bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The crosstalk between subjective fibromyalgia, mental health symptoms and the use of over-the-counter analgesics in female Syrian refugees: a cross-sectional web-based study
Authors: Gammoh Omar , Aljabali Alaa A. A. , Tambuwala Murtaza M.
Published: January 2024

Suboptimal fibromyalgia management with over-the-counter analgesics leads to deteriorated outcomes for pain and mental health symptoms especially in low-income countries hosting refugees. To examine the association between the over-the-counter analgesics and the severity of fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms in a cohort of Syrian refugees. This is a cross-sectional study. Fibromyalgia was assessed using the patient self-report survey for the assessment of fibromyalgia. Depression was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, insomnia severity was measured using the insomnia severity index (ISI-A), and PTSD was assessed using the Davidson trauma scale (DTS)-DSM-IV. Data were analyzed from 291. Among them, 221 (75.9%) reported using acetaminophen, 79 (27.1%) reported using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and 56 (19.2%) reported receiving a prescription for centrally acting medications (CAMs). Fibromyalgia screening was significantly associated with using NSAIDs (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.58–5.80, p = 0.001). Severe depression was significantly associated with using NSAIDs (OR 2.07, 95% CI 2.18–3.81, p = 0.02) and CAMs (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.30–5.76, p = 0.008). Severe insomnia was significantly associated with the use of CAMs (OR 3.90, 95% CI 2.04–5.61, p < 0.001). PTSD symptoms were associated with the use of CAMs (β = 8.99, p = 0.001) and NSAIDs (β = 10.39, p < 0.001). Improper analgesics are associated with poor fibromyalgia and mental health outcomes, prompt awareness efforts are required to address this challenge for the refugees and health care providers.
Identifying climate memory impacts on climate network analysis: a new approach based on fractional integral techniques
Authors: Wei Zhichao , Yuan Naiming
Published: January 2024

Climate network (CN) analysis has shown great potential in detecting early warning signals for major climate events, but it is still challenging to reveal the underlying mechanisms. One possible reason for this issue is related to the ubiquitous climate memory, which may affect the calculations of links in climate networks, and further hinder us from a clear judgment on the sources of the early warning signal. Here in this study, we aim at identifying the climate memory impacts on the CN analysis. Combining with the Fractional Integral Statistical Model (FISM), we proposed a new approach named as CN-FISM. With FISM, one can extract the climate memory component and modify the considered time series into new series with a given length of memory preserved. By repeating the CN analysis, one thus can quantify the impacts of climate memory. We employed this approach to a recent CN analysis on the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) phase change. By comparing the CN results based on data with different memory lengths preserved, we found the climate memory within timescale of 2 years plays an important role in the arising of the early warning signal for the PDO phase change. This finding suggests that some physical processes on timescale of 2 years may be crucial for the PDO phase change, according to which one may better understand its underlying mechanisms. Compared with the current Pearson correlation-based CN approach, the CN-FISM offers the potential of improved interpretability of the CN results.
Mitochondrial damage and impaired mitophagy contribute to disease progression in SCA6
Authors: Leung Tsz Chui Sophia , Fields Eviatar , Rana Namrata , Shen Ru Yi Louisa , Bernstein Alexandra E. , Cook Anna A. , Phillips Daniel E. , Watt Alanna J.
Published: January 2024

