bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Setting Up Medical Devices at Home: Easing the Patient’s Human Factors’ Burden by Creating A Great User Experience
Authors: Moll Robert
Published: September 2024

As ubiquitous as smartphones, apps, and related devices are these days, it’s still not always an easy process for a user to get comfortable with a new product. This is particularly true in the setup process of a new medical device, smartphone and companion app system. Such systems can be complex, and portions of the target population may not be well-versed in using smartphones and apps. A user’s lack of experience is something that we regularly see in the process of designing and developing medical device interfaces that are used by patients at home. This puts extra pressure on developers/manufacturers to get the setup process right, otherwise the end user will not be able to use the device at all.

How can developers/manufacturers ease the burden of a patient setting up a system at home? By paying close attention to steps like unboxing a device, providing a quick reference card, making app download easy, and onboarding the user, we can lessen the burden patients face, achieve a great user experience, and facilitate the beginning of an adherent relationship between the patient and the device.
Telemazing Collaboration: A Multiple Hospital Working Group to Develop Human Factors Guidelines for Centralized Cardiac Telemetry Monitoring
Authors: Butler Rebecca , Graske Amy , Jamil Melinda , Nare Matthew , Nystrom Daniel , Sanghavi Harsh , Peng Yuhao , Tetteh Emmanuel , Wolf Laurie , Jones Nate
Published: September 2024

Centralized cardiac telemetry monitoring introduces multiple complexities to the already complex environment of healthcare. Many aspects of setup and implementation of these systems can have negative impacts on the safety and effectiveness of their use. However, while there is much literature on the clinical side regarding which patients should be on telemetry, there is a lack of guidance on the ideal setup of the operational side of these systems. Human factors practitioners from several healthcare systems across the United States identified that similar issues were being faced by all of their hospitals, and that many of these issues can be informed by human factors research. This article summarizes the collaboration between these human factors practitioners to develop guidelines to inform the implementation of centralized cardiac telemetry monitoring. The team used virtual tools to facilitate an affinity diagramming session to identify themes amongst the telemetry-related issues faced by each represented healthcare system. These themes were further refined into topics and subtopics to guide the creation of specific guidelines. The process to date will be shared at the 2024 International Symposium on Human Factors and Ergonomics in Health Care to strategically gather feedback from others on the structure and use of the guidelines. This collaboration effort serves as a model for cohesively addressing complex issues faced across the industry.
Inter-Rater Reliability of Two Error Taxonomies
Authors: Jamil Melinda J. , Zastrow Rachel
Published: September 2024

Healthcare system patient safety departments often categorize the human and system failure mechanisms that contribute to patient safety events. Historically, Advocate Midwest Region (MWR) used a framework developed by Press Ganey Associates, LLC (2021) (Taxonomy 1). A high level of inter-rater reliability (IRR) is required to identify failure trends and patterns, permitting identification of causes of patient safety violations and ultimately intervention to improve those conditions. MWR combined with Advocate Southeast Region (SER) in 2023. SER had previously used Taxonomy 1, but recently developed a new taxonomy (Taxonomy 2) basing proximate (human) failures on the Model of Human Information Processing (Wickens et al., 2021) and system failures mechanisms on the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model (Carayon et al., 2006). The organizational merger of MWR and SER provided an opportunity to compare IRR of the two taxonomies. A research team coded 21 sample safety event causal statements in both taxonomies, with representation from all major categories in each taxonomy. All items were entered in an online testing platform. Eight Patient Safety Team volunteers received a 1-hour introduction to Taxonomy 2 and a reference guide with definitions, similar to their reference guide used for Taxonomy 1. They then coded the statements, and were randomized to start with either taxonomy 1 or 2. Fleiss’ Kappa for Taxonomy 1 Individual Failure Modes and System Failure Modes were 0.468 and 0.428 respectively, or in the range considered to have moderate reliability of agreement (0.41 – 0.60). Kappa for Taxonomy 2 Proximate Failure Mechanisms was higher at 0.722, or in the range considered to have good reliability of agreement (0.61 to 0.80). Kappa for Taxonomy 2 System Failure Mechanisms was slightly higher at 0.552, still in the range considered to have moderate reliability of agreement (0.41-0.060). Patient Safety teammates using Taxonomy 2 had higher IRR even with limited training and experience with the new taxonomy.
Retained Surgical Sponges: Systematic Root Cause Analysis of 652 Reported Cases Using Data Analytics
Authors: Tabibzadeh Maryam , Kumari Nitya
Published: September 2024

