bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of effective blended periconception lifestyle care in a tertiary hospital in the Netherlands: a cross-sectional study on determinants and patient satisfaction
Authors: van der Windt Melissa , Schoenmakers Sam , van der Kleij Rianne MJJ , van Rossem Lenie , Steegers-Theunissen Régine PM
Published: December 2022

Objective

To identify implementation determinants of blended periconception lifestyle care, and to evaluate patient satisfaction.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The outpatient clinic of the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Erasmus MC.

Participants

Implementation part: counsellors providing blended periconception lifestyle care. Patient satisfaction part: women who received blended periconception lifestyle care.

Methods

Blended periconception lifestyle care, including face-to-face counselling and 26 weeks of lifestyle coaching via the online platform ‘Smarter Pregnancy’, was implemented between June–December 2018. The Measurement Instrument for Determinants of Innovations questionnaire was used as input for the consolidated framework for implementation research to assess determinants of implementation. To evaluate patient satisfaction, patients receiving lifestyle care filled out an evaluation questionnaire, including questions on the needs for lifestyle counselling, information provision during counselling, and motivation and lifestyle change after counselling.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Identification of implementation determinants and the level of patient satisfaction.

Results

Facilitators were reported in the implementation domains ‘characteristics of the intervention’ and ‘characteristics of the individuals’. Barriers were in the implementation domains ‘inner setting’ and ‘implementation process’. Regarding patient satisfaction on nutrition counselling, 31% of the respondents wanted information prior to the counselling session, 22% received new information after consultation, 51% got motivated to change and 40% changed their nutritional behaviour.

Conclusions

A considerable number of patients improved lifestyle after counselling, although, a relatively small number wanted lifestyle counselling prior to consultation.

This study underlines the importance of implementation science and the information it provides for improving the implementation process.
Only eye study 3 (OnES 3): a qualitative study into how surgeons approach surgery in patients with only one seeing eye
Authors: Whyte Jonathan P , Lee Graham , Jones Lee , Shah Peter
Published: December 2022

Objective

Performing surgery on an ‘only eye’ patient is considered high stakes. The purpose of this study is to explore the process of only eye surgery from the perspective of ophthalmic surgeons and improve both patient and surgeon experience.

Design, setting and participants

A cohort of 76 Australian consultant ophthalmologists, divided into three focus groups, were recruited via online webinar to participate in a guided focus group discussion about only eye surgery. Qualitative data regarding participant experience of performing only eye surgery were collected in audio and text form. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify patterns in the data.

Main outcome measure

Identification of themes relevant to only eye surgery.

Results

Five overarching themes relevant to only eye surgery were identified: (1) differences in the surgical decision-making process; (2) differences in the approach to consent, (3) implementation of additional risk reduction strategies, (4) value of having colleagues to discuss and plan surgery with and (5) psychological challenges. A divergent theme was identified: (6) that all surgery, only eye or not, should be treated the same.

Conclusions

This study identifies challenges associated with clinical management of only eye patients across their surgical journey. A conceptual framework to guide surgeons when managing only eye patients is provided which has potential to promote a more unified approach to treating this high-stakes cohort.
Poverty, education and health insurance coverage among women of reproductive ages in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a cross-sectional and multilevel analysis
Authors: Tsala Dimbuene Zacharie , Muanza Nzuzi Raphaël , Nzita Kikhela Paul-Denis
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate inequalities of health insurance coverage (outcome) at subnational level, and the effects of education and poverty on the outcome.

Design

Secondary analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys. The outcome variable was health insurance ownership.

Setting

The Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Subjects

Women aged 15–49 years (n=18 827).

Results

Findings indicated significant spatial variations of the health insurance ownership which ranged from 1.2% in Bandundu and Kasaï Oriental to 15.5% in Kinshasa the Capital City. Furthermore, findings showed that an additional year of women education increased by 10% the chance of health insurance ownership (adjusted OR, AOR 1.098; 95% CI 1.065 to 1.132). Finally, living in better-off households increased by 150% the chance of owing a health insurance (AOR 2.501; 95% CI 1.620 to 3.860) compared with women living in poor households.

Conclusions

Given the low levels of health insurance coverage, the Democratic Republic of the Congo will not reach the Sustainable Development Goal 3, aimed at improving maternal and child health unless a serious programmatic health shift is undertaken in the country to tackle inequalities among poor and uneducated women via universal health coverage.
Examining interprofessional collaboration in oncogenetic service delivery models for hereditary cancers: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Espinoza Moya Maria Eugenia , Guertin Jason Robert , Dorval Michel , Lapointe Julie , Bouchard Karine , Nabi Hermann , Laberge Maude
Published: December 2022

Introduction

In a context of limited genetic specialists, collaborative models have been proposed to ensure timely access to high quality oncogenetic services for individuals with inherited cancer susceptibility. Yet, extensive variability in the terminology used and lack of a clear understanding of how interprofessional collaboration is operationalised and evaluated currently constrains the development of a robust evidence base on the value of different approaches used to optimise access to these services. To fill in this knowledge gap, this scoping review aims to systematically unpack the nature and extent of collaboration proposed by these interventions, and synthesise the evidence available on their implementation, effectiveness and economic impact.

