bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of coronal plane acetabular correction on joint contact pressure in Periacetabular osteotomy: a finite-element analysis
Authors: Kitamura Kenji , Fujii Masanori , Iwamoto Miho , Ikemura Satoshi , Hamai Satoshi , Motomura Goro , Nakashima Yasuharu
Published: January 2022

Background

The ideal acetabular position for optimizing hip joint biomechanics in periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) remains unclear. We aimed to determine the relationship between acetabular correction in the coronal plane and joint contact pressure (CP) and identify morphological factors associated with residual abnormal CP after correction.

Methods

Using CT images from 44 patients with hip dysplasia, we performed three patterns of virtual PAOs on patient-specific 3D hip models; the acetabulum was rotated laterally to the lateral center-edge angles (LCEA) of 30°, 35°, and 40°. Finite-element analysis was used to calculate the CP of the acetabular cartilage during a single-leg stance.

Results

Coronal correction to the LCEA of 30° decreased the median maximum CP 0.5-fold compared to preoperatively (p <  0.001). Additional correction to the LCEA of 40° further decreased CP in 15 hips (34%) but conversely increased CP in 29 hips (66%). The increase in CP was associated with greater preoperative extrusion index (p = 0.030) and roundness index (p = 0.038). Overall, virtual PAO failed to normalize CP in 11 hips (25%), and a small anterior wall index (p = 0.049) and a large roundness index (p = 0.003) were associated with residual abnormal CP.

Conclusions

The degree of acetabular correction in the coronal plane where CP is minimized varied among patients. Coronal plane correction alone failed to normalize CP in 25% of patients in this study. In patients with an anterior acetabular deficiency (anterior wall index < 0.21) and an aspherical femoral head (roundness index > 53.2%), coronal plane correction alone may not normalize CP. Further studies are needed to clarify the effectiveness of multiplanar correction, including in the sagittal and axial planes, in optimizing the hip joint’s contact mechanics.
Biomechanical analysis of two medial buttress plate fixation methods to treat Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures
Authors: Liu Jichao , Li Zhengwei , Ding Jie , Huang Bingzhe , Piao Chengdong
Published: January 2022

Background

Femoral neck fractures in young people are usually Pauwels Type III fractures. The common treatment method are multiple parallel cannulated screws or dynamic hip screw sliding compression fixation. Due to the huge shear stress, the rate of complications such as femoral head necrosis and nonunion is still high after treatment. The aim of our study was to compare the stabilities of two fixation methods in fixating pauwels type III femoral neck fractures.

Methods

All biomimetic fracture samples are fixed with three cannulated screws combined with a medial buttress plate. There were two fixation groups for the buttress plate and proximal fracture fragment: Group A, long screw (40 mm); Group B, short screw (6 mm). Samples were subjected to electrical strain measurement under a load of 500 N, axial stiffness was measured, and then the samples were axially loaded until failure. More than 5 mm of displacement or synthetic bone fracture was considered as construct failure.

Results

There were no significant differences in failure load (P = 0.669), stiffness (P = 0.842), or strain distribution (P > 0.05) between the two groups.

Conclusions

Unicortical short screws can provide the same stability as long screws for Pauwels Type III Femoral Neck Fractures.
A study on the processing technology for Rhizoma Coptidis
Authors: Wang Yunhong , Qin Weihan , Yang Yujie , Bai Hui , Wang Jirui , Zhang Xiaomei , Guo Yanlei , Hua Lei , Yang Yong
Published: January 2022

Background

The present study intends to optimize the processing technology for the wine-processing of Rhizoma Coptidis, using alkaloids as indicators.

Method

In the present study, the Box–Behnken design method was adopted to optimize the processing technology for Rhizoma Coptidis, using the alkaloid component quantities as the index. 100 g of Rhizoma Coptidis slices and 12.5 g of Rhizoma Coptidis wine were used. After full mixing, box-Behnken design method was used to optimize the processing time, processing temperature and processing time of coptis chinensis by taking alkaloid content as index. After mixing well, these components were fried in a container at 125 °C for 6 min and exhibited good parallelism.

Results

The content of alkaloids in coptis chinensis was the highest after roasting at 125 °C for 6 min. The characteristic components were berberine hydrochloride, and the relative content was about 15.96%. And showed good parallelism. The effective components of Rhizoma Coptidis were primarily alkaloids.

Conclusion

The optimized processing technology for Rhizoma Coptidis is good.
Prevalence of asymptomatic hyperuricemia and its association with prediabetes, dyslipidemia and subclinical inflammation markers among young healthy adults in Qatar
Authors: Al Shanableh Yasemin , Hussein Yehia Y. , Saidwali Abdul Haseeb , Al-Mohannadi Maryam , Aljalham Budoor , Nurulhoque Hamnah , Robelah Fahad , Al-mansoori Areej , Zughaier Susu M.
Published: January 2022

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of asymptomatic hyperuricemia in Qatar and to examine its association with changes in markers of dyslipidemia, prediabetes and subclinical inflammation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of young adult participants aged 18 - 40 years old devoid of comorbidities collected between 2012 and 2017. Exposure was defined as uric acid level, and outcomes were defined as levels of different blood markers. De-identified data were collected from Qatar Biobank. T-tests, correlation tests and multiple linear regression were all used to investigate the effects of hyperuricemia on blood markers. Statistical analyses were conducted using STATA 16.

