bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assistive devices use as coping strategy of frailty management: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Shiqi , Luo Di , Zou Hongyan , Liu Tong , Zhou Lu , Xiao Mingzhao 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background: Frailty has been described as the most problematic expression in the context of considerable aging progression. Moreover, frailty-associated disability severely affects individuals and the society. Evidence has suggested that assistive devices (ADs) usage can slow functional decline, improve dependency and well-being with aging. Considering there is a paucity of published evidence on elderly assistive aids for the management of frailty, the present study aimed to shed light on the potential mediating effect of assistive devices usage on the frailty through the relationship between frailty and disability, and provide a theoretical basis for a health behavior intervention for frailty.
Methods: Convenience sampling method was used to select 335 older adults aged over 60 years using the FRAIL scale and the Barthel index for Activities of Daily living (ADL). Pearson’s r correlations were used to examine the association between the frailty, disability and assistive devices use and structural equation modelling (SEM) was to test a hypothetical mediation model.
Results: Of the 335 sample aged 60 or older, the participants’ mean age was 70.8 years old (SD = 6.6), mean scores of frailty and ADL disability was 2.71 (SD = 1.3) and 50.39 (SD = 24.5), respectively. Merely 21.8% of the participants were using ADs. Pearson’s ranalsysi demonstrated that ADL disability and ADs use were significantly correlated with frailty. Lastly, ADs use mediated the relationship between frailty and disability.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates that ADs usage may potentially serve as a tool for frailty management by mediating the association between frailty and disability. However, at present, ADs usage rate is rather low at the context of amounting rates of frailty. Therefore, the routine assessment of frailty and prescription of elderly assistive products are crucial when designing and implementing health promotion programme for elderly persons.
ab initio determination of molecular geometry AND vibrational frequencies of benzotrifluoride
Authors: Kushwaha Anita , Prasad R. L. Prasad Ram Lakhan , Yadav R. A. Yadavc Ram Ajore 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Using Gaussian 05 Revision C.02 version of the quantum chemical program ab initio computations has been carried out to compute optimized geometry, harmonic vibrational frequencies along with intensities in IR and Raman spectra and atomic charges at rhf / 6–31 + g*, b3lyp / 6–31 + + g** and b3lyp / 6–311 + + g** levels. The optimized molecular structure is found to possess Cs point group symmetry with the plane of symmetry passing through the C atom, to which the CF3 group is attached, the centrally opposite C atom and the C atom of the CF3 group and perpendicular to the phenyl ring plane. One of the three F atoms of the CF3 group is found to be on one side of the ring plane and is situated on the plane of the symmetry while the other two F atoms are found to be on the other side of the ring plane placed symmetrically on either side of the symmetry plane. Vibrational assignments for the normal modes have been reviewed. To make vibrational assignments for the normal modes of vibration the Gauss View software was used. The CF3 group has the characteristic frequencies in the 340, 768, 1072, 1152 and 1318 cm− 1 which are due to the modes δs(CF3), νs(CF3), νas(CF3) (a’), νas(CF3) (a”) and ν(C–CF3) respectively. The torsional frequency of the CF3 group is found to be 16 cm− 1 which would lead to barrier height of ~ 0.5 kJ / mol for the torsional motion of the CF3 group.
Modified unilateral iliac screw fixation with partial reduction in the treatment of high-grade spondylolisthesis at L5/S1 in adult patients: introduction of key technique, report of clinical outcomes and analysis of spinopelvic parameters
Authors: Zhang Yao , Song Jipeng , Lu Yuzheng , Yi Meng , Lin Wancheng , Yao Mingtao , Luo Zhengning , Zhang Genai , Ding Lixiang 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Study design: Prospective non-randomized study.
Background: Management of high-grade spondylolisthesis (HGS) remains challenging. Spinopelvic fixation such as iliac screw (IS) wasdeveloped to deal with HGS. However concerns regarding constructs prominence and increased infection-related revision surgery have complicated it’s use. We aim to introduce the modified iliac screw (IS) technique in treating high-grade L5/S1 spondylolisthesis (HGS) and it’s clinical and radiological outcomes.
Methods: Patients with L5/S1 HGS who underwent modified IS fixation were enrolled. Pre- and postsurgical upright full and lumbar spine radiographs were obtained to analyze sagittal imbalance, spinopelvic parameters, pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL), slip percentage, slip angle (SA), lumbosacral angle (LSA) and fusion status. Visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI) were evaluated pre- and postoperatively for clinical outcomes assessment. Estimated blood loss, operating time, perioperative complications and revision surgery were documented.
