bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the quality of life of comorbid and non-comorbid people living with HIV/AIDS in a Nigerian secondary healthcare facility
Authors: Ahmad Dalhatu Muhammad , Muhammad Haruna Rashid , Aliyu Shuaibu , Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Quality of life (QoL) is a vital healthcare indicator among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHA). Assessing the effects of comorbidities on QoL among PLWHA is of clinical and public health importance. This study compared the QoL of comorbid and non-comorbid PLWHA at St. Gerard’s Catholic Hospital (SGCH), Kaduna.

Methods

This was a prospective cross-sectional study of 178 conveniently selected and stratified comorbid PLWHA and 172 non-comorbid PLWHA receiving care at the facility. Data was collected using a structured, interviewer-administered instrument. The QoL scores were statistically compared using the Mann‒Whitney U test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant for all the analyses.

Results

Most respondents were aged 35 – 54 years (65.2% and 66.4% for comorbid and non-comorbid patients respectively), were female (70.8% and 69.2% for comorbid and non-comorbid patients respectively) and married (67.4% and 59.3% for comorbid and non-comorbid patients respectively). For all QoL domains (perception of QoL and general health, physical health, psychological health, level of independence, social relationship, environment, and spirituality/religion/personal beliefs), there was evidence the distribution of values was significantly lower in the comorbid PLWHA compared to the non-comorbid PLWHA (p<0.001), with the largest difference seen for physical health. The mean physical health (interquartile range) was 9 (7-10) and 17 (15-19) for comorbid and non-comorbid PLWHA respectively. The most prevalent comorbidities among the PLWHA were hypertension 97 (54.49%) and diabetes 36 (20.22%).

Conclusion

Non-comorbid PLWHA had better QoL than comorbid PLWHA in all the QoL domains and the greatest difference was observed in physical health. Special efforts should be made to improve the QoL of comorbid PLWHA.
Are we there yet? Silencing research methods and Indigenous peoples in contemporary criminology
Authors: Deckert Antje
Published: October 2024

A decade ago, research empirically established that there is a dearth of criminological research on “Indigenous peoples in the criminal legal context of settler-colonial societies” published in elite criminology journals and that the scarce number of published studies primarily employs “silencing research methods” although mainstream criminologists generally prefer non-silencing research methods. Since the hyperincarceration of Indigenous peoples continues and publications on the topic remain scarce, this study set out to verify whether anything has changed over the past decade (2011–2020) with regard to the use of silencing research methods. The findings reveal that when criminologists address the topic Indigenous peoples in the criminal legal context of settler-colonial societies, the use of non-silencing research methods has increased overall, but it is not yet on par with their general use by criminologists and when compared to their use with other hyperincarcerated populations, i.e., African and Hispanic Americans. Also, Indigenous people in the United States face increased silencing. The study concludes that small, non-linear inroads have been made toward ending the discriminatory use of non-silencing research methods with the understanding that the use of such methods alone is insufficient for research to be considered non-silencing or even decolonising.
The international (in)security order and the climate-conflict-security nexus
Authors: Conca Ken , Dabelko Geoffrey D
Published: October 2024

Much existing research on climate, conflict, and security asks a relatively narrow question: how does climate change trigger or exacerbate violent conflict in ways that threaten stability within the current international system? Far less attention has been paid to how the properties of that system contribute to climate-related risks of violence, conflict, and instability. In this article, we identify three aspects of the structure and workings of what we refer to as the ”international security order” that, in our view, must be brought much more centrally into future research: the multi-dimensional role of war and war preparation as drivers of the climate problem; the widespread use of violence to suppress climate activism; and the failure of climate-policy mechanisms to account for the conflict risk they may create or exacerbate (an effect sometimes referred to as “backdraft”). We argue that these three are not simply contextual factors for climate-related violence. Rather, they work through the climate variable to shape conflict risk. Models and conceptual frameworks that do not explore these and other such connections may be missing important causes and mechanisms of climate-linked insecurity.
Performance evaluation of the USGS velocity model for the San Francisco Bay Area
Authors: Pinilla-Ramos Camilo , Pitarka Arben , McCallen M. EERI David , Nakata Rie
Published: October 2024

