bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“En El Campo, Siempre Es Asi”: A Mixed Methodological Assessment of Spanish-Speaking Immigrant Farmworker Legal Needs in Oregon
Authors: Roussell Aaron , Imle Barbara , Rodriguez Fernandez Gisela
Published: September 2024

This paper uses a convergent mixed method approach to assess the legal needs of Oregon's immigrant (Spanish-speaking) farmworking population. We adapt an English-language survey into Spanish, ensuring the validity of the quantitative results by employing intercept surveys at farmworkers' housing complexes, recording qualitative data regarding the ensuing social interactions, and generating ethnographic fieldnotes on the interactions, participants, and surrounding environs. We find that immigration is an umbrella category that structures other legal needs, rather than a legal need co-equal with other important categories such as healthcare, employment, housing, discrimination, and harassment. Our mixed methods approach provided rich descriptions of surveyed concerns as well as detecting and explaining the undercounting of categories such as law enforcement contact and sexual harassment.
Factors Influencing Stroke Internal Stigma Among Stroke Survivors
Authors: Kariasa I Made , Aungsuroch Yupin , Nurachmah Elly , Nova Prima Agustia , Putu Thrisna Dewi Ni Luh , Juanamasta I Gede , Poolsok Rapin
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Poststroke internal stigmatization in patients is often overlooked, yet it makes significant contribution to their recovery and quality of life. After stroke, the survivors often have negative perception toward themselves triggered by the internal stigma. Consequently, it affects the rehabilitation outcomes and increases the risk of long-term complications. Therefore, deeper analysis related to the factors influencing the internal stigma was crucial in order to develop an appropriate and innovative strategy to overcome this issue and optimize the recovery in stroke survivors.

Objective

This study aimed to identify predominant factors influencing the internal stigma in stroke survivors in Indonesia.

Methods

This study used descriptive analytical design and applied stratified nonprobability consecutive sampling involving 439 poststroke respondents from nine hospitals in Bali throughout 2023. This study used various instruments, namely stroke stigma scale (SSS), perceived family support, stroke self-efficacy scale (SSEQ), stroke awareness questionnaire, self-acceptance scale, knowledge of stroke and the respondents’ demographic data. The analysis was conducted using Pearson product–moment correlation and multiple regression.

Results

The results from multiple regression analysis showed that self-acceptance (β = .374, p = .000), self-awareness (β = .132, p = .000), self-efficacy (β = .154, p = .000), family support (β = .090, p = .015), age (β = .083, p = .000), and stroke symptoms (β = −.347, p = .000) could explain the internal stigma for 62.8% ( F = 124.266, p = .000).

Conclusion

Self-acceptance became the most predominant factor towards internal stigma in the stroke survivors because it showed the ability in accepting changes after stroke, which eventually helped them to overcome the challenge and free themselves from internal stigma that interrupted the process of recovery and adaptation to poststroke physical and psychosocial changes.
Limited role of fungal diversity in maintaining soil processes in grassland soil under concurrent fungicide stress
Authors: dela Cruz Jeane A. , Camenzind Tessa , Xu Baile , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: September 2024

Background

Fungicides are an effective tool for protecting crops and maintaining a steady food supply. However, as pathogens continue to evolve, it is crucial to prolong the effectiveness of fungicides by delaying resistance development. A key strategy to achieving this is to combine or rotate fungicides with different modes of action. As fungicides lack specificity, they inevitably affect both pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi when surrounding environments are unintentionally contaminated. Our study aims to investigate the effects of recommended application methods to prevent resistance development, specifically repeated-single fungicide, simultaneous mixture, and sequential applications on non-target soil fungi, and the subsequent impacts on important soil processes. We used fungicides with different modes of action on soil microcosms inoculated with fungi at varying levels of diversity (3, 5, and 8 species) isolated from a protected grassland.

Results

We found that repeated treatments of individual isopyrazam and prothioconazole differentially inhibited fungal activity. Although mixture applications are considered more protectant against crop pathogen resistance than repeated application, our study revealed stronger negative effects of simultaneous application on saprobic fungi and consequently on soil processes. However, contrary to expectations, higher fungal diversity did not translate to improved soil function under these conditions.

Conclusions

The simultaneous application of fungicides with different modes of action (MoA) has more pronounced non-target effects on soil compared to the individual or sequential application of fungicides. These non-target effects extend beyond the intended control of pathogenic fungi, impacting saprobic and beneficial soil microbes and the critical processes they drive. When fungicides are applied concurrently, microbial activities in the soil are significantly altered, even in soils with high microbial diversity. Our study emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the unintended consequences of fungicide use in agriculture. As we strive for a secure food supply, it is crucial to investigate the broader environmental impacts of these chemical interventions, including their effects on non-pathogenic fungi and overall soil health.
VCF observer: a user-friendly software tool for preliminary VCF file analysis and comparison
Authors: Emül Abdullah Asım , Ergün Mehmet Arif , Ertürk Rumeysa Aslıhan , Çinal Ömer , Baysan Mehmet
Published: September 2024

Background

Advancements over the past decade in DNA sequencing technology and computing power have created the potential to revolutionize medicine. There has been a marked increase in genetic data available, allowing for the advancement of areas such as personalized medicine. A crucial type of data in this context is genetic variant data which is stored in variant call format (VCF) files. However, the rapid growth in genomics has presented challenges in analyzing and comparing VCF files.

