bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogel-guided strategies to stimulate an effective immune response for vaccine-based cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Lei Lei , Huang Dennis , Gao Huile , He Bin , Cao Jun , Peppas Nicholas A.
Published: November 2022

Cancer vaccines have attracted widespread interest in tumor therapy because of the potential to induce an effective antitumor immune response. However, many challenges including weak immunogenicity, off-target effects, and immunosuppressive microenvironments have prevented their broad clinical translation. To overcome these difficulties, effective delivery systems have been designed for cancer vaccines. As carriers in cancer vaccine delivery systems, hydrogels have gained substantial attention because they can encapsulate a variety of antigens/immunomodulators and protect them from degradation. This enables hydrogels to simultaneously reverse immunosuppression and stimulate the immune response. Meanwhile, the controlled release properties of hydrogels allow for precise temporal and spatial release of loads in situ to further enhance the immune response of cancer vaccines. Therefore, this review summarizes the classification of cancer vaccines, highlights the strategies of hydrogel-based cancer vaccines, and provides some insights into the future development of hydrogel-based cancer vaccines.
Bifacial all-perovskite tandem solar cells
Authors: Chen Bo , Yu Zhenhua , Onno Arthur , Yu Zhengshan , Chen Shangshang , Wang Jiantao , Holman Zachary C. , Huang Jinsong
Published: November 2022

The efficiency of all-perovskite tandem devices falls far below theoretical efficiency limits, mainly because a widening bandgap fails to increase open-circuit voltage. We report on a bifacial all-perovskite tandem structures with an equivalent efficiency of 29.3% under back-to-front irradiance ratio of 30. This increases energy yield and reduces the required bandgap of a wide-bandgap cell. Open-circuit voltage deficit is therefore minimized, although its performance under only front irradiance is not ideal. The bifacial device needs a sputtered rear transparent electrode, which could reduce photon path length and deteriorate stability of Pb-Sn perovskites. Embedding a light-scattering micrometer-sized particle layer into perovskite to trap light, effectively increases absorptance by 5 to 15% in the infrared region. Using a nonacidic hole transport layer markedly stabilizes the hole-extraction interface by avoiding proton-accelerated formation of iodine. These two strategies together increase efficiency of semitransparent Pb-Sn cells from 15.6 to 19.4%, enabling fabrication of efficient bifacial all-perovskite tandem devices.
XLID syndrome gene Med12 promotes Ig isotype switching through chromatin modification and enhancer RNA regulation
Authors: Haque Farazul , Honjo Tasuku , Begum Nasim A.
Published: November 2022

The transcriptional coactivator Med12 regulates gene expression through its kinase module. Here, we show a kinase module–independent function of Med12 in CSR. Med12 is essential for super-enhancer activation by collaborating with p300-Jmjd6/Carm1 coactivator complexes. Med12 loss decreases H3K27 acetylation and eRNA transcription with concomitant impairment of AID-induced DNA breaks, S-S synapse formation, and 3′RR-Eμ interaction. CRISPR-dCas9–mediated enhancer activation reestablishes the epigenomic and transcriptional hallmarks of the super-enhancer and fully restores the Med12 depletion defects. Moreover, 3′RR-derived eRNAs are critical for promoting S region epigenetic regulation, synapse formation, and recruitment of Med12 and AID to the IgH locus. We find that XLID syndrome–associated Med12 mutations are defective in both 3′RR eRNA transcription and CSR, suggesting that B and neuronal cells may have cell-specific super-enhancer dysfunctions. We conclude that Med12 is essential for IgH 3′RR activation/eRNA transcription and plays a central role in AID-induced antibody gene diversification and genomic instability in B cells.
Patient satisfaction after remotely delivered gut-directed hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome during the COVID-19 era: implications for future practice
Authors: Noble Hithin , Hasan Syed S , Simpson Victoria , Whorwell Peter J , Vasant Dipesh H
Published: November 2022

Objective

Gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH) is an evidence-based treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Adoption of remote GDH has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to evaluate patient experience and satisfaction following remote GDH.

Design

On completing 12 sessions of remote GDH via Skype using the Manchester protocol, patients with refractory IBS completed a feedback form on their experience. The proportion reporting positive outcomes (≥30% improvement in global IBS symptoms or abdominal pain, satisfaction, recommendation to family/friends) were compared by patient factors (age, gender, proximity, preferences).

Results

Of 52 patients completing the feedback form, 27 (52%) indicated that they would have opted for remote over face-to-face GDH, regardless of the pandemic situation. On a five-point scale (5=easy), patients rated the platform easy-to-use (mean 4.5±0.8) without impairment of communication (mean rating 4.6±0.8). Following remote GDH, 30/52 (58%) reported ≥30% global IBS symptom improvement, and 24/52 (46%) reported ≥30% pain reduction. 90% would recommend remote GDH to others. Only 39% felt they would have benefitted more from face to face. Those who would have chosen remote GDH regardless of the pandemic were more likely to be satisfied (p=0.01). Age, gender and proximity did not influence outcomes, satisfaction and likelihood of recommending remote GDH to others. Difficulties during remote sessions were infrequent in both those that were satisfied, and those that would have preferred face to face.

