bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The World Health Organization COVID-19 surveillance database
Authors: Allan Maya , Lièvre Maja , Laurenson-Schafer Henry , de Barros Stéphane , Jinnai Yuka , Andrews Sophie , Stricker Thomas , Formigo Jesus Perez , Schultz Craig , Perrocheau Anne , Fitzner Julia
Published: November 2022

In January 2020, SARS-CoV-2 virus was identified as a cause of an outbreak in China. The disease quickly spread worldwide, and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the pandemic in March 2020.

From the first notifications of spread of the disease, the WHO’s Emergency Programme implemented a global COVID-19 surveillance system in coordination with all WHO regional offices. The system aimed to monitor the spread of the epidemic over countries and across population groups, severity of the disease and risk factors, and the impact of control measures. COVID-19 surveillance data reported to WHO is a combination of case-based data and weekly aggregated data, focusing on a minimum global dataset for cases and deaths including disaggregation by age, sex, occupation as a Health Care Worker, as well as number of cases tested, and number of cases newly admitted for hospitalization. These disaggregations aim to monitor inequities in COVID-19 distribution and risk factors among population groups.

SARS-CoV-2 epidemic waves continue to sweep the world; as of March 2022, over 445 million cases and 6 million deaths have been reported worldwide. Of these, over 327 million cases (74%) have been reported in the WHO surveillance database, of which 255 million cases (57%) are disaggregated by age and sex. A public dashboard has been made available to visualize trends, age distributions, sex ratios, along with testing and hospitalization rates. It includes a feature to download the underlying dataset.

This paper will describe the data flows, database, and frontend public dashboard, as well as the challenges experienced in data acquisition, curation and compilation and the lessons learnt in overcoming these. Two years after the pandemic was declared, COVID-19 continues to spread and is still considered a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). While WHO regional and country offices have demonstrated tremendous adaptability and commitment to process COVID-19 surveillance data, lessons learnt from this major event will serve to enhance capacity and preparedness at every level, as well as institutional empowerment that may lead to greater sharing of public health evidence during a PHEIC, with a focus on equity.
FAM84B promotes the proliferation of glioma cells through the cell cycle pathways
Authors: Ren Deshuai , Zhuang Xiaoyu , Lv Yanxin , Zhang Yun , Xu Jiazhi , Gao Fengquan , Chen Dagang , Wang Yu
Published: November 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate FAM84B expression in glioma tissues and explore the role of FAM84B in promoting the proliferation of glioma cells and the mechanism of regulating the cell cycle pathways.

Methods

The TCGA database was adopted to analyze FAM84B expression in glioma tissues. The FAM84B expression was detected by qRT-PCR in patients with glioma, especially that in glioma cells, U251, LN-229, U98, and U87. Two glioma cell lines U87 and T98 were selected for siRNA transfection, which were divided into si-NC si-FAM84B-1 and si-FAM84B-2 groups. The effect of FAM84B on the proliferation of glioma cells was detected with the MTT experiment and that on the glioma cell cycle was detected with the flow cytometry. The signaling pathways potentially regulated by FAM84B in glioma were analyzed through the bioinformatics analysis. The expression of proteins, Cyclin D1, CDK4, Cdk6, and p21, in the cell cycle-related pathways in cells of each group was detected by the Western blot.

Results

TCGA database results showed a significantly higher FAM84B expression in glioma tissues than that in paracancerous tissues. According to the detection of qRT-PCR, FAM84B expressed the highest in the glioma cell line U87 (P < 0.05). Compared with the serum of healthy controls, FAM84B mRNA expression significantly increased in patients with gliomas. And compared with the si-NC group, the proliferation ability of U87 and T98 cells decreased and the cell cycle was blocked in the G0/G1 phase in both si-FAM84B transfection groups (P < 0.05). According to the bioinformatics analysis, FAM84B regulated the cell cycle pathways in glioma. FAM84B siRNA inhibited the expression of key proteins, Cyclin D1, CDK2, CDK4, and Cdk6, of the cell cycle pathways in glioma cells and promoted the expression of P53 and P21 proteins.

Conclusions

In conclusion, FAM84B may inhibit the proliferation of glioma cells by regulating the cell cycle pathways.
Obesity alters the mouse endometrial transcriptome in a cell context-dependent manner
Authors: Wilson Mike R. , Skalski Hilary , Reske Jake J. , Wegener Marc , Adams Marie , Hostetter Galen , Hoffmann Hanne M. , Bernard Jamie J. , Bae-Jump Victoria L. , Teixeira Jose M. , Chandler Ronald L.
Published: November 2022