Results

In response to the limitations of existing tools, this paper introduces a novel web application that provides a user-friendly solution for VCF file analyses and comparisons. The software tool enables researchers and clinicians to perform high-level analysis with ease and enhances productivity. The application’s interface allows users to conveniently upload, analyze, and visualize their VCF files using simple drag-and-drop and point-and-click operations. Essential visualizations such as Venn diagrams, clustergrams, and precision–recall plots are provided to users. A key feature of the application is its support for metadata-based file grouping, accomplished through flexible data matrix uploads, streamlining organization and analysis of user-defined categories. Additionally, the application facilitates standardized benchmarking of VCF files by integrating user-provided ground truth regions and variant lists.

Conclusions

By providing a user-friendly interface and supporting essential visualizations, this software enhances the accessibility of VCF file analysis and assists researchers and clinicians in their scientific inquiries.
Duration of antibiotic therapy for multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia: is shorter truly better?
Authors: Truong Clover N. , Chin-Beckford Nafeesa , Vega Ana , DeRonde Kailynn , Simon Julio , Abbo Lilian M. , Rosa Rossana , Vu Christine A.
Published: September 2024

Background

The 2016 IDSA guideline recommends a treatment duration of at least 7 days for hospital-acquired (HAP)/ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The limited literature has demonstrated higher rates of recurrence for non-glucose fermenting gram-negative bacilli with short course therapy, raising the concern of optimal treatment duration for these pathogens. Therefore, we aimed to compare the outcomes for patients receiving shorter therapy treatment (≤ 8 days) versus longer regimen (> 8 days) for the treatment of multidrug resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas pneumonia.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate adult patients receiving an antimicrobial regimen with activity against MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa in respiratory culture between 2017 and 2020 for a minimum of 6 consecutive days. Exclusion criteria were inmates, those with polymicrobial pneumonia, community-acquired pneumonia, and infections requiring prolonged antibiotic therapy.

Results

Of 427 patients with MDR P. aeruginosa respiratory isolates, 85 patients were included. Baseline characteristics were similar among groups with a median age of 65.5 years and median APACHE 2 score of 20. Roughly 75% had ventilator-associated pneumonia. Compared to those who received ≤ 8 days of therapy, no difference was seen for clinical success in patients treated for more than 8 days (80% vs. 65.5%, p = 0.16). The number of 30-day and 90-day in-hospital mortality, 30-days relapse, and other secondary outcomes did not significantly differ among the treatment groups.

Conclusions

Prolonging treatment duration beyond 8 days did not improve patient outcomes for MDR P. aeruginosa HAP/VAP.
Thiel cadaver eye as a training model for sub-Tenon’s blocks: a feasibility study
Authors: Lersch Friedrich , Schnidrig Damian , Boemke Susanne , Djonov Valentin , Jaggi Damian , Heussen Florian M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Regional anaesthesia education, especially for ocular procedures, necessitates reliable surgical training models. While cadaveric models offer anatomical fidelity, conventional embalming methods may compromise tissue integrity. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of Thiel cadavers for training in sub-Tenon’s blocks by evaluating ocular tissues and measuring insertion forces.

Methods

Experimental design, using twenty eyes from ten Thiel cadaver heads. These cadavers were specifically prepared to test the administration of sub-Tenon’s blocks. The research was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting appropriate for handling cadaveric materials and conducting precise measurements. Each cadaver eye underwent an initial ultrasound examination, and its axial length was noted. An intravitreal injection of heptastarch solution followed, to re-establish the eye’s sphericity. After this volume injection, the axial length and intraocular pressure were measured again. Mock sub-Tenon’s blocks were administered in 2 separate quadrants of the eye, with insertion forces measured using a pressure gauge. These were compared to a data set of insertion forces measured in a series of isolated pig’s eyes on which STBs had been performed. Main outcome measurements were macroscopic assessment of the ocular tissue layers and the insertion forces required for the sub-Tenon’s blocks. In a second set of 10 Thiel cadaver heads, 5 ml of sodium chloride were injected as sub-Tenon’s blocks and the emergence of a periocular “T-sign” ascertained and measured by ultrasound.

Results

Four of twenty eyes (20%) retained near-natural sphericity, with the remaining requiring volume injection to approximate physiological shape and pressure. The conjunctiva and Tenon’s layer were intact, and correct cannula placement was achieved in all cases. In 16 of 20 eyes where T-signs could be measured, the median thickness of the T-sign amounted to 2.72 mm (range 1.34 mm–5.28 mm). The average maximum cannula insertion force was 2.92 Newtons. Insertion forces in intact Thiel cadaver heads were consistently higher than in isolated pig’s eyes (3.6 N vs 2.0 N).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Thiel cadavers are a promising model for training in sub-Tenon’sblocks, despite the challenge of often desiccated and involuted eyes.
Recommendations to improve use and dissemination of patient versions of oncological clinical practice guidelines in Germany: results of a multi-stakeholder workshop
Authors: Könsgen Nadja , Hauprich Julia , Wahlen Sarah , Hellbrecht Irma , Becker Monika , Bühn Stefanie , Meyer Nora , Blödt Susanne , Carl Günther , Follmann Markus , Frenz Stefanie , Langer Thomas , Nothacker Monika , Schaefer Corinna , Pieper Dawid , Breuing Jessica
Published: September 2024

Background

Oncological patients have high information needs that are often unmet. Patient versions of oncological clinical practice guidelines (PVG) translate clinical practice guidelines into laypersons’ language and might help to address patients’ information needs. Currently, 30 oncological PVG have been published in Germany and more are being developed. Following a large multi-phase project on oncological PVGs in Germany, recommendations to improve use and dissemination of PVG were adopted in a multi-stakeholder workshop.