Results

The prevalence of asymptomatic hyperuricemia is 21.2% among young adults in Qatar. Differences between hyperuricemic and normouricemic groups were observed using multiple linear regression analysis and found to be statistically and clinically significant after adjusting for age, gender, BMI, smoking and exercise. Significant associations were found between uric acid level and HDL-c p = 0.019 (correlation coefficient -0.07 (95% CI [-0.14, -0.01]); c-peptide p = 0.018 (correlation coefficient 0.38 (95% CI [0.06, 0.69]) and monocyte to HDL ratio (MHR) p = 0.026 (correlation coefficient 0.47 (95% CI [0.06, 0.89]).

Conclusions

Asymptomatic hyperuricemia is prevalent among young adults and associated with markers of prediabetes, dyslipidemia, and subclinical inflammation.
The mediating role of motivated strategies in the relationship between formative classroom assessment and academic well-being in medical students: a path analysis
Authors: Yousefi Afrashteh Majid , Rezaei Shamsi
Published: January 2022

Background

The support of students' academic well-being is one of the main agendas of medical education. For medical students, well-being can help prevent burnout and provides students with grounds for their future healthcare setting. The aim of this study was to examine the mediating role of motivated strategies for learning in the relationship between formative assessment and academic well-being.

Method

The present cross-sectional study was performed on 391 undergraduate students of medical sciences selected by a convenient sampling method. The measuring instruments used in this study included motivated strategies for learning questionnaire (Pintrich and De Groot), classroom assessment approaches questionnaire (Yousefi Afrashteh et al.) and Academic well-being Questionnaire (Pietarinen et al.). In order to analyze the data, SPSS-26 software was used for descriptive statistics and correlation matrix, and LISREL-10.20 software was used to do path analysis and determine the relationships between variables within the model.

Results

Findings showed that formative assessment is a significant resource in shaping subscale of motivated strategies for learning (self-efficacy, intrinsic value, test anxiety, cognitive strategies and self-regulation). Moreover, the results demonstrated that the self-regulated learning strategies is a crucial determinant of academic well-being and is a mediator between formative assessment and academic well-being.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the important value and necessity of formative assessment in medical science classes which can indirectly lead to improve students’ academic well-being.
What underlies the observed hospital volume-outcome relationship?
Authors: Huguet Marius , Joutard Xavier , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Perrier Lionel
Published: January 2022

Background

Studies of the hospital volume-outcome relationship have highlighted that a greater volume activity improves patient outcomes. While this finding has been known for years, most studies to date have failed to delve into what underlies this relationship.

Objective

This study aimed to shed light on the basis of the hospital volume effect on patient outcomes by comparing treatment modalities for epithelial ovarian carcinoma patients.

Data

An exhaustive dataset of 355 patients in first-line treatment for Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma (EOC) in 2012 in three regions of France was used. These regions account for 15% of the metropolitan French population.

Methods

In the presence of endogeneity induced by a reverse causality between hospital volume and patient outcomes, we used an instrumental variable approach. Hospital volume of activity was instrumented by the distance from patients’ homes to their hospital, the population density, and the median net income of patient municipalities.

Results

Based on our parameter estimates, we found that the rate of complete tumor resection would increase by 15.5 percentage points with centralized care, and by 8.3 percentage points if treatment decisions were coordinated by high-volume centers compared to decentralized care.

Conclusion

As volume alone is an imperfect correlate of quality, policy-makers need to know what volume is a proxy for in order to devise volume-based policies.
The deployment of balanced scorecard in health care organizations: is it beneficial? A systematic review
Authors: Amer Faten , Hammoud Sahar , Khatatbeh Haitham , Lohner Szimonetta , Boncz Imre , Endrei Dóra
Published: January 2022

Background

Balanced Scorecard (BSC) has been implemented for three decades to evaluate and improve the performance of organizations. To the best of the researchers’ knowledge, no previous systematic review has performed a comprehensive and rigorous methodological approach to figure out the impact of BSC implementation in Health Care Organizations (HCO).

Aims

The current work was intended to assess the impact of implementing the BSC on Health Care Workers’ (HCW) satisfaction, patient satisfaction, and financial performance.

Methods

The authors prepared the present systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines. Further, the authors customized the search strategy for PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Google Scholar databases, and Google’s search engine. The obtained studies were screened to isolate those measuring scores related to HCW satisfaction, patient satisfaction, and financial performance. The Risk of Bias (RoB) in the non-Randomized Intervention Studies (ROBINS-I) tool was used to assess the quality of observational and quasi-experimental studies. On the other hand, for the Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), the Cochrane (RoB 2) tool was used.

Results

Out of 4031 studies, the researchers included 20 studies that measured the impact of BSC on one or more of the three entities (HCW satisfaction, patient satisfaction, and financial performance). Throughout these 20 studies, it was found that 17 studies measured the impact of the BSC on patient satisfaction, seven studies measured the impact on HCW satisfaction, and 12 studies measured the impact on financial performance.

