bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of infiltrating fibroblasts by single-cell transcriptomics in human kidney allografts
Authors: Suryawanshi Hemant , Yang Hua , Lubetzky Michelle , Morozov Pavel , Lagman Mila , Thareja Gaurav , Alonso Alicia , Li Carol , Snopkowski Catherine , Belkadi Aziz , Mueller Franco B. , Lee John R. , Dadhania Darshana M. , Salvatore Steven P. , Seshan Surya V. , Sharma Vijay K. , Suhre Karsten , Suthanthiran Manikkam , Tuschl Thomas , Muthukumar Thangamani
Published: June 2022

We tested the hypothesis that single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of human kidney allograft biopsies will reveal distinct cell types and states and yield insights to decipher the complex heterogeneity of alloimmune injury. We selected 3 biopsies of kidney cortex from 3 individuals for scRNA-seq and processed them fresh using an identical protocol on the 10x Chromium platform; (i) HK: native kidney biopsy from a living donor, (ii) AK1: allograft kidney with transplant glomerulopathy, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and worsening graft function, and (iii) AK2: allograft kidney after successful treatment of active antibody-mediated rejection. We did not study T-cell-mediated rejections. We generated 7217 high-quality single cell transcriptomes. Taking advantage of the recipient-donor sex mismatches revealed by X and Y chromosome autosomal gene expression, we determined that in AK1 with fibrosis, 42 months after transplantation, more than half of the kidney allograft fibroblasts were recipient-derived and therefore likely migratory and graft infiltrative, whereas in AK2 without fibrosis, 84 months after transplantation, most fibroblasts were donor-organ-derived. Furthermore, AK1 was enriched for tubular progenitor cells overexpressing profibrotic extracellular matrix genes. AK2, eight months after successful treatment of rejection, contained plasmablast cells with high expression of immunoglobulins, endothelial cell elaboration of T cell chemoattractant cytokines, and persistent presence of cytotoxic T cells. In addition to these key findings, our analysis revealed unique cell types and states in the kidney. Altogether, single-cell transcriptomics yielded novel mechanistic insights, which could pave the way for individualizing the care of transplant recipients.
Evaluation of surgical skill using machine learning with optimal wearable sensor locations
Authors: Soangra Rahul , Sivakumar R. , Anirudh E. R. , Reddy Y. Sai Viswanth , John Emmanuel B.
Published: June 2022

Evaluation of surgical skills during minimally invasive surgeries is needed when recruiting new surgeons. Although surgeons’ differentiation by skill level is highly complex, performance in specific clinical tasks such as pegboard transfer and knot tying could be determined using wearable EMG and accelerometer sensors. A wireless wearable platform has made it feasible to collect movement and muscle activation signals for quick skill evaluation during surgical tasks. However, it is challenging since the placement of multiple wireless wearable sensors may interfere with their performance in the assessment. This study utilizes machine learning techniques to identify optimal muscles and features critical for accurate skill evaluation. This study enrolled a total of twenty-six surgeons of different skill levels: novice (n = 11), intermediaries (n = 12), and experts (n = 3). Twelve wireless wearable sensors consisting of surface EMGs and accelerometers were placed bilaterally on bicep brachii, tricep brachii, anterior deltoid, flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU), and thenar eminence (TE) muscles to assess muscle activations and movement variability profiles. We found features related to movement complexity such as approximate entropy, sample entropy, and multiscale entropy played a critical role in skill level identification. We found that skill level was classified with highest accuracy by i) ECU for Random Forest Classifier (RFC), ii) deltoid for Support Vector Machines (SVM) and iii) biceps for Naïve Bayes Classifier with classification accuracies 61%, 57% and 47%. We found RFC classifier performed best with highest classification accuracy when muscles are combined i) ECU and deltoid (58%), ii) ECU and biceps (53%), and iii) ECU, biceps and deltoid (52%). Our findings suggest that quick surgical skill evaluation is possible using wearables sensors, and features from ECU, deltoid, and biceps muscles contribute an important role in surgical skill evaluation.
Disrupting Osr1 expression promoted hepatic steatosis and inflammation induced by high-fat diet in the mouse model
Authors: Lynch Ernest C. , Liu Zhimin , Liu Lin , Wang Xian , Zhang Ke K. , Xie Linglin
Published: June 2022