In this study, we evaluated the performance of the United States Geological Survey velocity model developed for the San Francisco Bay Area (SFBA), version 21.1. The evaluation was performed through high-resolution three-dimensional physics-based ground motion simulations of seven small-magnitude earthquakes (ranging from magnitude 3.8 to 4.4) that occurred on the eastern side of the San Francisco Bay. The simulations were performed in the frequency range from 0 to 5 Hz with a minimum shear-wave velocity of 250 m/s, which allowed the capture of wave propagation effects of the near-surface soft materials that characterize local basins. Based on the direct comparison of Fourier amplitude spectra between recorded and simulated ground motions for more than 250 stations, we found that the velocity model generally performs well in the frequency range of 0.2–5 Hz. The median value of the Fourier amplitude residuals was found to be near zero for all seven earthquakes. The slight over-prediction of 0.2 log-natural units at frequencies above 3 Hz in our simulations was attributed to the potentially inaccurate representation of the source radiation pattern by a double-couple point source model, and simple representation of shallow small-scale underground structural complexity in the velocity model. Maps of spectral amplitude differences between the simulated and recorded data were used to identify areas responsible for systematic ground motion over-predictions or under-predictions. For example, while some sub-domains over soft sediments show over-prediction patterns, the block east of the Hayward fault is prone to exhibit patterns of under-prediction. These maps can be used to guide future refinements of the SFBA velocity model. Since our simulation methodology allows for the decoupling of the source and wave propagation effects, the ground motion data generated by our simulations can also be used to quantify the epistemic uncertainty due to the velocity model, in empirically based ground motion estimates for the SFBA.
Geotechnical and geological reconnaissance observations of the 6 February 2023 Türkiye earthquakes
Authors: Moss Robb ES , Altunel Erhand , Bassal Patrick , Bray Jonathan D , Buckreis Tristan E , Cetin Kemal Onder , Clahan Kevin , Duman Emre , Frost David , Hashash Youssef , Koehler Richard D , Kozaci Ozgur , Lozano Jorge Mario , Macedo Jorge , Moug Diane , Nichols Elliot , Pehlivan Menzer , Pretell Renmin , Stewart Jonathan P , Ulmer Kristin J , Yildirim Cengiz
Published: October 2024

The 6 February 2023 Türkiye earthquakes and the accompanying aftershocks were a once-in-a-century catastrophe that has greatly impacted Türkiye and Syria. The repercussions of these events will have a lasting effect on the entire region. This article documents the geotechnical and geological observations performed by GEER (Geotechnical Extreme Events Reconnaissance) immediately following the events. Observations of ground damage, including surface fault rupture, liquefaction and lateral spreading, landslides and rock falls, and foundation failure of buildings, dams, and other civil infrastructure, are described herein. This article summarizes the key findings that were originally reported in the joint GEER-EERI (Earthquake Engineering Research Institute) reconnaissance report. The goal of these reconnaissance efforts is to document perishable data and disseminate it widely so that lessons can be learned from these events.
A Call to Service: My Personal Experience of Three Decades of Sonography Volunteerism
Authors: Garrish Rosanna
Published: October 2024

Although published articles have highlighted global health volunteering, sonographers who provide volunteer work have become an increasing area of interest, within the profession. The fast-paced evolution of technology, internet connectivity in remote regions, portability, and the growing expansion of new applications within the field of sonography have made sonography an invaluable diagnostic tool, at home and abroad. With this type of global access, providers look for opportunities to learn and be mentored by volunteer sonographers. This symposium provides a personal experience and many examples of over three decades of global sonography volunteer service experiences and history. It also highlights the personal motives behind this call to service and recent post-COVID-19 volunteer trends.
Spirometry in clinical use: practical issues
Authors: Agnew M.
Published: October 2024

Educational aims

To identify practical problems when carrying out spirometry.

To provide a short ‘pathway’ to assess spirometry results.

To provide a standard operational procedure to carry out spirometry from current guidelines.

‘Spirometry is a simple test of lung function’. How often have we heard that statement? Does this come to mind when trying to get an 80-yr-old, ill, somewhat confused patient to follow instructions and perform an acceptable, reproducible test in our department? NO. Of course, there is more to spirometry than the patient being able to follow instructions, but that is another issue. Let's start with the basics. Three things impact on good test results: 1) the operator (be it a technician, scientist, nurse, physiotherapist or doctor); 2) the equipment (in this case a spirometer (desktop or handheld) or hospital department lung function equipment); and 3) the patient (who can be young, interested and co-operative, or elderly, ill and non-cooperative, or somewhere in between). All three can impact in a positive or negative way on your test results; therefore, it is important to optimise the working of each one to rule out problems.
Transdermal iontophoresis versus high power pain threshold ultrasound in Mechanical Neck Pain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ibrahim Nouran A. , Hamdy Hend A. , Elbanna Rana Hesham Mohamed , Mohamed Dina M.A. , Ali Ebtesam A.
Published: October 2024

Background

The investigation aimed to assess the impacts of magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) iontophoresis and high-power pain-threshold ultrasound (HPPT-US) on pain, range of motion (ROM), and functional activity in physical therapy students suffering from mechanical cervical pain.

Methods

Typically, 75 males aged 19 to 30 years suffering from mechanical neck pain were enrolled in this investigation. Participants were divided at random into three groups. Group A received iontophoresis plus conventional physical therapy program, Group B received HPPTUS along with conventional therapy, and Group C received conventional therapy only. The outcomes were pain evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) and Digital Electronic Pressure Algometer, cervical range of motion measured by Myrin gravity reference goniometer, and Arabic Neck disability index (ANDI) evaluate neck function.