Methods

Organisations representing users of PVGs (patients, medical personnel, and multipliers), creators, initiators/funding organisations of PVGs, and organisations with methodological expertise in the development of clinical practice guidelines or in patient health information were invited to participate. The workshop included a World Café for discussion of pre-selected recommendations and structured consensus procedure for of all recommendations. Recommendations with agreement of > 75% were approved, and in case of ≤ 75% agreement, recommendations were rejected.

Results

The workshop took place on 24th April 2023 in Cologne, Germany. Overall, 23 people from 24 organisations participated in the discussion. Of 35 suggested recommendations 28 recommendations reached consensus and were approved. The recommendations referred to the topics dissemination (N = 13), design and format (N = 7), (digital) links (N = 5), digitalisation (N = 4), up-to-dateness (N = 3), and use of the PVG in collaboration between healthcare providers and patients (N = 3).

Conclusion

The practical recommendations consider various perspectives and can help to improve use and dissemination of oncological PVG in Germany. The inclusion of different stakeholders could facilitate the transfer of the results into practice.
Effects of oral health interventions on cognition of people with dementia: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Haiying , Wang Zongqin , Chu Chun Hung , Chan Alice Kit Ying , Lo Edward Chin Man , Jiang Chloe Meng
Published: September 2024

Background

Increasing studies have shown that poor oral health contributes to the progression of dementia. It is meaningful to find out the role of oral health interventions in maintaining people’s cognition levels and delaying the progression of dementia. Thus, we conducted this review to summarize the present evidence on the effect of oral health interventions on the cognition change of people with dementia.

Methods

Literature search was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane library, and Dentistry and Oral Sciences by two independent reviewers from inception to 6 March 2024. Clinical studies such as randomized controlled trials reporting on the effect of oral health interventions on the cognition of people with dementia were included in this review. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores were used to measure cognition level. The mean deviation (MD), generated by subtracting the baseline MMSE score from the MMSE score at follow-up was used to assess the change in cognition. Studies with oral hygiene practice as an oral health intervention were further conducted with a meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 6646 references were identified by the literature search, and 5 studies were eligible to be included in this review. Among the included studies, 4 studies reported the cognition change after having various oral hygiene practice as oral health intervention, while the other study adopted oral exercises as the intervention. Two studies presented positive MD values after intervention provided, indicating improved cognition level at follow-up (MD = 0.6, MD = 0.9, respectively). Another two studies reported less cognition deterioration with smaller absolute MD values in the intervention group, (intervention vs. control, -0.18 vs. -0.75, p < 0.05 and − 1.50 vs. -3.00, p < 0.05, respectively). The random-effect model was selected in the meta-analysis, and the weighted mean difference (WMD) was 1.08 (95% confidence interval, 0.44 to 1.71), favoring the intervention group.

Conclusion

With limited evidence, oral hygiene care may play a positive role in maintaining the cognition level of people with dementia. However, further studies are needed to provide direct evidence on the effectiveness of oral health interventions on oral health conditions as well as cognition status and to disclose the rationale behind it.
Strategies to enhance risk communication about medicines in Malaysia: a Delphi study among multinational experts
Authors: Panickar Rema , Aziz Zoriah , Teo Chin Hai , Kamarulzaman Adeeba
Published: September 2024

Background

Effective risk communication about medicines is crucial to the success of all pharmacovigilance activities but remains a worldwide challenge. Risk communication has been conducted in Malaysia for decades, yet awareness on the communication methods remains low among healthcare professionals. While international guidelines are available, clear guidance on effectively communicating the risks of medicines in specific countries is scarce. This study aimed to establish a consensus on the priority strategies for enhancing risk communication about medicines by regulators.

Methods

We conducted a two-round modified Delphi survey among local and international communication experts, and also recipients of medicines risk communication in Malaysia. We developed a list of 37 strategies based on the findings of our previous studies. In Round 1, participants were asked to rate the priority for each strategy using a 5-point Likert scale and suggest additional strategies via free-text comments. Strategies scoring a mean of ≥ 3.75 were included in Round 2. We defined consensus for the final list of strategies a priori as > 75% agreement. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results

Our final Delphi panel (n = 39, 93% response rate) comprised medicines communication experts from nine countries and Malaysian healthcare professionals. Following Round 1, we dropped 14 strategies and added 11 strategies proposed by panellists. In the second round, 21 strategies achieved consensus. The priority areas identified were to improve the format and content of risk communication, increase the use of technology, and increase collaboration with various stakeholders. Priority ratings for the strategy “to offer incentives to pharmaceutical companies which maintain effective communication systems” were significantly higher among recipients compared to communicators [χ2(1, N = 39) = 10.1; p = 0.039] and among local versus international panellists [χ2(1, N = 39) = 14.3; p = 0.007].