Obesity impacts fertility and is positively correlated with endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer occurrence. Endometrial epithelia often harbor disease driver-mutations, while endometrial stroma are highly regulative of neighboring epithelia. Here, we sought to determine distinct transcriptome changes occurring in individual cell types in the obese mouse uterus. Outbred CD-1 mice were fed high-fat or control diets for 18 weeks, estrous cycle staged, and endometrial epithelia, macrophages, and stroma isolated for transcriptomic analysis. High-fat diet mice displayed increased body mass and developed glucose intolerance, hyperinsulinemia, and fatty liver. Obese mouse epithelia displayed differential gene expression for genes related to innate immunity and leukocyte chemotaxis. The obese mouse stroma differentially expressed factors related to circadian rhythm, and expression of these genes correlated with glucose tolerance or body mass. We observed correlations between F4/80 + macrophage numbers, Cleaved Caspase 3 (CC3) apoptosis marker staining and glucose intolerance among obese mice, including a subgroup of obese mice with high CC3 + luminal epithelia. This subgroup displayed differential gene expression among all cell types, with pathways related to immune escape in epithelia and macrophages, while the stroma dysregulated pathways related to regulation of epithelia. These results suggest an important role for differential response of both the epithelia and stroma in their response to obesity, while macrophages are dysregulated in the context of apoptotic epithelia. The obesity-related gene expression programs in cells within the uterine microenvironment may influence the ability of the endometrium to function during pregnancy and influence disease pathogenesis.
Concentration-dependent increase in symptoms due to diesel exhaust in a controlled human exposure study
Authors: Orach Juma , Rider Christopher Francis , Yuen Agnes Che Yan , Carlsten Christopher
Published: November 2022

Background

Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) exposure causes adverse effects on wellbeing and quality of life, which can be studied non-invasively using self-reported symptoms. However, little is known about the effects of different TRAP concentrations on symptoms following controlled exposures, where acute responses can be studied with limited confounding. We investigated the concentration–response relationship between diesel exhaust (DE) exposure, as a model TRAP, and self-reported symptoms.

Methods

We recruited 17 healthy non-smokers into a double-blind crossover study where they were exposed to filtered air (FA) and DE standardized to 20, 50, 150 µg/m3 PM2.5 for 4 h, with a ≥ 4-week washout between exposures. Immediately before, and at 4 h and 24 h from the beginning of the exposure, we administered visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaires and grouped responses into chest, constitutional, eye, neurological, and nasal categories. Additionally, we assessed how the symptom response was related to exposure perception and airway function.

Results

An increase in DE concentration raised total (β ± standard error = 0.05 ± 0.03, P = 0.04), constitutional (0.01 ± 0.01, P = 0.03) and eye (0.02 ± 0.01, P = 0.05) symptoms at 4 h, modified by perception of temperature, noise, and anxiety. These symptoms were also correlated with airway inflammation. Compared to FA, symptoms were significantly increased at 150 µg/m3 for the total (8.45 ± 3.92, P = 0.04) and eye (3.18 ± 1.55, P = 0.05) categories, with trends towards higher values in the constitutional (1.49 ± 0.86, P = 0.09) and nasal (1.71 ± 0.96, P = 0.08) categories.

Conclusion

DE exposure induced a concentration-dependent increase in symptoms, primarily in the eyes and body, that was modified by environmental perception. These observations emphasize the inflammatory and sensory effects of TRAP, with a potential threshold below 150 µg/m3 PM2.5. We demonstrate VAS questionnaires as a useful tool for health monitoring and provide insight into the TRAP concentration–response at exposure levels relevant to public health policy.
Evaluating the role of breastfeeding peer supporters’ intervention on the inpatient management of malnourished infants under 6 months in Kenyan public hospitals
Authors: Mwangome Martha , de Colombi Nicole Feune , Chabeda Sophie , Mumbo Edward , Jemutai Julie , Tsofa Benjamin , Nzinga Jacinta , Jones Caroline
Published: November 2022

Background

The 2013 WHO guidelines for nutritional rehabilitation of malnourished infants under six months (u6m) focus on inpatient re-establishment of exclusive breastfeeding and recommends discharge when infant is gaining weight on breastmilk alone. Guided by a breastfeeding support tool, breastfeeding peer supporters (BFPS) can support implementation of these guideline by providing continuous individualised breastfeeding counselling to mothers of malnourished infants u6m. Recording and sharing information plays an important role in shaping in-patient care but little is known about recording practices for inpatient nutrition rehabilitation of infants u6m or how such practices affect care. We set out to explore introduction of BFPS into hospitals, and how it shaped the recording and practices of care for acutely malnourished infants u6m.

Methods

We applied a descriptive, exploratory design involving a pre and during intervention audit of the infant u6m inpatient records in two hospitals in Kenya, as well as pre- and post-intervention in-depth interviews with health workers involved in the care of admitted infants u6m. We developed an audit tool and used it to extract routine data on patient information from hospital records. Data were entered into a REDCap database and analyzed using STATA 17.0 software. We conducted thirty in-depth interviews with health workers exploring their care practices and their perceived effect of the presence of the BFPS on health workers treatment practices. We analysed interview data using thematic framework approach.

Results

A total of 170 and 65 inpatient files were available for the audit during the pre- and post-intervention period respectively. The presence of the BFPS seemed to have encouraged the recording of (i) breastfeeding status upon admission, (ii) breastfeeding management plan and (iii) reporting of its implementation and progress during treatment. The breastfeeding peer support intervention had a positive impact on breastfeeding recording and reporting practices. Health workers reported that the BFPS facilitated the recording of observed breastfeeding data and how their records influenced final inputs of breastfeeding support provided in the inpatient file.

