bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support medication decision-making and quality of life in women with breast cancer: protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Smith Samuel G. , Ellison Rachel , Hall Louise , Clark Jane , Hartley Suzanne , Mason Ellen , Metherell Jamie , Olivier Catherine , Napp Vicky , Naik Jay , Buckley Sarah , Hirst Charlotte , Hartup Sue , Neal Richard D. , Velikova Galina , Farrin Amanda , Collinson Michelle , Graham Christopher D.
Published: February 2022

Background

Adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy is affected by medication side-effects and associated distress. Previous interventions focused on educating women to enhance adherence have proved minimally effective. We co-designed an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention to enhance medication decision-making and quality of life by targeting a broader range of factors, including side-effect management and psychological flexibility. This study aims to establish key trial parameters, assess the acceptability of the intervention and the extent to which it can be delivered with fidelity, and to demonstrate “proof of principle” regarding its efficacy on primary and process outcomes.

Methods

The ACTION intervention includes an individual 1:1 ACT session followed by three group sessions involving 8–10 women and two practitioner psychologists. Participants are also provided with access to a website containing evidence-based methods for self-managing side-effects. The ACT sessions were adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to be remotely delivered via video conferencing software. To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention, a multi-site, exploratory, two-arm, individually randomised external pilot trial with a nested qualitative study will be undertaken. Eighty women with early stage breast cancer prescribed adjuvant endocrine therapy will be randomised (1:1) to receive treatment as usual or treatment as usual plus the ACTION intervention. The planned future primary outcome is medication adherence assessed by the ASK-12 measure. Progression to a phase III RCT will be based on criteria related to recruitment and follow-up rates, acceptability to patients, competency and fidelity of delivery, and proof of principle for change in medication adherence.

Discussion

This external pilot trial will be used to ascertain the feasibility of undertaking a future phase III RCT to definitively evaluate an ACT-based intervention to support medication taking behaviour and quality of life in women with early stage breast cancer on adjuvant endocrine therapy.

Trial registration

ISRCTN: 12027752. Registered 24 December 2020,https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN12027752
A transcriptomic reevaluation of the accessory olfactory organ in Bichir (Polypterus senegalus)
Authors: Sakuma Atsuhiro , Zhang Zicong , Suzuki Eri , Nagasawa Tatsuki , Nikaido Masato
Published: February 2022

Fish possess one olfactory organ called the olfactory epithelium (OE), by which various chemical substances are detected. On the other hand, tetrapods possess two independent olfactory organs called the main olfactory epithelium (MOE) and vomeronasal organ (VNO), each of which mainly detects general odorants and pheromones, respectively. Traditionally, the VNO, so-called concentrations of vomeronasal neurons, was believed to have originated in tetrapods. However, recent studies have identified a primordial VNO in lungfish, implying that the origin of the VNO was earlier than traditionally expected. In this study, we examined the presence/absence of the VNO in the olfactory organ of bichir (Polypterus senegalus), which is the most ancestral group of extant bony vertebrates. In particular, we conducted a transcriptomic evaluation of the accessory olfactory organ (AOO), which is anatomically separated from the main olfactory organ (MOO) in bichir. As a result, several landmark genes specific to the VNO and MOE in tetrapods were both expressed in the MOO and AOO, suggesting that these organs were not functionally distinct in terms of pheromone and odorant detection. Instead, differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis showed that DEGs in AOO were enriched in genes for cilia movement, implying its additional and specific function in efficient water uptake into the nasal cavity other than chemosensing. This transcriptomic study provides novel insight into the long-standing question of AOO function in bichir and suggests that VNO originated in the lineage of lobe-finned fish during vertebrate evolution.
How to achieve an optimal alignment in medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy?
Authors: Kang Byoung Youl , Lee Do Kyung , Kim Hyeon Soo , Wang Joon Ho
Published: February 2022

Medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) is a widely used surgical treatment option for medial compartmental osteoarthritis with varus deformity. It is important that proper lower limb alignment is achieved. However, there has been no consensus about an optimal alignment in MOWHTO. Most studies suggest that achieving valgus alignment is necessary, and recent studies support slight valgus mechanical alignment of less than 3° of mechanical femorotibial angle. Overcorrection and undercorrection is not recommended for achieving good surgical outcomes. To prevent undercorrection and overcorrection in MOWHTO, the method of placing the weight-bearing line in the target range must be precise. There are several ways to place a weight-bearing line within the target range. While the most important factor for a successful MOWHTO is achieving an ideal mechanical axis correction, there are a few other factors to consider, including joint line obliquity, posterior tibial slope, ligament balancing, and patellar height. Several factors exist that lead to undercorrection and overcorrection. Preoperative amount of varus deformity, lateral hinge fracture, and fixation failure can result in undercorrection, while medial soft tissue laxity and the amount of correction angle and target point beyond hypomochlion can result in overcorrection. This study aimed to review the literature on optimal alignment in MOWHTO and report on the factors to be considered to prevent correction errors and how to achieve an optimal alignment.
Evolution of cooperation in prisoner's dilemma game under the coupling of aspiration and imitation rules
Authors: Wang XiaoLin , Li Cong , Fan SuoHai
Published: February 2022

