bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-parametric characterization of blast loads
Authors: Kirchner Matthew R , Kirchner Shawnasie R , Dennis Adam A , Rigby Samuel E
Published: June 2023

Mathematical analysis of blast pressures has typically involved the empirical fitting of parametric models, which assumes a specific function shape. In reality, the true shape of the blast pressure is unknown and may lack a parametric form, particularly in the negative phase following arrival of the secondary shock. In this work, we develop a non-parametric (NP) representation that makes few assumptions and relies on the observed experimental data to fit a unique and previously unknown model. This differs from traditional approaches by not arbitrarily selecting a single, restrictive class of functions and estimating a minimal set of parameters, but rather estimating the underlying function class for which the blast pressure is generated; learning the model directly from the observed data. The method was applied to experimental blast measurements and the NP estimates matched the experimental data with a high degree of accuracy, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The NP approach was shown to significantly outperform other commonly used approaches, near-perfectly track the entire pressure and specific impulse history and predicting experimental peak specific impulse to within ±0.5% in all cases (compared to ±5.0% for a trained artificial neural network (ANN) and ±7.5% for the UFC semi-empirical approach). The NP approach predicts experimental net specific impulses (positive and negative phases combined) with a maximum variation of 2.7%, compared to maximum variations of −116% and 55% for the UFC and ANN approaches, respectively. Since the framework is probabilistic in nature, it can naturally account for random noise in sensor measurements, which are typically more pronounced in blast experiments than many other machine learning applications.
Effectiveness of robot-assisted arm exercise on arm and hand function in stroke survivors - A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Johansen Truls , Sørensen Linda , Kolskår Knut K , Strøm Vegard , Wouda Matthijs F
Published: June 2023

Objective: To examine the treatment effect of commercially available robotic-assisted devices, compared to traditional occupational- and physiotherapy on arm and hand function in persons with stroke. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to January 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCT’s) involving persons with stroke of all ages and robot-assisted exercise as method for arm and hand function, compared to traditional therapy methods were included. Three authors performed the selection independently. The quality of evidence across studies was assessed using GRADE. Results: Eighteen RCT’s were included in the study. A random effects meta-analysis showed a statistically significantly higher treatment effect in the robotic-assisted exercise group (p=<0.0001) compared to the traditional treatment group, with a total effect size of 0.44 (CI = 0.22–0.65). Heterogeneity was high, measured with I2 of 65%). Subgroup analyses showed no significant effects of the type of robotic device, treatment frequency or duration of intervention. Discussion and conclusion: Even though the analysis showed significant improvement in arm and hand function in favor of the robotic-assisted exercise group, the results in this systematic review should be interpreted with caution. This is due to high heterogeneity among the studies included and the presence of possible publication bias. Results of this study highlight the need for larger and more methodological robust RCT’s, with a focus on reporting training intensity during robotic exercise.
Potential of social engagement for overcoming barriers to physical activity in individuals with spinal cord injury
Authors: Canori Alexandra , Lakshminarayanan Rithika , Nunn Melissa , Schmidt-Read Mary , Intille Stephen S , Hiremath Shivayogi V
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Many barriers to physical activity (PA) exist for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Social engagement may improve motivation to perform PA, which in turn may increase PA levels. This pilot study investigates how social engagement facilitated by mobile technology may reduce lack of motivation as a barrier to PA in individuals with SCI and demonstrates design implications for future technologies.

Methods

A user-needs survey was conducted with participants in the community. We recruited 26 participants (16 individuals with SCI and 10 family members or peers). A participatory design process using semi-structured interviews was used to identify themes relating to PA barriers.

Results

One theme related to PA barriers was lack of PA-focused forums to connect with peers. Participants with SCI considered connecting with other individuals with SCI more motivating than connecting with their family members. Another key finding was that participants with SCI did not perceive that personal fitness trackers were targeted towards wheelchair-based activities.

Conclusions

Engagement and communication with peers who have similar functional mobility levels and life experiences can potentially improve motivation for PA; however, PA-motivational platforms are not tailored towards wheelchair-users. Our preliminary findings show that some individuals with SCI are not satisfied with current mobile-technologies for wheelchair-based PA.
Quantifying the changes in body mass index and performance status during androgen deprivation therapy for advanced prostate cancer in southeast Nigeria
Authors: Okolie Louis Tochukwu , Nnabugwu Ikenna Ifeanyi , Echetabu Kevin Ndubuisi , Anikwe Obinna Nnabuife , Anyimba Solomon Kenechukwu , Ozoemena Francis Oyiogu
Published: June 2023

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for advanced prostate cancer (aPCa) causes changes in body mass index (BMI) and in the performance status depending on the extent of cancer remission. The aim of this study is to quantify these changes.

Methods

A prospective cohort study in a public tertiary urology centre in Enugu, southeast Nigeria. With appropriate sample size determined, men with aPCa for ADT, by surgical or medical modality, were recruited into a test group (TG), taking note of the Gleason score. A cohort of similar men without malignant or debilitating diseases formed the control group (CG). The age, weight and the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score were determined before ADT and at 2 monthly intervals for the TG. Same parameters were assessed for the CG at 2 monthly intervals. Additionally, total prostate-specific antigen (tPSA) was done for the TG at 3 monthly intervals.

