bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-ethnicity/race generalization failure of behavioral prediction from resting-state functional connectivity
Authors: Li Jingwei , Bzdok Danilo , Chen Jianzhong , Tam Angela , Ooi Leon Qi Rong , Holmes Avram J. , Ge Tian , Patil Kaustubh R. , Jabbi Mbemba , Eickhoff Simon B. , Yeo B. T. Thomas , Genon Sarah
Published: March 2022

Algorithmic biases that favor majority populations pose a key challenge to the application of machine learning for precision medicine. Here, we assessed such bias in prediction models of behavioral phenotypes from brain functional magnetic resonance imaging. We examined the prediction bias using two independent datasets (preadolescent versus adult) of mixed ethnic/racial composition. When predictive models were trained on data dominated by white Americans (WA), out-of-sample prediction errors were generally higher for African Americans (AA) than for WA. This bias toward WA corresponds to more WA-like brain-behavior association patterns learned by the models. When models were trained on AA only, compared to training only on WA or an equal number of AA and WA participants, AA prediction accuracy improved but stayed below that for WA. Overall, the results point to the need for caution and further research regarding the application of current brain-behavior prediction models in minority populations.
Extracellular matrix proteins regulate NK cell function in peripheral tissues
Authors: Bunting Mark D. , Vyas Maulik , Requesens Marta , Langenbucher Adam , Schiferle Erik B. , Manguso Robert T. , Lawrence Michael S. , Demehri Shadmehr
Published: March 2022

Natural killer (NK) cells reject major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I)–deficient bone marrow through direct cytotoxicity but not solid organ transplants devoid of MHC-I. Here, we demonstrate an immediate switch in NK cell function upon exit from the circulation, characterized by a shift from direct cytotoxicity to chemokine/cytokine production. In the skin transplant paradigm, combining an NK cell–specific activating ligand, m157, with missing self MHC-I resulted in complete graft rejection, which was dependent on NK cells as potential helpers and T cells as effectors. Extracellular matrix proteins, collagen I, collagen III, and elastin, blocked NK cell cytotoxicity and promoted their chemokine/cytokine production. NK cell cytotoxicity against MHC-I–deficient melanoma in the skin was markedly increased by blocking tumor collagen deposition. MHC-I down-regulation occurred in solid human cancers but not leukemias, which could be directly targeted by circulating cytotoxic NK cells. Our findings uncover a fundamental mechanism that restricts direct NK cell cytotoxicity in peripheral tissues.
Highly-integrated, miniaturized, stretchable electronic systems based on stacked multilayer network materials
Authors: Song Honglie , Luo Guoquan , Ji Ziyao , Bo Renheng , Xue Zhaoguo , Yan Dongjia , Zhang Fan , Bai Ke , Liu Jianxing , Cheng Xu , Pang Wenbo , Shen Zhangming , Zhang Yihui
Published: March 2022

Elastic stretchability and function density represent two key figures of merits for stretchable inorganic electronics. Various design strategies have been reported to provide both high levels of stretchability and function density, but the function densities are mostly below 80%. While the stacked device layout can overcome this limitation, the soft elastomers used in previous studies could highly restrict the deformation of stretchable interconnects. Here, we introduce stacked multilayer network materials as a general platform to incorporate individual components and stretchable interconnects, without posing any essential constraint to their deformations. Quantitative analyses show a substantial enhancement (e.g., by ~7.5 times) of elastic stretchability of serpentine interconnects as compared to that based on stacked soft elastomers. The proposed strategy allows demonstration of a miniaturized electronic system (11 mm by 10 mm), with a moderate elastic stretchability (~20%) and an unprecedented areal coverage (~110%), which can serve as compass display, somatosensory mouse, and physiological-signal monitor.
Galectin-1 prevents pathological vascular remodeling in atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Roldán-Montero Raquel , Pérez-Sáez Juan M. , Cerro-Pardo Isabel , Oller Jorge , Martinez-Lopez Diego , Nuñez Estefania , Maller Sebastian M. , Gutierrez-Muñoz Carmen , Mendez-Barbero Nerea , Escola-Gil Joan C. , Michel Jean-Baptiste , Mittelbrunn Maria , Vázquez Jesús , Blanco-Colio Luis M. , Rabinovich Gabriel A. , Martin-Ventura Jose L.
Published: March 2022

Pathological vascular remodeling is the underlying cause of atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Here, we analyzed the role of galectin-1 (Gal-1), a β-galactoside–binding protein, as a therapeutic target for atherosclerosis and AAA. Mice lacking Gal-1 (Lgals1−/−) developed severe atherosclerosis induced by pAAV/D377Y-mPCSK9 adenovirus and displayed higher lipid levels and lower expression of contractile markers of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in plaques than wild-type mice. Proteomic analysis ofLgals1−/−aortas showed changes in markers of VSMC phenotypic switch and altered composition of mitochondrial proteins. Mechanistically, Gal-1 silencing resulted in increased foam cell formation and mitochondrial dysfunction in VSMCs, while treatment with recombinant Gal-1 (rGal-1) prevented these effects. Furthermore, rGal-1 treatment attenuated atherosclerosis and elastase-induced AAA, leading to higher contractile VSMCs in aortic tissues. Gal-1 expression decreased in human atheroma and AAA compared to control tissue. Thus, Gal-1–driven circuits emerge as potential therapeutic strategies in atherosclerosis and AAA.
A clicking confinement strategy to fabricate transition metal single-atom sites for bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhao Chang-Xin , Liu Jia-Ning , Wang Juan , Wang Changda , Guo Xin , Li Xi-Yao , Chen Xiao , Song Li , Li Bo-Quan , Zhang Qiang
Published: March 2022

