bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social Support, General Self-Efficacy, Fear of Falling, and Physical Activity Among Older Adults in a Middle-Income Country
Authors: Okoye Emmanuel C. , Onwuakagba Ifeoma U. , Akile Cynthia C. , Okonkwo Uchenna P. , Akosile Christopher O. , Mgbeojedo Ukamaka G. , Oyewumi Taiwo J. , Kubeyinje Oluwaseun S. 
Published: April 2022

Objectives: To investigate the levels and interrelationships between fear of falling (FOF), physical activity (PA), social support (SS), and general self-efficacy (GSE) among older adults in a Nigerian community. Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey involving 100 older adults (65.0% females; mean age = 74.25 ± 8.01 years) consecutively recruited from Nnewi community. Participants’ FOF, PA, GSE, and SS were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Spearman rank order correlation, and structural equation modeling at a 0.05 level of significance. Results: The participants’ mean FOF, PA, GSE, and SS scores were 15.22 ± 7.43 (fearful), 114.76 ± 90.18 (low), 21.64 ± 8.25 (low) and 5.72 ± 1.19 (high) respectively. There were significant correlations between each pair of FOF, PA, GSE, and SS scores of the participants ( p < .05). FOF and GSE were significant predictors of PA while GSE and SS were significant predictors of FOF. Conclusion: FOF and SS were high while PA and GSE were low in this sample of Nigerian older adults. Significant correlations existed between FOF, SS, GSE, and PA, with FOF and GSE being predictors of PA while GSE and SS significantly predicted FOF. Measures should be geared towards reducing FOF and improving PA, GSE, and SS in this group.
Hunger as a Political Critique: Memories as Resistance in M. Kunhaman’s Ethiru
Authors: Shalini M.  , Mathew Moncy 
Published: April 2022

The article looks at how memories and experiences of hunger in Dalit life writings form a strong political critique against the claims of modern welfare society. The instances of hunger recorded in Ethiru by Kunhaman are analysed in order to see how hunger itself constitutes a humiliating experience when it is combined with experiences of caste discriminations. Despite developing juridical as well as social sensibilities to irradicate hunger and poverty, caste-ridden contexts give rise to situations of death by hunger not due to any shortage of food but due to ostracization and alienation of the marginalized communities. These moments also expose the colonial and feudal views and prejudices about the poor, their attitude to hard work, and value of labour and charity which still lie deep in the social psyche of many developed countries. The article attempts to locate Kunhaman’s work within the context of emerging critiques from the marginalized communities against tall claims of the progressivism and development indices of Kerala society.
Clinical and Imaging Outcomes of Plantar Fasciotomy Using Microdebrider Coblation Wand
Authors: Colberg Ricardo E. , Kenneth-Nwosa Ken O. , Jurado Vélez Javier A. , Slowik Jonathan S. , Fleisig Glenn S. 
Published: April 2022

Background: A plantar fasciotomy using a microdebrider coblation wand may be an effective treatment for treating chronic plantar fasciitis. The objective of this prospective study was to determine the success rate of performing a plantar fasciotomy using a microdebrider coblation wand to treat plantar fasciitis and determine utility of ultrasonographic imaging to evaluate for recovery after treatment. Methods: Patients with plantar fasciitis treated with a plantar fasciotomy using a microdebrider coblation wand were prospectively followed for 1 year. Outcome measures included numeric rating scale (NRS) for pain, Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI), the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure for activities of daily living (FAAMA) and for sports (FAAMS), and plantar fascia thickness evaluated with ultrasonographic imaging. Results: Forty patients were included. Average patient age was 53.4 ± 9.9 years. Average symptom duration prior to the procedure was 20 ± 26 months. Five patients dropped out of the study at various points, most due to the COVID quarantine. The mean preoperative NRS score was 4.7 and at 3 and 6 months postprocedure was ≤2. At 1 year, the outcomes were all improved compared to the preoperative status: NRS 0.7±1.3 ( P < .001), FADI 107±16 ( P < .001), FAAMA 95%±10% ( P < .001), FAAMS 84%±19% ( P < .001), and plantar fascia thickness 6.8 ± 1.2 mm ( P = .014). Furthermore, 86% of patients had clinically successful outcome in pain, defined as NRS score ≤ 2 (95% CI 0, 2), and 91% of patients had a clinically successful outcome in their function, defined as having an FAAMA score ≥75%. There were no complications at the operative site either during or after the procedure. Conclusion: In this study of 40 patients followed prospectively, we found percutaneous plantar fasciotomy using a microdebrider coblation wand to be an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, with a low incidence of complications. Ultrasonographic imaging may help evaluate for interval healing. Level of Evidence: Level IV, prospective case series.
Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction in Women With Depressive Disorder at a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Devkota Lila , Pant Sagun Ballav , Ojha Saroj Prasad , Chapagai Manisha 
Published: April 2022