Conclusion

These data support the need to continue developing remote GDH in the post-COVID era but suggest that there is still a role for face-to-face GDH, with patient choice being an important factor.
A study of the quality of cardiovascular and diabetes medicines in Malang District, Indonesia, using exposure-based sampling
Authors: Dewi Aksari , Patel Anushka , Palagyi Anna , Praveen Devarsetty , Ihsan Bachtiar Rifai Pratita , Hariadini Ayuk Lawuningtyas , Lyrawati Diana , Sujarwoto Sujarwoto , Maharani Asri , Tampubolon Gindo , Jan Stephen , Pisani Elizabeth
Published: November 2022

Background

The WHO has warned that substandard and falsified medicines threaten health, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, the magnitude of that threat for many medicines in different regions is not well described, and high-quality studies remain rare. Recent reviews of studies of cardiovascular and diabetes medicine quality recorded that 15.4% of cardiovascular and 6.8% of diabetes samples failed at least one quality test. Review authors warn that study quality was mixed. Because they did not record medicine volume, no study reflected the risk posed to patients.

Methods and findings

We investigated the quality of five medicines for cardiovascular disease and diabetes in Malang district, East Java, Indonesia. Our sample frame, based on dispensing volumes by outlet and price category, included sampling from public and private providers and pharmacies and reflected the potential risk posed to patients. The content of active ingredient was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography and compared with the labelled content. Dissolution testing was also performed.

We collected a total of 204 samples: amlodipine (88); captopril (22); furosemide (21); glibenclamide (21) and simvastatin (52), comprising 83 different brands/products. All were manufactured in Indonesia, and all samples met specifications for both assay and dissolution. None was suspected of being falsified.

Conclusions

While we cannot conclude that the prevalence of poor-quality medicines in Malang district is zero, our sampling method, which reflects likely exposure to specific brands and outlets, suggests that the risk to patients is very low; certainly nothing like the rates found in recent reviews of surveys in LMICs. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of sampling medicines based on likely exposure to specific products and underlines the dangers of extrapolating results across countries.
What are the predictive factors of body image disturbance in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus? A cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Chen Haoyang , Shi Songsong , Cui Hengmei , Li Yunyun , Liu Zuojia , Yao Lijuan , Shen Biyu
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may experience body image disorders, which can adversely affect their physical and mental health. We aimed to assess the body-image-related quality of life of patients with SLE, explore the influencing factors and determine the potential predictors of body image disturbance (BID) in these patients.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The department of rheumatology and immunology in Nantong.

Participants

A convenience sample of 230 patients with SLE.

Interventions

The study survey included an assessment of demographic information and evaluations using the Body Image Disturbance questionnaire (BIDQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 and Body Image Quality of Life Inventory (BIQLI).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

BID scores and their possible predictors. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational analysis and stepwise multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

The mean BIDQ score and the mean scores for anxiety, depression and fatigue were 23.04 (SD, SD=11.90), 6.94 (SD=4.53), 6.49 (SD=4.51) and 54.21 (SD=11.63), respectively. The mean BIQLI score was 0.31 (SD=16.59). The findings revealed significant correlations with education level, comorbidities, SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), anxiety, depression, fatigue and BIQLI. Fatigue, depression, presence of comorbidities and SLEDAI were predictors of worsening BID (p<0.05).

Conclusion

In our study, the relationship between BIDQ and anxiety, depression, and fatigue was analysed, and predictors of BID were defined. When formulating interventional measures, the patient’s condition should be evaluated, and effective interventions should be implemented to improve the patient’s body image and ultimately improve the patient’s quality of life.
Administration approaches of nursing assistants in hospitals: a scoping review
Authors: Zeng Ben-tuo , Jin Yinghui , Cheng Shu-dong , Ding Yan-ming , Du Ji-wei
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The administration of nursing assistants (NAs) is closely associated with patient outcomes, but studies evaluating intrahospital administration of NAs are limited. This study aimed to identify existing literature on intrahospital NAs’ administration approaches.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, ProQuest, CNKI, APA PsycInfo, Wanfang Med, SinoMed, Ovid Emcare, NICE, AHRQ, CADTH, JBI EBP and Cochrane DSR were searched for articles published between January 2011 and March 2022.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Qualitative, quantitative or mixed-method studies and evidence syntheses that evaluate administration approaches, models and appraisal tools of intrahospital NAs were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers conducted search, data selection and data extraction according to Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and methodology for scoping review. The quality of included studies was assessed using Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool or AMSTAR V.2. Data were synthesised using narrative methods and frequency effect size analysis.

Results

Thirty-six studies were eligible, with acceptable quality. We identified 1 administration model, 9 administration methods, 15 educational programmes and 7 appraisal tools from the included studies. The frequency effect size analysis yielded 15 topics of the main focus at four levels, suggesting that included articles were mainly (33%) focused on the competency of NAs, and the lectures were the most (80%) used strategy in quality improvement projects. Evidence from the studies was of low-to-moderate quality, indicating huge gaps between evidence-based research and management practice.