Results

In all, 119 men in the TG and 68 men in the CG were recruited with no differences in age (F 2.777; p 0.10) and height (F 0.409; p 0.52) at recruitment. In the TG, BMI increased from 25.20 ± 3.92 to 26.26 ± 3.90 kg/m2 (p 0.001), median tPSA dropped from 36.9 ng/ml (IQR 20.4–65.7) to 3.7 ng/ml (IQR 1.1–8.7) and ECOG score improved (χ2 34.1; df9; p < 0.001) with reduction in the proportion of men with ECOG > 1 from 84.0 to 20.4%. A secondary finding is that gains in BMI and in ECOG score are earlier in the surgical modality than in the medical modality of ADT.

Conclusions

In the first 6 months of ADT, there are gains in BMI and ECOG scores. These gains are earlier with surgical modality of ADT.
Identification and characterization of transcribed enhancers during cerebellar development through enhancer RNA analysis
Authors: Ramirez Miguel , Robert Remi , Yeung Joanna , Wu Joshua , Abdalla-Wyse Ayasha ,   FANTOM 5 Consortium, Goldowitz Daniel
Published: June 2023

Background

The development of the brain requires precise coordination of molecular processes across many cell-types. Underpinning these events are gene expression programs which require intricate regulation by non-coding regulatory sequences known as enhancers. In the context of the developing brain, transcribed enhancers (TEs) regulate temporally-specific expression of genes critical for cell identity and differentiation. Transcription of non-coding RNAs at active enhancer sequences, known as enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), is tightly associated with enhancer activity and has been correlated with target gene expression. TEs have been characterized in a multitude of developing tissues, however their regulatory role has yet to be described in the context of embryonic and early postnatal brain development. In this study, eRNA transcription was analyzed to identify TEs active during cerebellar development, as a proxy for the developing brain. Cap Analysis of Gene Expression followed by sequencing (CAGE-seq) was conducted at 12 stages throughout embryonic and early postnatal cerebellar development.

Results

Temporal analysis of eRNA transcription identified clusters of TEs that peak in activity during either embryonic or postnatal times, highlighting their importance for temporally specific developmental events. Functional analysis of putative target genes identified molecular mechanisms under TE regulation revealing that TEs regulate genes involved in biological processes specific to neurons. We validate enhancer activity using in situ hybridization of eRNA expression from TEs predicted to regulate Nfib, a gene critical for cerebellar granule cell differentiation.

Conclusions

The results of this analysis provide a valuable dataset for the identification of cerebellar enhancers and provide insight into the molecular mechanisms critical for brain development under TE regulation. This dataset is shared with the community through an online resource (https://goldowitzlab.shinyapps.io/trans-enh-app/).
Laboratory risk factors for coexistent primary biliary cholangitis in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome: a retrospective study
Authors: Gao Xuan , Xiao Guangzhi , Yang Fengfan , Dou Rongrong , Xue Miao , Zhang Yingying , Zheng Zhaohui , Ding Jin
Published: June 2023

Background

Limited research exists on the laboratory characteristics of coexistent primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). This study aimed to investigate the laboratory risk factors for the coexistence of PBC in patients with SS.

Methods

Eighty-two patients with coexistent SS and PBC (median age 52.50 years) and 82 age- and sex-matched SS controls were retrospectively enrolled between July 2015 and July 2021. The clinical and laboratory characteristics of the two groups were compared. Laboratory risk factors for the coexistence of PBC in patients with SS were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Both groups had a similar prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disease, and interstitial lung disease. Compared with the SS group, patients in the SS + PBC group had higher levels of liver enzymes, immunoglobulins M (IgM), G2, and G3 (P < 0.05). The percentage of patients with an antinuclear antibody (ANA) titre > 1:10000 in the SS + PBC group was 56.1%, higher than that in the SS group (19.5%, P < 0.05). Additionally, cytoplasmic, centromeric, and nuclear membranous patterns of ANA and positive anti-centromere antibody (ACA) were observed more frequently in the SS + PBC group (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that elevated IgM levels, high ANA titre, cytoplasmic pattern, and ACA were independent risk factors for PBC coexistence in SS.

Conclusions

In addition to established risk factors, elevated IgM levels, positive ACA, and high ANA titre with cytoplasmic pattern provide clues to clinicians for the early screening and diagnosis of PBC in patients with SS.
Conventional manual technique of post placental IUD insertion versus intra-cesarean post placental introducer withdrawal IUD insertion technique: a new standardized technique for IUD insertion during cesarean section: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Seleem Mostafa , Sedik Mona M. , Megahed Azza M. M. , Nabil Hala
Published: June 2023

Background

Inserting IUDs during cesarean section reduces the need for more manipulation and discomfort. The current conventional manual technique for IUD insertion during cesarean section is not standardized with many modifications and high rates of expulsion, displacement, missed threads, and discontinuation. This study aims to find a standard technique for IUD insertion during cesarean section with the least possible problems, especially displacement and missed threads.