Considering the important roles played by aspiration and imitation rules, we explore how cooperation evolves in the spatial prisoner's dilemma game. In detail, the strategy updating rule couples the inner aspiration payoff and the external neighborâs payoff through the parameter α. Intriguingly, we find that there exists an optimal value of α leading to the highest density of cooperators for each aspiration level A. By analyzing the dynamical strategy changes of the system, we find that an optimal α helps individuals form cooperator clusters and curbs the further spread of high-payoff defectors, and thus improves the density of cooperators. Moreover, when

, the optimal value of α, which leads to the highest density of cooperators, decreases with A, the optimal range of α gradually expands and the highest cooperation level is on the rise.
The world beyond physics: How big is it?
Authors: Succi Sauro
Published: February 2022

We discuss the possibility that the complexity of biological systems may lie beyond the predictive capabilities of theoretical physics: in Stuart Kauffman's words, there is a World Beyond Physics (WBP). It is argued that, in view of modern developments of statistical mechanics, the WBP is smaller than one might anticipate from the standpoint of fundamental physical theories.
Managing Central Nervous System Tumors During Pregnancy
Authors: Gatson Na Tosha N.
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article discusses current recommendations and special considerations for the management of central nervous system (CNS) tumors in pregnant women and provides case vignettes to emphasize important clinical concepts.

RECENT FINDINGS

Given that nearly 60% of all intracranial and spinal cord tumors, including both primary and metastatic tumor types, malignant or benign, are diagnosed in women, it is equitable to bring attention to the unique management considerations that pertain to women during specific phases of their lifespan, such as pregnancy. The pregnancy phase is marked by changes in hormonal, immunologic, and other physiologic responses. Although substantial evidence supports a pregnancy influence on tumor oncogenicity, the cumulative effect of the pregnancy state on brain tumor biology remains elusive. Furthermore, as innovative cancer treatments and surveillance technologies expand, providers must consider potential new risks to safe pregnancy maintenance. This article reviews pregnancy considerations in CNS tumor care and offers best practice approaches and considerations.

Informed neuro-oncology practices on safer surgical, radiation, medical, device, and imaging techniques is of critical importance to pregnancy and fertility maintenance in cancer survivors. Expanding this knowledge relies on advocacy and a commitment to develop equitable and multidisciplinary research within the field. This also requires a focus on patient-reported outcomes and patient-centered conversations to best care for pregnant women with CNS tumors.
Revascularization Is Associated With a Reduced Stroke Risk in Patients With Sickle Cell–Associated Moyamoya Syndrome
Authors: Newman Sarah , McMahon J. Tanner , Boulter Jason H. , Malcolm James G. , Revuelta Barbero Juan M. , Chern Joshua J. , Barrow Daniel L. , Pradilla Gustavo
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND:

Moyamoya syndrome refers to a progressive stenosis of the internal carotid arteries and can be associated with sickle cell disease. These codiagnoses result in severe risk for stroke, even in patients on optimal medical management. Surgical revascularization has been shown to be safe in small case series.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the efficacy of revascularization with direct comparison to a medically managed control group within a single institution.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort study of medically managed vs surgically revascularized patients with moyamoya syndrome and sickle cell disease was conducted. Demographic data and outcomes including the number of prediagnosis, postdiagnosis, and postrevascularization strokes were collected. Risk factors for stroke were identified using a binary logistic regression model, and stroke rates and mortality between groups were compared.

RESULTS:

Of the 29 identified patients, 66% were medically managed and 34% underwent surgical revascularization (50% direct and 50% indirect). Calculated stroke rates were 1 per 5.37 (medical management), 1 per 3.43 (presurgical revascularization), and 1 per 23.14 patient-years (postsurgical revascularization). There was 1 surgical complication with no associated permanent deficits. No risk factors for stroke after time of diagnosis were found to be significant.