Results

The differences within and between groups were detected utilizing a mixed-design multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). The within- and between-group analysis of all outcome measures revealed that there were statistically significant differences at post-intervention between high-power ultrasound and conventional group at all variables and also between iontophoresis and conventional group, but there was no statistically significant variation between high-power ultrasound and iontophoresis.

Conclusion

MgSO4 iontophoresis and HPPT-US are effective in decreasing pain, improving neck function, and improving neck ROM in subjects with mechanical neck pain who have active myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) on the upper fibers of the trapezius with no superiority of one over the other.

Trail registration

The study was registered in the Clinical Trials Registry (registration no: NCT05474898) 26/7/2022.
Morphometric measurements of intraoral anatomy in children with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome: a novel approach
Authors: Romeo Dominic J. , George Andrew M. , Sussman Jonathan H. , Banala Manisha , Wiemken Andrew , Wu Meagan , Ng Jinggang J. , Taylor Jesse A. , Schwab Richard J. , Cielo Christopher M. , Kalish Jennifer M.
Published: October 2024

Background

An easy-to-use tool to objectively measure intraoral anatomy with meaningful clinical correlations may improve care for patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS), who commonly have symptomatic macroglossia.

Methods

Children aged 2–17 years with BWS were enrolled between 12/2021 and 01/2024. Digital intraoral photographs with a laser ruler were taken, and morphometric measurements were made using ImageJ software. Relationships between morphometrics and outcomes including BWS clinical score, percentage mosaicism, and incidence of tongue reduction surgery were examined using t-tests and multivariate linear models.

Results

Pharyngeal morphometric measurements were obtained in 49 patients with BWS. Mouth area, width, and height differed significantly across BWS molecular subtypes. Right-to-left tongue width and mouth width were larger in those with loss of methylation at imprinting control region 2 (IC2 LOM) than other BWS variants. Patients with paternal uniparental isodisomy of chromosome 11p15 (pUPD11) had narrower mouths than others. Those with tongue reduction surgery had more tongue ridging than those without surgery. There were correlations between mouth area and BWS clinical score, tongue width and BWS clinical score, and tongue length and percentage mosaicism.

Conclusion

Intraoral morphometric measurements are associated with phenotypic burden in BWS. Tongue morphology varies across the BWS spectrum, with IC2 LOM having wider tongues and mouths, and pUPD11 having narrower mouths. Tongue ridging is more common in those selected for surgery. Intraoral morphometric measurements may be safely obtained at low costs across centers caring for children with BWS or others at risk of upper airway obstruction.
Mechanisms of glutamate receptors hypofunction dependent synaptic transmission impairment in the hippocampus of schizophrenia susceptibility gene Opcml-deficient mouse model
Authors: Sun Xiaoxuan , Meng Hu , Lu Tianlan , Yue Weihua , Zhang Dai , Wang Lifang , Li Jun
Published: October 2024

Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder with high heritability, characterized by positive and negative symptoms as well as cognitive abnormalities. Dysfunction in glutamate synapse is strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. However, the precise role of the perturbed glutamatergic system in contributing to the cognitive abnormalities of schizophrenia at the synaptic level remains largely unknown. Although our previous work found that Opcml promotes spine maturation and Opcml-deficient mice exhibit schizophrenia-related cognitive impairments, the synaptic mechanism remains unclear. By using whole-cell patch clamp recording, we found that decreased neuronal excitability and alterations in intrinsic membrane properties of CA1 PNs in Opcml-deficient mice. Furthermore, Opcml deficiency leads to impaired glutamatergic transmission in hippocampus, which is closely related to postsynaptic AMPA/NMDA receptors dysfunction, resulting in the disturbances of E/I balance. Additionally, we found that the aripiprazole which we used to ameliorate abnormal cognitive behaviors also rescued the impaired glutamatergic transmission in Opcml-deficient mice. These findings will help to understand the synaptic mechanism in schizophrenia pathogenesis, providing insights into schizophrenia therapeutics with glutamatergic disruption.
Remote monitoring of rheumatoid arthritis (REMORA): study protocol for a stepped wedge cluster randomized trial and process evaluation of an integrated symptom tracking intervention
Authors: van der Veer Sabine N. , Griffiths-Jones Deb , Parkes Matthew , Druce Katie L. , Amlani-Hatcher Paul , Armitage Christopher J. , Bansback Nicholas , Bower Peter , Dowding Dawn , Ellis Benjamin , Firth Jill , Gavan Sean , Mackey Elaine , Sanders Caroline , Sharp Charlotte A. , Staniland Karen , Dixon William G. ,   the REMORA team
Published: October 2024

Background

Management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) relies on symptoms reported by patients during infrequent outpatient clinic visits. These reports are often incomplete and inaccurate due to poor recall, leading to suboptimal treatment decisions and outcomes. Asking people to track symptoms in-between visits and integrating the data into clinical pathways may improve this. However, knowledge on how to implement this into practice and its impact on services and outcomes remains scarce in RA. Therefore, we evaluate the comparative effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of integrated symptom tracking in people with RA over and above usual care, while generating insights on factors for successful implementation.