Conclusions

Our study identified 21 priority strategies, which were used to develop a strategic plan for enhancing medicines risk communication. This plan is potentially adaptable to all countries with developing pharmacovigilance systems. The difference in views between communicators and recipients, as well as local and international panellists, highlights the importance of involving multiple stakeholders in research.
Structured diabetes care routines in cardiac rehabilitation are associated with increased diabetes detection and improved treatment after myocardial infarction: a nationwide observational study
Authors: Sharad Bashaaer , Eckerdal Nils , Magnusson Martin , Michelsen Halldora Ögmundsdottir , Jujic Amra , Lidin Matthias , Mellbin Linda , Shaat Nael , Pingel Ronnie , Wallert John , Hagström Emil , Leósdóttir Margrét
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite the detrimental impact of abnormal glucose metabolism on cardiovascular prognosis after myocardial infarction (MI), diabetes is both underdiagnosed and undertreated. We investigated associations between structured diabetes care routines in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and detection and treatment of diabetes at one-year post-MI.

Methods

Center-level data was derived from the Perfect-CR survey, which evaluated work routines applied at Swedish CR centers (n = 76). Work routines involving diabetes care included: (1) routine assessment of fasting glucose and/or HbA1c, (2) routine use of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), (3) having regular case rounds with diabetologists, and (4) whether glucose-lowering medication was adjusted by CR physicians. Patient-level data was obtained from the national MI registry SWEDEHEART (n = 7601, 76% male, mean age 62.6 years) and included all post-MI patients irrespective of diabetes diagnosis. Using mixed-effects regression we estimated differences between patients exposed versus. not exposed to the four above-mentioned diabetes care routines. Outcomes were newly detected diabetes and the proportion of patients receiving oral glucose-lowering medication at one-year post-MI.

Results

Routine assessment of fasting glucose/HbA1c was performed at 63.2% (n = 48) of the centers, while 38.2% (n = 29) reported using OGTT for detecting glucose abnormalities. Glucose-lowering medication adjusted by CR physicians (n = 13, 17.1%) or regular case rounds with diabetologists (n = 7, 9.2%) were less frequently reported. In total, 4.0% of all patients (n = 304) were diagnosed with diabetes during follow-up and 17.9% (n = 1361) were on oral glucose-lowering treatment one-year post-MI. Routine use of OGTT was associated with a higher rate of newly detected diabetes at one-year (risk ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.62 [1.26, 1.98], p = 0.0007). At one-year a higher proportion of patients were receiving oral glucose-lowering medication at centers using OGTT (1.22 [1.07, 1.37], p = 0.0046) and where such medication was adjusted by CR physicians (1.31 [1.06, 1.56], p = 0.0155). Compared to having none of the structured diabetes care routines, the more routines implemented the higher the rate of newly detected diabetes (from 0 routines: 2.7% to 4 routines: 6.3%; p for trend = 0.0014).

Conclusions

Having structured routines for diabetes care implemented within CR can improve detection and treatment of diabetes post-MI. A cluster-randomized trial is warranted to ascertain causality.
Nanopore sequencing provides snapshots of the genetic variation within salmonid alphavirus-3 (SAV3) during an ongoing infection in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Roh HyeongJin , Skaftnesmo Kai Ove , Kannimuthu Dhamotharan , Madhun Abdullah , Patel Sonal , Kvamme Bjørn Olav , Morton H. Craig , Grove Søren
Published: September 2024