Annually, more than three million people die globally due to unsafe care, with one in ten patients being harmed while receiving care. According to a study by Johns Hopkins, an average of 251,454 Americans die every year from medical errors, ranking it the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer. Among different medical errors, retained foreign objects are one of the most common sentinel events. This study investigates 652 instances of retained surgical sponges reported to The Joint Commission from 2010 to the second quarter of 2020, using data analytics methods. Leadership, Communication, and Human Factors have been identified as the top three root causes of those incidents. Our recommendations focus on cultivating safety culture, enhancing leadership, refining communication, and establishing robust policies. Hospitals must prioritize patient safety, allocate budgets for comprehensive training, and implement clear communication guidelines. Standardized operating procedures and staff compliance are also paramount for error prevention.
On the potential for human-centered, cognitively inspired AI to bridge the gap between optimism and reality for autonomous robotics in healthcare: a respectful critique
Authors: Tulk Jesso Stephanie , Greene Christopher , Zhang Shiqi , Booth Amy , DiFabio Michael , Babalola Grace , Adegbemijo Adeola , Sarkar Sumantra
Published: September 2024

Historically, the fields of computer science, cognitive science, and neuroscience have been tightly linked. To date, this collaboration has yielded major advances in how the brain and mind are understood, as well as the ways in which artificial minds can be constructed to serve as new collaborators to humans. Yet there are still significant gaps between the capabilities of state-of-the-art autonomous robots and the expectations developed by real users who are now encountering autonomous robots on the job. We present our views as well as a case study of our evaluation of two autonomous robots intended to aid nurses within hospital settings: Moxi and TUG. Both cobots were originally considered for procurement by our collaborating healthcare system,UHS, at which time our team began the process of trying to systematically vet each option to aid in the decision making process. What we found was a lack of evidence on either platform in academic literature, which led us to analyze user comments on social media. In order to improve the fit of autonomous robots into human environments, research must be conducted and evidence must be shared, and the Human Factors community can aid in this effort
Racial Discrimination and Mental Health among Asian Americans during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Swartz Teresa Toguchi , Dush Claire M. Kamp , Han Xiaowen , Berrigan Miranda N. , Manning Wendy D. , Nguyen Katie
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating health, economic, and social effects on people throughout the American society. At the same time, racism spread alongside the virus. As China was blamed for COVID-19, Asian Americans became targets of prejudice and discrimination. In this study, we document the racism experienced by Asian Americans during the pandemic and explore its link to mental health. Using the National Couples’ Health and Time Study’s Asian American oversample, we investigate the relationship between discrimination and COVID stress and mental health outcomes during the pandemic (anxiety, depression, and life satisfaction). We consider potential moderating variables (racial/ethnic identity centrality, community support, relationship satisfaction, and social support). We find among Asian American respondents that higher levels of reported discrimination and COVID-19 stress were associated with more depressive symptoms, anxiety, and lower life satisfaction. Higher social support and relationship satisfaction were associated with better well-being, but we found little evidence of moderation. As we move beyond the pandemic, researchers should continue to document the persistence and variability of anti-Asian discrimination, its impact on Asian American mental health and well-being, and potential protections and interventions.
Language Matters: Exploring Preferred Terms for Diverse Populations
Authors: Fernandez-Sanchez Higinio , Marfo Emmanuel Akwasi , Santa Maria Diane , Mumba Mercy
Published: September 2024

This article explores the significance of employing preferred terms and inclusive language in research practices concerning diverse populations. It highlights how inappropriate terminology can lead to labeling, stereotyping, and stigma, particularly for equity-denied groups. The study aimed to identify and analyze terminology preferences for diverse communities by major international organizations. Through a systematic environmental scan methodology, data were collected from 12 prominent organizations. The results indicate a concerted effort toward adopting inclusive language, with organizations favoring respectful and accurate terminology. For instance, terms like “people made vulnerable by systemic inequities” and “migrant workers” were preferred over outdated or stigmatizing alternatives. The discussion emphasizes the importance of identifying conflicting terms and trends in terminology preferences over time. We recommend prioritizing the use of preferred terms to promote respectful and accurate discourse, with a focus on person-centered language. Ultimately, the findings underscore the critical role of language in shaping perceptions and attitudes toward diverse communities, and advocate for continued efforts to promote inclusivity and equity in research, policy, and practice.
Comparing the Clinical Outcomes of Percutaneous Cheilectomy to Open Cheilectomy With Moberg Osteotomy for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus
Authors: DiGiovanni Grace M. , El Masry Seif , Mizher Rami , Jones Agnes , Johnson A. Holly , Ellis Scott J. , Conti Matthew S.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Both an open cheilectomy with a Moberg osteotomy and percutaneous cheilectomy have been successfully used to treat hallux rigidus and preserve motion. However, there have been no studies that have compared these 2 procedures using validated patient-reported outcomes such as the Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System.

Methods:

A retrospective review of hallux rigidus patients between January 2016 and July 2021 collected 48 percutaneous cheilectomy (PC) patients and 71 open cheilectomy with Moberg (OCM) patients. Preoperative and minimum 1-year postoperative PROMIS scores were collected.