Results: From Jan 2018 to March 2020, 32patients (15 males) with mean age of 58.66 ± 7.77 years were included. The mean follow-up period was 49 months. The mean operation duration was 171.67 ± 36.66 min. At the last follow-up: 1) the VAS and ODI score were significantly improved (p<0.05), 2) PI increased by an average of 4.3°, the slip percent, SA and LSA were significantly improved (p<0.05), 3) four patients (16.7%) with sagittal imbalance recovered a good sagittal alignment, PI-LL within ± 10° was observed in all patients. One patient experienced wound infection. One patient underwent a revision surgery due to pseudoarthrosis at L5/S1.
Conclusion The modified IS technique is safe and effective in treating L5/S1 HGS. Sparing use of offset connector could reduce hardware prominence, leading to lower wound infection rate and less revision surgery. The long-term clinical affection of increased PI value is unknown.
A mouse systems genetics approach reveals common and uncommon genetic modifiers of hepatic lysosomal enzyme activities and glycosphingolipids
Authors: Duran Anyelo , Priestman David , Heras Macarena Las , Rebolledo-Jaramillo Boris , Olguín Valeria , Calderon Juan , Zanlungo Silvana , Gutierrez Jaime , Platt Frances , klein Andres 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Identification of genetic modulators of lysosomal enzyme activities and glycosphingolipids (GSLs) may facilitate the development of therapeutics for diseases in which they participate, including Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs). To this end, we used a systems genetics approach: we measured 11 hepatic lysosomal enzymes and many of their natural substrates (GSLs), followed by modifier gene mapping by GWAS and transcriptomics associations in a panel of inbred strains. Unexpectedly, most GSLs showed no association between their levels and the enzyme activity that catabolizes them. Genomic mapping identified 30 shared predicted modifier genes between the enzymes and GSLs, which are clustered in three pathways and are associated with other diseases. Surprisingly, they are regulated by ten common transcription factors, and their majority by miRNA-340p. In conclusion, we have identified novel regulators of GSL metabolism, which may serve as therapeutic targets for LSDs and may suggest the involvement of GSL metabolism in other pathologies.
The acceptability of evidence-informed guidance for parents in talking to their children about weight
Authors: Baber Fran , Gillison Fiona , Grey Elisabeth 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background: Many parents express concern about the impact of talking to children about weight on their self-esteem and wellbeing. The aim of this study was to explore the perceived relevance, utility and acceptability of new guidance for parents on talking to children about weight, developed to apply theory, evidence and expert advice.
Methods: For this qualitative study, parents and public health practitioners (PHPs) were recruited from ten local authorities through the National Child Measurement Programme in summer 2021. Participants were sent a copy of the guidance document and took part in an interview approximately one week later. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and explored using thematic analysis.
Results: 12 parents and 15 PHPs took part, and were similar in their responses reporting the guidance to be acceptable, relevant and helpful. Theme 1 explored how the guidance reduced perceptions of stigma and blame through the perspective and tone that was adopted. Theme 2 explored how the guidance could provide reassurance and increase confidence as a result of case study examples, and specific tips and advice. Theme 3 explored the extent to which participants perceived the advice to be realistic and how it could fit with existing PHP practice. Suggestions for improvement included adapting for relevance for lower income families and providing separate advice for parents of older and younger children.
Conclusions: The guidance was perceived to be relevant and needed; it showed potential to reduce parents’ negative affect and concerns, and improve confidence around talking to children about weight.
Prediction of 25-hydroxy vitamin D status by serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) value
Authors: Ranathunga I , Naveenkumar JP , Sumanatilleke  , Somasundaram NP 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background and Objectives
The low vitamin D status in an individual leads to a compensatory increase in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) level giving rise to secondary hyperparathyroidism. PTH action on the bone to reabsorb more calcium from the bone lead to elevation of bone alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the serum. Nevertheless, population screening for vitamin D deficiency in asymptomatic individuals is currently not recommended. ALP measurement as a screening test to detect vitamin D deficiency is a relatively inexpensive test that can be performed easily. We have studied the relationship between biochemical parameters to the vitamin D status of patients attending the NHSL.
Methods
A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted from March/ 2019 to March/ 2020 at the Endocrinology Unit of the NHSL. Consecutive sampling was done recruiting all patients who have had vitamin D assessment as part of the routine medical care. Interviewer administered questionnaire was used collect data. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the effects of vitamin D status on various blood parameters including serum total calcium, serum phosphate, ALP and PTH level. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the optimal ALP level to predict vitamin D deficiency.
Results
153 subjects who meets the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited in to the study over a period of one year. Out of the study population, majority were females (85.6%). The population mean age was 52.1 (SD ± 14.38) years and ranged from 18-89 years. Out of the whole population 58.8% had vitamin D deficiency while 31.4 % suffered from vitamin D insufficiency. Only 9.8% had normal vitamin D levels. ALP level was significantly related to vitamin D deficiency (p<0.05). At ALP cutoff value of 72.5U/L the vitamin D deficiency could be predicted with 76% sensitivity and 80% specificity. ALP cutoff 43U/L predicts vitamin D deficiency at a 100% sensitivity and 20% specificity.