Methods and analysis

Following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews, a comprehensive literature search will be conducted to identify peer-reviewed and grey literature on collaborative models used for adult patients with, or at increased risk of, hereditary breast, ovarian, colorectal and prostate cancers. An initial search was developed for Medline, Embase, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Cochrane and Web of Science on 13 June 2022 and will be complemented by searches in Google and relevant websites. Documents describing either the theory of change, planning, implementation and/or evaluation of these interventions will be considered for inclusion. Results will be summarised descriptively and used to compare relevant model characteristics and synthesise evidence available on their implementation, effectiveness and economic impact. This process is expected to guide the development of a definition and typology of collaborative models in oncogenetics that could help strengthen the knowledge base on these interventions. Moreover, because we will be mapping the existing evidence on collaborative models in oncogenetics, the proposed review will help us identify areas where additional research might be needed.

Ethics and dissemination

This research does not require ethics approval. Results from this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed articles and conferences.
Proof of concept study on coronary microvascular function in low flow low gradient aortic stenosis
Authors: Scarsini Roberto , Pighi Michele , Mainardi Andrea , Portolan Leonardo , Springhetti Paolo , Mammone Concetta , Della Mora Francesco , Fanti Diego , Tavella Domenico , Gottin Leonardo , Bergamini Corinna , Benfari Giovanni , Pesarini Gabriele , Ribichini Flavio Luciano
Published: December 2022

Objectives

We hypothesised that low flow low gradient aortic stenosis (LFLGAS) is associated with more severe coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) compared with normal-flow high-gradient aortic stenosis (NFHGAS) and that CMD is related to reduced cardiac performance.

Methods

Invasive CMD assessment was performed in 41 consecutive patients with isolated severe aortic stenosis with unobstructed coronary arteries undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR), resistive reserve ratio (RRR) and coronary flow reserve (CFR) were measured in the left anterior descending artery before and after TAVI. Speckle tracking echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac function at baseline and repeated at 6 months.

Results

IMR was significantly higher in patients with LFLGAS compared with patients with NFHGAS (24.1 (14.6 to 39.1) vs 12.8 (8.6 to 19.2), p=0.002), while RRR was significantly lower (1.4 (1.1 to 2.1) vs 2.6 (1.5 to 3.3), p=0.020). No significant differences were observed in CFR between the two groups. High IMR was associated with low stroke volume index, low cardiac output and reduced peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS). TAVI determined no significant variation in microvascular function (IMR: 16.0 (10.4 to 26.1) vs 16.6 (10.2 to 25.6), p=0.403) and in PALS (15.9 (9.9 to 26.5) vs 20.1 (12.3 to 26.7), p=0.222). Conversely, left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain increased after TAVI (−13.2 (8.4 to 16.6) vs −15.1 (9.4 to 17.8), p=0.047). In LFLGAS, LV systolic function recovered after TAVI in patients with preserved microvascular function but not in patients with CMD.

Conclusions

CMD is more severe in patients with LFLGAS compared with NFHGAS and is associated with low-flow state, left atrial dysfunction and reduced cardiac performance.
A formula of Tietz potential parameters and applying for scandium iodine, nitrogen iodine, rubidium hydride, nitrogen, and carbon monoxide molecules
Authors: Al-Raeei Marwan
Published: December 2022

Tietz potential has several applications in the study of diatomic molecules in the discussion of vibrational states, especially in the quantum mechanics studies of the oscillations. Tietz potential has multiple forms; one of the Tietz potential forms has four parameters of the spectroscopic fitting. The spectroscopic fitting parameters of the Tietz potential are the Tietz potential equilibrium bond length, the Tietz potential depth, the width of the potential, and the parameter that controls the values as ratio of the depth of the well. This work focuses on finding a formula between the four parameters of the spectroscopic fitting employing some of principles of the statistical mechanics. Based on the derived formula, we discuss the relationship of the equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential interaction as a function to the absolute temperature. Based on this discussion, the equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential interaction varies slowly with absolute temperature. Besides, equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential varies linearly with the radius of the particles of the system. Also, the equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential varies with the Tietz potential depth, the width parameter of Tietz potential, and the fourth parameter of the Tietz potential. The formula of the Tietz interaction is applied to five different dimers or molecules. The five considered molecules are nitrogen dimer, scandium iodine dimer, nitrogen iodine dimer, rubidium hydride dimer, and carbon monoxide molecule. Generally, it is found that the equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential interaction values varies from 1 to 5 Å for different absolute temperature intervals. Besides, it is found that the scandium iodine dimer has the largest value of the equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential interaction, while carbon monoxide dimer has the lowest value of the equilibrium bond length of Tietz potential interaction. Generally, the derived formula of the four parameters of the spectroscopic fitting of Tietz potential can be applied for multiple molecules and dimers.
Band Structure and Quantum Conductance of Surface-unsaturated and Hydrogenated Sb and Bi Monolayer Nanoribbons
Authors: Gong Qi , Zhang Guiling
Published: December 2022

