bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Characterization of Compliant Cellular Robots. Part II: Active Strain
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Nawroj Ahsan , Dollar Aaron M. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Modular active cell robots (MACROs) is a design approach in which a large number of linear actuators and passive compliant joints are assembled to create an active structure with a repeating unit cell. Such a mesh-like robotic structure can be actuated to achieve large deformation and shape-change. In this two-part paper, we use finite element analysis (FEA) to model the deformation behavior of different MACRO mesh topologies and evaluate their passive and active mechanical characteristics. In Part I, we presented the passive stiffness characteristics of different MACRO meshes. In this Part II of the paper, we investigate the active strain characteristics of planar MACRO meshes. Using FEA, we quantify and compare the strains generated for the specific choice of MACRO mesh topology and further for the specific choice of actuators actuated in that particular mesh. We simulate a series of actuation modes that are based on the angular orientation of the actuators within the mesh and show that such actuation modes result in deformation that is independent of the size of the mesh. We also show that there exists a subset of such actuation modes that spans the range of deformation behavior. Finally, we compare the actuation effort required to actuate different MACRO meshes and show that the actuation effort is related to the nodal connectivity of the mesh.
Modeling and Real-Time Motion Planning of a Class of Kinematically Redundant Parallel Mechanisms With Reconfigurable Platform
Authors: Nouri Rahmat Abadi Bahman , Carretero Juan A. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Kinematic redundancy can be exploited to improve the performance of parallel mechanisms. Nevertheless, motion planning and control of kinematically redundant parallel mechanisms (KRPMs) are the challenging problems. In this research, a novel class of KRPMs with a reconfigurable platform is introduced. The dynamic equations of motion are derived. Then, a neural network approach is used for the motion planning of a manipulator in the new class. The multilayer perceptron-based neural network (MLP) is used for training data. The results show that the method can be implemented online for the control of the mechanism. Also, since the platform is reconfigurable, the introduced mechanisms can be used for grasping irregular objects. The motion of the mechanism is simulated for singularity avoidance and grasping.
Effects of Low-Frequency Whole-Body Vibration on Muscle Activation, Fatigue, and Oxygen Consumption in Healthy Young Adults: A Single-Group Repeated-Measures Controlled Trial
Authors: Yoon Ju-Yul , Kang Seung-Rok , Kim Hye-Seong , Won Yu Hui , Park Sung-Hee , Seo Jeong-Hwan , Ko Myoung-Hwan , Kim Gi-Wook 
Published: May 2022

Context: Whole-body vibration (WBV) training improves muscle strength and balance. Few studies have focused on the effects of WBV frequencies below 30 Hz. We aimed to investigate the effect of low-frequency WBV training on muscle activity, fatigue recovery, and oxygen consumption (VO2). Design: Prospective single-group, repeated-measures study. Methods: In this controlled laboratory setting study, 20 healthy adults (age 23.26 [1.66] y) performed half squats at 0, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, and 30-Hz WBV. Muscle activity was evaluated using the root mean square and peak electromyography amplitude of 6 muscles (iliocostalis, rectus abdominis, rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius) obtained via surface electromyography. VO2 was measured during the squats using a gas analyzer, and fatigue recovery was evaluated using measurements of lactate after the squats and after a recovery period. Statistical significance was set at P < .05, and analysis of variance was conducted to determine differences in muscle activity, fatigue, recovery, and VO2, with post hoc analyses as appropriate. Results: Of the 6 muscles measured, the muscle activity of the gastrocnemius alone significantly increased from 0 Hz at 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, and 30 Hz based on the root mean square values and at 4, 8, 12, and 30 Hz based on the peak electromyography amplitude values. There were no significant differences in the other muscles. There were no significant differences in VO2 or in lactate levels. Conclusions: Low-frequency WBV during squat exercises significantly increased the activity of the gastrocnemius medialis only at specific frequencies in healthy young adults. Low-frequency WBV is safe and has the potential to increase muscle activity.
Higher childhood pneumonia admission threshold remains in Lao PDR: an observational study
Authors: Lim Ruth , Chaummanivong Molina , Taikeophithoun Chansathit , Gray Amy , Jenney Adam W J , Sychareun Vanphanom , Nguyen Cattram , Russell Fiona 
Published: May 2022