Methods

A randomized controlled study was conducted at Kasr Al-Ainy Maternity Hospital, Cairo University, Egypt. The study was performed over 12 months, from September 2020 to September 2021. Two groups of patients were selected; each group included 420 patients with a desire for IUD insertion during cesarean section. Group (A) (Control group) was subjected to a post-placental intrauterine device (Copper T380) during cesarean section using a conventional manual method; Group (B) (Study group): the IUD (Copper T380) was placed at the top of the uterine fundus using a new technique (intra-cesarean post placental introducer withdrawal IUD insertion technique).

Results

There was a significant statistical difference between the two groups regarding displacement of the IUDs at the end of puerperium, at 6 months, non-visibility of IUD threads, and continuation of use with p-value < 0.05. There was no significant statistical difference in the term of duration of surgery.

Conclusion

The new technique of post-placental IUD insertion can be the standard technique of intra-cesarean section IUD insertion as it is associated with more favorable outcomes among the included women in the form of lower incidence of IUD displacement, non-visibility of IUD threads, and higher rates of continuation without increasing the duration of surgery as compared with the conventional manual technique.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrial.gov ID: NCT05788354, registration date: 28/03/2023 (retrospectively registered).
Unmet supportive care needs of breast cancer survivors: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Fan Rongrong , Wang Lili , Bu Xiaofan , Wang Wenxiu , Zhu Jing
Published: June 2023

Background

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Though improved treatments and prolonged overall survival, breast cancer survivors (BCSs) persistently suffer from various unmet supportive care needs (USCNs) throughout the disease. This scoping review aims to synthesize current literature regarding USCNs among BCSs.

Methods

This study followed a scoping review framework. Articles were retrieved from Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Medline from inception through June 2023, as well as reference lists of relevant literature. Peer-reviewed journal articles were included if USCNs among BCSs were reported. Inclusion/exclusion criteria were adopted to screen articles’ titles and abstracts as well as to entirely assess any potentially pertinent records by two independent researchers. Methodological quality was independently appraised following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Content analytic approach and meta-analysis were performed for qualitative and quantitative studies respectively. Results were reported according to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews.

Results

A total of 10,574 records were retrieved and 77 studies were included finally. The overall risk of bias was low to moderate. The self-made questionnaire was the most used instrument, followed by The Short-form Supportive Care Needs Survey questionnaire (SCNS-SF34). A total of 16 domains of USCNs were finally identified. Social support (74%), daily activity (54%), sexual/intimacy (52%), fear of cancer recurrence/ spreading (50%), and information support (45%) were the top unmet supportive care needs. Information needs and psychological/emotional needs appeared most frequently. The USCNs was found to be significantly associated with demographic factors, disease factors, and psychological factors.

Conclusion

BCSs are experiencing a large number of USCNs in fearing of cancer recurrence, daily activity, sexual/intimacy, psychology and information, with proportions ranging from 45% to 74%. Substantial heterogeneity in study populations and assessment tools was observed. There is a need for further research to identify a standard evaluation tool targeted to USCNs on BCSs. Effective interventions based on guidelines should be formulated and conducted to decrease USCNs among BCSs in the future.
Investigating the intensity of social contacts associated with tuberculosis: a weighted networks model
Authors: Amoori Neda , Amini Payam , Cheraghian Bahman , Alavi Seyed Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Background

Tuberculosis is known as one of the principal health problems, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to visualize, statistically model, and describe the weighted networks to investigate the intensity of social contacts associated with tuberculosis.

Methods

In this case–control study, we applied weighted network analysis to assess the network of person-time spent in stores, workplaces, restaurants, mosques, Police bases, homes, hospitals, colleges, hairdressers, schools, contact homes, health centers, cinemas, parks, and markets. Modules will be determined based on the similarities between the variables in a topology overlap matrix. The most important variables will be found considering the association between each variable and module eigenvalues.

Results

The result shows the extracted modules of locations based on the connectivity followed by the person-time at each place. The correlation (p-value) between TB and the turquoise, blue, and brown modules was 0.058 (0.351), 0.004 (0.943), and 0.117 (0.039), respectively. The brown module is the most important one, demonstrating a significant connection between homes, contact homes, health centers, and hospitals. Therefore, an association was found between person-time in four places and the occurrence of TB.

Conclusion

The finding of this study showed that most transmission of tuberculosis infection occurs in homes, contact homes, health centers, and hospitals. These place evaluations allow the identification of people with more contact and in need of screening, so critically leading to the identification of more patients with active TB.
Do malpractice claim clinical case vignettes enhance diagnostic accuracy and acceptance in clinical reasoning education during GP training?
Authors: van Sassen Charlotte , Mamede Silvia , Bos Michiel , van den Broek Walter , Bindels Patrick , Zwaan Laura
Published: June 2023

Background

Using malpractice claims cases as vignettes is a promising approach for improving clinical reasoning education (CRE), as malpractice claims can provide a variety of content- and context-rich examples. However, the effect on learning of adding information about a malpractice claim, which may evoke a deeper emotional response, is not yet clear. This study examined whether knowing that a diagnostic error resulted in a malpractice claim affects diagnostic accuracy and self-reported confidence in the diagnosis of future cases. Moreover, suitability of using erroneous cases with and without a malpractice claim for CRE, as judged by participants, was evaluated.