Rechargeable zinc-air batteries call for high-performance bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts. Transition metal single-atom catalysts constitute a promising candidate considering their maximum atom efficiency and high intrinsic activity. However, the fabrication of atomically dispersed transition metal sites is highly challenging, creating a need for for new design strategies and synthesis methods. Here, a clicking confinement strategy is proposed to efficiently predisperse transitional metal atoms in a precursor directed by click chemistry and ensure successful construction of abundant single-atom sites. Concretely, cobalt-coordinated porphyrin units are covalently clicked on the substrate for the confinement of the cobalt atoms and affording a Co-N-C electrocatalyst. The Co-N-C electrocatalyst exhibits impressive bifunctional oxygen electrocatalytic performances with an activity indicator Δ
E
of 0.79 V. This work extends the approach to prepare transition metal single-atom sites for efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis and inspires the methodology on precise synthesis of catalytic materials.
In vivo prime editing of a metabolic liver disease in mice
Authors: Böck Desirée , Rothgangl Tanja , Villiger Lukas , Schmidheini Lukas , Matsushita Mai , Mathis Nicolas , Ioannidi Eleonora , Rimann Nicole , Grisch-Chan Hiu Man , Kreutzer Susanne , Kontarakis Zacharias , Kopf Manfred , Thöny Beat , Schwank Gerald
Published: March 2022

Prime editing is a highly versatile CRISPR-based genome editing technology that works without DNA double-strand break formation. Despite rapid technological advances, in vivo application for the treatment of genetic diseases remains challenging. Here, we developed a size-reduced
Sp
Cas9 prime editor (PE) lacking the RNaseH domain (PE2

Δ
RnH

) and an intein-split construct (PE2 p.1153) for adeno-associated virus–mediated delivery into the liver. Editing efficiencies reached 15% at the
Dnmt1
locus and were further elevated to 58% by delivering unsplit PE2

Δ
RnH

via human adenoviral vector 5 (AdV). To provide proof of concept for correcting a genetic liver disease, we used the AdV approach for repairing the disease-causing

Pah
enu2

mutation in a mouse model of phenylketonuria (PKU) via prime editing. Average correction efficiencies of 11.1% (up to 17.4%) in neonates led to therapeutic reduction of blood phenylalanine, without inducing detectable off-target mutations or prolonged liver inflammation. Although the current in vivo prime editing approach for PKU has limitations for clinical application due to the requirement of high vector doses (7 × 10
14
vg/kg) and the induction of immune responses to the vector and the PE, further development of the technology may lead to curative therapies for PKU and other genetic liver diseases.
Bionized Nanoferrite Particles Alter the Course of Experimental Cryptococcus neoformans Pneumonia
Authors: Liporagi Lopes Livia C. , Korangath Preethi , dos Santos Samuel R. , Gabrielson Kathleen L. , Ivkov Robert , Casadevall Arturo
Published: March 2022

Cryptococcosis is a devastating fungal disease associated with high morbidity and mortality even when treated with antifungal drugs. Bionized nanoferrite (BNF) nanoparticles are powerful immunomodulators, but their efficacy for infectious diseases has not been investigated.
Interrogation of Essentiality in the Reconstructed Haemophilus influenzae Metabolic Network Identifies Lipid Metabolism Antimicrobial Targets: Preclinical Evaluation of a FabH β-Ketoacyl-ACP Synthase Inhibitor
Authors: López-López Nahikari , León David San , de Castro Sonia , Díez-Martínez Roberto , Iglesias-Bexiga Manuel , Camarasa María José , Menéndez Margarita , Nogales Juan , Garmendia Junkal
Published: March 2022

Antimicrobial resistance drives the need of synergistically combined powerful computational tools and experimental work to accelerate target identification and drug development. Here, we present a high-quality metabolic model of
H. influenzae
and show its usefulness both as a computational framework for large experimental data set contextualization and as a tool to discover condition-independent drug targets.
Positive Interventional Effect of Engineered Butyrate-Producing Bacteria on Metabolic Disorders and Intestinal Flora Disruption in Obese Mice
Authors: Wang Lina , Cheng Xiaoming , Bai Liang , Gao Mengxue , Kang Guangbo , Cao Xiaocang , Huang He
Published: March 2022

Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease with an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure, and obesity-related metabolic diseases have become increasingly common. There is an urgent need to develop effective interventions for the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies Inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Infection through Blocking Membrane Fusion
Authors: Li Chia-Jung , Chao Tai-Ling , Chang Ting-Yu , Hsiao Chia-Chun , Lu De-Chao , Chiang Yi-Wei , Lai Guan-Chun , Tsai Ya-Min , Fang Jun-Tung , Ieong Siman , Wang Jann-Tay , Chang Sui-Yuan , Chang Shih-Chung
Published: March 2022

