bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Loved ones are not ‘visitors' in a patient's life”—The importance of including loved ones in the patient's hospital stay: An international Twitter study of #HospitalsTalkToLovedOnes in times of COVID-19
Authors: Hriberšek Mojca , Eibensteiner Fabian , Kapral Lorenz , Teufel Anna , Nawaz Faisal A. , Cenanovic Merisa , Sai Chandragiri Siva , Devkota Hari Prasad , De Ronita , Singla Rajeev K. , Parvanov Emil D. , Tsagkaris Christos , Atanasov Atanas G. , Schaden Eva
Published: January 2023

Background

Hospitals are institutions whose primary task is to treat patients. Family-centered care, which considers loved ones as equal partners in patient care, has been gaining recognition in the adult care setting. Our aim was to record experiences of and opinions on communication between hospital-based healthcare providers and patients' loved ones, related but not limited to the rigorous mitigation measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The Twitter profile @HospitalsTalkTo and hashtag #HospitalsTalkToLovedOnes were created to interact with the Twitter public between 7 June 2021 and 7 February 2022. Conversations surrounding #HospitalsTalkToLovedOnes were extracted and subjected to natural language processing analysis using term frequency and Markov chain analysis. Qualitative thematic analysis was performed on the 10% most interacted tweets and of tweets mentioning “COVID” from a personal experience-based subset.

Results

We collected 4412 unique tweets made or interacted by 7040 Twitter users from 142 different countries. The most frequent words were patient, hospital, care, family, loved and communication. Thematic analysis revealed the importance of communication between patients, patients' loved ones and hospitals; showed that patients and their loved ones need support during a patient's hospital journey; and that pediatric care should be the gold standard for adult care. Visitation restrictions due to COVID-19 are just one barrier to communication, others are a lack of phone signal, no space or time for asking questions, and a complex medical system. We formulate 3 recommendations to improve the inclusion of loved ones into the patient's hospital stay.

Conclusions

“Loved ones are not ‘visitors' in a patient's life”. Irrespective of COVID-19, patient's loved ones need to be included during the patient's hospital journey. Transparent communication and patient empowerment increase patient safety and improve the hospital experience for both the patients and their loved ones. Our findings underline the need for the concept of family-centered care to finally be implemented in adult nursing clinical practice.
Association between the temperature difference and acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A time-series analysis with 143,318 hospital admissions in Beijing, China
Authors: Fu Jia , Liu Yanbo , Zhao Yakun , Chen Yuxiong , Chang Zhenge , Xu Kai-Feng , Huang Cheng , Fan Zhongjie
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) has the adverse influence on quality of life and creates significant healthcare costs. However, there were sparse studies investigating the correlation between AECOPD hospital admissions and temperature change. Therefore, it is noteworthy to investigate the impact of various temperature differences and recognize the susceptible population. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of temperature differences on AECOPD hospital admissions, and to give potentially helpful material for disease preventative efforts.

Methods

The distributed lag non-linear model was adopted to characterize the exposure-response relationship and to assess the impact of temperature difference. The stratified analysis and sensitivity analysis were also conducted to determine the susceptible populations and examine the robustness of the results.

Results

There were 143,318 AECOPD hospital admissions overall during the study period. The AECOPD hospital admissions had significant association with the daily mean temperature difference (DTDmean) such as the extreme-cold temperature difference (1st DTDmean), the ultra-cold temperature difference (5th DTDmean), the ultra-hot temperature difference (95th DTDmean) and the extreme-hot temperature difference (99th DTDmean). Besides, there was the “U-shaped” association between DTDmean and 21 days cumulative relative risk of AECOPD.

Conclusion

The AECOPD hospital admissions was correlated with the DTDmean temperature differences, especially the extreme-cold and extreme-hot temperature difference. Moreover, people older than 65 years were more susceptible to the extreme-hot and extreme-cold temperature difference.
Temporal dynamic characteristics of human monkeypox epidemic in 2022 around the world under the COVID-19 pandemic background
Authors: Cao Yanxiang , Li Meijia , Haihambo Naem , Wang Xinni , Zhao Xixi , Wang Bin , Sun Meirong , Guo Mingrou , Han Chuanliang
Published: January 2023

Background

The reemergence of the monkeypox epidemic has aroused great concern internationally. Concurrently, the COVID-19 epidemic is still ongoing. It is essential to understand the temporal dynamics of the monkeypox epidemic in 2022 and its relationship with the dynamics of the COVID-19 epidemic. In this study, we aimed to explore the temporal dynamic characteristics of the human monkeypox epidemic in 2022 and its relationship with those of the COVID-19 epidemic.

Methods

We used publicly available data of cumulative monkeypox cases and COVID-19 in 2022 and COVID-19 at the beginning of 2020 for model validation and further analyses. The time series data were fitted with a descriptive model using the sigmoid function. Two important indices (logistic growth rate and semi-saturation period) could be obtained from the model to evaluate the temporal characteristics of the epidemic.