NAFLD, regarded as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, is the most common form of liver disease in the United States. The Odd-skipped related 1 (Osr1) gene was previously reported to play a critical role in embryonic development and as a cancer repressor gene, however its role in overnutrition induced fatty liver disease has never been explored. Induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) for 10-week, the development and the progression of NAFLD was evaluated in either Osr1 heterozygote (Osr1 group) or wildtype mice (WT group). The Osr1 mice, regardless of sex, exhibited more severe steatosis compared to WT. Upregulation of lipogenesis protein including Srebp1c was detected in the Osr1 group, together with impaired IRS2 expression and overactivated Akt/mTOR signaling. In addition, the Osr1 mice had decreased bile acid synthesis in the liver with depressed hepatic expression ofCyp7a1andCyp27a1. Furthermore, there was more macrophage infiltration with enhanced expression ofIl-1βandTNF-αin the Osr1 liver, associated with overactivation of JNK and NF-κB signaling. In summary, our study showed that Osr1 plays an important role in regulating the lipid homeostasis and hepatic inflammation, whose disruption contributes to NAFLD progression.
Measuring change in adolescent physical activity: Responsiveness of a single item
Authors: O’Halloran Paul , Sullivan Courtney , Staley Kiera , Nicholson Matthew , Randle Erica , Bauman Adrian , Donaldson Alex , McNeil Nicola , Stukas Arthur , Wright Annemarie , Kingsley Michael
Published: June 2022

Self-report measures are frequently used to assess change in physical activity (PA) levels. Given the limited data from adolescent populations, the primary objective of this study was to examine the responsiveness of a single item measure (SIM) of PA for adolescents to detect change in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) using accelerometer data as the reference measure. A secondary objective was to provide further data on the validity of the measure at one point in time. The validity of the SIM to determine the number of days ≥60 minutes of MVPA was based on data from 200 participants (62% female; age: 14.0 ± 1.6 years) and analysis of change was based on data from 177 participants (65% female; age: 14.0 ± 1.6 years). Validity of change in days ≥60 minutes of MVPA was examined through agreement in classification of change between the SIM and accelerometry as the reference measurement and Spearman’s correlation. Cohen’s d and standardised response means were used to assess the responsiveness to change of the measure. The responsiveness of the SIM and accelerometer data were comparable and modest (0.27–0.38). The correlation for change in number of days ≥60 minutes MVPA between the SIM and accelerometery was low (r = 0.11) and the accuracy of the SIM for detecting change, using accelerometry as the reference, was only marginally above chance (53%). Therefore, the adolescent version of the SIM is adequate for assessing PA at a single time point but not recommended for assessing change.
Pneumatic equiaxial compression device for mechanical manipulation of epithelial cell packing and physiology
Authors: Peussa Heidi , Kreutzer Joose , Mäntylä Elina , Mäki Antti-Juhana , Nymark Soile , Kallio Pasi , Ihalainen Teemu O.
Published: June 2022

It is well established that mechanical cues, e.g., tensile- compressive- or shear forces, are important co-regulators of cell and tissue physiology. To understand the mechanistic effects these cues have on cells, technologies allowing precise mechanical manipulation of the studied cells are required. As the significance of cell density i.e., packing on cellular behavior is beginning to unravel, we sought to design an equiaxial cell compression device based on our previously published cell stretching system. We focused on improving the suitability for microscopy and the user-friendliness of the system. By introducing a hinge structure to the substrate stretch generating vacuum chamber, we managed to decrease the z-displacement of the cell culture substrate, thus reducing the focal plane drift. The vacuum battery, the mini-incubator, as well as the custom-made vacuum pressure controller make the experimental setup more flexible and portable. Furthermore, we improved the efficiency and repeatability of manufacture of the device by designing a mold that can be used to cast the body of the device. We also compared several different silicone membranes, and chose SILPURAN® due to its best microscopy imaging properties. Here, we show that the device can produce a maximum 8.5% radial pre-strain which leads to a 15% equiaxial areal compression as the pre-strain is released. When tested with epithelial cells, upon compression, we saw a decrease in cell cross-sectional area and an increase in cell layer height. Additionally, before compression the cells had two distinct cell populations with different cross-sectional areas that merged into a more uniform population due to compression. In addition to these morphological changes, we detected an alteration in the nucleo-cytoplasmic distribution of YAP1, suggesting that the cellular packing is enough to induce mechanical signaling in the epithelium.
Chronic snus use in healthy males alters endothelial function and increases arterial stiffness
Authors: Antoniewicz Lukasz , Kabele Mikael , Nilsson Ulf , Pourazar Jamshid , Rankin Gregory , Bosson Jenny A. , Lundbäck Magnus
Published: June 2022

Background

Snus usage is commonly touted as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking. However, recent studies have demonstrated possible adverse cardiovascular effects in chronic snus users. The present study evaluates the effects of chronic snus use on vascular function by assessing central arterial stiffness and endothelial vasodilatory function in healthy chronic snus users as compared to matched non-users.

Methods and results

Fifty healthy males (24 snus users, 26 age-matched controls) with a mean age of 44 years were included in the study. Arterial stiffness was assessed employing both pulse wave velocity and pulse wave analysis. Endothelial vasodilatory function was measured by venous occlusion plethysmography, utilizing intra-arterial administration of acetylcholine, glyceryl trinitrate and bradykinin to further gauge endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilatory function. Arterial stiffness was significantly higher in chronic snus users as compared to controls: pulse wave velocity [m/s]: 6.6±0.8 vs 7.1±0.9 resp. (p = 0.026), augmentation index corrected for heart rate [%]: 0.1±13.2 vs 7.3±7.8 resp. (p = 0.023). Endothelial independent vasodilation, i.e. the reaction to glyceryl trinitrate, was significantly lower in snus users as measured by venous occlusion plethysmography.