Conclusions

Practical intrahospital administration approaches were revealed, and fifteen primarily focused topics were identified. We should explore this area more thoroughly using structured frameworks and standardised methodology. This scoping review will help managers find more effective ways to improve the quality of care. Researchers may focus more on evidence-based practice in NA administration using the 15 topics as a breakthrough.
Remote versus face-to-face neuropsychological testing for dementia research: a comparative study in people with Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia and healthy older individuals
Authors: Requena-Komuro Maï-Carmen , Jiang Jessica , Dobson Lucianne , Benhamou Elia , Russell Lucy , Bond Rebecca L , Brotherhood Emilie V , Greaves Caroline , Barker Suzie , Rohrer Jonathan D , Crutch Sebastian J , Warren Jason D , Hardy Chris JD
Published: November 2022

Objectives

We explored whether adapting neuropsychological tests for online administration during the COVID-19 pandemic was feasible for dementia research.

Design

We used a longitudinal design for healthy controls, who completed face-to-face assessments 3–4 years before remote assessments. For patients, we used a cross-sectional design, contrasting a prospective remote cohort with a retrospective face-to-face cohort matched for age/education/severity.

Setting

Remote assessments were conducted using video-conferencing/online testing platforms, with participants using a personal computer/tablet at home. Face-to-face assessments were conducted in testing rooms at our research centre.

Participants

The remote cohort comprised 25 patients (n=8 Alzheimer’s disease (AD); n=3 behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD); n=4 semantic dementia (SD); n=5 progressive non-fluent aphasia (PNFA); n=5 logopenic aphasia (LPA)). The face-to-face patient cohort comprised 64 patients (n=25 AD; n=12 bvFTD; n=9 SD; n=12 PNFA; n=6 LPA). Ten controls who previously participated in face-to-face research also took part remotely.

Outcome measures

The outcome measures comprised the strength of evidence under a Bayesian framework for differences in performances between testing environments on general neuropsychological and neurolinguistic measures.

Results

There was substantial evidence suggesting no difference across environments in both the healthy control and combined patient cohorts (including measures of working memory, single-word comprehension, arithmetic and naming; Bayes Factors (BF)01>3), in the healthy control group alone (including measures of letter/category fluency, semantic knowledge and bisyllabic word repetition; all BF01>3), and in the combined patient cohort alone (including measures of working memory, episodic memory, short-term verbal memory, visual perception, non-word reading, sentence comprehension and bisyllabic/trisyllabic word repetition; all BF01>3). In the control cohort alone, there was substantial evidence in support of a difference across environments for tests of visual perception (BF01=0.0404) and monosyllabic word repetition (BF01=0.0487).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that remote delivery of neuropsychological tests for dementia research is feasible.
Nomogram models to predict low fertilisation rate and total fertilisation failure in patients undergoing conventional IVF cycles
Authors: Wang Qiaofeng , Wan Qi , Bu Xiaoqing , Feng Qian , Li Tian , Lv Xingyu , Meng Xiangqian , Chen Mingxing , Qian Yue , Yang Yin , Geng Lihong , Zhong Zhaohui , Tang Xiaojun , Ding Yubin
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To establish visualised prediction models of low fertilisation rate (LFR) and total fertilisation failure (TFF) for patients in conventional in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Data from August 2017 to August 2021 were collected from the electronic records of a large obstetrics and gynaecology hospital in Sichuan, China.

Participants

A total of 11 598 eligible patients who underwent the first IVF cycles were included. All patients were randomly divided into the training group (n=8129) and the validation group (n=3469) in a 7:3 ratio.

Primary outcome measure

The incidence of LFR and TFF.

Results

Logistic regressions showed that ovarian stimulation protocol, primary infertility and initial progressive sperm motility were the independent predictors of LFR, while serum luteinising hormone and P levels before human chorionic gonadotropin injection and number of oocytes retrieved were the critical predictors of TFF. And these indicators were incorporated into the nomogram models. According to the area under the curve values, the predictive ability for LFR and TFF were 0.640 and 0.899 in the training set and 0.661 and 0.876 in the validation set, respectively. The calibration curves also showed good concordance between the actual and predicted probabilities both in the training and validation group.

Conclusion

The novel nomogram models provided effective methods for clinicians to predict LFR and TFF in traditional IVF cycles.
Cell-freeRB1DNA not detected in the blood of pseudoretinoblastoma patients
Authors: Abramson David H , Mandelker Diana , Brannon A Rose , Berger Michael F , Robbins Melissa , Dunkel Ira J , Francis Jasmine H
Published: November 2022

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is commonly found in the blood (plasma) of patients with cancer. When analysing cfDNA for a specific cancer-causing mutation, it is referred to as ctDNA.RB1ctDNA is commonly present in the blood of retinoblastoma patients. We examinedRB1ctDNA from blood of 40 children with retinoblastoma look alike lesions (‘pseudoretinoblastoma’) to determine if anyRB1abnormalities could be identified.

Objectives

Because retinoblastoma diagnosis is usually made with the indirect ophthalmoscope without biopsy clinical errors continue to occur worldwide. Because cfRB1is detectible in plasma of children with retinoblastoma, we wondered if it was present in the blood of pseudoretinoblastomas with the hope of ultimately developing a blood based test to aid clinicians in the diagnosis of retinoblastoma. The goal of this project was to see if circulating plasmaRB1cfDNA could be detected in the blood of patients with pseudoretinoblastoma.

