bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process evaluation of an mHealth-based school education program to reduce salt intake scaling up in China (EduSaltS): A mixed methods study using the RE-AIM framework
Authors: Guo Haijun , Li Yuan , Li Li , Luo Rong , Wang Lanlan , Yi Guangming , Zhang Gang , He Fengjun , Wang Changqiong , Wang Naibo , Li Lihuang , Mao Tao , Lin Jiajin , Li Yinghua , Zhang Puhong
Published: April 2024

Background
An mHealth-based school health education program (EduSaltS) has been implemented in China for reducing salt intake among children, but the scaling up is challenging, and the effectiveness could be jeopardized by deviations in its implementation. This study aims to explore the implementation process and the factors that impact its implementation in the real world.
Methods
Mixed methods RE-AIM framework were employed for the process evaluation. The quantitative data were retrieved from the management website that monitoring 54435 participants from the third-grade students in two cities. Before-after questionnaire surveys were conducted to evaluate the education effectiveness. Analysis of variance and Chi square-test were used to examine differences for numerical data and category data respectively, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Qualitative methods were used to identify the facilitators and barriers by conducting individual interviews (n = 23) and eight focus-groups (n = 80). Qualitative data analysis followed the thematical protocol. The findings from the mixed methods were triangulated for integration.
Results
The percentage of students who registered with the EduSaltS was significantly high (97.7%) due to the participants’ strong preferences and school support. Knowledge and behaviour related to salt reduction improved, and the standard score of knowledge and practice increased from 75.1 to 80.9 out of 100. All 208 invited schools adopted the program and hosted 3999 class activities and 1800 school activities during the two-term program. The completion rates of the 20 health cloud courses fluctuated between 79.4% and 93.4%, with an average of 84.9%. Qualitative interviews showed that the implementation of the EduSaltS was strongly facilitated by policy support from the education sector as well as app-aided auto delivered courses, home-school cooperation, proper incentives, real-time monitoring and management, but hindered by parents' lack of smartphone skills at the initial stage, competing school health priorities and unhealthy off-campus environments.
Conclusions
mHealth-based innovative school health education is scalable given the wide coverage, high acceptability and expected implementation effects of the EduSaltS. The findings regarding the barriers and facilitators can be used to enrich further scaling-up of EduSaltS and similar strategies in larger populations and various settings.
In vitro model of vascular remodeling under microfluidic perfusion
Authors: Nishikata Kotaro , Doi Kimisato , Kaneoya Nobuyoshi , Futai Nobuyuki
Published: April 2024

We developed a portable microfluidic system that combines spontaneous lumen formation from human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) in fibrin-collagen hydrogels with active perfusion controlled by a braille actuator. Adaptive interstitial flow and feedthrough perfusion switching enabled successful culture of spontaneously formed naturally branched lumens for more than one month. We obtained many large-area (2 mm × 3 mm) long-term (more than 30 days per run) time-lapse image datasets of the in vitro luminal network using this microfluidic system. We also developed an automatic image analysis pipeline to extract the morphology of the lumen network and node-edge network structure weighted with segmentwise flow parameters. Automatic lumen area measurements revealed that almost all lumens were successfully cultured in this system for approximately 50 days, following the meshwork, sprouting, remodeling, stability, and erosion stages. We found that the optimization of the lumen network during the remodeling stage can be explained by the decrease in the betweenness centrality of the WSS-weighted network and the increase in the strength centrality of the flow rate-weighted network.
Network-based time series modeling for COVID-19 incidence in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Armbruster Stephanie , Reinert Gesine
Published: April 2024

Network-based time series models have experienced a surge in popularity over the past years due to their ability to model temporal and spatial dependencies, arising from the spread of infectious disease.The generalised network autoregressive (GNAR) model conceptualises time series on the vertices of a network; it has an autoregressive component for temporal dependence and a spatial autoregressive component for dependence between neighbouring vertices in the network. Consequently, the choice of underlying network is essential.This paper assesses the performance of GNAR models on different networks in predicting COVID-19 cases for the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland, over two distinct pandemic phases (restricted and unrestricted), characterised by inter-county movement restrictions.Ten static networks are constructed, in which vertices represent counties, and edges are built upon neighbourhood relations, such as railway lines. We find that a GNAR model based on the fairly sparse Queen's contiguity network explains the data best for the restricted pandemic phase while the fairly dense 21-nearest neighbour network performs best for the unrestricted phase.Across phases, GNAR models have higher predictive accuracy than standard ARIMA models which ignore the network structure. For county-specific predictions, in pandemic phases with more lenient or no COVID-19 regulation, the network effect is not quite as pronounced. The results indicate some robustness to the precise network architecture as long as the densities of the networks are similar.An analysis of the residuals justifies the model assumptions for the restricted phase but raises questions regarding their validity for the unrestricted phase.While outperforming ARIMA models which ignore network effects, the GNAR model warrants further development to better model complex infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
2020 Mathematics Subject Classification: 62M10, 05C82, 91D30 Network-based time series, COVID-19, spatial models, networks
Primary school teachers' attitudes and knowledge regarding pupils' hearing loss and the challenges they encounter while teaching in central Tanzania
Authors: Abraham Zephania Saitabau , Masunga Haruni , Kahinga Aveline
Published: April 2024