Methods

In the first session of this two-phased, within-subjects experiment, 81 first-year residents of general practice (GP) were exposed to both erroneous cases with (M) and erroneous cases without (NM) malpractice claim information, derived from a malpractice claims database. Participants rated suitability of the cases for CRE on a five-point Likert scale. In the second session, one week later, participants solved four different cases with the same diagnoses. Diagnostic accuracy was measured with three questions, scored on a 0–1 scale: (1) What is your next step? (2) What is your differential diagnosis? (3) What is your most probable diagnosis and what is your level of certainty on this? Both subjective suitability and diagnostic accuracy scores were compared between the versions (M and NM) using repeated measures ANOVA.

Results

There were no differences in diagnostic accuracy parameters (M vs. NM next step: 0.79 vs. 0.77,p = 0.505; differential diagnosis 0.68 vs. 0.75,p = 0.072; most probable diagnosis 0.52 vs. 0.57,p = 0.216) and self-reported confidence (53.7% vs. 55.8%p = 0.390) of diagnoses previously seen with or without malpractice claim information. Subjective suitability- and complexity scores for the two versions were similar (suitability: 3.68 vs. 3.84,p = 0.568; complexity 3.71 vs. 3.88,p = 0.218) and significantly increased for higher education levels for both versions.

Conclusion

The similar diagnostic accuracy rates between cases studied with or without malpractice claim information suggests both versions are equally effective for CRE in GP training. Residents judged both case versions to be similarly suitable for CRE; both were considered more suitable for advanced than for novice learners.
Exploring nursing students’ perceptions from nursing role function (SP-NRF) during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ardabil Province: a cross sectional study from Iran
Authors: Ahmadi Fatemeh , Shaker Hamidreza , Eterafi Majid , Kamran Aziz
Published: June 2023

Background

Perception of nursing roles among nursing students significantly influences their active engagement in nursing processes and care delivery. However, there is evidence to suggest that students’ interest in and perceptions from the nursing profession at the undergraduate level are often insufficient.

Objective

This study aimed to assess nursing students’ perceptions of nursing role function and identify areas that require improvement.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 among nursing students in the third- and fourth-years from three faculties in the Ardabil Province. The participants were selected through census sampling. The data were collected through interviews with the Standardized Professional Nursing Role Function (SP-NRF) questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS-18 software at a significance level of less than 0.05.

Results

A total of 320 nursing students participated in this study. The mean score for nursing role perception was 223.1 ± 20.3 out of 255. The results indicated significant gender differences in the mean scores of perception of the nursing role function, particularly in the supportive, professional-moral care, and professional-educational dimensions. Women scored significantly higher than men did (P < .05). Additionally, students who obtained a mean score of 19 to 20 (A) had significantly higher total scores in perception of the nursing role function than other students. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between students’ interest in nursing and their perceived ability with nursing role perception (r = .282, P < .01) and all its dimensions.

Conclusion

Overall, nursing students demonstrated a favorable perception of nursing role function. However, their perception of mental and spiritual care was relatively weak. These findings highlight the need to review nursing education programs and incorporate the spiritual care dimension to enhance students’ understanding of and preparation for their role as nurses.
Resistance to aztreonam-avibactam due to a mutation of SHV-12 in Enterobacter
Authors: Wu Shikai , Ma Ke , Feng Yu , Zong Zhiyong
Published: June 2023

Aztreonam-avibactam is an important option against Enterobacterales producing metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs). We obtained an aztreonam-avibactam-resistant mutant of an MBL-producing Enterobacter mori strain by induced mutagenesis. Genome sequencing revealed an Arg244Gly (Ambler position) substitution of SHV-12 β-lactamase in the mutant. Cloning and susceptibility testing verified that the SHV-12 Arg244Gly substitution led to significantly reduced susceptibility to aztreonam-avibactam (MIC, from 0.5/4 to 4/4 mg/L) but with the loss of resistance to cephalosporins as tradeoff. Arg244 of SHV involves in the binding of avibactam by forming an arginine-mediated salt bridge and is a critical residue to interact with β-lactams. Molecular modeling analysis demonstrated that the Arg244Gly substitution hindered the binding of avibactam to SHV with higher binding energy (from − 5.24 to -4.32 kcal/mol) and elevated inhibition constant Ki (from 143.96 to 677.37 µM) to indicate lower affinity. This substitution, however, resulted in loss of resistance to cephalosporins as tradeoff by impairing substrate binding. This represents a new aztreonam-avibactam resistance mechanism.
Development of complemented comprehensive networks for rapid screening of repurposable drugs applicable to new emerging disease outbreaks
Authors: Nam Yonghyun , Lucas Anastasia , Yun Jae-Seung , Lee Seung Mi , Park Ji Won , Chen Ziqi , Lee Brian , Ning Xia , Shen Li , Verma Anurag , Kim Dokyoon
Published: June 2023