ObjectivesWHO Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) guidelines changed pneumonia hospitalisation criteria in 2014, which was implemented in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) in 2015. We determined adherence to: current (2014) IMCI guidelines for children presenting to hospitals with pneumonia, current outpatient management guidelines and identified hospitalisation predictors.DesignProspective observational study (January 2017 to December 2018).SettingOutpatient and emergency departments of four hospitals in Vientiane, Lao PDR.Patients594 children aged 2–59 months diagnosed with pneumonia.Main outcome measuresNumber of children diagnosed, hospitalised, managed, administered preventive measures and followed-up accordant with current guidelines.ResultsNon-severe and severe pneumonia were correctly diagnosed in 97% and 43% of children, respectively. Non-severe pneumonia with lower chest wall indrawing (LCI) was diagnosed as severe in 15%. Hospitalisation rates were: 80% for severe pneumonia, 86% and 3% for non-severe pneumonia with and without LCI, respectively. Outpatient oral antibiotic prescribing was high (99%), but only 30% were prescribed both the recommended antibiotic and duration. Appropriate planned follow-up was 89%. Hospitalisation predictors included age 2–5 months (compared with 24–59 months; OR 3.95, 95% CI 1.90 to 8.24), public transport to hospital (compared with private vehicle; OR 2.60, 95% CI 1.09 to 6.24) and households without piped drinking water (OR 4.67, 95% CI 2.75 to 7.95).ConclusionsHospitalisation practice for childhood pneumonia in Lao PDR remains more closely aligned with the 2005 WHO IMCI guidelines than the currently implemented 2014 iteration. Compliance with current outpatient antibiotic prescribing guidelines was low.
Maternal and neonatal peripartum factors associated with late initiation of breast feeding in Bangladesh: a secondary analysis
Authors: Roy Abhijeet , Hossain Md Mokbul , Ullah Md. Barkat , Mridha Malay Kanti 
Published: May 2022

ObjectivesLate initiation of breast feeding (LIBF) is associated with increased neonatal mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to assess the association between intrapartum, early postpartum and neonatal factors, and LIBF in Bangladesh.Design, setting and participantsIn this analysis, we used data from the mothers participating in a cluster-randomised controlled trial (Rang-Din Nutrition Study) conducted in rural northwest Bangladesh. Mothers (n=3594) were interviewed about the time of initiation of breast feeding, and peripartum maternal and neonatal complications within the first 72 hours of delivery. LIBF was defined as initiation of breast feeding 1 hour after birth. Factors associated with LIBF were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis.Main outcome measuresPrevalence and associated factors of LIBF.ResultsThe prevalence of LIBF was 18.5%. Factors significantly associated with LIBF in multivariable logistic regression were assisted vaginal delivery (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.17, 95% CI 1.44 to 3.27); delivery by caesarean section (AOR 9.67, 95% CI 7.21 to 12.96); maternal health problems during childbirth (AOR 1.61, 95% CI 1.30 to 2.00); preterm newborns (AOR 1.39, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.78); newborns moved slowly immediately after birth (AOR 1.43, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.94); and sick newborns (AOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.29).ConclusionsFindings from this study suggest that to reduce LIBF, peripartum maternal and neonatal complications should be prevented and treated.Trial registration numberNCT01715038.
Divergent decennial trends in mental health according to age reveal poorer mental health for young people: repeated cross-sectional population-based surveys from the HUNT Study, Norway
Authors: Krokstad Steinar , Weiss Daniel Albert , Krokstad Morten Austheim , Rangul Vegar , Kvaløy Kirsti , Ingul Jo Magne , Bjerkeset Ottar , Twenge Jean , Sund Erik R 
Published: May 2022