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6) is a neurodegenerative disease that manifests in midlife and progressively worsens with age. SCA6 is rare, and many patients are not diagnosed until long after disease onset. Whether disease-causing cellular alterations differ at different disease stages is currently unknown, but it is important to answer this question in order to identify appropriate therapeutic targets across disease duration. We used transcriptomics to identify changes in gene expression at disease onset in a well-established mouse model of SCA6 that recapitulates key disease features. We observed both up- and down-regulated genes with the major down-regulated gene ontology terms suggesting mitochondrial dysfunction. We explored mitochondrial function and structure and observed that changes in mitochondrial structure preceded changes in function, and that mitochondrial function was not significantly altered at disease onset but was impaired later during disease progression. We also detected elevated oxidative stress in cells at the same disease stage. In addition, we observed impairment in mitophagy that exacerbates mitochondrial dysfunction at late disease stages. In post-mortem SCA6 patient cerebellar tissue, we observed metabolic changes that are consistent with mitochondrial impairments, supporting our results from animal models being translatable to human disease. Our study reveals that mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired mitochondrial degradation likely contribute to disease progression in SCA6 and suggests that these could be promising targets for therapeutic interventions in particular for patients diagnosed after disease onset.
Biomechanical properties measured with dynamic Scheimpflug analyzer in central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Aoki Shuichiro , Asaoka Ryo , Azuma Keiko , Kitamoto Kohdai , Ueda Kohei , Inoue Tatsuya , Obata Ryo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Recent evidence suggests that venous congestion at the vortex vein significantly contributes to the development of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR), and sclera is observed to be thicker in affected eyes. This study aims to investigate whether eyes with CSCR exhibit stiff corneas, measured using Corneal Visualization Scheimflug Technology (Corvis ST), which may serve as an indicator of scleral stiffness.

Methods

This retrospective case–control study comprises 52 eyes from 33 patients diagnosed with CSCR and 52 eyes from 32 normal controls without CSCR. We compared biomechanical parameters measured with Corvis ST and anterior scleral thickness measured using anterior segment swept-source optical coherence tomography between the two groups.

Results

Age, sex, axial length, intraocular pressure, and central corneal thickness showed no significant differences between the two groups (p > 0.05, linear mixed model). Three biomechanical parameters—peak distance, maximum deflection amplitude, and integrated inverse radius—indicated less deformability in CSCR eyes compared to control eyes. The stress–strain index (SSI), a measure of stiffness, and anterior scleral thickness (AST) at temporal and nasal points were significantly higher in the CSCR eyes. SSI and AST were not correlated, yet both were significantly and independently associated with CSCR in a multivariate logistic regression model.

Conclusions

Eyes affected by CSCR have stiffer corneas, irrespective of thicker scleral thickness. This suggests that stiffer sclera may play a role in the pathogenesis of CSCR.
Insights from the preimaginal morphology of the constans species-group, to reveal novel morphological patterns of the Merodon albifrons-evolutionary lineage (Diptera, Syrphidae)
Authors: Aracil Andrea , Andrić Andrijana , Rojo Santos , Shparyk Viktor , Mishustin Ruslan , Popov Grigory , Radenković Snežana , Vujić Ante , Pérez-Bañón Celeste
Published: January 2024

Merodon triangulum Vujić, Radenković & Hurkmans, 2020 is a European endemic hoverfly species belonging to Merodon constans species-group, inside albifrons-lineage. The distribution of this species is known to be mostly central Europe and Balkan peninsula and it has been categorized as Near Threatened in the European IUCN red list of hoverflies; this paper cites the species for the first time in Ukraine (western Ukraine, specifically). In the present study, the preimaginal stages of this species are described and figured using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The material used for the descriptions were larvae collected in Ukraine and Serbia feeding inside underground storage organs of the spring snowflake Leucojum vernum L., 1753. This morphological description constitutes the first one inside the constans species-group, and the sixth description of the albifrons-lineage, in which there is only one species-group left to have at least one species of the preimaginal stages described (i.e., ruficornis species-group). The descriptions were compared with the rest available of the genus, stating the diagnostical characters of the present species and the shared characters inside the lineage. The novel information provided on the trophic interaction between M. triangulum larvae and Leucojum bulbs is stated for the first time and further supports the association of the constans species-group with the underground storage organs of snowflakes and snowdrops (Galantheae) in their role as host plants.
Endoclip combined with colonic transendoscopic enteral tubing: a new approach for managing iatrogenic colonoscopy perforation
Authors: Jiang Xiaomeng , Ni Chunhua , Tabak Fatema , Li Yi , Zhang Faming
Published: January 2024

Background

Iatrogenic colonoscopy perforation (ICP) is a rare but most serious complication during colonoscopy investigation. However, endoscopic closure plays an important role in the dealing with ICP with the development of endoscopic techniques presently, there are still some portion of patients transferred to surgery.