Results:

The OCM and PC cohorts did not have significant differences in their postoperative PROMIS scores. Both cohorts had modest but significant improvements postoperatively in the physical function, pain interference, and pain intensity domains. The OCM group had a larger degree of improvement in physical function, pain interference, and pain intensity ( P = .015, .011, .001, respectively). No significant difference was identified in the reoperation rate.

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing an OCM had worse preoperative PROMIS scores and a modestly greater change in patient-reported outcomes than patients undergoing a PC.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective review.
Changes in multimorbidity among hospitalized adults in the US
Authors: Loyd Christine , Picken Lauren , Sanders Richelle , Zhang Yue , Kennedy Richard E. , Brown Cynthia J.
Published: September 2024

Objective

This investigation examines burden of comorbidity measured by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) among inpatients based on age, sex, and race.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of 2012-2018 US NIS datasets. Participants were inpatients 55y+. ICD-9/10 codes for admitting diagnoses were used to calculate disease burden using the CCI and ECI. Unweighted mean CCI and ECI scores were compared across demographic variables.

Results

An increase in mean CCI and ECI scores across age, sex, and races (p<.001) was identified. Compared to the youngest age group (55-59y), all age groups had higher mean CCI and ECI adjusting for time (p<.001). Increases were greatest in older age groups until age 80-84 for CCI and 85-89 for ECI. The female group had lower CCI adjusting for time (p<.001) compared to males. There was no difference between sex groups in mean ECI (p=.409). Compared with the White group, all other race groups had higher mean CCI adjusting for time (p<.001). Black inpatients had the highest CCI followed by Native American inpatients. Findings were similar for ECI, but with no difference between Hispanic and White groups (p=.434).

Conclusions

Growing multimorbidity burden among adult inpatients across age, sex, and race supports the continued need for programs for preventing and reducing multimorbidity, especially among communities that experience health inequity including older, Black, and Native American patients.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Fecal Incontinence in Post-Menopausal Women in India
Authors: Sridhar Shriya , Jain Mayank
Published: September 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of fecal incontinence (FI) in post-menopausal women and its risk factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out from May 2022 to May 2023. All women in the post-menopausal age group attending outpatient services were given a simple questionnaire to assess the presence of FI and likely risk factors.

Results

A total of 728 women formed the study group (median age 58, range 45-84 years). FI was reported by 10.1 % of respondents. Women with FI were significantly more likely to have vaginal delivery ( P < .0001), presence of one or more comorbid diseases ( P = .0001), previous abdominal surgery ( P = .01), and diarrheal stools ( P = .0009). The odds of developing FI were highest for vaginal delivery, followed by the presence of co-morbid diseases.

Conclusion

The prevalence of FI was 10.1%. History of vaginal delivery, previous abdominopelvic surgery, diarrheal stools, and comorbid diseases were significantly associated with FI.
Multiscale modelling and characterization of bonded repaired sandwich composite facing sheet under static loading
Authors: Quader Niaz , Muthu SD Jacob
Published: September 2024

Prediction of composite materials failure is a valuable resource for ensuring structural integrity of aerospace structures. For the experimental part of the study, the sandwich specimens were fabricated using two aluminium cores, a Nomex core sandwiched between tool-facing and bag-facing sheets. A damaged slot was introduced and thereafter repaired with filler and repaired plies on the tool-facing sheet. The bonded-repaired sandwich composite facing sheet specimens were tested using a four-point bending setup under static loading conditions. A Multiscale Modelling (MSM) approach was developed to characterize the failure of a bonded-repaired sandwich composite tool-facing sheet. The MSM approach bridged three different length scales such as micro, meso and macro scales. The data processing and information transfer between the scales was facilitated by Visual Basic Applications scripts. Comparisons of micro, meso and micro-scale results were presented for both MSM and experimentation to validate the proposed MSM failure characterization approach. Numerical and fractographical results from MSM and experimentation matched very well for all three scales. In conclusion, the MSM failure characterization approach performed well against the experiment. It presents an opportunity to use an alternative composite materials failure characterization method for future research.
Identifying limitations to exercise with incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing: a scoping review
Authors: Staes Michaël , Gyselinck Iwein , Goetschalckx Kaatje , Troosters Thierry , Janssens Wim
Published: September 2024

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is a comprehensive and invaluable assessment used to identify the mechanisms that limit exercise capacity. However, its interpretation remains poorly standardised. This scoping review aims to investigate which limitations to exercise are differentiated by the use of incremental CPET in literature and which criteria are used to identify them. We performed a systematic, electronic literature search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science and Scopus. All types of publications that reported identification criteria for at least one limitation to exercise based on clinical parameters and CPET variables were eligible for inclusion. 86 publications were included, of which 57 were primary literature and 29 were secondary literature. In general, at the level of the cardiovascular system, a distinction was often made between a normal physiological limitation and a pathological one. Within the respiratory system, ventilatory limitation, commonly identified by a low breathing reserve, and gas exchange limitation, mostly identified by a high minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production slope and/or oxygen desaturation, were often described. Multiple terms were used to describe a limitation in the peripheral muscle, but all variables used to identify this limitation lacked specificity. Deconditioning was a frequently mentioned exercise limiting factor, but there was no consensus on how to identify it through CPET. There is large heterogeneity in the terminology, the classification and the identification criteria of limitations to exercise that are distinguished using incremental CPET. Standardising the interpretation of CPET is essential to establish an objective and consistent framework.
Fine particulate matter manipulates immune response to exacerbate microbial pathogenesis in the respiratory tract
Authors: Ma Jason , Chiu Ya-Fang , Kao Chih-Chen , Chuang Chun-Ning , Chen Chi-Yuan , Lai Chih-Ho , Kuo Ming-Ling
Published: September 2024