The spike (S) protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 mediates receptor binding and virus-host cell membrane fusion during virus entry. Many neutralizing antibodies (nAbs), which targeted the receptor binding domain (RBD) of S protein, lost the neutralizing activity against the newly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants with sequence mutations at the RBD.
Supplemental Material: Cenozoic deformation in the eastern domain of the North Qaidam thrust belt, northern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Bing , Wang Yongchao , al. et
Published: March 2022

Table S1: Detrital framework grain compositions of Miocene sandstones from the Wulan Basin, northern Tibetan Plateau. Table S2: Analytical data of the apatite fission track samples from the eastern domain of the North Qaidam thrust belt, northern Tibetan Plateau.
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma with stage IV cavoatrial tumour thrombus extension and rapid metastatic reoccurrence postsurgical treatment with review of current treatment strategies
Authors: Gudapati Prathyusha , Abouamara Mouna
Published: March 2022

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most aggressive urological malignancy, with a high recurrence rate. Despite the rapid evolution of the treatment of RCC from non-specific cytotoxic therapies to specific novel combination therapies, the general prognosis for advanced RCC remains poor because patients’ responses to these therapies vary. Herein, we present the case of a male in early forties who was diagnosed with a right lower pole renal mass with a level IV tumour thrombus, which was later confirmed as stage IIIc clear cell RCC. About 19 months after radical nephrectomy (curative surgery), the patient was diagnosed with a biopsy-proven metastatic disease, which was not responsive to first-line treatment owing to insufficient data on the best treatment regimen. Herein, we also present a literature review on the pathological impact of genomic alterations in tumour suppressors and highlight emerging paradigm shifts in the treatment of RCC.
Microendoscopic decompression of conjoined lumbosacral nerve roots
Authors: Lightsey Harry M , Xiong Grace X , Schoenfeld Andrew J , Simpson Andrew K
Published: March 2022

Nerve root morphological variability is often incompletely appreciated on preoperative imaging and can complicate intraoperative decision-making. This case demonstrates the utility of spinal endoscopy in the visualisation and manipulation of conjoined nerve roots and includes procedural images to promote better understanding and awareness of this anatomical anomaly. A woman in her 50s presented with 1 year of progressive left S1 radiculopathy refractory to non-operative modalities. History and examination were notable for S1 dermatomal paresthesias, positive ipsilateral straight leg raise and grade 4/5 gastrocnemius strength. MRI demonstrated an L5–S1 left paracentral disc herniation causing severe lateral recess stenosis. Endoscopic decompression revealed conjoined lumbosacral nerve roots. Laminotomies and discectomy provided circumferential decompression. The patient experienced immediate and sustained relief of her preoperative radiculopathy as manifested in patient-reported outcome measures. Evolving endoscopic spine platforms provide novel visualisation of nerve root anomalies yielding new insight on safe and effective decompressive techniques.
Situation of snakebite, antivenom market and access to antivenoms in ASEAN countries
Authors: Patikorn Chanthawat , Ismail Ahmad Khaldun , Abidin Syafiq Asnawi Zainal , Blanco Francis Bonn , Blessmann Jörg , Choumlivong Khamla , Comandante John David , Doan Uyen Vy , Mohamed @ Ismail Zainalabidin , Khine Yi Yi , Maharani Tri , Nwe Myat Thet , Qamruddin Reza Murad , Safferi Ruth Sabrina , Santamaria Emelia , Tiglao Patrick Joseph G , Trakulsrichai Satariya , Vasaruchapong Taksa , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn , Taychakhoonavudh Suthira , Othman Iekhsan
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease posing public health challenges globally. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries are among the tropical regions with disproportionately high incidence of snakebite. Hence, this study aimed to review the situation of snakebite, antivenom market and access to antivenoms in ASEAN.

Methods

This mixed-methods study included comprehensive literature review and in-depth interviews with key informants to assess the situation of management system of snakebite, antivenom market and access to antivenoms in seven ASEAN countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Lao PDR and Myanmar. Data were analysed by a framework method.

Results

ASEAN have developed various strategies to improve outcomes of snakebite victims. Five domestic antivenom manufacturers in the region produce up to 288 375 vials of antivenoms annually with the value of US$13 058 053 million which could treat 42 213 snakebite victims. However, there remain challenges to be addressed especially the lack of snakebite-related informatics system, inadequate antivenoms at the healthcare facilities and when the majority of snakebite victims seek traditional healers instead of conventional treatment.

Conclusion

Improving the situation of snakebite and antivenom is not only about the availability of antivenom, but the whole landscape of surrounding management and supporting system. The assessment of the situation of snakebite and antivenom is crucial for countries or regions where snakebites are prevalent to recognise their current standpoint to inform the development of strategies to achieve the goal set by the WHO of halving the global burden of snakebite by 2030.
Influence of combat boot types on in-shoe forces and perceived comfort during unloaded and loaded walking
Authors: Yeo Eunice X S , Chhabra K , Kong P W
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Combat boots are essential protective gear for military personnel. The purposes of the present study were to examine (1) the influence of combat boot type on ground reaction force (GRF) variables and perceived comfort during unloaded and loaded walking and (2) the relationship between comfort and biomechanical measurements.