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study demonstrate that revascularization is associated with a significant reduction in stroke risk, both relative to prerevascularization rates and compared with medical management. According to these findings, surgical revascularization offers a safe and durable preventative therapy for stroke and should be pursued aggressively in this patient population.
Anatomy and development of the pectoral fin vascular network in the zebrafish
Authors: Paulissen Scott M. , Castranova Daniel M. , Krispin Shlomo M. , Burns Margaret C. , Menéndez Javier , Torres-Vázquez Jesús , Weinstein Brant M.
Published: February 2022

The pectoral fins of teleost fish are analogous structures to human forelimbs, and the developmental mechanisms directing their initial growth and patterning are conserved between fish and tetrapods. The forelimb vasculature is crucial for limb function, and it appears to play important roles during development by promoting development of other limb structures, but the steps leading to its formation are poorly understood. In this study, we use high-resolution imaging to document the stepwise assembly of the zebrafish pectoral fin vasculature. We show that fin vascular network formation is a stereotyped, choreographed process that begins with the growth of an initial vascular loop around the pectoral fin. This loop connects to the dorsal aorta to initiate pectoral vascular circulation. Pectoral fin vascular development continues with concurrent formation of three elaborate vascular plexuses, one in the distal fin that develops into the fin-ray vasculature and two near the base of the fin in association with the developing fin musculature. Our findings detail a complex, yet highly choreographed, series of steps involved in the development of a complete, functional, organ-specific vascular network.
PRDM paralogs antagonistically balance Wnt/β-catenin activity during craniofacial chondrocyte differentiation
Authors: Shull Lomeli C. , Lencer Ezra S. , Kim Hyun Min , Goyama Susumu , Kurokawa Mineo , Costello James C. , Jones Kenneth , Artinger Kristin B.
Published: February 2022

Cranial neural crest cell (NCC)-derived chondrocyte precursors undergo a dynamic differentiation and maturation process to establish a scaffold for subsequent bone formation, alterations in which contribute to congenital birth defects. Here, we demonstrate that transcription factor and histone methyltransferase proteins Prdm3 and Prdm16 control the differentiation switch of cranial NCCs to craniofacial cartilage. Loss of either paralog results in hypoplastic and disorganized chondrocytes due to impaired cellular orientation and polarity. We show that these proteins regulate cartilage differentiation by controlling the timing of Wnt/β-catenin activity in strikingly different ways: Prdm3 represses whereas Prdm16 activates global gene expression, although both act by regulating Wnt enhanceosome activity and chromatin accessibility. Finally, we show that manipulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pharmacologically or generating prdm3−/−;prdm16−/− double mutants rescues craniofacial cartilage defects. Our findings reveal upstream regulatory roles for Prdm3 and Prdm16 in cranial NCCs to control Wnt/β-catenin transcriptional activity during chondrocyte differentiation to ensure proper development of the craniofacial skeleton.
Behavioural analysis of swarming mosquitoes reveals high hearing sensitivity in Anopheles coluzzii
Authors: Feugère Lionel , Roux Olivier , Gibson Gabriella
Published: February 2022

Mosquitoes of many species mate in station-keeping swarms. Mating chases ensue as soon as a male detects the flight tones of a female with his auditory organs. Previous studies of hearing thresholds have mainly used electrophysiological methods that prevent the mosquito from flying naturally. The main aim of this study was to quantify behaviourally the sound level threshold at which males can hear females. Free-flying male Anopheles coluzzii were released in a large arena (∼2 m high×2 m×1 m) with a conspicuous object on the ground that stimulated swarming behaviour. Males were exposed to a range of natural and synthetic played-back sounds of female flight. We monitored the responses of males and their distance to the speaker by recording changes in their wingbeat frequency and angular speed. We show that the mean male behavioural threshold of particle velocity hearing lies between 13 and 20 dB sound particle velocity level (SVL) (95% confidence interval). A conservative estimate of 20 dB SVL (i.e. <0.5 µm s−1 particle velocity) is 12–26 dB lower than most of the published electrophysiological measurements from the Johnston's organ. In addition, we suggest that (1) the first harmonic of a female’s flight sound is sufficient for males to detect her presence, (2) males respond with a greater amplitude to single-female sounds than to the sound of a group of females and (3) the response of males to the playback of the flight sound of a live female is the same as to that of a recorded sound of constant frequency and amplitude.
Scopus based bibliometric and scientometric analysis of occupational therapy publications from 2001 to 2020
Authors: Sau Koushik , Nayak Yogendra
Published: February 2022

Background: Occupational therapy (OT) is one of the allied health professions that had its first journals way back in 1920. The main objective of this study was to find out the publication trend in the field of OT research for the period of 2001-2020 using the principles of bibliometrics and scientometrics.

Methods: The data was retrieved from Scopus from the past 20-years (2001-2020). VOSviewer software was used to find year-wise publications in OT-specific and non-OT-specific Journals along with top journals, countries, organisations, authors, cited articles, and highly used keywords.

Results: There was a steady growth of OT articles from the past 20-years. Scopus indexes 16 OT-specific journals are identified. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, British Journal of Occupational Therapy Journal, Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy and Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy are the leading publications and citations. Comparison of OT-specific and non-OT journals inferred that the OT-specific papers are three times more published in non-OT journals. There is a trend in publishing multidisciplinary medical journals than OT journals. The US publishes the highest number of articles, followed by the UK, Australia, Canada, and Germany. Though the US alone produced a considerable number of articles (9517), only five organisations are listed in the top-20, compared to Canada (n=6) and Australia (n=5). Australia represents the highest published authors (n=11/20), and Canada represents a highly cited author from the top-cited publications. The “occupational therapy”, “rehabilitation”, “stroke”, “physical therapy,” and “activities of daily living” are the five common keywords used by OT authors. This study lists top-20 journals along with their CiteScore and Journal Impact Factor.

