bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ubuntu Way: Ensuring Ethical AI Integration in Health Research
Authors: Odero Brenda , Nderitu David , Samuel Gabrielle
Published: October 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in health research has grown rapidly, particularly in African nations, which have also been developing data protection laws and AI strategies. However, the ethical frameworks governing AI use in health research are often based on Western philosophies, focusing on individualism, and may not fully address the unique challenges and cultural contexts of African communities. This paper advocates for the incorporation of African philosophies, specifically Ubuntu, into AI health research ethics frameworks to better align with African values and contexts. This study explores the concept of Ubuntu, a philosophy that emphasises communalism, interconnectedness, and collective well-being, and its application to AI health research ethics. By analysing existing global AI ethics frameworks and contrasting them with the Ubuntu philosophy, a new ethics framework is proposed that integrates these perspectives. The framework is designed to address ethical challenges at individual, community, national, and environmental levels, with a particular focus on the African context. The proposed framework highlights four key principles derived from Ubuntu: communalism and openness, harmony and support, research prioritisation and community empowerment, and community-oriented decision-making. These principles are aligned with global ethical standards such as justice, beneficence, transparency, and accountability but are adapted to reflect the communal and relational values inherent in Ubuntu. The framework aims to ensure that AI-driven health research benefits communities equitably, respects local contexts and promotes long-term sustainability. Integrating Ubuntu into AI health research ethics can address the limitations of current frameworks that emphasise individualism. This approach not only aligns with African values but also offers a model that could be applied more broadly to enhance the ethical governance of AI in health research worldwide. By prioritising communal well-being, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship, the proposed framework has the potential to foster more responsible and contextually relevant AI health research practices in Africa.
Study protocol for an observational cohort study of heat stress impacts in pregnancy in The Gambia, West Africa
Authors: Bonell Ana , G. Ioannou Leonidas , Sesay Abdul , A. Murray Kris , Bah Bubacarr , Jeffries David , E. Moore Sophie , Vicero-Cabrera Ana , S Maxwell Neil , E Hirst Jane , Tan Cally , Saucy Apolline , Watters Dorothy , Sonko Bakary , Okoh Emmanuel , Idris Yahaya , Oluwatosin Adefila Williams , Manneh Jarra , Leigh-Nabou Mam , Bojang Sainabou , Flouris Andreas , Haines Andy , Prentice Andrew , N Sferruzzi-Perri Amanda
Published: October 2024

Climate change has resulted in an increase in heat exposure globally. There is strong evidence that this increased heat stress is associated with poor maternal and fetal outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations. However, there remains poor understanding of the biological pathways and mechanisms involved in the impact of heat in pregnancy. This observational cohort study of 764 pregnant participants based in sub-Saharan Africa, a geographical region at risk of extreme heat events, aims to evaluate the physiological and biochemical changes that occur in pregnancy due to heat stress. The key objectives of the study are to 1) map exposure to heat stress in the cohort and understand what environmental, social and community factors increase the risk of extreme heat exposure; 2) assess the impact of heat stress on maternal health, e.g. heat strain, subjective psychological well-being, sleep and activity level; 3) evaluate how heat stress impacts placenta structure and function; 4) determine how chronic heat exposure impacts birth outcomes; and 5) explore the epigenetic changes in the placenta and infant by heat stress exposure per trimester. Pregnant women will be recruited from two distinct regions in The Gambia to exploit the naturally occurring heat gradient across the country. Microclimate mapping of the area of recruitment will give detailed exposure measurements. Participants will be asked to wear a watch-style device at 28- and 35-weeks gestational age to evaluate maternal heart rate, activity and sleep. At the end of the week, an ultrasound scan will be performed to evaluate fetal size and placental blood flow. At delivery, birth outcomes will be recorded and maternal, placental and cord samples taken for epigenetic, biochemical and histological evaluation. Evaluation of neuro-behaviour and final infant samples will be taken at 1 month following birth.
Exposure to copper metal enhances the tolerance of An. gambiae s.s. over multiple generations while reducing both fertility and fecundity in this primary malaria vector.
Authors: Koto Yérima Gounou Boukari Massioudou , Tchigossou Genevieve , Djègbè Innocent , Tepa-Yotto Ghislain T. , Tossou Eric , Hessou-Djossou Donald , Dossou Camille , Monra Seidou Louckman , Glokpon Aldo Emmanuel C. , Adanzounon Danahé , Gbankoto Adam , Djouaka Rousseau
Published: October 2024