Conclusions

Guideline implementation tools facilitate effective application of guidelines and should accompany any guideline formulation process and have their effectiveness at recording and monitoring progress evaluated.
The value of artificial intelligence for detection and grading of prostate cancer in human prostatectomy specimens: a validation study
Authors: Kudo Maíra Suzuka , Gomes de Souza Vinicius Meneguette , Estivallet Carmen Liane Neubarth , de Amorim Henrique Alves , Kim Fernando J. , Leite Katia Ramos Moreira , Moraes Matheus Cardoso
Published: November 2022

Background

The Gleason grading system is an important clinical practice for diagnosing prostate cancer in pathology images. However, this analysis results in significant variability among pathologists, hence creating possible negative clinical impacts. Artificial intelligence methods can be an important support for the pathologist, improving Gleason grade classifications. Consequently, our purpose is to construct and evaluate the potential of a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to classify Gleason patterns.

Methods

The methodology included 6982 image patches with cancer, extracted from radical prostatectomy specimens previously analyzed by an expert uropathologist. A CNN was constructed to accurately classify the corresponding Gleason. The evaluation was carried out by computing the corresponding 3 classes confusion matrix; thus, calculating the percentage of precision, sensitivity, and specificity, as well as the overall accuracy. Additionally, k-fold three-way cross-validation was performed to enhance evaluation, allowing better interpretation and avoiding possible bias.

Results

The overall accuracy reached 98% for the training and validation stage, and 94% for the test phase. Considering the test samples, the true positive ratio between pathologist and computer method was 85%, 93%, and 96% for specific Gleason patterns. Finally, precision, sensitivity, and specificity reached values up to 97%.

Conclusion

The CNN model presented and evaluated has shown high accuracy for specifically pattern neighbors and critical Gleason patterns. The outcomes are in line and complement others in the literature. The promising results surpassed current inter-pathologist congruence in classical reports, evidencing the potential of this novel technology in daily clinical aspects.
Intraoperative electron radiotherapy in early invasive ductal breast cancer: 6-year median follow-up results of a prospective monocentric registry
Authors: Philippson Catherine , Larsen Samuel , Simon Stéphane , Vandekerkhove Christophe , De Caluwe Alex , Van Gestel Dirk , Chintinne Marie , Veys Isabelle , De Neubourg Filip , Noterman Danièle , Roman Mirela , Nogaret Jean-Marie , Desmet Antoine
Published: November 2022

Background

Intraoperative electron radiotherapy (IOERT) can be used to treat early breast cancer during the conservative surgery thus enabling shorter overall treatment times and reduced irradiation of organs at risk. We report on our first 996 patients enrolled prospectively in a registry trial.

Methods

At Jules Bordet Institute, from February 2010 onwards, patients underwent partial IOERT of the breast. Women with unifocal invasive ductal carcinoma, aged 40 years or older, with a clinical tumour size ≤ 20 mm and tumour-free sentinel lymph node (on frozen section and immunohistochemical analysis). A 21 Gy dose was prescribed on the 90% isodose line in the tumour bed with the energy of 6 to 12 MeV (Mobetron®-IntraOp Medical).

Results

Thirty-seven ipsilateral tumour relapses occurred. Sixteen of those were in the same breast quadrant. Sixty patients died, and among those, 12 deaths were due to breast cancer. With 71.9 months of median follow-up, the 5-year Kaplan–Meier estimate of local recurrence was 2.7%.

Conclusions

The rate of breast cancer local recurrence after IOERT is low and comparable to published results for IORT and APBI. IOERT is highly operator-dependent, and appropriate applicator sizing according to tumour size is critical. When used in a selected patient population, IOERT achieves a good balance between tumour control and late radiotherapy-mediated toxicity morbidity and mortality thanks to insignificant irradiation of organs at risk.
Prognostic value of creatinine-to-cystatin c ratio in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cohort study
Authors: Wei Wen , Li Shanggang , Liu Jin , Liu Yong , Chen Kaihong , Chen Shiqun , Tu Mei , Chen Hong
Published: November 2022

Background

The serum creatinine-to-cystatin C ratio (Scr/Scys) has been suggested as a surrogate marker of muscle mass and a predictor of adverse outcomes in many diseases. However, the prognostic value of Scr/Scys in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unknown. The aim of this study is to assess the prognostic value of Scr/Scys in patients with T2DM.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we enrolled 3668 T2DM patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG). Serum creatinine (Scr) and serum cystatin C (Scys) levels were measured at admission. The study population was separated into low muscle mass (low-MM) and normal muscle mass (normal-MM) groups by Scr/Scys cut-off point. The association between muscle mass and long-term all-cause mortality was examined using Cox regression analysis.

Results

During a median follow-up of 4.9 (3.0–7.1) years, a total of 352 (9.6%) patients died. The mortality was higher in patients with low-MM as compared with patients with normal-MM (11.1% vs. 7.3%; p < 0.001). Low muscle mass was associated with increased risk for long-term all-cause mortality, regardless of whether Scr/Scys were used as a continuous variable (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.08 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03 to 1.13]; p = 0.009) or a categorial variable (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.36 [95% CI 1.03 to 1.75]; p = 0.021).

Conclusion

Low muscle mass assessed by Scr/Scys was associated with increased risk of long-term all-cause mortality in diabetic patients.
The role of Israeli researchers in the scientific literature regarding COVID-19 vaccines
Authors: Rosen Bruce , Davidovitch Nadav , Chodick Gabriel , Israeli Avi
Published: November 2022

Background

The accurate and timely publication of scientific findings is a key component of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the role of Israeli researchers in the scientific literature regarding COVID-19 vaccines.