Frequent RNA virus mutations raise concerns about evolving virulent variants. The purpose of this study was to investigate genetic variation in salmonid alphavirus-3 (SAV3) over the course of an experimental infection in Atlantic salmon and brown trout. Atlantic salmon and brown trout parr were infected using a cohabitation challenge, and heart samples were collected for analysis of the SAV3 genome at 2-, 4- and 8-weeks post-challenge. PCR was used to amplify eight overlapping amplicons covering 98.8% of the SAV3 genome. The amplicons were subsequently sequenced using the Nanopore platform. Nanopore sequencing identified a multitude of single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and deletions. The variation was widespread across the SAV3 genome in samples from both species. Mostly, specific SNVs were observed in single fish at some sampling time points, but two relatively frequent (i.e., major) SNVs were observed in two out of four fish within the same experimental group. Two other, less frequent (i.e., minor) SNVs only showed an increase in frequency in brown trout. Nanopore reads were de novo clustered using a 99% sequence identity threshold. For each amplicon, a number of variant clusters were observed that were defined by relatively large deletions. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling analysis integrating the cluster data for eight amplicons indicated that late in infection, SAV3 genomes isolated from brown trout had greater variation than those from Atlantic salmon. The sequencing methods and bioinformatics pipeline presented in this study provide an approach to investigate the composition of genetic diversity during viral infections.
The roles and mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated autophagy in animal viral infections
Authors: Chen Lan , Wei Miaozhan , Zhou Bijun , Wang Kaigong , Zhu Erpeng , Cheng Zhentao
Published: September 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a unique organelle responsible for protein synthesis and processing, lipid synthesis in eukaryotic cells, and the replication of many animal viruses is closely related to ER. A considerable number of viral proteins are synthesised during viral infection, resulting in the accumulation of unfolded and misfolded proteins in ER, which in turn induces endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). ERS further drives three signalling pathways (PERK, IRE1, and ATF6) of the cellular unfolded protein response (UPR) to respond to the ERS. In numerous studies, ERS has been shown to mediate autophagy, a highly conserved cellular degradation mechanism to maintain cellular homeostasis in eukaryotic cells, through the UPR to restore ER homeostasis. ERS-mediated autophagy is closely linked to the occurrence and development of numerous viral diseases in animals. Host cells can inhibit viral replication by regulating ERS-mediated autophagy, restoring the ER's normal physiological process. Conversely, many viruses have evolved strategies to exploit ERS-mediated autophagy to achieve immune escape. These strategies include the regulation of PERK-eIF2α-Beclin1, PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-ATG12, IRE1α-JNK-Beclin1, and other signalling pathways, which provide favourable conditions for the replication of animal viruses in host cells. The ERS-mediated autophagy pathway has become a hot topic in animal virological research. This article reviews the most recent research regarding the regulatory functions of ERS-mediated autophagy pathways in animal viral infections, emphasising the underlying mechanisms in the context of different viral infections. Furthermore, it considers the future direction and challenges in the development of ERS-mediated autophagy targeting strategies for combating animal viral diseases, which will contribute to unveiling their pathogenic mechanism from a new perspective and provide a scientific reference for the discovery and development of new antiviral drugs and preventive strategies.
Metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion: the interplay in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Haixia , Li Shizhen , Wang Dan , Liu Siyang , Xiao Tengfei , Gu Wangning , Yang Hongmin , Wang Hui , Yang Minghua , Chen Pan
Published: September 2024

Tumor cells possess complex immune evasion mechanisms to evade immune system attacks, primarily through metabolic reprogramming, which significantly alters the tumor microenvironment (TME) to modulate immune cell functions. When a tumor is sufficiently immunogenic, it can activate cytotoxic T-cells to target and destroy it. However, tumors adapt by manipulating their metabolic pathways, particularly glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism, to create an immunosuppressive TME that promotes immune escape. These metabolic alterations impact the function and differentiation of non-tumor cells within the TME, such as inhibiting effector T-cell activity while expanding regulatory T-cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Additionally, these changes lead to an imbalance in cytokine and chemokine secretion, further enhancing the immunosuppressive landscape. Emerging research is increasingly focusing on the regulatory roles of non-tumor cells within the TME, evaluating how their reprogrammed glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism influence their functional changes and ultimately aid in tumor immune evasion. Despite our incomplete understanding of the intricate metabolic interactions between tumor and non-tumor cells, the connection between these elements presents significant challenges for cancer immunotherapy. This review highlights the impact of altered glucose, amino acid, and lipid metabolism in the TME on the metabolism and function of non-tumor cells, providing new insights that could facilitate the development of novel cancer immunotherapies.
Chemical and isotopic constraints on fluid origin and genesis of geothermal systems in the Tingri-Tangra Yumco rift, southern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhang Maoliang , Liu Yi , Cui Lifeng , Sano Yuji , Xu Sheng
Published: September 2024

Numerous geothermal systems are hosted by extensional rifts that transect the Himalayas and Lhasa block in the Himalayan–Tibetan orogen. However, the relationships between hydrogeological processes and geothermal fluid circulation in different tectonic units remain unclear. Here, we report an integrated dataset of chemical and isotopic compositions (including major and trace elements, δD, δ18O, and 87Sr/86Sr) of thermal spring water from the Tingri-Tangra Yumco rift to assess their origins and circulation processes. δ18O (− 21.3 to − 17.0‰) and δD (− 166 to − 135‰) values of thermal springs indicate dominant recharge of meteoric waters from areas with elevation of > 6000 m and minor addition of magmatic fluids. Meteoric water could infiltrate to depths of about 1700–2900 m along the faults, whereby it is influenced by geothermal gradient and/or conductive heat transfer of magmatic fluids. The thermal spring waters are mainly Na-HCO3 type and are controlled by dissolution of silicate and carbonate minerals and mixing with deep fluids. The results of chemical and multicomponent geothermometers indicate reservoir temperatures of 115 − 195 ℃, corresponding to a convection heat flux of 3.96 × 105 J/s to 1.78 × 107 J/s from geothermal systems, which are comparable to that of the low-enthalpy geothermal systems in southern Italy. Geochemical modeling is conducted to assess the water–mineral equilibria in the reservoir. Trace elements and 87Sr/86Sr data suggest spatially variable controlling factors for the rift-related geothermal systems: (1) interaction with granitoid and carbonate in the Himalayas; (2) cold groundwater mixing with that leaching from granite and volcanic rocks in the Lhasa block; (3) the input of vapors from magmatic degassing. The geochemistry of thermal springs associated with extensional rift is largely induced by the interaction between fluid and different reservoir rocks in the Himalayas and Lhasa block. Based on these findings, a genetic model is proposed for exploration and development of geothermal resources in the Tingri-Tangra Yumco rift.
Regional distribution of mechanical strain and macrophage-associated lung inflammation after ventilator-induced lung injury: an experimental study
Authors: Liggieri Francesco , Chiodaroli Elena , Pellegrini Mariangela , Puuvuori Emmi , Sigfridsson Jonathan , Velikyan Irina , Chiumello Davide , Ball Lorenzo , Pelosi Paolo , Stramaglia Sebastiano , Antoni Gunnar , Eriksson Olof , Perchiazzi Gaetano
Published: September 2024