Conclusions

The results of this study show an increased arterial stiffness and an underlying endothelial dysfunction in daily snus users as compared to matched non-tobacco controls. These findings indicate that long-term use of snus may alter the function of the endothelium and therefore reinforces the assertion that chronic snus use is correlated to an increased risk of development of cardiovascular disease.
The impact of laboratory staff training workshops on coagulation specimen rejection rates
Authors: du Toit Marcel , Chapanduka Zivanai C. , Zemlin Annalise E.
Published: June 2022

Background

Pre-analytical variables can have a significant adverse impact on the quality and credibility of coagulation test results. Therefore, correct and consistent identification of pre-analytical variables that compromise coagulation specimen quality is of paramount importance. Lack of standardization and heterogeneity among laboratory staff when assessing coagulation specimens can lead to inconsistent identification of these variables. Failure to recognize such pre-analytical variables results in the analysis of poor quality specimens and the authorization of spurious test results.

Objectives

To determine the impact of a laboratory staff training workshop on coagulation specimen rejection rates and to ascertain the level of knowledge of laboratory personnel concerning coagulation specimen rejection criteria before and after the workshop.

Methods

A retrospective three-month audit was performed with rejection data of incorrect blood to additive ratio, clotted, aged and haemolysed specimens collected. Training workshops and evaluation sessions were subsequently presented. A revised standard operating procedure delineating coagulation specimen rejection criteria was implemented and a repeat three-month audit was conducted.

Results

In total, 13 162 coagulation specimens were received during the initial audit with 1 104 specimens (8.39%) rejected. Following the workshops, the rejection rate increased by 3.49% to 11.88% with 12 743 coagulation specimens received and 1 514 specimens rejected. Evaluation sessions performed before and after the workshops revealed that 95.2% of attendees attained improved knowledge.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the pivotal importance of regular laboratory staff training. The increase in specimen rejection following the workshops signifies their success in educating laboratory personnel regarding the correct identification of pre-analytical variables. Since most pre-analytical variables occur outside the laboratory, educational workshops need to be extended to non-laboratory personnel responsible for specimen collection and transport.
An analysis of government-sponsored health insurance enrolment and claims data from Meghalaya: Insights into the provision of health care in North East India
Authors: Dutta Eliza K. , Kumar Sampath , Venkatachalam Selvaraju , Downey Laura E. , Albert Sandra
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) was launched in 2013 in the North-East Indian state of Meghalaya to reduce household out-of-pocket expenditure on health and provide access to high-quality essential healthcare. Despite substantial expansion of the MHIS since the scheme’s inception, there is a lack of comprehensive documentation and evaluation of the scheme’s performance against its Universal Health Care (UHC) objectives.

Methods

We analysed six years of enrolment and claims data (2013–2018) covering three phases of the scheme to understand the pattern of enrolment, utilisation and care provision under the MHIS during this period. De-identified data files included information on age, sex, district of residence, the district of provider hospital, type of hospital, date of admission, status at discharge, claimed category of care, package codes, and amount claimed. Descriptive statistics were generated to investigate key trends in enrolment, service utilisation, and Government health spending under the MHIS.

Results

Approximately 55% of the eligible population are currently enrolled in MHIS. Enrolment increased consistently from phase I through III and remained broadly stable across districts, gender, age group and occupation categories, with a small decline in males 19–60 years. Claims were disproportionately skewed towards private provision; 57% of all claims accrued to the 18 empanelled private hospitals and 39% to the 159 public sector facilities. The package ‘General Ward Unspecified’ was responsible for the highest volume of claims and highest financial dispensation across all three phases of the scheme. This likely indicates substantial administrative error and is potentially masking both true burden of disease and accurate financial provision for care under the MHIS. Anti-rabies injections for dog/cat bite contributed to 11% of total claims under MHIS III, and 1.6% of all claims under MHIS II. This warrants investigation to better understand the burden of animal bites on the Meghalayan population and inform the implementation of cost-effective strategies to reduce this burden.