Methods

Content and bibliometric analysis of articles included in the Web of Science database regarding COVID-19 vaccines, that were published between January 2020 and June 2022.

Results

The Web of Science includes 18,596 articles regarding COVID-19 vaccines that were published between January 2020 and June 2022. 536 (3%) of those articles had at least one Israeli author. These "Israeli articles" accounted for 11% of the NEJM articles on COVID-19 vaccines, 9% of such articles in Nature Medicine, and 4% of such articles in the Lancet. 80 of the 536 Israeli articles (15%) were recognized as "Highly Cited Papers" (articles that rank in the top 1% by citations for field and publication year). Most of the Israeli Highly Cited Papers (HCPs) analyzed the safety and/or efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech (BNT162b2). Most of the Israeli HCPs made use of detailed and comprehensive individual data available from Israel's health plans, hospitals, or Ministry of Health. The 15% HCP rate (i.e., the number of HCPs divided by the number of all articles) for the Israeli articles was triple the HCP rate for all articles on COVID-19 vaccines (5%). A key factor contributing to Israel's prominent role in rapid publication of vaccination impact studies was Israel's being a world leader in the initial vaccination rollout, the administration of boosters, and the vaccination of pregnant women. Other contributing factors include Israeli researchers' access to well-developed electronic health record systems linking vaccinations and outcomes, the analytic strengths of leading Israeli researchers and research institutions, collaborations with leading research institutions in other countries, and the ability to quickly identify emerging research opportunities and mobilize accordingly. Recent developments in the priorities and selection criteria of leading journals have also played a role; these include an increased openness to well-designed observational studies and to manuscripts from outside of Europe and North America.

Conclusions

Israeli researchers, Israeli research institutions, and the Israeli government can, and should, take concrete steps to build upon lessons learned in the course of the recent surge of high-quality publications related to COVID-19 vaccines (such as the value of linking data across organizations). These lessons can be applied to a wide range of fields, including fields that go well beyond vaccines and pandemic responses.
Mapping research evidence on quality of life in children with atopic dermatitis in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Kelbore Abraham Getachew , Enbiale Wendemagegn , Mosam Anisa , van Wyk Jacqueline M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, debilitating disease affecting children worldwide. Several studies have shown the disease to be a significant problem which leads to a diminished quality of life (QoL) for the affected children, but systematic evaluation of such studies in Africa is yet to be reported. Therefore, this scoping review aims to map research evidence on children with AD and their QoL in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

The scoping review will follow the Arksey and O’Mally methodological framework. The electronic databases to be searched will include PubMed, EBSCOhost (Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Health Sources), and Scopus and Google Scholar, for published literature between 2010 and 2021. The search strategy for the databases will include keywords, Medical Subject Headings terms, and Boolean operators. The reference list of the included sources of evidence and the WHO website will also be consulted for evidence relating to QoL of children with AD in SSA. Two independent reviewers will undertake abstract and full-text article screening with the guidance of eligibility criteria. This review will include studies conducted in SSA, and publications focusing on QoL and associated factors of AD in children. Data will be extracted from the included studies and analyzed qualitatively; NVIVO software V.11 will be used, and the emerging themes reported narratively. The mixed-method appraisal tool (MMAT) will be employed for quality appraisal of included studies.

Discussion

We look forward to the findings of several studies that describe the QoL and associated factors among children with AD and that report on the use of different diagnostic criteria, severity scaling and QoL measuring scale tools used to ascertain the presence of AD, scale the severity of AD, and the impact of AD on QoL among children. This will help to improve clinical practice and the QoL of children with AD in SSA. The study findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, peer presentations, and presentations at relevant conferences.

Conclusion

This study will add new knowledge on the QoL in children with AD in the SSA context. The study has the potential to inform research and clinical practice to impact the QoL of children with AD in SSA.
Solution of fractional integral equations via fixed point results
Authors: Zhou Mi , Saleem Naeem , Bashir Shahid
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we introduce two new concepts of F-contraction, called dual $F^{*}$

F
∗

-weak contraction and triple $F^{*}$

F
∗

-weak contraction, which generalize the existing contractions in the sense of Wardowski, Jleli and Samet as well as Skof. These new generalizations embed their roots in the aim devoted to extending the generalized Banach contraction conjuncture to the class of F-contraction type mappings with the use of multiple F-type functions. Furthermore, we establish the existence of a unique fixed point for such contractions under certain conditions. Fractional calculus can be used to precisely change or control the fractal dimension of any random or deterministic fractal with coordinates that can be expressed as functions of one independent variable. We apply our main result to weaken certain conditions on the fractional integral equations. Finally, we discuss the significance of our obtained results in comparison with certain renowned ones in the literature.
Cloud-based deep learning-assisted system for diagnosis of sports injuries
Authors: Wu Xiaoe , Zhou Jincheng , Zheng Maoxing , Chen Shanwei , Wang Dan , Anajemba Joseph , Zhang Guangnan , Abdelhaq Maha , Alsaqour Raed , Uddin Mueen
Published: November 2022