Conclusion

This systematic review provides managers and policymakers with evidence to support utilizing BSC in the health care sector. BSC implementation demonstrated positive outcomes for patient satisfaction and the financial performance of HCOs. However, only a mild impact was demonstrated for effects related to HCW satisfaction. However, it is worth noting that many of the studies reflected a high RoB, which may have affected the impacts on the three primary outcomes measured. As such, this systematic review reflects the necessity for further focus on this area in the future. Moreover, future research is encouraged to measure the real and current impact of implementing BSC in HCO during the pandemic since we did not find any.
Differential proteomic analysis demonstrates follicle fluid participate immune reaction and protein translation in yak
Authors: Pei Jie , Song Rende , Bao Pengjia , Yin Mancai , Li Jiye , Zhang Guomo , Wu Fude , Luo Zhengjie , Wu Xiaoyun , Song Weiru , Ba Yang , Xiong Lin , Liang Chunnian , Guo Xian , Yan Ping
Published: January 2022

Background

Ovarian follicle fluid (FF) as a microenvironment surrounding oocyte plays critical roles in physio-biochemical processes of follicle development and oocyte maturation. It is hypothesized that proteins in yak FF participate in the physio-biochemical pathways. The primary aims of this study were to find differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between mature and immature FF, and to elucidating functions of the mature and immature FF in yak.

Results

The mature and immature FF samples were obtained from three healthy yaks that were nonpregnant, aged from four to five years, and free from any anatomical reproductive disorders. The FF samples were subjected to mass spectrometry with the isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ). The FF samples went through correlation analysis, principle component analysis, and expression pattern analysis based on quantification of the identified proteins. Four hundred sixty-three DEPs between mature and immature FF were identified. The DEPs between the mature and immature FF samples underwent gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. The DEPs highly expressed in the mature FF mainly took parts in the complement and coagulation cascades, defense response, acute-phase response, response to other organism pathways to avoid invasion of exogenous microorganisms. The complement activation pathway contains eight DEPs, namely C2, C5, C6, C7, C9, C4BPA, CFH, and MBL2. The three DEPs, CATHL4, CHGA, and PGLYRP1, take parts in defense response pathway to prevent invasion of exogenetic microorganism. The coagulation cascades pathway involves many coagulation factors, such as F7, F13A1, FGA, FGB, FGG, KLKB1, KNG1, MASP1, SERPINA1, and SERPIND1. While the DEPs highly expressed in the immature FF participated in protein translation, peptide biosynthetic process, DNA conformation change, and DNA geometric change pathways to facilitate follicle development. The translation pathway contains many ribosomal proteins, such as RPL3, RPL5, RPS3, RPS6, and other translation factors, such as EIF3J, EIF4G2, ETF1, MOV10, and NARS. The DNA conformation change and DNA geometric change involve nine DEPs, DDX1, G3BP1, HMGB1, HMGB2, HMGB3, MCM3, MCM5, MCM6, and RUVBL2. Furthermore, the expressed levels of the main DEPs, C2 and SERPIND1, were confirmed by western blot.

Conclusions

The differential proteomics revealed the up-regulated DEPs in mature FF take parts in immunoreaction to prevent invasion of microorganisms and the up-regulated DEPs in immature FF participate in protein synthesis, which may improve our knowledge of the follicular microenvironment and its biological roles for reproductive processes in yak. The DEPs, C2 and SERPIND1, can be considered as protein markers for mature yak follicle.
Larval habitats, species composition and distribution of malaria vectors in regions with autochthonous and imported malaria in Roraima state, Brazil
Authors: de Almeida Nathália Coelho Vargas , Louzada Jaime , Neves Maycon Sebastião Alberto Santos , Carvalho Thiago M. , Castro-Alves Júlio , Silva-do-Nascimento Teresa Fernandes , Escalante Ananias A. , Oliveira-Ferreira Joseli
Published: January 2022

Background

Malaria control requires local action. Assessing the vector diversity and abundance provides information on the local malariogenic potential or risk of transmission. This study aimed to determine theAnophelesspecies composition, habitats, seasonal occurrence, and distribution in areas with autochthonous and imported malaria cases in Roraima State.

Methods

A longitudinal study was conducted from January 2017 to October 2018, sampling larvae and adult mosquitoes in three municipalities of Roraima State: Boa Vista, Pacaraima and São João da Baliza. These areas have different risks of malaria importation. Four to six mosquito larval habitats were selected for larval sampling at each municipality, along with two additional sites for adult mosquito collection. All larval habitats were surveyed every two months using a standardized larval sampling methodology and MosqTent for adult mosquitoes.