Results

As for the monkeypox epidemic, the growth rate of infection and semi-saturation period showed a negative correlation (r = 0.47, p = 0.034). The growth rate also showed a significant relationship with the locations of the country in which it occurs [latitude (r = –0.45, p = 0.038)]. The development of the monkeypox epidemic did not show significant correlation compared with the that of COVID-19 in 2020 and 2022. When comparing the COVID-19 epidemic with that of monkeypox, a significantly longer semi-saturation period was observed for monkeypox, while a significant larger growth rate was found in COVID-19 in 2020.

Conclusions

This novel study investigates the temporal dynamics of the human monkeypox epidemic and its relationship with the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic, which could provide more appropriate guidance for local governments to plan and implement further fit-for-purpose epidemic prevention policies.
The burden of Hepatitis B virus infection in Kenya: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Makokha Grace Naswa , Zhang Peiyi , Hayes C. Nelson , Songok Elijah , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: January 2023

Background

Chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection causes liver cirrhosis and cancer and is a major public health concern in Kenya. However, so far no systematic review and meta-analysis has been conducted to estimate the burden of disease in the country. A better understanding of HBV infection prevalence will help the government implement efficient strategies at eliminating the disease. This systematic review and meta-analysis was therefore conducted to summarize and update the available information on the burden of HBV in Kenya.

Method

We systematically searched PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Scopus, African Journals OnLine, and Google Scholar databases to retrieve primary studies conducted between January 1990 and June 2021 that assessed the prevalence of HBV infection in Kenya based on measurement of the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg). Meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model where HBsAg prevalence was estimated at a 95% confidence interval (CI) after simple pooling analysis. Potential sources of heterogeneity were also investigated.

Results

Fifty studies were included in the meta-analysis with a sample size of 108448. The overall pooled prevalence estimate of HBV in Kenya was 7.8% (95% CI: 5.8–10.1). Subgroup analysis revealed the highest prevalence among patients presenting with jaundice at 41.7% (95% CI: 13.5–73.3) whereas blood donors had the lowest prevalence at 4.1% (95% CI: 2.4–6.3). Prevalence in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-infected individuals was 8.2% (95% CI: 5.8–11.0). An estimate of the total variation between studies revealed substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 99%) which could be explained by the study type, the risk status of individuals, and the region of study.

Conclusion

We present the first systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of HBV in Kenya. Our results show that the burden of HBV in Kenya is still enormous. This calls for an urgent need to implement public health intervention measures and strategic policies that will bring the disease under control and lead to final elimination.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=264859, identifier: CRD42021264859.
NV-centers in SiC: A solution for quantum computing technology?
Authors: Khazen Khashayar , von Bardeleben Hans Jurgen
Published: January 2023

Spin S = 1 centers in diamond and recently in silicon carbide, have been identified as interesting solid-state qubits for various quantum technologies. The largely-studied case of the nitrogen vacancy center (NV) in diamond is considered as a suitable qubit for most applications, but it is also known to have important drawbacks. More recently it has been shown that divacancies (VSiVC)° and NV (VSiNC)- centers in SiC can overcome many of these drawbacks such as compatibility with microelectronics technology, nanostructuring and n- and p-type doping. In particular, the 4H-SiC polytype is a widely used microelectronic semiconductor for power devices for which these issues are resolved and large-scale substrates (300mmm) are commercially available. The less studied 3C polytype, which can host the same centers (VV, NV), has an additional advantage, as it can be epitaxied on Si, which allows integration with Si technology. The spectral range in which optical manipulation and detection of the spin states are performed, is shifted from the visible, 632 nm for NV centers in diamond, to the near infrared 1200–1300 nm (telecom wavelength) for divacancies and NV centers in SiC. However, there are other crucial parameters for reliable information processing such as the spin-coherence times, deterministic placement on a chip and controlled defect concentrations. In this review, we revisit and compare some of the basic properties of NV centers in diamond and divacancies and NV centers in 4H and 3C-SiC.
Kinematic, arm-stroke efficiency, coordination, and energetic parameters of the 400-m front-crawl test: A meta-analysis
Authors: Correia Ricardo de Assis , Feitosa Wellington Gomes , Castro Flávio Antônio de Souza
Published: January 2023

Several studies have investigated biomechanical and energetic parameters in competitive swimming. Among these studies, it is possible to identify the 400-m front crawl as a useful test to assess these parameters. The present study provided a meta-analysis assessing representative variables for the kinematic, arm-stroke efficiency, coordination, and energetic parameters of the 400-m front crawl test. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus were the databases used to select the studies published between January 1970 and December 2022. Forty studies (n = 651 swimmers) were selected according to the eligibility and inclusion criteria. The variables chosen to represent each parameter were: clean swim speed (kinematics); index of coordination (coordination); arm-stroke efficiency (efficiency); and oxygen consumption (energetic). Swimming speed was moderate (1.34 m s−1) compared to the world's records performers. Thus, this speed contributed for the swimmers in remaining at high efficiency (35%), imposing a capture coordination model (index of coordination: −11%) with high oxygen consumption (58.8 ml·kg−1 min−1). High heterogeneity (>75%) was found among the outcome parameters in the studies. The different average speeds that represented the kinematic parameters seem to be the most responsible and influential in the arm-stroke efficiency, coordination, and energetic parameters for high 400-m freestyle (front crawl) performance. This meta-analysis can help researchers, coaches, and swimmers improving competitive performance, and developing further research in the sports sciences area, specifically in the swimming.
Postoperative results of laparoscopic lateral suspension operation: A clinical trials study
Authors: Aksin Şerif , Andan Cengiz
Published: January 2023

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery carries potential risks, and Laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) surgery is being performed in increasing numbers with advances in minimally invasive surgery. Our study aims to report the postoperative results of LLS operations.