At both clinical and diagnostic levels, machine learning technologies could help facilitate medical decision-making. Prediction of sports injuries, for instance, is a key component of avoiding and minimizing injury in motion. Despite significant attempts to forecast sports injuries, the present method is limited by its inability to identify predictors. When designing measures for the avoidance of work-related accidents and the reduction of associated risks, the risk of injury to athletes is a crucial consideration. Various indicators are being evaluated to identify injury risk factors in a number of different methods. Consequently, this paper proposes a Deep Learning-assisted System (DLS) for diagnosing sports injuries using the Internet of Things (IoT) and the concept of cloud computing. The IoT sensors that compose the body area network collect crucial data for the diagnosis of sports injuries, while cloud computing makes available flexible computer system resources and computing power. This research examines the brain injury monitoring framework, uses an optimal neural network to forecast brain injury, and enhances the medical rehabilitation system for sports. Using the metrics accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, the performance of the proposed model is assessed and compared with current models.
Is diabetes the risk factor for poor neurological recovery after cervical spine surgery? A review of the literature
Authors: Wang Peng , Liu Baoge , Rong Tianhua , Wu Bingxuan
Published: November 2022

The poor prognosis of cervical spine surgery is mainly manifested as poor neurological recovery and the presence of new upper extremity dysfunction that promotes significant psychological and physiological burdens on patients. Many factors influence the prognosis of cervical spine surgery, including the age of patients, the time and mode of surgery, and the surgical technique used. However, in clinical studies, it has been observed that patients with diabetes have a higher probability of poor prognosis after surgery. Therefore, we review the pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathies and discuss its impact on cervical nerve system function, especially in cervical nerve roots and upper limb peripheral nerve conduction.
Screening of ulcerative colitis biomarkers and potential pathways based on weighted gene co-expression network, machine learning and ceRNA hypothesis
Authors: Li Ying , Tang Mengyao , Zhang Feng Jun , Huang Yihan , Zhang Jing , Li Junqi , Wang Yunpeng , Yang Jinguang , Zhu Shu
Published: November 2022

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) refers to an intractable intestinal inflammatory disease. Its increasing incidence rate imposes a huge burden on patients and society. The UC etiology has not been determined, so screening potential biomarkers is critical to preventing disease progression and selecting optimal therapeutic strategies more effectively.

Methods

The microarray datasets of intestinal mucosal biopsy of UC patients were selected from the GEO database, and integrated with R language to screen differentially expressed genes and draw proteins interaction network diagrams. GO, KEGG, DO and GSEA enrichment analyses were performed to explore their biological functions. Through machine learning and WGCNA analysis, targets that can be used as UC potential biomarkers are screened out. ROC curves were drawn to verify the reliability of the results and predicted the mechanism of marker genes from the aspects of immune cell infiltration, co-expression analysis, and competitive endogenous network (ceRNA).

Results

Two datasets GSE75214 and GSE87466 were integrated for screening, and a total of 107 differentially expressed genes were obtained. They were mainly related to biological functions such as humoral immune response and inflammatory response. Further screened out five marker genes, and found that they were associated with M0 macrophages, quiescent mast cells, M2 macrophages, and activated NK cells in terms of immune cell infiltration. The co-expression network found significant co-expression relationships between 54 miRNAs and 5 marker genes. According to the ceRNA hypothesis, NEAT1-miR-342-3p/miR-650-SLC6A14, NEAT1-miR-650-IRAK3, and XIST-miR-342-3p-IRAK3 axes were found as potential regulatory pathways in UC.

Conclusion

This study screened out five biomarkers that can be used for the diagnosis and treatment of UC, namely SLC6A14, TIMP1, IRAK3, HMGCS2, and APOBEC3B. Confirmed that they play a role in the occurrence and development of UC at the level of immune infiltration, and proposed a potential RNA regulatory pathway that controls the progression of UC.
The biomechanical behavior of 3D printed human femoral bones based on generic and patient-specific geometries
Authors: Nägl Katharina , Reisinger Andreas , Pahr Dieter H.
Published: November 2022

Background

Bone is a highly complex composite material which makes it hard to find appropriate artificial surrogates for patient-specific biomechanical testing. Despite various options of commercially available bones with generic geometries, these are either biomechanically not very realistic or rather expensive.

Methods

In this work, additive manufacturing was used for the fabrication of artificial femoral bones. These were based on CT images of four different commercially available femoral bone surrogates and three human bones with varying bone density. The models were 3D printed using a low-budget fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer and PLA filament. The infill density was mechanically calibrated and varying cortical thickness was used. Compression tests of proximal femora simulating stance were performed and the biomechanical behavior concerning ultimate force, spring stiffness, and fracture pattern were evaluated as well as compared to the results of commercial and cadaveric bones.

Results

Regarding the ultimate forces and spring stiffness, the 3D printed analogs showed mechanical behavior closer to their real counterparts than the commercially available polyurethan-based surrogates. Furthermore, the increase in ultimate force with increasing bone density observed in human femoral bones could be reproduced well. Also, the fracture patterns observed match well with fracture patterns observed in human hip injuries.