Results

A total of 544Anopheleslarvae and 1488 adult mosquitoes were collected from the three municipalities studied. Although the species abundance differed between municipalities, the larvae ofAnopheles albitarsis s.l.,Anopheles nuneztovari s.l.andAnopheles triannulatus s.l.were collected from all larval habitats studied whileAnopheles darlingiwere collected only from Boa Vista and São João da Baliza. Adults of 11 species of the genusAnopheleswere collected, and the predominant species in Boa Vista wasAn. albitarsis(88.2%) followed byAn. darlingi(6.9%), while in São João da Baliza,An. darlingi(85.6%) was the most predominant species followed byAn. albitarsis s.l.(9.2%). In contrast, the most abundant species in Pacaraima wasAnopheles braziliensis(62%), followed byAnopheles peryassui(18%). Overall, the majority of anophelines exhibited greater extradomicile than peridomicile-biting preference.Anopheles darlingiwas the only species found indoors. Variability in biting times was observed among species and municipalities.

Conclusion

This study revealed the composition of anopheline species and habitats in Boa Vista, Pacaraima and São João da Baliza. The species sampled differed in their behaviour with onlyAn. darlingibeing found indoors.Anopheles darlingiappeared to be the most important vector in São João da Baliza, an area of autochthonous malaria, andAn. albitarsis s.l.andAn. braziliensisin areas of low transmission, although there were increasing reports of imported malaria. Understanding the diversity of vector species and their ecology is essential for designing effective vector control strategies for these municipalities.
The influence of fasting on energy and nutrient intake and their corresponding food sources among 6-23 months old children in rural communities with high burden of stunting from Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Haileselassie Mekonnen , Redae Getachew , Berhe Gebretsadik , Henry Carol J. , Nickerson Michael T. , Mulugeta Afework
Published: January 2022

Background

Limited studies in Ethiopia showed that infants and young children are at high risk of inadequate intake of energy and nutrients. However, inclusive assessment of both nutrient intakes and their food sources are lacking. We aimed at assessing energy and nutrient intakes and their food sources during religious fasting and non-fasting periods among 6–23 months old children in Northern Ethiopia.

Methods

Data for this longitudinal study were collected following repeated multiple-pass 24-h dietary recall technique through face-to-face interviews with primary caregivers. Using a two-stage systematic random sampling method, a total of 570 and 551 children participated respectively in the lent fasting and non-fasting periods. Energy and nutrient intakes were estimated and compared with WHO daily requirements. All foods that a child consumed on the day preceding the date of data collection were recorded and processed with database software. Chi-square and t- tests were used to analyze the data. Non-normally distributed data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test and statistical significance was set atp < 0.05.

Results

The overall prevalence of child stunting was 41.4%. Almost all of children (99.6%) consumed grains, roots, and tubers. The inadequacy prevalence of energy, protein and eight selected micronutrients (calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin C) intake were 96.2, 44.9, and 95.5%, respectively. Calcium and zinc were the highest (100%) deficits observed across all age groups. Although consumption of animal source foods (ASFs) was very low (dairy 10.1%, meat 2.3% and eggs 23.6%), there was significantly higher consumption of meat and eggs during the non-fasting compared to fasting period (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Inadequate intake of energy and nutrients was common among 6–23 months old children. Cereals were found to be the main sources of many of the nutrients. The consumption of ASFs among 6–23-month-old children was low which was also affected by the religious fasting period. Hence, strengthening social and behavior change communication, supporting rural households to raise poultry and small ruminants is recommended.
Cancer exosomes and natural killer cells dysfunction: biological roles, clinical significance and implications for immunotherapy
Authors: Hosseini Reza , Sarvnaz Hamzeh , Arabpour Maedeh , Ramshe Samira Molaei , Asef-Kabiri Leila , Yousefi Hassan , Akbari Mohammad Esmaeil , Eskandari Nahid
Published: January 2022

Tumor-derived exosomes (TDEs) play pivotal roles in several aspects of cancer biology. It is now evident that TDEs also favor tumor growth by negatively affecting anti-tumor immunity. As important sentinels of immune surveillance system, natural killer (NK) cells can recognize malignant cells very early and counteract the tumor development and metastasis without a need for additional activation. Based on this rationale, adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded NK cells/NK cell lines, such as NK-92 cells, has attracted great attention and is widely studied as a promising immunotherapy for cancer treatment. However, by exploiting various strategies, including secretion of exosomes, cancer cells are able to subvert NK cell responses. This paper reviews the roles of TDEs in cancer-induced NK cells impairments with mechanistic insights. The clinical significance and potential approaches to nullify the effects of TDEs on NK cells in cancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
(Wh)olistic (E)ndocannabinoidome-Microbiome-Axis Modulation through (N)utrition (WHEN) to Curb Obesity and Related Disorders
Authors: Sihag Jyoti , Di Marzo Vincenzo
Published: January 2022

The discovery of the endocannabinoidome (eCBome) is evolving gradually with yet to be elucidated functional lipid mediators and receptors. The diet modulates these bioactive lipids and the gut microbiome, both working in an entwined alliance. Mounting evidence suggests that, in different ways and with a certain specialisation, lipid signalling mediators such as N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), 2-monoacylglycerols (2-MAGs), and N-acyl-amino acids (NAAs), along with endocannabinoids (eCBs), can modulate physiological mechanisms underpinning appetite, food intake, macronutrient metabolism, pain sensation, blood pressure, mood, cognition, and immunity. This knowledge has been primarily utilised in pharmacology and medicine to develop many drugs targeting the fine and specific molecular pathways orchestrating eCB and eCBome activity. Conversely, the contribution of dietary NAEs, 2-MAGs and eCBs to the biological functions of these molecules has been little studied. In this review, we discuss the importance of (Wh) olistic (E)ndocannabinoidome-Microbiome-Axis Modulation through (N) utrition (WHEN), in the management of obesity and related disorders.
Value of variation of end-tidal carbon dioxide for predicting fluid responsiveness during the passive leg raising test in patients with mechanical ventilation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Haijun , Wu Chenxia , Shen Qinkang , Fang Yixin , Xu Hua
Published: January 2022