Particulate matter with a diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) poses a substantial global challenge, with a growing recognition of pathogens contributing to diseases associated with exposure to PM2.5. Recent studies have focused on PM2.5, which impairs the immune cells in response to microbial infections and potentially contributes to the development of severe diseases in the respiratory tract. Accordingly, changes in the respiratory immune function and microecology mediated by PM2.5are important factors that enhance the risk of microbial pathogenesis. These factors have garnered significant interest. In this review, we summarise recent studies on the potential mechanisms involved in PM2.5-mediated immune system disruption and exacerbation of microbial pathogenesis in the respiratory tract. We also discuss crucial areas for future research to address the gaps in our understanding and develop effective strategies to combat the adverse health effects of PM2.5.
Comparison of Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS), Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) for early prediction of septic shock in diabetic patients in Emergency Departments
Authors: Liengswangwong Wijittra , Siriwannabhorn Ranchana , Leela-Amornsin Sittichok , Yuksen Chaiyaporn , Sanguanwit Pitsucha , Duangsri Chonthicha , Kusonkhum Nusara , Saelim Parnthap
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Sepsis is a severe medical condition that can be life-threatening. If sepsis progresses to septic shock, the mortality rate increases to around 40%, much higher than the 10% mortality observed in sepsis. Diabetes increases infection and sepsis risk, making management complex. Various scores of screening tools, such as Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS), Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS II), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II), are used to predict the severity or mortality rate of disease. Our study aimed to compare the effectiveness and optimal cutoff points of these scores. We focused on the early prediction of septic shock in patients with diabetes in the Emergency Department (ED).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to collect data on patients with diabetes. We collected prediction factors and MEWS, SOFA, SAPS II and APACHE II scores to predict septic shock in these patients. We determined the optimal cutoff points for each score. Subsequently, we compared the identified scores with the gold standard for diagnosing septic shock by applying the Sepsis-3 criteria.

Results

Systolic blood pressure (SBP), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), pH, and lactate concentrations were significant predictors of septic shock (p < 0.001). The SOFA score performed well in predicting septic shock in patients with diabetes. The area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve for the SOFA score was 0.866 for detection within 48 h and 0.840 for detection after 2 h of admission to the ED, with the optimal cutoff score of ≥ 6.

Conclusion

SBP, SpO2, GCS, pH, and lactate concentrations are crucial for the early prediction of septic shock in patients with diabetes. The SOFA score is a superior predictor for the onset of septic shock in patients with diabetes compared with MEWS, SAPS II, and APACHE II scores. Specifically, a cutoff of ≥ 6 in the SOFA score demonstrates high accuracy in predicting shock within 48 h post-ED visit and as early as 2 h after ED admission.
The use of nonpharmacological interventions for chronic pain treatment in community-dwelling older adults with a certified need for care
Authors: Koios Daniela , Kuhnert Ronny , Dräger Dagmar , Wenzel Arlett , Kreutz Reinhold , Budnick Andrea
Published: September 2024

Background

Chronic pain is a major health issue and rapid population ageing exacerbates the burden to health systems in countries like Germany. Nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) are essential in pain care and the prioritization of active NPIs is emphasized in guidelines. This paper examines the utilization of NPIs for chronic pain management in community-dwelling older adults with a certified need of care in Berlin, Germany.

Methods

Cross-sectional data was collected through standardized face-to-face surveys with older adults (≥65 years), using validated instruments (e.g., Brief Pain Inventory), and structured lists for NPI utilization. Categorization into active and passive NPIs was performed through a literature-based, iterative process by an interdisciplinary team. For not normally distributed data, non-parametric tests were used as appropriate. Logistic regression was conducted for multivariate analysis.

Results

In total, 250 participants were included in this analysis (aged 65-104, x̅ = 81.8, 68.8% female). Most (92%) use NPIs for chronic pain management: 85.6% use active NPIs, 50.4% active movement and only 5.6% use solely passive approaches. Most common NPIs are distraction, thermotherapy/compresses, and physiotherapy. The odds of utilizing physiotherapy are three times higher for those with high educational status when compared to those with low education while those with low educational status had higher odds of using thermotherapy/compresses.