Methods

Once a perforation was detected, endoclips were used to closed the defect of the colon. Then a colonic TET was planted inside the colon. The terminal end of the TET was put proximally to or near the location of the perforation. Then gas and fluid was sucked out through the TET with a syringe every 4 h.

Results

Three cases were treated with endoclip closure and colonic TET drainage. Case 1 was caused by urgent immediate perforation during routine colonoscopy, case 2 was delayed perforation after snare resection, and case 3 was ESD-related perforation. All patients got healed, no one transferred to surgery.

Conclusions

A combination of endoclip closure and colonic TET drainage might be an easy and potential method in the dealing with different types of ICP. This study may offer a novel paradigm for addressing endoscopy-related intestinal perforations.
Association of serum CTRP4 levels with vascular endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: CTRP4 ameliorating inflammation, proliferation and migration in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Gao Jie , Rouzi Mai Re YanMu , Zhang Huihui , Cai Xinghua , Xu Bilin , Lu Jun , Lei Tao
Published: January 2024

Objective

We investigated the correlation between serum C1q/TNF-related protein 4 (CTRP4) level and flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and evaluated the biological effects of CTRP4 on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Methods

A group of 165 patients diagnosed with T2DM were included in this study. Endothelial function was measured with the examination of brachial artery FMD. ELISA kit was used to measure the levels of CTRP4 in serum. HUVECs were stimulated with recombinant CTRP4 protein to assess its biological functions.

Results

The levels of CTRP4 showed a significant variation among three groups based on FMD tertiles (p = 0.001). What’s more, FMD had a significant difference among three CTRP4 tertile groups (p < 0.05) and was negatively related to serum CTRP4 levels (r = −0.270, p < 0.001). In T2DM patients, logistic regression analysis demonstrated that CTRP4 was the primary influence factor of low FMD (p < 0.01). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve of CTRP4 for predicting low FMD was 0.66 (95%CI 0.58–0.75). When stimulated HUVECs with recombinant CTRP4 protein, we found that CTRP4 could concentration-dependently ameliorate proliferation and migration of HUVECs in wounding healing and transwell assay. This protein could also decrease the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α and promote the release of NO in HUVEC supernatants, with suppression of NF-κB and STAT3 phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Serum CTRP4 concentrations were negatively associated with FMD. CTRP4 alleviated proliferation, migration and inflammation in HUVECs through the suppression of NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways.
Protective factors associated with resilience among unaccompanied refugee minors after settling in Norway: a matched cross-sectional study
Authors: Heimli Oda Marie , Kvestad Ingrid , Bøe Tormod , Sayyad Nawar , Nilsen Sondre Aasen , Randal Sølve , Askeland Kristin Gärtner
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to examine protective factors associated with resilience among unaccompanied refugee minors in comparison to their Norwegian peers and to examine associations between resilience factors and characteristics related to positive outcomes among unaccompanied minors. Data stem from the Pathways to Independence study conducted in Bergen municipality, Norway in 2018–2019 where 81 unaccompanied minors aged 15–20 participated (83.3% male; 80% response rate). An age- and sex-matched control group of 324 adolescents was retrieved from the youth@hordaland study conducted in Norway in 2012. Resilience factors were assessed by the Resilience Scale for Adolescents. Unaccompanied minors reported lower scores on Goal Orientation (d = 0.4), Social Competence (d = 0.4), and Social Support (d = 0.7) compared to Norwegian adolescents. Being male was associated with lower scores on Goal Orientation (standardized mean difference [SMD] = − 0.9) and Social Support (SMD = − 0.9) among unaccompanied minors, while being in frequent contact with family in the home country was associated with higher scores on all resilience factors (SMD range = 0.6–1.1). The number of leisure activities was associated with Social Competence (SMD = 0.22). There were no significant associations between the resilience factors and amount of support in the living arrangements or contact with the child welfare services. Unaccompanied minors reported fewer resilience factors compared to Norwegian adolescents, indicating that they may have different needs compared to other adolescents. Our study also suggests that frequent contact with family in the home country may be important to bolster positive development for unaccompanied minors after settlement.
Prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter spp. on soil and crops collected from agricultural fields in South Korea
Authors: Son Su Min , Ahn Eunbyeol , Ahn Sojin , Cho Seoae , Ryu Sangryeol
Published: January 2024