Background

Computational drug repurposing is crucial for identifying candidate therapeutic medications to address the urgent need for developing treatments for newly emerging infectious diseases. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has taught us the importance of rapidly discovering candidate drugs and providing them to medical and pharmaceutical experts for further investigation. Network-based approaches can provide repurposable drugs quickly by leveraging comprehensive relationships among biological components. However, in a case of newly emerging disease, applying a repurposing methods with only pre-existing knowledge networks may prove inadequate due to the insufficiency of information flow caused by the novel nature of the disease.

Methods

We proposed a network-based complementary linkage method for drug repurposing to solve the lack of incoming new disease-specific information in knowledge networks. We simulate our method under the controlled repurposing scenario that we faced in the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. First, the disease-gene-drug multi-layered network was constructed as the backbone network by fusing comprehensive knowledge database. Then, complementary information for COVID-19, containing data on 18 comorbid diseases and 17 relevant proteins, was collected from publications or preprint servers as of May 2020. We estimated connections between the novel COVID-19 node and the backbone network to construct a complemented network. Network-based drug scoring for COVID-19 was performed by applying graph-based semi-supervised learning, and the resulting scores were used to validate prioritized drugs for population-scale electronic health records-based medication analyses.

Results

The backbone networks consisted of 591 diseases, 26,681 proteins, and 2,173 drug nodes based on pre-pandemic knowledge. After incorporating the 35 entities comprised of complemented information into the backbone network, drug scoring screened top 30 potential repurposable drugs for COVID-19. The prioritized drugs were subsequently analyzed in electronic health records obtained from patients in the Penn Medicine COVID-19 Registry as of October 2021 and 8 of these were found to be statistically associated with a COVID-19 phenotype.

Conclusion

We found that 8 of the 30 drugs identified by graph-based scoring on complemented networks as potential candidates for COVID-19 repurposing were additionally supported by real-world patient data in follow-up analyses. These results show that our network-based complementary linkage method and drug scoring algorithm are promising strategies for identifying candidate repurposable drugs when new emerging disease outbreaks.
Novel method for highly multiplexed gene expression profiling of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) captured from the blood of women with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Farhang Ghahremani Morvarid , Seto Kelly Kai Yin , Cho Woohyun , Miller Michael Craig , Smith Paul , Englert David Frederick
Published: June 2023

Background

Enumeration of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) has proven clinical significance for monitoring patients with metastatic cancers. Multiplexed gene expression profiling of CTCs is a potential tool for assessing disease status and monitoring treatment response. The Parsortix® technology enables the capture and harvest of CTCs from blood based on cell size and deformability. The HyCEAD™ (Hybrid Capture Enrichment Amplification and Detection) assay enables simultaneous amplification of short amplicons for up to 100 mRNA targets, and the Ziplex™ instrument quantifies the amplicons for highly sensitive gene expression profiling down to single cell levels. The aim of the study was to functionally assess this system.

Methods

The HyCEAD/Ziplex platform was used to quantify the expression levels for 72 genes using as little as 20 pg of total RNA or a single cultured tumor cell. Assay performance was evaluated using cells or total RNA spiked into Parsortix harvests of healthy donor blood. The assay was also evaluated using total RNA obtained from Parsortix harvests of blood from metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients or healthy volunteers (HVs).

Results

Using genes with low expression in WBC RNA and/or in unspiked Parsortix harvests from HVs, the assay distinguished between the different breast cancer and ovarian cancer cell lines with as little as 20 pg of total RNA (equivalent to a single cell) in the presence of 1 ng of WBC RNA. Single cultured cells spiked into Parsortix harvests from 10 mL of HV blood were also detected and distinguished from each other. CVs from repeatability experiments were less than 20%. Hierarchical clustering of clinical samples differentiated most MBC patients from HVs.

Conclusion

HyCEAD/Ziplex provided sensitive quantification of expression of 72 genes from 20 pg of total RNA from cultured tumor cell lines or from single cultured tumor cells spiked into lysates from Parsortix harvests of HV blood. The HyCEAD/Ziplex platform enables the quantification of selected genes in the presence of residual nucleated blood cells in Parsortix harvests. The HyCEAD/Ziplex platform is an effective tool for multiplexed molecular characterization of mRNA in small numbers of tumor cells harvested from blood.
“So let me give you money, you give me what I want”: decision-making priorities around contraceptive method and source choice among young women in Kenya
Authors: Calhoun Lisa M. , Mandal Mahua , Onyango Bernard , Waga Erick , McGuire Courtney , van den Akker Thomas , Beňová Lenka , Delvaux Thérèse , Zulu Eliya M. , Speizer Ilene S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Many factors influence young women’s choice of contraceptive methods and where to source them, yet less is known about whether one of these choices (method or source) is prioritized and the relationship between these choices. This study qualitatively explored decision-making around contraceptive method and source choice among young women in Kenya.