Background: Sexual dysfunction in female with depressive disorder is highly prevalent and strikingly understudied. Epidemiological and clinical studies have shown association between depression and impairments of sexual function. Despite high prevalence, there are limited studies regarding the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among female with depressive disorder in Nepal. Aims: This study was conducted to find out the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in female with depressive disorder in Nepal, their association with treatment status, and the level of psychological distress caused by it. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among female with depression at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Nepal. The participants were grouped as drug naïve and under medication. Data were collected using semi-structured proforma, Beck Depression Inventory, Kessler 6+ Psychological Distress Scale, and Female Sexual Function Index. Data were tabulated and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23. Results: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 58.82%, being 60.78% in drug-naïve cases and 56.86% in females suffering from depression and receiving medications. This study showed statistically significant association between sexual dysfunction and psychological distress but not with age, duration of marriage, number of children, occupational, and financial status. Conclusions: The study reported high prevalence of sexual dysfunction among female with depression. All domains of sexual function were affected and showed significant association with psychological distress. Therefore, assessment of sexual dysfunction in every female with depression is required to address the problem timely and efficiently.
The evaluation of the role of technology in the pathways to comorbidity care implementation project to improve management of comorbid substance use and mental disorders
Authors: Uribe Guajardo Maria Gabriela , Baillie Andrew , Louie Eva , Giannopoulos Vicki , Wood Katie , Riordan Ben , Haber Paul , Morley Kirsten 
Published: April 2022

In substance use treatment settings, comorbid mental health problems can occur in up to 70% of people. An integrated approach for managing comorbidity, implementing evidence-based intervention in drug and alcohol settings, remains problematic. Technology can help in adopting evidence-based practice to implement effective treatment healthcare pathways. This study sought to examine aspects of tailored portal utilization (barriers and facilitators) by participants taking part in a program aimed at improving the implementation of evidence-based practice for comorbidity management Pathways to Comorbidity Care (PCC). Method A self-report questionnaire and a semi-structured interview were designed to measure clinician satisfaction with the PCC portal and e-resources throughout a 9-month intervention. An adapted version of the “Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and, Sustainability” (NASSS) framework facilitated discussion of the findings. Results Twenty participants from drug and alcohol services responded to all measures. Facilitators included: (i). clinician acceptance of the portal; (ii). guidance from the clinical supervisor or champion to encourage e-resource use. Barriers included: (i). complexity of the illness (condition); (ii). participants’ preference (adopter system) for face-to-face resources and training modes; and, (iii). lack of face-to-face training on how to use the portal ( technology and organization). Conclusion Based on the NASSS framework, we identified several barriers and facilitators of the use of the portal including the complexity of illness, lack of face-to-face training, and clinician preference for training mediums. Recommendations include ongoing organizational support, in-house clinical supervision, and consultation with clinical providers to assist in the development of tailored e-health resources and open training opportunities on how to operate and effectively utilize these resources.
“The Plane of Y0”: Evaluating Reliability of a Novel Method of Measuring the Liver With Sonography Using Internal References
Authors: Joish Upendra Kumar , Abhishek S. , Gund Shardul 
Published: April 2022