Background Anopheles s.l. displays the potential to develop tolerance to heavy metals, particularly copper, this may occur at a significant biological cost, which can adversely affect its ecological fitness. This study investigated the larval metal exposure on larval development and reproduction of An. gambiae s.s., a laboratory susceptible strain, kisumu. Methods Stage 2 larvae of Anopheles gambiae, Kisumu were exposed to C1 = 484 μg L-1, C2 = 300 μg L-1 and 0 μg L-1 (control) of copper chloride. Larval mortality, pupation time, pupation rate, gonotrophic cycle length, fecundity and fertility of larvae/adults were assessed over six generations. Results Results revealed that larval mortality rate was significantly higher in the C1 groups of each group (p = 0.000), but this mortality rate decreased over generations. Pupation time was extended to 13 and 14 days respectively for C2 and C1 groups (p = 0.000) compared to the control group. Similar results were observed for the gonotrophic cycle, which increased from 4 days at G0 to more than 6 days at generation 5 in adults of C1. The pupation rate in generation 4 (C1) and generation 5 of the same group (p = 0.000) as well as the emergence rate in generation 4 (C2, p = 0.000) and generation 5 (C1 and C2, p = 0.000) decreased significantly compared to the control group. The average number of eggs laid was lower in the test groups from generation 4 to generation 5 (C1 and C2, p = 0.00) and egg fertility was also negatively affected by exposure of the larval stage of An. gambiae s.s. to copper. Conclusion Although studies have already shown that copper induces resistance in An. gambiae s.l. to insecticides, this study has shown that this adaptation requires a non-negligible biological cost in the life of the insect.
Christian Transhumanism and Transhumanist Christianity
Authors: Peters Ted Frank
Published: October 2024

What might a Christian Transhumanism or, better, a Transhumanist Christianity, look like? Might conscientious Christians today absorb transhumanist zeal and enhancement technology into holy goals of enriching the individual soul and transforming the social fabric? As stewards of human creativity, public theologians and cybertheologians are provided an opportunity by their transhumanist friends to contribute to wider human flourishing and global wellbeing. Yet, realism regarding original sin heightens the challenge to discern what is good while avoiding the pitfalls of messianic hubris.
Między platonikami z Cambridge a empirystami z The Royal Society - zarys filozofii Josepha Glanvilla
Authors: Płoski Jakub
Published: October 2024

The article's purpose is to present the views of the 17th-century English philosopher - Joseph Glanvill. They are placed around two main intellectual tendences present in early modern English philosophy. Neoplatonism from the University of Cambridge and the empiricism of the early Royal Society. Discussing the first pool of inspirations, the author points to the typically Platonic elements in his system and the characteristic features of Glanvill’s philosophy, which may place him in the broad tradition of English Latitudinarianism. He then presents the specifics of Glanvill’s skepticism and empiricism. Glanvill’s spiritualist proposals seem to mediate between Cambridge Neoplatonism and the philosophies of the early Royal Society. They were inspired both by the specific understanding of spirit found in More’s Neoplatonic metaphysics and by certain thoughts present among early modern naturalists. In general presentation, Joseph Glanvill’s philosophical views appear as a synthesis of elements characteristic of these two approaches.
Valacyclovir induced neurotoxicity, with therapeutic drug monitoring, in a hospital-based setting in the Netherlands
Authors: Eijsink Job F.H. , Udo Joost N. , Touw Daan J. , Dekkers Bart J.
Published: October 2024

Background: Valacyclovir-induced neurotoxicity is a rare side effect. The aim of this study was to perform a retrospective analysis of patients with valacyclovir-induced neurotoxicity and establish valacyclovir plasma concentrations in a tertiary hospital between January 2018 and November 2022. Case descriptions: In total 208 patients were identified with measured acyclovir concentrations, and the electronic health records of these patients were analysed. Based on the in- and exclusion criteria, 4 patents were identified in whom high plasma concentrations were linked to neurotoxicity. The first patient experienced balance and coordination problems, visual hallucinations, speaking difficulties and headaches. The second patient experienced a progressive decline of consciousness, resulting in coma. The third patient also experienced reduced consciousness and was found unconscious on the floor during the night. The fourth patient experienced vertigo after administration of acyclovir. Conclusion: Based on this study, neurotoxicity appears to be an underreported adverse effect of valacyclovir therapy in a hospital setting. This side effect may have a high impact on individuals as well as on the duration of hospitalization. In order to exclude valacyclovir as the cause, clinicians should consider requesting an acyclovir plasma concentration as standard hospital-based intervention whenever a patient experiences neurotoxic symptoms. Moreover, pharmacists and clinicians should be made better aware of the interaction between valacyclovir and cyclosporine and/or mycophenolic acid, in particular in elderly patients with impaired kidney function.
The relationship among participating motivation, satisfaction, and school life satisfaction in rope skipping high school sports club
Authors: Lee Tae-Gyung , Kim Young-Chul , Kim Jun-Su
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze the relationship between high school students’ willingness to participate in a school rope jumping club, their satisfaction with participation, and their satisfaction with school life. To this end, data were collected from 411 male and female high school students participating in a school rope jumping club in Incheon, and the following results were derived through factor analysis, frequency analysis, t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and multiple regression analysis. First, male students showed higher scores than female students in all participation willingness factors. Second, the participation willingness factor partially significantly affected the program, leader, and health satisfaction of participation satisfaction. Third, enjoyment, skill development, and condition significantly affected academic activities and rule compliance, and in the case of peer relationships, sociability and skill development significantly affected. Fourth, in the case of academic activities, program satisfaction, leader satisfaction, and health satisfaction can be explained as having a significant effect, and in the case of rule compliance, program satisfaction and leader satisfaction significantly affected, and in the case of peer relationships, program satisfaction and leader satisfaction significantly affected. In this way, it was revealed that there was an overall significant effect between high school students’ desire to participate in the school rope jumping club, participation satisfaction, and school life satisfaction.
Trends in Korean intervention studies on complementary and alternative therapies in rehabilitation nursing
Authors: Kim Da-Jung
Published: October 2024