Conclusions: This study will help the budding researchers in OT to select a suitable quality journal for publication and, further, helpful for research promotion, researcher incentivising, grant allocations, and policymakers in the OT field.
Mucosal microbiome is predictive of pediatric Crohn’s disease across geographic regions in North America
Authors: Shah Rajesh , Hoffman Kristi , Denson Lee , Kugathasan Subramaniam , Kellermayer Richard
Published: February 2022

Background: Patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) have an altered intestinal microbiome, which may facilitate novel diagnostic testing. However, accuracy of microbiome classification models across geographic regions may be limited. Therefore, we sought to examine geographic variation in the microbiome of patients with CD from North America and test the performance of a machine learning classification model across geographic regions.

Methods: The RISK cohort included 447 pediatric patients with CD and 221 non-inflammatory bowel disease controls from across North America. Terminal ileum, rectal and fecal samples were obtained prior to treatment for microbiome analysis. We divided study sites into 3 geographic regions to examine regional microbiome differences. We trained and tested the performance of a machine learning classification model across these regions.

Results: No differences were seen in the mucosal microbiome of patients with CD across regions or in either the fecal or mucosal microbiomes of controls. Machine learning classification algorithms for patients with CD performed well across regions (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC] range of 0.85-0.91) with the best results from terminal ileum.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated the feasibility of microbiome based diagnostic testing in pediatric patients with CD within North America, independently from regional influences.
All eyes on COVID-19, let's not forget Tuberculosis
Authors: Schiza Vassia , Xiao Yupei , Tattersall Andrea
Published: February 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe global threat killing more than one million people annually (WHO). With a successful TB control programme in place, there has been a decrease in the number of TB cases and deaths globally over recent years. The World Health Organisation (WHO) End TB Strategy has been momentously shocked by the COVID-19 pandemic and it seems that any success made over recent years is likely to be reversed. We are now more than one year into the pandemic, and the effect COVID-19 has had on TB services is devastating. Hospitals typically dedicated to TB have been converted to COVID-19 hospitals and diagnostic laboratories focus on COVID-19 testing rather than TB. Delivery of TB care is being prioritised for people who have active TB disease whereas prevention and diagnosis of latent TB infection (LTBI) is being put on hold. This pause can lead to an increase in TB cases and transmission. Here, we discuss the connection between SARS-CoV-2 infection and latent TB and highlight the importance of TB prevention management in LTBI post-COVID-19 patients. Community engagement and contact tracing are of high importance in fighting TB in the post-COVID19 era. Getting back on track with TB progress is essential, thus further modelling on the COVID-19 impact on TB burden and its determinants is critical.
Low back pain and associated risk factors among medical students in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sany Shabbir Ahmed , Tanjim Taukir , Hossain Md Ikbal
Published: February 2022

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Different studies showed the high prevalence of LBP among medical students. However, no study has been conducted on Bangladeshi medical students to estimate the prevalence of LBP. This study determined the prevalence, characteristics, and associated risk factors of LBP among medical students in Bangladesh.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2020 among randomly selected 270 medical students and medical interns in Faridpur Medical College, Bangladesh, using an online questionnaire. In data analysis, chi-square test and binary logistic regression were performed, and a p-value of < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.

Results: A total of 207 participants responded fully to the survey, and were included in the analysis. The mean age of the participants was 22.4 ± 1.9 years. The point, 6-month, and 12-month prevalence of LBP was 25.6%, 46.9%, and 63.3%, respectively. In most participants, LBP was localized (53.2%), recurrent (64.9%), non-specific (70.8%), affected for a short period (55%), and relieved without receiving any treatment (60.4%). Participants who had a significantly higher 12-month prevalence of LBP included females (72.2% vs 52.2%), with BMI >25 kg/m2 (73.2% vs 56.7%), those who performed physical activity at low to moderate frequency (72.4% vs 29.5%), those who spent > 6 hours/day by sitting (71.3% vs 45.3%), and those who did not have enough rest time (92.7% vs 56%). Ergonomic features of chairs, such as having back support, adjustable back support, and adjustable sitting surface, significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the outcomes.