Methods and analysis

Plasma cfDNA for circulatingRB1cfDNA was assayed with MSKCC’s next generation sequencing, N.Y. State Approved assay called ACCESS to evaluate somaticmutations in 40 patients with pseudoretinoblastoma.

Results

No plasma cfDNARB1was detected in the blood (plasma) of 40 patients with pseudoretinoblastoma.

Conclusion

Plasma cfDNARB1is commonly detectible in retinoblastoma patients but not in patients with a diverse group of pseudoretinoblastomas.
Prognosis in asymptomatic patients with discordantly graded aortic valve stenosis based on pressure recovery adjusted valve area
Authors: Bahlmann Edda , Einarsen Eigir , Cramariuc Dana , Pedersen Eva R , Rossebø Anne B , Midtbø Helga , Willems Stephan , Gerdts Eva
Published: November 2022

Objective

We hypothesised that patients with asymptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) who remain with discordantly graded aortic valve stenosis (DGAS) after adjustment for pressure recovery in the aortic root represents a subgroup of patients with increased cardiovascular risk.

Methods

Data from 1353 patients with asymptomatic mild–moderate AS and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction enrolled in the Simvastatin and Ezetimibe in AS study was used. DGAS was identified as combined pressure adjusted valve area (energy loss) <1.0 cm² and mean aortic gradient<40 mm Hg (DGASEL). Outcome was assessed in Cox regression analysis and reported as HR and 95% CI.

Results

DGASELwas found in 196 (14.5%) patients at baseline, and was associated with older age, female sex, smaller aortic annulus diameter, lower heart rate, more extensive valve calcification and low flow (all p<0.05). In Cox regression analysis, DGASELwas associated with higher rate of heart failure (HF) hospitalisation (HR 3.31 (95% CI 1.54 to 7.09)), cardiovascular death (HR 2.63 (95% CI 1.34 to 5.17)) and all-cause mortality (HR 1.73 (95% CI 1.04 to 2.87)) independent of confounders including low flow and aortic valve calcification (all p<0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with asymptomatic AS who remain with discordant grading after adjustment for pressure recovery have increased risk for HF and death.

Trial registration number

NCT00092677.
MECHANICAL AND TRIBOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF HYBRID Al6061/B4C/Gr COMPOSITES BY STIR CASTING TECHNIQUE
Authors: RAMESH KUMAR C. , BALAJI A. , PRABHU P. , GOKULDASS R.
Published: November 2022

This research focuses on the fabrication of Al6061/B4C/Gr metal matrix composites as well as the mechanical and wear properties analysis. A liquid metallurgy stir casting process was used to cast the Al6061 alloy matrix composites with specific wt.% of B4C and constant wt.% of graphite. In this work, newly developed composites of Gr (particle grain size: 0–20[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m) and B4C (particle grain size: 0–30[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m) are reinforced with Al6061 pure alloy, which enhanced the mechanical and wear properties when compared to Al6061 pure alloy. Microstructure analysis was carried out concerning the developed mechanical properties. Furthermore, the dry sliding wear behavior of Al6061/B4C/Gr metal matrix composites was investigated at a sliding speed of 1[Formula: see text]m/s and a sliding distance of 1500[Formula: see text]mm against a hardened EN-31 disc under the corresponding load of 19.68[Formula: see text]N. The minimum wear rate is [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mm3/m found at 15[Formula: see text]wt.% B4C and 2[Formula: see text]wt.% graphite and the coefficient of friction is 0.54 that decreases with graphite addition, with the lowest value obtained with 5[Formula: see text]wt.% B4C and 2[Formula: see text]wt.% graphite. Al6061/10[Formula: see text]wt.% B4C/2[Formula: see text]wt.% Gr particles-reinforced composite material demonstrated the highest tensile and flexural strengths. The hardness,compressive and tensile strength of the Al6061/15[Formula: see text]wt.% B4C/2[Formula: see text]wt.% Gr particles-reinforced composite material were the highest. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the worn surfaces of wear specimens. The main objective of this work is to develop hybrid Al6061/B4C/Gr composites with improved mechanical and wear properties when compared with the base alloy. Al6061 is widely used in automobiles parts like engine block, piston rings, alloy wheels, marine industries, etc. B4C used in the composite improves strength and is used commonly in armed bullet proof. The Gr present in the composite improves wear resistance, and therefore applied in wear-resistant parts like brake, piston with cylinder, etc.
Identification of Novel 5-Lipoxygenase-Activating Protein (FLAP) Inhibitors by an Integrated Method of Pharmacophore Virtual Screening, Docking, QSAR and ADMET Analyses
Authors: Rullah Kamal , Roney Miah , Ibrahim Zalikha , Shamsudin Nur Farisya , Islami Deri , Ahmed Qamar Uddin , Lam Kok Wai , Mohd Aluwi Mohd Fadhlizil Fasihi
Published: November 2022