Methods

In August–September 2019, 30 in-depth interviews were conducted with women ages 18–24 who had used two or more contraceptive methods and resided in three counties: Nairobi, Mombasa or Migori. Participants were recruited from public and private health facilities and pharmacies. Interview guides captured information about decision-making processes for each contraceptive method the respondent had ever used. Responses were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated into English, coded, and analyzed thematically.

Results

The majority of respondents knew which method they wanted to use prior to seeking it from a source. This was true for all types of methods that women ever used. Of the small number of respondents who selected their source first, most were in the post-partum period or experiencing side effects and sought counseling at a source before choosing a method.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of providing young women with high quality counseling that provides full information about contraceptive options and addresses that young women’s needs vary along the reproductive health continuum of care. This will ensure that young women have information to inform future contraceptive decision-making prior to seeking care.
Risk and protective factors associated with mental health status in an Italian sample of students during the fourth wave of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lanfredi Mariangela , Dagani Jessica , Geviti Andrea , Di Cosimo Federica , Bussolati Maria , Rillosi Luciana , Albini Donatella , Pizzi Marina , Ghidoni Roberta , Fazzi Elisa , Vita Antonio , Rossi Roberta
Published: June 2023

Background

It is well known that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global health crisis, especially for young people. However, most studies were conducted during the first waves of the pandemic. Few Italian studies specifically attempted to broadly assess young people’s mental health status during the fourth wave of the pandemic.

Methods

This study aimed at evaluating the mental health status among a group of Italian adolescents and young adults during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. 11,839 high school students and 15,000 university students (age range 14–25) were asked to complete a multidimensional online survey, of which 7,146 (26,6%) agreed to participate. The survey also included standardized measures for depression, anxiety, anger, somatic symptoms, resilience, loneliness and post-traumatic growth. Two separate clusters were identified through cluster analysis. Random forest, classification tree and logistic regressions analyses were applied to identify factors associated to a good or a poor level of mental health and, thus, to define students’ mental health profiles.

Results

Overall, the students in our sample showed high levels of psychopathology. The clustering methods performed identified two separate clusters reflecting groups of students with different psychological features, that we further defined as "poor mental health" and "good mental health". The random forest and the logistic regressions found that the most discriminating variables among those two groups were: UCLA Loneliness Scale score, self-harm behaviors, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10 score, satisfaction with family relationships, Fear of COVID-19 Scale score, gender and binge eating behaviors. The classification tree analysis identified students’ profiles, showing that, globally, poor mental health was defined by higher scores of loneliness and self-harm, followed by being of female gender, presenting binge eating behaviors and, finally, having unsatisfying family relationships.

Conclusions

The results of this study confirmed the major psychological distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in a large sample of Italian students, and provided further insights regarding those factors associated with a good or poor mental health status. Our findings suggest the importance of implementing programs targeting aspects that have been found to be associated to a good mental health.
The relationship between frailty and social participation: focus on subjective health
Authors: Shimizu Yuho , Suzuki Masashi , Hata Yukako , Sakaki Toshiro
Published: June 2023

Objective

Active participation of the older adults in the society is crucial; however, frailty prevents social participation. Meanwhile, many older adults participate daily in social activities, even with frailty. This study aims to examine whether older adults with frailty have lower social participation than those without frailty in Japan. We also investigated whether older adults with frailty and higher subjective health participate in society to the same extent as the general older population. This study included 1,082 Japanese individuals aged 65 years and older participating in the online survey. Participants answered questions on social participation, frailty, subjective health, and demographics.

Results

Participants in the robust group had higher social participation rates than those in the frailty and pre-frailty groups. Meanwhile, frail older participants with higher subjective health had similar social participation as the robust participants. Many older adults acquire frailty despite their individual effort. Meanwhile, improving subjective health may be effective, even with frailty. The relationship between subjective health, frailty, and social participation is primitive and further studies are needed.
Multivariate analysis reveals that BVDV field isolates do not show a close VN-based antigenic relationship to US vaccine strains
Authors: Mosena Ana Cristina S. , Ma Hao , Casas Eduardo , Dassanayake Rohana P. , Canal Cláudio W. , Neill John D. , Falkenberg Shollie M.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Evaluate bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) antigenicity by using virus neutralization titers (VNT) analyzed using the principal component analysis (PCA) from antisera generated against US-based vaccine strains against both US-origin field isolates and non-US-origin field isolates.