Methods

In this superiority stepped wedge cluster-randomized controlled trial with continuous recruitment short exposure design, 16 rheumatology outpatient departments (clusters) recruit a total of 732 people with active RA. They initially offer clinic visits according to standard of care before switching in pairs to visits with integrated symptom tracking. Clusters switch in randomized order every 3 weeks. Integrated symptom tracking consists of (1) a mobile app for patients to track their symptoms daily and other RA aspects weekly/monthly, and (2) an interactive dashboard visualizing the app data, which healthcare professionals access from their electronic health record system. Clinic visits happen according to usual practice, with tracked symptom data only reviewed during visits. Our primary outcome is a difference in marginal mean disease activity score at 12 ± 3 months between standard of care and integrated symptom tracking, after accounting for baseline values, cluster, and other covariates. Secondary outcomes include patient-reported disease activity, quality of life and quality-adjusted life-years, medication/resource use, consultation and decision-making experience, self-management, and illness perception. We also conduct interviews and observations as part of a parallel process evaluation to gather information on implementation.

Discussion

Our trial will generate high-quality evidence of comparative and cost-effectiveness of integrated symptom tracking compared to standard of care in people with RA, with our process evaluation delivering knowledge on successful implementation. This optimizes the chances of integrated symptom tracking being adopted more widely if we find it is (cost-) effective.

Trial registration

Registered 4-Jun-2024 on https://www.isrctn.com/, ISRCTN51539448.

Trial open science framework repository

https://osf.io/sj9ha/.
Sex-specific phenotypical, functional and metabolic profiles of human term placenta macrophages
Authors: Paparini Daniel E. , Grasso Esteban , Aguilera Franco , Arslanian M. Agustina , Lella Victoria , Lara Brenda , Schafir Ana , Gori Soledad , Merech Fátima , Hauk Vanesa , Schuster Claudio , Martí Marcelo , Meller Cesar , Ramhorst Rosanna , Vota Daiana , Leirós Claudia Pérez
Published: October 2024

Background

Placental macrophages, Hofbauer cells (HBC) are the only fetal immune cell population within the stroma of healthy placenta along pregnancy. They are central players in maintaining immune tolerance during pregnancy. Immunometabolism emerged a few years ago as a new field that integrates cellular metabolism with immune responses, however, the immunometabolism of HBC has not been explored yet. Here we studied the sex-specific differences in the phenotypic, functional and immunometabolic profile of HBC.

Methods

HBC were isolated from human term placentas (N = 31, 16 from male and 15 female neonates). Ex vivo assays were carried out to assess active metabolic and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways by flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, gene expression and in silico approaches.

Results

HBC from female placentas displayed a stronger M2 phenotype accompanied by high rates of efferocytosis majorly sustained on lipid metabolism. On the other hand, male HBC expressed a weaker M2 phenotype with higher glycolytic metabolism. LPS stimulation reinforced the glycolytic metabolism in male but not in female HBC. Physiological endoplasmic reticulum stress activates IRE-1 differently, since its pharmacological inhibition increased lipid mobilization, accumulation and efferocytosis only in female HBC. Moreover, differential sex-associated pathways accompanying the phenotypic and functional profiles of HBC appeared related to the placental villi environment.

Conclusions

These results support sex-associated effects on the immunometabolism of the HBC and adds another layer of complexity to the intricate maternal-fetal immune interaction.

Graphical abstract
HPV16 integration regulates ferroptosis resistance via the c-Myc/miR-142-5p/HOXA5/SLC7A11 axis during cervical carcinogenesis
Authors: Chen Xiao-Jing , Guo Chu-Hong , Yang Yang , Wang Zi-Ci , Liang Yun-Yi , Cai Yong-Qi , Cui Xiao-Feng , Fan Liang-Sheng , Wang Wei
Published: October 2024

Background

Ferroptosis, a newly identified form of regulated cell death triggered by small molecules or specific conditions, plays a significant role in virus-associated carcinogenesis. However, whether tumours arising after high-risk HPV integration are associated with ferroptosis is unexplored and remains enigmatic.

Methods

High-risk HPV16 integration was analysed by high­throughput viral integration detection (HIVID). Ferroptosis was induced by erastin, and the levels of ferroptosis were assessed through the measurement of lipid-reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), intracellular Fe2+ level and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Additionally, clinical cervical specimens and an in vivo xenograft model were utilized for the study.

