Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Designing as Trading-off A Practice-based View on Smart Service Systems

Posture-related problems, such as back pain, are an increasing global burden. They are deeply intertwined with how humans sit. While the information systems (IS) literature has been relatively silent on this matter, emerging literature in related disciplines has begun to attend to this problem by developing various artefacts. However, researchers have oftentimes done so by basing their artefacts on engineering rationales and attending only limitedly to the interactions between artefacts and humans. These interactions are crucial because data on posture is best collected by placing sensors on humans’ backs. This calls for considering and evaluating how bodies move in relation to sensors, the emotive reactions of humans to sensors and how humans make sense of recommendations emanating from underlying artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. We uncover what these considerations of human-centredness mean for designing smart service systems for posture management and suggest that a core consideration relates to trading-off possibilities of smart technologies and necessities emerging from practices. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on designing smart service systems and responds to calls for more IS research dealing with the prevention of chronic health conditions.
A predictive atlas of disease onset from retinal fundus photographs

Early detection of high-risk individuals is crucial for healthcare systems to cope with changing demographics and an ever-increasing patient population. Images of the retinal fundus are a non- invasive, low-cost examination routinely collected and potentially scalable beyond ophthalmology. Prior work demonstrated the potential of retinal images for risk assessment for common cardiometabolic diseases, but it remains unclear whether this potential extends to a broader range of human diseases. Here, we extended a retinal foundation model (RETFound) to systematically explore the predictive potential of retinal images as a low-cost screening strategy for disease onset across >750 incident diseases in >60,000 individuals. For more than a third (n=308) of the diseases, we demonstrated improved discriminative performance compared to readily available patient characteristics. This included 281 diseases outside of ophthalmology, such as type 2 diabetes (Delta C-Index: UK Biobank +0.073 (0.068, 0.079)) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Delta C-Index: UK Biobank +0.047 (0.039, 0.054)), showcasing the potential of retinal images to complement screening strategies more widely. Moreover, we externally validated these findings in 7,248 individuals from the EPIC-Norfolk Eye Study. Notably, retinal information did not improve the prediction for the onset of cardiovascular diseases compared to established primary prevention scores, demonstrating the need for rigorous benchmarking and disease-agnostic efforts to design cost-efficient screening strategies to improve population health. We demonstrated that predictive improvements were attributable to retinal vascularisation patterns and less obvious features, such as eye colour or lens morphology, by extracting image attributions from risk models and performing genome-wide association studies, respectively. Genetic findings further highlighted commonalities between eye-derived risk estimates and complex disorders, including novel loci, such as IMAP1, for iron homeostasis. In conclusion, we present the first comprehensive evaluation of predictive information derived from retinal fundus photographs, illustrating the potential and limitations of easily accessible and low-cost retinal images for risk assessment across common and rare diseases.
Explainable fuzzy clustering framework reveals divergent default mode network connectivity dynamics in schizophrenia

Introduction Dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) analysis of resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging data has yielded insights into many neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. A common dFNC analysis approach uses hard clustering methods like k-means clustering to assign samples to states that summarize network dynamics. However, hard clustering methods obscure network dynamics by assuming (1) that all samples within a cluster are equally like their assigned centroids and (2) that samples closer to one another in the data space than to their centroids are well-represented by their centroids. In addition, it can be hard to compare subjects, as in some cases an individual may not manifest a state strongly enough to enter a hard cluster. Approaches that allow a dimensional approach to connectivity patterns (e.g., fuzzy clustering) can mitigate these issues. In this study, we present an explainable fuzzy clustering framework by combining fuzzy c-means clustering with several explainability metrics and novel summary features. Methods We apply our framework for schizophrenia (SZ) default mode network analysis. Namely, we extract dFNC from individuals with SZ and controls, identify 5 dFNC states, and characterize the dFNC features most crucial to those states with a new perturbation-based clustering explainability approach. We then extract several features typically used in hard clustering and further present a variety of unique features specially designed for use with fuzzy clustering to quantify state dynamics. We examine differences in those features between individuals with SZ and controls and further search for relationships between those features and SZ symptom severity. Results Importantly, we find that individuals with SZ spend more time in states of moderate anticorrelation between the anterior and posterior cingulate cortices and strong anticorrelation between the precuneus and anterior cingulate cortex. We further find that individuals with SZ tend to transition more rapidly than controls between low-magnitude and high-magnitude dFNC states. Conclusion We present a novel dFNC analysis framework and use it to identify effects of SZ upon network dynamics. Given the ease of implementing our framework and its enhanced insight into network dynamics, it has great potential for use in future dFNC studies.
Alterations in stride-to-stride fluctuations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease during a self-paced treadmill 6-minute walk test