Electronic structure and quantum conductance of surface-unsaturated and hydrogenated Sb and Bi monolayer nanoribbons are theoretically investigated by first-principles calculations combined with non-equilibrium Green’s function method. Band structures, electronic transmission spectra and current-voltage curves of these Sb and Bi monolayer derived nanoribbons along zigzag crystallographic orientations are calculated to explore their potential applications in topological nanoelectronics. It is verified that extremely high conductivity under low bias voltage is acquired from the scattering-forbidden topological edge-states of these nanoribbons, as indicated by Dirac-point-like energy dispersion of band-edges near Fermi level, which also provides an evident negative differential conductance under 0.2 ∼ 0.3 V voltage bias when the ballistic conductance peak at Fermi level shifting out of bias window. The present study suggests Sb and Bi monolayers after acquiring chemical stability by hydrogenation are prospective candidates to be applied for ultrahigh power and zero-loss nanotransistors.
Proteolipid protein 1 is involved in the regulation of intestinal motility and barrier function in the mouse
Authors: Woods Crystal , Flockton Amanda R. , Wallace Laurie E. , Keenan Catherine M. , Macklin Wendy B. , Sharkey Keith A. , Belkind-Gerson Jaime
Published: December 2022

Here, we describe that Plp1 regulates gut motility and barrier function. The functional effects of Plp1 eradication are only seen in old mice, not young. The effects of Plp1 appear to be mediated through the Erk1/2 pathway.
Isolation and Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria from Fermented Milk Produced in Jimma Town, Southwest Ethiopia, and Evaluation of their Antimicrobial Activity against Selected Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Goa Tigistu , Beyene Getenet , Mekonnen Mekidim , Gorems Kasahun
Published: December 2022

Background. Raw milk is usually contaminated with pathogenic bacteria. Fermentation of milk is important to inhibit the growth of contaminants, spoilage, and pathogenic bacteria. The objective of this study was to isolate lactic acid bacteria from fermented milk and evaluate their antimicrobial activity against selected pathogenic bacteria. Methods. Laboratory-based experimental study design was conducted from May-July, 2021.Three samples of Ergo (each of 250 ml) were collected from Jimma town. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates were identified through integrated phenotypic techniques. Further identification was conducted through using API 50 CHL strips. Antimicrobial activities (AMAs) of LAB isolates were tested against clinical isolates of E. coli, S. aureus, and Salmonella spp. using agar well diffusion method. The data were analyzed by using SPSS software version 21 and Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. Tables and figures were applied to describe characteristics of data. Results. Twelve LAB isolates were identified. Those LAB isolates include six Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus (2), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (1), Limosilactobacillus fermentum (2), and Leuconostoc lactis (1). Based on primary screening of LAB, isolates/strains ESCIa, ESBIa, and ESCIc show strong AMA against S. aureus, E. coli, and Salmonella spp. The CFS of ESCIc showed the highest AMA against S. aureus and Salmonella spp. with a zone of inhibition of

14.12
±
1.6
 
mm

and

12.9
±
3.6
 
mm

, respectively, while ESBIa showed the highest AMA against E. coli with a zone of inhibition of

13.5
±
2.1
 
mm

. The CFSs of selected LAB strains were heat tolerant at varying temperatures up to 100°C. The CFSs of selected LAB strains were inactivated by proteinase enzymes, but they are not inactivated with amylase enzymes. Conclusions and Recommendation. All 12 LAB isolates exhibited antimicrobial activity against tested bacterial strains. Lactobacillus isolates showed the highest antagonistic activity on tested indicator strains. Thus, they are possible alternatives to antibiotics in the era of antimicrobial resistance. S. aureus was the most sensitive to antimicrobial effects/agents of selected LAB isolates. Consumption of fermented foods is advisable since they support the growth of healthy GIT microbiota. Fermentation serves as biopreservation of food. However, analysis of probiotic features and in vivo probiotic effects of those LAB isolates will be subject of future research/study.
A New Credit and Loan Lending Strategy and Credit in Banking Systems: An Evolutionary Game Theory Approach
Authors: Lashgari Zohreh , Bahiraie Alireza , Eshaghi Gordji Madjid
Published: December 2022

In this paper, authors offer one novel mathematical model of credit lending to customers based on evolutionary game theory, and the model presents an efficient and realistic approach. The purpose of the article is to examine the evolutionary game between banks and customers for granting facilities and credit. Authors assumed that customers are divided into two types. The first type of customers includes individuals or small and medium enterprises (SME), applying for microloans from the bank. The second type of customers includes corporate banking or large enterprises, applying for large loans from the bank. The relationship between the bank and the customers is a double-sided problem. Banks and customers may trust each other or want to behave opportunistically. The results show that the game has two equilibriums, and the optimal equilibrium, which is the best-case scenario, occurs when customers and bank players tending to keep “honest” and to “credit,” respectively. Authors used the evolutionary stable strategy to express the parameters that affect these interactions, and by adjusting some of these parameters, authors move the equilibrium towards the optimal solution of the game. Also, by adjusting these parameters, banks can gain more profitability.
Association of Abnormal Renal Profiles with Subretinal Fluid in Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Hao Xiaofeng , Wang Linan , Xie Like
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To investigate the risk factors for subretinal fluid (SRF) in diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods. We reviewed the records of 66 patients with DME. Systemic parameters, including hypertension, glycosylated hemoglobin, serum fasting glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and diabetic kidney disease, were evaluated. Renal parameters for diabetic kidney disease included serum albumin, serum creatinine, albuminuria, and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Ocular factors included visual acuity and diabetic retinopathy, and the following parameters are evaluated through optical coherence tomography examination: disorganization of the retinal inner layers, loss of ellipsoid zone, central subretinal fluid thickness, central macular thickness, and presence of SRF. Results. Higher albuminuria (odds ratio, 3.431; 95% confidence interval, 1.039–11.334;