Results

Expression of HPV16 integration hot spot c-Myc negatively correlates with ferroptosis during the progression of cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Further investigation revealed that the upregulated oncogene miR-142-5p in HPV16-integrated CSCC cells served as a critical downstream effector of c-Myc in its target network. Inhibiting miR-142-5p significantly decreased the ferroptosis-suppressing effect mediated by c-Myc. Through a combination of computational and experimental approaches, HOXA5 was identified as a key downstream target gene of miR-142-5p. Overexpression of miR-142-5p suppressed HOXA5 expression, leading to decreased accumulation of intracellular Fe2+ and lipid peroxides (ROS and MDA). HOXA5 increased the sensitivity of CSCC cells to erastin-induced ferroptosis via transcriptional downregulation of SLC7A11, a negative regulator of ferroptosis. Importantly, c-Myc knockdown increased the anti-tumour activity of erastin by promoting ferroptosis both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

Collectively, these data indicate that HPV16 integration hot spot c-Myc plays a novel and indispensable role in ferroptosis resistance by regulating the miR-142-5p/HOXA5/SLC7A11 signalling axis and suggest a potential therapeutic approach for HPV16 integration-related CSCC.
Health-related quality of life of people with depression: pre-post intervention compared with age-matched general population in Vietnam
Authors: Hoa Truong Thi My , Ngan Tran Thu , Mai Vu Quynh , Van Minh Hoang , Thu Nguyen Khac , Nhu Tran Kieu
Published: October 2024

Background

In Vietnam, there is a paucity of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) research on people with depression as well as a lack of evidence on supported self-management (SSM) intervention for depression on HRQoL. This study aimed to compare the HRQoL of people with depression and age-matched people in the Vietnamese population, evaluate the effects of Tele-SSM intervention on HRQoL, and examine the association between the changes in HRQoL score and mental health well-being (depression, anxiety, and stress).

Methods

This study was a pre- and post-study involving Vietnamese adults aged 18–64 who had depression symptoms (score ≥ 5 points in the PHQ-9). Participants (N = 58) completed Tele-SSM—a supported self-management intervention incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy and non-violent communication and using a task-shifting approach. To compare with the general population, we conducted a 1-to-1 matching by age with an EQ-5D-5L valuation study with a nationally representative sample of the Vietnamese general population.

Results

HRQoL was significantly impaired in people with depression compared to the age-matched general population. Regarding health profile, participants reported the most difficulties in usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression dimensions. Significant improvements were observed in HRQoL scores post-intervention compared to pre-intervention in both EQ-VAS scores (from 59.84 to 79.48) and utility scores (from 0.79 to 0.90). These results remained lower than the age-matched general population (EQ-VAS score = 83.28, utility score = 0.96). Depression was associated with lower HRQoL while controlling for stress, anxiety symptoms and sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusions

These results indicate that HRQoL is significantly impaired in people with depression and contribute to providing empirical evidence of Tele-SSM intervention in improving HRQoL. Further randomized controlled trials should be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Tele-SSM intervention.
Experiences and the psychosocial situation of parental caregivers of children with spinal muscular atrophy against the background of new treatment options: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Brandt Maja , Driemeyer Joenna , Johannsen Jessika , Denecke Jonas , Inhestern Laura , Bergelt Corinna
Published: October 2024

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy is a rare neurodegenerative disorder in children which leads untreated to muscle wasting, respiratory impairments, and a shortened life expectancy. Parents as primary caregivers are often physically and psychologically burdened. In recent years, new and promising treatment options have been approved, but it remains unclear if they have an impact on the psychosocial situation of affected families.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the views and experiences of parents as informal caregivers of children with SMA in the course of the disease against the background of new treatment options (Spinraza® or Zolgensma®).

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with 27 parents of children with SMA treated with Spinraza® and Zolgensma® from April to September 2020. The analysis was done using thematic analysis and reported according to the COREQ criteria.

Results

The data analysis resulted in three main themes: a) caregiver burden and negative consequences for families, b) resources and protective aspects, c) psychosocial care needs. The results are discussed against the background of new treatment options and previous models of supportive care needs. Parental caregivers of affected children face multiple burdens in different stages of the child’s disease progression.

Conclusion

Although new treatment options for SMA showed observable effects for most parents, the main caregiver burden and reported symptoms were attributable to the overburdening care tasks. To unburden families, more screening for unmet needs, family-centered help services, professional caregivers, childcare, and sufficient financial support are needed.
Quasi-real-time earthquake relocation and monitoring in the northeastern Noto Peninsula
Authors: Matsumoto Ryuta , Yoshida Keisuke
Published: October 2024

