. , Mattingly Jefferson , Miller Dawn , Pagali Sandeep R. , Patrick Regan , Riva Posse Patricio , Pritchett Cristina , Rahman Aniqa , Rath Swapnil , Roczniak Cara , Rummans Teresa A. , Sanghani Sohag , Seiner Steve , Smart LeAnn , Tomaschek Evan , Tsygankova Valeriya , VanderSchuur-White Lori , Walton Monica P. , Wilkins James , Williams April , Williams Sarah M. , Petrides George , Forester Brent P.
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study began as a single-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) to investigate the efficacy and safety of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for severe treatment-refractory agitation in advanced dementia. The aims are to assess agitation reduction using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI), evaluate tolerability and safety outcomes, and explore the long-term stability of agitation reduction and global functioning. Due to challenges encountered during implementation, including recruitment obstacles and operational difficulties, the study design was modified to an open-label format and other protocol amendments were implemented.

Methods

Initially, the RCT randomized participants 1:1 to either ECT plus usual care or simulated ECT plus usual care (S-ECT) groups. As patients were enrolled, data were collected from both ECT and simulated ECT (S-ECT) patients. The study now continues in an open-label study design where all patients receive actual ECT, reducing the targeted sample size from 200 to 50 participants.

Results

Study is ongoing and open to enrollment.

Conclusion

The transition of the ECT-AD study design from an RCT to open-label design exemplifies adaptive research methodologies in response to real-world challenges. Data from both the RCT and open-label phases of the study will provide a unique perspective on the role of ECT in managing severe treatment-refractory agitation in dementia, potentially influencing future clinical practices and research approaches.
Alcohol exposure suppresses ribosome biogenesis and causes nucleolar stress in cranial neural crest cells
Authors: Flentke George R. , Wilkie Thomas E. , Baulch Josh , Huang Yanping , Smith Susan M.
Published: June 2024

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) causes cognitive impairment and a distinctive craniofacial dysmorphology, due in part to apoptotic losses of the pluripotent cranial neural crest cells (CNCs) that form facial bones and cartilage. We previously reported that PAE rapidly represses expression of >70 ribosomal proteins (padj = 10-E47). Ribosome dysbiogenesis causes nucleolar stress and activates p53-MDM2-mediated apoptosis. Using primary avian CNCs and the murine CNC line O9-1, we tested whether nucleolar stress and p53-MDM2 signaling mediates this apoptosis. We further tested whether haploinsufficiency in genes that govern ribosome biogenesis, using a blocking morpholino approach, synergizes with alcohol to worsen craniofacial outcomes in a zebrafish model. In both avian and murine CNCs, pharmacologically relevant alcohol exposure (20mM, 2hr) causes the dissolution of nucleolar structures and the loss of rRNA synthesis; this nucleolar stress persisted for 18-24hr. This was followed by reduced proliferation, stabilization of nuclear p53, and apoptosis that was prevented by overexpression of MDM2 or dominant-negative p53. In zebrafish embryos, low-dose alcohol or morpholinos directed against ribosomal proteins Rpl5a, Rpl11, and Rps3a, the Tcof homolog Nolc1, or mdm2 separately caused modest craniofacial malformations, whereas these blocking morpholinos synergized with low-dose alcohol to reduce and even eliminate facial elements. Similar results were obtained using a small molecule inhibitor of RNA Polymerase 1, CX5461, whereas p53-blocking morpholinos normalized craniofacial outcomes under high-dose alcohol. Transcriptome analysis affirmed that alcohol suppressed the expression of >150 genes essential for ribosome biogenesis. We conclude that alcohol causes the apoptosis of CNCs, at least in part, by suppressing ribosome biogenesis and invoking a nucleolar stress that initiates their p53-MDM2 mediated apoptosis. We further note that the facial deficits that typify PAE and some ribosomopathies share features including reduced philtrum, upper lip, and epicanthal distance, suggesting the facial deficits of PAE represent, in part, a ribosomopathy.
Identifying critical growth stage and resilient genotypes in cowpea under drought stress contributes to enhancing crop tolerance for improvement and adaptation in Cameroon
Authors: Ngompe Deffo Toscani , Kouam Eric Bertrand , Mandou Marie Solange , Bara Raba Allah-To , Chotangui Asafor Henry , Souleymanou Adamou , Beyegue Djonko Honore , Tankou Christopher Mubeteneh
Published: June 2024

Drought stress following climate change is likely a scenario that will have to face crop growers in tropical regions. In mitigating this constraint, the best option should be the selection and use of resilient varieties that can withstand drought threats. Therefore, a pot experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions at the Research and Teaching Farm of the Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences of the University of Dschang. The objectives are to identify sensitive growth stage, to identify drought-tolerant genotypes with the help of yield-based selection indices and to identify suitable selection indices that are associated with yield under non-stress and stress circumstances. Eighty-eight cowpea genotypes from the sahelian and western regions of Cameroon were subjected to drought stress at vegetative (VDS) and flowering (FDS) stages by withholding water for 28 days, using a split plot design with two factors and three replications. Seed yields under stress (Ys) and non-stress (Yp) conditions were recorded. Fifteen drought indices were calculated for the two drought stress levels against the yield from non-stress plants. Drought Intensity Index (DII) under VDS and FDS were 0.71 and 0.84 respectively, indicating severe drought stress for both stages. However, flowering stage was significantly more sensitive to drought stress compared to vegetative stage. Based on PCA and correlation analysis, Stress Tolerance Index (STI), Relative Efficiency Index (REI), Geometric Mean Productivity (GMP), Mean Productivity (MP), Yield Index (YI) and Harmonic Mean (HM) correlated strongly with yield under stress and non-stress conditions and are therefore suitable to discriminate high-yielding and tolerant genotypes under both stress and non-stress conditions. Either under VDS and FDS, CP-016 exhibited an outstanding performance under drought stress and was revealed as the most drought tolerant genotype as shown by ranking, PCA and cluster analysis. Taking into account all indices, the top five genotypes namely CP-016, CP-021, MTA-22, CP-056 and CP-060 were identified as the most drought-tolerant genotypes under VDS. For stress activated at flowering stage (FDS), CP-016, CP-056, CP-021, CP-028 and MTA-22 were the top five most drought-tolerant genotypes. Several genotypes with insignificant Ys and irrelevant rank among which CP-037, NDT-001, CP-036, CP-034, NDT-002, CP-031, NDT-011 were identified as highly drought sensitive with low yield stability. This study identified the most sensitive stage and drought tolerant genotypes that are proposed for genetic improvement of cowpea.