Conclusion

Consequently, the methods presented here show to be a promising alternative for artificial generic surrogates concerning femoral strength testing. The manufacturing is straightforward, cheap, and patient-specific geometries are possible.
Supervised Hebbian learning
Authors: Alemanno Francesco , Aquaro Miriam , Kanter Ido , Barra Adriano , Agliari Elena
Published: November 2022

In neural network's literature, Hebbian learning traditionally refers to the procedure by which the Hopfield model and its generalizations store archetypes (i.e., definite patterns that are experienced just once to form the synaptic matrix). However, the term learning in machine learning refers to the ability of the machine to extract features from the supplied dataset (e.g., made of blurred examples of these archetypes), in order to make its own representation of the unavailable archetypes. Here, given a sample of examples, we define a supervised learning protocol based on Hebb's rule and by which the Hopfield network can infer the archetypes. By an analytical inspection, we detect the correct control parameters (including size and quality of the dataset) that tune the system performance and we depict its phase diagram. We also prove that, for structureless datasets, the Hopfield model equipped with this supervised learning rule is equivalent to a restricted Boltzmann machine and this suggests an optimal and interpretable training routine. Finally, this approach is generalized to structured datasets: we highlight an ultrametric-like organization (reminiscent of replica-symmetry-breaking) in the analyzed datasets and, consequently, we introduce an additional broken-replica hidden layer for its (partial) disentanglement, which is shown to improve MNIST classification from

to

, and to offer a new perspective on deep architectures.
Alpha-T-catenin is expressed in peripheral nerves as a constituent of Schwann cell adherens junctions
Authors: Weng Anthea , Rabin Erik E. , Flozak Annette S. , Chiarella Sergio E. , Aillon Raul Piseaux , Gottardi Cara J.
Published: November 2022

The adherens junction component, alpha-T-catenin (αTcat) is an established contributor to cardiomyocyte junction structure and function, but recent genomic studies link CTNNA3 polymorphisms to diseases with no clear cardiac underpinning, including asthma, autism and multiple sclerosis, suggesting causal contributions from a different cell-type. We show Ctnna3 mRNA is highly expressed in peripheral nerves (e.g. vagus and sciatic), where αTcat protein enriches at paranodes and myelin incisure adherens junctions of Schwann cells. We validate αTcat immunodetection specificity using a new Ctnna3-knock-out fluorescence reporter mouse line yet find no obvious Schwann cell loss-of-function morphology at the light microscopic level. CTNNA3/Ctnna3 mRNA is also abundantly detected in oligodendrocytes of the central nervous system via public databases, supporting a general role for αTcat in these unique cell–cell junctions. These data suggest that the wide range of diseases linked to CTNNA3 may be through its role in maintaining neuroglial functions of central and peripheral nervous systems.

This article has a corresponding First Person interview with the co-first authors of the paper.
Οκτώβριος 1944: Η εξέγερση στο Άουσβιτς – Φεβρουάριος 2021: Η διαμεσολαβούμενη χορογραφία στη Νέα Σμύρνη
Authors: Αρναούτη Ειρήνη
Published: November 2022

Κατά το σχολικό έτος 2020-2021, υλοποιήθηκε στο Πρότυπο ΓΕ.Λ. Ευαγγελικής Σχολής Σμύρνης η δράση που αναλύεται σε αυτό το άρθρο. Συμμετείχαν τέσσερις μαθητές και μαθήτριες και επιβλέπουσα ήταν η καθηγήτρια Αγγλικών του σχολείου, η οποία έχει εξειδίκευση στη μιντιακή αγωγή. Η δράση δημιουργίας ενός ψηφιακού βίντεο διαμεσολαβούμενης χορογραφίας πάνω στο θέμα του Ολοκαυτώματος και των Ελλήνων Εβραίων υλοποιήθηκε με αφορμή τον διαγωνισμό του Υπουργείου Παιδείας και Θρησκευμάτων και του Εβραϊκού Μουσείου Ελλάδος για το σχολικό έτος 2020-2021. Η μαθητική ομάδα εργάστηκε συνεργατικά, καθοδηγούμενη από την καθηγήτριά της, με σκοπό τη μελέτη της εξέγερσης των sonderkommando του Άουσβιτς, τη δόμηση της αφήγησής της και έπειτα τη δημιουργία ενός καλλιτεχνικού εξάλεπτου βίντεο πάνω σε αυτό το θέμα. Η συγκεκριμένη δράση αποτελεί επίσης πρόταση για την υλοποίηση παρόμοιων δράσεων οπτικοακουστικού γραμματισμού στα σχολεία και τις δομές της δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Αντωνόπουλος Νικόλαος
Published: November 2022

Στο παρόν ειδικό τεύχος το επιστημονικό ηλεκτρονικό περιοδικό ανοικτής πρόσβασης Animation, φίλμ και Διαδραστικά Μέσα στην Εκπαίδευση και τον Πολιτισμό επικεντρώνεται σε θέματα θεωρίας και πράξης στο τομέα της Περιβαλλοντική Επικοινωνίας. Οι εργασίες του συγκεκριμένου τεύχους προέρχονται μετά από ανώνυμη κρίση και επιλογή τους από το πρώτο - cclabs2022 - ετήσιο συνέδριο εργαστηρίων επικοινωνίας (www.cclabs.gr).
Towards achieving lightweight intrusion detection systems in Internet of Things, the role of incremental machine learning: A systematic literature review
Authors: Agbedanu Promise Ricardo , Musabe Richard , Rwigema James , Gatare Ignace , Maginga Theofrida Julius , Amenyedzi Destiny Kwabla
Published: November 2022