Background
Primary school teachers are early educators who encounter pupils with disabilities earlier than other educators at different levels. Hearing loss tends to impair cognitive development and academic performance pupils. This study aimed to address such an existing gap in Tanzania since there is no any study that has been conducted in our country on similar topic despite being of public health significance.
Methods
A community based cross-sectional study design was used where 405 primary school teachers in Manyoni district were recruited using multistage cluster sampling technique. Data was collected using Swahili translated semi-structured questionnaires and analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant
Results
In this study 70.9% of primary school teachers had poor knowledge toward hearing loss among pupils and only 8.1% of teachers expressed good level of knowledge about hearing loss. This study has found a significant association between the overall knowledge of teachers and age as the only socio-demographic characteristic of the study participants (P-value = 0.000) though no association was found between marital status, education level, having children and sex (p-values being 0.534, 0.28, 0.261 and 0.934 respectively). Pertaining attitude of teachers toward hearing loss among pupils, this study found 44.8% to have negative attitude, 48.1% had intermediate attitude and only 3.5% had positive attitude. On the other hand, 75% of teachers agreed that hearing impaired students would achieve better academically in special schools. The association between socio-demographic and professional characteristics and the overall attitude of teachers towards pupils’ hearing loss was not statistically significant. This study has found a statistically significant association between the overall knowledge and overall attitude of primary school teachers towards pupils’ hearing loss (p-value = 0.024).
Conclusions
Primary school teachers' attitudes and knowledge regarding pupils' hearing loss was found to be mostly poor to intermediate. Most teachers had limited knowledge of hearing loss especially on the causes, risk factors and symptoms of hearing loss. Educational campaigns to improve knowledge and attitude of primary teachers toward pupils’ hearing loss for excellence academically, socially and emotionally should be spearheaded in Manyoni district.
Trends and predictors of severe and moderate anaemia among children aged 6-59 months in India: An analysis of three rounds of National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data
Authors: Preethi Vegi , Hemalatha Vegi , Arlappa N. , M Benson Thomas , Jaleel Abdul
Published: April 2024

Background
Despite attempts to tackle malnutrition, childhood anaemia remains a significant public health concern impacting both child development and overall health in India. This study aims to analyse the prevalence rates and identify time-independent (unchanging) predictors associated with anaemia severity among children in India.
Methods
Data analysis was conducted using NFHS datasets from three survey rounds. The final analytical sample for this study comprised 40,331 children in NFHS-3 (2005–2006), 200,093 in NFHS-4 (2015–2016) and 178,909 in NFHS-5 (2019–2021). Descriptive, multivariable and binary logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with severe and moderate anaemia among children aged 6–59 months. All statistical analyses were conducted using Stata-14, a software package developed by Stata Corp.
Results
There has been an increase in the prevalence of severe anaemia among children from NFHS-4 to NFHS-5. Among all three rounds of NFHS, the highest prevalence of severe anaemia was observed among children aged 12–23 months, particularly among males compared to females. Urban children and those belonging to SC/ST communities experienced higher rates of severe/moderate anaemia. Moreover, children born to mothers with 4–5 children (OR 1.1, p < 0.05) and 6 or more children (OR 1.2, p < 0.05) demonstrated an increased likelihood of severe/moderate anaemia. Additionally, children whose mothers had no education were found to be 1.4 times more susceptible to severe/moderate anaemia. These factors consistently predict severe/moderate anaemia among children aged 6–59 months in India, suggesting they are predictors of anaemia independent of time in the country.
Conclusion
This study highlights the trends and predictors of severe/moderate anaemia among Indian children which is vital for designing effective public health interventions. Targeted approaches like nutritional supplementation, maternal education programs, improving household diet diversity, and community-based interventions are essential to combat anaemia effectively to improve the overall health and well-being of children.
Life Cycle Assessment of Single versus Multiple Use Medical Products: A Case Study of Steam Sterilization Packaging
Authors: Ramos Tiffany M , Eriksen Ofir , Cimpan Ciprian , Khoshnevisan Benyamin , Christensen Thomas Budde , Hooge Asta , Syberg Kristian
Published: April 2024

Plastic pollution has emerged as a critical global environmental challenge, exacerbated by the extensive use of plastics in the healthcare industry. This study examines the environmental impacts of single-use plastic sterilization wraps versus reusable sterilization cases (RSCs) commonly used in operating theaters (OTs). We employ Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies to compare their life cycles, considering raw materials, production, use, and disposal phases. Our findings indicate that RSCs result in substantially lower environmental burdens compared to single-use wraps. Furthermore, we explore three circumstances: current practices, a future circumstance with renewable energy transitions, and an ideal "best case" circumstance integrating renewable energy and increased recycling potential of polypropylene (PP) fractions. Additionally, we assess practical implications for medical staff and facilities during product transitions, alongside considerations for expanding sorting practices for single-use medical PP products. This research addresses a gap in comparative analysis within the European context, offering insights to guide decision-makers in reducing plastic consumption in healthcare settings. Further studies of this nature are imperative to inform sustainable practices and policies in the healthcare sector.
Surviving aluminum phosphide poisoning induced cardiotoxicity- a case report
Authors: Gebray Habtamu Mesele , Chekol Addisu Liknaw
Published: April 2024