P
=
0.043

) was associated with the presence of SRF in patients with DME. Lower serum albumin levels (beta = −14.028, se = 6.646,

P
=
0.044

) were associated with increased SRF thickness. Conclusions. Poor kidney function was associated with the presence of SRF in DME. Screening for SRF in DME in patients with higher albuminuria and lower serum albumin levels should be routinely performed.
Study on the Mechanism of Radix Astragali against Renal Aging Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Zhang Ziyuan , Fang Jingai , Sun Dalin , Zheng Yaqin , Liu Xinhui , Li Hui , Hu Yaling , Liu Yuxiang , Zhang Mingyu , Liu Wenyuan , Zhang Xiaodong , Liu Xuejun
Published: December 2022

Radix Astragali is widely used in the traditional Chinese medicine with the effect of antiaging. The purpose of this study is to explore the main active ingredients and targets of Radix Astragali against renal aging by network pharmacology and further to verify the mechanism of the main active ingredients in vitro. TCMSP, ETCM, and TCMID databases were used to screen active ingredients of Radix Astragali. Targets of active ingredients were predicted using BATMAN-TCM and cross validated using kidney aging-related genes obtained from GeneCards and NCBI database. Pathways enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis were performed on core targets. Additionally, a pharmacological network was constructed based on the active ingredients-targets-pathways. HK-2 cell was treated with D-galactose to generate a cell model of senescence. CCK-8 and β-galactosidase were used to detect the effect of Radix Astragali active components on cell proliferation and aging. ELISA was used to detect the expression of senescence-associated secreted protein (TGF-β and IL-6) in the cell culture supernatant. Western blot was used to detect the expression of key proteins in the SIRT1/

p
53

pathway. Five active ingredients (Astragaloside I, II, III, IV and choline) were identified from Radix Astragali, and all these active ingredients target a total of 128 genes. Enrichment analysis showed these genes were implicated in 153 KEGG pathways, including the

p
53

, FoxO, and AMPK pathway. 117 proteins and 572 interactions were found in PPI network. TP53 and SIRT1 were two hub genes in PPI network, which interacted with each other. The pharmacological network showed that the five main active ingredients target on some coincident genes, including TP53 and SIRT1. These targeted genes were involved in the p53, FoxO, and AMPK pathway. Proliferation of HK-2 cells was increased by Astragaloside IV treatment compared with that of the D-Gal treatment group. However, the proliferation of the SA-β-gal positive cells were inhibited. The expression of TGF-β and IL-6 in the D-Gal group was higher than that in the normal group, and the treatment of Astragaloside IV could significantly reduce the expression of TGF-β and IL-6. The expression of SIRT1 in the Astragaloside IV group was higher than that in the D-Gal group. However, the expression of

p
53

and

p
21

was less in the Astragaloside IV group than that in the D-Gal group. This study suggested that Astragaloside IV is an important active ingredient of Radix Astragali in the treatment of kidney aging via the SITR1-

p
53

pathway.
Double-Connected Intuitionistic Space in Double Intuitionistic Topological Spaces
Authors: Ghassob Raoof Asmaa , Jassim Taha H. , Amare Ngiste
Published: December 2022

The structures of the families of fuzzy sets that arise out of various notions of openness and closeness in a double fuzzy topological space are explored. This research is to present a new portion of space (Double-connected intuitionistic space) in Double intuitionistic topological spaces. Through these concepts, we advance some of their characteristics and relate to themselves.
OAB-YOLOv5: One-Anchor-Based YOLOv5 for Rotated Object Detection in Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Liu Jie , Qiao Wensheng , Xiong Zhaolong
Published: December 2022

