bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uranium in Waters of The Southern Colorado Plateau: Implications for the Navajo Nation
Authors: Webster Kevin D , Locey Kenneth J , Pelletier Jon D , Credo Jonathan , Ingram Jani C , Klein Barbara A
Published: September 2022

Uranium (U) is enriched in the waters of the southern Colorado Plateau, including waters of the Navajo Nation. The region has naturally occurring U in rocks and a history of U mining which may increase U concentrations in waters. Despite prior research into the concentration of U in the waters of the Navajo Nation, a framework has not been established to understand the variation of U in the region’s groundwater. To this end, we examined data from six studies to establish where and why U is likely to be enriched in waters of the southern Colorado Plateau. We show that U concentrations are related to the presence of U-rich rock bodies, elevation, and local aquifer salinity. Additionally, we show that U concentrations in waters downstream from abandoned U mines are higher than in waters that are not downstream from mines, and that the area around mines has an elevated U concentration relative to background U concentrations. Our work can act as a guide for local water withdrawal, regional water remediation and mitigation efforts, and provides a means for understanding the geographical patterns of U concentration in waters of the southern Colorado Plateau.
Short-Term Influence Analysis of Different Instep Weights on 50 Meters Speed and Running Time
Authors: Esquirol Caussa Jordi , Cos Morera Miquel Àngel , Padullés Riu Josep Maria , Sánchez Lloansí Montserrat , Méndez Olavide Marta , Tinajas Arrontes Cristina , García San Emeterio Manuel , Palmada Andreu Pere
Published: September 2022

Instep weights cause mechanical changes, modifying muscle activity and changing ground plantar support. 30 semi-professional sprinters, randomized in 3 groups [no-weight, Ascending (50, 100, 150 and 200g), Descending (200, 150, 100 and 50g)] run 6 consecutive 50-meter series at maximum speed (first and sixth without weights); partial, total times and speed were analyzed. Instep weights were safe and well tolerated. 6th series speed decreased except in men’s ascending group, who achieved a lower time in sixth compared to first series. Weights presented in ascending order in men during warm-up could improve running time. Instep weights neuromuscular effects could compensate men’s tiredness in last series; weights could be included in training methodologies. Men training weights presented in ascending order may provide better results.
The Spatial-Temporal Distribution of Chronic Lymphatic Filariasis in Indonesia: A 18-Year Registry-Based Analysis
Authors: Aisyah Dewi Nur , Kozlakidis Zisis , Diva Haniena , Tarmizi Siti , Sianipar Lita , Wijayanti Eksi , Avicena Ajie , Adisasmito Wiku Bakti Bawono
Published: September 2022

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a vector-borne disease caused by parasitic helminths and constitutes a serious public health issue in tropical regions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infected cases in Southeast Asia constitute 50% of the estimated 120 million infections globally. In Indonesia, LF is caused by all filarial species, and in 2018, 236 districts from a total of 514 districts in the entire country were declared as endemic areas. The global program to eliminate filariasis has been running for the last 19 years and has been conducted as a full national initiative for the last 8 years in Indonesia.
The study describes the surveillance of LF cases and prevalence in Indonesia for the past 17 years (2001-2017) – during the global and national LF elimination programs-, using national registry-based data. The data demonstrates that the national program has been largely effective in the areas it has been active the longest, while there are provinces lagging behind in the successful suppression of LF. The high geographical fragmentation of the country with the associated ecological parameters relating to LF incidence, likely play an important role in maintaining the highly varied incidence rate across Indonesia.
Modelling the Agricultural Soil Landscape of Germany – A Data Science Approach Involving Spatially Allocated Functional Soil Process Units
Authors: Ließ Mareike
Published: September 2022

The national-scale evaluation and modelling of the impact of agricultural management and cli-mate change on soils, crop growth, and the environment require soil information at a spatial res-olution addressing individual agricultural fields. This manuscript presents a data science ap-proach which agglomerates the soil parameter space into a limited number of functional soil pro-cess units (SPUs) which may be used to run agricultural process models. In fact, two unsupervised classification methods were developed to generate a multivariate 3D data product consisting of SPUs, each being defined by a multivariate parameter distribution along the depth profile from 0 to 100 cm. The two methods account for differences in variable types and distributions and in-volve genetic algorithm optimization to identify those SPUs with the lowest internal variability and maximum inter-unit difference with regards to both, their soil characteristics and landscape setting. The high potential of the methods was demonstrated by applying them to the agricultural German soil landscape. The resulting data product consists of twenty SPUs. It has a 100 m raster resolution in the 2D mapping space, and its resolution along the depth profile is 1 cm. It includes the soil properties texture, stone content, bulk density, hydromorphic properties, total organic carbon content, and pH.
Modeling Patient-Specific CAR-T Cell Dynamics: Multiphasic Kinetics Via Phenotypic Differentiation
Authors: Paixão Emanuelle Arantes , Barros Luciana Rodrigues Carvalho , Fassoni Artur César , Almeida Regina Célia Cerqueira de
Published: September 2022