Conclusions

This paper describes the first analysis of health insurance enrolment and claims data in the state of Meghalaya. The analysis has generated an important evidence base to inform future MHIS enrolment and care provision policies as the scheme expands to provide Universal Health Coverage to the state’s entire population.
Potential of antiviral peptide-based SARS-CoV-2 inactivators to combat COVID-19
Authors: Gurung Arun Bahadur , Ali Mohammad Ajmal , Lee Joongku , El-Zaidy Mohamed , Aljowaie Reem M. , Almutairi Saeedah M.
Published: June 2022

The appearance of new variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the lack of effective antiviral therapeutics for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a highly infectious disease caused by the virus, demands the search for alternative therapies. Most antiviral drugs known are passive defenders which must enter the cell to execute their function and suffer from concerns such as permeability and effectiveness, therefore in this current study, we aim to identify peptide inactivators that can act without entering the cells. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is an essential protein that plays a major role in binding to the host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and mediates the viral cell membrane fusion process. SARS vaccines and treatments have also been developed with the spike protein as a target. The virtual screening experiment revealed antiviral peptides which were found to be non-allergen, non-toxic and possess good water solubility. U-1, GST-removed-HR2 and HR2-18 exhibit binding energies of -47.8 kcal/mol, -43.01 kcal/mol, and -40.46 kcal/mol, respectively. The complexes between these peptides and spike protein were stabilized through hydrogen bonds as well as hydrophobic interactions. The stability of the top-ranked peptide with the drug-receptor is evidenced by 50-ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The binding of U-1 induces conformational changes in the spike protein with alterations in its geometric properties such as increased flexibility, decreased compactness, the increased surface area exposed to solvent molecules, and an increase in the number of total hydrogen bonds leading to its probable inactivation. Thus, the identified antiviral peptides can be used as anti-SARS-CoV-2 candidates, inactivating the virus’s spike proteins and preventing it from infecting host cells.
Insights into the relationship between usability and willingness to use a robot in the future workplaces: Studying the mediating role of trust and the moderating roles of age and STARA
Authors: Babamiri Mohammad , Heidarimoghadam Rashid , Ghasemi Fakhradin , Tapak Leili , Mortezapour Alireza
Published: June 2022

Background and aim

Human–robot collaboration is the key component of the fourth industrial revolution concept. Workers’ willingness to collaborate with industrial robots is a basic requirement for an efficient and effective interaction. The roles of human-robot trust and technology affinity as mediators in the relationship between robot usability and worker willingness were analyzed in this study. As other critical variables, the mediator roles of Age and STARA were also calculated.

Materials and methods

This study included 400 workers from a car company who interacted with industrial robots in their daily work activities. After examining the questionnaires’ validity and reliability, the main variables were determined to be willingness to use robots and robot usability. AMOS software also considered human-robot trust and worker technology affinity as mediators. The bootstrapping method was used to evaluate indirect relationships. A set of goodness-of-fit indices were presented to determine the adequacy of the goodness of fit between the proposed model and the data.

Results

Based on model fit indices, an overall satisfactory model fit was obtained for the direct/indirect relationship between robot usability and worker willingness to use it (with mediating role of human-robot trust). Workers’ age and fear of Smart Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Algorithms (STARA) were identified as moderators in the relationship between usability and willingness.

Conclusion

Attention to the robot usability and the role of workers’ trust in robots appears to be required to ensure workers’ willingness to use robots and the success of human-robot collaboration in future workplaces. As the workers age and their fear of robots grows, usability can play a larger role in increasing their willingness to put robots to work.
A value creation model from science-society interconnections: Archetypal analysis combining publications, survey and altmetric data
Authors: Ramos-Vielba Irene , Robinson-Garcia Nicolas , Woolley Richard
Published: June 2022

The interplay between science and society takes place through a wide range of intertwined relationships and mutual influences that shape each other and facilitate continuous knowledge flows. Stylised consequentialist perspectives on valuable knowledge moving from public science to society in linear and recursive pathways, whilst informative, cannot fully capture the broad spectrum of value creation possibilities. As an alternative we experiment with an approach that gathers together diverse science-society interconnections and reciprocal research-related knowledge processes that can generate valorisation. Our approach to value creation attempts to incorporate multiple facets, directions and dynamics in which constellations of scientific and societal actors generate value from research. The paper develops a conceptual model based on a set of nine value components derived from four key research-related knowledge processes: production, translation, communication, and utilization. The paper conducts an exploratory empirical study to investigate whether a set of archetypes can be discerned among these components that structure science-society interconnections. We explore how such archetypes vary between major scientific fields. Each archetype is overlaid on a research topic map, with our results showing the distinctive topic areas that correspond to different archetypes. The paper finishes by discussing the significance and limitations of our results and the potential of both our model and our empirical approach for further research.
Feasibility and lessons learned on remote trial implementation from TestBoston, a fully remote, longitudinal, large-scale COVID-19 surveillance study
Authors: Naz-McLean Sarah , Kim Andy , Zimmer Andrew , Laibinis Hannah , Lapan Jen , Tyman Paul , Hung Jessica , Kelly Christina , Nagireddy Himaja , Narayanan-Pandit Surya , McCarthy Margaret , Ratnaparkhi Saee , Rutherford Henry , Patel Rajesh , Dryden-Peterson Scott , Hung Deborah T. , Woolley Ann E. , Cosimi Lisa A.
Published: June 2022