Background

The ability of end-tidal carbon dioxide (ΔEtCO2) for predicting fluid responsiveness has been extensively studied with conflicting results. This meta-analysis aimed to explore the value of ΔEtCO2 for predicting fluid responsiveness during the passive leg raising (PLR) test in patients with mechanical ventilation.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched up to November 2021. The diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated. The summary receiver operating characteristic curve was estimated, and the area under the curve (AUROC) was calculated.Qtest andI2statistics were used for study heterogeneity and publication bias was assessed by Deeks’ funnel plot asymmetry test. We performed meta-regression analysis for heterogeneity exploration and sensitivity analysis for the publication bias.

Results

Overall, six studies including 298 patients were included in this review, of whom 149 (50%) were fluid responsive. The cutoff values of ΔEtCO2 in four studies was 5%, one was 5.8% and the other one was an absolute increase 2 mmHg. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed with an overallQ = 4.098,I2 = 51%, andP = 0.064. The pooled sensitivity and specificity for the overall population were 0.79 (95% CI 0.72–0.85) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.77–0.96), respectively. The DOR was 35 (95% CI 12–107). The pooled AUROC was 0.81 (95% CI 0.77–0.84). On meta-regression analysis, the number of patients was sources of heterogeneity. The sensitivity analysis showed that the pooled DOR ranged from 21 to 140 and the pooled AUC ranged from 0.92 to 0.96 when one study was omitted.

Conclusions

Though the limited number of studies included and study heterogeneity, our meta-analysis confirmed that the ΔEtCO2 performed moderately in predicting fluid responsiveness during the PLR test in patients with mechanical ventilation.
The frequencies of peripheral blood CD5+CD19+ B cells, CD3−CD16+CD56+ NK, and CD3+CD56+ NKT cells and serum interleukin-10 in patients with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Khani Leila , Jazayeri Mir Hadi , Nedaeinia Reza , Bozorgmehr Mahmood , Nabavi Seyed Masood , Ferns Gordon A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica syndrome disease (NMOSD) are inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. The pathogenesis and treatments for these two conditions are very different. Natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells are immune cells with an important role in shaping the immune response. B cells are involved in antigen presentation as well as antibody and cytokine production. There is conflicting evidence of the roles of NK, NKT, and B cells in the two conditions. We aimed to compare the frequency of CD3−CD16+CD56+NK, CD3+CD56+NKT, and CD5+CD19+B cells in the peripheral blood and serum Interleukin-10 (IL-10) in patients with MS and NMOSD.

Methods

CD19+CD5+B, CD3−CD16+CD56+NK, and CD3+CD56+NKT cells were quantitated by flow cytometry in 15 individuals with Interferon-Beta (IFN-β) treated relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS), 15 untreated RRMS, and 15 NMOSD patients as well as 30 healthy controls (HC). Serum IL-10 was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The percentage of CD3−CD56+CD16+NK cells in the peripheral blood of IFN-treated MS (1.81 ± 0.87) was significantly lower than for untreated RRMS (4.74 ± 1.80), NMOSD (4.64 ± 1.26) and HC (5.83 ± 2.19) (p < 0.0001). There were also differences for the percentage of CD3−CD16+and CD3−CD56+cells (p < 0.001 and p < 0.0007; respectively). IFN-treated RRMS (2.89 ± 1.51) had the lowest proportion of CD3+CD56+among the study groups (p < 0.002). Untreated RRMS (5.56 ± 3.04) and NMOSD (5.47 ± 1.24) had higher levels of CD3+CD56+than the HC (3.16 ± 1.98). The mean percentage of CD19+CD5+B cells in the peripheral blood of untreated RRMS patients (1.32 ± 0.67) was higher compared to the patients with NMOSD (0.30 ± 0.20), HC (0.5 ± 0.22) and IFN-treated RRMS (0.81 ± 0.17) (p < 0.0001). Serum interleukin-10 was significantly higher in the IFN-treated RRMS (8.06 ± 5.39) and in HC (8.38 ± 2.84) compared to untreated RRMS (5.07 ± 1.44) and the patients with NMOSD (5.33 ± 2.56) (p < 0.003).