Background

Alveolar macrophages activation to the pro-inflammatory phenotype M1 is pivotal in the pathophysiology of Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury (VILI). Increased lung strain is a known determinant of VILI, but a direct correspondence between regional lung strain and macrophagic activation remains unestablished. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE is a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) radiopharmaceutical with a high affinity for somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2), which is overexpressed by pro-inflammatory-activated macrophages. Aim of the study was to determine, in a porcine model of VILI, whether mechanical strain correlates topographically with distribution of activated macrophages detected by [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE uptake.

Methods

Seven anesthetized pigs underwent VILI, while three served as control. Lung CT scans were acquired at incremental tidal volumes, simultaneously recording lung mechanics. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE was administered, followed by dynamic PET scans. Custom MatLab scripts generated voxel-by-voxel gas volume and strain maps from CT slices at para-diaphragmatic (Para-D) and mid-thoracic (Mid-T) levels. Analysis of regional Voxel-associated Normal Strain (VoStrain) and [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE uptake was performed and a measure of the statistical correlation between these two variables was quantified using the linear mutual information (LMI) method.

Results

Compared to controls, the VILI group exhibited statistically significant higher VoStrain and Standardized Uptake Value Ratios (SUVR) both at Para-D and Mid-T levels. Both VoStrain and SUVR increased along the gravitational axis with an increment described by statistically different regression lines between VILI and healthy controls and reaching the peak in the dependent regions of the lung (for strain in VILI vs. control was at Para-D: 760 ± 210 vs. 449 ± 106; at Mid-T level 497 ± 373 vs. 193 ± 160; for SUVR, in VILI vs. control was at Para-D: 2.2 ± 1.3 vs. 1.3 ± 0.1; at Mid-T level 1.3 ± 1.0 vs. 0.6 ± 0.03). LMI in both Para-D and Mid-T was statistically significantly higher in VILI than in controls.

Conclusions

In this porcine model of VILI, we found a topographical correlation between lung strain and [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE uptake at voxel level, suggesting that mechanical alteration and specific activation of inflammatory cells are strongly linked in VILI. This study represents the first voxel-by-voxel examination of this relationship in a multi-modal imaging analysis.
The validation and assessment of a curriculum based GAIT App used in teaching bachelor of physiotherapy students: a cross sectional study
Authors: Kalra Nidhi , Singh Pratibha , Parasher Raju K.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

There has been an advent in the use of Mobile Apps in the academic space. The pandemic hastened their usage, and forced us to rapidly innovate in order to meet the educational needs of our students. Also, Mobile Apps have been known to facilitate self-learning, make it enjoyable, and personalize the pace of learning of the individual. Given the level of skill-learning in Physiotherapy education, the use of Mobile Apps can pose a challenge, as well as offer an opportunity to explore its scope to enhance learning, and create innovative pedagogic strategies. There are a very few learning mobile apps that have been assessed in Physiotherapy education.

Aim

To develop, establish content validity and internal consistency of a curriculum based App on the kinesiology of normal Gait for bachelor of physiotherapy students, and to evaluate the App with regards to use, quality, engagement, and overall experience.

Materials & methods

In the first phase, a mobile app based on a bachelor of physiotherapy Gait curriculum was developed and validated using Delphi procedure, with 80% agreement criteria, by a group of experts. Subsequently, the App was rated by 200 users on: engagement, aesthetics, information, subjective quality.

Results

The content validity index following 2 rounds of Delphi was found to be 0.88. Also, therapists found the App easy to use, and 80% gave it a rating of > 3 stars.

Conclusion

Creating, designing, implementing, and evaluating the efficacy of a Gait App as a means to teaching the GAIT component to physiotherapy students was found to be appealing and beneficial.
On the computation of ray-velocity vectors for seismic body waves in viscoelastic anisotropic media
Authors: Zhou Bing , Darwis Muhammad Fadhil , Li Xingwang , Greenhalgh Stewart , Liu Xu
Published: September 2024