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell immunotherapy revolutionized cancer treatment and consists of the genetic modification of T lymphocytes with a CAR gene, aiming to increase their ability to recognize and kill antigen-specific tumor cells. The dynamics of CAR-T cell responses in patients presents a multiphasic kinetics with distribution, expansion, contraction, and persistence phases. The characteristics and duration of each phase depend on the tumor type, the infused product, and on patient-specific characteristics. We present a mathematical model which describes the multiphasic CAR-T cell dynamics resulting from the interplay between CAR-T and tumor cells, considering patient and product heterogeneities. The CAR-T cell population is divided into functional (distributed and effector), memory, and exhausted CAR-T cell phenotypes. The model is able to describe the diversity of CAR-T cell dynamic behaviors in different patients and hematological cancers as well as their therapy outcomes. Our results indicate that the joint assessment of the area under the concentration-time curve in the first 28 days and the corresponding fraction of non-exhausted CAR-T cells may be considered as potential markers to classify therapy responses. Overall, the analysis of different CAR-T cell phenotypes can be a key aspect for a better understanding of the whole CAR-T cell dynamics.
Impact of Sex in Left Atrial Indices for Prognosis of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Hoshida Shiro , Tachibana Koichi , Masunaga Nobutaka , Shinoda Yukinori , Minamisaka Tomoko , Inui Hirooki , Ueno Keisuke , Seo Masahiro , Yano Masamichi , Hayashi Takaharu , Nakagawa Akito , Nakagawa Yusuke , Tamaki Shunsuke , Yamada Takahisa , Yasumura Yoshio , Sotomi Yohei , Hikoso Shungo , Nakatani Daisaku , Sakata Yasushi
Published: September 2022

Objective: We aimed to clarify the differences in the association between re-admission for heart failure (HF) and left atrial (LA) overload indices by sex in heart failure and a preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Methods: We analysed 898 HFpEF patients hospitalized for acute decompensated HF. Blood tests and transthoracic echocardiography were performed before discharge. The primary endpoint was re-admission for HF during the first year. Results: The ratio of diastolic elastance to arterial elastance (p=0.014), a relative index of LA pressure overload, in men and LA volume index (LAVI, p=0.020) in women were significant for re-admission for HF during the first year in the multivariable Fine-Gray analysis. Stroke volume (SV)/LA volume (LAV), another index for LAV overload, was not a significant prognostic factor of re-admission for HF during this time. Conclusion: LA overload was an important prognostic factor for HF re-readmission during the first year after enrolment in patients with HFpEF, but the indices relating to LA overload differed by sex.
Analisis Kapasitas Saluran Drainase di Jalan Yos Sudarso Kota Jambi
Authors: Laksana Tendy , Nurdin Ade , Ilfan Freddy
Published: September 2022

Kota Jambi merupakan kota yang mengalami pertumbuhan penduduk yang sangat pesat yang menyebabkan berbagai macam fasilitas untuk masyarakat seperti lapangan pekerjaan dan sarana pendidikan harus disediakan sebaik mungkin. Pertumbuhan penduduk yang pesat berpengaruh terhadap kinerja tata kota dan tentu juga berdampak pada tata air wilayah kota. Seiring bertambahnya jumlah kepadatan penduduk, volume air yang mengalir melalui saluran air juga akan meningkat karena keberadaan daerah resapan air semakin sedikit. Hal ini akan menyebabkan rendahnya kemampuan drainase dan prasarana pengendali banjir untuk mengeringkan kawasan dan mengalirkan air ke saluran pembuang. Permasalahan yang timbul yaitu adanya genangan air di beberapa tempat di Kota Jambi. Pada penelitian permasalahan yang timbul terjadi di Jalan Yos Sudarso Kota Jambi. Penelitian menggunakan metode rasional dengan menggunakan rumus manning dan rumus kontinuitas. hasil penelitian di Jalan Yos Sudarso Kota Jambi adalah kapasitas saluran drainase mampu menampung debit air.
Efek Kecepatan Pengendapan terhadap Perencanaan Unit Sedimentasi Primer pada Pengolahan Air Lindi
Authors: Notonugroho Owen Jacob , Kahendran Muhammad Faiz , Wiwiyanti Aliyah Baida , Nauval Dzaki , Arif Chusnul Arif , Kurniawan Allen
Published: September 2022