Evaluating variability and stability using measures for nonlinear dynamics may provide additional insight into the structure of the locomotor system, reflecting the neuromuscular system’s organization of gait. This is in particular of interest when this system is affected by a respiratory disease and it’s extrapulmonary manifestations. This study assessed stride-to-stride fluctuations and gait stability in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during a self-paced, treadmill 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and its association with clinical outcomes. In this cross-sectional study, eighty patients with COPD (age 62±7y; forced expiratory volume in first second 56±19%predicted) and 39 healthy older adults (62±7y) were analyzed. Gait parameters including stride-to-stride fluctuations (coefficient of variation (CoV), predictability (sample entropy) and stability (Local Divergence Exponent (LDE)) were calculated over spatiotemporal parameters and center of mass velocity. Independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U test and ANCOVA analyses were conducted. Correlations were calculated between gait parameters, functional mobility using Timed Up and Go Test, and quadriceps muscle strength using dynamometry. Patients walked slower than healthy older adults. After correction for Speed, patients demonstrated increased CoV in stride length (F(1,116) = 5.658, p = 0.019), and increased stride length predictability (F(1,116) = 3.959, p = 0.049). Moderate correlations were found between mediolateral center of mass velocity LDE and normalized maximum peak torque (ρ = -0.549). This study showed that patients with COPD demonstrate alterations in stride length fluctuations even when adjusted for walking speed, highlighting the potential of nonlinear measures to detect alterations in gait function in patients with COPD. Association with clinical outcomes were moderate to weak, indicating that these clinical test are less discriminative for gait alterations.
Dimmit & Zavala Counties, Texas, soil survey of

This soil survey contains information that can be used in land-planning programs in Dimmit and Zavala Counties. It contains predictions of soil behavior for selected land uses. The survey also highlights limitations and hazards inherent in the soil, improvements needed to overcome the limitations, and the impact of selected land uses on the environment.
Mapping Human Resources to Guide Ophthalmology Capacity-Building Projects in Honduras: Sub-national Analyses of Physician Distribution and Surgical Practices

Objective: To map ophthalmologist locations and surgical practices as they vary sub-nationally within Honduras to maximize the impact of efforts to develop cataract surgical capacity. Methods: An anonymous survey was sent to all Honduran ophthalmologists with questions on surgical volume, department-level location, type of facility in which they work, surgical methods, and age. Surgical volume, population, and poverty data sourced through the Oxford Poverty Human Development Initiative were mapped at the department level, and cataract surgical rates (CSR; surgeries per million population per year) were calculated and mapped. Results: Sixty-one of the 102 Honduran ophthalmologists contacted responded. Of those, 85% perform cataract surgery, and 49% work at least part time in a non-profit or governmental facility. Honduras has fewer surgical ophthalmologists per million than the global average, and though national CSR appears to be increasing, it varies significantly between departments. The correlation between CSR and poverty is complex, and outliers provide valuable insights. Conclusion: Mapping ophthalmological surgical practices as they relate to population and poverty at a sub-national level provides important insights into geographic trends in the need for and access to eye care. Such insights can be used to guide efficient and effective development of cataract surgical capacity.
Factors Associated With Service Referrals and Uptake in Early Head Start

Secondary analysis of the Early Head Start Family and Child Experiences Survey 2018 data set (Baby FACES 2018) explored links between family risk events and referral-making and referral uptake among families receiving Early Head Start (EHS) services. Referrals to both behavioral health and entitlement programs were considered. Results showed that referrals to behavioral health programs were much more likely to be given to families receiving care from home-based care than center-based care, and that referrals were slightly more likely to be given to families who did not have any family risk events. Several factors also moderated the relationship between family risk and referrals, including perceived closeness of the parent/caregiver–EHS staff relationship, family conflict, and caregiver depression. There were no observed effects for referrals to entitlement programs. Caregiver depression weakened the link between family risk and service uptake for entitlement programs.
Increased genomic instability and reshaping of tissue microenvironment underlie oncogenic properties of Arid1a mutations

Oncogenic mutations accumulating in many chromatin-associated proteins have been identified in different tumor types. With a mutation rate from 10 to 57%, ARID1A has been widely considered a tumor suppressor gene. However, whether this role is mainly due to its transcriptional-related activities or its ability to preserve genome integrity is still a matter of intense debate. Here, we show that ARID1A is largely dispensable for preserving enhancer-dependent transcriptional regulation, being ARID1B sufficient and required to compensate for ARID1A loss. We provide in vivo evidence that ARID1A is mainly required to preserve genomic integrity in adult tissues. ARID1A loss primarily results in DNA damage accumulation, interferon type I response activation, and chronic inflammation leading to tumor formation. Our data suggest that in healthy tissues, the increased genomic instability that follows ARID1A mutations and the selective pressure imposed by the microenvironment might result in the emergence of aggressive, possibly immune-resistant, tumors.
Spatiotemporal mapping of rice acreage and productivity growth in Bangladesh