Results

Data from both independent analyses demonstrated that several US-origin and non-US-origin BVDV field isolates appear to be antigenically divergent from the US-based vaccine strains. Results from the combined analysis provided greater insight into the antigenic diversity observed among BVDV isolates. Data from this study further support genetic assignment into BVDV subgenotypes, as well as strains within subgenotypes is not representative of antigenic relatedness. PCA highlights isolates that are antigenically divergent from members of the same species and subgenotype and conversely isolates that belong to different subgenotypes have similar antigenic characteristics when using antisera from US-based vaccine isolates.
The facilitating role of phycospheric heterotrophic bacteria in cyanobacterial phosphonate availability and Microcystis bloom maintenance
Authors: Zhao Liang , Lin Li-Zhou , Zeng Ying , Teng Wen-Kai , Chen Meng-Yun , Brand Jerry J. , Zheng Ling-Ling , Gan Nan-Qin , Gong Yong-Hui , Li Xin-Yi , Lv Jin , Chen Ting , Han Bo-Ping , Song Li-Rong , Shu Wen-Sheng
Published: June 2023

Background

Phosphonates are the main components in the global phosphorus redox cycle. Little is known about phosphonate metabolism in freshwater ecosystems, although rapid consumption of phosphonates has been observed frequently. Cyanobacteria are often the dominant primary producers in freshwaters; yet, only a few strains of cyanobacteria encode phosphonate-degrading (C-P lyase) gene clusters. The phycosphere is defined as the microenvironment in which extensive phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria interactions occur. It has been demonstrated that phytoplankton may recruit phycospheric bacteria based on their own needs. Therefore, the establishment of a phycospheric community rich in phosphonate-degrading-bacteria likely facilitates cyanobacterial proliferation, especially in waters with scarce phosphorus. We characterized the distribution of heterotrophic phosphonate-degrading bacteria in field Microcystis bloom samples and in laboratory cyanobacteria “phycospheres” by qPCR and metagenomic analyses. The role of phosphonate-degrading phycospheric bacteria in cyanobacterial proliferation was determined through coculturing of heterotrophic bacteria with an axenic Microcystis aeruginosa strain and by metatranscriptomic analysis using field Microcystis aggregate samples.

Results

Abundant bacteria that carry C-P lyase clusters were identified in plankton samples from freshwater Lakes Dianchi and Taihu during Microcystis bloom periods. Metagenomic analysis of 162 non-axenic laboratory strains of cyanobacteria (consortia cultures containing heterotrophic bacteria) showed that 20% (128/647) of high-quality bins from eighty of these consortia encode intact C-P lyase clusters, with an abundance ranging up to nearly 13%. Phycospheric bacterial phosphonate catabolism genes were expressed continually across bloom seasons, as demonstrated through metatranscriptomic analysis using sixteen field Microcystis aggregate samples. Coculturing experiments revealed that although Microcystis cultures did not catabolize methylphosphonate when axenic, they demonstrated sustained growth when cocultured with phosphonate-utilizing phycospheric bacteria in medium containing methylphosphonate as the sole source of phosphorus.

Conclusions

The recruitment of heterotrophic phosphonate-degrading phycospheric bacteria by cyanobacteria is a hedge against phosphorus scarcity by facilitating phosphonate availability. Cyanobacterial consortia are likely primary contributors to aquatic phosphonate mineralization, thereby facilitating sustained cyanobacterial growth, and even bloom maintenance, in phosphate-deficient waters.
Characterization of volatile compounds of Gök Üzüm raisins produced from grapes pre-treated with different dipping solutions
Authors: Karakus Sinem , Kaya Ozkan , Hajizadeh Hanifeh Seyed , Gutiérrez-Gamboa Gastón , Ates Fadime , Turan Metin , Araya-Alman Miguel
Published: June 2023

Background

Raisins contain a wide range of secondary metabolites, including volatile compounds that may contribute to the health benefits and preference of consumers. To our knowledge, this is one of the first studies concerning the analysis of volatile compounds in raisin. The goal of this study was to compare volatile composition of Gök Üzüm (Vitis vinifera L.) raisins produced from grapes dried before the application of two pre-treatments solutions: wood ash (WA) and potassium carbonate (K2CO3).

Results

Gök Üzüm raisins produced from grapes dipped into the WA solution presented higher contents of most of the studied volatile compounds (including the total contents of C6 compounds, alcohols, benzenoids, esters, aldehydes, terpenes and C13 norisoprenoids) and lower contents of (Z)-2-hexenol and 2-hexenoic acid than the raisins produced from grapes dipped into K2CO solutions. Gök Üzüm raisins were characterized by fruity, floral and grass aromas according to their odor activity values. Drying Gök Üzüm grapes after the treatment of WA solutions promotes a higher aromatic composition compared to K2CO solutions.

Conclusion

These findings can greatly assist raisin producers in deciding which dipping solution to use before using a dipping solution to dry the grapes.

Graphical Abstract
Hydrocarbon selectivity enhancement through catalytic fast co-pyrolysis of almond shell and plastic blends
Authors: Alcazar-Ruiz A. , Sanchez-Silva L. , Dorado F.
Published: June 2023

Background

The aim of this article is to explore possible pathways for the synergistic optimization of bio-oil by the catalytic fast co-pyrolysis of almond shell (AS) and plastic residues (polyethylene, PE, and polystyrene, PS). Pyrolysis was carried out at 650 °C at a heating rate of 20 °C/ms at a residence time of 20 s. Hydrogen from the plastic promoted the decarboxylation of acids and decarbonylation of carbonyls and sugars from biomass waste.