Produksi air lindi akibat tumpukan sampah akan mencemari lingkungan dan air tanah di bawahnya apabila tidak diolah dengan baik. Air lindi memiliki banyak padatan tersuspensi sehingga memerlukan koagulan sebagai pengikat antar partikel padatan. Penelitian ini merancang unit sedimentasi primer dengan mempertimbangkan kecepatan pengendapan ketika diberi koagulan. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian jar test diperoleh dosis optimum PAC 2500 mg/L karena memiliki nilai turbiditas dan COD terkecil berturut-turut sebesar 0.46 NTU dan 163 mg/L. Dosis koagulan terpilih selanjutnya dilakukan pengukuran hindered settling sehingga menghasilkan nilai ketinggian kritis 15,9 cm dan waktu kritis 76,7 menit. Proses pengendapan zona kompresi terjadi pada menit ke-183 ditandai dengan melandainya kurva. Desain unit sedimentasi primer berdasarkan karakteristik kecepatan pengendapan pada air lindi dapat mengadopsi persamaann Vesilind dan Yoshida-Dick. Nilai koefisien pengendapan dengan persamaan Vesilind dan Yoshida-Dick masing-masing sebesar 2 × 10-6  m3/gr  dan 9,82 × 10-3 m3/gr. Persamaan Vesilind menghasilkan nilai kecepatan pengendapan sebesar 0,009 cm/detik, sedangkan persamaan Yoshida dan Dick sebesar 0,01 cm/detik. Berdasarkan kurva hindered diperoleh nilai Hu sebesar 5,23 cm dan Tu sebesar 183,74 menit. Nilai Hu dan Tu dapat memperoleh nilai SOR sebesar 2,39 m3/m2. Debit aliran ditentukan sebesar 100 L/detik maka diperoleh nilai luas area permukaan sedimentasi sebesar 3614,74 m2 dan diameter unit sedimentasi diperoleh sebesar 66,67 m. Kedalaman total dan diameter unit sedimentasi primer diperoleh sebesar 4,59 m dan 66,67 m. Desain struktur unit sedimentasi terdiri atas struktur influen, orifice submerge EDI, dan struktur efluen agar debit influen yang memasuki unit sedimentasi tidak mengganggu proses pengendapan. Hubungan antara nilai pemodelan kecepatan pengendapan dengan desain unit sedimentasi diharapkan mampu mengoptimumkan proses pengendapan pada air lindi dengan menggunakan koagulan PAC.
Top-k Document Ranking and Sentence Similarity Retrieval System for Covid-19 Research Papers
Authors: Adesokan Ademola
Published: September 2022

The importance of academic research in solving problems and facilitating growth and development cannot be underestimated. When conducting academic research, one of the significant problems is knowing the recently published papers and getting related research papers to use for review and citation. This project develops a top-k document ranking and sentence similarity retrieval system for covid-19 research papers. The work is subdivided into top-k document ranking and sentence similarity retrieval. The former helps researchers working on Covid-19 related research to retrieve highly relevant research papers and articles related to Covid-19 topics based on their preferences by generating inverted indices using TF-IDF. It also searches and retrieves the best match and sorted list of most relevant papers and articles using Okapi BM25. The latter help to retrieve the top-k sentences, which can help researchers get sentences for citation in literature reviews. It uses TS-SS to get similar sentence(s) to the user query from the highly relevant document by improving the query answering accuracy and less time complexity.
Manual evaluation with user queries was used to test and evaluate the models. The result in this work shows an example of document retrieval of titles of the top-5 relevant research papers from the collection of Covid-19 and coronavirus-related documents was ranked and retrieved to the user query. For sentence retrieval, the experiment shows an example of the top-4 similar sentence(s) for the highly relevant article, which was evaluated by utilizing a user query to search from the document. The TS-SS model successfully retrieves the most related sentences from the document using the weighted maximum and indexed similarity.
Minimally Invasive Trans-Superior Articular Process Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy with Robot Assistance
Authors: Wang Zongjiang , Tan Ying , Fu Kai , Meng Zhaowu , Wang Liang
Published: September 2022

Background: To compare the clinical outcomes of patients with lumbar disc herniation treated with robot-assisted percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (r-PELD) or conventional PELD under fluoroscopy guidance (f-PELD).
Methods: Our study group included 55 patients, 22 in the r-PELD group and 33 in the f-PELD group. The following clinical and surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups: the visual analog scale for radiculopathy pain; Oswestry Disability Index; intraoperative volume of blood loss; frequency of fluoroscopy used during the procedure; and MacNab classification. The follow-up period was 6–8 months.
Results: Compared with f-PELD, r-PELD was associated with a lower volume of intraoperative blood loss and frequency of fluoroscopy (p<0.01). There were no differences in complications, MacNab classification, postoperative disability and leg pain, and duration of hospitalization between the two groups.
Conclusion: Based on our findings, r-PELD provides a safe and effective alternative to conventional PELD for the treatment of lumbar disc herniations, with the accuracy for placement of punctures lowering radiation exposure.
A spatial decision support system for optimizing expansion of COVID immunization services
Authors: Ouma Paul O , Ngom Roland , Oyugi Boniface , Atuhebwe Phionah , Okeibunor Joseph , Baldé Thierno , Nanyunja Miriam
Published: September 2022