Conclusions

The lower proportion of CD3−CD56+CD16+NK and CD3+CD56+cells in peripheral blood of IFN-treated RRMS compared to other groups suggests the importance of immunomodulation in patients with RRMS disorder. Based on the differences in CD19+CD5+B cells and serum IL-10 between patients and HC, supplementary assessments could be of value in clarifying their roles in autoimmunity.
Comparative study on the validity of monitoring test indexes of healthy fitness cardiopulmonary track and field sensor
Authors: Bao Jing
Published: January 2022

With the continuous increase in social pressure and people’s higher urgency for physical health, the concept of healthy physical fitness has become more and more important and prominent. However, the research and standards for the validity of the health fitness monitoring test indicators have not been determined. In order to compare the validity of the health fitness test indicators, we adopt the cardiopulmonary track and field sensor technology to monitor the health fitness cardiopulmonary track and field sensor. A comparative study on the validity of test indicators, mainly to test the rationality of the cardiopulmonary endurance evaluation indicators of healthy physical fitness, and to carry out a new design of the concept of healthy physical fitness in track and field teaching, so that it is more inclined to improve the healthy physical fitness of athletes fitness. Research data shows that the average absolute value of the athlete’s maximum oxygen consumption is 2.51 L/min, the highest value is 3.96 L/min, and the lowest is 2.03 L/min. The average value of the absolute maximum oxygen consumption of girls is 1.79 L/min, the highest value is 2.89 L/min, and the minimum is 1.51 L/min. From these data, we can know that compared with traditional cardiopulmonary monitoring methods, the sensor monitoring studied in this paper has higher accuracy and wider application range. The peak cardiopulmonary power of athletes’ cardiopulmonary function detection using this method is closer to the actual value, while for the peak cardiopulmonary power detected by traditional methods, there is a big difference between the power and the actual value. For different athletes, the advantages of the algorithm in this paper are more obvious, indicating that the method in this paper has a higher detection accuracy for the cardiopulmonary function test of athletes during aerobic training.
Nurses’ eating habits in Lebanon during the economic and health crises: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nohra Rita Georges , Naim Elissa , Chaaban Taghrid , Rothan-Tondeur Monique
Published: January 2022

Background

Nurses face multiple stressors that can influence their lifestyle, thus affecting their health status. Scarce are the scientific data on the nutritional status of nurses, especially during health crises. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the eating habits of hospital nurses in the context of an exceptional economic situation in Lebanon.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a web-based questionnaire, targeting a non-random sampling of frontline nurses using the snowball technique. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were carried out. The population of the study included all registered nurses working in the Lebanese hospitals. A total of 533 nurses completed the questionnaire; 500 surveys were selected after excluding the ones presenting conditions that may affect their eating behavior.

Results

The majority of the respondents were women (78.6%) with a mean age of 33 years [18-60] [SD,7.44 years]. Most of them (57.6%) had a crowding index ≥1. The consumption of different food groups decreased during these crises. There was a significant correlation between stress and deterioration of healthy food consumption, which provides beneficial nutrients and minimizes potentially harmful elements, especially for meat (OR 2.388, CI 1.463 to 3.898, P < 0.001). The decrease in monthly income showed a real impact on the consumption of healthy food such as meat (OR 2.181, CI 1.504 to 3.161, P < 001), fruits (OR 1.930, CI 1.289 to 2.888, P = 0.001), and milk and dairy products (OR 1.544, CI 1.039 to 2.295, P = 0.031).

Conclusions

The pandemic and in particular the economic crisis has changed the consumption of healthy food among hospital nurses in Lebanon. Similar research and support may be extended to include other frontline health care workers.
The treatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) as a possible source of micro- and nano-plastics and bioplastics in agroecosystems: a review
Authors: Bandini Francesca , Taskin Eren , Bellotti Gabriele , Vaccari Filippo , Misci Chiara , Guerrieri Maria Chiara , Cocconcelli Pier Sandro , Puglisi Edoardo
Published: January 2022

Plastics fragmentation into smaller debris, namely, micro- and nano-plastics (MPs and NPs), is a matter of global concern because of their wide distribution in terrestrial and marine environments. The latest research has focused mainly on aquatic ecosystems, and fragmentation of bioplastics into micro- and nano-particles (MBPs and NBPs) is not considered. The distribution, concentration, fate and major source of MPs, NPS, MBPs and NBPs in agroecosystems still need to be understood. The use of composts and sewage sludge from the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) treatment plants as soil amendments is likely to represent a major input of these debris. The present review provides insights into the current evidence of pollution from micro- and nano-particles of both fossil- and bio-origin in the OFMSW treatment, and aims at evaluating if the recycling of organic waste and its application as a soil fertilizer outweigh the risk of pollution in terrestrial environments. Huge unpredictability exists due to the limited numbers of data on their quantification in each source of possible solution. Indeed, the major hurdles arise from the difficult to quantify the micro-, especially the nano-, particles and subsequently assess the concentrations in the environments, as well as bioaccumulation risks, and toxic effects on organisms.