Computation of the ray-velocity vector is crucial in seismic ray tracing for the three body waves (qP, qSV, qSH) in viscoelastic anisotropic media. The primary challenge is dealing with the likely cusps or triplications of the qSV wavefronts, which makes it theoretically difficult to track qSV raypaths and the reflection and transmission of these body waves in such media. We review three traditional methods, namely, g-Hamiltonian, p-Hamiltonian, and explicit c-derivative, and then present two new approaches called implicit c-derivative and g*-Hamiltonian to tackle the challenges of seismic ray tracing. We theoretically prove the equivalence of these five methods to calculate the group-velocity vector in a viscoelastic anisotropic medium, apply these methods to some rock samples, and investigate the applicability of each method. Our results indicate that if the body wave is homogeneous (i.e., its propagation and attenuation wavefronts are parallel to each other) or if the body wavefront has no cusps or triplications, then all the methods offer a consistent solution of the ray-velocity vector. If the body wave is inhomogeneous (its propagation and attenuation wavefronts are at different angles or cross each other) and cusps and triplications occur in the wavefronts, then all the methods but the g*-Hamiltonian one fail to give the proper solution of the ray-velocity vector. This work demonstrates that the innovative g*-Hamiltonian method is the only approach to overcome the theoretical difficulty of seismic ray tracing in viscoelastic anisotropic media.
Sequential binary classification of lithofacies from well-log data and their uncertainty quantification
Authors: Kim Min Jun , Jo Honggeun , Park Hanjoon , Cho Yongchae
Published: September 2024

Understanding and identifying the composition of various lithofacies in the subsurface is essential for successful reservoir characterization in hydrocarbon exploration. However, conventional methods such as core sampling and manual well-log interpretation are labor-intensive. As a result, many scientists are conducting research to use machine learning to study lithofacies more effectively and efficiently. However, as researchers are becoming more dependent on machine learning, an uncertainty analysis of machine-learning models is crucial to determine the reliability of the prediction results. Machine-learning algorithms that use ensemble methods provide an easy method for an uncertainty analysis but algorithms that do not use ensemble methods have difficulty in quantifying the level of uncertainty. In our research, we introduce a method known as sequential binary classification (SBC), which helps not only classify lithofacies but also to quantify and visualize the regions of uncertainty of the machine-learning models. SBC provides a method for using any classification algorithm of the user’s choice to construct an ensemble, which allows the user to quantify uncertainty readily. Our research uses the SBC algorithm to classify and quantify the uncertainty from the well-log data obtained from the North Sea near Norway. The results show that most of the lithofacies that exist in the region of interest share similar characteristics, which results in high uncertainty among the various lithofacies, and SBC helps to visualize these high uncertainties. We additionally demonstrate how SBC alleviates the class imbalance issue among the various lithofacies in the area, which is a very common problem in well-log data analytics.
Introduction to this special section: The Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Abdelmoaty Samir , Rietveld Walter , Khattab Maha , Mihaljevic Ivica , Neelamani Ramesh
Published: September 2024

With the current focus on clean energy and the role of Eastern Mediterranean gas, and after the organization of the successful SEG Mediterranean Gas Exploration (MEGA) Symposium in Egypt in 2023, it became clear that a TLE special section on the Eastern Mediterranean was needed to present more discussions, more ideas, and more data to a larger audience for the benefit of unlocking the basin's material yet-to-find potential.
Spatial and temporal variation of Syrian Arc structures in the onshore and offshore Eastern Mediterranean region
Authors: Moustafa Adel R. , El-Barkooky Ahmed N.
Published: September 2024

Syrian Arc structures form a belt of folds and faults oriented northeast to southwest and north-northeast to south-southwest extending from the Western Desert of Egypt (and farther westward to Tunisia) via northern Sinai to Levant eastward. Detailed studies of surface and subsurface areas in onshore Egypt as well as the offshore Eastern Mediterranean show evidence for continued deformation since the Santonian with local mild start during the Turonian. Santonian deformation was the strongest, whereas the later continued deformation was less. Previous studies of Syrian Arc structures proposed discrete phases of deformation, but the present study shows evidence that deformation was continuous since the Santonian. The lack of a continuous rock record, erosion of the crestal areas of some folds, nondeposition of younger sediments, and the scattered nature of younger rocks at the exposed Syrian Arc folds led some investigators to propose a short period(s) of Syrian Arc deformation. The relatively well-preserved subsurface stratigraphic record of Syrian Arc structures in some onshore and offshore areas led to the conclusion that the Syrian Arc folding continued to present time. However, the intensity of deformation and the associated structural relief have varied through time and space with its climax during Santonian time. We consider the Late Cretaceous–Cenozoic Syrian Arc structures to be the manifestation of the closure history of the Neo-Tethys Ocean and its successor, the Mediterranean Sea.
Solving East Nile Delta's imaging challenges through new ocean-bottom-node acquisition and advanced imaging
Authors: Baptiste Dale , Khattab Maha , Lawrance Dominic , Butterworth Vanessa , Southgate James , Mahmoud Mostafa , Fawi Ekramy , Rashidy Mohamed
Published: September 2024