Introduction
Aluminum phosphide which is a cheap and commonly used rodenticide is also an effective solid fumigant that is frequently used for grain preservation. The pill contains around 44% inert elements to avoid disintegration of the tablet, ammonium carbonate, while the rest (about 56%) is aluminum phosphide. Because it is freely available in the market and accessibility is not controlled in developing countries, it is one of the commonly used agents for self-poisoning in different parts of the developing world
Case presentation
We presented a 48 years old female patient who was taken to private clinic after 6 hours of intentional ingestion of two tablets of Aluminum phosphide. She was presented with restlessness of 03 hours duration with confusion. She had 06 episodes of vomiting of ingested matter. Upon examination, the patient was drowsy, pale, cold and clammy. She had non-recordable blood pressure and radial pulsation. Glasgow Coma Scale was 14/15. Routine lab investigations and initial Electrocardiogram were normal. Six hours after Intensive Care Unit admission, the Electrocardiogram showed atrial fibrillation with fast ventricular response, ST segment elevation and inverted T-waves. Cardiac troponin level was elevated. Hospital based protocol for a hypotensive patient with aluminum phosphide poisoning was administered and medical treatment of myocardial infarction was given. These measures ultimately resulted in a complete resolution of clinical findings and laboratory derangements.
Conclusion
Exposure to phosphine gas released from ALP fumigants increases the risk of major morbidity and mortality. The mortality due to ALP poisoning is very high and variable. The use of Magnesium sulphate to reduce cardiac arrhythmias and mortality is well documented but there is no uniformity in dose and frequency of its administration worldwide.
Ductal carcinoma in-situ arising within benign phyllodes tumours: review of the literature and case presentation
Authors: Giulia Deguidi , Alessia Nottegar , Marco Barillari , Denise Fiorini , Alessandra Invento , Mirandola Sara , Caldana Marina , Tombolan Valeria , Bertoldi Lorenzo , Bosio Giacomo , Pellini Francesca
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION: Phyllodes tumor (PT) is a rare benign tumor of the breast with a propensity to recur and metastasize. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) within PT is an extremely rare finding and is usually diagnosed postoperatively.
CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of a 24-year-old female with bilateral multiple fibroadenomatosis and a growing lump in her right breast diagnosed as a atypical lobular hyperplasia. Preoperatively, surgical biopsy revealed DCIS within benign PT.
DISCUSSION: Phyllodes tumors are rare and ones with a coexisting carcinoma are even less frequently encountered. No standard management protocol exists for such cases, but when detected by histopathology, the clinical management and prognosis have to undergo a complete change. Treatment should be guided by the type and stage of carcinoma detected and proper individualized management by a multidisciplinary team play a crucial role.
CONCLUSION: Phyllodes tumors are rare and ones with a coexisting carcinoma are even less frequently encountered. No standard management protocol exists for such cases, but when detected by histopathology, the clinical management and prognosis have to undergo a complete change. Preoperative diagnosis and proper individualized management by a multidisciplinary team that ensures clear surgical margins and planned adjuvant therapy or close follow up play a crucial role in preventing the recurrence of DCIS within PT.
Hypomagnesemia and Fractional Excretion of Magnesium (FeMg) in Children with Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Garg Neha , Mahajan Akanksha , Mantan Mukta , Goswami Binita
Published: April 2024

Background- Hypomagnesemia and increased FeMg have been identified in patients with tubular damage; we explore the possibility of using these parameters to identify tubular damage in children with nephrotic syndrome especially those with steroid resistant disease.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was done from July 2021-July 2022 (n= 50); itsprimary objective was to estimate FeMg and serum magnesium levels in children and adolescents (2-18 years) with nephrotic syndrome (both steroid sensitive and steroid resistant), currently in remission. Those with CKD stage 3 or more, receiving drugs like diuretics, aminoglycosides, proton pump inhibitors, secondary and congenital nephrotic syndrome were excluded. Clinical details were elicited and biochemical investigations including urinary estimations of magnesium and creatinine were done.
Results- 50 (31M: 19F) children (25 SSNS and25 SRNS) with median (IQR) age 10 years (7;11) were enrolled. Hypomagnesemia (S. magnesium<1.8 mg/dl)was seen in 36% and 52% (p=0.45) and FeMg was 1.76% and 1.39% in the SSNS and SRNS groups respectively (p= 0.25); none of the patients had symptoms of hypomagnesemia and increased FeMg (>2.2%) was similar (28%) in both groups.
Conclusion- Hypomagnesemia appears to be a common electrolyte abnormality in children with nephrotic syndrome in disease remission especially in SRNS and underlying tubular damage may be contributory both in SSNS and SRNS.
Influence of improvement in frontal lobe hemodynamics on neurocognitive function in adult patients with moyamoya disease
Authors: Tsunoda Sho , Inoue Tomohiro , Ohwaki Kazuhiro , Takeuchi Naoko , Shinkai Takako , Fukuda Akira , Segawa Masafumi , Kawashima Mariko , Akabane Atsuya , Miyawaki Satoru , Saito Nobuhito
Published: April 2024