Graphical Abstract
Temporal change in seismic wave attenuation using highly stable vibration sources
Authors: Tsuji Shuhei , Yamaoka Koshun , Ikuta Ryoya
Published: January 2022

We developed a method to detect attenuation changes during seismic wave propagation excited by precisely controlled artificial seismic sources, namely Accurately Controlled Routinely Operated Signal System (ACROSS), and applied it to monitor the temporal changes for in situ data collected by previous studies. Our method, together with the use of the ACROSS sources, is less susceptible to noise level changes, from which conventional methods such as envelope calculation suffer. The method utilizes the noise level that is independently estimated in the frequency domain and eliminates the influence of the noise from the observed signal. For performance testing, we applied this method to a dataset that was obtained in an experiment at Awaji Island, Japan, from 2000 to 2001. We detected a change in amplitude caused by rainfall, variation in atmospheric temperature, and coseismic ground motions. Among them, coseismic changes are of particular interest because there are limited studies on coseismic attenuation change, in contrast to many studies on coseismic velocity decrease. At the 2000 Western Tottori earthquake (MW = 6.6, epicenter distance of 165 km), a sudden decrease in amplitude of up to 5% was observed. The coseismic amplitude reduction and its anisotropic characteristics, which showed a larger reduction in the direction of the major axis of velocity decrease, were consistent with the opening of fluid-filled cracks, as proposed by previous studies. The $$\Delta {Q}^{-1}$$

Δ

Q

-
1

corresponding to the amplitude change gives similar values to those reported in previous studies using natural earthquakes.

Graphical Abstract
The Reliability of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation-Derived Corticomotor Inhibition as a Brain Health Evaluation Tool in Soccer Players
Authors: Di Virgilio Thomas G. , Ietswaart Magdalena , Selvamoorthy Ragul , Hunter Angus M.
Published: January 2022

Background

The suitability of corticomotor inhibition and corticospinal excitability to measure brain health outcomes and recovery of sport-related head impact (concussion and subconcussion) depends on good inter-day reliability, which is evaluated in this study. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) reliability in soccer players is assessed by comparing soccer players, for whom reliability on this measure may be reduced due to exposure to head impacts, to generally active individuals not engaged in contact sport.

Methods

TMS-derived corticomotor inhibition and corticospinal excitability were recorded from the rectus femoris muscle during two testing sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart in 19 soccer players (SOC—age 22 ± 3 years) and 20 generally active (CON—age 24 ± 4 years) healthy volunteers. Inter-day reliability between the two time points was quantified by using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC). Intra-group reliability and group differences on actual measurement values were also explored.

Results

Good inter-day reliability was evident for corticomotor inhibition (ICCSOC = 0.61; ICCCON = 0.70) and corticospinal excitability (ICCSOC = 0.59; ICCCON = 0.70) in both generally active individuals and soccer players routinely exposed to sport-related head impacts. Corticomotor inhibition showed lower coefficients of variation than excitability for both groups (InhibSOC = 15.2%; InhibCON = 9.7%; ExcitabSOC = 41.6%; ExcitabCON = 39.5%). No group differences between soccer players and generally active individuals were found on the corticomotor inhibition value (p > 0.05), but levels of corticospinal excitability were significantly lower in soccer players (45.1 ± 20.8 vs 85.4 ± 6.2%Mmax, p < 0.0001). Corticomotor inhibition also showed excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.87).

Conclusions

Corticomotor inhibition and corticospinal excitability are stable and maintain good degrees of reliability when assessed over different days in soccer players, despite their routine exposure to head impacts. However, based on intra-group reliability and group differences of the levels of excitability, we conclude that corticomotor inhibition is best suited for the evaluation of neuromuscular alterations associated with head impacts in contact sports.
Evaluation of an anti-stigma intervention for Mexican psychiatric trainees
Authors: Lagunes-Cordoba Emmeline , Alcala-Lozano Ruth , Lagunes-Cordoba Roberto , Fresan-Orellana Ana , Jarrett Manuela , Gonzalez-Olvera Jorge , Thornicroft Graham , Henderson Claire
Published: January 2022

Background

There is research evidence regarding the presence of stigmatising attitudes in psychiatrists towards people with mental illness, but a lack of studies and interventions focused on this issue in low and middle-income countries.

Aims

To assess the feasibility of implementing an anti-stigma intervention for Mexican psychiatric trainees, and its potential effects.

Methods

This study comprised a pre-post design with outcome measures compared between baseline and 3-month follow-up. Quantitative outcome measures were used to evaluate the potential effects of the intervention, whilst the process evaluation required the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data.

Results

Twenty-nine trainees (25% of those invited) participated in the intervention, of whom 18 also participated in the follow-up assessment. Outcome measures showed the intervention had moderately large effects on reducing stereotypes and the influence of other co-workers on trainees’ own attitudes. The main mechanisms of impact identified were recognition of negative attitudes in oneself and colleagues, self-reflection about the impact of stigma, one’s own negative attitudes and recognition of one’s ability to make change. Participants accepted and were satisfied with the intervention, which many considered should be part of their routine training. However, trainees’ work overload and lack of support from the host organisation were identified as barriers to implement the intervention.