Conclusion: The prevalence of LBP among medical students in Bangladesh was high, and most of the risk factors associated with the high prevalence of LBP were modifiable. Hence, LBP can be prevented by implementing preventive strategies and providing ergonomic training and physical activity facilities.
Performance Evaluation of a Secured Framework for IoT Based on BlockChain
Authors:   Information Technology Department, Assiut University, Egypt, Ahmed Ali H. , Omar Nagwa M. , Ibrahim Hosny M.
Published: February 2022

In the last era the number of internet-connected devices surpassed the human population. IoT integration rate into human world equals at least five times the rate of electricity and telephony. Currently in 2020 the number of IoT devices is around 50 billion smart objects. This great invasion to our live requires extensive efforts for controlling and securing those devices. BlockChain (BC) is a distributed write-only ledger that eliminates the need for third party in securing and verifying transactions between peers. BC is considered the most powerful technique for securing transactions between IoT devices. In this work, a robust and scalable blockchain-based security framework for IoT is proposed. This framework comprises clients, device gateways, and administrators. IoT devices access BC through gateways. Ethereum BlockChain is utilized in addition to Ethereum smart contracts for enforcing a set of rules defined by the system administrator. Finally metrics that fulfill both efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed framework are introduced. In the results section, the proposed work provides robust and scalable security framework for the IoT devices under different attack probabilities in addition to satisfying the conditions of lightweight, transparency, and timeliness.
Design and Implementation of a Low-cost IoT Node for Data Processing, Case Study: Smart Agriculture
Authors:   Valley Higher Institute for Engineering & Technology, Cairo, Egypt, Amr Merihan E. , Al-Awamry Amr A. , Elmenyawi Marwa A. , Eldien Adly S. Tag
Published: February 2022

The majority of IoT nodes work within specific scenarios and can be configured in different ways. This paper seeks to design and implement a low-cost Internet of Things node for research applications to make it suitable for a wider variety of scenarios. The design is divided into hardware board and mobile application. With Bluetooth, the mobile application can connect to the node, and the node can collect data, store this data in the ThingSpeak database, control some connected devices, and check if the connected devices are on or off. The node was designed and tested for research purposes using smart agriculture as the case study. The system detects temperature, humidity, and soil moisture using node sensors, enabling data collection and interpretation by smartphone and web application. There are many challenges associated with the collected data preparation, analysis, visualization, and prediction using the Softmax function for optimal future management. Python was utilized to apply necessary data analysis techniques. The system saves time and makes farming more convenient as it uses few resources in terms of hardware and cost.
Kultura w sieci – nowe formy uczestnictwa w kulturze przestrzenią uczenia się dorosłych
Authors: Cyboran Beata , Kluzowicz Julia
Published: February 2022

W niniejszym artykule podjęto próbę ukazania edukacyjnych aspektów on-linowego uczestnictwa w kulturze osób dorosłych, które w okresie pandemii COVID-19 uległy wyraźnemu wzmocnieniu. W pierwszej części zaprezentowano najważniejsze trudności i ograniczenia w funkcjonowaniu sektora kultury w pierw- szym okresie lockdownu. Następnie zaprezentowano wybrane zjawiska, które kształ- towały uczestnictwo w kulturze przed pandemią, a które poprzez onlinowy charakter tej praktyki w okresie kryzysu zostały zintensyfikowane. Następnie podjęto próbę scharakteryzowania głównych kierunków przemian, jakie mogą nastąpić w funkcjo- nowaniu instytucji kultury, na bazie doświadczeń wyniesionych z pracy z odbiorcami w wirtualnej rzeczywistości.
COPD, exacerbation and self-management: a literature review
Authors: Boyer Paula
Published: February 2022

The incidence of COPD is rising in the UK. Paula Boyer looks at the evidence for the self-management of COPD and how this can help manage exacerbations

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being increasingly diagnosed in the UK, and is expected to continue to rise due to an ageing population with multiple co-morbidities and exposure to risk factors, such as cigarette smoke, noxious gases and air pollutants. The prevalence of this disease is high in areas of socioeconomic deprivation and among highly industrial areas. The use of self-management plans in COPD is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), to enable patients with this disease to be competent and confident in taking part in managing their own health condition and recognising signs and symptoms of an exacerbation. The aim of this article is to discuss self-management of COPD and the clinical guidance surrounding exacerbation of disease.
Evaluating potential delays and outcomes of patients undergoing surgical resection for locally advanced and recurrent colorectal cancer during a pandemic
Authors: Javed MA , Kohler A , Tiernan J , Quyn A , Sagar P
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant disruption of colorectal cancer (CRC) care pathways. This study evaluates the management and outcomes of patients with primary locally advanced or recurrent CRC during the pandemic in a single tertiary referral centre.

Methods

Patients undergoing elective surgery for advanced or recurrent CRC with curative intent between March 2020 and March 2021 were identified. Following first multidisciplinary team discussion patients were broadly classified into two groups: straight to surgery (n=22, 45%) or neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery (n=27, 55%). Primary outcome was COVID-19-related complication rate.

Results

Forty-nine patients with a median age of 66 years (interquartile range: 54–73) were included. No patients developed a COVID-19 infection or related complication during hospital admission. Significant delays were identified in the treatment pathway of patients in the straight to surgery group, mostly due to delays in referral from external centres. Nine of 22 patients in the straight to surgery group had evidence of tumour progression compared with 3 of 27 in the neoadjuvant group (p=0.015839). Seven of 27 patients in the neoadjuvant group showed evidence of tumour regression. During the study, surgical waiting times were reduced, and more operations were performed during the second wave of COVID-19.