Methods

Four types of combat boots with different physical features (eg, mass, thickness) and mechanical properties (eg, cushioning, rigidity) were compared across 61 male participants with experience in military marching while carrying heavy loads. In each boot type, participants completed a 10-m walk under an unloaded and a 20-kg loaded conditions at their preferred speeds. Peak force and loading rate during walking were measured using the loadsol wireless in-shoe sensor system. Comfort level was assessed using a 7-point Likert scale. Difference between loaded and unloaded walking, and across boot types were statistically compared. Correlation analyses were performed between comfort and GRF variables.

Results

On average across all boot types, participants walked 2.1% slower when carrying 20-kg loads while experiencing 24.3% higher peak force and 20.8% higher loading rate. Boot D was perceived as most comfortable, followed by boots C, B and A (χ2(2)=115.4, p<0.001). Participants walked slightly faster (p=0.022, ηp2= 0.052) and displayed higher loading rates (p<0.001, ηp2=0.194) in the two more comfortable boots (C and D) than the less comfortable boots (A and B). No significant correlations were found between perceived comfort and any GRF variables.

Conclusions

Combat boot features can influence perceived comfort ratings substantially during walking, whereas biomechanical differences among boot types are more subtle regardless of load conditions. The lack of relationship between comfort and force variables suggests that both subjective and objective measurements should be considered for comprehensive evaluation of combat boots.
Variation in on-scene time of emergency medical services and the extent of the difference of on-scene time between genders: a retrospective population-based registry study in Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Moafa Hassan N , van Kuijk Sander MJ , Moukhyer Mohammed E , Alqahtani Dhafer M , Haak Harm R
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To identify the intergender variation of on-scene time (OST) for highly urgent emergency cases conveyed by emergency medical services (EMS) in Saudi Arabia and to assess other predictors of OST and hypothesise for possible factors delaying OST.

Design

A retrospective population-based registry study.

Setting

Riyadh Province is the largest province in terms of population and the second in terms of geographical area.

Participants

All highly urgent transported patients from the scene to emergency departments, be they medical emergencies or trauma emergencies during 2018.

Outcome measure

OST difference between men and women transported by EMS.

Results

In total, 21 878 patients were included for analysis: 33.9% women and 66.1% men. The median OST for women was 22 min (IQR 15–30) and 18 min (IQR 11–26) for men (p<0.001); for medical cases, median OST was 23 min (IQR 16–31) for women compared with 20 min (IQR 13 – 29) for men (p<0.001); for trauma cases, the median OST of both sexes was equal. We found the following additional predictors of OST: factors of emergency type, sex, age category, geographical areas, type of ambulance vehicle and hospital type were all significantly associated with OST in the crude or adjusted analyses. Factors of emergency type, sex, age category, geographical areas, type of ambulance vehicle and hospital type were also significantly associated with the odds of OST of more than 15 min in the crude and adjusted regression analyses.

Conclusions

The median OST was longer than 15 min for more than half of transported cases. For medical cases, women had a longer median OST than men. Additional predictors associated with prolonged OST were the patient’s age, area (ie, urban vs rural), type of ambulance vehicle and season. These findings are hypothesis generating and require further studies.
Development and testing of an opioid tapering self-management intervention for chronic pain: I-WOTCH
Authors: Sandhu Harbinder Kaur , Shaw Jane , Carnes Dawn , Furlan Andrea D , Tysall Colin , Adjei Henry , Muthiah Chockalingam , Noyes Jennifer , Tang Nicole K Y , Taylor Stephanie JC , Underwood Martin , Willis Adrian , Eldabe Sam
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To describe the design, development and pilot of a multicomponent intervention aimed at supporting withdrawal of opioids for people with chronic non-malignant pain for future evaluation in the Improving the Wellbeing of people with Opioid Treated CHronic pain (I-WOTCH) randomised controlled trial.

Design

The I-WOTCH intervention draws on previous literature and collaboration with stakeholders (patient and public involvement). Intervention mapping and development activities of Behaviour Change Taxonomy are described.

Setting

The intervention development was conducted by a multidisciplinary team with clinical, academic and service user perspectives. The team had expertise in the development and testing of complex health behaviour interventions, opioid tapering and pain management in primary and secondary care, I.T programming, and software development—to develop an opioid tapering App.

Participants

The I-WOTCH trial participants are adults (18 years and over) with chronic non-malignant pain using strong opioids for at least 3 months and on most days in the preceding month.

Outcomes

A multicomponent self-management support package to help people using opioids for chronic non-malignant pain reduce opioid use.

Interventions and results

Receiving information on the impact of long-term opioid use, and potential adverse effects were highlighted as important facilitators in making the decision to reduce opioids. Case studies of those who have successfully stopped taking opioids were also favoured as a facilitator to reduce opioid use. Barriers included the need for a ‘trade-off to fill the deficit of the effect of the drug’. The final I-WOTCH intervention consists of an 8–10 week programme incorporating: education; problem-solving; motivation; group and one to one tailored planning; reflection and monitoring. A detailed facilitator manual was developed to promote consistent delivery of the intervention across the UK.