While the benefits of IoT cannot be overstated, its computational constraints make it challenging to deploy security methodologies that have been deployed in traditional computing systems. The benefits and computational constraints have made IoT systems attractive to cyber-attacks. One way to mitigate these attacks is to detect them. In this study, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) has been conducted to analyze

the role of incremental machine learning in achieving lightweight intrusion detection for IoT systems. The study analyzed existing incremental machine learning approaches used in designing intrusion detection systems for IoT ecosystems, emphasizing the incremental methods used in detecting intrusions, the datasets used to evaluate these methods, and how the method achieves lightweight status. The SLR outlined the contributions of each study, focusing on their strengths and gaps, the datasets used, and the incremental machine learning model used. This study revealed that incremental learning approaches in detecting intrusion in IoT systems are in their infant stage. Over 12 years, from 2010 to 2022, a total of twenty-one (21) studies were carried out in IDSs using incremental machine learning, with eight (8) studies carried out in IoT systems. In addition to reviewing the literature, we offer suggestions for improving existing solutions and achieving lightweight IDS for IoT systems. We also discussed some problems with making lightweight IDS for IoT systems and areas where

more research could be done in the future.
Study of Stress Resistance Among Students of the Direction of Training «Personnel Management» in the Process of Adaptation to the University
Authors: Perederiy V. , Skripnichenko L. , Skorobogatov V.
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the study was to identify stress symptoms in students and resources that positively affect the adaptation process at the university, which affect the level of stress resistance of students during their adaptation to the educational environment.

During the survey (sample – 225 students) (212 girls and 13 boys)) and expert interviews (psychological service workers, members of the faculty of the Kuban State University of the Krasnodar Territory who carry out educational work with students of the first and second courses of study were interviewed (curators and deputy deans for educational work, n = 12)) confirmed the need for a comprehensive study combining socio-psychological and individual typological directions in determining the level of stress resistance of students in the process of adaptation to the educational environment.
Phase retrieval of two random phase-shifting interferograms using Zernike coefficient extraction network
Authors: Yan Ketao , Yu WenJun , Chen Congping , Zhang Hongmin , Asundi Anand , Yu Yingjie
Published: November 2022

This paper proposes a deep learning method for phase retrieval from two interferograms. The proposed method converts phase retrieval into the Zernike coefficient extraction problem, which can achieve Zernike coefficient extraction from two interferograms with random phase shifts. After knowing Zernike coefficients, the phase distribution can be retrieved using Zernike polynomials. The pre-filtering and phase unwrapping process are not required using the proposed method. The simulated data are analyzed, and the root mean square (RMS) of phase error reaches 0.01 λ. The effectiveness of the method is verified by the measured data.
Signal distortion awakened from optical memory estimated using a calculation method with spatiotemporal separation
Authors: Wang Shumin , Zhang Shuanggen , Xv Bing
Published: November 2022

The fidelity of photonic storage and retrieval is an essential criterion in long-distance all-optical network nodes. However, the recovered signals from optical memories based on the photon echo (PE) protocol are accompanied by undesired waveform variation and temporal drift. In this study, we use a numerical calculation method with spatiotemporal separation to investigate the essence of signal distortion. The results show that the asynchronous evolution of the macroscopic population difference and the macroscopic dipole moment with time is responsible for echo signal real distortion caused by phase shifts at the in-phase point of the recorded information. The constructive interference of the dipoles at the moment of reaching the in-phase point induces the photon emission, and this point with a nonspecific phase will be naturally accompanied by waveform changes, a small amount of time advance and delay of the PE signal, which is actually a false signal distortion. Such radiation mechanism of the inhomogeneous broadening media provides a perspective to accurately and correctly recognize the temporal drift and waveform variation of the recovered optical signal.
Longitudinal IgG antibody responses to Plasmodium vivax blood-stage antigens during and after acute vivax malaria in individuals living in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Tashi Tenzin , Upadhye Aditi , Kundu Prasun , Wu Chunxiang , Menant Sébastien , Soares Roberta Reis , Ferreira Marcelo U. , Longley Rhea J. , Mueller Ivo , Hoang Quyen Q. , Tham Wai-Hong , Rayner Julian C. , Scopel Kézia KG , Lima-Junior Josué C. , Tran Tuan M.
Published: November 2022

Background

To make progress towards malaria elimination, a highly effective vaccine targeting Plasmodium vivax is urgently needed. Evaluating the kinetics of natural antibody responses to vaccine candidate antigens after acute vivax malaria can inform the design of serological markers of exposure and vaccines.

Methodology/Principal findings

The responses of IgG antibodies to 9 P. vivax vaccine candidate antigens were evaluated in longitudinal serum samples from Brazilian individuals collected at the time of acute vivax malaria and 30, 60, and 180 days afterwards. Antigen-specific IgG correlations, seroprevalence, and half-lives were determined for each antigen using the longitudinal data. Antibody reactivities against Pv41 and PVX_081550 strongly correlated with each other at each of the four time points. The analysis identified robust responses in terms of magnitude and seroprevalence against Pv41 and PvGAMA at 30 and 60 days. Among the 8 P. vivax antigens demonstrating >50% seropositivity across all individuals, antibodies specific to PVX_081550 had the longest half-life (100 days; 95% CI, 83–130 days), followed by PvRBP2b (91 days; 95% CI, 76–110 days) and Pv12 (82 days; 95% CI, 64–110 days).