Objective: The present methods for the linear measurement of the liver with sonography are based on external reference lines. In addition, these measurements are subject to interrater variability due to relative mobility of liver and abdominal wall during breathing, change in position, and so on. A novel method using a plane with two internal references (plane of Y0) was developed as an alternative. The purpose of this study was to estimate the reliability of the novel method and compare with other commonly used methods. Materials and Methods: A prospective, analytical, cross-sectional study was completed in a radiology department, including individuals referred for sonography and a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of abdomen. Three radiologists sonographically measured the craniocaudal dimension of liver in the “plane of Y0,” midclavicular, and anterior axillary lines for each participant. In 60 participants, the craniocaudal measurements obtained in the “plane of Y0,” in both contrast-enhanced CT and sonography, were compared for validity. Interrater correlation coefficients were calculated for each method. Results: Three hundred thirty-four participants underwent sonography of the liver. Sixty of them also underwent a contrast-enhanced CT. The craniocaudal measurements within the “plane of Y0” showed excellent reliability in comparison with other methods. It was found to be valid when compared with measurements completed on the CT image. Conclusion: Measuring the liver in the “plane of Y0,” with two identifiable internal references, is reliable, valid, and recommended for possible use in daily clinical practice. Key Takeaways Using internal reference points for measurements of internal organs, with sonography, will reduce interoperator variability. The “plane of Y0” passing through two internal reference points within the liver, the branching of right portal vein (Y shaped) and gallbladder (0 shaped lumen), can be easily acquired with sonography. Measurement in the craniocaudal dimension of liver, in the “plane of Y0,” showed validity and high interrater reliability (0.91). The normal range of measurements in adults was found to be 10.5 to 15.1 cm.
Role of Handedness in Conducting an Ultrasound-Guided Procedure: A Comparative Study
Authors: Yoosaf Shifa Shajahan , Umer Mohamed Zubair , Sugashini Veerasamy , Ravindran Greeshma C. , Kumar Lakshmi 
Published: April 2022

Objective: Sonography is widely used by clinicians to provide imaging assistance in guiding invasive procedures. Many sonography users tend to prefer their dominant hand to operate the needle and their nondominant hand on the ultrasound transducer. The aim was this study was to determine whether the dominant hand guiding the needle achieves a faster time to target during ultrasound-guided procedures compared with the nondominant hand. Materials and Methods: Forty novice sonography users, medical students, were randomized to participate in the study. Twenty medical students used a Sonosite® ultrasound equipment system and the other 20 used a Mindray® ultrasound equipment system. Following a video education training session, an informed consent was obtained from each participant. In each equipment group, participants were randomly allocated to either a right-handed needle and a left-handed transducer preference or a left-handed needle and right-handed transducer preference group. A total of ten participants were in each group. A timer was started when the ultrasound transducer came in contact with the phantom model and stopped when the needle reached the target. This simulated task was repeated ten times by the participants. The hand arrangement for the needle and transducer was then switched and the task repeated another ten times by each participant. Results: Handedness was observed over multiple attempts and “time to target” was recorded for groups with both hand preferences and varied ultrasound equipment systems. The most significant finding was that the difference in time was statistically significant between the groups, when comparing the first and fifth procedural attempts. Conclusion: In this novice group of users, despite training for ultrasound-guided procedures using phantom models, irrespective of the ultrasound equipment system, or hand preference, there was no difference in the time to target.
Ultrasonically Assisted Cutting of Histological Sections for Reducing the Environmental and Financial Impact of Microtomy
Authors: Wang Dong , De Becker Daniel , Roy Anish 
Published: April 2022