Conclusions

We describe the development of an opioid reduction intervention package suitable for testing in the I-WOTCH randomised controlled trial.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN49470934.
Effect of relative income price on smoking initiation among adolescents in Ghana: evidence from pseudo-longitudinal data
Authors: Boachie Micheal Kofi , Immurana Mustapha , Tingum Ernest Ngeh , Mdege Noreen Dadirai , Ross Hana
Published: March 2022

Objective

Many smokers initiate smoking during adolescence. Making tobacco products less affordable is one of the best ways to control tobacco use. Studies on the effect of relative income price (RIP (ie, affordability)) of cigarettes on smoking initiation are scarce in low-income and middle-income countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa where data are limited. The goal of this study is to examine the effect of cigarette RIP on adolescent smoking initiation in Ghana.

Setting

The study uses a pseudo-longitudinal data set constructed from the Global Youth Tobacco Surveys (GYTS (2000–2009 and 2017)) and RIP for the most sold cigarette brand in Ghana.

Participants

The GYTS is a national survey on adolescents.

Primary and secondary outcome

Effect of RIP on adolescent smoking initiation in Ghana.

Results

Using the GYTS 2000–2009 data, we find that the probability of smoking initiation falls significantly in response to a higher RIP, with an elasticity of −0.372 (95% CI −0.701 to −0.042) for the unmatched sample and −0.490 (95% CI −0.818 to −0.161) for the matched sample. The RIP elasticity for women ((−0.888) (95% CI −1.384 to −0.392) and (−0.928) (95% CI −1.434 to −0.422)) is statistically significant at 1% in both the unmatched and the matched samples, respectively, while the RIP elasticity for men is statistically insignificant in the 2000–2009 surveys. Analysis of the 2017 GYTS shows a similar outcome: a negative relationship between RIP and smoking initiation, and the results are statistically significant for both men and women, and for both matched and unmatched samples.

Conclusion

The affordability (RIP) of cigarettes is negatively related to the probability of smoking initiation among adolescents in Ghana. Raising tobacco taxes in line with income growth would make cigarettes less affordable and dissuade adolescents from initiating smoking.
Scaling up the primary health integrated care project for chronic conditions in Kenya: study protocol for an implementation research project
Authors: Nolte Ellen , Kamano Jemima H , Naanyu Violet , Etyang Anthony , Gasparrini Antonio , Hanson Kara , Koros Hillary , Mugo Richard , Murphy Adrianna , Oyando Robinson , Pliakas Triantafyllos , Were Vincent , Willis Ruth , Barasa Edwine , Perel Pablo
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Amid the rising number of people with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Kenya has invested in strengthening primary care and in efforts to expand existing service delivery platforms to integrate NCD care. One such approach is the AMPATH (Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare) model in western Kenya, which provides the platform for the Primary Health Integrated Care Project for Chronic Conditions (PIC4C), launched in 2018 to further strengthen primary care services for the prevention and control of hypertension, diabetes, breast and cervical cancer. This study seeks to understand how well PIC4C delivers on its intended aims and to inform and support scale up of the PIC4C model for integrated care for people with NCDs in Kenya.

Methods and analysis

The study is guided by a conceptual framework on implementing, sustaining and spreading innovation in health service delivery. We use a multimethod design combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, involving: (1) in-depth interviews with health workers and decision-makers to explore experiences of delivering PIC4C; (2) a cross-sectional survey of patients with diabetes or hypertension and in-depth interviews to understand how well PIC4C meets patients’ needs; (3) a cohort study with an interrupted time series analysis to evaluate the degree to which PIC4C leads to health benefits such as improved management of hypertension or diabetes; and (4) a cohort study of households to examine the extent to which the national hospital insurance chronic care package provides financial risk protection to people with hypertension or diabetes within PIC4C.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received approvals from Moi University Institutional Research and Ethics Committee (FAN:0003586) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (17940). Workshops with key stakeholders at local, county, national and international levels will ensure early and wide dissemination of our findings to inform scale up of this model of care. We will also publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Beyond patient care: a qualitative study of rural hospitals’ role in improving community health
Authors: Nataliansyah Mochamad Muska , Zhu Xi , Vaughn Thomas , Mueller Keith
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Rural population face more health disadvantages than those living in urban and suburban areas. In rural communities, hospitals are frequently the primary organisation with the resources and capabilities to address health issues. This characteristic highlights their potential to be a partner and leader for community health initiatives. This study aims to understand rural hospitals’ motivations to engage in community health improvement efforts and examine their strategies to address community health issues.

Design

Eleven semistructured interviews were conducted with key leaders from four rural hospitals in a US Midwestern state. On-site and telephone interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. The combination of inductive and deductive qualitative analysis was applied to identify common themes and categories.

Settings

Participating hospitals are located in US rural counties that have demonstrated progress in creating healthier communities.

Results

Three types of motivation drive rural hospitals’ community health improvement efforts: internal values, economic conditions and social responsibilities. Three categories of strategies to address community health issues were identified: building capacity, building relationships and building programmes.