Background
Adult moyamoya disease (MMD) often present with slight neurocognitive impairment. This impairment may result from frontal lobe hemodynamic insufficiency.
Methods
In current study, we performed revascularization surgery incorporating superficial temporal artery (STA)–anterior cerebral artery (ACA) direct bypass for 20 adults with MMD who had poor anterograde ACA flow (Group A), and pre- and postoperative results of neurocognitive tests were retrospectively analyzed. The comparative group (Group C) included 23 patients with unruptured aneurysms or brain tumors who underwent craniotomy and the same neurocognitive tests as patients with MMD. We calculated the compositive frontal lobe function index (CFFI) based on seven neurocognitive tests for each patient, and the difference between the pre- and postoperative CFFI values (CFFI Post − Pre) was compared between the two groups.
Results
Frontal perfusion was improved postoperatively in all cases of Group A. The CFFI Post − Pre was significantly higher in Group A than in Group C (0.23 ± 0.44 vs. −0.20 ± 0.32; p < 0.001). After adjusting for postoperative age, sex, preoperative non-verbal intelligence quotient and preoperative period of stress, Group A had a significantly higher CFFI Post − Pre than Group C in the multiple regression analysis (t value = 4.01; p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Improvement of frontal hemodynamics might be the key for improving neurocognitive dysfunction in adult MMD. The surgical indication and method should probably be considered not only from the perspective of stroke prevention, but also from the perspective of neurocognitive improvement or protection.
Effect of online peer support on mental health among patients of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection: A systematic review
Authors: Kataoka Mayumi , Hazumi Megumi , Usuda Kentaro , Miyake Michi , Nishi Daisuke
Published: April 2024

Background
Psychosocial burdens of the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) are an emerging public health concern. Online peer support is expected to be effective in improving the mental health of PASC patients. However, the effectiveness of these treatments remains unclear. This study investigated the effectiveness of online peer support for improving the mental health of PASC patients.
Methods
We searched the MEDLINE, PsycINFO/PsycArticles, and Japan Medical Abstracts Society electronic databases for studies on June 12, 2023. The inclusion criteria for studies were as follows: 1) patients with post-COVID-19 conditions over 18 years of age; 2) conducted online peer support exposure or intervention; 3) measured mental health-related outcomes using quantity scales; and 4) peer-reviewed original articles written in English or Japanese. We excluded qualitative studies that did not use quantitative scales to measure outcomes and original peer-reviewed articles. We conducted risk of bias assessments with the Risk of Bias Assessment instrument designed for non-randomized studies (RoBANS).
Results
A total of 157 studies were retrieved, and two met the inclusion criteria. The total numbers of participants in the two studies were 239 and 47, respectively. One was a cohort study, and the other was a pre-post study; neither had a control group. Most participants in both studies were middle-aged women or female from high-income European countries. Exposure or intervention included sharing sources of support (e.g., experiences, knowledge, and expertise) and peer support combined with workshops for the self-management of physical and mental health facilitated by trained medical experts. The effectiveness of online peer support on mental health outcomes was also assessed. Two studies reported significant improvements in work productivity, functional status, quality of life, self-efficacy, and well-being. Both studies were rated as high or unclear in most risk-of-bias domains. No meta-analysis was performed because of the small number of included studies.
Conclusions
Few studies examine online peer support for improving mental health-related outcomes among PASC patients, and evidence of its effectiveness is unclear. Well-designed studies are required to conduct meta-analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of online peer support for PASC patients.
Decitabine regulates the resistance of Hep3B to sorafenib through demethylation
Authors: zhang Miao , han Qiaoqiao , miao Yu , zhao Tianyu , wang Libo , xu Yongdeng , Wang Ze , Cui Tao , Yi Xiulin
Published: April 2024