In nursing, complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) can be provided alongside, or as alternatives, to conventional medical treatments to maximize therapeutic effects, accelerate rehabilitation, and enhance patient satisfaction. Fostering the correct knowledge and attitudes toward CATs is crucial not only for theoretical development but also for practical application. To gain a comprehensive understanding of recent domestic research trends, this study conducted an integrative review to analyze different types of CAT-related intervention studies in rehabilitation nursing in South Korea. A literature search of relevant databases suggested 14 papers. The review revealed that most studies focused on older adult patients, with manipulative and body-based therapies being the most common CAT interventions, followed by energy therapies, mind-body therapies, and others. The efficacy analysis of the CATs used in the selected studies indicated that their effects varied depending on participant characteristics and outcome measures, even when the same CAT was employed. To advance the field of rehabilitation nursing, effective CATs that are proven to be safe for older adult patients need to be developed and actively utilized. Additionally, specialized nurse training programs and clinical and community-based applications for rehabilitation patients requiring interventions need to be developed.
Optimising wound healing: the role of gelling fibre technology and antimicrobial silver nanoparticles
Authors: Dhoonmoon Luxmi
Published: October 2024

Gelling-fibre dressings have been found to be a rapid and effective tool for exudate management. Suprasorb Liquacel Pro is a soft, conformable non-woven dressing made from sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and strengthening cellulose fibres. When it comes into contact with wound exudate or blood, the absorbent dressing forms a gel, creating a moist wound environment. Cell debris and bacteria in the exudate are retained inside the fibre dressing and removed during the dressing change. The high vertical absorption of exudate into the fibre dressing protects the wound environment and the wound edge, thus supporting the healing process. Suprasorb Liquacel Ag has additional antimicrobial abilities with the inclusion of nanosilver technology, shown to be effective in killing bacteria and managing bioburden.
An Improved HBA Method for Path Planning of Substation Inspection Robots
Authors: Shengfei Tang , Hui Xie , Jingjing Zhou , Jin Chen , Zhigang Meng
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the problems of honey badger algorithm (HBA) in the path planning of substation inspection robot, such as long path length, time-consuming search and high obstacle risk rate, an improved HBA algorithm called IHBA is proposed. Firstly, the honey badger population is initialized by reverse learning mechanism to increase its diversity. Secondly, the adaptive weight factor is used to improve the density factor of the HBA, which effectively balances the exploration capacity in different stages and improves the optimization accuracy of the population. Finally, the elite mutation strategy is used to strengthen the honey badgers’ location, which can guide the population to produce offspring in the food source area with better adaptability. To verify the improved effect of the algorithm and its path planning performance, the path planning experiments are designed, which indicate that compared with the BOA, IACO, GFA and classic HBA, the proposed IHBA in this paper has shorter path, higher search efficiency and lower obstacle risk rate, which can not only help the substation inspection robot plan the optimal path globally, but also increase the smoothness of the planned path.
Collaborative Optimization of Multi-regional Integrated Energy System Based on Improved Beluga Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Ming
Published: October 2024

With the installed capacity of the renewable energy power generation is growing at a high speed, a large number of the renewable energy is connected to the grid, the energy problem has been solved to a large extent, but the ensuing problems can not be ignored, the first is the consumption of the renewable energy, which is followed by the stability problem of the power system, and a multi-regional integrated energy system (MRIES) is constructed to solve the problem. In view of the wind power uncertainty, the absorption treatment is carried out by the equipment layer and the optimization layer respectively. A hybrid energy storage system (HESS) is introduced in the equipment layer to suppress the influence of the wind power uncertainty on the system stability. A combination of the convolutional filtering algorithm, the Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise algorithm and the fuzzy control algorithm is introduced in the optimization layer to develop the charging and discharging strategy of the HESS. With the strategy, the impact of the electric power fluctuations on the power system during the optimization process can be reduced largely. Then, on the basis of fully considering the energy coupling in different equipments, a collaborative optimization model of the MRIES is constructed. And the integrated demand response model considering the time-of-use electric price is introduced in the load side. Finally, the improved Beluga optimization(IBWO) algorithm is developed to optimize the model. The optimization results show that the IBWO algorithm plays a good optimization effect both in the participation of energy supply equipments and the economy, plays a collaborative optimization role in the MRIES and ensures the stability of the whole power system.
Exploring the professional discourse on environmental social work: a descriptive content analysis of selected publications from Germany and the US
Authors: Winzen Charlotte , Haupt Marlene
Published: October 2024