AbstractModern-day microtomy requires high precision equipment to thinly section biological tissues. The sectioned tissue must be of good quality not showing cutting tracks or so-called artefacts. The quality of these sections is dependent on the blade wear, which is related to the hardness of the tissue sample, cutting angle and cutting speed. A test rig has been designed and manufactured to allow these parameters to be controlled. This has allowed for the blade wear to be analysed and quantified, and this has been completed for both ultrasonically assisted and conventional cutting. The obtained results showed a 25.2% decrease in average blade roughness after 38 cuts when using the ultrasonically assisted cutting regime. The data also showed no adverse effect on the quality of the slides produced when using this cutting methodology. Finally, the cutting force measured for both cutting regimes showed that ultrasonically assisted cutting required less force compared to conventional cutting. With the reduction of surface roughness and force, it is possible to state that ultrasonically assisted cutting reduces the wear of the blade, thereby increasing the life of the blades. An increase of just 10% in blade life would yield a cost saving of approximately 25% thereby reducing the environmental and financial impact of microtomy.
The olfactory bulb coordinates the ventral hippocampus–medial prefrontal cortex circuit during spatial working memory performance
Authors: Salimi Morteza , Tabasi Farhad , Nazari Milad , Ghazvineh Sepideh , Raoufy Mohammad Reza 
Published: April 2022

AbstractNeural oscillations synchronize the activity of brain regions during cognitive functions, such as spatial working memory. Olfactory bulb (OB) oscillations are ubiquitous rhythms that can modulate neocortical and limbic regions. However, the functional connectivity between the OB and areas contributing to spatial working memory, such as the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), is less understood. Hence, we investigated functional interaction between OB and the vHPC–mPFC circuit during the spatial working memory performance in rats. To this end, we analyzed the simultaneously recorded local field potentials from OB, vHPC, and mPFC when rats explored the Y-maze and compared the brain activities of correct trials vs. wrong trials. We found that coupling between the vHPC and mPFC was augmented during correct trials. The enhanced coherence of OB activity with the vHPC–mPFC circuit at delta (< 4 Hz) and gamma (50–80 Hz) ranges were observed during correct trials. The cross-frequency analysis revealed that the OB delta phase increased the mPFC gamma power within corrected trials, indicating a modulatory role of OB oscillations on mPFC activity during correct trials. Moreover, the correlation between OB oscillations and the vHPC–mPFC circuit was increased at the delta range during correct trials, exhibiting enhanced synchronized activity of these regions during the cognitive task. We demonstrated a functional engagement of OB connectivity with the vHPC–mPFC circuit during spatial working memory task performance.
Comprehensive evaluation of structural variant genotyping methods based on long-read sequencing data
Authors: Duan Xiaoke , Pan Mingpei , Fan Shaohua 
Published: April 2022

AbstractBackgroundStructural variants (SVs) play a crucial role in gene regulation, trait association, and disease in humans. SV genotyping has been extensively applied in genomics research and clinical diagnosis. Although a growing number of SV genotyping methods for long reads have been developed, a comprehensive performance assessment of these methods has yet to be done.ResultsBased on one simulated and three real SV datasets, we performed an in-depth evaluation of five SV genotyping methods, including cuteSV, LRcaller, Sniffles, SVJedi, and VaPoR. The results show that for insertions and deletions, cuteSV and LRcaller have similar F1 scores (cuteSV, insertions: 0.69–0.90, deletions: 0.77–0.90 and LRcaller, insertions: 0.67–0.87, deletions: 0.74–0.91) and are superior to other methods. For duplications, inversions, and translocations, LRcaller yields the most accurate genotyping results (0.84, 0.68, and 0.47, respectively). When genotyping SVs located in tandem repeat region or with imprecise breakpoints, cuteSV (insertions and deletions) and LRcaller (duplications, inversions, and translocations) are better than other methods. In addition, we observed a decrease in F1 scores when the SV size increased. Finally, our analyses suggest that the F1 scores of these methods reach the point of diminishing returns at 20× depth of coverage.ConclusionsWe present an in-depth benchmark study of long-read SV genotyping methods. Our results highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each genotyping method, which provide practical guidance for optimal application selection and prospective directions for tool improvement.
Effects of growth years on ginsenoside biosynthesis of wild ginseng and cultivated ginseng
Authors: Fang Xiaoxue , Wang Manqi , Zhou Xinteng , Wang Huan , Wang Huaying , Xiao Hongxing 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Background
Ginsenoside, as the main active substance in ginseng, has the function of treating various diseases. However, the ginsenosides content of cultivated ginseng is obviously affected by the growth years, but the molecular mechanism is not clear. In addition, there are significant differences in morphology and physiology between wild ginseng and cultivated ginseng, and the effect of growth years on ginsenoside synthesis not yet understood in wild ginseng.