Background
Access to COVID 19 continues to be a significant challenge in most low- and middle-income countries. There have been longstanding health system barriers towards accessing services in these countries over time, with geographic barriers being significant particularly given majority of people live in rural areas with poor facility network coverage. There has been no systematic assessment of existing networks in addition to how they can be optimised.
Methods
Using Kenya as an example, we mapped facilities providing COVID immunization facilities in the country. We then used a cost distance algorithm to assess geographic access to these facilities using a model that adjusts for differences in travel speeds across differences in elevation, land use and travel roads. We then extracted populations living within 1 hour of these facilities as a proxy of access for the 47 counties in the country. Finally, we used the same cost distance parameters to select facilities that would be used to optimize selection of additional facilities that would move access to 80%.
Results
We identified 621 facilities that were administering COVID vaccines as of August 2021. The accessibility model highlighted that only 60% of the country’s population was living within 1 hour of these facilities. The scale up activity using the cost distance algorithm identified an additional 560 facilities that can be prioritised to move theoretical access to 80%. These were not evenly distributed in the country, with counties such as Kakamega, Mandera, Nakuru and Nandi having additional 30 facilities selected.
Discussion
We highlight that 2 in five adults in Kenya live more than one hour from the nearest COVID immunization facility and this may be a barrier towards achieving universal access. We also highlight where efforts to improve coverage by increasing cold chain services can be concentrated to improve access. Furthermore, results can be used to improve decision making on where other interventions like community campaigns can be actively pursued for universal coverage.
Room air versus 100% oxygen for delivery room resuscitation of preterm neonates: A randomized, blinded, controlled trial
Authors: Liyakat Nishath Ahmed , Kumar Praveen , Sundaram Venkataseshan
Published: September 2022

Purpose: International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR-2020) report recommend starting delivery room resuscitation of all preterm neonates of <35 weeks’ gestation with 21-30%. However, correct initial oxygen for resuscitation of preterm neonates in delivery room is inconclusive. In this blinded, randomized, controlled trial, we compared room air with 100% oxygen for oxidative stress and clinical outcomes in delivery room resuscitation of preterm neonates.
Methods: Preterm neonates (28-33 completed weeks) and requiring positive pressure ventilation (PPV) at birth were randomly allocated to room air or 100% oxygen. Patients, investigators, outcome assessors and data analysts were blinded. Rescue 100% oxygen was used whenever trial gas failed (need for PPV > 60 seconds or chest compression). Primary outcome: Plasma 8-Isoprostane levels at 4h of age. Secondary outcomes: mortality by discharge, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity and neurological status at 40 weeks post-menstrual age. All subjects were followed till discharge. Intention to treat analysis was carried out.
Results: A total of 124 neonates were randomized to room air (n=59) or 100% oxygen (n=65). Isoprostane level (in pg/ml) at 4 hours was similar in both the groups [Median (IQR): 280 (180-430) vs. 250 (173-360) p=0.47]. No difference was observed in mortality and other clinical outcomes. Room air group in comparison to 100% oxygen group had higher proportion of treatment failures [27 (46) vs. 16 (25%); RR1.9 (1.1-3.1)]; and took longer time to establish regular respiration [230 ± 231 vs. 182 ± 261, MD = 48 (40, 136)].
Conclusion: In preterm neonates of <34 weeks’ gestation requiring resuscitation in the delivery room, room air (21%) would not be the right gas to initiate resuscitation. Larger controlled trials involving multiple centers of LMIC are warranted for a conclusive answer.
Trial registration: CTRI/2012/04/002593 (Retrospective)
Individual risk attitudes arise from noise in neurocognitive magnitude representations
Authors: Garcia Miguel Barretto , de Hollander Gilles , Grueschow Marcus , Polania Rafael , Woodford Michael , Ruff Christian
Published: September 2022

Humans are generally risk averse: they prefer options with smaller certain outcomes over those with larger uncertain ones. This risk aversion is classically explained with a concave utility function, meaning that successive increases in monetary payoffs should increase subjective valuations by progressively smaller amounts. Here, we provide neural and behavioural evidence that risk aversion may also arise from a purely perceptual bias: The noisy logarithmic coding of numerical magnitudes can lead individuals to underestimate the size of larger monetary payoffs, leading to apparent risk aversion even when subjective valuation increases linearly with the estimated amount. A formal model of this process predicts that risk aversion should systematically increase when individuals represent numerical magnitudes more noisily. We confirmed this prediction by measuring both the mental and neural acuity of magnitude representations during a purely perceptual task and relating these measures to individual risk attitudes during separate financial decisions. Computational model fitting suggested that subjects based both types of choices on similar mental magnitude representations, with correlated precision across the separate perceptual and risky choices. Increased stimulus noise due to the presentation format of risky outcomes led to increased risk aversion, just as predicted by the model. The precision of the underlying neural magnitude representations was estimated with a numerical population receptive field model fitted to the fMRI data of the perceptual task. Subjects with more precise magnitude representations in parietal cortex indeed showed less variable behaviour and less risk-aversion in the separate financial choices. Our results highlight that individual patterns of economic behaviour may, at least partially, be determined by capacity limitations in perceptual processing rather than by processes that assign subjective values to monetary rewards.
Health Sciences students’ experience of COVID-19 case management and contact tracing in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Zweigenthal Virginia , Olckers Lorna , Perez Gonda , Wolmarans Karen
Published: September 2022