Conclusions
The population screening for vitamin D deficiency is not a cost effective intervention. A more cheaper and feasible ALP assessment at a cutoff value of 72.5 U/L can predict vitamin D deficiency at a significantly higher specificity and sensitivity.
Development and Validation of a CT Radiomics and Clinical Feature Model to Predict Omental Metastases for Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wu Ahao , Wu Changlei , Zeng Qingwen , Cao Yi , Shu Xufeng , Luo Lianghua , Feng Zongfeng , Tu Yi , Jie Zhigang , Zhu Yanyan , Zhou Fuqing , Huang Ya , Li Zhengrong 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Objectives We employed radiomics and clinical features to develop and validate a preoperative prediction modelto estimate the metastases status of locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC).
Materials and methods A total of 356 patients (training cohort, n = 250; test cohort, n = 106) with LAGC who were confirmed T3/T4 stage by postoperative pathology were continuously collected retrospectively, including clinical data and preoperative arterial phase computed tomography images (APCT). Dedicated radiomics prototype software was used to segment the lesions and extract features from the preoperative APCT images. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to select the extracted radiomics features, and a radiomics score model was constructed. Finally, a prediction model of omental metastases status and a nomogram were constructed combining the radiomics scores and selected clinical features. An area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was used to validate the capability of the prediction model and nomogram in the training cohort. Calibration curves and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the prediction model and nomogram. The prediction model was internally validated by the test cohort. In addition, 104 patients from another hospital's clinical and imaging data were gathered for external validation.
Results In the training cohort, the combined prediction (CP) model (AUC=0.871, 95% CI 0.798-0.945) of the radiomics scores combined with the clinical features, compared with clinical features prediction (CFP) model (AUC=0.795, 95% CI 0.710-0.879) and radiomics scores prediction (RSP) model (AUC=0.805, 95% CI 0.730-0.879), had the better predictive ability. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test of the CP model showed that the prediction model did not deviate from the perfect fitting (p=0.893). In the DCA, the clinical net benefit of the CP model was higher than that of the CFP model and RSP model. In the test and validation cohorts, the AUC values of the CP model were 0.836 (95%CI 0.726-0.945) and 0.779 (95%CI 0.634-0.923), respectively.
Conclusions The preoperative APCT-based clinical-radiomics nomogram showed good performance in predicting omental metastases status in LAGC, which may contribute to clinical decision-making.
National Electrical Energy Supply – Foundations of a Future System (I)
Authors: Benthaus Manfred , Gosper Lachlan 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The following article details the first step towards a future national electrical energy supply system. The focal points of the analysis and the synthesis of the new system are the end-user and their supply of sustainable electrical energy. Building upon the first step, a second step presents suitable organisational structures for the new system.
Electrical energy, as a desired user product, is not a natural product; it must be anthropogenically produced. Numerous variables with technical, social, and economic origins influence electrical energy supply, generating a high level of analytical complexity. The guiding principles in this article describe neither means of saving energy nor any technological system, but rather exclusively describe the user requirements in the context of the supply of electrical energy. They are based on an equally valued trinity of energy supply, national economic integrity, and environment.
Self-sustaining electrical energy cells accessing ubiquitous and cost-free primary energy form the underlying structural elements. Combined, these elements realise a comprehensive and sustainable electrical energy supply system. Instrumental for achieving system goals is a new form of regulation. The current regulation primarily covers the energy transport networks, technically designed as large-scale power grids. The new regulatory system focuses on the supply of useful electrical energy according to the needs of the user. Derived from the formulated user requirements is a transition process, whose key milestones are the integration of current energy generating facilities into regulation, realisation of national electrical autonomy, reduction of risks to the national economy, establishment of climate-neutral primary energy conversion, and user-defined design of the supply of electrical energy.
Infection-Induced Extracellular Vesicles Evoke Neuronal Transcriptional and Epigenetic Changes
Authors: Tedford Ellen , Badya Norhidayah Binti , Laing Conor , Asaoka Nozomi , Kaneko Shuji , Filippi Beatrice Maria , McConkey Glenn Alan 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Infection with the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii induces changes in neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, and behavior, yet it remains elusive how these changes come about. In this study we investigated how norepinephrine levels are altered by infection. TINEV (Toxoplasma-induced neuronal extracellular vesicles) isolated from infected noradrenergic cells down-regulated dopamine ß-hydroxylase (DBH) gene expression in human and rodent cells. Here we report that intracerebral injection of TINEVs into the brain is sufficient to induce DBH down-regulation and distrupt catecholaminergic signalling. Further, TINEV treatment induced hypermethylation upstream of the DBH gene. An antisense lncRNA to DBH was found in purified TINEV preparations. Paracrine signalling to induce transcriptional gene silencing and DNA methylation may be a common mode to regulate neurologic function.