Conclusions

In our sample, most community-dwelling older adults with a certified need of care use active NPIs for chronic pain management with about half using active movement approaches. Considering the high vulnerability of this population, physiotherapy (in the form of therapeutic exercise) is a particularly appropriate intervention, and it was the third most frequent NPI in our sample. However, there is a social gradient in the utilization of physiotherapy for chronic pain management which might be rooted in issues around awareness, appeal, and access to such measures. It is important to take socioeconomic differences into account when planning the care for older chronic pain patients but also when designing research or user-friendly guidelines for this target group.

Trial registration

Ethical approval from the Ethics Committee of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin (EA1/368/14) and study registration with the Central Study Register (ZSR no. 20009093).
Heteroaryl derivatives of suvorexant as OX1R selective PET ligand candidates: Cu-mediated 18F-fluorination of boroxines, in vitro and initial in vivo evaluation
Authors: Bolik Kim-Viktoria , Hellmann Jan , Maschauer Simone , Neu Eduard , Einsiedel Jürgen , Riss Patrick , Vogg Nora , König Jörg , Fromm Martin F. , Hübner Harald , Gmeiner Peter , Prante Olaf
Published: September 2024

Background

The orexin receptor (OXR) plays a role in drug addiction and is aberrantly expressed in colorectal tumors. Subtype-selective OXR PET ligands suitable for in vivo use have not yet been reported. This work reports the development of 18F-labeled OXR PET ligand candidates derived from the OXR antagonist suvorexant and the OX1R-selective antagonist JH112.

Results

Computational analysis predicted that fluorine substitution (1e) and introduction of the fluorobenzothiazole scaffold (1f) would be suitable for maintaining high OX1R affinity. After multi-step synthesis of 1a–1f, in vitro OXR binding studies confirmed the molecular dynamics calculations and revealed single-digit nanomolar OX1R affinities for 1a–f, ranging from 0.69 to 2.5 nM. The benzothiazole 1f showed high OX1R affinity (Ki = 0.69 nM), along with 77-fold subtype selectivity over OX2R. Cu-mediated 18F-fluorination of boroxine precursors allowed for a shortened reaction time of 5 min to provide the non-selective OXR ligand [18F]1c and its selective OX1R congener [18F]1f in activity yields of 14% and 22%, respectively, within a total synthesis time of 52–76 min. [18F]1c and [18F]1f were stable in plasma and serum in vitro, with logD7.4 of 2.28 ([18F]1c) and 2.37 ([18F]1f), and high plasma protein binding of 66% and 77%, respectively. Dynamic PET imaging in rats showed similar brain uptake of [18F]1c (0.17%ID/g) and [18F]1f (0.15%ID/g). However, preinjection of suvorexant did not significantly block [18F]1c or [18F]1f uptake in the rat brain. Pretreatment with cyclosporine A to study the role of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in limiting brain accumulation moderately increased brain uptake of [18F]1c and [18F]1f. Accordingly, in vitro experiments demonstrated that the P-gp inhibitor zosuquidar only moderately inhibited polarized, basal to apical transport of 1c (p < 0.05) and had no effect on the transport of 1f, indicating that P-gp does not play a relevant role in brain accumulation of [18F]1c and [18F]1f in vivo.

Conclusions

The in vitro and in vivo results of [18F]1c and [18F]1f provide a solid basis for further development of suitable OXR PET ligands for brain imaging.
Innate immune response in acute critical illness: a narrative review
Authors: Stiel Laure , Gaudet Alexandre , Thietart Sara , Vallet Hélène , Bastard Paul , Voiriot Guillaume , Oualha Mehdi , Sarton Benjamine , Kallel Hatem , Brechot Nicolas , Kreitmann Louis , Benghanem Sarah , Joffre Jérémie , Jouan Youenn ,   la Commission de Recherche Translationnelle de la Société de Réanimation en Langue Française
Published: September 2024

Background

Activation of innate immunity is a first line of host defense during acute critical illness (ACI) that aims to contain injury and avoid tissue damages. Aberrant activation of innate immunity may also participate in the occurrence of organ failures during critical illness. This review aims to provide a narrative overview of recent advances in the field of innate immunity in critical illness, and to consider future potential therapeutic strategies.

Main text

Understanding the underlying biological concepts supporting therapeutic strategies modulating immune response is essential in decision-making. We will develop the multiple facets of innate immune response, especially its cellular aspects, and its interaction with other defense mechanisms. We will first describe the pathophysiological mechanisms of initiation of innate immune response and its implication during ACI. We will then develop the amplification of innate immunity mediated by multiple effectors. Our review will mainly focus on myeloid and lymphoid cellular effectors, the major actors involved in innate immune-mediated organ failure. We will third discuss the interaction and integration of innate immune response in a global view of host defense, thus considering interaction with non-immune cells through immunothrombosis, immunometabolism and long-term reprogramming via trained immunity. The last part of this review will focus on the specificities of the immune response in children and the older population.