Climate change and its disproportionate impacts on vulnerable groups have prompted the social work profession to become increasingly involved in environmental justice issues. Academic discourse on environmental social work has surged in the last decade, but limited studies examine its implementation by practitioners or information dissemination by professional organisations. Translational research highlights the crucial role of professional associations in informing practitioners of new scientific discoveries and practice paradigms. This qualitative content analysis compares a small selection of articles and podcast episodes published through the professional associations of social workers in the US (the National Association of Social Workers) and Germany (the Deutscher Berufsverband für Soziale Arbeit e.V.), respectively, focusing on environmental social work and its implications for the social work profession. The findings suggest that publications from both countries use similar arguments for proving the relevance of climate change issues for the profession but diverge considerably in their focus on how environmental social work should be applied.
Topology-optimized terahertz real-time reconfigurable multifunctional liquid-crystal-coding metasurface
Authors: Chen Yu , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Yajie , Luan Jiaqi , Cao Yang , Gao Dingshan , Li Peili
Published: October 2024

In this paper, a reflective terahertz reconfigurable multifunctional coding metasurface based on topology optimization using liquid crystal (LC) is presented. First, the LC metasurface unit is topologically optimized using the NSGA-II multi-objective optimization algorithm. By applying the bias voltage to dynamically adjust the dielectric constant of the LC, the metasurface unit is capable of 2-bit coding at the frequency of 0.67 THz. Then, based on the designed metasurface unit, the array arrangements of the coding metasurface are reversely designed, which makes the metasurface realize flexible control and dynamic switching between beam assignment and vortex beam generation. The results show that for the beam assignment, the single-beam and multi-beam control can be realized with the reflected electromagnetic waves at continuous arbitrary angles in the range of elevation angle of 40° and azimuth angle of 360°. Moreover, the elevation angle and azimuth angle of each beam in the multi-beam can be controlled independently. Using the Fourier convolution addition operation, the control range of the single-beam elevation angle can be expanded. For the vortex beam, the single vortex beam and the multi-vortex beam can be generated in the range of elevation angle of 40° and azimuth angle of 360° with topological charges l=±1, ±2, ±3 at arbitrary angles. This provides flexibility and diversity in the generation of vortex beams. Therefore, the proposed terahertz LC metasurface can realize flexible control of reconfigurable functions and has certain application prospects in terahertz communication, phased array radar, and vortex radar.
Influence of normalization in characterization of pulses with different peak powers in a fiber laser by using soliton distillation
Authors: Tong Yiming , Lan Hengwen , Buczynski Ryszard , Tang Xiahui , Tang Ming , Deng Lei , Zhao Luming
Published: October 2024

Soliton distillation is applied to pulses with different peak powers from a fiber laser. A specific normalization strategy is adopted to check the influence on soliton purification. During soliton distillation, we used the same normalization parameter, instead of individual optimized normalization parameters, for pulses with different peak powers, even for pulses with peak power differences larger than 3 dB. Simulation results suggest that the nonlinear Fourier transform can be performed by using the same normalization parameter for pulses of different intensities. The discrete spectrum energy of the purified soliton can be used to quantify the degree of deviation from the original pulse.
Dielectric microsphere sizing using fluorescence microscopy of whispering gallery mode resonances from adsorbed dyes
Authors: Alidoust Ghatar Azizeh , Ben-Shachar Nitay , Le Ru Eric C.
Published: October 2024

Whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonances in dielectric microspheres are very sensitive to their size and environment, which can be used for sensing but also as an indirect proxy to determine their size. By coating them with suitable fluorescent dyes and using fluorescence microscopy, we show that the WGM resonances of individual microspheres in solution can be easily studied with a high throughput. Brownian motion ensures that a representative sample is probed over time in the scattering volume. To analyze these WGM-imprinted fluorescent spectra, we propose a simple algorithm based on monitoring the spacing between resonances and comparing it to Mie theory predictions to infer their size. This allows us to measure the size distribution of typical polystyrene microsphere solutions. We also discuss the potential effects of dye concentration and choice of particle refractive index on the analysis. This method can be used, for example, for quality-testing microsphere solutions.
Observation of the Goos-Hänchen shift in monolayer WSe2 for an arbitrary linearly polarized incident light beam using weak measurement
Authors: Mandal Soumen , Sett Anuradha , Dey Dinesh Chandra , Das Akash , Pradhan Manik
Published: October 2024