This study explored a series of reported 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein (FLAP) inhibitors to understand their structural requirements and identify potential new inhibitor scaffolds through automated unbiased procedures. Docking studies have revealed that inhibitor binding affinity can be influenced by several key binding interactions with Phe114 and Lys116 from chain B and Val21, Phe25, His28 and Lys29 from chain C in the FLAP-binding site. A ligand-based alignment three-dimensional (3D)-quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) was adopted, resulting in a robust model with a statistically significant noncross-validated coefficient ([Formula: see text]), a cross-validated correlation coefficient ([Formula: see text]) and a predictive squared correlation coefficient ([Formula: see text]). Overall, the analysis revealed the important electrostatic and steric attributes responsible for the FLAP inhibitory activity, which appeared to correlate well with the docking results. In addition, two statistically significant two-dimensional (2D)-QSAR models ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) were developed by a genetic function approximation (GFA). HypoGen 1, a proposed pharmacophore model, was used for database mining to identify potential new FLAP inhibitors. The bioactivity of the retrieved hits was then evaluated in silico based on the validated QSAR models, followed by pharmacokinetics and toxicity predictions.
Caledonian hot zone magmatism in the ‘Newer Granites’: insight from the Cluanie and Clunes plutons, Northern Scottish Highlands
Authors: Milne Eilidh J. M. , Neill Iain , Bird Anna F. , Millar Ian L. , McDonald Iain , Dempsey Edward D. , Olive Valerie , Odling Nic , Waters Emma C.
Published: November 2022

Scottish ‘Newer Granites’ record the evolution of the Caledonides resulting from Iapetus subduction and slab breakoff during the Silurian–Devonian Scandian Orogeny, but relationships between geodynamics, petrogenesis and emplacement are incomplete. Laser ablation U–Pb results from magmatic zircons at the Cluanie Pluton (Northern Highlands) identify clusters of concordant Silurian data points. A cluster with a weighted mean
206
Pb/
238
U age of 431.6 ± 1.3 Ma (2

σ

confidence interval,
n
 = 6) records emplacement whilst older points (clustered at 441.8 ± 2.3 Ma,
n
 = 9) record deep crustal hot zone magmatism prior to ascent. The Cluanie Pluton, and its neighbour the
c.
428 Ma Clunes tonalite, have adakite-like high Na, Sr/Y, La/Yb and low Mg, Ni and Cr characteristics, and lack mafic facies common in other ‘Newer Granites’. These geochemical signatures indicate the tapping of batches of homogenized, evolved magma from the deeper crust. The emplacement age of the Cluanie Pluton confirms volumetrically modest subduction-related magmatism occurred beneath the Northern Highlands before slab breakoff, probably restricted by crustal thickening during the
c.
450 Ma Grampian 2 event. Extensive new
in situ
geochemical–geochronological studies for this terrane may further substantiate the deep crustal hot zone model and the association between Caledonian magmatism and potentially metallogenesis. The term ‘Newer Granites’ is outdated as it ignores geochronology, petrography and tectonic setting. Hence, ‘Caledonian intrusions’ would be a more appropriate generic term to cover those bodies related to either Iapetus subduction or to slab breakoff.

Supplementary material:
Full geochronological, whole rock geochemical and geobarometric data are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6305927
Reduction of Background Fluorescence from Impurities in Protein Samples for Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Corujo Marco Pinto , Michal Pavel , Wesson Rod , Amarasinghe Don Praveen , Rodger Alison , Chmel Nikola P.
Published: November 2022

Background fluorescence remains the biggest challenge in Raman spectroscopy because of the consequent curvature of the baseline and the degradation of the signal-to-noise ratio of the Raman signal. While the concentrations of the fluorophore impurities are usually too low to be detected by other analytical methods, they are often sufficient to prevent Raman data collection. Among the different existing methods to remove the fluorescence signal, photobleaching remains the most popular due to its simplicity. However, using the spectrometer laser to photobleach is far from optimal. Most commercially available instruments have little or no choice of wavelength, and their output powers are in many cases not suitable for highly fluorescent samples such as those from biological systems (e.g., proteins). In this article, we assess practical aspects of photobleaching such as the apparent reversibility of the process and the effect of convection currents due to what we speculate to be temperature gradients across the bulk of the solution. We also introduce an affordable custom made external photobleaching unit with a choice of excitation wavelength and demonstrate its viability with a highly fluorescent bovine serum albumin protein solution, which had proved most challenging for Raman spectroscopy as it contained ∼10% w/w impurities.
Identifying the Top Ten Unanswered Questions in Community Nursing: A James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership in Community Nursing
Authors: Henshall Catherine , Jones Louise , Armitage Claire , Tomlinson Lee
Published: November 2022

Community nurses deliver comprehensive nursing care to patients living outside of hospital settings and play a crucial role in meeting individual and public health needs. Research is essential in providing evidence-based care for patients; however, most community nurses are not research active, with few relevant studies and little funding for community nursing research. To address this, four National Institute for Health Research senior nurse researchers in England conducted a James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership in community nursing with the aim of raising the international profile of community nursing research through the identification of meaningful research priorities that matter to this community. Community nurses, patients, and carers were integral to the process, which aimed to identify the top ten unanswered questions to inform community nursing practice. The Priority Setting Partnership process utilised a coproduction, mixed-methods approach. It involved consultation meetings with stakeholder partners and nested quantitative surveys. The study ran from March 2020 until September 2021, and numerous unanswered evidence uncertainties were identified. The top ten priority questions included nursing and patient focussed issues, which reflect the complexity of care delivered to patients and the workforce pressures community nurses face. Findings reflect the views of community nurses, patients, and carers and highlight areas that need attention to ensure research is embedded within community nursing settings. Identification of the top ten priorities has provided an international platform for community nursing research. This must be sustained through engagement, collaboration, funding, and innovation and has widespread implications for developing the community nursing workforce and optimising the safety and quality of patient care.
Preparation and Biocompatibility of Core‐Shell Microspheres for Sequential, Sustained Release of BMP‐2 and VEGF
Authors: Liu Zheng , Xu Zhenchao , Wang Xiyang , Zhang Yilu , Wu Yunqi , Jiang Dingyu , Jia Runze
Published: November 2022