Conclusions

Recent understanding of the innate immune response integrates immunity in a highly dynamic global vision of host response. A better knowledge of the implicated mechanisms and their tissue-compartmentalization allows to characterize the individual immune profile, and one day eventually, to develop individualized bench-to-bedside immunomodulation approaches as an adjuvant resuscitation strategy.
Is money velocity pro-cyclical? The case of India
Authors: Sud Nandini
Published: September 2024

Monetary targeting served as a useful tool for conducting monetary policy until 1980s, but the instability in the relationship between money and nominal income led to its abandonment by most economies. One way of measuring this relationship is money velocity, defined as the ratio of nominal income to money. The purpose of the present study is to show that if short-run cyclical factors are accounted for, money velocity function becomes stable and thus any change in monetary aggregates will lead to predictable change in nominal income and therefore inflation. In such a scenario, monetary targeting can serve as a useful tool in the conduct of monetary policy. The study utilizes quarterly data from 1996:Q2 to 2020:Q1 and time series methodology to conduct empirical analysis. Findings show that money velocity and all its identified determinants exhibit pro-cyclical behaviour. After accounting for these determinants, money velocity has been found to be stable. The direction of causality runs from money velocity to rate of interest to investment to GDP. Thus, when formulating monetary and fiscal policies, policymakers can monitor the short-term cyclical patterns in money velocity as an indicator of forthcoming expansionary or contractionary conditions in the economy to design effective policies.
Exploring the usefulness of the INLA model in predicting levels of crime in the City of Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Coleman Toshka , Mokilane Paul , Rangata Mapitsi , Holloway Jenny , Botha Nicolene , Koen Renee , Dudeni-Tlhone Nontembeko
Published: September 2024

Crime prediction serves as a valuable tool for deriving insightful information that can inform policy decisions at both operational and strategic tiers. This information can be used to identify high-crime areas, and optimise resource allocation and personnel management for crime prevention. Traditionally, techniques such as the Poisson model and regression analysis have been widely used for crime prediction. However, recent statistical advancements have introduced Integrated Nested Laplace Approximations (INLA) as a promising alternative for spatial and temporal data analysis. This study focuses on crime prediction using the INLA model. Specifically, the first-order autoregressive model under the INLA modelling framework is employed on longitudinal data for crime predictions in different regions of the City of Johannesburg, South Africa. The model parameters and hyperparameters considering space and time are estimated through the INLA model. In this work, the suitability and performance of the INLA model for crime prediction is assessed, which effectively captures spatial and temporal patterns. This study contributes to research by first introducing a novel approach for South African crime prediction. Secondly, it develops a model using no demographic information other than clustering attributes as an exogenous variable. Thirdly, it quantifies prediction uncertainty. Finally, it addresses data scarcity through demonstrating how INLA can provide reliable crime predictions, where conventional methods are limited. Based on our findings, the INLA model ranked areas by crime levels, obtaining a 29.3% Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and 0.8 $$R^2$$

R
2

value for crime predictions. These findings and contributions presents the potential of INLA in advancing evidence-based decision-making for crime prevention.
Insight of effects of air quality and sustainable aviation fuel blend on energy saving and emission reduction in airport
Authors: Liu Ziyu , Yu Sha , Yang Xiaoyi
Published: September 2024

Air quality in airport attracts a widespread attention due to the emission of GHGs and pollutants related with aircraft flight. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has confirmed PM2.5 reduction due to free of aromatics and sulphur, and thus air quality improvement in airport is prospected by SAF blend. Two types of SAF were assessed the potential of energy saving and emission reduction by ZF850 jet engine. FT fuel is characterized with only paraffins without aromatics and cycloparaffins while HCHJ fuels is characterized with no aromatics. The descend of air quality and SAF blend were both investigated the effect on the engine performance and emission characteristic. The critical parameters were extracted from fuel compositions and air pollutants. Ambient air with a higher PM2.5 could lead to the rise of engine emission especially in UHC and PM2.5 despite at the low thrust setting and high thrust setting, and even couple with 3.2% rise in energy consumption and 1% reduction in combustion efficiency. CO, NO and NO2 in ambient air show less influence on engine performance and emission characteristic than PM2.5. Both types of SAF blend were observed significant reductions in PM2.5 and UHC. PM2.5 reduction obtained 37.9%—99.8% by FT blend and 0.64%-93.9% by HCHJ blend through the whole trust settings. There are almost 6.67% positive benefit in TSFC through the whole thrust setting by 7% FT blend. The effects of air quality and SAF blend on engine emission present significant changes on PM and UHC but the slight change on CO and NOx. By SAF blend, the energy saving and pollutant reduction obtained could be both benefit for air quality improvement in airport and further reduce engine emission as the feedback of less pollutants in ambient air.