Patients and Methods

41 patients at POP Q stage 2 and above underwent LLS operations in a tertiary center between 2017 and 2019. Postoperative patients 12 (12–37) months and older were evaluated in terms of anterior and apical compartments.

Results

In our study, laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) was applied to 41 patients. The mean age of all patients was 51.45 ± 11.51, and the operation time was 71.13 ± 18.70 min, The mean hospital stay was 1.35 ± 0.4 days. The apical compartment success rate was 78% and the anterior compartment success rate was 73%. In terms of patient satisfaction, 32 (78.1%) patients were satisfied, While 37 (90.1%) patients did not have abdominal mesh pain, 4 (9.9%) patients had mesh pain. Dyspareunia was not observed.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic lateral suspension in pop surgery; Considering the success rate below expectation, some patient groups can be applied as an alternative surgical method.
The Use of Spectral Indices to Recognize Waterlogged Agricultural Land in South Moravia, Czech Republic
Authors: Bednář Marek , Šarapatka Bořivoj , Netopil Patrik , Zeidler Miroslav , Hanousek Tomáš , Homolová Lucie
Published: January 2023

The agricultural landscape of the Czech Republic is facing climate change, and drought is among the most severe stress factors. Thousands of small ponds and naturally wet areas have been drained and transformed into agricultural parcels. Their restoration could increase the landscape’s resilience to climate change. Therefore, we describe the possibility of using hyperspectral aerial surveying for the identification of waterlogged areas in the agricultural landscape based on the example of one of the warmest and driest regions of the Czech Republic—the South Moravian region, an area where water retention in the landscape is highly relevant. Within our study, a total of 33 spectral indices related to the waterlogging of soil selected from previous studies were evaluated. The maximum entropy model (MAXENT) was used in the analysis of these indices. The analysis, which was carried out in several locations during different periods of the year (spring and autumn), shows the varying applicability of individual groups of indices. Regardless of the season, chlorophyll-based indices (MCARI—31.8, CARI—26.3, TCARI2—24.3 average percentage contribution) made the most significant contribution to the creation of probability maps of the occurrence of waterlogged areas. However, more accurate results could be achieved in the spring period by using the NVI index (40.5 average percentage contribution). The results show that remote sensing could be used for the identification of waterlogged sites, especially for initial identification, which should then be confirmed by field survey. Furthermore, the research points out the role of the LAI and chlorophyll content. According to the NVI, low LAI contributes the most to the probability of occurrence in the spring season, while chlorophyll-based indices prove to be the best, contributing high values, which is rather contradictory but could be resolved only by subsequent field research.
Modelling the Geographical Distribution Pattern of Apple Trees on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Xu Wei , Miao Yuqi , Zhu Shuaimeng , Cheng Jimin , Jin Jingwei
Published: January 2023

The Loess Plateau, known for its fragile ecosystems, is one of the traditional apple-producing regions in China. Although some management measures are needed to enhance sustainable agriculture in response to the rising pressure of climate change, the geographic distribution of apple trees considering multiple variables has not been considered. In this study, we used three software (the maximum entropy model, IDRISI, and ArcGIS) to simulate the potential distribution of suitable habitats and range shifts of apple trees in the near present and near future (i.e., the 2030s and the 2050s) under two climate scenarios (the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP)1-26 and SSP5-85), while taking a variety of environmental factors into account (e.g., temperature, precipitation, and terrain). After optimization, the class unsuitable habitat (CUH) changed the potential distribution pattern of apple trees on the Loess Plateau. Currently, the areas of lowly suitable habitat (LSH), moderately suitable habitat (MSH), highly suitable habitat (HSH), and CUH were 7.66 × 104, 2.80 × 104, 0.23 × 104, and 18.05 × 104 km2, respectively. Compared to the centroid estimated under the climate of 1970–2000, the suitability range of apple trees was displaced to the northwest in both the 2030s and the 2050s in SSP5-85 (i.e., 63.88~81.30 km), causing a larger displacement in distance than SSP1-26 (i.e., 40.05~50.32 km). This study demonstrates the possible changes in the spatial distribution of apple trees on the Loess Plateau in the near future and may provide a strong basis for future policy making.
An Insight into a Shang Dynasty Bronze Vessel by Nuclear Techniques
Authors: Salvemini Filomena , Pastuovic Zeljko , Stopic Attila , Kim Min-Jung , Gatenby Sue
Published: January 2023