Purpose：To investigate the mechanism of drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma treated with sorafenib from an epigenetic perspective , and to examine the effect of Sorafenib sensitivity on hepatocellular carcinoma after in vitro and vivo combination with the epigenetic drug decitabine . This research aims to provide new ideas and methods for the clinical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Methods: Using the GEPIA 2 database, the expression of organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3 (OATP1B3) gene in different tumors and adjacent normal tissues of 508 patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was retrieved. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to perform survival analysis by grouping based on the expression levels of this gene.. Using the TCGA-LIHC dataset to analyze the correlation between SLCO1B3 and DNMTs. Additionally, OATP1B3 promoter methylation levels were detected in Hep3B, HepG2, SNU182, LM3, HUH7, and SNU387 cells using bisulfite methylation data. The expression of OATP1B3 was assessed by RT-qPCR and Western Blot. The effect of Sorafenib in combination with DAC on the proliferation of Hep3B cells was dynamically monitored using RTCA-eSight. The mechanism was further verified in vivo using an in situ implantation tumor model in nude mice. The expression of OATP1B3 in tumor tissues was detected by immunohistochemical staining and Western Blot.
Results: Individuals with high expression of the OATP1B3 gene have a significantly higher overall survival rate than individuals with low expression. The negative correlation between SLCO1B3 expression and the DNA methyltransferase DNMT1.In Hep3B,the DNA methylation of OATP1B3 results in decreased protein expression. After DAC incubation, OATP1B3 expression was up-regulated. Following DAC administration, Hep3B proliferated at a considerably lesser rate than the Sorafenib group. The absorption of Sorafenib by Hep3B was raised by 1.87-fold following co-administration of DAC. According to the Hep3B xenograft nude mice model data, the tumor sizes in the combination group were all noticeably lower after 21 days of dosing than those in the Sorafenib alone, DAC, and Control groups. Both the combination group and the DAC group had significantly greater levels of OATP1B3 expression than control and Sorafenib group.
Conclusion: By inhibiting the DNA methylation of SLCO1B3 and increasing the expression of OATP1B3, which mediates Sorafenib transmembrane transporter protein, the epigenetic drug decitabine can enhance the accumulation of Sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. This enhances sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and reverses resistance to Sorafenib.
TSNet:A Two-stage Network for Image Dehazing with Multi-scale Fusion and Adaptive Learning
Authors: Gong Xiaolin , Zheng Zehan , Du Heyuan
Published: April 2024

Image dehazing has been a popular topic of research for a long time. Previous deep learning-based image dehazing methods have failed to achieve satisfactory dehazing effects on both synthetic datasets and real-world datasets, exhibiting poor generalization. Moreover, single-stage networks often result in many regions with artifacts and color distortion in output images. To address these issues, this paper proposes a two-stage image dehazing network called TSNet, mainly consisting of the multi-scale fusion module (MSFM) and the adaptive learning module (ALM). Specifically, MSFM and ALM enhance the generalization of TSNet. The MSFM can obtain large receptive fields at multiple scales and integrate features at different frequencies to reduce the differences between inputs and learning objectives. The ALM can actively learn of regions of interest in images and restore texture details more effectively. Additionally, TSNet is designed as a two-stage network, where the first-stage network performs image dehazing, and the second-stage network is employed to improve issues such as artifacts and color distortion present in the results of the first-stage network. We also change the learning objective from ground truth images to opposite fog maps, which improves the learning efficiency of TSNet. Extensive experiments demonstrate that TSNet exhibits superior dehazing performance on both synthetic and real-world datasets compared to previous state-of-the-art methods. The related code is released at https://github.com/zzhlovexuexi/TSNet
Electrostatic Potential Mapped onto Electron Density Surface, ADME, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Some Indolin-2-one Analogues as Cytochrome C Peroxidase Inhibitors
Authors: Otuokere Ifeanyi E
Published: April 2024

The transfer of cytochrome c (cyt c) from the mitochondria to the cytosol is commonly regarded as the final stage in the mitochondria-mediated apoptotic response, where there is no possibility of intervention. A potential approach for the development of antiapoptotic medicines involves the inhibition of cyt c interactions. Therefore, it is necessary to develop more effective pharmaceuticals that can inhibit the functioning of cytochrome c peroxidase. The PyRx virtual screening programme was used to conduct a molecular docking investigation on five indolin-2-one (IDL) analogues as inhibitors of cytochrome c peroxidase. The study on ADME was conducted via the SWISSADME server. The Schrondinger suite was utilized to do molecular dynamics (MD) analysis. The binding affinity of the five IDL analogues were − 14.0 to − 15.1 Kcal/mol. The interactions with the receptor (2X08) were facilitated through various mechanisms, including hydrophobic interactions, salt bridges, hydrogen bonds, π-stacking, and electrostatic bonds. These interactions were facilitated by the presence of specific amino acid residues, namely TRP 51A, PHE 158A, LEU 171A, ALA 174A, PHE 266A, PHE 266A, and LEU 239. The present study made predictions for the ADME features of the substances under investigation, revealing favourable pharmacokinetic characteristics. The study additionally predicted the drug-like characteristics of the compounds and determines their oral bioavailability, indicating favourable bioavailability ratings. The molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated the high stability of the optimal IDL analogue with the 2X08 binding pocket. It was concluded that these compounds could be used as potential drugs for the inhibition of cytochrome c peroxidase.
Immediate Fortification of Human Milk with a Bovine Milk Derived Human Milk Fortifier in Very Low Birth Weight Infants: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: STANSFIELD Brian , Wynter Zanna , Gorham Jane Anne , Thompson Amy , Mundy Cynthia , Waller Jennifer
Published: April 2024