ObjectivesPublic health trends are formed by political, economic, historical and cultural factors in society. The aim of this paper was to describe overall changes in mental health among adolescents and adults in a Norwegian population over the three last decades and discuss some potential explanations for these changes.DesignRepeated population-based health surveys to monitor decennial changes.SettingData from three cross-sectional surveys in 1995–1997, 2006–2008 and 2017–2019 in the population-based HUNT Study in Norway were used.ParticipantsThe general population in a Norwegian county covering participants aged 13–79 years, ranging from 48 000 to 62 000 000 in each survey.Main outcome measuresPrevalence estimates of subjective anxiety and depression symptoms stratified by age and gender were assessed using the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-5 for adolescents and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for adults.ResultsAdolescents’ and young adults’ mental distress increased sharply, especially between 2006–2008 and 2017–2019. However, depressive symptoms instead declined among adults aged 60 and over and anxiety symptoms remained largely unchanged in these groups.ConclusionsOur trend data from the HUNT Study in Norway indicate poorer mental health among adolescents and young adults that we suggest are related to relevant changes in young people’s living conditions and behaviour, including the increased influence of screen-based media.
Long-term ocular and visual outcomes following symptomatic and asymptomatic congenital CMV infection: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Karamchandani Urvi , Ahmed Umar , Rufai Sohaib R , Tan Naomi , Tan Weijen , Petrushkin Harry , Solebo Ameenat Lola 
Published: May 2022

IntroductionCytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the most common congenitally acquired infections worldwide. Visual impairment is a common outcome for symptomatic infants, with long-term ophthalmic surveillance often recommended. However, there are no clear guidelines for ophthalmic surveillance in infants with asymptomatic disease. We aim to conduct a systematic review to establish the overall prevalence and incidence of eye and vision related disorders following congenital CMV infection (cCMV).Methods and analysisA systematic review and meta-analysis (pending appropriate data for analysis) of cross-sectional and longitudinal studies will be conducted. The PubMed, Embase and CINAHL databases will be searched up to 29 March 2022 without date or language restrictions. Studies will be screened by at least two independent reviewers. Methodological quality of included studies will be assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. The primary outcome measures will be incidence and/or prevalence of vision impairment or ophthalmic disorders in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic cCMV infection. A narrative synthesis will be conducted for all included studies. The overall prevalence will be estimated by pooling data using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity between studies will be estimated using Cochran’s Q and the I2 statistics. Egger’s test will be used to assess for publication bias.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required as there is no primary data collection. Study findings will be disseminated at scientific meetings and through publication in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberThis is not a clinical trial, but the protocol has been registered: CRD42021284678 (PROSPERO)
Risk factors for hospitalisation and death from COVID-19: a prospective cohort study in South Sudan and Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Leidman Eva , Doocy Shannon , Heymsfield Grace , Sebushishe Abdou , Mbong Eta Ngole , Majer Jennifer ,   The IMC-CDC COVID-19 Research Team, Bollemeijer Iris 
Published: May 2022