A bronze wine vessel attributed to 1600–1046 B.C., Shang dynasty in China, an object from the East Asian Collection of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences in Sydney (Australia), was studied using a non-destructive scientific analytical protocol based on the synergic combination of nuclear techniques. Gamma spectrometry, neutron-computed tomography, and proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy were applied to gain a better insight into the structural and compositional features of the artefact to prove its authenticity. Gamma spectrometry was performed to assess the risk of excessive sample activation induced by long exposure to the neutron beam and to determine the bulk elemental composition. Based on neutron-computed tomography, the porosities and the thickness of the metal wall were evaluated and found consistent with the piece-mould casting technology adopted by craftsmen during the Shang dynasty in China. Finally, PIXE spectroscopy demonstrated the use of a ternary (copper–tin-leaded) alloy and the nature of mineralisation on the surface.
Analysis of a New Twin Hybrid Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Huang Jiafeng , Choi Hyeung-Sik , Jung Dong-Wook , Choo Ki-Beom , Cho Hyunjoon , Anh Phan Huy Nam , Zhang Ruochen , Kim Joon-Young , Ji Daehyeong , Park Jung-Hyeun
Published: January 2023

The twin hybrid autonomous underwater vehicle (THAUV) is a novel type of unmanned underwater platform that consists of a twin torpedo-shaped hull and is actuated by two buoyancy engines and two thrusters proposed in this paper. The THAUV was designed to have faster speed generated by the two buoyancy engines and two thrusters. The two buoyancy engines on each hull and the airfoil are mainly responsible for the diving and surfacing motion, and the thrusters drive the THAUV along the horizontal plane. The THAUV is capable of carrying more instrumentation and energy than a conventional hybrid autonomous underwater vehicle (HAUV) with a single buoyancy engine such that the THAUV can perform more exploration tasks and operate for a longer period in a one-time operation. Different from other unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) with two airfoils or wings, the THAUV has a single airfoil connecting the twin hull such that it does not require connecting bars and additional airfoils. For this reason, the structure of THAUV is more compact and simpler. In this paper, a new compact THAUV is designed and CFD simulation is used to obtain the hydrodynamic parameters of THAUV operation in water. The motion model of the THAUV is also established and the operating parameters of the THAUV are obtained by simulation.
Comparative Analysis for Slope Stability by Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Nanehkaran Yaser A. , Licai Zhu , Chengyong Jin , Chen Junde , Anwar Sheraz , Azarafza Mohammad , Derakhshani Reza
Published: January 2023

Earth slopes’ stability analysis is a key task in geotechnical engineering that provides a detailed view of the slope conditions used to implement appropriate stabilizations. In the stability analysis process, calculating the safety factor (F.S) plays an essential part in the stability assessment, which guarantees operations’ success. Providing accurate and reliable F.S can be used to improve the stability analysis procedure as well as stabilizations. In this regard, researchers used computational intelligent methodologies to reach highly accurate F.S calculations. The presented study focused on the F.S estimation process and attempted to provide a comparative analysis based on computational intelligence and machine learning methods. In this regard, the well-known multilayer perceptron (MLP), decision tree (DT), support vector machines (SVM), and random forest (RF) learning algorithms were used to predict/calculate F.S for the earth slopes. These machine learning classifiers have a strong capability predict the F.S under certain conditions for slope failures and uncertainties. These models were implemented on a dataset containing 100 earth slopes’ stabilities, recorded based on F.S from various locations in the provinces of Fars, Isfahan, and Tehran in Iran, which were randomly divided into the training and testing datasets. These predictive models were validated by Janbu’s limit equilibrium analysis method (LEM) and GeoStudio commercial software. Regarding the study’s results, MLP (accuracy = 0.901/precision = 0.90) provides more accurate results to predict the F.S than other classifiers, with good agreement with LEM results. The SVM algorithm follows MLP (accuracy = 0.873/precision = 0.85). Regarding the estimated loss function, MLP obtained a 0.29 average loss in the F.S prediction process, which is the lowest rate. The SVM, DT, and RF obtained 0.41, 0.62, and 0.45 losses, respectively. This article tried to fill the gap in traditional analysis procedures based on advanced procedures in slope stability assessments.
The Effect of Atmospheric Chloride Ions on the Corrosion Fatigue of Metal Wire Clips in Power Grids
Authors: Zhang Yifeng , Chen Wei , Yan Hanbing , Wang Xuefeng , Zhang Hanping , Wu Shijing
Published: January 2023

Corrosion fatigue is an important factor that limits the life of grid materials including wire clips. In order to study the effect of corrosion fatigue and to select suitable grid steels, this paper focuses on the corrosion fatigue properties of Q235 carbon steel, Q235 galvanized steel, and 316L stainless steel in the corrosive environments of air, 2wt% NaCl, 5wt% NaCl, and 8wt% NaCl. Through the fatigue test in the corrosive environment, and the surface morphology scanning and microstructure observation of the fracture, the following conclusions are drawn: the three materials are more susceptible to corrosion fatigue in the Cl− environment, and the higher the Cl− concentration, the greater the likelihood of fracture caused by corrosion fatigue for these three materials. By analyzing the surface roughness, dimples, and cracks in the microstructure, it is found that 316L stainless steel is highly sensitive to Cl− corrosion under cyclic stress, and Q235 galvanized steel is more resistant to Cl−. By plotting the stress fatigue life curve of Q235 galvanized steel, it is found that the corrosion fatigue life decreases as the Cl− concentration increases. For wire clips in areas with severe Cl− pollution, Q235 galvanized steel should be selected to achieve the best anti-corrosion fatigue effect; at the same time, the original parts should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner based on the predicted corrosion fatigue life.
A Hybrid Approach for Extracting Large-Scale and Accurate Built-Up Areas Using SAR and Multispectral Data
Authors: Azmi Rida , Chenal Jérôme , Amar Hicham , Tekouabou Koumetio Cédric Stéphane , Diop El Bachir
Published: January 2023