The East Nile Delta, located offshore Egypt, is a challenging area for seismic imaging due to the presence of substantial velocity heterogeneity created by the complex Messinian unconformity and overlaying fault structures. Existing towed-streamer (TS) seismic data have been pushed to their technical limit but remain insufficient for adequate representation of the subsurface. Previous studies have shown that a step change in imaging is possible if advanced acquisition, processing, and velocity model building techniques are employed. Atoll Field is a candidate to benefit from such improvements in seismic data. Results show that ocean-bottom-node acquisition provides improved spatial sampling and higher resolution. Acquiring seismic data with offsets of more than 30 km facilitated the generation of a robust high-frequency velocity model that better captures subsurface complexity. This paper outlines the acquisition and processing, with a focus on the velocity model building process. The generated subsurface model is effectively used for imaging with conventional migration algorithms and full-waveform-inversion-derived reflectivity. Results show a significant step change from previous TS images at the Oligocene target, with channel features clearly imaged. This provides an improved understanding of the depositional systems and reduced depth uncertainty.
Early detection of perinatal depression in couples: a single-center prospective study
Authors: Paria Anne , Atallah Anthony , Nourredine Mikail , Dubernard Gil , Joubert Fanny , Landel Verena , Viaux-Savelon Sylvie , De la Fournière Benoit
Published: September 2024

Objective

This prospective study aimed to assess couples’ psychological status during the perinatal period to identify those at risk for postpartum depression.

Methods

Conducted at Lyon University Hospital from March to July 2022, the study enrolled pregnant women without progressive psychiatric disorders or obstetric risk factors, and their partners. Participants completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at three points: during the 9th month of pregnancy, immediate postpartum, and 6–8 weeks after delivery. A score ≥10 on the EPDS indicated depression risk. A score ≥10 on the EPDS indicate depression risk. The primary endpoint was EPDS scores throughout the perinatal period.

Results

Ninety-five couples participated; 96% of patients and 68% of partners completed pre-delivery questionnaires, 81% and 71% during maternity stay, and 64% and 46% postpartum, respectively. Overall, 15% of patients and 1% of partners had EPDS scores >10 in the postpartum period. Psychiatric history and emergency cesarean sections were associated with higher immediate postpartum EPDS scores in patients [Beta 3.7 points, 95% CI 0.91; 6.4 and Beta 5.2 points, 2.2; 8.1, respectively]. Episiotomy was associated with higher EPDS scores in partners. No significant association between the different factors studied and the EPDS score was found at 6–8 weeks postpartum in patients nor their partners.

Conclusions

While specific risk factors for persistent perinatal depression in couples were not identified, a notable proportion of patients exhibited high EPDS scores. Screening all couples during prepartum and postpartum periods is crucial, regardless of identified risk factors.
Enhancing Precision in Detecting Severe Immune-Related Adverse Events: Comparative Analysis of Large Language Models and International Classification of Disease Codes in Patient Records
Authors: Sun Virginia H. , Heemelaar Julius C. , Hadzic Ibrahim , Raghu Vineet K. , Wu Chia-Yun , Zubiri Leyre , Ghamari Azin , LeBoeuf Nicole R. , Abu-Shawer Osama , Kehl Kenneth L. , Grover Shilpa , Singh Prabhsimranjot , Suero-Abreu Giselle A. , Wu Jessica , Falade Ayo S. , Grealish Kelley , Thomas Molly F. , Hathaway Nora , Medoff Benjamin D. , Gilman Hannah K. , Villani Alexandra-Chloe , Ho Jor Sam , Mooradian Meghan J. , Sise Meghan E. , Zlotoff Daniel A. , Blum Steven M. , Dougan Michael , Sullivan Ryan J. , Neilan Tomas G. , Reynolds Kerry L.
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

Current approaches to accurately identify immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in large retrospective studies are limited. Large language models (LLMs) offer a potential solution to this challenge, given their high performance in natural language comprehension tasks. Therefore, we investigated the use of an LLM to identify irAEs among hospitalized patients, comparing its performance with manual adjudication and International Classification of Disease (ICD) codes.

METHODS

Hospital admissions of patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy at a single institution from February 5, 2011, to September 5, 2023, were individually reviewed and adjudicated for the presence of irAEs. ICD codes and an LLM with retrieval-augmented generation were applied to detect frequent irAEs (ICI-induced colitis, hepatitis, and pneumonitis) and the most fatal irAE (ICI-myocarditis) from electronic health records. The performance between ICD codes and LLM was compared via sensitivity and specificity with an α = .05, relative to the gold standard of manual adjudication. External validation was performed using a data set of hospital admissions from June 1, 2018, to May 31, 2019, from a second institution.

RESULTS

Of the 7,555 admissions for patients on ICI therapy in the initial cohort, 2.0% were adjudicated to be due to ICI-colitis, 1.1% ICI-hepatitis, 0.7% ICI-pneumonitis, and 0.8% ICI-myocarditis. The LLM demonstrated higher sensitivity than ICD codes (94.7%
v
68.7%), achieving significance for ICI-hepatitis (
P
< .001), myocarditis (
P
< .001), and pneumonitis (
P
= .003) while yielding similar specificities (93.7%
v
92.4%). The LLM spent an average of 9.53 seconds/chart in comparison with an estimated 15 minutes for adjudication. In the validation cohort (N = 1,270), the mean LLM sensitivity and specificity were 98.1% and 95.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

LLMs are a useful tool for the detection of irAEs, outperforming ICD codes in sensitivity and adjudication in efficiency.
“Rehabbed to Death” in Oncology: Where Do We Go From Here?
Authors: Lage Daniel E. , Blinderman Craig D. , Grudzen Corita R.
Published: September 2024

To break the cycle of “rehabbed to death” in oncology, we must focus on improving communication and care coordination