Remote sensing images are widely distributed, small in object size, and complex in background, resulting in low accuracy and slow speed of remote sensing image detection. Existing remote sensing object detection is generally based on the detector with anchors. With the proposal of a feature pyramid network (FPN) and focal loss, an anchorless detector emerges, however, the accuracy of anchorless detection is often low. First, this study analyzes the differences and characteristics of the intersection of union (IoU) and shape matchings based on anchors in mainstream algorithms and indicates that in dense or complex scenes, some labels are not easily assigned to positive samples, which leads to detection failure. Subsequently, we proposean one-anchor-based (OAB) object detection algorithm based on the idea of central point sampling in the anchor-free detector. The positive samples and negative samples are defined according to the central point sampling and distance constraint, and an anchor box is preset for each positive sample to accelerate its convergence. It reduces the complexity of the anchor-based detector, improves the inference speed, and reduces the setting of hyperparameters in the traditional matching strategy, rendering the model more flexible. Finally, in order to suppress background noise in remote sensing images, the vision transformer (ViT) is adopted to connect the neck and head, making it easier for the network to pay attention to key information. Thus, it is not easy to lose in the training process. Experiments on challenging public dataset—DOTA dataset- verified the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. The experimental results show that the mAP of the optimized OAB-YOLOv5 method is improved by 2.79%, the number of parameters is reduced by 13.2%, and the inference time is reduced by 11% compared with the YOLOv5 baseline.
Genetic Predictors for Fecal Propionate and Butyrate-Producing Microbiome Pathway Are Not Associated with Colorectal Cancer Risk: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Lu Yujia , Zhao Yu Chen , Chang-Claude Jenny , Gruber Stephen B. , Gsur Andrea , Offit Kenneth , Vodickova Ludmila , Woods Michael O. , Nguyen Long H. , Wade Kaitlin H. , Carreras-Torres Robert , Moreno Victor , Buchanan Daniel D. , Cotterchio Michelle , Chan Andrew T. , Phipps Amanda I. , Peters Ulrike , Song Mingyang
Published: December 2022

Background:

Mechanistic data indicate the benefit of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced by gut microbial fermentation of fiber on colorectal cancer, but direct epidemiologic evidence is limited. A recent study identified SNPs for two SCFA traits (fecal propionate and butyrate-producing microbiome pathway PWY-5022) in Europeans and showed metabolic benefits.

Methods:

We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis of the genetic instruments for the two SCFA traits (three SNPs for fecal propionate and nine for PWY-5022) in relation to colorectal cancer risk in three large European genetic consortia of 58,131 colorectal cancer cases and 67,347 controls. We estimated the risk of overall colorectal cancer and conducted subgroup analyses by sex, age, and anatomic subsites of colorectal cancer.

Results:

We did not observe strong evidence for an association of the genetic predictors for fecal propionate levels and the abundance of PWY-5022 with the risk of overall colorectal cancer, colorectal cancer by sex, or early-onset colorectal cancer (diagnosed at <50 years), with no evidence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy. When assessed by tumor subsites, we found weak evidence for an association between PWY-5022 and risk of rectal cancer (OR per 1-SD, 0.95; 95% confidence intervals, 0.91–0.99; P = 0.03) but it did not surpass multiple testing of subgroup analysis.

Conclusions:

Genetic instruments for fecal propionate levels and the abundance of PWY-5022 were not associated with colorectal cancer risk.

Impact:

Fecal propionate and PWY-5022 may not have a substantial influence on colorectal cancer risk. Future research is warranted to comprehensively investigate the effects of SCFA-producing bacteria and SCFAs on colorectal cancer risk.
Self-Renewing CD8+ T-cell Abundance in Blood Associates with Response to Immunotherapy
Authors: Maniar Rohan , Wang Peter H. , Washburn Robert S. , Kratchmarov Radomir , Coley Shana M. , Saqi Anjali , Pan Samuel S. , Hu Jianhua , Shu Catherine A. , Rizvi Naiyer A. , Henick Brian S. , Reiner Steven L.
Published: December 2022

Treatment with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) often fails to elicit durable antitumor immunity. Recent studies suggest that ICB does not restore potency to terminally dysfunctional T cells, but instead drives proliferation and differentiation of self-renewing progenitor T cells into fresh, effector-like T cells. Antitumor immunity catalyzed by ICB is characterized by mobilization of antitumor T cells in systemic circulation and tumor. To address whether abundance of self-renewing T cells in blood is associated with immunotherapy response, we used flow cytometry of peripheral blood from a cohort of patients with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with ICB. At baseline, expression of T-cell factor 1 (TCF1), a marker of self-renewing T cells, was detected at higher frequency in effector-memory (CCR7–) CD8+ T cells from patients who experienced durable clinical benefit compared to those with primary resistance to ICB. On-treatment blood samples from patients benefiting from ICB also exhibited a greater frequency of TCF1+CCR7–CD8+ T cells and higher proportions of TCF1 expression in treatment-expanded PD-1+CCR7–CD8+ T cells. The observed correlation of TCF1 frequency in CCR7–CD8+ T cells and response to ICB suggests that broader examination of self-renewing T-cell abundance in blood will determine its potential as a noninvasive, predictive biomarker of response and resistance to immunotherapy.
Diagnosis of Metastatic Carcinoma Using Body Cavity Fluid Specimens: A Comparison of Diagnostic Panels
Authors: Sridakhun Natruja , Intarawichian Piyapharom , Thanee Malinee , Watcharadetwittaya Sasithorn
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Body cavity effusions are routinely used as cytologic specimens. The distinction between metastatic carcinoma, mesothelioma, and reactive mesothelial cells remains a major challenge. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a supplemental method that can aid in diagnosis and often involves many markers as part of an IHC panel. Several immunohistochemical markers are now widely used. This study aims to determine the optimal immunomarkers and IHC panels to differentiate reactive mesothelial cells from metastatic cancer in body cavity fluid samples. Methods: IHC was performed for claudin-4, MOC-31, Ber-Ep4, D2-40, and calretinin on sections derived from 152 cellblocks containing effusions. The samples consisted of 16 (10.53%) benign and 136 (89.47%) malignant tumors, including 87 (63.97%) lung cancers, nine (6.62%) breast cancers, 11 (8.09%) gynecologic cancers, seven (5.15%) pancreaticobiliary cancers, and 22 (16.17%) unspecified primary malignancies. Results: Claudin-4, MOC-31, Ber-EP4, D2-40, and calretinin demonstrated sensitivities of 91.18%, 91.91%, 55.88%, 90.44%, and 98.53%, respectively. The corresponding specificities were 100.00%, 100.00%, 100.00%, 93.75%, and 100.00%. The sensitivity and specificity were both 100% when claudin-4 or MOC-31 was combined with calretinin. The combination of four markers as an IHC panel (claudin-4, MOC-31, calretinin, and D2-40) had a sensitivity of 97.79% and a specificity of 100.00%. Conclusion: Claudin-4 and MOC-31 both demonstrated significant diagnostic value in distinguishing metastatic epithelial carcinoma from reactive mesothelium. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of these two markers, one of which is an epithelial marker and one of which is a mesothelial marker, reached 100%. Therefore, a combination of these two markers may be appropriate.
The Friar with the Crutch: A Pictorial Hint of the Stroke Suffered by Bernardino da Fossa (1420–1503)
Authors: Ventura Luca
Published: December 2022