We report, to our knowledge, the first experimental investigation of the spatial
Goos-Hänchen (GH) shift at an absorbing material interface comprised
of monolayer (ML) tungsten di-selenide (WSe2) on a SiO2/Si substrate under a total internal
reflection (TIR) condition. The critical angle for this design is
drastically shifted to 23.31°, compared to the glass-air interface,
which was at 41.3°. Utilizing the weak value amplification (WVA)
approach, the behavior of spatial GH shifts at this interface with
various regulating parameters such as angle of incidence, polarization
angle, and post-selection angle has systematically been studied. At
critical incidence, the greatest shift of approximately 116 µm
exceeds the maximum limit of beam shift w0/2, where w0 is the beam waist (180 µm). A
generic theoretical model compatible with polarization-dependent
studies is also established that has demonstrated excellent agreement
with experimental results. Moreover, this work established three
distinct features that allow us to readily tweak the value of spatial
GH shifts. The observation of a controllable spatial GH shift at the
ML WSe2-SiO2/Si configuration has potential
implications for optical sensors, optical differential operation, and
other photonic manipulations.
Cuff-less wearable biosensor in continuous noninvasive human radial artery pulse waveform and blood pressure measurement using self-mixing interferometry
Authors: Zhao Yu , Yao Xijie , Hu Jinguo , Zhang Zihua , Chen Tao
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose a compact, wearable biosensor for the noninvasive measurement of human radial artery pulse waveform curve (PWC) and blood pressure (BP). In this system, self-mixing interferometry (SMI) technology is employed to measure the weak arterial vascular deformation, enabling accurate PWC retrieval. Based on the reconstructed PWC features, BP values are precisely estimated by means of deep learning method. Here continuous wavelet transform (CWT), enabling visualization of the relationship between the SMI signal temporal frequency components and the PWC characteristics, is highlighted for PWC flipping points seeking and convolutional neural network (CNN) input parameter acquisition. For the first time, a novel deep learning network preprocessing method is proposed that allows direct feature extraction from the CWT scalogram of SMI signal without the complicated PWC reconstruction algorithm. The robustness and accuracy of our device are validated by a series of clinical measurements, mean absolute error (MAE) and standard deviation (STD) values are calculated and compared with the existing models. We approach minimal BP estimation results (MAE ± STD) of 1.41 ± 1.89 mmHg for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 1.78 ± 2.01 mmHg for diastolic blood pressure (DBP), respectively. The luxuriant novelties and remarkable performance clearly demonstrate our wearable sensor’s great potential in BP monitoring, and other clinical applications.
Ethical considerations for the use of brain–computer interfaces for cognitive enhancement
Authors: Gordon Emma C. , Seth Anil K.
Published: October 2024

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) enable direct communication between the brain and external computers, allowing processing of brain activity and the ability to control external devices. While often used for medical purposes, BCIs may also hold great promise for nonmedical purposes to unlock human neurocognitive potential. In this Essay, we discuss the prospects and challenges of using BCIs for cognitive enhancement, focusing specifically on invasive enhancement BCIs (eBCIs). We discuss the ethical, legal, and scientific implications of eBCIs, including issues related to privacy, autonomy, inequality, and the broader societal impact of cognitive enhancement technologies. We conclude that the development of eBCIs raises challenges far beyond practical pros and cons, prompting fundamental questions regarding the nature of conscious selfhood and about who—and what—we are, and ought, to be.
Metabolic modelling as a powerful tool to identify critical components of Pneumocystis growth medium
Authors: Nev Olga A. , Zamaraeva Elena , De Oliveira Romain , Ryzhkov Ilia , Duvenage Lucian , Abou-Jaoudé Wassim , Ouattara Djomangan Adama , Hoving Jennifer Claire , Gudelj Ivana , Brown Alistair J. P.
Published: October 2024

Establishing suitable in vitro culture conditions for microorganisms is crucial for dissecting their biology and empowering potential applications. However, a significant number of bacterial and fungal species, including Pneumocystis jirovecii, remain unculturable, hampering research efforts. P. jirovecii is a deadly pathogen of humans that causes life-threatening pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals and transplant patients. Despite the major impact of Pneumocystis on human health, limited progress has been made in dissecting the pathobiology of this fungus. This is largely due to the fact that its experimental dissection has been constrained by the inability to culture the organism in vitro. We present a comprehensive in silico genome-scale metabolic model of Pneumocystis growth and metabolism, to identify metabolic requirements and imbalances that hinder growth in vitro. We utilise recently published genome data and available information in the literature as well as bioinformatics and software tools to develop and validate the model. In addition, we employ relaxed Flux Balance Analysis and Reinforcement Learning approaches to make predictions regarding metabolic fluxes and to identify critical components of the Pneumocystis growth medium. Our findings offer insights into the biology of Pneumocystis and provide a novel strategy to overcome the longstanding challenge of culturing this pathogen in vitro.
Exploring the diagnostic potential of miRNA signatures in the Fabry disease serum: A comparative study of automated and manual sample isolations
Authors: Fang Josephine Y. , Ayyadurai Saravanan , Pybus Alyssa F. , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Qian Mark G.
Published: October 2024