Conclusion

This study suggests that it is possible to mitigate the risks of COVID-19-related complications in patients undergoing complex surgery for locally advanced and recurrent CRC. Delay in surgical intervention is associated with tumour progression, particularly in patients who may not have neoadjuvant therapy. Efforts should be made to prioritise resources for patients requiring time-sensitive surgery for advanced and recurrent CRC.
All-inorganic halide-perovskite polymer-fiber-photodetector for high-speed optical wireless communication
Authors: Kang Chun Hong , Alkhazragi Omar , Sinatra Lutfan , Alshaibani Sultan , Wang Yue , Li Kuang-Hui , Kong Meiwei , Lutfullin Marat , Bakr Osman M. , Ng Tien Khee , Ooi Boon S.
Published: February 2022

The use of optical carrier frequencies will enable seamless data connection for future terrestrial and underwater internet uses and will resolve the technological gap faced by other communication modalities. However, several issues must be solved to propel this technological shift, which include the limitations in designing optical receivers with large detection areas, omnidirectionality, and high modulation bandwidth, mimicking antennas operating in the radio-frequency spectrum. To address this technological gap, herein, we demonstrate halide-perovskite-polymer–based scintillating fibers as a near-omnidirectional detection platform for several tens-to-hundreds of Mbit/s optical communication in both free space and underwater links. The incorporation of all-inorganic CsPbBr3 nanocrystals by engineering the nanocrystal concentration in an ultraviolet-curable polymer matrix ensures a high photoluminescence quantum yield, Mega-Hertz modulation bandwidth and Mbit/s data rate suitable to be used as a high-speed fibers-based receiver. The resultant perovskite polymer-based scintillating fibers offer flexibility in terms of shape and near-omnidirectional detection features. Such fiber properties also introduce a scalable detection area which can resolve the resistance-capacitance and angle-of-acceptance limits in planar-based detectors, which conventionally impose a trade-off between the modulation bandwidth, detection area, and angle of view. A high bit rate of 23 Mbit/s and 152.5 Mbit/s was achieved using an intensity-modulated laser for non-return-to-zero on-off-keying (NRZ-OOK) modulation scheme in free-space and quadrature amplitude modulation orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (QAM-OFDM) modulation scheme in an underwater environment, respectively. Our near-omnidirectional optical-based antenna based on perovskite-polymer-based scintillating fibers sheds light on the immense possibilities of incorporating functional nanomaterials for empowering light-based terrestrial- and underwater-internet systems.
Rare-earth doped mixed sesquioxides for ultrafast lasers [Invited]
Authors: Kränkel Christian , Uvarova Anastasia , Guguschev Christo , Kalusniak Sascha , Hülshoff Lena , Tanaka Hiroki , Klimm Detlef
Published: February 2022

Sesquioxides are outstanding host materials for rare-earth doped laser gain media. Unfortunately, their very high melting points make it challenging for them to be fabricated in high quality. Recently, we demonstrated that some mixed sesquioxides exhibit significantly reduced melting temperatures compared to their constituents. This enables their growth by the established Czochralski method yielding rare-earth doped mixed sesquioxides of high optical quality. Due to their inhomogeneously broadened gain spectra caused by the intrinsic disorder, mixed sesquioxides are very promising for the generation and amplification of ultrashort pulses. To envisage the potential of this emerging class of gain materials, this paper reviews the spectroscopic as well as continuous wave and pulsed laser properties of crystalline and ceramic rare-earth doped mixed cubic sesquioxides of the form (Scx,Luy,Yz)2O3 with x + y + z = 1.
Heterochiasmy and the establishment of gsdf as a novel sex determining gene in Atlantic halibut
Authors: Edvardsen Rolf Brudvik , Wallerman Ola , Furmanek Tomasz , Kleppe Lene , Jern Patric , Wallberg Andreas , Kjærner-Semb Erik , Mæhle Stig , Olausson Sara Karolina , Sundström Elisabeth , Harboe Torstein , Mangor-Jensen Ragnfrid , Møgster Margareth , Perrichon Prescilla , Norberg Birgitta , Rubin Carl-Johan
Published: February 2022