Background: Works of art may serve as a source of evidence of diseases and help to better understand their natural history. Summary: Bernardino da Fossa was a 15th-century Italian Franciscan friar who wrote sermons and historical works. He described the events of the Observance Reformation movement since its dawn, but the last chapter is unexplainably interrupted. This has been considered suggestive for an acute and disabling illness. A painting dating back 12 years after his death depicts Bernardino holding a crutch with his left arm. This may represent an important clue to establish a gait disturbance, whereas the permanent interruption in drafting his writing may be ascribed to a serious writing impairment. Key Messages: The historical detail of the writing suspension and the crutch in this painting represent important hints of the stroke suffered by Bernardino da Fossa.
Risk Factors and Causes of Ischemic Stroke in 1322 Young Adults
Authors: Ekker Merel S. , Verhoeven Jamie I. , Schellekens Mijntje M.I. , Boot Esther M. , van Alebeek Mayte E. , Brouwers Paul J.A.M. , Arntz Renate M. , van Dijk Gert W. , Gons Rob A.R. , van Uden Inge W.M. , den Heijer Tom , de Kort Paul L.M. , de Laat Karlijn F. , van Norden Anouk G.W. , Vermeer Sarah E. , van Zagten Marian S.G. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , Wermer Marieke J.H. , Nederkoorn Paul J. , Zonneveld Thomas P. , Kerkhoff Henk , Rooyer Fergus A. , van Rooij Frank G. , van den Wijngaard Ido R. , Klijn Catharina J.M. , Tuladhar Anil M. , de Leeuw Frank-Erik
Published: December 2022

Background:

Identification of risk factors and causes of stroke is key to optimize treatment and prevent recurrence. Up to one-third of young patients with stroke have a cryptogenic stroke according to current classification systems (Trial of ORG 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment [TOAST] and atherosclerosis, small vessel disease, cardiac pathology, other causes, dissection [ASCOD]). The aim was to identify risk factors and leads for (new) causes of cryptogenic ischemic stroke in young adults, using the pediatric classification system from the IPSS study (International Pediatric Stroke Study).

Methods:

This is a multicenter prospective cohort study conducted in 17 hospitals in the Netherlands, consisting of 1322 patients aged 18 to 49 years with first-ever, imaging confirmed, ischemic stroke between 2013 and 2021. The main outcome was distribution of risk factors according to IPSS classification in patients with cryptogenic and noncryptogenic stroke according to the TOAST and ASCOD classification.

Results:

The median age was 44.2 years, and 697 (52.7%) were men. Of these 1322 patients, 333 (25.2%) had a cryptogenic stroke according to the TOAST classification. Additional classification using the ASCOD criteria reduced the number patients with cryptogenic stroke from 333 to 260 (19.7%). When risk factors according to the IPSS were taken into account, the number of patients with no potential cause or risk factor for stroke reduced to 10 (0.8%).