Longitudinal clinical studies traditionally require in-person study visits which are well documented to pose barriers to participation and contribute challenges to enrolling representative samples. Remote trial models may reduce barriers to research engagement, improve retention, and reach a more representative cohort. As remote trials become more common following the COVID-19 pandemic, a critical evaluation of this approach is imperative to optimize this paradigm shift in research. The TestBoston study was launched to understand prevalence and risk factors for COVID-19 infection in the greater Boston area through a fully remote home-testing model. Participants (adults, within 45 miles of Boston, MA) were recruited remotely from patient registries at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the general public. Participants were provided with monthly and “on-demand” at-home SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR and antibody testing using nasal swab and dried blood spot self-collection kits and electronic surveys to assess symptoms and risk factors for COVID-19 via an online dashboard. Between October 2020 and January 2021, we enrolled 10,289 participants reflective of Massachusetts census data. Mean age was 47 years (range 18–93), 5855 (56.9%) were assigned female sex at birth, 7181(69.8%) reported being White non-Hispanic, 952 (9.3%) Hispanic/Latinx, 925 (9.0%) Black, 889 (8.6%) Asian, and 342 (3.3%) other and/or more than one race. Lower initial enrollment among Black and Hispanic/Latinx individuals required an adaptive approach to recruitment, leveraging connections to the medical system, coupled with community partnerships to ensure a representative cohort. Longitudinal retention was higher among participants who were White non-Hispanic, older, working remotely, and with lower socioeconomic vulnerability. Implementation highlighted key differences in remote trial models as participants independently navigate study milestones, requiring a dedicated participant support team and robust technology platforms, to reduce barriers to enrollment, promote retention, and ensure scientific rigor and data quality. Remote clinical trial models offer tremendous potential to engage representative cohorts, scale biomedical research, and promote accessibility by reducing barriers common in traditional trial design. Barriers and burdens within remote trials may be experienced disproportionately across demographic groups. To maximize engagement and retention, researchers should prioritize intensive participant support, investment in technologic infrastructure and an adaptive approach to maximize engagement and retention.
Knowledge, practice, and impact of COVID-19 on mental health among patients with chronic health conditions at selected hospitals of Sidama regional state, Ethiopia
Authors: Simachew Yilkal , Ejeso Amanuel , Dejene Sisay , Ayalew Mohammed
Published: June 2022

Background

COVID-19 causes worse outcomes and a higher mortality rate in adults with chronic medical conditions. In addition, the pandemic is influencing mental health and causing psychological distress in people with chronic medical illnesses.

Objective

To assess the knowledge, practice, and impact of COVID-19 on mental health among chronic disease patients at selected hospitals in Sidama regional state.

Method

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 422 study subjects were enrolled in the study using a two-stage sampling technique. Data were coded and entered using Epi Data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS-20 for analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to present the data using tables and figures. Bivariate and multivariate logistic analyses were used to identify factors associated with the initiation of preventive behavior of COVID-19. Variables with a P-value of less than 0.25 in bivariate analysis were considered as candidate variables for multivariable analysis. The statistical significance was declared at a P-value less than 0.05.

Result

More than half 237 (56.2%, 95% CI: 50.7–60.9) of the study participants had good knowledge of COVID-19. The practice of preventive measures toward COVID-19 was found to be low (42.4%, 95% CI: 37.9–47.2). Being widowed (AOR = 0.31, 95% CI (0.10, 0.92)), secondary and above educational status (AOR = 2.21, 95% CI (1.01, 4.84)), urban residence (AOR = 2.33, 95% CI (1.30, 4.19)) and good knowledge (AOR = 4.87, 95% CI (2.96, 8.00)) were significantly associated with good practice. In addition, more than one-third of the study participants 37% (95% CI 32.7, 41.5) were experiencing anxiety. While more than a quarter of respondents 26.8% (95% CI 22.5, 31.5) had depression.

Conclusion and recommendation

Despite more than half of the participants had good knowledge, the prevention practice was low. Hence, multiple information dissemination strategies should be implemented continuously among chronic disease patients. In addition, the magnitude of concurrent depression and anxiety in the current study was high.
The impairment of the deep vascular complex in prolonged type 2 diabetes patients without clinical diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Kim Tae-Yeon , Song Yong-Yeon , Il-Jung  , Na Yong-Jin , Lee Young-Hoon , Kim Jung-Yeul , Lee Min-Woo
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To identify the effects of prolonged type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on the retinal microvasculature of each retinal capillary plexus in patients without clinical diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods

Subjects were divided into three groups: the control group (98 eyes), patients with T2DM < 10 years (DM group 1, 84 eyes), and patients with T2DM ≥ 10 years (DM group 2, 55 eyes). The vessel densities (VD) of the superficial and deep capillary plexus (SCP and DCP) were compared. Linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the VD.

Results

The mean VDs of the SCP in the control group, DM group 1, and DM group 2 were 35.9 ± 4.2, 34.9 ± 3.9, and 34.6 ± 5.1, respectively (P =0.042). The mean VDs of the DCP in the three groups were 36.1 ± 3.1, 35.9 ± 3.0, and 34.0 ± 3.3, respectively (P <0.001). In multivariate analyses, the BCVA was a significant factor associated with both the superficial VD (B = −7.10,P= 0.019) and deep VD (B = −5.70,P= 0.039). Hypertension (B = −1.22,P= 0.021) and DM duration (B = −0.20,P< 0.001) were significant factors associated with deep VD.