This article examines the use of multisensor data fusion for land classification in three Moroccan cities. The method employs a Random Forest classification algorithm based on multispectral, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and derived land surface temperature (LST) data. The study compares the proposed approach to existing datasets on impervious surfaces (Global Artificial Impervious Area—GAIA, Global Human Settlement Layer—GHSL, and Global 30 m Impervious Surfaces Dynamic Dataset—GIS30D) using traditional evaluation metrics and a common training and validation dataset. The results indicate that the proposed approach has a higher precision (as measured by the F-score) than the existing datasets. The results of this study could be used to improve current databases and establish an urban data hub for impervious surfaces in Africa. The dynamic information of impervious surfaces is useful in urban planning as an indication of the intensity of human activities and economic development.
Improving Interfaces in All-Solid-State Supercapacitors Using Polymer-Added Activated Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Sharma Shrishti , Kaur Gurpreet , Dalvi Anshuman
Published: January 2023

Solvent-free all-solid-state supercapacitors have recently received attention. Despite their highly specific capacitance, they suffer issues related to the solid–solid interface that degrade their performance during prolonged cycling. Here, we propose a novel strategy for improving the electrode–electrolyte interface by introducing a small amount of polymer into the activated carbon-based electrode. An electrode composition of 80AC:8SA:7AB:5[PEO0.95 (LiClO4)0.05]—where AC, SA, and AB stand for activated carbon, sodium alginate binder, and acetylene black, respectively—is optimized. A composite membrane—viz., PEO-LiClO4 reinforced with 38 wt% NASICON structured nano crystallites of Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3—is used as a solid electrolyte. Incorporating a small amount of salt-in-polymer (95PEO-5 LiClO4) in the electrode matrix leads to a smooth interface formation, thereby improving the performance parameters of the all-solid-state supercapacitors (ASSCs). A typical supercapacitor with a polymer-incorporated electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of ~102 Fg−1 at a discharge current of 1.5 Ag−1 and an operating voltage of 2 V near room temperature. These ASSCs also exhibit relatively better galvanostatic charge–discharge cycling, coulombic efficiency, specific energy, and power in comparison to those based on conventional activated carbon.
SDF-1α-Releasing Microspheres Effectively Extend Stem Cell Homing after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bajdak-Rusinek Karolina , Fus-Kujawa Agnieszka , Buszman Piotr , Żyła-Uklejewicz Dorota , Jelonek Katarzyna , Musiał-Kulik Monika , Fernandez Carlos , Michalak Magdalena , George Kurian , Kasperczyk Janusz , Buszman Paweł
Published: January 2023

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is one of the main focuses in today’s healthcare due to its implications and complications, and it is predicted to be increasing in prevalence due to the ageing population. Although the conventional pharmacological and interventional methods for the treatment of IHD presents with success in the clinical setting, the long-term complications of cardiac insufficiency are on a continual incline as a result of post-infarction remodeling of the cardiac tissue. The migration and involvement of stem cells to the cardiac muscle, followed by differentiation into cardiac myocytes, has been proven to be the natural process, though at a slow rate. SDF-1α is a novel candidate to mobilize stem cells homing to the ischemic heart. Endogenous SDF-1α levels are elevated after myocardial infarction, but their presence gradually decreases after approximately seven days. Additional administration of SDF-1α-releasing microspheres could be a tool for the extension of the time the stem cells are in the cardiac tissue after myocardial infarction. This, in turn, could constitute a novel therapy for more efficient regeneration of the heart muscle after injury. Through this practical study, it has been shown that the controlled release of SDF-1α from biodegradable microspheres into the pericardial sac fourteen days after myocardial infarction increases the concentration of exogenous SDF-1α, which persists in the tissue much longer than the level of endogenous SDF-1α. In addition, administration of SDF-1α-releasing microspheres increased the expression of the factors potentially involved in the involvement and retention of myocardial stem cells, which constitutes vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), stem cell factor (SCF), and vascular cell adhesion molecules (VCAMs) at the site of damaged tissue. This exhibits the possibility of combating the basic limitations of cell therapy, including ineffective stem cell implantation and the ability to induce the migration of endogenous stem cells to the ischemic cardiac tissue and promote heart repair.
Fetal Fibroblast Transplantation via Ablative Fractional Laser Irradiation Reduces Scarring
Authors: Sakai Shigeki , Aramaki-Hattori Noriko , Kishi Kazuo
Published: January 2023