Technological advancements have long played crucial roles in rice productivity and food security in Bangladesh. Seasonal variation over time and regional differences in rice production, however, pose a threat to agricultural sustainability but remain unexplored. We performed a spatial-temporal mapping of rice cultivation area, production, and yield from 2006–2007 to 2019–2020 using secondary data for disaggregating 64 districts in Bangladesh. Growth and multivariate approaches were employed to analyze time-series data. Results showed that Mymensingh had the highest rice cultivated area and production, while Bandarban had the lowest. The 14 years highest average rice yield was found in Gopalganj and Dhaka (3.63 tons/ha), while Patuakhali (1.73 tons/ha) had the lowest. For the Aus, Aman, and Boro, the rice cultivation area in 19 districts, 11 districts, and 13 districts declined significantly. The overall rice production increased significantly in most districts. For the Aus, Aman, and Boro seasons, the rice yield in 54, 50, and 37 districts demonstrated a significant upward trend, respectively. The adoption rate of modern varieties has risen dramatically. However, there are notable variances between regions and seasons. A significant increasing trend in Aus (0.007% to 0.521%), Aman (0.004% to 0.039%), and Boro (0.013% to 0.584%) were observed in 28, 34, and 36 districts, respectively, with an increase of 1% adaptation of HYV. Predictions revealed that rice cultivation area and production of Aus, Aman, and Boro seasons will be increased in most of the regions of Bangladesh by 2030. Based on spatiotemporal cluster analysis, the five identified cluster groupings illustrated that clusters lack spatial cohesion and vary greatly seasonally. This suggests increasing rice production by expanding cultivable land, adopting high-yielding varieties, and integrating faster technological advancement in research and extension. The findings will assist scientists in developing region-specific production technologies and policymakers in designing decentral region-specific policies to ensure the future sustainability of rice production.
Facilitators and barriers of HPV vaccination: a qualitative study in rural Georgia

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination protects against HPV-associated cancers and genital warts. Healthy People 2030 goal for HPV vaccine uptake is 80%, but as of 2021, only 58.5% of adolescents are up to date in Georgia. The purpose of the study is to assess the attitudes, vaccine practices, facilitators, and barriers to receiving the HPV vaccine in southwest Georgia. Methods We conducted 40 semi-structured interviews with three different audiences (young adults, parents, and providers and public health professionals) guided by the P3 (patient-, provider-, practice-levels) model and used deductive coding approach. Young adults and parents were interviewed to assess their perceived benefits, barriers, and susceptibility of the HPV vaccine. Providers and public health professionals were interviewed about facilitators and barriers of patients receiving the HPV vaccine in their communities. Results Out of the 40 interviews: 10 young adults, 20 parents, and 10 providers and public health professionals were interviewed. Emerging facilitator themes to increase the uptake of the HPV vaccine included existing knowledge (patient level), providers’ approach to the HPV vaccine recommendations (provider level) and immunization reminders (practice level). Barrier themes were lack of knowledge around HPV and the HPV vaccine (patient level), need for strong provider recommendation and discussing the vaccine with patients (provider level), and limited patient reminders and information (practice level). Conclusions These interviews revealed key themes around education, knowledge, importance of immunization reminders, and approaches to increasing the HPV vaccination in rural Georgia. This data can inform future interventions across all levels (patient, provider, practice, policy, etc.) to increase HPV vaccination rates in rural communities.
Breaking-Down Barriers: Proposal of Using Cellulose Biosynthesis Inhibitors and Cellulase Enzyme as a Novel Treatment Modality for Vision Threatening Pythium Insidiosum Keratitis