Conclusions

T2DM patients without DR showed decreased VD in the SCP and DCP. The microvascular impairment of the DCP in patients with T2DM ≥ 10 years was in particular, more severe. Additionally, ischemia caused by hypertension and accumulated impairment of microvasculature due to prolonged T2DM would affect the DCP.
Present-day and future projection of East Asian summer monsoon in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 6 simulations
Authors: Sun Min-Ah , Sung Hyun Min , Kim Jisun , Lee Jae-Hee , Shim Sungbo , Byun Young-Hwa
Published: June 2022

The East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) is an influential monsoon system that provides two-thirds of the annual precipitation in the Asian region. Therefore, considerable attention has been paid to the changes in future climate. Thus far, studies on EASM characteristics have not been conducted considering specific global warming level (GWL) using Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project 6 (CMIP6) simulations. We analyze the EASM characteristics in present-day (PD) and the changes in EASM corresponding to the projections at 1.5, 2.0, and 3.0°C GWLs. The newly released 30 CMIP6 models effectively captured the migration of the monsoon in PD with a pattern correlation coefficient of 0.91, which is an improvement over that reported in previous studies. As a result of the separate analysis of the P1 (first primary peak; 33–41 pentad) and P2 (from P1 to the withdrawal; 42–50 pentad) periods, a higher frequency of weak to moderate precipitation in P2 and a smaller amount of moderate to extreme precipitation in P1 are mainly occurred. The CMIP6 models project increasing precipitation of approximately 5.7%°C−1, 4.0%°C−1, and 3.9%°C−1 for the three GWLs, respectively, with longer durations (earlier onset and delayed termination). Under the three GWLs, the projected precipitation frequency decreases below 6 mm d−1 (76th percentile) and significant increases above 29 mm d−1 (97th percentile). These changes in precipitation frequency are associated with an increasing distribution of precipitation amount above 97th percentile. Additionally, these tendencies in P1 and P2 are similar to that of the total period, while the maximum changes occur in 3.0°C GWL. In particular, future changes in EASM accelerate with continuous warming and are mainly affected by enhanced extreme precipitation (above 97th percentile). Our findings are expected to provide information for the implementation of sustainable water management programs as a part of national climate policy.
Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mose Ayenew , Wasie Abebaw , Shitu Solomon , Haile Kassahun , Timerga Abebe , Melis Tamirat , Sahle Tadesse , Zewdie Amare
Published: June 2022

Background

Vaccination is the promising strategy to control the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, the success of this strategy will rely mainly on the rate of vaccine acceptance among the general population. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and its determinants in Ethiopia.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, and Web of Sciences database to retrieve related articles. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used for this study. Funnel plot and Eggers test were done to assess publication bias. Cochrane Q-test and I2 statistic were done to chick evidence of heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis was computed based on the study region and the study population. Data were extracted using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using STATA version 14 statistical software. Weighted inverse variance random effect model was run to estimate the pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance.

Results

A total of 12 studies with 5,029 study participants were included. The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Ethiopia was 51.64% (95%CI; 43.95%-59.34%). Being male (AOR = 4.46, 1.19–16.77, I2 = 88%), having secondary and above educational status (AOR = 3.97, 1.94–8.12, I2 = 69%), good knowledge (AOR = 3.36, 1.71–6.61, I2 = 93%), and positive attitude (AOR = 5.40, 2.43–12.00, I2 = 87%) were determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance was low. Being male, having secondary and above educational status, good knowledge, and positive attitude were the determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. High level of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among the general population is crucial to achieve herd immunity in the community. Therefore, policymakers, vaccine campaign program planners, and stakeholders should target to improve public awareness of vaccination that enhances vaccine acceptance and in turn helps to control the pandemic.
Effectiveness of mental simulation practices after total knee arthroplasty in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lee Ting-Hsuan , Liu Chia-Hung , Chen Pei-Chi , Liou Tsan-Hon , Escorpizo Reuben , Chen Hung-Chou
Published: June 2022

Mental simulation practices, such as motor imagery, action observation, and guided imagery, have been an intervention of interest in neurological and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Application of such practices to postoperative patients in orthopedics, particularly after total knee arthroplasty, has resulted in favorable physical function outcomes. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we wish to determine the effectiveness of mental simulation practices with standard physical therapy compared to standard physical therapy alone in patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty in terms of postoperative pain, physical functions, and patient-reported outcome measures. We identified randomized controlled trials from inception to August 28, 2021, by using the PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Scopus databases. Data collection was completed on August 28, 2021. Finally, eight articles (249 patients) published between 2014 and 2020 were included. The meta-analysis revealed that mental simulation practices caused more favorable results in pain [standardized mean difference = −0.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.80 to −0.04), P = 0.03], range of motion [0.55, 95% CI (0.06–1.04), P = 0.03], maximal strength of quadriceps [1.21, 95% CI (0.31–2.12), P = 0.009], and 36-Item Short-Form Survey [0.53, 95% CI (0.14–0.92), P = 0.007]. Our data suggest that mental simulation practices may be considered adjunctive to standard physiotherapy after total knee arthroplasty in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Digital economy, technological progress, and city export trade
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Pan An , Feng Shuangshuang , Qin Yaoyao
Published: June 2022