Objective
Double-blind randomized control trial of early addition of a bovine milk derived human milk fortifier (HMF) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants (NCT05228535).
Methods
VLBW infants were randomized to receive bovine milk derived HMF with first feedings or delayed fortification at 80 ml/kg/day. Anthropometrics were assessed weekly through 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA). Unadjusted and adjusted (race, gender, gestational age, and birth weight) differences between study arms were examined using two-sample t-test and ANCOVA, respectively.
Results
Fifty-two VLBW infants (57% female, 60% Black) were enrolled. Baseline demographics did not differ between groups. Weight velocity at DOL 28 did not differ between study arms. Secondary outcomes including NPO occurrence, incidence of metabolic acidosis, NEC, retinopathy, or late onset sepsis did not differ between groups.
Conclusion
Immediate fortification of enteral feedings with a bovine milk derived HMF is safe and well-tolerated although no clear growth benefit could be established.
Levels of Evidence: III
Association of comprehensive geriatric assessment with multidisciplinary treatment decision and adherence in elderly breast cancer patients
Authors: Jin Yihua , Yu Jing , Zhang Xu , Zhu Siji , Shen Kunwei , Chen Xiaosong
Published: April 2024

Purpose
To assess the association of comprehensive geriatric assessments (CGA) and multidisciplinary team (MDT) treatment decision and adherence in elderly breast cancer patients.
Methods
Aged ≥ 60 patients were prospectively enrolled between June 2019 and January 2020. CGA was surveyed by 9 questionnaires before breast cancer surgery. Adjuvant treatment decisions were made by MDT discussion. Factors associated with adjuvant treatment decision were analyzed. Patients’ adherence to MDT decision according to CGA were also analyzed.
Results
A total of 211 patients were included: 87 (41.2%), 102 (48.3%), and 22 (10.4%) patients with age between 60–69, 70–79, and over 80, respectively. Patients with lower scores of VES-13 (95.7% vs 77.8%, P = 0.021) and higher scores of BI (96.7% vs 75%, P = 0.003) were more likely to be recommended with adjuvant radiotherapy. Rates of adjuvant chemotherapy recommendation was also higher for patients with lower VES score (46.8% vs 21.1%, P = 0.004) and higher BI score (45.6% vs 27.5%, P = 0.037). Adherence to adjuvant chemotherapy recommendation was found better in patients with fitter scores of CCI-adjustment (80.3% vs 53.8%, P = 0.038)
Conclusion
CGA was associated with adjuvant radiotherapy MDT decision, which also influenced the adherence to MDT adjuvant chemotherapy recommendation in elderly breast cancer patients.
Optimizing the Treatment of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: A Maintenance-Free Strategy for Complete Remission
Authors: Kamruzzaman Muhammad , Proma Sanghita Banik , Pramanik Mohit Kumar , Afrin Marzia , Islam Md. Sirajul
Published: April 2024

Background:
Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a distinct variant of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), comprising 5–10% of all AML cases. Characterized by the t(15;17) chromosomal translocation, APL presents a unique challenge due to its associated bleeding manifestations and coagulopathy, emphasizing the need for urgent and specialized management.
Methods:
This prospective open-label pilot study enrolled ten newly diagnosed APL patients, stratified based on the Sanz risk score. Low and intermediate-risk patients underwent ATRA-ATO induction therapy, followed by consolidation therapy. High-risk patients received additional Daunorubicin or Mitoxantrone alongside ATRA-ATO induction. The study evaluated patient characteristics, clinical findings, laboratory results, and treatment outcomes, focusing on complete remission (CR) after induction therapy and disease-free survival (DFS) at 3 years.
Results:
The study observed a 100% CR rate after induction therapy, with favorable 3-year DFS and event-free survival (EFS). No treatment failures, mortality, or relapses were reported. Laboratory findings and clinical outcomes were consistent with established characteristics of APL. The absence of maintenance therapy minimized associated toxicities, supporting the safety and efficacy of the chemotherapy-free ATRA-ATO approach.
Conclusion:
This pilot study underscores the potential paradigm shift in APL management by demonstrating the safety and efficacy of a chemotherapy-free ATRA-ATO strategy. The results align with the 2023 National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) update, endorsing the ATRA-ATO regimen for APL. The ongoing nature of the research emphasizes its contribution to evolving APL management practices, encouraging further comprehensive evaluations on a broader scale.
Guidelines for Sport Compressive Garments Design: Finite Element Simulations Approach
Authors: Cudicio Alessandro , Cogliati Marta , Bonardi Alberto , Benedini Marco , Rizzi Gianluca
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Despite compression garments (CG) having acquired significant attention in the sports field, there remains ongoing debate regarding their actual effectiveness in enhancing athletic performance and expediting post-exercise recovery. This article delves into various aspects, with a focus on CG design and the materials they are made of, aiming to analyze the importance of personalized compression strategies based on individual anthropometric measurements and non-linear compression designs.
Methods
Through anthropometric analysis of 40 healthy participants, this study examined the morphological characteristics of the lower limb and their implications for CG design.
Results
Measurements of limb length and circumferences revealed complex interactions among anatomical variables, emphasizing the need for customized and adaptable device design. Finite element simulations further clarified the challenges in achieving uniform pressure gradients along the lower limb, highlighting the limitations of one-piece devices and suggesting tailored segmented designs for individual limb segments.
Conclusion
The results demonstrated that while one-piece devices may offer simplicity, they often fail to provide optimal compression due to non-linear variations in limb dimensions. Conversely, segmented devices, particularly those with bilinear progression, exhibited superior performance in applying targeted compression across different limb segments. This more detailed approach to customization could significantly contribute to optimizing outcomes and user comfort.
Aphid species (Hemiptera: Aphididae) recorded for the first time from the Tunisian network
Authors: Boukhris-Bouhachem Sonia , Souissi Rebha , Boukteb’s Amal
Published: April 2024