ObjectivesOur study described demographic characteristics, exposures and symptoms, and comorbidities to evaluate risk factors of hospitalisation and mortality among cases in Juba, South Sudan (SSD) and North and South Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).DesignProspective observational cohort of COVID-19 cases.MethodsIndividuals presenting for care at one of five study facilities in SSD (n=1) or DRC (n=4) or referred from home-based care by mobile medical teams between December 2020 and June 2021 were eligible for enrolment. Demographic characteristics, COVID-19 exposures, symptoms at presentation, as well as acute and chronic comorbidities, were evaluated using a standard questionnaire at enrolment. Disease progression was characterised by location of care using mixed-effects regression models.Results751 individuals were eligible for enrolment. Among cases followed to discharge or death (n=519), 375 were enrolled outpatients (75.7%). A similar number of cases were enrolled in DRC (n=262) and SSD (n=257). Overall mortality was 4.8% (95% CI: 3.2% to 6.9%); there were no outpatient deaths. Patients presenting with any symptoms had higher odds of hospitalisation (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.78, 95% CI 1.47 to 5.27) and all deaths occurred among symptomatic individuals. Odds of both hospitalisation and mortality were greatest among cases with respiratory symptoms; presence of low oxygen levels on enrolment was strongly associated with both hospitalisation (AOR 7.77, 95% CI 4.22 to 14.29) and mortality (AOR 25.29, 95% CI 6.42 to 99.54). Presence of more than one chronic comorbidity was associated with 4.96 (95% CI 1.51 to 16.31) times greater odds of death; neither infectious comorbidities evaluated, nor malnutrition, were significantly associated with increased mortality.ConclusionsConsistent with prior literature, older age, low oxygen level, other respiratory symptoms and chronic comorbidities were all risk factors for mortality. Patients presenting with these characteristics were more likely to be hospitalised, providing evidence of effective triage and referral.Trial registration numberNCT04568499.
Emergency department patients’ attitudes towards the use of data in their clinical record for research without their consent
Authors: Schultz-Swarthfigure Chase , Kelly Anne-Maree , Zion Deborah 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundHealth research often uses health information, a subcategory of personal information, collected during clinical encounters. Conditions under which such health information can be used for the secondary purpose of research are set out in state, national and international law. In Australia, consent is required or the relevant conditions for a waiver of consent must be met and approved by a human research ethics committee (HREC). Consent for use of health information for research is rarely sought at an emergency department (ED) presentation. Research often occurs after the index visit and gaining consent can be difficult. Waiver of consent provisions are frequently used, but acceptability of this approach to patients is unclear.ObjectiveTo identify ED patients’ knowledge and attitudes towards the use of health information for research, consent preferences and acceptability of waiver of consent.MethodsAn online, anonymous survey of adult patients attending two large EDs in Melbourne, Australia.Results103 patients completed the survey. We found that 52% were unaware that health information might be used for research. A majority (77%) felt that HREC approval for use of health information without consent was acceptable. However, 36% would prefer to be contacted regarding consent.ConclusionThese findings suggest a lack of awareness that health information can be used for research and that waiver of consent is acceptable, but not necessarily preferred, in most of the ED patient population. Efforts to increase awareness and provide opportunities to express preferences about health information use for research are needed.
Aspiration thrombectomy versus stent retriever thrombectomy alone for acute ischemic stroke: evaluating the overlapping meta-analyses
Authors: Azzam Ahmed Y , Ghozy Sherief , Kallmes Kevin M , Adusumilli Gautam , Heit Jeremy J , Hassan Ameer E , Kadirvel Ramanathan , Kallmes David F 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundPrevious studies comparing a direct aspiration first pass technique (ADAPT) and stent retrievers have inconsistent methodologies and data reporting, limiting the ability to accurately assimilate data from different studies that would inform treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treatment.ObjectiveTo conduct a systematic review to discuss and compare the findings of all relevant meta-analysis studies comparing the efficacy of the ADAPT and stent retriever techniques.MethodsThe study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), where meta-analyses comparing the efficacy of the ADAPT technique and stent retrievers in the treatment of AIS were included. We extracted all relevant data from the included studies and assessed the quality of the included meta-analyses using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Review (AMSTAR-2).ResultsSeven relevant studies met our inclusion criteria and were suitable for the qualitative synthesis. All included studies obtained data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational investigations (including levels II, III, and IV). At the same time, none of them used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) for quality assessment. In accordance with AMSTAR-2, two studies were rated ‘high’, while the other five were rated ‘moderate’.ConclusionsPresent evidence is insufficient to clarify the superiority of one modality over the other. Further RCTs on this comparison must be conducted prior to designing further meta-analyses or making conclusive interpretations. Procedure duration and cost should be taken into consideration for any future studies.
Chromatin Rewiring by Mismatch Repair Protein MSH2 Alters Cell Adhesion Pathways and Sensitivity to BET Inhibition in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Nargund Amrita M. , Xu Chang , Mandoli Amit , Okabe Atsushi , Chen Gao Bin , Huang Kie Kyon , Sheng Taotao , Yao Xiaosai , Teo Jia Ming Nickolas , Sundar Raghav , Kok Yee Jiun , See Yi Xiang , Xing Manjie , Li Zhimei , Yong Chern Han , Anand Aparna , Bin Adam Isa Zul Fazreen , Poon Lai Fong , Ng Michelle Shu Wen , Koh Javier Yu Peng , Ooi Wen Fong , Tay Su Ting , Ong Xuewen , Tan Angie Lay Keng , Smoot Duane T. , Ashktorab Hassan , Grabsch Heike I. , Fullwood Melissa J. , Teh Bin Tean , Bi Xuezhi , Kaneda Atsushi , Li Shang , Tan Patrick 
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Mutations in the DNA mismatch repair gene MSH2 are causative of microsatellite instability (MSI) in multiple cancers. Here, we discovered that besides its well-established role in DNA repair, MSH2 exerts a novel epigenomic function in gastric cancer. Unbiased CRISPR-based mass spectrometry combined with genome-wide CRISPR functional screening revealed that in early-stage gastric cancer MSH2 genomic binding is not randomly distributed but rather is associated specifically with tumor-associated super-enhancers controlling the expression of cell adhesion genes. At these loci, MSH2 genomic binding was required for chromatin rewiring, de novo enhancer–promoter interactions, maintenance of histone acetylation levels, and regulation of cell adhesion pathway expression. The chromatin function of MSH2 was independent of its DNA repair catalytic activity but required MSH6, another DNA repair gene, and recruitment to gene loci by the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeler SMARCA4/BRG1. Loss of MSH2 in advanced gastric cancers was accompanied by deficient cell adhesion pathway expression, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and enhanced tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo. However, MSH2-deficient gastric cancers also displayed addiction to BAZ1B, a bromodomain-containing family member, and consequent synthetic lethality to bromodomain and extraterminal motif (BET) inhibition. Our results reveal a role for MSH2 in gastric cancer epigenomic regulation and identify BET inhibition as a potential therapy in MSH2-deficient gastric malignancies.