The development of the digital economy is conducive to the innovative development of foreign trade and the formation of a “dual circulation” development pattern in China. Based on the panel data of 285 prefecture-level cities in China from 2005 to 2019, this paper examines the influence of the digital economy on urban export trade and its heterogeneity. And we use a mediating effect model to explore the possible mediating role of technological progress in the above influences. The results find that: (1) The improvement of the digital economy can promote cities export; (2) The promotion of the digital economy to the growth of city export scale is heterogeneous, which is more significant in the western and northeastern cities with relatively remote geographical locations, and the third-tier and lower cities with relatively backward economic development. (3) Technological progress has played a significant role in promoting the growth of export for the digital economy. Thus, it’s of great importance for China to increase investment in digital economy infrastructure and pay more attention to the differences in diverse city development processes. It should also support basic research and development in information technology to promote high-quality development of China’s foreign trade through the digital economy.
Mod3D: A low-cost, flexible modular system of live-cell microscopy chambers and holders
Authors: Goss Siobhan , Barba Bazan Carlos , Neuman Kaitlyn , Peng Christina , Begeja Nola , Suart Celeste Elisabeth , Truant Ray
Published: June 2022

Live-cell microscopy imaging typically involves the use of high-quality glass-bottom chambers that allow cell culture, gaseous buffer exchange and optical properties suitable for microscopy applications. However, commercial sources of these chambers can add significant annual costs to cell biology laboratories. Consumer products in three-dimensional printing technology, for both Filament Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Masked Stereo Lithography (MSLA), have resulted in more biomedical research labs adopting the use of these devices for prototyping and manufacturing of lab plastic-based items, but rarely consumables. Here we describe a modular, live-cell chamber with multiple design options that can be mixed per experiment. Single reusable carriers and the use of biodegradable plastics, in a hybrid of FDM and MSLA manufacturing methods, reduce plastic waste. The system is easy to adapt to bespoke designs, with concept-to-prototype in a single day, offers significant cost savings to the users over commercial sources, and no loss in dimensional quality or reliability.
Impression formation stimuli: A corpus of behavior statements rated on morality, competence, informativeness, and believability
Authors: Mickelberg Amy , Walker Bradley , Ecker Ullrich K. H. , Howe Piers , Perfors Andrew , Fay Nicolas
Published: June 2022

To investigate impression formation, researchers tend to rely on statements that describe a person’s behavior (e.g., “Alex ridicules people behind their backs”). These statements are presented to participants who then rate their impressions of the person. However, a corpus of behavior statements is costly to generate, and pre-existing corpora may be outdated and might not measure the dimension(s) of interest. The present study makes available a normed corpus of 160 contemporary behavior statements that were rated on 4 dimensions relevant to impression formation: morality, competence, informativeness, and believability. In addition, we show that the different dimensions are non-independent, exhibiting a range of linear and non-linear relationships, which may present a problem for past research. However, researchers interested in impression formation can control for these relationships (e.g., statistically) using the present corpus of behavior statements.
Validity and reliability of the German translation of the Diabetes Foot Self-Care Behavior Scale (DFSBS-D)
Authors: Lecker Linda , Stevens Martin , Thienel Florian , Lazovic Djordje , van den Akker-Scheek Inge , Seeber Gesine H.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Comprehensive regular foot self-care is one of the most critical self-management behaviors for people with diabetes to prevent foot ulcer development and related complications. Yet, adequate foot self-care is only practiced by very few of those affected. To improve diabetic foot syndrome prevention, a valid and reliable instrument for measuring daily foot-care routines in patients with diabetes is needed. However, no such instrument is currently available in the German language. This study, therefore, aims to translate and cross-culturally adapt the "Diabetic Foot Self-Care Behavior Scale" (DFSBS) into German (DFSBS-D) and evaluate its validity and reliability.

Material and methods

The DFSBS was translated from English into German using a forward-backward procedure as per previous recommendations. Factor analysis was used to study structural validity. To establish construct validity, 21 a priori hypotheses were defined regarding the expected correlation between scores on the new German version (i.e., DFSBS-D) and those of the following questionnaires measuring related constructs: (1) German version "Diabetes Self-Care Activities Measure" (SDSCA-G), (2) "Frankfurter Catalogue of Foot Self-Care" (FCFSP), and (3) "Short Form 36" (SF-36) and tested in 82 patients. To assess test-retest reliability, patients completed the DFSBS-D again after a 2-week interval. Test-retest reliability was assessed from stable patients’ data (n = 48) by calculating two-way random-effects absolute agreement ICCs with 95% CI and Bland and Altman analyses. In addition, Cronbach’s alpha was calculated as internal consistency measure.