Graphical Abstract
Hormonal influence: unraveling the impact of sex hormones on vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Jia Keran , Luo Xin , Yi Jingyan , Zhang Chunxiang
Published: September 2024

Sex hormones play a pivotal role as endocrine hormones that exert profound effects on the biological characteristics and vascular function of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). By modulating intracellular signaling pathways, activating nuclear receptors, and regulating gene expression, sex hormones intricately influence the morphology, function, and physiological state of VSMCs, thereby impacting the biological properties of vascular contraction, relaxation, and growth. Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal phenotypic changes in VSMCs contribute to the initiation of vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis. Therefore, understanding the factors governing phenotypic alterations in VSMCs and elucidating the underlying mechanisms can provide crucial insights for refining interventions targeted at vascular diseases. Additionally, the varying levels of different types of sex hormones in the human body, influenced by sex and age, may also affect the phenotypic conversion of VSMCs. This review aims to explore the influence of sex hormones on the phenotypic switching of VSMCs and the development of associated vascular diseases in the human body.

Graphical Abstract
Biochemical and functional groups characteristics of tea blends from Ficus capensis and Justicia secunda
Authors: Uchegbu Nneka Nkechi , Fasuan Temitope Omolayo , Onuoha Nchekwube Love , Adepeju Adefisola Bola
Published: September 2024

Tea is one of the most consumed drinks in the world, second only to water, and is renowned for its wide range of health benefits.This study examined the development of tea blends from blends of Ficus capensis, and Justicias ecunda leaves. Dried leaves of F. capensis and J. Secunda were milled, sieved, and processed into tea using a three-level factorial design. The process was modelled and optimized. The tea was evaluated for physicochemical, phenolic compounds profile, antioxidants, and functional groups using standard procedures. The blood-boosting potentials of the herbal tea blends were investigated through animal experiment and haematological evaluations were carried out on the fed animals. The results gave the optimal extracts blends of 48 g/100 g of F. capensis and 52 g/100 g of J. secunda. Antioxidants showed 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazl value of 6464.95 ± 1.97 µmol Trolox equivalents/100 g, ferric reducing power (40.13 ± 0.07 mmol Fe2+/100 g), and metal chelating (57.40 ± 0.62%). Physicochemical property showed total dissolved solids value of 6.51 ± 0.11 mg/g, *L (78.35 ± 0.42), *a (3.14 ± 0.09), and*b (13.57 ± 0.12). Phenolic compounds profile showed the presence of epicatechin (115.63 ± 0.052 mg/100 g), which have been associated with ability to improve healthy-living and lower the risk of some degenerative health issues. The in vivo results showed that developed tea was able to recover up to 95.28% of the packed cell volume, red blood cell (94.78%), and haemoglobin (97.52%), which compared well with the commercial product. The study showed the potential application of F. Capensis and J. Secunda leaves extracts in the formulation of functional beverage. The formulation procedures is scalable and has domestic and industrial applications. The tea blend could serve as a functional food ingredient and beverage to improve human health.

Graphical Abstract
When the heart and hands tell a story: an intriguing case of Holt–Oram syndrome
Authors: Atlas Ilyas , Zagdan Soukaina , Megzari Mohamed , Arous Salim , Drighil Abdenasser
Published: September 2024

Background

Holt–Oram syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the TBX5 gene, combining skeletal and cardiac malformations. Vital prognosis depends essentially on cardiac involvement, while skeletal malformations determine functional prognosis.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a young patient aged 49, with no particular history, who presented to the emergency department with de novo congestive heart failure. Clinical examination revealed not only signs of heart failure, but also malformations such as triphalangia of the left thumb, prono-supination defects of both forearms and dorsolumbar scoliosis. The electrocardiogram showed that an atypical atrial flutter and transthoracic echocardiography revealed an atrial septal defect. We also performed a spinal scan to assess the severity of the scoliosis. Genetic studies confirmed a TBX5 gene mutation in the patient, and family screening revealed no similar cases in the family. Management consisted mainly of pharmacological treatment of heart failure, in addition to scoliosis management.

Conclusion

Holt–Oram syndrome is a rare genetic disorder which should be suspected in the presence of any upper limb anomaly associated with cardiac malformation and confirmed by genetic study. A family investigation is necessary after diagnosis, because of autosomal dominant inheritance.
Relationship between the inner setting of CFIR and the delivery of the Healthy School Recognized Campus initiative: a mixed-methods analysis
Authors: Schaefers Allyson , Xin Lucy , Butler Paula , Gardner Julie , MacMillan Uribe Alexandra L. , Rethorst Chad D. , Rolke Laura , Seguin-Fowler Rebecca A. , Szeszulski Jacob
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Healthy School Recognized Campus (HSRC) is a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension initiative that promotes the delivery of multiple evidence-based physical activity and nutrition programs in schools. Simultaneous delivery of programs as part of HSRC can result in critical implementation challenges. The study examines how the inner setting constructs from the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) impact HSRC program delivery.