Bone defect repair remains a challenge in orthopedics. This study describes the development and potential effectiveness of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) shell‐core microspheres for promoting bone regeneration. Poly(L‐lactic acid)/polylactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLLA/PLGA) core‐shell microspheres loaded with VEGF and BMP‐2 were prepared by a coaxial electrospray technique, and their surface morphology, core‐shell distribution, and particle size were examined. Different groups of microspheres were prepared with different placement of the growth factors, and the encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release curves were measured. Additionally, the effects of the different groups of microspheres on the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts and vascular endothelial cells were investigated. The prepared microspheres had a core‐shell structure with good homogeneity and dispersion, a clear boundary, and a smooth surface. On scanning electron microscopy, the mean diameter of the microspheres was similar for all six preparations (P > 0.05). During in vitro release, growth factor was initially released via a brief burst release from the outer shell of the microsphere followed by a slower sustained release. The release of growth factors from the inner core remained relatively slow and sustained. Sequential release of different growth factors was achieved through the inconsistent release rates from the microsphere shell and inner core. All groups of microspheres showed no cytotoxicity, good biocompatibility, and the ability to promote osteoblast proliferation. The microspheres loaded with BMP‐2 also promoted osteoblast differentiation, and VEGF‐loaded microspheres promoted the proliferation and differentiation of vascular endothelial cells. The BMP‐2 (core)/VEGF (shell) microsphere group best promoted osteoblast differentiation. The microspheres prepared in this study exhibited slow sequential release of BMP‐2 and VEGF and showed good biocompatibility along with the ability to promote osteoblast differentiation and vascular endothelial cell proliferation.
Economic and Diagnostic Biomarker Tests of Neonatal Sepsis: A Prospective Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in a Low‐Income Country
Authors: Khadka Priyatam , Maharjan Govinda , Chapagain Ganesh , JanukaThapaliya  , Paudyal Prakash
Published: November 2022

Background. Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in low‐and middle‐income countries (LMICs). There are several sophisticated biomarkers; however, they are still insufficient in precision. In this perspective, our study aims to search for a pragmatic diagnostic biomarker in the age category. Methods. A cross‐sectional study was conducted over six months(April‐September 2018). All neonates with a diagnosis of probable sepsis were included. Logistic regression analysis of demographic variables was done to elucidate any association with confirmed sepsis cases. The median with interquartile range (IQR)] and mean with standard deviation (SD) were calculated, and then compared. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of the commonly opted biomarker tests [distribution width of red blood cells (RDW) and platelets(PDW), mean platelet volume(MPV), C‐reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)] was compared to the culture‐confirmed case. Results. Of the 171 suspected sepsis subjects, we discovered a significant burden of newborn sepsis, with 18.7% of cases being culture‐confirmed. 66 Early‐onset sepsis(EOS) and 105 Late‐onset sepsis(LOS) probable sepsis cases were enrolled. A higher incidence was revealed among male infants 24(14%) compared to females 8(4.7%). On logistic regression analysis, preterm birth [odds ratio (OR): 10.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.5‐26.9] and low birth weight (OR: 6.5, 95% CI: 2.4‐17.9) were significantly associated. Coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus aureus (CoNS) (n =6) among gram‐positive, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n =6) was among gram‐negative, were the leading etiologies. Escherichia coli (n =3) was the predominant bacteria in EOS subjects, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n =6) among LOS. Median interquartile range(IQR): platelet count 144.5(99‐192), red cell distribution width 18(16.9‐20), CRP 6(3‐18.3); and mean ± SD: MPV (11.7 ± 1.7); PDW (15.2 ± 3.5) were attained, among confirmed cases. The AUROC, of biomarker tests was attained in the order: PDW(0.86) > MPV(0.81) > RDW(0.76) > CRP(0.67) > ESR(0.59); similarly, the cut‐off order was >11.2, >10.4, >16.8, >2.9, >4.5, respectively. Conclusions. Our finding shows an increment in the width and volume of RBCand platelet: RDW, MPV, and PDW have a diagnostic role in neonatal sepsis.
Determinants of Garlic Producers Market Outlet Choices in Goncha Siso Enese District, Northwest Ethiopia: A Multivariate Probit Regression Analysis
Authors: Chekol Fasika , Mazengia Teshager
Published: November 2022