Results

Co-pyrolysis results showed a fall in oxygen in the AS/plastics blends, whereas carbon yields increased as did the calorific value of the oil. As expected, AS/PE blends enhanced production of hydrocarbon fractions, especially olefins, with yields reaching 81.1%, whereas AS/PS blends enhanced formation of aromatic compounds. HZSM-5 assisted the increase of monocyclic aromatics content in AS/PE blends. AS/PS blends favoured the increased of aromatics (45% of total hydrocarbons for 1:2 AS/PE-HZ). For AS/PS-HZ blends toluene was enhanced as was the production of 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene.

Conclusions

These findings helped to gain a great insight into how catalytic co-fast pyrolysis of feedstocks can enhance the formation of value-added products, promoting their economic potential for agricultural exploitations.

Graphical Abstract
Changes in intensity and tracks of tropical cyclones crossing the central and southern Philippines from 1979 to 2020: an observational study
Authors: Petilla Clint Eldrick R. , Tonga Leia Pauline S. , Olaguera Lyndon Mark P. , Matsumoto Jun
Published: June 2023

Observational studies on the characteristics of tropical cyclones (TCs) crossing Mindanao and Visayas Islands, in the southern and central Philippines, respectively, remain limited. To address this research gap, this study investigates the changes in the translational speeds, the direction of motion, and intensities of 8 and 39 landfalling TCs crossing Mindanao and Visayas Islands, respectively, from 1979 to 2020. The intensities, translational speeds, and direction of motions of the TCs were characterized by their position before (approaching point; AP), during (landing point; LP), and after (departing point; DP) traversing through Mindanao and Visayas Islands. The results show a significant linear relationship in the intensity change between AP and DP, indicating a general weakening of TCs as they traverse both island groups. About 5 (29) TCs showed a decrease in intensity based on the maximum sustained wind speed (MSW) after crossing Mindanao (Visayas). The intensity of TCs with at least Typhoon category upon landfall, decreased on average (percentage) by about 23.33 kts (− 25.4%) and 24.29 kts (− 45.5%) after crossing Mindanao and Visayas, respectively. The MSW of weaker TCs decreased on average by about 6.67 kts (− 25.0%) and 8.13 kts (− 20.5%) after traversing Mindanao and Visayas, respectively. Cases with increased (1 TC for Mindanao and 6 TCs for Visayas) and no change in intensities (2 TCs for Mindanao and 4 TCs for Visayas) after crossing the island were also found. Landfalling TCs over Mindanao exhibited a characteristic where those deflected rightward (leftward) at AP tend to be deflected rightward (leftward) at DP, while no pattern was found for the TCs traversing Visayas. Furthermore, TCs moving across Mindanao and Visayas tend to decelerate as they approach and move away from the island. The findings of this study are essential for disaster mitigation and a greater understanding of the TCs behavior in terms of intensity, translational speed, and deflection.

(a, c) Frequency distribution of the intensity change over Mindanao and Visayas, respectively. (b, d) Scatter diagram showing the intensity change between AP and DP with respect to different TC categories over Mindanao and Visayas, respectively. The numbers inside the black circles indicate the total number of cases if it is larger than one. The numbers inside the parentheses at the bottom of the figure indicate the total number of cases for the different TC categories.
What benefit can be obtained from magnetic resonance imaging diagnosis with artificial intelligence in prostate cancer compared with clinical assessments?
Authors: Zhao Li-Tao , Liu Zhen-Yu , Xie Wan-Fang , Shao Li-Zhi , Lu Jian , Tian Jie , Liu Jian-Gang
Published: June 2023

The present study aimed to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) methodology based on magnetic resonance (MR) images to aid in the management of prostate cancer (PCa). To this end, we reviewed and summarized the studies comparing the diagnostic and predictive performance for PCa between AI and common clinical assessment methods based on MR images and/or clinical characteristics, thereby investigating whether AI methods are generally superior to common clinical assessment methods for the diagnosis and prediction fields of PCa. First, we found that, in the included studies of the present study, AI methods were generally equal to or better than the clinical assessment methods for the risk assessment of PCa, such as risk stratification of prostate lesions and the prediction of therapeutic outcomes or PCa progression. In particular, for the diagnosis of clinically significant PCa, the AI methods achieved a higher summary receiver operator characteristic curve (SROC-AUC) than that of the clinical assessment methods (0.87 vs. 0.82). For the prediction of adverse pathology, the AI methods also achieved a higher SROC-AUC than that of the clinical assessment methods (0.86 vs. 0.75). Second, as revealed by the radiomics quality score (RQS), the studies included in the present study presented a relatively high total average RQS of 15.2 (11.0–20.0). Further, the scores of the individual RQS elements implied that the AI models in these studies were constructed with relatively perfect and standard radiomics processes, but the exact generalizability and clinical practicality of the AI models should be further validated using higher levels of evidence, such as prospective studies and open-testing datasets.