Background
COVID-19 has challenged health systems globally. Managing the epidemic in Cape Town, South Africa, required partnerships with universities and setting up of programmes for mass case and contact tracing (C&CT). Health sciences, predominantly medical students, as well as social work and psychology students formed the core of this telephone-based work over the 18 months when SARS-CoV-2 caused severe disease.
Methods
This qualitative study aimed to elicit students’ motivations for becoming involved in C&CT, their experiences and, recommendations for C&CT. After Cape Town’s first COVID-19 wave, six on-line focus groups comprising 23 students were conducted, and a further four were conducted with 13 students after the second wave. As the researchers were predominantly educators previously involved in undergraduate health sciences education, the study’s purpose was to reflect on students’ experiences to make educational and health system recommendations.
Results
Students were largely motivated to mitigate the impact of the epidemic on society and support people affected by COVID-19, as well as hone their professional skills. While these motivations were realised, students also needed to learn new skills and to manage responsibilities within the healthcare systems that did not always work smoothly, distressed cases who were financially insecure, difficult employers, and language barriers. They were prepared through training, and supported by virtual, yet effective teamwork and debriefing opportunities. Although the work was sometimes physically and emotionally exhausting, students found the work personally meaningful. They embraced public health’s role to protect population and individuals’ health.
Conclusion
The C&CT opportunity enabled students to become confident, work autonomously and navigate challenges they will encounter as young professionals. The programme demonstrated that opportunities for rich student learning can be embedded into public health and clinical functions of health services, and that partnerships between the health services and universities can be deepened to mutual benefit.
RNA recognition by Npl3p reveals U2 snRNA-binding compatible with a chaperone role during splicing
Authors: Moursy Ahmed , CLERY Antoine , Gerhardy Stefan , Betz Katharina M. , Rao Sanjana , Campagne Sébastien , Beusch Irene , Duszczyk Malgorzata , Robinson Mark , Panse Vikram , Allain Frederic
Published: September 2022

The conserved SR-like protein Npl3 promotes splicing of diverse pre-mRNAs. However, the RNA sequence(s) recognized by the RNA Recognition Motifs (RRM1 & RRM2) of Npl3 during the splicing reaction remain elusive. Here, we developed a split-iCRAC approach in yeast to uncover the consensus sequence bound to each RRM. High-resolution NMR structures show that RRM2 recognizes a 5´-GNGG-3´ motif leading to an unusual mille-feuille topology. These structures also reveal how RRM1 preferentially interacts with a CC-dinucleotide upstream of this motif, and how the inter-RRM linker and the region C-terminal to RRM2 contributes to cooperative RNA-binding. Structure-guided functional studies show that Npl3 genetically interacts with U2 snRNP specific factors and we provide evidence that Npl3 melts U2 snRNA stem-loop I, a prerequisite for U2/U6 duplex formation within the catalytic center of the Bact spliceosomal complex. Thus, our findings suggest an unanticipated RNA chaperoning role for Npl3 during spliceosome active site formation.
Isoform-specific knockdown of long and intermediate prolactin receptors interferes with evolution of B-cell neoplasms
Authors: Khani Adeleh Taghi , Kumar Anil , Ortiz Ashly Sanchez , Radecki Kelly , Lee Sung June , Hu Zunsong , Damirchi Behzad , Lorenson Mary , Wu Xiwei , Gu Zhaohui , Stohl William , Sanz Ignacio , Meffre Eric , Müschen Markus , Forman Stephen , Koff Jean , Walker Ameae , Swaminathan Srividya
Published: September 2022

Prolactin (PRL) is elevated in B-cell mediated lymphoproliferative diseases and promotes B-cell survival. However, whether PRL or PRL receptors drive the initiation, establishment, and sustenance of B-cell malignancies is unknown. We measured changes in B cells after knocking down the pro-proliferative, anti-apoptotic long isoform of the PRL receptor (LFPRLR) in vivo in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)- and B-cell lymphoma-prone mouse models, and the LFPRLR plus intermediate isoforms (LF/IFPRLR) in vitro in malignant human B cells. To knockdown LF/IFPRLRs without suppressing expression of the counteractive short PRLR isoforms (SFPRLRs), we employed splice-modulating DNA oligomers. In SLE-prone mice, LFPRLR knockdown reduced numbers and proliferation of B-cell subsets and lowered the risk of B-cell transformation by downregulating expression of activation-induced cytidine deaminase. LFPRLR knockdown in lymphoma-prone mice reduced B-cell numbers and their expression of BCL2. In overt human B-cell malignancies, LF/IFPRLR knockdown reduced B-cell viability and their MYC and BCL2 expression. Unlike their normal counterparts which produced no autocrine PRL and expressed SFPRLRs, malignant human B cells expressed autocrine PRL and often no SFPRLRs. Isoform-specific knockdown of the LF/IFPRLR was not toxic to mice or to normal human immune cells, suggesting it is a safe approach to block the evolution of B-cell malignancies.
Logistics management information system performance for laboratory commodities: the case of west Shoa zone public health facilities, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. A facility-based concurrent explanatory mixed-method design
Authors: Dinka Ararsa , Tilahun Gizachew
Published: September 2022