Abstract Pythium insidiosum, an Oomycete, causes severe keratitis that endangers vision. Its clinical, morphological, and microbiological characteristics are often indistinguishable from those of fungal keratitis, earning it the moniker “parafungus”. Distinctive clinical hallmarks that set it apart from other forms of keratitis include radial keratoneuritis, tentacles, marginal infiltration, and a propensity for rapid limbal spread. The therapeutic approach to Pythium keratitis (PK) has long been a subject of debate, and topical and systemic antifungals and antibacterials have been tried with limited success. Approximately 80% of these eyes undergo therapeutic keratoplasty to salvage the eye. Hence, there is a need to innovate for alternative and better medical therapy to safeguard these eyes. The resistance of Pythium to standard antifungal treatments can be attributed to the absence of ergosterol in its cell wall. Cell walls of plants and algae have cellulose as an essential constituent. Cellulose imparts strength and structure and acts as the “skeleton” of the plant. Fungal and animal cell walls typically lack cellulose. The cellular architecture of Pythium shares a similarity with plant and algal cells through the incorporation of cellulose within its cell wall structure. Inhibitors targeting cellulose biosynthesis (CBI), such as Indaziflam, Isoxaben, and Quinoxyphen, serve as critical tools for elucidating the pathways of cellulose synthesis. Furthermore, the enzymatic action of cellulase is instrumental for the extraction of proteins and DNA. To circumvent this issue, we hypothesize that CBI’s and cellulase enzymes can act on the Pythium cell wall and may effectively treat PK. The available literature supporting the hypothesis and proof of concept has also been discussed. We have also discussed these drugs’ molecular mechanism of action on the Pythium cell wall. We also aim to propose how these drugs can be procured and used as a potential medical management option for this devastating entity.
TTDCapsNet: Tri Texton-Dense Capsule Network for complex and medical image recognition

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) are frequently used algorithms because of their propensity to learn relevant and hierarchical features through their feature extraction technique. However, the availability of enormous volumes of data in various variations is crucial for their performance. Capsule networks (CapsNets) perform well on a small amount of data but perform poorly on complex images. To address this, we proposed a new Capsule Network architecture called Tri Texton-Dense CapsNet (TTDCapsNet) for better complex and medical image classification. The TTDCapsNet is made up of three hierarchic blocks of Texton-Dense CapsNet (TDCapsNet) models. A single TDCapsNet is a CapsNet architecture composed of a texton detection layer to extract essential features, which are passed onto an eight-layered block of dense convolution that further extracts features, and then the output feature map is given as input to a Primary Capsule (PC), and then to a Class Capsule (CC) layer for classification. The resulting feature map from the first PC serves as input into the second-level TDCapsNet, and that from the second PC serves as input into the third-level TDCapsNet. The routing algorithm receives feature maps from each PC for the various CCs. Routing the concatenation of the three PCs creates an additional CC layer. All these four feature maps combined, help to achieve better classification. On fashion-MNIST, CIFAR-10, Breast Cancer, and Brain Tumor datasets, the proposed model is evaluated and achieved validation accuracies of 94.90%, 89.09%, 95.01%, and 97.71% respectively. Findings from this work indicate that TTDCapsNet outperforms the baseline and performs comparatively well with the state-of-the-art CapsNet models using different performance metrics. This work clarifies the viability of using Capsule Network on complex tasks in the real world. Thus, the proposed model can be used as an intelligent system, to help oncologists in diagnosing cancerous diseases and administering treatment required.
Neuronal NPR-15 modulates molecular and behavioral immune responses via the amphid sensory neuron-intestinal axis in C. elegans

The survival of hosts during infections relies on their ability to mount effective molecular and behavioral immune responses. Despite extensive research on these defense strategies in various species, including the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the neural mechanisms underlying their interaction remain poorly understood. Previous studies have highlighted the role of neural G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in regulating both immunity and pathogen avoidance, which is particularly dependent on aerotaxis. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a screen of mutants in neuropeptide receptor family genes. We found that loss-of-function mutations in npr-15 activated immunity while suppressing pathogen avoidance behavior. Through further analysis, NPR-15 was found to regulate immunity by modulating the activity of key transcription factors, namely GATA/ELT-2 and TFEB/HLH-30. Surprisingly, the lack of pathogen avoidance of npr-15 mutant animals was not influenced by oxygen levels. Moreover, our studies revealed that the amphid sensory neuron ASJ is involved in mediating the immune and behavioral responses orchestrated by NPR-15. Additionally, NPR-15 was found to regulate avoidance behavior via the TRPM gene, GON-2, which may sense the intestinal distension caused by bacterial colonization to elicit pathogen avoidance. Our study contributes to a broader understanding of host defense strategies and mechanisms underlining the interaction between molecular and behavioral immune responses.
Factors associated with increased lactate levels in cardiac surgeries: scoping review

ABSTRACT Objectives: to map the factors associated with increased lactate levels in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery using extracorporeal circulation. Methods: this is a scoping review carried out in December 2022, across ten data sources. It was prepared in accordance with the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Results: the most recurrent findings in studies regarding the factors responsible for the increase in lactate were: tissue hypoperfusion, cardiopulmonary bypass time and use of vasoactive drugs. In 95% of studies, increased lactate was related to increased patient mortality. Conclusions: discussing the causes of possible complications in cardiac surgery patients is important for preparing the team and preventing complications, in addition to ensuring quality recovery.