In a previous paper, one hundred thirty aphid taxa were recorded in Tunisia including 103 species. In this present work, we give additional records from the Cap Bon region in the North East of Tunisia. Eighty-one new species and 8 taxa were added for the first time. These records are based on daily suction trap and weekly yellow trap catches for 14 years from 2005 to 2018. This addition brings the number of aphids from Tunisia to 219 taxa. The aphid species (86) and subspecies (3) from the Aphididae family were ranged in 7 subfamilies: Aphidinae (64 species and 28 genera), Eriosomatinae (9 species and 6 genera), Chaitophorinae (2 species and 2 genera), Greenideinae (2 species and 1 genus), Lachninae (4 species and 3 genera), Calaphinae (6 species and 5 genera), Saltuaphidinae (2 species and 1 genera). All specimens are conserved in microscopic slides in the Plant Protection Laboratory of INRAT. Furthermore, among this list, other potential aphids as virus vectors were identified in this region.
The efficacy and safety of fluid gelatin for LSS undergoing PE-ULBD : a prospective, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yan Hao , Yao Ruzhan , Yu Mingdong , Dou Rongsheng , Zhang Yu , Wang Huaibin , Shi Yulin , Liu Weiqiang
Published: April 2024

Background. Absorbable fluid gelatin is a novel collagen hemostatic agent that has been validated in multiple surgical procedures. However, the efficacy of using this hemostatic agent during percutaneous endoscopic unilateral laminectomy for bilateral decompression (PE-ULBD) remains controversial. Our research aims to conduct a prospective randomized controlled trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of this hemostatic material in patients undergoing PE-ULBD for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).
Methods. From October2023 to February 2024, a total of 90 patients with LSS who underwent PE-ULBD, were enrolled in this study. The 90 patients were randomly divided into two groups: the TGTMS group (45 cases, using fluid gelatin) and the non-TGTMS group (45 cases, not using fluid gelatin). Primary outcomes included perioperative blood loss and intraoperative clotting time. Secondary outcomes encompassed surgical time, length of stay, hospital expenses, and complications.
Results. There were statistically significant differences in primary outcomes which included perioperative blood loss and intraoperative clotting time between patients who received the TGTMS group and the control. The secondary outcomes of the two groups include surgical time, length of stay, hospital expenses and complications, among which only surgical time has significant statistical differences.
Conclusions. When patients with LSS undergo PE-ULBD, the prophylactic use of fluid gelatin can reduce intraoperative and postoperative bleeding without any observed additional complications. Therefore, the prophylactic use of fluid gelatin in PE-ULBD is an effective and safe strategy.
Trial registration: The study was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry website(www.chictr.org.cn) with registration number ChiCTR2300077538.
A Reproducible and Robust Representation of Tibiofemoral Kinematics of the Healthy Knee Joint during Stair Descent using REFRAME – Part I: REFRAME Foundations and Validation
Authors: Ortigas-Vásquez Ariana , Taylor William R. , Postolka Barbara , Schütz Pascal , Maas Allan , Woiczinski Matthias , Grupp Thomas M. , Sauer Adrian
Published: April 2024

In clinical movement biomechanics, kinematic measurements are collected to characterise the motion of articulating joints and investigate how different factors influence movement patterns. Representative time-series signals are calculated to encapsulate (complex and multidimensional) kinematic datasets succinctly. Exacerbated by a lack of consensus around joint coordinate frame definitions, the influence of local frame orientation and position on the characteristics of the resultant kinematic signals has been previously proven to be a major limitation. Consequently, for consistent interpretation of joint motion (especially direct comparison) to be possible, differences in local frame position and orientation must first be addressed. Here, building on previous work that introduced a frame orientation optimisation method and demonstrated its potential to induce convergence towards a consistent kinematic signal, we present the REference FRame Alignment MEthod (REFRAME) that addresses both rotational and translational kinematics, is validated here for a healthy tibiofemoral joint, and allows flexible selection of optimisation criteria to fittingly address specific research questions. While not claiming to improve the accuracy of joint kinematics or reference frame axes, REFRAME does enable a representation of knee kinematic signals that accounts for differences in local frames (regardless of how these differences were introduced, e.g. anatomical heterogeneity, use of different data capture modalities or joint axis approaches, intra- and inter-rater reliability, etc.), as evidenced by peak root-mean-square errors of 0.24° ± 0.17° and 0.03 mm ± 0.01 mm after its implementation. By using a self-contained optimisation approach to systematically re-align the position and orientation of reference frames, REFRAME allows researchers to better assess whether two kinematic signals represent fundamentally similar or different underlying knee motion. The openly available implementation of REFRAME could therefore allow the consistent interpretation and comparison of knee kinematic signals across trials, subjects, examiners, or even research institutes.
The Effects of an 8-Week Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercise on Pain, Functional Disability, and Quality of Life in Individuals with Non-specific Chronic Low Back Pain: A Two-Month Follow-up Study
Authors: Rabieezadeh Alireza , Mahdavinejad Reza , Sedehi Morteza , Adimi Meisam
Published: April 2024