Fabry disease, an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by galactosidase α (GLA) gene mutations, exhibits diverse clinical manifestations, and poses significant diagnostic challenges. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improved patient outcomes, pressing the need for reliable biomarkers. In this study, we aimed to identify miRNA candidates as potential biomarkers for Fabry disease using the KingFisher™ automated isolation method and NanoString nCounter® miRNA detection assay. Clinical serum samples were collected from both healthy subjects and Fabry disease patients. RNA extraction from the samples was performed using the KingFisher™ automated isolation method with the MagMAX mirVanaTM kit or manually using the Qiagen miRNeasy kit. The subsequent NanoString nCounter® miRNA detection assay showed consistent performance and no correlation between RNA input concentration and raw count, ensuring reliable and reproducible results. Interestingly, the detection range and highly differential miRNA between the control and disease groups were found to be distinct depending on the isolation method employed. Nevertheless, enrichment analysis of miRNA-targeting genes consistently revealed significant associations with angiogenesis pathways in both isolation methods. Additionally, our investigation into the impact of enzyme replacement therapy on miRNA expression indicated that some differential miRNAs may be sensitive to treatment. Our study provides valuable insights to identify miRNA biomarkers for Fabry disease. While different isolation methods yielded various detection ranges and highly differential miRNAs, the consistent association with angiogenesis pathways suggests their significance in disease progression. These findings lay the groundwork for further investigations and validation studies, ultimately leading to the development of non-invasive and reliable biomarkers to aid in early diagnosis and treatment monitoring for Fabry disease.
Subsistence and population development from the Middle Neolithic B (2800–2350 BCE) to the Late Neolithic (2350–1700 BCE) in Southern Scandinavia
Authors: Winther Johannsen Jens , Laabs Julian , Bunbury Magdalena M. E. , Mortensen Morten Fischer
Published: October 2024

The present study aims to explore the hypothesis of a link between a population increase derived from intensified food production and the development from the widespread cultural diversity of the Middle Neolithic B (MNB) to the cultural unity towards the end of the Late Neolithic (LN) in Southern Scandinavia. We explore this through quantitative modelling of radiocarbon dates, aoristic time series of material culture and palynological data. On this basis, we propose three main results that may explain the transformation: (1) A supra-regional population increase, culminating in the middle of the LN (c. 2100 BCE). (2) A depopulation in Western Jutland at the transition from the MNB to the LN (c. 2400–2300 BCE) counterbalanced by a population increase in North and East Denmark. (3) A population boom in Southern Sweden around 2250–2000 BCE, possibly leading to migrations towards west. Furthermore, we propose an overall decline in population in the final LN (c. 1850 BCE).
Modification of surface topographies to inhibit candida biofilm formation
Authors: Islayem Mohammad , Agha Abdulrahman , Al Bataineh Mohammad T. , Bataineh Mohammad Saleh , Alazzam Anas
Published: October 2024

The rise of infections associated with indwelling medical devices is a growing concern, often complicated by biofilm formation leading to persistent infections. This study investigates a novel approach to prevent Candida albicans attachment on the surface by altering surface topography. The research focuses on two distinct surface topographies: symmetry (squares) and non-symmetry (lines), created through a direct laser photolithography process on a Cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) surface. The wettability of these patterned surfaces was then examined immediately after fabrication and plasma treatment to mimic the sterilization process of indwelling devices through UV plasma. The results reveal directional wettability in the line pattern and size-dependent wettability in both square and line patterns. Candida albicans were cultured on these surfaces to assess the efficacy of the topography in preventing biofilm formation. The study demonstrates that symmetry and non-symmetry pattern topography inhibit biofilm formation, providing a promising strategy for mitigating Candida-associated infections on medical devices. The research sheds light on the potential of surface modification techniques to enhance the biocompatibility of medical devices and reduce the risk of biofilm-related infections.
Systematic review of thyroid function in NKX2-1-related disorders: Treatment and follow-up
Authors: Carmona-Hidalgo Beatriz , Herrera-Ramos Estefanía , Rodríguez-López Rocío , Nou-Fontanet Laia , C. Moreno José , Blasco-Amaro Juan Antonio , Léger Juliane , Ortigoza-Escobar Juan Darío ,   NKX2-1-Related Disorders Guideline Working Group
Published: October 2024

Background

NKX2-1, a crucial transcription factor in thyroid, lung, and brain development, is associated with rare disorders featuring thyroid dysfunction, neurological abnormalities, and respiratory symptoms. The primary challenge in managingNKX2-1-related disorders (NKX2-1-RD) is early diagnosis of the genetic defect and treating specific endocrine disorders. Levothyroxine (LT4) serves as the standard hypothyroidism treatment, with required dosages influenced by the severity of the individual’s disorder, which varies widely among affected individuals.

Objectives

This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness of LT4 treatment inNKX2-1-RD and explore optimal dosing strategies. The primary focus is on the challenges associated with the prompt diagnosis of genetic defects, rather than the established treatment protocols for individual endocrine failures.