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter spp. is a rising public health concern worldwide. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of antibiotic-resistance genes and the virulence of Acinetobacter spp. isolated from soil and crops obtained from agricultural fields in South Korea. Eight Acinetobacter spp. isolates carried various antibiotic resistance genes, such as emrAB (100%), cat/craA (100%), and aadA gene (87.5%). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) analysis revealed that strains harboring antibiotic resistance genes exhibited high resistance to the respective antibiotics, such as colistin, chloramphenicol, and streptomycin. Interestingly, most of these isolates had high capability of biofilm formation and swarming motility, along with faster growth rates. Taken together, our study demonstrated that antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter isolated from agricultural settings in South Korea not only frequently carries antibiotic resistance genes but also has virulence-related traits.
Exploring complications following cranioplasty after decompressive hemicraniectomy: A retrospective bicenter assessment of autologous, PMMA and CAD implants
Authors: Pfnür A. , Tosin D. , Petkov M. , Sharon O. , Mayer B. , Wirtz C. R. , Knoll A. , Pala A.
Published: January 2024

Cranioplasty (CP) after decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) is a common neurosurgical procedure with a high complication rate. The best material for the repair of large cranial defects is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate different implant materials regarding surgery related complications after CP. Type of materials include the autologous bone flap (ABF), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), calcium phosphate reinforced with titanium mesh (CaP-Ti), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and hydroxyapatite (HA). A retrospective, descriptive, observational bicenter study was performed, medical data of all patients who underwent CP after DHC between January 1st, 2016 and December 31st, 2022 were analyzed. Follow-up was until December 31st, 2023. 139 consecutive patients with a median age of 54 years who received either PMMA (56/139; 40.3%), PEEK (35/139; 25.2%), CaP-Ti (21/139; 15.1%), ABF (25/139; 18.0%) or HA (2/139; 1.4%) cranial implant after DHC were included in the study. Median time from DHC to CP was 117 days and median follow-up period was 43 months. Surgical site infection was the most frequent surgery-related complication (13.7%; 19/139). PEEK implants were mostly affected (28.6%; 10/35), followed by ABF (20%; 5/25), CaP-Ti implants (9.5%; 2/21) and PMMA implants (1.7%, 1/56). Explantation was necessary for 9 PEEK implants (25.7%; 9/35), 6 ABFs (24.0%; 6/25), 3 CaP-Ti implants (14.3%; 3/21) and 4 PMMA implants (7.1%; 4/56). Besides infection, a postoperative hematoma was the most common cause. Median surgical time was 106 min, neither longer surgical time nor use of anticoagulation were significantly related to higher infection rates (p = 0.547; p = 0.152 respectively). Ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation prior to CP was noted in 33.8% (47/139) and not significantly associated with surgical related complications. Perioperative lumbar drainage, due to bulging brain, inserted in 38 patients (27.3%; 38/139) before surgery was protective when it comes to explantation of the implant (p = 0.035). Based on our results, CP is still related to a relatively high number of infections and further complications. Implant material seems to have a high effect on postoperative infections, since surgical time, anticoagulation therapy and hydrocephalus did not show a statistically significant effect on postoperative complications in this study. PEEK implants and ABFs seem to possess higher risk of postoperative infection. More biocompatible implants such as CaP-Ti might be beneficial. Further, prospective studies are necessary to answer this question.
Macrophages and angiogenesis in human lymphomas
Authors: Ribatti Domenico , Tamma Roberto , Annese Tiziana , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Specchia Giorgina
Published: January 2024