Background
A logistics management information system is a mechanism of recording and reporting that captures, analyzes, and displays logistics data. It works well if trained and skilled people record, analyze, manage, validate and use it at all levels to make informed logistics decisions thus preventing shortages of commodities.
Objective
To assess the logistics management information system performance for laboratory commodities in the case of public health facilities of West Shoa zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia.
Methods
A facility-based concurrent explanatory mixed-method design was employed to assess the logistic management information system performance for laboratory commodities in public health facilities of West Shoa zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia from June 2021 to July 2021. Twenty health facilities were selected by using simple random sampling and purposively. Data were collected by reviewing logistic management information system tools. Data were checked for their completeness, coded, and entered into a statistical package for social sciences version 23 and analyzed using descriptive (percentage and frequency table) and inferential statistics (chi-square test). An in-depth interview was carried out to explore the challenges to logistic management information system performance and thematically analyzed.
Results
Logistic management information system tools availability ranges from 30–100% with utilization ranging from 15–95%. Data quality like timeliness and completeness of the reports were 80% and 75% with an 80% facility reporting rate. A significant association was observed between IFRR completeness and training pattern ꭓ2 (1, N = 109) = 4.127, P = 0.041, experience ꭓ2 (2, N = 109) = 12.203, P = 0.002, supervision ꭓ2 (5, N = 109) = 17.07, P = .004, and feedback ꭓ2 (4, N = 109) = 10.037, P = 0.04. Staff turnover, workload, and inadequate manpower were major challenges identified.
Conclusion
The availability and utilization of logistic management information system tools need improvement. Data quality like bin card accuracy, timeliness, and completeness still needs focus. Staff turnover, lack of commitment, workload and inadequate manpower were the challenges identified.
Detection of katG and inhA Gene Mutation in Rifampicin-resistant Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Using Line Probe Assay (LPA) in Kebbi, Nigeria.
Authors: Manga Shuaibu Bala , Danladi Yusuf Kanya , Olaosebikan Victor Oluwatosin , Adedokun Ayodele Isaac , Udefi Augustine Chijioke
Published: September 2022

Elimination of tuberculosis remains a public health menace, due to multidrug resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, that are resistant to the first-line anti-tubercular drugs. Consequently, detection of resistant strains depends on early diagnosis. Intervention of molecular techniques is essential to reduce mortality and morbidity rates. This study aimed to detect katG and inhA gene mutations among rifampicin resistant strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Kebbi State. A cross-sectional study was conducted which covered all the five major health zones in Kebbi State. Two hundred and forty (240) acid fast bacilli confirmed sputum samples were recruited and subjected to Gene Xpert testing. Positive sputum samples were later subjected to Line Probe Assay technique. 14 sputum samples were resistant to rifampicin out of the 240 confirmed acid fast bacilli sputum samples while 226 were sensitive to rifampicin. Mutations were found at the frequency of 100% for katG gene (katG/S315T) in all the 14 rifampicin resistant samples (rpoB/S531L) at the different health zones in kebbi state using the line probe assay. The research has also detected inhA gene mutation at a frequency of 100% in all rifampicin resistant samples showing that mutation is associated with multi resistance to isoniazid and rifampicin. This study confirms that resistance due to katG and inhA mutation is a better surrogate of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis among TB patients in Kebbi State compared to the single-marker analysis. Hence, early molecular detection of rifampicin resistant strains will suffice in determining the management of multidrug resistant tuberculosis in Kebbi State.
Prognostic Value of NT-pro BNP in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Assisted Cardiogenic Shock Patients: A 5-Year Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Shang Jin , Liu Miaomiao , Yan Yang , Zhang Ying , Guo Fengwei , Song Yan
Published: September 2022

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) for venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO)-assisted clinical outcomes in adult patients with cardiogenic shock (CS).
Methods: Seventy-seven CS patients who underwent VA-ECMO-assisted therapy at our center between January 2016 and January 2021 were included, and their demographic information and clinical data were collected. The prognostic value of NT-pro BNP in these patients was assessed.
Results: Among the study participants, the highest NT-pro BNP values after VA-ECMO assistance were observed in CS patients who had died versus those undergoing rehabilitation (21,439.62 vs. 13,568.26 pg/mL). Mean NT-pro BNP values at the time of ECMO weaning (18,170.95 vs. 8472.8 pg/mL) and before discharge (22,183.35 vs. 5646.197 pg/mL) were higher in the death group. Age; Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment scores; creatinine, platelet, blood urea nitrogen, total bilirubin, and lactic acid levels; mean arterial pressure; creatinine level at the time of ECMO weaning; NT-pro BNP value before discharge; and left ventricular ejection fraction percentage were reliable predictors of mortality. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was >0.70 (P<0.05). The AUC of pre-discharge NT-pro BNP was 0.873, and these NT-pro BNP values had the best predictive ability regarding patient death.
Conclusion:Among CS patients who received VA-ECMO assistance, NT-pro BNP values at each assistance point had important patient-related diagnostic and predictive values. Pre-discharge NT-pro BNP values were the best predictors of patient prognosis.
Postpartum Depressive Symptoms, Perceived Social Support and Their Associations of Women Under Different COVID-19 Pandemic Severities: Analysis of A Chinese Nationwide Multicenter Study
Authors: Li Hailin , Huang Junjie , Chen Haitian , Wang Zilian , Cao Yinli , Qi Hongbo , Ma Yuyan , Bai Xiaoxia , Zhao Yangyu , Liu Caixia , Wei Jun , Wang Hong , Jin Yan , Cai Shiqin , Zhu Yanna
Published: September 2022