Methods

Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, the review includes 42 studies involving 110 genetically confirmedNKX2-1-RD patients with hypothyroidism. The study investigates congenital hypothyroidism as the most prevalent endocrine alteration, along with gestational and overt hypothyroidism. The administration of LT4 treatment, dosages, and patient responses are analyzed.

Results

Among the findings, congenital hypothyroidism emerges as the predominant endocrine alteration in 41% of patients. Notably, LT4 treatment is administered in only 10% of cases, with a mean dose of 52 μg/day. The variability in initiation and dosage is likely influenced by the age at diagnosis. Positive responses, characterized by TSH adjustments within normal ranges, are observed in 11 monitored patients.

Conclusions

Early detection of congenital hypothyroidism is emphasized for timely LT4 initiation. Challenges in standardization are highlighted due to the variability in clinical manifestations and diagnostic procedures acrossNKX2-1-RD cases. While this review provides valuable insights into thyroid and pituitary disease treatment, limited details on LT4 treatment represent a significant study limitation. Key reporting points for future case studies are proposed to enhance the understanding and management ofNKX2-1-RD hypothyroidism.
Transcriptomic analysis of cellular senescence induced by ectopic expression of ATF6α in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Kim Ju Won , Bae So-Hyun , Moon Yesol , Kim Eun Kyung , Kim Yongjin , Park Yun Gyu , Han Mi-Ryung , Sohn Jeongwon
Published: October 2024

Background

The transcriptomic profile of cellular senescence is strongly associated with distinct cell types, the specific stressors triggering senescence, and temporal progression through senescence stages. This implies the potential necessity of conducting separate investigations for each cell type and a stressor inducing senescence. To elucidate the molecular mechanism that drives endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced cellular senescence in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, with a particular emphasis on the ATF6α branch of the unfolded protein response. We conducted transcriptomic analysis on MCF-7 cells by ectopic expression of ATF6α.

Methods

Transcriptomic sequencing was conducted on MCF-7 cells at 6 and 9 hours post senescence induction through ATF6α ectopic expression. Comprehensive analyses encompassing enriched functional annotation, canonical pathway analysis, gene network analysis, upstream regulator analysis and gene set enrichment analysis were performed on Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) at 6 and 9 hours as well as time-related DEGs. Regulators and their targets identified from the upstream regulator analysis were validated through RNA interference, and their impact on cellular senescence was assessed by senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining.

Results

ATF6α ectopic expression resulted in the identification of 12 and 79 DEGs at 6 and 9 hours, respectively, employing criteria of a false discovery rate < 0.05 and a lower fold change (FC) cutoff |log2FC| > 1. Various analyses highlighted the involvement of the UPR and/or ER Stress Pathway. Upstream regulator analysis of 9 hour-DEGs identified six regulators and eleven target genes associated with processes related to cytostasis and ‘cell viability and cell death of connective tissue cells.’ Validation confirmed the significance of MAP2K1/2, GPAT4, and PDGF-BB among the regulators and DDIT3, PPP1R15A, and IL6 among the targets.

Conclusion

Transcriptomic analyses and validation reveal the importance of the MAP2K1/2/GPAT4-DDIT3 pathway in driving cellular senescence following ATF6α ectopic expression in MCF-7 cells. This study contributes to our understanding of the initial molecular events underlying ER stress-induced cellular senescence in breast cancer cells, providing a foundation for exploring cell type- and stressor-specific responses in cellular senescence induction.
A comprehensive evaluation of an artificial intelligence based digital pathology to monitor large-scale deworming programs against soil-transmitted helminths: A study protocol
Authors: Ward Peter K. , Roose Sara , Ayana Mio , Broadfield Lindsay A. , Dahlberg Peter , Kabatereine Narcis , Kazienga Adama , Mekonnen Zeleke , Nabatte Betty , Stuyver Lieven , Velde Fiona Vande , Hoecke Sofie Van , Levecke Bruno
Published: October 2024

Background

Manual screening of a Kato-Katz (KK) thick stool smear remains the current standard to monitor the impact of large-scale deworming programs against soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). To improve this diagnostic standard, we recently designed an artificial intelligence based digital pathology system (AI-DP) for digital image capture and analysis of KK thick smears. Preliminary results of its diagnostic performance are encouraging, and a comprehensive evaluation of this technology as a cost-efficient end-to-end diagnostic to inform STH control programs against the target product profiles (TPP) of the World Health Organisation (WHO) is the next step for validation.

Methods

Here, we describe the study protocol for a comprehensive evaluation of the AI-DP based on its (i) diagnostic performance, (ii) repeatability/reproducibility, (iii) time-to-result, (iv) cost-efficiency to inform large-scale deworming programs, and (v) usability in both laboratory and field settings. For each of these five attributes, we designed separate experiments with sufficient power to verify the non-inferiority of the AI-DP (KK2.0) over the manual screening of the KK stool thick smears (KK1.0). These experiments will be conducted in two STH endemic countries with national deworming programs (Ethiopia and Uganda), focussing on school-age children only.