Conclusion/Significance

This study provides an in-depth assessment of the kinetics of antibody responses to key vaccine candidate antigens in Brazilians with acute vivax malaria. Follow-up studies are needed to determine whether the longer-lived antibody responses induced by natural infection are effective in controlling blood-stage infection and mediating clinical protection.
Bacteriologically confirmed extrapulmonary tuberculosis and the associated risk factors among extrapulmonary tuberculosis suspected patients in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Diriba Getu , Alemu Ayinalem , Eshetu Kirubel , Yenew Bazezew , Gamtesa Dinka Fikadu , Tola Habteyes Hailu
Published: November 2022

Background

The actual burden of bacteriologically confirmed extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) and risk factors in Ethiopia is not well known due to the lack of a strong surveillance system in Ethiopia. Thus, this study was conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of bacteriologically confirmed EPTB and the associated risk factors among persons suspected to have non-respiratory tuberculosis in Ethiopia.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies reporting the prevalence of EPTB from searched electronic databases; Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar was estimated spread across the research periods, nationally, and in different areas, using a fixed-effects model. We used I2 to analyze heterogeneity in the reported prevalence of bacteriologically confirmed extrapulmonary tuberculosis.

Results

After reviewing 938 research articles, 20 studies (19 cross-sectional and 1 retrospective) from 2003 to 2021 were included in the final analyses. The pooled prevalence of bacteriologically confirmed EPTB was 43% (95%CI; 0.34–0.52, I2 = 98.45%). The asymmetry of the funnel plot revealed the presence of publication bias. Specifically the pooled prevalence of bacteriologically confirmed EPTB based on smear microscopy, Xpert MTB/RIF assay, and culture were 22% (95%CI; 0.13–0.30, I2 = 98.56%), 39% (95%CI; 0.23–0.54, I2 = 98.73%) and 49% (95%CI; 0.41–0.57, I2 = 96.43%) respectively. In this study, a history of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) contact with PTB patients, contact with live animals, consumption of raw milk, HIV-positive, male, and lower monthly income, were found to be independently associated with bacteriologically confirmed EPTB.

Conclusion

Ethiopia has a high rate of bacteriologically confirmed EPTB. A history of previous PTB, being HIV-positive and having contact with PTB patients were the most reported risk factors for EPTB in the majority of studies. Strengthening laboratory services for EPTB diagnosis should be given priority to diagnose EPTB cases as early as possible.
A national household survey on HIV prevalence and clinical cascade among children aged ≤15 years in Kenya (2018)
Authors: Mutisya Immaculate , Muthoni Evelyn , Ondondo Raphael O. , Muthusi Jacques , Omoto Lennah , Pahe Charlotte , Katana Abraham , Ngugi Evelyn , Masamaro Kenneth , Kingwara Leonard , Dobbs Trudy , Bronson Megan , Patel Hetal K. , Sewe Nicholas , Naitore Doris , De Cock Kevin , Ngugi Catherine , Nganga Lucy
Published: November 2022

We analyzed data from the 2018 Kenya Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (KENPHIA), a cross-sectional, nationally representative survey, to estimate the burden and prevalence of pediatric HIV infection, identify associated factors, and describe the clinical cascade among children aged < 15 years in Kenya. Interviewers collected information from caregivers or guardians on child’s demographics, HIV testing, and treatment history. Blood specimens were collected for HIV serology and if HIV-positive, the samples were tested for viral load and antiretrovirals (ARV). For participants <18 months TNA PCR is performed. We computed weighted proportions with 95% confidence intervals (CI), accounting for the complex survey design. We used bivariable and multivariable logistic regression to assess factors associated with HIV prevalence. Separate survey weights were developed for interview responses and for biomarker testing to account for the survey design and non-response. HIV burden was estimated by multiplying HIV prevalence by the national population projection by age for 2018. Of 9072 survey participants (< 15 years), 87% (7865) had blood drawn with valid HIV test results. KENPHIA identified 57 HIV-positive children, translating to an HIV prevalence of 0.7%, (95% CI: 0.4%–1.0%) and an estimated 138,900 (95% CI: 84,000–193,800) of HIV among children in Kenya. Specifically, children who were orphaned had about 2 times higher odds of HIV-infection compared to those not orphaned, adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.2 (95% CI:1.0–4.8). Additionally, children whose caregivers had no knowledge of their HIV status also had 2 times higher odds of HIV-infection compared to whose caregivers had knowledge of their HIV status, aOR 2.4 (95% CI: 1.1–5.4)”. From the unconditional analysis; population level estimates, 78.9% of HIV-positive children had known HIV status (95% CI: 67.1%–90.2%), 73.6% (95% CI: 60.9%–86.2%) were receiving ART, and 49% (95% CI: 32.1%–66.7%) were virally suppressed. However, in the clinical cascade for HIV infected children, 92% (95% CI: 84.4%–100%) were receiving ART, and of these, 67.1% (95% CI: 45.1%–89.2%) were virally suppressed. The KENPHIA survey confirms a substantial HIV burden among children in Kenya, especially among orphans.