Methods

We surveyed (n = 26) and interviewed (n = 20) HSRC implementers (n = 28) to identify CFIR inner setting constructs related to program acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility. Using a concurrent mixed-methods design, we coded interviews using the CFIR codebook, administered an inner setting survey, tested for relationships between constructs and implementation outcomes via chi-square tests, and compared quantitative and qualitative results.

Results

Stakeholders at schools that implemented one program vs. more than one program reported no differences in acceptability, appropriateness, or feasibility outcomes (p > .05); however, there was a substantial difference in reported program minutes (1118.4 ± 951.5 vs. 2674.5 ± 1940.8; p = .036). Available resources and leadership engagement were related to HSRC acceptability (r = .41; p = .038 and r = .48; p = .012, respectively) and appropriateness (r = .39; p = .046 and r = 0.63; p = .001, respectively). Qualitative analyses revealed that tangible resources (e.g., curriculum, a garden) enabled implementation, whereas intangible resources (e.g., lack of time) hindered implementation. Participants also stressed the value of buy-in from many different stakeholders. Quantitative results revealed that implementation climate was related to HSRC acceptability (r = .46; p = .018), appropriateness (r = .50; p = .009), and feasibility (r = .55; p = .004). Learning climate was related to HSRC appropriateness (r = .50; p = .009). However, qualitative assessment of implementation climate subconstructs showed mixed perspectives about their relationship with implementation, possibly due to differences in the compatibility/priority of different programs following COVID-19. Networks/communication analysis showed that schools have inner and outer circles of communication that can either benefit or hinder implementation.

Conclusion

Few differences were found by the number of programs delivered. Implementation climate (i.e., compatibility, priority) and readiness for implementation (i.e., resources and leadership engagement) were important to HSRC implementation. Strategies that focus on reducing time-related burdens and engaging stakeholders may support HSRC’s delivery. Other constructs (e.g., communication, access to knowledge) may be important to the implementation of HSRC but need further exploration.
Mind Matters: Mental Health and Diabetes Management
Authors: Tenreiro Karen , Hatipoglu Betul
Published: September 2024

Context

Managing diabetes is an intensive, lifelong responsibility that significantly impacts a person's mental health and diabetes outcomes such as glycemic stability and complications. This mini-review examines the research leading to this conclusion as well as the implications for screening and treatment of mental health issues in people with diabetes within an interdisciplinary care model.

Evidence Acquisition

We searched the literature for the past 10 years, including original articles, reviews, and meta-analyses from PubMed and OVID using the search terms diabetes and mental health.

Evidence Synthesis

Diabetes is a lifelong burden, and people with the disease grapple with intensive management, financial burden, fear of hypoglycemia, chronic hyperglycemia complications, and diabetes stigma. These stressors have a debilitating emotional impact, making it difficult to carry out diabetes care tasks, which in turn is associated with poorer short-term glycemic stability and greater mental health symptoms. Psychological syndromes related to a diabetes diagnosis, management, or coping with the disease include major depressive disorder, diabetes distress, anxiety, and eating disorders. Providers managing people with diabetes can leverage 4 validated screening instruments to assess for these syndromes. The main psychological interventions studied to treat these mental health conditions include cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive conceptualization, dialectical behavioral therapy, relational therapy, and psychoeducation.

Conclusion

It is pertinent to address the mental health of people with diabetes as rates of psychological syndromes are significantly higher than among those without diabetes. Interdisciplinary care involving endocrinologists, mental health providers, diabetes educators, and medical nutritionists could improve diabetes self-care and glycemic control.
An evaluation of thermal tolerance in six tardigrade species in an active and dry state
Authors: Loeffelholz Jacob , Meese Emma , Giovannini Ilaria , Ullibarri Karsyn , Momeni Sogol , Merfeld Nicholas , Wessel Jessica , Guidetti Roberto , Rebecchi Lorena , Boothby Thomas C.
Published: September 2024

Tardigrades are known for their ability to survive extreme conditions. Reports indicate that tardigrade thermal tolerance is enhanced in the desiccated state; however, these reports have almost always used a single tardigrade species and drying/heating methods vary between studies. Using six different species of tardigrades we confirm that desiccation enhances thermal tolerance in tardigrades. Furthermore, we show that differences in thermal tolerance exist between tardigrade species both when hydrated and desiccated. While Viridiscus viridianus survives the highest temperatures in the hydrated state of any species tested here, under hydrated conditions, the thermal tolerance of V. viridianus is restricted to an acute transient stress. Furthermore, unlike other stresses, such as desiccation, where mild initial exposure preconditions some species to survive subsequent harsher treatment, for V. viridianus exposure to mild thermal stress in the hydrated state does not confer protection to harsher heating. Our results suggest that while tardigrades have the capacity to tolerate mild thermal stress while hydrated, survival of high temperatures in a desiccated state is a by-product of tardigrades' ability to survive desiccation.