Discussion

This comprehensive study will provide the necessary data to make an evidence-based decision on whether the technology is indeed performant and a cost-efficient end-to-end diagnostic to inform large-scale deworming programs against STHs. Following the protocolized collection of high-quality data we will seek approval by WHO. Through the dissemination of our methodology and statistics, we hope to support additional developments in AI-DP technologies for other neglected tropical diseases in resource-limited settings.

Trial registration

The trial was registered on September 29, 2023 Clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT06055530).
Virulence, multiple drug resistance, and biofilm-formation in Salmonella species isolated from layer, broiler, and dual-purpose indigenous chickens
Authors: Dlamini Sicelo B. , Mlambo Victor , Mnisi Caven Mguvane , Ateba Collins Njie
Published: October 2024

Globally, the significant risk to food safety and public health posed by antimicrobial-resistant foodborne Salmonella pathogens is driven by the utilization of in-feed antibiotics, with variations in usage across poultry production systems. The current study investigated the occurrence of virulence, antimicrobial resistant profiles, and biofilm-forming potentials of Salmonella isolates sourced from different chicken types. A total of 75 cloacal faecal samples were collected using sterile swabs from layer, broiler, and indigenous chickens across 15 poultry farms (five farms per chicken type). The samples were analysed for the presence of Salmonella spp. using species-specific PCR analysis. Out of the 150 presumptive isolates, a large proportion (82; 55%) were confirmed as Salmonella species, comprising the serovars S. typhimurium (49%) and S. enteritidis (30%) while 21% were uncategorised. Based on phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility test, the Salmonella isolates were most often resistant to erythromycin (62%), tetracycline (59%), and trimethoprim (32%). The dominant multiple antibiotic resistance phenotypes were SXT-W-TE (16%), E-W-TE (10%), AML-E-TE (10%), E-SXT-W-TE (13%), and AMP-AML-E-SXT-W-TE (10%). Genotypic assessment of antibiotic resistance genes revealed that isolates harboured the ant (52%), tet (A) (46%), sui1 (13%), sui2 (14%), and tet (B) (9%) determinants. Major virulence genes comprising the invasion gene spiC, the SPI-3 encoded protein (misL) that is associated with the establishment of chronic infections and host specificity as well as the SPI-4 encoded orfL that facilitates adhesion, autotransportation and colonisation were detected in 26%, 16%, and 14% of the isolates respectively. There was no significant difference on the proportion of Salmonella species and the occurrence of virulence and antimicrobial resistance determinants among Salmonella isolates obtained from different chicken types. In addition, neither the chicken type nor incubation temperature influenced the potential of the Salmonella isolates to form biofilms, although a large proportion (62%) exhibited weak to strong biofilm-forming potentials. Moderate to high proportions of antimicrobial resistant pathogenic Salmonella serovars were detected in the study but these did not vary with poultry production systems.
Neighborhood socioeconomic factors and characteristics correlated with avoidable emergency department visits: A spatial analysis of a Canadian academic hospital
Authors: Strum Ryan P. , McLeod Brent , Costa Andrew P. , Mondoux Shawn
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The influence of neighborhood characteristics and socioeconomic status (SES) factors on avoidable emergency department (ED) utilization is not well understood in a universal healthcare system. We examined correlations between these factors and avoidable ED visits at a Canadian academic hospital.

Materials and methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using administrative ED data from a hospital in Hamilton, Canada from April 1, 2018 to August 31, 2023, and neighborhood data from the Statistics Canada Census of Population 2021. Avoidable visits were classified using the Emergency Department Avoidability Classification (EDAC), and mapped to neighborhoods using Canadian postal codes. SES was defined primarily based on education attained, household income, employment and housing security. The top 20 postal codes with the highest avoidable ED visits were categorized into quartiles and analyzed for trends using chi-squared tests of spatial association and Spearman rank correlations.

Results

A consistent ordinal trend across quartiles was observed throughout the study period, with quartile 1 representing the lowest avoidable ED visits and quartile 4 the highest. The quartiles were unevenly distributed spatially, though there was a significant association between close proximity to the ED and avoidable visits (X2 = 7.07, p <0.05). The quartile with the highest avoidable ED visits (quartile 4) had the greatest proportion of one-person households (35.5%) and one-parent families (37.8%), and showed statistically significant positive correlations with male sex, living alone and having an indigenous identity. Quartile 4 had the highest rates of individuals not completing high school (18.6%, p < 0.05), unemployment (13.7%), households spending greater than 30% of their income on shelter (26.5%), and households earning less than $30,000 annually (16.6%, compared to 8.7% in quartile 1 with the lowest avoidable ED visits).

Discussion

In a universal healthcare setting, lower SES neighborhoods were correlated with higher rates of avoidable ED visits. Targeted interventions that address social determinants of health disparities in neighborhoods with lower SES could reduce the burden of avoidable ED visits, and promote more equitable healthcare utilization.