Background
Low back pain is a common disorder and is considered one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, resulting in adverse health, social, and economic outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effects and durability of 8-week Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) exercises on pain, functional disability, and quality of life in individuals aged 30 to 50 years with non-specific chronic low back pain.
Methods
This research employed a pretest, posttest design with a follow-up period, in which 29 participants (16 in the control group and 13 in the exercise group) remained until the end of the study. Pain intensity, functional disability, and quality of life were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index, and the SF-36 questionnaire, respectively, before intervention, immediately after, and two months post-intervention. The control group continued their routine daily activities, while the exercise group performed DNS exercises three times a week for 8 weeks. Data was analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA (P ≤ 0.05).
Results
The results showed improvements in pain (p < 0.001), functional disability (p = 0.02), and quality of life (p = 0.01) in the exercise group at the posttest compared to the pretest. However, the durability of the exercise effects at the follow-up assessment was not sustainable compared to the posttest and pretest (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
An 8-week period of DNS exercises can improve pain, functional disability, and quality of life in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain. However, a 2-month period of detraining can reduce the positive outcomes of these exercises.
Molecular, hierarchical and acoustical cues promote mesenchymal stromal cell differentiation toward tympanic membrane regeneration
Authors: Anand Shivesh , Runzer Claudia Del Toro , Balmayor Elizabeth Rosado , Griensven Martijn van , Moroni Lorenzo , Mota Carlos
Published: April 2024

Stem cell therapies using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have recently emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of tympanic membrane (TM) injuries. However, the role of essential biochemical, biophysical, and biomechanical signals in guiding the MSC differentiation for TM applications remains unexplored. Therefore, this study aims to address the existing knowledge gap by applying three distinct stimulation mechanisms – molecular, hierarchical, and acoustical – on biofabricated TM scaffolds. In this regard, relevant bioactive molecules were identified to trigger the desired expression of TM-specific genes on electrospun meshes. Subsequently, additive-manufactured filaments were deposited on the nanofibrous meshes to investigate the influence of 3D hierarchy. Finally, acoustical stimulation was applied using a custom-built bioreactor setup, partially mimicking the native tissue niche. The acousto-vibrational characterization of the stimulated samples revealed an amplified oscillatory behavior at specific frequencies, which was shown to positively impact the TM wound healing mechanism. In summary, this work demonstrates that a synergistic integration of suitable bioactive agents, 3D hierarchical structures, and acoustical vibrations promotes the formation of an aligned extracellular matrix relevant for TM regeneration.
Mapping the Trend of Digital Transformation in Omni-Channel Retailing: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Nadia Hasbullah Nornajihah , Riyard Kiflee Ag Kaifah , Anwar Saiful , K.K. Ramachandran
Published: April 2024

The omnichannel, a new concept in retailing, has surpassed the genre of electronic business (e-commerce) and has significantly influenced consumer thoughts and decisions. This approach refers to a retailing approach that has transformed the way customers shop, seamlessly transitioning between online and offline platforms due to the increased usage of smartphones and tablets. Presently, retailers are focusing on delivering excellent service experiences. However, despite being a prominent topic in the retail sector, bibliometric and systematic reviews exploring omni-channels are scarce. To contribute to further research collaboration and expand knowledge in this subject area, a bibliometric study was conducted to examine omni-channel research trends, including publication outputs, notable journals, top-performing authors, leading countries, and author keywords. A total of 773 articles were acquired from Scopus databases from 2013 to March 2023. The findings revealed a continuous increase in the number of omni-channel publications each year, indicating its growing relevance in the retail industry. Among the 61 countries analysed, Chile had the highest number of active paper publications, followed by Sweden and Spain. The systematic analysis conducted using VOSviewer identified 2103 keywords. This research explores focal points in research, evaluates trends in evolution, visualizes collaboration networks, and identifies a prominent topic in the field of omni-channel research. Cluster analysis revealed prominent topics of interest within the omni-channel context, including the grocery, fashion, luxury, and tourism domains. As a result, this study provides an information and implementation direction for the development of omni-channel retailing.