Results

The 7-item DFSBS-D showed good structural validity. Its single factor explains 57% of the total sample variance. Of the 21 predefined hypotheses, 13 (62%) were confirmed. The DFSBS-D’s internal consistency was good (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.87). Test-retest reliability over a 2-week interval was also good (ICC 0.76).

Conclusion

The DFSBS was successfully translated into German. Statistical analyses showed good DFSBS-D structural validity, test-retest reliability, and internal consistency. Yet, construct validity may be debated.
Efficacy and safety of FOLFIRI/aflibercept (FA) in an elderly population with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) after failure of an oxaliplatin-based regimen
Authors: Martínez-Lago Nieves , Cameselle García Soledad , Alonso de Castro Beatriz , Gómez-Randulfe Rodríguez Martín I. , Carmona Campos Marta , González Villarroel Paula , Salgado Fernández Mercedes , De la Cámara Gómez Juan C. , Romero Reinoso Carlos , Cousillas Castiñeiras Antía , Méndez Méndez José Carlos , Vidal Insua Yolanda , Fernández-Montes Ana
Published: June 2022

Background

The VELOUR study showed the benefit of FOLFIRI-Aflibercept (FA) versus FOLFIRI in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in second-line treatment. However, only 36% of the included patients were ≥65 years. Thus, we seek to evaluate the efficacy and safety of FA in the elderly population in the context of routine practice.

Materials and methods

We conducted an observational, retrospective, multicenter, observational study of patients ≥70 years with mCRC treated with FA after progression to oxaliplatin chemotherapy in routine clinical practice in 9 hospitals of the GITuD group.

Results

Of 388 patients treated with FA between June 2013 and November 2018, 75 patients ≥70 years were included. The median number of cycles was 10 and the objective response (ORR) and disease control rates (DCR) were 33.8% and 72.0%, respectively. With a median follow-up of 27.1 months, median Progression-free survival (PFS) was 6.6 months and median Overall Survival (OS) was 15.1 months. One third fewer metastasectomies were performed in the ≥75 years’ subgroup (24 vs. 52%, p = 0.024) and more initial FOLFIRI dose reductions (68 vs. 36%, p = 0.014). ORR (23.8% vs. 38.3%), DCR (42.8% vs. 85.1%), and PFS (4 vs. 7.8 months; p = 0.017) were significantly less, without difference in OS (9.9 vs. 17.1 months; p = 0.129). The presence of prior hypertension (HT) (PFS 7.9 vs. 5.7 months, p = 0.049) and HT ≥ grade 3 during treatment (PFS 7.6 vs. 6.6 months, p = 0.024) were associated with longer PFS. The most frequent grade 3/4 adverse events were: asthenia (21.3%), neutropenia (14.7%), and diarrhea (14.7%). 57.3% required FOLFIRI dose reduction; 34.7% of aflibercept, including discontinuation (5.3% and 18.7%, respectively).

Conclusions

FA combination is effective in patients ≥70 years. The occurrence of HT is predictive of efficacy. Close monitoring of toxicity and initial dose adjustment is recommended.
Self-reported physical activity and different cardiovascular diseases—Results from updated measurements over 40 years
Authors: Lind Lars , Zethelius Björn , Byberg Liisa
Published: June 2022

Background

Self-reported leisure-time physical activity (PA) has previously been linked to risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We now aim to investigate the strength of associations between PA and different CVDs and how the risk varies with age.

Methods

PA and traditional CV risk factors assessed by a questionnaire on a four-level scale in 2,175 men at age 50 years in the ULSAM study. Examinations were thereafter repeated at ages 60, 70, and 77.

Results

During 40 years follow-up, 883 individuals experienced a CVD (myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure). Using data from all four examinations, a graded reduction in risk of incident CVD was seen with increasing PA (HR 0.84, 95%CI; 0.77–0.93, p = 0.001 for trend test). PA was related to myocardial infarction (HR 0.84, 95%CI; 0.74–0.95, 490 cases), heart failure (HR 0.79, 95%CI; 0.68–0.91, 356 cases), but only of borderline significance vs ischemic stroke (HR 0.85, 95%CI; 0.73–1.00, 315 cases) when the CVDs were analyzed separately. Adjusting for traditional CV risk factors attenuated all relationships between PA and incident CVD, and PA did not improve discrimination of CVD when added on top of risk factors. When 10-year risk was calculated from each examination, age 70 was the time-point when PA was most closely related to incident CVD.

Conclusion

Leisure-time physical activity is related to future CVD. This was most evident at 70 years of age. If a causal relationship between self-reported PA and CVD exists, this relationship might to a major degree be mediated by traditional risk factors.