Conclusions:

Among young adults aged 18 to 49 years with a cryptogenic ischemic stroke according to the TOAST classification, risk factors for stroke are highly prevalent. Using a pediatric classification system provides new leads for the possible causes in cryptogenic stroke, and could potentially lead to more tailored treatment for young individuals with stroke.
Predicting longitudinal brain atrophy in Parkinson’s disease using a Susceptible-Infected-Removed agent-based model
Authors: Abdelgawad Alaa , Rahayel Shady , Zheng Ying-Qiu , Tremblay Christina , Vo Andrew , Misic Bratislav , Dagher Alain
Published: December 2022

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by accumulation of abnormal isoforms of alpha-synuclein. Alpha-synuclein is proposed to act as a prion in Parkinson’s disease: In its misfolded pathologic state, it favors the misfolding of normal alpha-synuclein molecules, spreads trans-neuronally, and causes neuronal damage as it accumulates. This theory remains controversial. We have previously developed a Susceptible-Infected-Removed (SIR) computational model that simulates the templating, propagation, and toxicity of alpha-synuclein molecules in the brain. In this study, we test this model with longitudinal MRI collected over 4 years from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (1,068 T1 MRI scans, 790 Parkinson’s disease scans, and 278 matched control scans). We find that brain deformation progresses in subcortical and cortical regions. The SIR model recapitulates the spatiotemporal distribution of brain atrophy observed in Parkinson’s disease. We show that connectome topology and geometry significantly contribute to model fit. We also show that the spatial expression of two genes implicated in alpha-synuclein synthesis and clearance, SNCA and GBA, also influences the atrophy pattern. We conclude that the progression of atrophy in Parkinson’s disease is consistent with the prion-like hypothesis and that the SIR model is a promising tool to investigate multifactorial neurodegenerative diseases over time.
The Effect of Asset Degradation on Trust in Swarms: A Reexamination of System-Wide Trust in Human-Swarm Interaction
Authors: Capiola August , Hamdan Izz aldin , Lyons Joseph B. , Lewis Michael , Alarcon Gene M. , Sycara Katia
Published: December 2022

Objective

The effects of asset degradation on trust in human-swarm interaction were investigated through the lens of system-wide trust theory.

Background

Researchers have begun investigating contextual features that shape human interactions with robotic swarms—systems comprising assets that coordinate behavior based on their nearest neighbors. Recent work has begun investigating how human trust toward swarms is affected by asset degradation through the lens of system-wide trust theory, but these studies have been marked by several limitations.

Method

In an online study, the current work manipulated asset degradation and measured trust-relevant criteria in a within-subjects design and addressed the limitations of past work.

Results

Controlling for swarm performance (i.e., target acquisition), asset degradation and trust (i.e., reliance intentions) in swarms were negatively related. In addition, as degradation increased, perceptions of swarm cohesion, obstacle avoidance, target acquisition, and terrain exploration efficiency decreased, the latter two of which (coupled with the reliance intentions criterion) support the tenets of system-wide trust theory as well as replicate and extend past work on the effects of asset degradation on trust in swarms.

Conclusion

Human-swarm interaction is a context in which system-wide trust is relevant, and future work ought to investigate how to calibrate human trust toward swarm systems.

Applications

Based on these findings, design professionals should prioritize ways to depict swarm performance and system health such that humans do not abandon trust in systems that are still functional yet not over-trust those systems which are indeed performing poorly.
The association of physical multimorbidity with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in England: A mediation analysis of influential factors
Authors: Smith Lee , Shin Jae Il , Lee San , Oh Jae Won , López Sánchez Guillermo F , Kostev Karel , Jacob Louis , Tully Mark A. , Schuch Felipe , McDermott Daragh T. , Pizzol Damiano , Veronese Nicola , Song Junmin , Soysal Pinar , Koyanagi Ai
Published: December 2022

Background:

Suicide is one of the most important causes of deaths in the United Kingdom, and the numbers are currently increasing.

Aim:

There are numerous identified determinants of suicidality, and physical multimorbidity is potentially important but is currently understudied. Thus, this study aims to investigate the association of physical multimorbidity with suicidality.

Methods:

Cross-sectional data from the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2007, which was conducted in England between October 2006 and December 2007 by the National Center for Social Research and Leicester University were analyzed. Respondents were asked about 20 physical health conditions, and suicidal ideation and suicide attempts were assessed.

Results:

Out of 7,403 individuals aged 16 years or over, the prevalence of physical multimorbidity, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts were 35.1%, 4.3%, and 0.7%, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, compared to no physical conditions, 1, 2, 3, and ⩾4 conditions were associated with significant 1.79 (95% CI [1.25, 2.57]), 2.39 (95% CI [1.63, 3.51]), 2.88 (95% CI [1.83, 4.55]), and 6.29 (95% CI [4.12, 9.61]) times higher odds for suicidal ideation. Mediation analysis showed that cognitive problems (mediated percentage 39.2%) and disability (37.5%) explained the largest proportion between multimorbidity and suicidal ideation. Pain (38.0%) and cognitive problems (30.7%) explained the largest proportion between multimorbidity and suicide attempts.