This study investigates the factors influencing garlic producers’ market outlet selection decisions in Goncha Siso Enese District, Ethiopia. A total of 359 garlic producer households were polled, and the results were analyzed using a multivariate probit (MVP) model. According to the MVP model results, extension contact, access to market information, quantity of garlic sold, and farm experience in farming were negatively and significantly associated with the choice of consumer outlet. Besides this, the estimated MVP for retailer outlet choice is positively influenced by the amount of quantity sold, and farm experiences in garlic have a significant and positive effect on the choice of retailer outlets. In contrast, education level, access to credit, extension contact, and land area allocated for garlic have a negative influence on the choice of retail outlet. Moreover, wholesaler outlet choice is significantly and positively influenced by education level, access to credit, amount of quantity sold, extension contact, and distance to market, whereas it is negatively influenced by lagged price. Assembler outlet is also positively influenced by sex, distance to market, access to market information, and quantity sold, and negatively affected by extension contact and lag price. The implication is that, if smallholder garlic producers have access to alternative market outlets, they must select an appropriate combination of market outlets to maximize their income in the long run. It is suggested that equal access to marketing infrastructure in potential production areas, the garlic production system, and rural-urban development infrastructure should be improved and made more accessible.
HIV Status Disclosure and Quality of Life of People Living with HIV/AIDS in the Ho Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Agbeko Adams , Owusu Richard , Alhassan Yakubu , Letsa Timothy , Axame Wisdom Kudzo , Ogum-Alangea Deda
Published: November 2022

Background. Quality of life (QoL) and HIV/AIDS serostatus disclosure are vital HIV outcome indicators. This study examined factors associated with QoL, HIV status disclosure, and the relationship between QoL and disclosure among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) at the Ho Teaching Hospital. Methods. We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional survey among 311 PLWHIV. The World Health Organization WHOQOL-HIV BREF questionnaire was used to measure QoL. A semistructured questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-demographics and HIV serostatus disclosure. Multivariate logistic and multiple linear regressions were used to determine predictors of HIV serostatus disclosure and QoL in six domains, respectively. Results. Overall, 88.7% of participants disclosed their HIV status to a significant relation. The majority (98.1%) presented with good QoL, high (83.3%) among participants who disclosed their HIV seropositive status. Patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for more than a year were 8.64 times more likely to disclose their HIV status as compared to those on ART for less than a year (AOR = 8.64 (95% CI: 2.00–37.27),

p
=
0.004

). Increasing years on ART (β = 0.37) and being employed (β = 1.31) positively predicted good QoL in the physical domain, whereas higher educational level positively predicted good QoL in the social domain (β = 0.66). QoL was not associated with HIV serostatus disclosure. Conclusion. HIV status disclosure was high. Increasing years on ART increased the odds of disclosure. Although there was no significant relationship between QoL and disclosure, good QoL was high among those who disclosed their HIV status. Increasing years on ART, higher education, and being employed predicted good QoL.
The Antibacterial Effects of Cocktail and Single Forms of Lytic Phages Belonging to Podoviridae and Myoviridae Families from Sewage against Shigella sonnei and Shigella flexneri
Authors: Jokar Javad , Rahimian Niloofar , Ghasemian Abdolmajid , Najafipour Sohrab
Published: November 2022

Background. Diarrhea caused by bacterial pathogens such as Shigella spp. is one of the prominent public health concerns. The evolution of vast antibiotic resistance by these pathogens, leading to failure in the infections eradication, has made an impetus to seek and develop novel approaches. Recently, some alternative therapies such as phage therapy have been investigated. Bacteriophages are viruses that target specific bacterial species. The objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic effect of phages obtained from hospital sewage against Shigella sonnei (S. sonnei) ATCC® 9290 and S. flexneri ATCC 12022 standard and clinical strains. Methods. Four various lytic bacteriophages were isolated from animal fecal and sewage samples and propagated using S. sonnei and S. flexneri as host organisms. The phages’ morphology was determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The lytic potential and host specificity of isolated phages were evaluated using double layer plaque assay and spot test. Moreover, bacterial turbidity values were evaluated in coculture with phages in the Luria Bertani (LB) medium for 24 hours at time intervals of 30 min. Results. Phage cocktails (Shs1, Shs2, Shf1, and Shf2) exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than single phage application against S. sonnei and S. flexneri standard strains. The phages belonged to Podoviridae and Myoviridae families according to TEM‐assisted morphological features analysis. In addition, the phages exhibited host specificity using the spot test against 18 Shigella clinical isolates. Conclusion. In this study, phage cocktail of Podoviridae and Myoviridae families from sewage conferred substantial antibacterial effects against S. sonnei and S. flexneri. However, single phage effects were unstable in the LB coculture. Moreover, the phages had host specificity using the spot test performed against Shigella spp. clinical isolates.
Serum sPD1 and sPDL1 as Biomarkers for Evaluating the Immune State of Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Wu Yumin , Guo Hui , Yue Jiawei , Xu Peng
Published: November 2022