Significance:
DNA repair protein MSH2 binds and regulates cell adhesion genes by enabling enhancer–promoter interactions, and loss of MSH2 causes deficient cell adhesion and bromodomain and extraterminal motif inhibitor synthetic lethality in gastric cancer.
Phase II Clinical Trial of Eribulin–Gemcitabine Combination Therapy in Previously Treated Patients With Advanced Liposarcoma or Leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Kim Chang Gon , Sim Nam Suk , Kim Jeong Eun , Yun Kum-Hee , Lee Young Han , Kim Seung Hyun , Baek Wooyeol , Han Yoon Dae , Kim Sang Kyum , Kim Jee Hung , Koh Yoon Woo , Jung Inkyung , Shin Su-Jin , Rha Sun Young , Ahn Jin-Hee , Kim Hyo Song 
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Purpose:
Monotherapy with eribulin or gemcitabine has been found to be moderately effective in treating soft-tissue sarcomas (STS). In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of eribulin–gemcitabine combination therapy for the two most common histologic types of STS, liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma.

Patients and Methods:
In this nonrandomized, multicenter, phase II study, we included patients with progressive disease who had received one or two courses of chemotherapy that included doxorubicin. Patients were administered 1.4 mg/m2 eribulin and 1,000 mg/m2 gemcitabine on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival rate at 12 weeks (PFSR12wks), with null and alternative hypotheses of PFSR12wks ≤20.0% and ≥40.0%, respectively. Exploratory biomarker analyses with next-generation sequencing (NGS) were performed on pretreatment tumor samples.

Results:
Among the 37 patients included, the overall PFSR12wks was 73.0%, achieving the primary endpoint. The objective response rate, disease control rate, median progression-free survival, and median overall survival were 16.2%, 78.4%, 5.6 months, and 31.9 months, respectively, without differences according to histologic type. New safety signals and treatment-related deaths were not documented. NGS-based transcriptome analysis revealed that functional enrichment in the TGFβ pathway was mostly associated with a poor outcome, whereas single genetic alterations largely failed to predict treatment outcome.

Conclusions:
Eribulin–gemcitabine combination therapy showed promising activity and an acceptable safety profile in patients with liposarcoma or leiomyosarcoma. Gene expression profiling with pathway enrichment analysis would have possibilities to have predictive value for survival outcome, necessitating further investigation to confirm.