Conclusion:

In this large sample of UK adults, physical multimorbidity was associated with significantly higher odds for suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Moreover, several potential mediators were identified, and these may serve as future targets for interventions that aim to prevent suicidality among people with physical multimorbidity.
Railroad investment and regional disparity: Public expenditure on transport infrastructure in France, 1837–57
Authors: Zhu Yuqing
Published: December 2022

Regional equality was an important issue in French public investment in railroads from 1837, when the French State first intervened financially to facilitate railroad construction to 1857, when the main railroads were completed. Based on an analysis of parliamentary debates, this article aims to examine the weight of regional balancing in the planning of main railroads and their financial model. Using documents from various Chambers of commerce, we then examine the effect of regional equality on local stakeholders’ opinion about the best financing model to adopt for the railroad plan. Finally, we will analyse the data from budgets of the Ministry of Public Works to trace the evolution of regional disparities in public spending from 1837 to 1857.
Validity and Reliability of the Turkish Version of the Death Literacy Index
Authors: Semerci Vahide , Sönmez Sari Ebru , Seven Ahmet
Published: December 2022

Death literacy is defined as a set of knowledge and skills that make it possible to gain access to, understand, and act upon end-of-life and death care options. This study was conducted to test the validity and reliability of the 29-item original version of the Death Literacy Index (DLI) in Turkish society. The scale was applied on a sample of 436 Turkish adults determined using the snowball sampling method. Explanatory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed. The scale consisted of 6 subscales. The test-retest analysis of this study showed a strong and highly significant positive correlation between overall DLI (.98) and its subscales (.73–.98). The total Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of DLI was found to be .90. It was observed that the Turkish version of DLI was a valid and reliable tool and suitable for use in Turkish society.
Race, Cultural Capital, and School Achievement in Race-Blind France
Authors: Planson Sonia
Published: December 2022

Scholarship examining the role of cultural capital in school outcomes in relation to race and ethnicity in the French context is scarce. This article seeks to test how various potential forms of cultural capital, beyond the most traditional ones, are associated with school grades relationally with French students’ backgrounds. Using Ministry of Education data to perform regression analyses on old and new forms of cultural capital, I find some evidence of differences in their association with grades. Reading, internet, documentaries, sport, and music practice are all associated with higher school grades, but less so for Haiti and overseas- origin children for four practices out of five. This study contributes to research on ethnic/racial inequalities in the French school system and to broader conversations around the contemporary redefinition of cultural capital by showing that racial inequalities can be reproduced in schools through a wide array of cultural practices.
Analysis of Noise Exposure Level and Influencing Factors of Small and Micro-Scale Enterprises in Beijing, China
Authors: Aihua Li , Yan Ye , Zhiqiang Cao , Li Hu , Guixin Yu , Zihuan Wang , Dan Liu
Published: December 2022

Understand the noise exposure level and influencing factors of small and micro-scale enterprises in Beijing, and support the formulation of noise prevention and control policies. Noise hazards in small- and micro-scale enterprises were monitored from May to December 2021 using a combination of questionnaire survey and on-site noise monitoring. The survey included questions on the basic characteristics of the enterprise, the situation of noise protection facilities, and protective equipment. We calculated the equivalent to the sound level of 8 h per day ( LEX, 8h) or the equivalent of the sound level of 40 h per week ( LEX,w) and the exceeding rate. Unconditional logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. We recruited 194 enterprises in our study, including 145 small- and 49 micro-scale enterprises. Overall, 9.9% of the noise points exceeded the Chinese national standard, which was 85 dB(A). The detected noise of micro-enterprises significantly ( P < .001) exceeded that of small enterprises. This is the first study to examine noise hazards of small and micro-scale enterprises in Beijing in recent years. Our results showed noise hazard prevention in Beijing is grim. It is suggested that the government should strengthen supervision, allocate responsibility to the employer, and guide them to establish and improve the management system for controlling noise hazards, to effectively reduce its impact on the health of workers.
Options to Extend Medicare’s Trust Fund: Lessons From Japan’s Statutory Health Insurance
Authors: Maeda Jared Lane K.
Published: December 2022

Medicare’s Hospital Trust Fund is projected to become insolvent sometime during 2028 and there will be insufficient funds to cover the costs of beneficiaries’ care if reforms are not made before then. Many options have been proposed on ways to extend the trust fund’s solvency. Some proposals focus on controlling costs and other proposals include options for raising revenues. A fresh perspective on this policy dilemma may arise by considering Japan’s statutory health insurance (SHI) and its financing mechanisms. Japan could be a useful model because it has an older population and it is facing similar fiscal challenges before Medicare. Japan could offer some useful perspectives from its cost containment efforts to extend Medicare’s solvency.
Web-Based Interventions for Individuals who Committed Sexual Offenses Against Children: Development, Evaluation, and Implementation
Authors: Schröder Sonja , Bauer Louisa , Müller Jürgen L. , Briken Peer , Fromberger Peter , Tozdan Safiye
Published: December 2022

Web-based interventions (WBIs) have become increasingly important in mental health treatment. At the same time, WBIs for individuals who committed sexual offenses against children (ICSOC) are increasingly being developed and implemented. Despite this trend, it is unclear which treatment components make WBIs for ICSOC effective and what needs to be considered for successful implementation. Moreover, only few evaluation studies are available. The goal of this viewpoint paper, that includes a comprehensive literature review, is to provide criteria for the development, evaluation, and implementation of WBIs for ICSOC or for individuals who feel at risk of committing sexual offenses against children. The criteria are drawn from guidelines for WBIs in general psychiatry, in forensic psychiatry, and for ICSOC. For the latter, an overview of current WBIs for ICSOC and for individuals who feel at risk of committing sexual offenses against children will be provided.