Atlantic Halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) has a X/Y genetic sex determination system, but the sex determining factor is not known. We produced a high-quality genome assembly from a male and identified parts of chromosome 13 as the Y chromosome due to sequence divergence between sexes and segregation of sex genotypes in pedigrees. Linkage analysis revealed that all chromosomes exhibit heterochiasmy, i.e. male-only and female-only meiotic recombination regions (MRR/FRR). We show that FRR/MRR intervals differ in nucleotide diversity and repeat class content and that this is true also for other Pleuronectidae species. We further show that remnants of a Gypsy-like transposable element insertion on chr13 promotes early male specific expression ofgonadal somatic cell derived factor(gsdf). Less than 4.5 MYA, this male-determining element evolved on an autosomal FRR segment featuring pre-existing male meiotic recombination barriers, thereby creating a Y chromosome. Our findings indicate that heterochiasmy may facilitate the evolution of genetic sex determination systems relying on linkage of sexually antagonistic loci to a sex-determining factor.
Exercise-based rehabilitation reduces reinjury following acute lateral ankle sprain: A systematic review update with meta-analysis
Authors: Wagemans Jente , Bleakley Chris , Taeymans Jan , Schurz Alexander Philipp , Kuppens Kevin , Baur Heiner , Vissers Dirk
Published: February 2022

Research questions

1) Do exercise-based rehabilitation programs reduce re-injury following acute ankle sprain?; 2) Is rehabilitation effectiveness moderated by the exercise’s therapeutic quality, content and volume?

Methods

This systematic review with meta-analysis (PROSPERO: CRD42020210858) included randomized controlled trials in which adults who sustained an acute ankle sprain received exercise-based rehabilitation as an intervention. Databases CINAHL, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PEDro and Google Scholar were searched for eligible articles (last search: March 2021). ROB II screening tool by Cochrane was used to assess risk of bias and the i-CONTENT tool was used to assess quality of interventions. Both qualitative analysis and quantitative data synthesis were performed.

Results

Fourteen randomized controlled trials comprising 2182 participants were included. Five studies were judged overall low risk of bias and i-CONTENT assessment showed poor to moderate therapeutic quality of exercise across all included articles. Pooled data found significant reductions in re-injury prevalence at 12 months, in favour of the exercise-based rehabilitation group vs usual care (OR: 0.60; 95%CI: 0.36 to 0.99). Pooled data for re-injury incidence showed not-significant results (MD: 0.027; 95%CI: -2.14 to 2.19). Meta-regression displayed no statistically significant association between training volume and odds of re-injury (r = -0.00086; SD: 0.00057; 95%CI: -0.00197 to 0.00025). Results from patient-reported outcomes and clinical outcomes were inconclusive at 1 month, 3–6 months and 7–12 months of follow up.

Conclusion

Exercise-based rehabilitation reduces the risk of recurrent ankle sprain compared to usual care, but there is insufficient data to determine the optimal content of exercise-based interventions. Training volume varied considerably across studies but did not affect the odds of sustaining a re-injury. Effects on patient-reported outcomes and clinical outcomes are equivocal. Future research should compare different exercise contents, training volumes and intensities after ankle sprain.
INHABIT: A web-based decision support tool for invasive plant species habitat visualization and assessment across the contiguous United States
Authors: Engelstad Peder , Jarnevich Catherine S. , Hogan Terri , Sofaer Helen R. , Pearse Ian S. , Sieracki Jennifer L. , Frakes Neil , Sullivan Julia , Young Nicholas E. , Prevéy Janet S. , Belamaric Pairsa , LaRoe Jillian
Published: February 2022

Narrowing the communication and knowledge gap between producers and users of scientific data is a longstanding problem in ecological conservation and land management. Decision support tools (DSTs), including websites or interactive web applications, provide platforms that can help bridge this gap. DSTs can most effectively disseminate and translate research results when producers and users collaboratively and iteratively design content and features. One data resource seldom incorporated into DSTs are species distribution models (SDMs), which can produce spatial predictions of habitat suitability. Outputs from SDMs can inform management decisions, but their complexity and inaccessibility can limit their use by resource managers or policy makers. To overcome these limitations, we present the Invasive Species Habitat Tool (INHABIT), a novel, web-based DST built with R Shiny to display spatial predictions and tabular summaries of habitat suitability from SDMs for invasive plants across the contiguous United States. INHABIT provides actionable science to support the prevention and management of invasive species. Two case studies demonstrate the important role of end user feedback in confirming INHABIT’s credibility, utility, and relevance.
Metabolic syndrome in rural Peruvian adults living at high altitudes using different cookstoves
Authors: Sanchez-Samaniego Giuliana , Mäusezahl Daniel , Carcamo Cesar , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Verastegui Héctor , Maria Hartinger Stella
Published: February 2022

This study determined the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in open fire stoves and improved cookstoves users (ICS) in the rural Peruvian Andes. Participants answered a socioeconomic questionnaire, one 24-hour food recall and underwent a physical examination. We analysed data from 385 participants, 190 (112 women and 78 men) were ICS users and 195 (123 women and 72 men) were open fire stove users. The prevalence of MetS was 21.3, 26.4% in women and 13.3% in men. We found no statistically significant association between the type of cookstove and MetS. Body mass index and altitude were important determinants of MetS. Research on cardiometabolic diseases and open fire stove use contributes to understanding the effect of household air pollution on health in high altitude populations.
The relationship between protective factors and common mental disorders among female urban slum dwellers in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Sekoni Olutoyin , Mall Sumaya , Christofides Nicola
Published: February 2022