The seismicity rate markedly increased in the northeastern Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture around the end of 2020, with an Mw6.2 event on 5 May, 2023, followed by many aftershocks. Previous earthquake relocation studies have detected upward migration of microearthquakes via multiple faults and clusters, suggesting the involvement of crustal fluids in this sequence. Since some active faults exist near the source region, there was concern that this sequence could lead to a larger earthquake; it became a reality with the Mw7.5 earthquake on 1 January 2024. This study aims to develop an algorithm to precisely relocate microearthquake hypocenters in quasi-real time for better monitoring. A fine view of seismicity requires relative relocation methods such as the double-difference (DD) method with numerous arrival time difference data precisely measured by the waveform correlation analysis. However, the standard DD method has the disadvantage of huge computational costs when data increase, making it unsuitable for real-time monitoring in such situations. We developed a quasi-real-time algorithm that relocates only new earthquakes using the DD method each time a new time window of data is added. The major improvement is that our method incorporates a traditional simple relative relocation and preserves constraints between different time windows; the relative locations of new events are constrained from reference events that were already relocated in the previous time windows. We tested a daily relocation algorithm on 11,546 events from 19 June, 2022, to 31 May, 2023, in the Noto Peninsula earthquake sequence. We found that our modification substantially reduced artificial hypocenter offsets between different time windows and succeeded in resolving the fine fault structures from the cloud-like distribution of initial hypocenters. If we do not impose constraints between different windows, the relocated hypocenters are scattered and do not show fine planar structures. Our algorithm greatly reduces the computational cost, allowing for quasi-real-time earthquake relocation and monitoring. We hope this algorithm will help monitor the spatio-temporal distribution of future earthquake sequences.

Graphical Abstract
Prediction of lymphovascular invasion in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by computed tomography-based radiomics analysis: 2D or 3D ?
Authors: Li Yang , Gu Xiaolong , Yang Li , Wang Xiangming , Wang Qi , Xu Xiaosheng , Zhang Andu , Yue Meng , Wang Mingbo , Cong Mengdi , Ren Jialiang , Ren Wei , Shi Gaofeng
Published: October 2024

Background

To compare the performance between one-slice two-dimensional (2D) and whole-volume three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT)-based radiomics models in the prediction of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) status in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Two hundred twenty-four patients with ESCC (158 LVI-absent and 66 LVI-present) were enrolled in this retrospective study. The enrolled patients were randomly split into the training and testing sets with a 7:3 ratio. The 2D and 3D radiomics features were derived from the primary tumors’ 2D and 3D regions of interest (ROIs) using 1.0 mm thickness contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) images. The 2D and 3D radiomics features were screened using inter-/intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Spearman correlation test, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and the radiomics models were built by multivariate logistic stepwise regression. The performance of 2D and 3D radiomics models was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The actual clinical utility of the 2D and 3D radiomics models was evaluated by decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

There were 753 radiomics features from 2D ROIs and 1130 radiomics features from 3D ROIs, and finally, 7 features were retained to construct 2D and 3D radiomics models, respectively. ROC analysis revealed that in both the training and testing sets, the 3D radiomics model exhibited higher AUC values than the 2D radiomics model (0.930 versus 0.852 and 0.897 versus 0.851, respectively). The 3D radiomics model showed higher accuracy than the 2D radiomics model in the training and testing sets (0.899 versus 0.728 and 0.788 versus 0.758, respectively). In addition, the 3D radiomics model has higher specificity and positive predictive value, while the 2D radiomics model has higher sensitivity and negative predictive value. The DCA indicated that the 3D radiomics model provided higher actual clinical utility regarding overall net benefit than the 2D radiomics model.

Conclusions

Both 2D and 3D radiomics features can be employed as potential biomarkers to predict the LVI in ESCC. The performance of the 3D radiomics model is better than that of the 2D radiomics model for the prediction of the LVI in ESCC.
A decision tree approach for investigating the background of research activity of community and hospital pharmacists in Mie Prefecture: a retrospective questionnaire-based survey
Authors: Asai Yuki , Takai Yasushi , Kato Hideo , Hiramatsu Shun-ichi , Miki Yoshihiro , Masuda Naoki , Iwamoto Takuya
Published: October 2024

Background

The support system for research activities has not been sufficiently established in clinical settings. A survey should be conducted to identify the causes of low research activity among pharmacists and the characteristics of pharmacists who could serve as mentors to build a support system at the regional level.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted with 156 pharmacists, including hospital and community pharmacists, who attended a webinar on research ethics held once a year in Mie Prefecture. Decision tree (DT) analysis was performed to extract the low research activities and pharmacists who could serve as mentors in research activities using independent factors identified by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The questionnaire response rate was 72.4% (113/156), and most respondents were community pharmacists (81.4%). In the DT model, pharmacists who did not belong to academic societies (78%, 46/59) or those who belonged to one or two academic societies but had no certifications (100%, 5/5) had low research activities. Pharmacists who read papers more than once a month and had a nearby mentor (73%, 11/15) were more likely to become mentors in research activities.

Conclusions

The combination of the number of academic societies and the presence of certifications determines the efforts in research activities. In addition to reading at least one paper monthly, the presence of a mentor for writing research papers may also be a crucial factor in becoming a mentor. The proposed DT model may be helpful in building a support system for research activities at the regional level.
The magnitude of chronic constipation and associated factors among type 2 diabetic patients in Harar, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Mogess Wubshet Nebiyu , Mihretie Tefera Belsty , Habte Mezgebu Legesse , Feyisa Teka Obsa , Areda Bilisuma Girma , Ahmed Ebsa Tofik , Diribsa Getahun Chala , Zeleke Mastewal , Alemseged Natan Muluberhan , Amentie Eyobel , Wodajo Tegenu Balcha , Borushe Tewekel Reshid
Published: October 2024

Background

Constipation, which affects 16% of adults worldwide, is a chronic health problem characterized by unsatisfactory frequency of bowel movements, causing pain, bloating or incomplete bowel movements. The study aims to assess the magnitude of chronic constipation and associated factors among T2DM patients attending the endocrinology outpatient clinic at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital from January 1 to May 30, 2023.