Conclusions

Despite the challenges, rural hospitals can successfully conduct community-oriented programmes. The finds extend the literature on how rural hospitals may strategise to improve rural health by engaging their communities and conduct activities beyond patient care.
Why machine learning (ML) has failed physical activity research and how we can improve
Authors: Fuller Daniel , Ferber Reed , Stanley Kevin
Published: March 2022

Measuring physical activity is a critical issue for our understanding of the health benefits of human movement. Machine learning (ML), using accelerometer data, has become a common way to measure physical activity. ML has failed physical activity measurement research in four important ways. First, as a field, physical activity researchers have not adopted and used principles from computer science. Benchmark datasets are common in computer science and allow the direct comparison of different ML approaches. Access to and development of benchmark datasets are critical components in advancing ML for physical activity. Second, the priority of methods development focused on ML has created blind spots in physical activity measurement. Methods, other than cut-point approaches, may be sufficient or superior to ML but these are not prioritised in our research. Third, while ML methods are common in published papers, their integration with software is rare. Physical activity researchers must continue developing and integrating ML methods into software to be fully adopted by applied researchers in the discipline. Finally, training continues to limit the uptake of ML in applied physical activity research. We must improve the development, integration and use of software that allows for ML methods’ broad training and application in the field.
Activation-induced colocalisation of SCAMP5 with IFNα in human plasmacytoid dendritic cells
Authors: Pouw Juliëtte N , Olde Nordkamp Michel A M , O'Toole Tom G , Radstake Timothy R D J , Leijten Emmerik F A , Boes Marianne
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are the main producers of type I interferon (IFN) in SLE. pDCs express high secretory carrier membrane protein 5 (SCAMP5). Recent work in transfected HEK cells connects SCAMP5 to the type I IFN secretory pathway. To further study the role of SCAMP5 in IFNα secretion by pDCs, we focused on the subcellular distribution of SCAMP5 in human pDCs freshly isolated from peripheral blood.

Methods

We measured SCAMP5 expression by flow cytometry in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy subjects (n=8). Next, we assessed the colocalisation of SCAMP5 with IFNα in pDCs of healthy subjects (n=4) by evaluating bright detail similarity (BDS) scores using ImageStream technology.

Results

We confirm that SCAMP5 is highly expressed by pDCs derived from peripheral blood. In activated pDCs, we show that SCAMP5 colocalises with IFNα (mean BDS 2.0±0.1; BDS >2.0 in 44% of pDCs).

Conclusion

SCAMP5 colocalises with IFNα in activated human pDCs, in support of a role of this trafficking protein in the secretion of type I IFN by pDCs.
Complexity of dynamical cylindrical system in f(G, T) gravity
Authors: Sharif M. , Hassan Komal
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this paper is to formulate a complexity factor for a non-static cylindrical structure in the background of [Formula: see text] gravity, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] represent the Gauss–Bonnet term and trace of the energy–momentum tensor, respectively. Different physical factors such as inhomogeneous energy density, anisotropic pressure, heat dissipation and modified terms are considered as candidates of complexity. In order to determine a complexity factor encompassing the essential aspects of the system, we apply the technique of orthogonal splitting to the Riemann tensor. We also study evolution of the cylinder through two modes: homologous and homogeneous. Further, we utilize the complexity-free and homologous conditions to examine the dissipative and non-dissipative self-gravitating system. Finally, the factors responsible for inducing complexity during the evolution system are inspected. We deduce that the modified terms in [Formula: see text] gravity make the system more complex.
The perfection of local semi-flows and local random dynamical systems with applications to SDEs
Authors: Ling Chengcheng , Scheutzow Michael , Vorkastner Isabell
Published: March 2022

We provide a rather general perfection result for crude local semi-flows taking values in a Polish space showing that a crude semi-flow has a modification which is a (perfect) local semi-flow which is invariant under a suitable metric dynamical system. Such a (local) semi-flow induces a (local) random dynamical system (RDS). Then we show that this result can be applied to several classes of stochastic differential equations driven by semimartingales with stationary increments such as equations with locally monotone coefficients and equations with singular drift. For these examples it was previously unknown whether they generate a (local) RDS or not.
Lactose Biosensor Development and Deployment in Dairy Product Analysis
Authors: Halpin Grace , McEntee Sinead , Dwyer Catherine , Lawless Fergal , Dempsey Eithne
Published: March 2022

Herein, development of an enzymatic biosensor for rapid quantitation of the disaccharide lactose in dairy samples (whey permeates and milk protein isolates (MPI)) is presented. Biosensor fabrication involved a chitosan/enzyme/crosslinker configuration with enzymes glucose oxidase and β-galactosidase at platinum and glassy carbon electrodes. Solution phase mediation was used to lower the operating potential (Eapp = 0.3 V vs Ag/AgCl), minimising any contribution from endogenous background electroactive species. Potential sweep and potentiostatic experiments realised analytical data for the lactose sensor with linear range 5.83 × 10−3 to 1.65 × 10−2 M, sensitivity 9.41 × 10−4 C cm−2 mM−1 and LOD of 1.38 mM. Scanning electrochemical microscopy realised surface characterisation of the enzyme layers with approach curves and redox competition mode imaging achieved over the active enzyme bilayer. Both glucose and lactose sensing was realised in whey permeate sample measuring 23.7 mM lactose, correcting for free glucose contributing signals, with 92.2% correlation with results obtained from the sample certificate of analysis. Solution phase mediation at glassy carbon enzyme electrodes resulted in lactose quantitation in milk protein isolates, measuring 1.16 mM for the MPI 1 (low lactose) and 1.54 mM for the MPI 10 (standard) sample with validation by HPLC analysis.
Perspective—Electrochemical Sensors for Neurotransmitters and Psychiatrics: Steps toward Physiological Mental Health Monitoring
Authors: Zamani Marjon , Wilhelm Tatum , Furst Ariel L.
Published: March 2022