Background

On the African continent, many people live in conditions of adversity known to be associated with the onset of mental disorders, yet not all develop a mental disorder. The prevalence of common mental disorders such as depression and anxiety in the general population of Nigeria is comparatively low. Prevalence data of mental disorders in slum settings in Nigeria is sparse. There is a need to better understand the relationship between protective factors and the occurrence of common mental disorders in the Nigerian slum context. This study aimed to describe the relationship between protective factors and the occurrence of common mental disorders among female urban slum dwellers in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Methods and findings

A cross sectional household survey of 550 women was conducted in slum settlements in Ibadan, Nigeria. Interviewer administered questionnaires were completed to elicit information on protective factors (social connectedness, self-esteem, social support, resilience) and common mental disorders (depression, anxiety and stress). The DASS-21 was used to measure common mental disorders and protective factors were measured using the Social Connectedness Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Resilience scale and the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale. A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to examine associations while adjusting for relevant confounders. Common mental disorders were reported by 14.0% of the respondents. Resilience and social support were found to be protective against reporting symptoms of common mental disorders. Women who reported higher levels of social support and resilience were less likely to report common mental disorders (OR:0.96, 95% CI 0.93, 0.98) and (OR:0.95, 95% CI 0.91, 0.99) respectively. Women who were 65 years and older were also less likely to report the occurrence of common mental disorders (OR:0.38, 95% CI 0.15, 0.98) compared to those aged 18–34 years.

Conclusion

Social support and resilience appear to be protective against common mental disorders among these respondents. Further research should be conducted to explore the pathways through which protective factors reduce the likelihood of the occurrence of common mental disorders. This would be important in the development of mental health interventions.
Spatiotemporal clustering and correlates of childhood stunting in Ghana: Analysis of the fixed and nonlinear associative effects of socio-demographic and socio-ecological factors
Authors: Amoako Johnson Fiifi
Published: February 2022

Childhood stunting remains a major public health issue in many low- and middle-income countries. In Ghana, the progress made is insufficient to reach the targets set by the 2025 World Health Assembly and the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Although studies have examined the socio-demographic determinants of childhood stunting, there has not been any systematic study to examine the spatial associative effects of the socio-demographic and socio-ecological factors at the district level, where health programmes are implemented and monitored. Bayesian geo-additive semiparametric regression technique was used to analyse five conservative rounds of Demographic and Health Surveys in Ghana, with socio-ecological covariates derived from the Demographic and Health Survey Program Geospatial Covariate datasets to examine the temporal trends in childhood stunting, the extent of geospatial clustering at the district level and their associative relationships with socio-demographic and socio-ecological factors. The findings show that childhood stunting in Ghana is not spatially randomly distributed but clustered. Clustering of high childhood stunting was observed amongst districts in the Upper West, Upper East, Northern, North East, Savannah, and Western North regions, whilst clustering of low childhood stunting was observed in districts in the Greater Accra, Volta, Bono and the Eastern regions. Whist socio-demographic factors were predominantly associated with clustering of districts with high childhood stunting, the socio-ecological factors were mainly associated with clustering of districts with low childhood stunting. The socio-ecological factors identified to have a nonlinear associative effect with childhood stunting were Insecticide Treated Net (ITN) coverage, nightlight composite, travel time to a main settlement and population density. The findings suggest that targeted interventions at the district level are essential to reducing childhood stunting in Ghana.
Study on the characteristics of induced airflow and particle dispersion based on the multivariate two-factor model
Authors: Fan Chaonan , Qi Qingjie , Chen Xi , Ge Shaocheng
Published: February 2022

To examine the diffusion characteristics of airflow and dust particles, a multi-factor and multi-level physical self-developed testing system is established. In this study, bunker height, chute angle, feeding speed, coal granularity, and belt speed are selected as independent variables, and airflow velocity and dust concentration are the response variables. The two-factor interactive model is established to analyze the primary and secondary relationship between the independent variables and the response variables. The results demonstrate a denser contour distribution of three-dimensional curved surfaces, suggesting an obvious interaction between the factors. The bunker height increases from 0.75 m to 1.15 m, the maximum increment of the induced airflow velocity at the outlet of the guide chute is observed to be 0.35 m/s, meanwhile, and with the increase in the feed speed from 2t/h to 8t/h, the increment of the induced airflow velocity at the outlet of the guide chute is recorded to be 51%. The coal granularity and bunker height depicted the highest influence on induced air velocity and dust concentration, and the feeding speed proved to be the secondary parameter. This two-factor interactive model can accurately forecast the actual values with a deviation of the calculated values limited to 9%. These research results support the existing research and provide a theoretical foundation to guide the dust control at belt conveyor transfer stations.