Scar treatments include fractional laser treatment, cell transplantation, surgery, skin needling, and dermal fillers. Fractional laser treatments are used to reduce scarring and blurring. Cell transplantation is promising, with mature fibroblasts and adipose-derived stem cells being used clinically, while embryonic fibroblasts are used experimentally. Herein, we developed a combination of ablative CO2 (carbon dioxide) fractional laser and cell transplantation for the treatment of scars. Eight-week-old male C57Bl/6 mice were used to create a full-layer skin defect in the back skin and create scars. The scar was then irradiated using a CO2 fractional laser. The cells were then transplanted onto the scar surface and sealed with a film agent. The transplanted cells were GFP-positive murine fetal fibroblasts (FB), fetal fibroblasts with a long-term sphere-forming culture (LS), and fetal skin with a short-term sphere-forming culture (SS). After transplantation, green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive cells were scattered in the dermal papillary layer and subcutis in all the groups. LS significantly reduced the degree of scarring, which was closest to normal skin. In conclusion, the combination of ablative fractional laser irradiation and fetal fibroblast transplantation allowed us to develop new methods for scar treatment.
Acousto−Optics: Recent Studies and Medical Applications
Authors: Omidali Mohammadreza , Mardanshahi Ali , Särestöniemi Mariella , Zhao Zuomin , Myllylä Teemu
Published: January 2023

Development of acousto−optic (AO) techniques has made progress in recent years across a range of medical application fields, especially in improving resolution, detection speed, and imaging depth. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in AO−based techniques that have been presented after the previously published review in 2017. The survey covers a description of theoretical modeling strategies and numerical simulation methods as well as recent applications in medical fields. It also provides a comparison between different techniques in terms of complexity, achieved depth in tissue, and resolution. In addition, a comparison between different numerical simulation methods will be outlined. Additionally, a number of challenges faced by AO techniques are considered, particularly in the context of realistic in vivo imaging. Finally, the paper discusses prospects of AO−based medical diagnosis methods.
The NOTCH-RIPK4-IRF6-ELOVL4 Axis Suppresses Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yan Yue , Gauthier Marc-Andre , Malik Ahmad , Fotiadou Iosifina , Ostrovski Michael , Dervovic Dzana , Ghadban Logine , Tsai Ricky , Gish Gerald , Loganathan Sampath Kumar , Schramek Daniel
Published: January 2023

Receptor-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 4 (RIPK4) and its kinase substrate the transcription factor interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) play critical roles in the development and maintenance of the epidermis. In addition, ourselves and others have previously shown that RIPK4 is a NOTCH target gene that suppresses the development of cutaneous and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). In this study, we used autochthonous mouse models, where the expression of Pik3caH1047R oncogene predisposes the skin and oral cavity to tumor development, and show that not only loss of Ripk4, but also loss of its kinase substrate Irf6, triggers rapid SCC development. In vivo rescue experiments using Ripk4 or a kinase-dead Ripk4 mutant showed that the tumor suppressive function of Ripk4 is dependent on its kinase activity. To elucidate critical mediators of this tumor suppressive pathway, we performed transcriptional profiling of Ripk4-deficient epidermal cells followed by multiplexed in vivo CRISPR screening to identify genes with tumor suppressive capabilities. We show that Elovl4 is a critical Notch-Ripk4-Irf6 downstream target gene, and that Elovl4 loss itself triggers SCC development. Importantly, overexpression of Elovl4 suppressed tumor growth of Ripk4-deficient keratinocytes. Altogether, our work identifies a potent Notch1-Ripk4-Irf6-Elovl4 tumor suppressor axis.
Relevant Study: Patient and Clinician Perspectives on Clinically-Meaningful Outcomes in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Pihlak Rille , Frizziero Melissa , Mak Soo Yit Gustin , Nuttall Christina , Lamarca Angela , Hubner Richard A. , Valle Juan W. , McNamara Mairéad G.
Published: January 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis and significant symptom burden. This prospective observational study aimed to evaluate expectations and priorities of patients with advanced PDAC and their clinicians through a study survey and two quality of life (QoL) questionnaires (QLQ-C30 and PAN26) at three time-points: baseline (T1), before (T2) and after (T3) their 1st on-treatment CT scan. Over a 1-year period, 106 patients were approached, 71 patients and 12 clinicians were recruited. Choosing between treatment options, patients prioritised: 54% overall survival (OS), 26% balance between side-effects and OS, 15% could not choose and 5% favoured symptom control. These were significantly different from the clinician’s answers (p < 0.001). Patients who prioritised OS had higher symptom burden (p = 0.03) and shorter OS compared to those who prioritised balance (p = 0.01). Most (86%) patients had personal goals they wanted to reach; clinicians knew of these in 12% of instances. Patient and clinicians’ views regarding survival improvement from chemotherapy were significantly different: 81% of clinicians and 12% of patients thought 1–2 or 3–6 months extension, 58% of patients and 0% physicians thought 1–5 or >5 years (p < 0.001). At T1, patients had low QoL and worst symptoms were: ‘Future worries’, ‘planning of activities’, fatigue and pain. Patients were willing to accept significantly higher amounts of side-effects as a trade-off for extra time, than clinicians thought (p < 0.001). Overall, there are significant discrepancies between patient and clinicians’ views about the aims, priorities and expected extension of life.
Is No. 12a Lymph Node Dissection Compliance Necessary in Patients Who Undergo D2 Gastrectomy for Gastric Adenocarcinomas? A Population-Based Retrospective Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Zhu Yun-Feng , Liu Kai , Zhang Wei-Han , Song Xiao-Hai , Peng Bo-Qiang , Liao Xu-Liang , Chen Xiao-Long , Zhao Lin-Yong , Yang Kun , Hu Jian-Kun
Published: January 2023