Therapeutic monitoring of neurotransmitters (NTs) and psychiatric medications is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. However, in-vivo monitoring of NTs in humans as well as continuous physiological monitoring of psychiatrics have yet to be realized. In pursuit of this goal, there has been a plethora of work to develop electrochemical sensors for both in-vivo NT monitoring as well as in-vitro detection of psychiatric medications. We review these sensors here while discussing next steps needed to achieve concurrent, continuous physiological monitoring of NTs and psychiatric medications as part of a closed-loop feedback system that guides medication administration.
Assessing the Versatility and Robustness of Pore Network Modeling to Simulate Redox Flow Battery Electrode Performance
Authors: van der Heijden Maxime , van Gorp Rik , Sadeghi Mohammad Amin , Gostick Jeffrey , Forner-Cuenca Antoni
Published: March 2022

Porous electrodes are core components that determine the performance of redox flow batteries. Thus, optimizing their microstructure is a powerful approach to reduce system costs. Here we present a pore network modeling framework that is microstructure and chemistry agnostic, iteratively solves transport equations in both half-cells, and utilizes a network-in-series approach to simulate the local transport phenomena within porous electrodes at a low computational cost. In this study, we critically assess the versatility and robustness of pore network models to enable the modeling of different electrode geometries and redox chemistries. To do so, the proposed model was validated with two commonly used carbon fiber-based electrodes (a paper and a cloth), by extracting topologically equivalent networks from X-ray tomograms, and evaluated for two model redox chemistries (an aqueous iron-based and a non-aqueous TEMPO-based electrolyte). We find that the modeling framework successfully captures the experimental performance of the non-aqueous electrolyte but is less accurate for the aqueous electrolyte which was attributed to incomplete wetting of the electrode surface in the conducted experiments. Furthermore, the validation reveals that care must be taken when extracting networks from the tomogram of the woven cloth electrode, which features a multiscale microstructure with threaded fiber bundles. Employing this pore network model, we elucidate structure-performance relationships by leveraging the performance profiles and the simulated local distributions of physical properties and finally, we deploy simulations to identify efficient operation envelopes.
The respiratory modulation of interoception
Authors: Molle Ludovic , Coste Alexandre
Published: March 2022

In a recent article published in The Journal of Neurophysiology titled “Sensitivity to changes in rate of heartbeats as a measure of interoceptive ability,” Larsson et al. ( J Neurophysiol 126: 1799–1813, 2021) introduce a new method to evaluate the interoceptive ability and report a surprising tendency in humans to perceive fewer heartbeats during spontaneous increases in resting heart rate. The authors argue that this result reflects a reduction in the strength of the heartbeat during the inspiration periods. Here, we discuss this finding and propose a complementary interpretation grounded on consciousness research and an emerging literature showing the influence of the breathing phase on perception and brain activity at rest.
Application of Da Vinci Robot and Thoracoscopy in Radical Lung Cancer Surgery
Authors: Qi Fenqiang , Xiang Minfeng , Deng Yuxin , Huang Wei , Sun Yan
Published: March 2022

In this article, we have explored the feasibility and safety of Da Vinci’s robotic surgery system in the radical resection of lung cancer. For this purpose, 73 cases of patients with lung cancer who underwent radical resection in the thoracic surgery of our hospital, particularly from July to September 2020, were collected, of which 22 cases operated with the Da Vinci robot were the Da Vinci robot group, including 11 men and 11 women. The 51 patients who underwent thoracoscopic surgery were in the thoracoscopic group, including 24 males and 27 females. All 22 patients in the Da Vinci robot group completed the operation under the Da Vinci robot operation system without conversion to thoracotomy. In the thoracoscopic group, 49 patients successfully completed the operation under thoracoscopy, and 2 patients were converted to thoracotomy. There was a significant difference between the two groups in the average operation time and the number of lymph nodes, but there was no significant difference in the amount of intraoperative bleeding and postoperative hospital stay. Compared with thoracoscopic radical lung cancer surgery, Da Vinci’s robotic surgery system is equally safe and effective, and more lymph nodes are cleaned during surgery.
Interpretable Optimization Training Strategy-Based DCNN and Its Application on CT Image Recognition
Authors: Wang Ronghan , Liu Tao , Lu Junwei , Zhou Yuwei
Published: March 2022