Background
The evidence for associations of mental health with COVID-19 pandemic severity is scarce in postpartum women. We aimed to investigate the associations of postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS), perceived social support (PSS) with COVID-19 pandemic severity, respectively, and to explore the associations between PSS and PDS under different pandemic severities.
Methods
This was a nationwide multicenter study. An online survey was launched from January 23 through February 29, 2020 in mainland China. Participants’ PDS and PSS were measured by Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, respectively.
Results
The final sample consisted of 452 participants from 19 hospitals in 19 provinces/municipalities of mainland China. After covariate adjustment, women in Hubei Province experienced higher PDS levels than those in moderate (β coefficient = − 3.883, p = 0.001) and high (β coefficient = − 3.760, p = 0.005) pandemic severity; women in moderate pandemic severity reported higher PSS levels not only than those in high (β coefficient = − 4.947, p = 0.008) pandemic severity and Hubei Province (β coefficient = − 6.480, p = 0.049), but also than low (β coefficient = − 7.428, p = 0.005) pandemic severity. Also, no significant associations were found between PSS and pandemic severity for women with moderate-to-severe PDS (p > 0.05). There were significantly negative associations between PSS and PDS for women under low (OR = 0.837, p = 0.039), moderate (OR = 0.919, p < 0.001), and high (OR = 0.951, p = 0.012) pandemic severity, and no significant association between PSS and PDS was observed in Hubei Province after covariate adjustment (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
Women in Hubei Province experienced higher PDS levels than those in moderate and high pandemic severity. Women in moderate pandemic severity reported higher PSS levels not only than those in high pandemic severity and Hubei Province, but also than low pandemic severity, and no associations were found between PSS and pandemic severity for women with moderate-to-severe PDS. There were negative associations between PSS and PDS for women in low, moderate and high pandemic severity, but no association between PSS and PDS of women in Hubei Province.
Fuel bed variation in coastal tropical freshwater forested wetlands in three disturbance regimes at La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve, Mexico
Authors: Barrios-Calderón Romeo de Jesús , Mata Dulce Infante , Garnica José Germán Flores , Torres Jony R.
Published: September 2022

Tropical freshwater forested in coastal regions are rapidly disappearing as a result of wildfires caused by high accumulations of forest fuels, which can vary in quantity and availability. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize fuel beds in tropical freshwater forested wetlands with three levels of disturbance at El Castaño, La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve. Seventeen sampling units were used to describe the structure of the forest’s fuel beds (canopy, sub-canopy, understory). Fallen woody material, surface litter, and fermented litter were characterized using the planar intersection technique. Diversity was composed of eight species of trees, two shrubs, five lianas, and two herbaceous species. The vertical strata were dominated by trees between 2 to 22 m high. The horizontal structure had a higher percentage of trees with a diameter at breast height between 2.5 and 7.5 cm (61.4%) of the total. The non-disturbed sites presented the highest arboreal density (2686 ind. ha −1 ). The richness and diversity of species showed that the Fisher, Margalef, Shannon, and Simpson α indices were higher in the undisturbed sites. The Berger-Parker index exhibited greater dominance in the site’s with high disturbance. Pachira aquatica showed the highest importance value index and was the largest contributor to fuel beds. The sites with the greatest disturbance had a greater accumulation of dead fuel beds, with the greatest accumulations of woody fuels in classes 1, 10, and 1000 h (rotten). This study contributes to defining the areas prone to fire in these ecosystems and designing prevention strategies.
Retinol-binding protein type 1 expression predicts poor prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Fu Ling-ling , Yan Ming , Zhang Yi , Yu Xin , Shao Min , Gosau Martin , Friedrich Reinhard E. , Vollkommer Tobias , Smeets Ralf , Hu Xiang-zhi , Feng Hong-chao , Xu Li-ya
Published: September 2022

Background
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most prevalent malignancy worldwide, with high incidence and poor survival rates. RBP1 is highly expressed in several kinds of cancer and plays a potential prognostic factor. However, the relationship between RBP1 and HNSCC were analyzed based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database.
Materials and Methods
RBP1 expression and clinical information were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Tumor tissue and adjacent normal tissue of 3 HNSCC patients were collected to analyze the RBP1 mRNA expression level by quantitative PCR. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic values of RBP1 and clinical data in HNSCC. A nomogram was also established to predict the impact of RBP1 on prognosis based on Cox multivariate results. The methylation level of RBP1 in HNSC and its prognosis were analyzed in UALACN and MethSurv. Finally, the potential biological functions of RBP1 were investigated using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and single sample GSEA (ssGSEA).
Results
The mRNA expression level of RBP1 was highly expressed in HNSCC tissue. The multivariate analysis result indicated that RBP1 is an independent prognosic factor in HNSCC(P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that RBP1 had good presictive accuracy for prognosis (area under the ROC curve: 0.887, sensitivity: 84.1%, specificity: 79.9%). The methylation level of RBP1 in HNSCC tissues was higher than that in adjacent non-tumor tissues, six CpG sites were found associated with better prognosis. Additionally, RBP1 expression is mildly associated with immune cell infiltration and immunological checkpoints.
Conclusion
RBP1 is overexpressed and associated with poor patient prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Critical role of VHL/BICD2/STAT1 axis in crystal-associated kidney disease
Authors: Lu Dan , Hao Wenyan , Hong Peng , Zhang Xin , Zhao Xuyang , Ma Lulin , Ping Hao
Published: September 2022