LN dissection is essential for accurately staging and improving GC patient prognosis. However, the compliance rate for No. 12a LND in practice is low, and its necessity is controversial. Data from GC patients who underwent total gastrectomy (TG)/distal gastrectomy (DG) plus D2 lymphadenectomy between January 2000 and December 2017 at West China Hospital, Sichuan University were reviewed. No. 12a LND noncompliance’s effect on the long-term prognosis of patients with GC after D2 gastrectomy was explored. Of the 2788 patients included, No. 12a LND noncompliance occurred in 1753 patients (62.9%). Among 1035 patients with assessable LNs from station 12a, 98 (9.5%) had positive LNs detected at station 12a. No. 12a LN metastasis patients (stage IV not included) had significantly better overall survival (OS) than TNM stage IV patients (p = 0.006). Patients with No. 12a LND compliance had a significantly higher OS than those without, both before (p < 0.001) and after (p < 0.001) PSM. Cox multivariate analysis confirmed that No. 12a LND noncompliance was an independent prognostic factor before (HR 1.323, 95% CI 1.171–1.496, p < 0.001) and after (HR 1.353, 95% CI 1.173–1.560, p < 0.001) PSM. In conclusion, noncompliance with No. 12a LND compromised the long-term survival of patients who underwent D2 gastrectomy for GC.
Catalytic Oxidation of Phosphine by Aqueous Copper–Ammonia Complexes
Authors: Borangazieva Akbope K. , Boleubayev Yerzhan A. , Ibraimova Zhuldyz U. , Itkulova Sholpan S. , Polimbetova Gulshara S.
Published: January 2023

The furnace gas resulting from the electrothermal production of yellow phosphorus contains up to 95% CO, 2% O2, 2% H2, and 0.3–4.0% impurities, including phosphine (PH3), yellow phosphorus (P4), and hydrogen sulphide (H2S), which are characterized by flammability, explosion hazardousness, corrosiveness, and high toxicity. The presence of toxic impurities does not allow the use of waste gases from phosphorus production, which are mainly composed of valuable carbon monoxide, as chemical raw materials and/or process fuel. The authors propose a method for the purification of furnace gas from the main toxic component, phosphine, by its oxidisation using aqueous copper–ammonia complexes as a catalyst. This approach allows the cleaning process to be conducted under mild conditions. The degree of purification of the model furnace gas from P components is 90–99%, depending on the process conditions.
Circulating Nitric Oxide and Metabolic Syndrome in Arab Children and Adolescents: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Amer Osama , Sabico Shaun , Khattak Malak , Al-Daghri Nasser
Published: January 2023

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a cluster of known cardiometabolic risk factors, which elevates the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults and, only recently, even in children and adolescents. Circulating nitric oxide (NOx) has been observed to influence MetS risk factors in adults, but this has been scarcely investigated in children. The aim of the present study was to determine whether circulating NOx levels correlate with known components of MetS in Arab children and adolescents. Methods: Anthropometrics, serum NOx, lipid profile and fasting glucose levels were measured in 740 Saudi Arabs aged 10–17 years (68.8% girls). The presence of MetS was screened using the criteria of de Ferranti et al. Results: Overall, serum NOx levels were significantly higher in MetS participants compared to non-MetS (25.7 µmol/L (10.1–46.7) versus 11.9 µmol/L (5.5–22.9), p < 0.001) even after adjustments for age, BMI and sex. With the exception of elevated blood pressure, higher circulating NOx significantly increased the odds for MetS and its components. Lastly, receiver operating characteristics (ROC) showed that NOx, as a diagnostic marker for MetS, had good sensitivity and was higher in boys than girls (all MetS participants: area under the curve (AUC) = 0.68, p < 0.001), (girls with MetS: AUC = 0.62, p = 0.002), (boys with MetS: AUC = 0.83, p < 0.001)). Conclusions: MetS and most of its components were significantly associated with circulating NOx levels in Arab adolescents and may be a promising diagnostic biomarker for MetS.
Anthropometry and Physical Performance in 13-Year-Old Australian Talent-Identified Male and Female Athletes Compared to an Age-Matched General Population Cohort
Authors: Larkin Paul , Carlon Todd , Sortino Benjamin , Greer Sam , Cuttiford Tennille , Wijekulasuriya Gyan , Pane Calvin
Published: January 2023