The theoretical basis of the discrete random sample batch classification is not clear and the sample division is not scientific during the process of Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN) model training. Aiming at the problems above, starting from the DCNN detection recognition mechanism, the theory of random discrete samples is given and proved, and a scientific quantitative batch of sample input method is proposed. Combined with image preprocessing, based on the strategy of random dispersion of samples, and scientifically quantified sample input batches, the DCNN model is trained with limited label samples, and then the CT image recognition of pulmonary nodules is carried out. Experimental results based on the LIDC-ID-RI public dataset show that the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the proposed method have reached 96.40%, 95.60%, and 96.00%, respectively. Compared with the multiscale convolutional neural network method and the multiscale multimode image fusion method, the recognition accuracy of the proposed method is improved by 1.6 and 3.49 percentage points, respectively.
Meta-Analysis of the Clinical Effect of MIS-TLF Surgery in the Treatment of Minimally Invasive Surgery of the Orthopaedic Spine
Authors: Yang Wanliang , Pan Xin , Xiao Xun
Published: March 2022

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has already had a significant impact on surgical treatment (spine). Because they are less invasive, minimally invasive treatments are often preferred over open spine surgery. MIS and open spine surgery in terms of posterior lumbar fusion (PLF), lumbar disc herniation (LDH), and cervical disc herniation (CDH) were all observational studies based on randomized controlled trials. Seventeen RCTs and six observational studies were conducted. Chemotherapy had no effect on the long-term alleviation of the neck or arm pain in patients with CDH. In LDH, MIS was superior in terms of pain relief, rehospitalization rates, and improvement in quality of life. At the expense of increased perioperative endoscopic, readmission, and revision rates, MIS achieved a significant reduction in 2-year expenditures, fewer medical problems, and improved Oswestry score ratings. There is no evidence to support the use of MIS over open surgery for lumbar or cervical process disc herniation. In comparison, MIS-TLIF has several advantages, in addition to lower revision/readmission rates. However, MIS significantly increases the surgeon’s radiation exposure, regardless of the patient’s sign. However, the effect on patients is unknown. These findings could help patients make better decisions when comparing open spine surgery to minimally invasive spine surgery, especially given how much advertising is out there for MIS.
A Study on the Optimization Simulation of Big Data Video Image Keyframes in Motion Models
Authors: Guo Jianbang , Sun Peng , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: March 2022

In this paper, the signal of athletic sports video image frames is processed and studied according to the technology of big data. The sports video image-multiprocessing technology achieves interference-free research and analysis of sports technology and can meet multiple visual needs of sports technology analysis and evaluation through key technologies such as split-screen synchronous comparison, superimposed synchronous comparison, and video trajectory tracking. The sports video image-processing technology realizes the rapid extraction of key technical parameters of the sports scene, the panoramic map technology of sports video images, the split-lane calibration technology, and the development of special video image analysis software that is innovative in the field of athletics research. An image-blending approach is proposed to alleviate the problem of simple and complex background data imbalance, while enhancing the generalization ability of the network trained using small-scale datasets. Local detail features of the target are introduced in the online-tracking process by an efficient block-filter network. Moreover, online hard-sample learning is utilized to avoid the interference of similar objects to the tracker, thus improving the overall tracking performance. For the feature extraction problem of fuzzy videos, this paper proposes a fuzzy kernel extraction scheme based on the low-rank theory. The scheme fuses multiple fuzzy kernels of keyframe images by low-rank decomposition and then deblurs the video. Next, a double-detection mechanism is used to detect tampering points on the blurred video frames. Finally, the video-tampering points are located, and the specific way of video tampering is determined. Experiments on two public video databases and self-recorded videos show that the method is robust in fuzzy video forgery detection, and the efficiency of fuzzy video detection is improved compared to traditional video forgery detection methods.
CALCRL Gene is a Suitable Prognostic Factor in AML/ETO+ AML Patients
Authors: Wang Rongrong , Li Miao , Bai Yujia , Jiao Yang , Qi Xiaofei
Published: March 2022

Introduction. The t(8 ; 21) translocation is the most common chromosomal abnormality in human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) subtype 2 (M2), which forms the AML/ETO fusion gene. However, AML/ETO alone does not necessarily cause leukemia. Other factors are thought to contribute to the disease. Calcitonin receptor-like (CALCRL), a G-protein-coupled neuropeptide receptor, is involved in various biological processes, such as colony formation and drug resistance. Methods. First, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases were used to determine any differences in CALCRL expression in AML patients with and without AML/ETO and the prognostic significance of CALCRL expression in AML patients was further evaluated. Next, we detected the CALCRL expression level in 67 AML/ETO+ AML patients and 16 patients with nonmalignant hematological diseases using qRT-PCR and identified its prognostic relevance. Results. Individuals in the group expressing low levels of CALCRL had a longer median survival time. In AML/ETO+ AML patients, higher mRNA levels of CALCRL were observed before treatment, which decreased after the complete remission that followed multiple chemotherapy sessions. Clinical features indicated that more patients in the CALCRLhigh group also had c-kit mutations compared with patients in other groups. Overall survival (OS) was longer in patients with lower levels of CALCRL expression, especially in patients with c-kit mutations or with more blast cells in bone marrow (BM). In addition, a longer OS was observed in the CALCRLlow group after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Conclusions. This preliminary study indicates that CALCRL could serve as a suitable prognostic factor in AML/ETO+ AML patients.