A large proportion of cancer patients benefit from immune checkpoint therapy, while few studies focused on the relationship between soluble PD1 (sPD1) and soluble PDL1 (sPDL1) in serum and immune status of patients. ILC2 and M2 were confirmed to be related to immunosuppression in tumor patients. To determine whether sPD1 and sPDL1 are correlated with the ratio of ILC2 and M2 is helpful to explore the possibility of using sPD1 and sPDL1 as tumor molecular markers. Our results showed an immune balance toward ILC2 and M2-like monocytes in patients with LUAD compared with healthy controls. Meanwhile, decreased CD4+T and CD8+T cells, as well as elevated PD1+CD8+T cells, were found in patients with LUAD. The relative mRNA expression levels of ILC2- and M2-characteristic cytokines were also upregulated accompanied by decreased mRNA expression levels of ILC1- and M1-characteristic cytokines in patients with LUAD compared to healthy controls. Moreover, elevated ILC2 frequencies as well as the amount of IL-13 were positively correlated with the amount of sPD1, however, there was no correlation between them and sPDL1. These results suggested that sPD1 and sPDL1 can serve as diagnostic markers to predict the immune state of cancer patients.
Probabilistic Load Flow of an Islanded Microgrid with WTGS and PV Uncertainties Containing Electric Vehicle Charging Loads
Authors: Gupta Neeraj , Prusty B. Rajanarayan
Published: November 2022

With the emphasis of utilities on decentralized power systems due to the considerable growth of renewable energy resources (RES), microgrids (MGs) as controllable small grids are need of an hour. For an objective analysis of microgrids with large grid parity of renewable energy sources, probabilistic methods are required along with the already established deterministic methods. A Gauss quadrature-based probabilistic load flow (GQPLF) method for microgrid has been proposed along with intermittent generation and uncertain loads, including electric vehicles (EVs). The distributed generation consists of wind turbine generation systems (WTGS) and photovoltaic systems (PVs) connected to 14 bus microgrid systems with six droop-controlled distributed generators. Extensive simulations have been carried out on a 14-bus microgrid with distributed generation and uncertain loads, and results are compared with the benchmark Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method, which validates the efficacy of the proposed method. The time taken by the proposed GQPLF for the 14-bus microgrid system simulation is 60.9 seconds, which is significantly less compared to the benchmark Monte Carlo simulation method, in which time taken for a 14-bus microgrid system with 10,000 simulations is 9318.7 seconds. Comparing the proposed GQPLF method with the benchmark method validates its efficacy and efficiency.
Successful Endoscopic Closure of Esophageal Perforation in Boerhaave Syndrome Using the Over-the-Scope Clip
Authors: Estorninho João , Pimentel Raquel , Gravito-Soares Marta , Gravito-Soares Elisa , Amaro Pedro , Figueiredo Pedro
Published: November 2022

Boerhaave syndrome (BS) is a rare but potentially fatal condition. Although surgery is considered the standard treatment, endoscopic therapy has acquired an important role as a minimally invasive management approach. The authors describe 2 cases of middle-aged male patients, presenting with spontaneous esophageal perforation after severe straining and vomiting. In the first case, the patient presented with a bone impaction in the upper esophagus successfully removed by rigid esophagoscopy. After the procedure, a chest X-ray/cervicothoracic computerized tomography scan (CT) showed a left hydropneumothorax and pneumomediastinum with oral contrast leak at the lower esophagus. In the second case, the patient presented to the Emergency Department with severe chest pain after an episode of vomiting. The CT showed a massive pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, and an oral contrast leak compatible with BS. The patient was initially submitted to surgical suture, but contrast extravasation persisted after 12 days. After multidisciplinary team discussion of both patients, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed, which revealed pericentimetric wall defects at the distal esophagus. These were successfully closed using an over-the-scope clip (OTSC). After at least a 9-month follow-up, patients have remained clinically well with no relapse. The authors highlight the severity of these clinical cases and the endoscopic option that proved to be decisive in addressing BS. The favorable outcomes suggest a role for the OTSC approach in closing spontaneous esophageal perforation both as first-line and as rescue therapy after a surgical failure.
Análise de redes sociais contra a corrupção: estudo do orçamento público vinculado à pandemia do Covid-19
Authors: Lima Rafael Sousa , Serrano André Luiz Marques
Published: November 2022

O combate à pandemia desencadeou quase que imediatamente reações por parte de governos em todo o mundo. Recursos econômicos foram direcionados para manutenção da economia e auxílio a famílias e empresas, gerando alterações sem precedentes nos orçamentos públicos. Considerando que a corrupção é um mal que aflige todas as sociedades, abriu-se uma janela de oportunidade para desvios de recursos públicos. Nesse contexto, este estudo teve por objetivo analisar os créditos extraordinários abertos no orçamento federal de 2020 destinados ao enfrentamento da pandemia do Covid-19, capturando dados da execução orçamentária e promovendo análises em busca de sinalizações para atos de corrupção nos municípios. Para tanto, foram utilizados métodos quantitativos e qualitativos, suportados pela Análise de Redes Sociais e mineração de grafos. Os resultados indicam o potencial da abordagem com grafos na identificação de localidades mais suscetíveis à existência de atos de corrupção, uma vez que o estudo das relações entre empresas e municípios oferece insights investigativos que provavelmente não seriam alcançados por meio de modelos tradicionais de investigação. Como contribuição, os achados da pesquisa podem ser úteis para pesquisadores e profissionais que buscam métodos para fortalecer as atividades dos órgãos de fiscalização e controle, contribuindo com o aperfeiçoamento da gestão pública.