The anti-cancer agent APR-246 can activate several programmed cell death processes to kill malignant cells
Authors: Wang Zilu , Hu Huimin , Heitink Luuk , Rogers Kelly , you yu , Tan Tao , Suen Connie Li Wai , Garnham Alexandra , Chen Hao , Lieschke Elizabeth , Diepstraten Sarah , Chang Catherine , Moujalled Diane , Sutherland Kate , Lessene Guillaume , Sieber Oliver , Visvader Jane , Kelly Gemma , Strasser Andreas 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Mutant TP53 proteins are thought to drive the development and sustained expansion of cancers at least in part through the loss of the wild-type (wt) TP53 tumour suppressive functions. Therefore, compounds that can restore wt TP53 functions in mutant TP53 proteins are expected to inhibit the expansion of tumours expressing mutant TP53. APR-246 has been reported to exert such effects in malignant cells and is currently undergoing clinical trials in several cancer types. However, there is evidence that APR-246 may also kill malignant cells that do not express mutant TP53. To support the clinical development of APR-246 it is important to understand its mechanism(s) of action. By establishing isogenic background tumour cell lines with different TP53/TRP53 states, we found that APR-246 can kill malignant cells irrespective of their TP53/TRP53 status. Accordingly, RNAseq analysis revealed that treatment with APR-246 induces expression of the same gene set in Em-Myc mouse lymphoma cells of all four possible TRP53 states, wt, wt alongside mutant, knockout and knockout alongside mutant. We found that depending on the type of cancer cell and the concentration of APR-246 used, this compound can kill malignant cells through induction of various programmed cell death pathways, including apoptosis, necroptosis and ferroptosis. The sensitivity of non-transformed cells to APR-246 also depended on the cell type. These findings reveal that the clinical testing of APR-246 should not be limited to cancers expressing mutant TP53 but expanded to cancers that express wt TP53 or are TP53-deficient.
Reducing complications of femoral neck fracture management:a retrospective study on the application of multidisciplinary team
Authors: Liang Weiming , Qin Gang , Yu Lizhi , Wang Yingying 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Backgroud:Femoral neck fractures are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality for older adults. Patients sustaining hip fractures usually have comorbid conditions that may benefit from application of multidisciplinary team(MDT).
Methods: A retrospective study was performed.We included 199 patients who had surgery for a femoral neck fracture for two 2-year periods before and after implementation of the MDT. Age, gender,comorbidity status, time to surgery, and postoperative complication,length of stay,in-hospital mortality,30-day readmission rate,90-day mortality data were collected and analyzed.
Results:Preoperative general data of sex, age, community dwelling and charlson comorbidity score of MDT group(n = 103) have no statistically significant difference with that of usual care (UC) group.Patients treated in the MDT model had significantly shorter times to surgery (38.5 vs 73.4 hours;P = 0.028) and lower lengths of stay (11.5 vs 15.2 days;P = 0.031). There were no significant differences between two models in In-hospital mortality (1.0% vs 2.1%; P = 0.273),30-day readmission rate(7.8% vs 11.5%; P = 0.352) and 90-day mortality(2.9% vs 3.1%; P = 0.782).The MDT model had fewer complications overall(16.5% vs 31.3%; P = 0.039), with significantly lower risks of delirium, postoperative infection,bleeding, cardiac complication, hypoxia, and thromboembolism.
Conclusion: Application of MDT can provide standardized protocols and a total quality management approach,leading to fewer complications for elderly patients with femoral neck fracture.
Trial registration:No.
Growth bound and threshold dynamic for nonautonomous nondensely defined evolution problems
Authors: Djidjou-Demasse Ramsès , SEYDI Ousmane 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Note: Please see pdf for full abstract with equations.
We propose a general framework for simultaneously calculating the threshold value for population growth and determining the sign of the growth bound of the evolution family generated by the problem below
dv(t)/dt = Av(t) + F(t)v(t) − V(t)v(t),
where A : D(A) ⊂ X → X is a Hille-Yosida linear operator (possibly unbounded, non-densely defined) on a Banach space (X, ∥ · ∥), and the maps t ∈ R 7→ V(t) ∈ L(X0,X), t ∈ R 7→ F(t) ∈ L(X0,X) are p-periodic in time and continuous in the operator norm topology. We give applications of our approach for two general examples of an age-structured model, and a delay differential system. Other examples concern the dynamics of a nonlocal problem arising in population genetics and the dynamics of a structured human-vector malaria model.
Mathematics Subject Classification 34K20; 37B55; 47D62; 47N60; 92D25