Conclusions

A brief anti-stigma intervention for Mexican psychiatric trainees is feasible, potentially effective, well accepted and was considered necessary by participants. This study also suggests mechanisms of impact and mediators should be considered for developing further interventions, contributing to reducing the damaging effects that mental health-related stigma has on people’s lives.
In-silico characterization of phytochemicals identified from Vitex negundo (L) extract as potential therapy for Wnt-signaling proteins
Authors: Gouthami Kuruvalli , Veeraraghavan Vadamalai , Nagaraja Prashantha
Published: January 2022

Background

Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed disease in the world population and current chemotherapy has been used for targeting the cell proliferation and metastasizing ability of tumor cells. Potent chemotherapeutic drugs for colorectal cancer are capecitabine, fluorouracil, irinotecan, etc. which have toxic effects in normal tissues and adverse effects in multiple organs leading to major obstacles in clinical use. The aim of the study is the use of plant-derived compounds that improve the effectiveness of chemotherapeutics with lower and alleviate toxic side effects and reduce the risk of tumor progression.

Results

The current study is performed using Vitex negundo leaf which has been demonstrated to have positive effects against colorectal cancer. The use of computational approaches will help improve the identification and screening of lead molecules using AutoDock 4.2 and AutoDock Vina. Using computational approaches will help to improve lead identification and screening. Herein, we have retrieved six phytochemicals from published literature and investigated their inhibitory effect with Wnt-associated signaling proteins. Authentication of phytocompounds and Wnt-associated signaling proteins was done using AutoDock.4.2.

Conclusions

The results are screened based on the number of hydrogen bonds, binding energy, and interacting amino acids. The Isoorientin, luteolin, and Chrysophanol get the highest binding energy with target receptors. The binding energy is calculated with all target receptors from the range of − 6.0 to − 8.9 kcal/mol. The In-silico drug likeliness properties are predicted to be the best interacting compounds based on Lipinski Rule of 5 and ADMET analysis. Hence, we propose that Isoorientin, luteolin, and Chrysophanol are the potential inhibitors of Wnt signaling inhibitors, and preclinical studies are needed to confirm the promising therapeutic ability of colorectal cancer.
Prediction of the relationship of cesarean section scar niche and postmenstrual spotting: is there any relation?
Authors: Bandry Kirollos Wagdy , Abou-Taleb Hisham , Seifeldein Gehan S. , Taha Mohamad Gaber , Qenawy Omran Khodary
Published: January 2022

Background

Postmenstrual spotting has recently been related to a discontinuation of the myometrium at the site of a previous cesarean section called "CS scar niche". There was no consensus regarding the gold standard method for the assessment of the niche. Recently, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown promise in the evaluation of the niche. Our study aims to assess the role of MRI in the evaluation of the CS scar niche characters and its association with post-menstrual spotting.

Results

A total of 65 patients with CS niche were prospectively included in this study and subdivided into two groups, according to presence or absence of postmenstrual spotting (Group A; 34 patients with postmenstrual spotting and Group B; 31 patients without spotting). All patients were examined using a 1.5 T MRI unit. CS scar niche volume was significantly higher among women with post-menstrual spotting (0.57 ± 0.07 vs. 0.07 ± 0.05 (cm3); P < 0.001). Also, women with post-menstrual spotting have significantly higher scar length (9.38 ± 3.06 vs. 5.02 ± 2.10 (mm); P < 0.001), scar depth (6.95 ± 3.16 vs. 3.23 ± 0.99 (mm); P < 0.001), scar width (15.78 ± 3.94 vs. 9.87 ± 1.84 (mm); P < 0.001) in comparison to those without post-menstrual spotting.

Scar depth (> 7.4 mm) had 81% sensitivity and 97% specificity for prediction of post-menstrual spotting with overall accuracy was 88.7%. While scar width (> 12.8 mm) had 71% sensitivity and 97% specificity for prediction of post-menstrual spotting with overall accuracy was 83.3%. Scar volume (> 0.15 cm3) had 97% sensitivity and 100% specificity for prediction of post-menstrual spotting with overall accuracy was 98.4%.

Conclusion

MRI measures (CS scar volume, depth, and width) are predictors for postmenstrual spotting in patients with CS scar niche, and scar volume is the most powerful predictor.
The effect of therapeutic exercise and vegan diet on pain and quality of life in young female patients with chronic non-specific neck pain
Authors: Torlak Mustafa S. , Gonulalan Gulsum , Tufekci Osman , Nazli Merve S. , Atici Emine
Published: January 2022

Background and purpose

In recent years, dietary practices have begun to be used in painful conditions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a vegan diet and therapeutic exercise in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain.

Materials and methods

A total of 45 young female patients with chronic non-specific neck pain, aged 18–25 years, participated in the study. Body mass index and body fat percentage were measured with bioelectrical impedance analysis. Pain severity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale, quality of life with the short form-36 scale, kinesiophobia with the Tampa scale of kinesiophobia and neck disability with the Neck Disability Index.

Results

The pain severity reduced in the diet group and exercise group after treatment (p = 0.001). After treatment, Neck Disability Index score decreased in the diet group and exercise group (p = 0.001). Tampa scale of kinesiophobia score decreased in the diet group and exercise group (p = 0.001). The eight domains of the short form-36 scale score increased in the diet group and exercise group (p < 0.05). No difference was found in the body mass index and fat percentage in all groups before and after treatment (p˃ 0.05).

Conclusion

A vegan diet and therapeutic exercise are beneficial to patients with chronic non-specific neck pain in terms of pain severity and quality of life.