Results
Transcriptome sequencing on the roots, stems and leaves of cultivated ginseng and wild ginseng with different growth years was performed in this study, exploring the effect of growth years on gene expression in ginseng. The number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from comparison groups in cultivated ginseng was higher than that in wild ginseng. The result of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed that growth years significantly affected the gene expression of Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway in cultivated ginseng, but had no effects in wild ginseng. Furthermore, the growth years had significant effects on the genes related to ginsenoside synthesis in cultivated ginseng, and the effects were different in the roots, stems and leaves. However, it had little influence on the expression of genes related to ginsenoside synthesis in wild ginseng. Growth years might affect the expression of genes for ginsenoside synthesis by influencing the expression of these transcription factors (TFs), like my elob lastosis (MYB), NAM, ATAF1 and 2, and CUC2 (NAC), APETALA2/ethylene-responsive factor (AP2/ERF), basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) and WRKY, etc., thereby affecting the content of ginsenosides.

Conclusions
This study complemented the gaps in the genetic information of wild ginseng in different growth periods and helped to clarify the potential mechanisms of the effect of growth years on the physiological state in wild ginseng and cultivated ginseng, which also provided a new insight into the mechanism of ginsenoside regulation.
Macrophage-targeted anti-CCL2 immunotherapy enhances tumor sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil in a Balb/c-CT26 murine colon carcinoma model measured using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy
Authors: Bess Shelby N. , Greening Gage J. , Rajaram Narasimhan , Muldoon Timothy J. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Background
Immunotherapy in colorectal cancer (CRC) regulates specific immune checkpoints and, when used in combination with chemotherapy, can improve patient prognosis. One specific immune checkpoint is the recruitment of circulating monocytes that differentiate into tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and promote tumor angiogenesis. Changes in vascularization can be non-invasively assessed via diffuse reflectance spectroscopy using hemoglobin concentrations and oxygenation in a localized tumor volume. In this study, we examine whether blockade of monocyte recruitment via CCL2 (macrophage chemoattractant protein-1) leads to enhanced sensitivity of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in a CT26-Balb/c mouse model of CRC. It was hypothesized that the blockade of TAMs will alter tumor perfusion, increasing chemotherapy response. A subcutaneous tumor model using Balb/c mice injected with CT26 colon carcinoma cells received either a saline or isotype control, anti-CCL2, 5-FU, or a combination of anti-CCL2 and 5-FU.

Results
Findings show that 12 days post-treatment, monocyte recruitment was significantly reduced by approximately 61% in the combination group. This shows that the addition of anti-CCL2 to 5-FU slowed the fold-change (change from the original measurement to the final measurement) in tumor volume from Day 0 to Day 12 (~ 5 fold). Modest improvements in oxygen saturation (~ 30%) were observed in the combination group.

Conclusion
The findings in this work suggest that the blockade of CCL2 is sufficient in the reduction of TAMs that are recruited into the tumor microenvironment and has the ability to modestly alter tumor perfusion during early-tumor response to treatment even though the overall benefit is relatively modest.