Nephrolithiasis is highly prevalent and associated with the increased risk of kidney cancer. The tumor suppressor von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) is critical for renal cancer development, however, its role in kidney stone disease has not been fully elucidated until now. Here we reported VHL expression was upregulated in renal epithelial cells upon exposure to crystal. Utilizing Vhl+/mu mouse model, depletion of VHL exhibited severe kidney injury during nephrolithiasis. Conversely, overexpression of VHL limited crystal-induced lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis in a BICD2-depdendent manner. Mechanistically, VHL interacted with the cargo adaptor BICD2 and promoted its K48-linked poly-ubiquitination, consequently resulting in the proteasomal degradation of BICD2. Through promoting STAT1 nuclear translocation, BICD2 facilitated IFNγ signaling transduction and enhanced IFNγ-mediated suppression of cystine/glutamate antiporter system Xc−, eventually increasing cell sensitivity to ferroptosis. Moreover, we found that the BRAF inhibitor impaired the association of VHL with BICD2 through triggering BICD2 phosphorylation, ultimately causing severe ferroptosis and nephrotoxicity. Collectively, our results uncover the important role of VHL/BICD2/STAT1 axis in crystal kidney injury and provide a potential therapeutic target for treatment and prevention of renal inflammation and tumorigenesis.
The Impact of Psychological Resilience on Chronic Patients’ Depression During the dynamic Zero-COVID policy: The Mediating Effect of Stigma and the Moderating Role of Sleep
Authors: Mei Yujin , Yang Xue , Liu Changjun , Li Yuqing , Gui Jiaofeng , Zhang Lin
Published: September 2022

Objective
Chronic patients are experiencing depression caused by themselves or the surrounding environment, how to cope with the change of mentality and adjust the psychological stress response, especially under the background of the current dynamic Zero-COVID policy in China, is a problem worth further discussion. The researchers constructed a mediating regulation model to test the influence of psychological resilience on depression of chronic patients during dynamic Zero-COVID, as well as the mediating role of stigma and the regulating role of and the moderating role sleep.
Method
From October 2021 to February 2022, a multi-stage stratified sampling method was used to collect data in Shangcheng District of Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. We used the random number table method. Firstly, a third-class hospital was randomly selected from Shangcheng District. Secondly, departments were randomly selected from the hospital. Thirdly, survey points were set up in each department, and chronic patients were randomly selected from each survey point. In addition, chronic medical illness burden was assessed using the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale-Geriatrics (CIRS-G), psychological resilience was measured by the Conner-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), stigma was measured by the Stigma Scale for Chronic Illness (SSCI), sleep was measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI) and depressive symptoms were estimated by the Patient Health Questionaire-9(PHQ-9). SPSS (version 21) and PROCESS (version 4.0) were used for correlation analysis, mediation analysis, and mediated moderation analysis.
Results
Psychological resilience was negatively correlated with depression, stigma and sleep. Depression was positively correlated with stigma and sleep. Stigma and sleep were positively correlated; Stigma played a mediating role in the relationship between psychological resilience and depression; Sleep moderated the first half of the pathway " psychological resilience → stigma → depression" .
Conclusion
Psychological resilience affected depression directly and also indirectly through stigma. At the same time, sleep played a moderating role between psychological resilience and depression. The correlation between psychological resilience and stigma was stronger when levels of sleep levels were higher.
Andersen’s behaviour model on determining the factors associated with maternal healthcare services utilisation in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Li Hao , Pu Yiran , Li Zhen , Jin Ziyang , Jiang Yi
Published: September 2022

Background: Papua New Guinea (PNG) has recorded the highest maternal mortality ratio in the Western Pacific Region and faces major challenges in achieving SDG 3. Antenatal care (ANC), skilled birth attendant (SBA) and postnatal care (PNC) services are critical components of maternal healthcare services (MHS) for reducing maternal mortality and promoting maternal health in PNG. The study sought to assess the prevalence and determinants of ANC, SBA and PNC services amongst women in PNG.
Methods: The study was conducted using the 2016–2018 Papua New Guinea Demographic and Health Survey. A total of 5248 reproductive-age women were considered as the analytical sample. The outcome variables were utilisation of ANC, SBA and PNC services. Chi-square test, multivariable logistic regression and dominance analysis were conducted. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.
Results: The prevalence rates of ANC, SBA and PNC services were 52.3%, 58.7% and 26.6%, respectively. Women’s employment, education, media exposure, distance to health facility, household wealth, region, residence and parity were determinants of MHS utilisation. ANC, SBA and PNC services utilisation were all primarily influenced by enabling factors, followed by predisposing and need factors.
Conclusions: This study demonstrated that enabling factors such as media exposure, distance to health facility, household wealth, region and residence have the greatest impact on MHS utilisation, followed by predisposing (working, education) and need factors (parity). Therefore, enabling factors should be prioritised when developing maternal health programmes and policies. For example, transport and health infrastructure should be strengthened and women’s education and vocational training should be increased, especially in Highlands region, Momase region and rural areas, to increase the utilisation of MHS.