Talent-identified male and female athletes are assumed to have greater speed and power than the general population at a given age. However, a comparison of the jump and sprint performance of an Australian cohort of male and female youth athletes from various sports to age-matched controls has not occurred. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare anthropometric and physical performance markers between ~13-year-old talent-identified youth athletes and general population Australian youth. The anthropometry and physical performance in talent-identified youth athletes (n = 136, 83 males) and general population youth (n = 250, 135 males) were tested during the first month of the school year in an Australian high school within a specialized sports academy. Talent-identified females were taller (p < 0.001; d = 0.60), sprinted faster (20 m: p < 0.001; d = −1.16), and jumped higher (p < 0.001; d = 0.88) than general population youth females. Similarly, talent-identified males sprinted faster (20 m: p < 0.001; d = −0.78) and jumped higher (p < 0.001; d = 0.87) than general population youth males, but were not taller (p = 0.13; d = 0.21). Body mass was not different between groups for males (p = 0.310) or females (p = 0.723). Overall, youth, particularly females, who are trained in a variety of sports, exhibit greater speed and power during early adolescence compared to their age-matched peers, with anthropometric differences only occurring in females at 13 years of age. Whether talented athletes are selected because they exhibit these traits or whether speed and power are developed through sport participation requires further investigation.
HLA-C Genotyping Reveals Haplotype C*07 as a Potential Biomarker of Late Psoriasis Onset in Moroccan Patients
Authors: Benlabsir Chaimaa , Riyad Myriam , Saik Imane El Idrissi , Ettayebi Hanaa , Aazzane Oussama , Nassar Kawtar , Zaher Soukaina , Bennani Siham , Admou Brahim , Housbane Samy , Sadki Khalid , Chiheb Soumiya , Fellah Hassan
Published: January 2023

Psoriasis still has an unknown etiology. Genetic predisposition shows the association between HLA-Cw6 allele and psoriasis. Although biotherapies have been proven effective in psoriasis treatment, methotrexate (MTX) is still used as a first-line systemic therapy due to its efficacy/affordability, but the differential response to MTX is mostly related to interindividual genetic variability and remains an issue. Our study aimed to analyze HLA-C allele frequencies in a sample of Moroccan psoriatic patients and assess the therapeutic response to MTX. Whole blood of 54 Moroccan psoriatic patients was collected and DNA was extracted. Patients’ HLA-C locus was genotyped by PCR-SSO. Results were analyzed with Luminex xMAP Technology and Match-it DNA Evolution 3.4. HLA-C typing results of 77 sex- and age-matched unrelated non-psoriatic healthy subjects were included. We observed no difference in the allelic distribution of HLA-C between patients and healthy controls, suggesting that none of the HLA-C alleles were significantly associated with psoriasis. Moreover, the HLA-C*07 allele was associated with a late age at disease onset (>30 years old) (p = 0.007). No statistically significant association was found between HLA-C allele expression and response to MTX, despite a higher frequency of HLA-C*06 in responders compared to non-responders. Thus, HLA-C*07 could be a biomarker of late psoriasis onset in the Moroccan population.
Pathogenesis, Diagnostic Challenges, and Risk Factors of Pott’s Disease
Authors: Glassman Ira , Nguyen Kevin , Giess Jane , Alcantara Cheldon , Booth Michelle , Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: January 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) prevalence is increasing in developed nations and continuing to cause significant mortality in low- and middle-income countries. As a result of the uptick in cases, there also exists an increased prevalence of extrapulmonary TB. TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). When M. tb disseminates to the vertebral column, it is called Pott’s disease or spinal TB. The frequency, symptoms, and severity of the disease range by the location of the spine and the region of the affected vertebrae. While the current literature shows that timely diagnosis is crucial to reduce the morbidity and mortality from Pott’s disease, there is a lack of specific clinical diagnostic criteria for Pott’s disease, and the symptoms may be very non-specific. Studies have shown that novel molecular diagnostic methods are effective and timely choices. Research has implicated the risk factors for the susceptibility and severity of Pott’s disease, such as HIV and immunosuppression, poverty, and malnutrition. Based on the current literature available, our group aims to summarize the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnostic challenges, as well as the known risk factors for Pott’s disease within this literature review.
Synthesis of Chitosan-Coated Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 Nanoparticles for Contrast Enhancement in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Worawong Apichaya , Onreabroy Wandee
Published: January 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique that is widely used for the identification of internal organs, and for the medical diagnosis of tumors and cancer in the body. In general, gadolinium is used as a contrast agent to enhance image contrasting in MRI. In this study, chitosan-coated Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized using a co-precipitation method with a calcination temperature of 500 °C. The nanoparticles were then coated with chitosan and treated under an external magnetic field of 400 mT. X-ray diffractometer results showed that the chitosan-coated Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles had a pure phase of Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 at the (3 1 1) plane, with an average particle size of 26 nm. The presence of chitosan on the Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, which showed the primary amine and secondary amine functional groups of chitosan. Here, coating the nanoparticle with chitosan not only prevented nanoparticle agglomeration, but also improved the particle surface charge and reduced the particle toxicity for in vivo testing. Vibrating sample magnetometer results showed that the maximum magnetization value of the magnetic field-assisted process was increased to 8.85 emu/g. Finally, chitosan-coated Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles with 400 mT of magnetic field assistance increased the average brightness in MRI of mouse liver by 21% compared to using gadolinium.