Methods

Hospital-based cross-sectional study design was carried out to assess the magnitude and associated factors of chronic constipation among T2DM patients at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital. Using a single population formula 300 T2DM patients were enrolled in this study. The data was analyzed by using the Epi-Data 4.6 and SPSS version 25. Descriptive, bivariate, multivariate, and logistic regression were used. P < 0.05 was used to declare association.

Results

300 T2DM patients participated in this survey. Of these 137 (45.7%) were male and 163 (54.3%) were female and the mean age was 58.57 ± 11.09 SD years, the range from 35 to 85 years. The prevalence of constipation was 73 (24.3%) (95% CI: 0.196–0.296). Education status above high school (AOR: 0.151.95% CI: 0.032–0.718), less than 7 h of sleep per day (AOR: 12.39.95% CI: 2.712–56.69), frequent depression (AOR: 6, 84, 95% CI: 2.639–17.743), parents with constipation (AOR: 6.843.95% CI: 2.639–17.743), daily water intake < 1300 ml (AOR: 4.760.95% CI: 1.146–19.773), TAG levels below 150 mg/dl (AOR: 0.050, 95% CI: 0.015–0.166), HbAlc between 6 and 7% (AOR: 0.013.95% CI: 0.001–0.132) ,HbAlc between 7.1 and 8% (AOR: 0.006, 95% CI: 0.001–0.067), and LDL levels were significantly associated with chronic constipation in T2DM patients.

Conclusions

The prevalence of chronic constipation was considerable in T2DM patients. Education level above high school, less than 7 h of sleep per day, frequent depression, parents with constipation, daily water intake < 1300 ml, TAG and HbAlc play a significant role in the development of chronic constipation in T2DM patients. T2DM patients can reduce the extent of constipation by treating the above problem in a timely and timely manner.
Unique bone histology of modern giant salamanders: a study on humeri and femora of Andrias spp.
Authors: Klein Nicole , Konietzko-Meier Dorota , Kalita Sudipta , Noda Masahiro , Ishikawa Sena , Taguchi Yuki , Anzai Wataru , Hayashi Shoji
Published: October 2024

The osteohistology of Andrias spp. is a pivotal analogue for large fossil non-amniotes (e.g., Temnospondyli), and the endangered status of this taxon underlines the importance of gathering information on its growth. We here present the first osteohistological study by petrographic thin sections of an ontogenetic series of humeri and femora of eight individuals of varying sizes (28.5–104 cm) and ages (2.5–32 years) of Andrias japonicus from the Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park, Japan. In addition, two individuals of A. cf. davidianus of unknown age but of different size (62 cm and 94 cm) were studied. All samples of Andrias spp. show a primary avascular periosteal cortex made of parallel-fibred tissue around the ossification center in the petrographic thin sections. Mainly in small individuals, the fibers forming this tissue are very coarse and loosely organized. With increasing size and age, the coarse tissue is irregularly intermixed and later replaced with finer and better organized fibers. This histologic change is accompanied by a change from diffuse annuli in the inner cortex to distinct lines of arrested growth (LAGs) in the outer cortex. We interpret these changes in tissue and the appearance of distinct growth marks as indicating the onset of active reproduction. The lack of primary vascularization around the ossification center in our Andrias spp. sample is striking and contradicts other observations. Vascularity may be prone to plasticity and further studies are necessary. We hypothesize that the large osteocyte lacunae and the dense networks of canaliculi observed in our sample may have nourished the tissue instead of primary vascular canals. We measured the size of osteocyte lacunae of Andrias spp. in comparison to other Lissamphibia, and found them to be significantly larger throughout ontogeny. The periosteal cortex contains a high amount of thick Sharpey’s fibers all around the midshaft cross sections. The two samples of Andrias cf. davidianus show tissue and growth mark distribution similar to that observed in A. japonicus. However, the large individual of A. cf. davidianus differed in its extremely osteosclerotic condition and the retention of a small layer of calcified cartilage in the endosteal region of the femur. It remains unclear whether these differences are related to plasticity, taxonomy, sex, exogenous factors, or attributable to a regenerated but fully regrown leg. Although the present study is based on zoo-kept and not wild, animals, it yields important insights into osteohistological plasticity and growth patterns in giant salamanders.
How to leverage implementation research for equity in global health
Authors: Alonge Olakunle
Published: October 2024

Implementation research (IR) is important for addressing equity in global health. However, there is limited knowledge on how to operationalize IR for health equity, and pathways for improving health equity through IR in global health settings. This paper provides an overview of guidance and frameworks for thinking about health equity as part of IR while noting the gaps in how this guidance and frameworks apply to global health. It proposes an approach to guide implementation teams in the application of IR for achieving equity in global health considering these gaps. It describes key equity considerations for different aspects of IR (i.e., implementation contexts, strategies, outcomes, and research designs). These considerations can be applied prospectively and retrospectively, and at different stages of IR. The paper further describes causal pathways, intervention levers, and strategies for achieving health equity in global health settings through IR. Central to these pathways is the power asymmetries among different actors involved in IR in global health and how these contribute to health inequities. The paper suggests recommendations and strategies for shifting the balance of power among these actors while addressing the structural and systemic determinants of health inequities as part of IR. Explicit considerations for health equity as part of implementation research and practice are needed for the achievement of global health goals. Such explicit considerations should look back as much as possible, and entail defining and analyzing health inequities and intervening on the underlying causes and mechanisms of health inequities as part of IR on a routine basis.
Quality in Acute Stroke Care (QASC) Germany: improving efficiency in stroke care with nurse-initiated FeSS-protocols
Authors: Cassier-Woidasky Anne-Kathrin , Middleton Sandy , Dale Simeon , Coughlan Kelly , D’Este Catherine , McInnes Elizabeth , Cadilhac Dominique A. , Pfeilschifter Waltraud
Published: October 2024

Background

Nurse-initiated supported implementation of protocols to manage fever, hyperglycaemia (sugar) and swallowing (FeSS) following acute stroke reduced 90-day death and disability in the landmark Australian Quality in Acute Stroke Care (QASC)-Trial. An international interprofessional collaboration sought to evaluate the effects of nurse-led FeSS implementation on FeSS Protocol adherence in German stroke units.

Methods

This pre-test/post-test study was conducted in eight German stroke units between 2020 and 2022. Stroke nurses as clinical champions, supported by the project team, conducted multidisciplinary workshops discussing pre-implementation medical record audit results, barriers and facilitators to FeSS Protocol implementation, developed action plans and provided education, with ongoing support from Australia. Medical record audit data were collected by nurses, pre-implementation and three months post-implementation.

Results

In 771 (pre-implementation) and 679 (post-implementation) patients there were improvements in overall FeSS adherence (pre 20%, post 28%; adjusted difference in proportions (95% CI) 11%, (5.1%, 16%); p < 0.001), adherence to hyperglycaemia (pre 43%, post 55%; adjusted difference 23%, (17%, 29%); p < 0.001) and swallowing (pre 52%, post 61%; adjusted difference 11%, (5.2%, 17%); p < 0.001) but not fever protocol (pre 76%, post 78%; adjusted difference 1.5%, (-2.6%, 5.7%); p = 0.474). Improvements also were noted in administration of anti-pyretics (pre 29%, post 59%; adjusted difference 32%, (20%, 44%); p < 0.001); and insulin (pre 41%, post 60%; adjusted difference 14%, (1.1%, 28%); p < 0.034) both within one hour, as well as in performing a swallow screen within 24 h of admission (pre 65%, post 74%; adjusted difference 18% (8.8%, 26%); p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Supported implementation of the FeSS Protocols significantly improved acute care for post stroke complications of fever, hyperglycaemia and dysphagia in terms of higher adherence and shorter time to treatment.

Trial registration

As this is a pre-test/post-test study and does not meet the WHO/ICMJE definition of a clinical trial, registration was not required.
Control system design for azimuth position of earth station antennas
Authors: Al-Mayyahi Auday , Aldair Ammar , Khalaf Zainab A. , Wang William
Published: October 2024

Smart earth station antennas have been used for several decades in many applications, from satellite communications to space object detection and tracking. The accuracy of the azimuth position for such antennas plays a crucial role in most steerable ground station antennas. Satellite tracking and space object detection demand precise tracking capabilities from the Earth. Several methods and techniques have been developed and used in industry to control the directions of ground station antennas, including the azimuth position. The challenge of azimuth tracking is increasing with the demand for full-sky coverage and with the exponential increase in space objects, including man-made satellites and operational and nonoperational objects; thus, providing accurate tracking is a key technology that demands continuous enhancement and development. This article presents the use of a PID-proportional-integral-derivative controller, a slide mode controller and a fractional order PID controller. It also introduces a new methodology based on model predictive control (MPC). The manuscript provides the core design for each of these controllers and provides insight into the performance of each controller even in the presence of disturbance. The camel optimization algorithm (COA) was used to obtain the optimal design parameters of each controller in the considered scenarios.
All In: Understanding and Motivating Stakeholders to Create an Equitable Culture of Student Success
Authors: Weatherton Maryrose , Ko Melissa E. , Nichols Ev L. , Krishnan Sandhya , Faber Courtney
Published: October 2024

This essay deconstructs definitions of success in STEM higher education across four stakeholder levels using the Four Frames model for systemic change. We identify three key bottlenecks that preclude systemic change and discuss opportunities for change agents to leverage these to increase equity in STEM higher education.