A link exists between chronic inflammation and cancer and immune cells, angiogenesis, and tumor progression. In hematologic malignancies, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are a significant part of the tumor microenvironment. Macrophages are classified into M1/classically activated and M2/alternatively activated. In tumors, TAMs are mainly constituted by M2 subtype, which promotes angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, repair, and remodeling, suppressing adaptive immunity, increasing tumor cell proliferation, drug resistance, histological malignancy, and poor clinical prognosis. The aim of our review article is to define the role of TAMs and their relationship with the angiogenesis in patients with lymphoma reporting both an analysis of main published data and those emerging from our studies. Finally, we have discussed the anti-angiogenic approach in the treatment of lymphomas.
Impacts of Adaptive Statistical Iterative Reconstruction-V and Deep Learning Image Reconstruction Algorithms on Robustness of CT Radiomics Features: Opportunity for Minimizing Radiomics Variability Among Scans of Different Dose Levels
Authors: Zhong Jingyu , Wu Zhiyuan , Wang Lingyun , Chen Yong , Xia Yihan , Wang Lan , Li Jianying , Lu Wei , Shi Xiaomeng , Feng Jianxing , Dong Haipeng , Zhang Huan , Yao Weiwu
Published: January 2024

This study aims to investigate the influence of adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V (ASIR-V) and deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) on CT radiomics feature robustness. A standardized phantom was scanned under single-energy CT (SECT) and dual-energy CT (DECT) modes at standard and low (20 and 10 mGy) dose levels. Images of SECT 120 kVp and corresponding DECT 120 kVp-like virtual monochromatic images were generated with filtered back-projection (FBP), ASIR-V at 40% (AV-40) and 100% (AV-100) blending levels, and DLIR algorithm at low (DLIR-L), medium (DLIR-M), and high (DLIR-H) strength levels. Ninety-four features were extracted via Pyradiomics. Reproducibility of features was calculated between standard and low dose levels, between reconstruction algorithms in reference to FBP images, and within scan mode, using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). The average percentage of features with ICC > 0.90 and CCC > 0.90 between the two dose levels was 21.28% and 20.75% in AV-40 images, and 39.90% and 35.11% in AV-100 images, respectively, and increased from 15.43 to 45.22% and from 15.43 to 44.15% with an increasing strength level of DLIR. The average percentage of features with ICC > 0.90 and CCC > 0.90 in reference to FBP images was 26.07% and 25.80% in AV-40 images, and 18.88% and 18.62% in AV-100 images, respectively, and decreased from 27.93 to 17.82% and from 27.66 to 17.29% with an increasing strength level of DLIR. DLIR and ASIR-V algorithms showed low reproducibility in reference to FBP images, while the high-strength DLIR algorithm provides an opportunity for minimizing radiomics variability due to dose reduction.
An Automatic Framework for Nasal Esthetic Assessment by ResNet Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Ashoori Maryam , Zoroofi Reza A. , Sadeghi Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Nasal base aesthetics is an interesting and challenging issue that attracts the attention of researchers in recent years. With that insight, in this study, we propose a novel automatic framework (AF) for evaluating the nasal base which can be useful to improve the symmetry in rhinoplasty and reconstruction. The introduced AF includes a hybrid model for nasal base landmarks recognition and a combined model for predicting nasal base symmetry. The proposed state-of-the-art nasal base landmark detection model is trained on the nasal base images for comprehensive qualitative and quantitative assessments. Then, the deep convolutional neural networks (CNN) and multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLP) models are integrated by concatenating their last hidden layer to evaluate the nasal base symmetry based on geometry features and tiled images of the nasal base. This study explores the concept of data augmentation by applying the methods motivated via commonly used image augmentation techniques. According to the experimental findings, the results of the AF are closely related to the otolaryngologists’ ratings and are useful for preoperative planning, intraoperative decision-making, and postoperative assessment. Furthermore, the visualization indicates that the proposed AF is capable of predicting the nasal base symmetry and capturing asymmetry areas to facilitate semantic predictions. The codes are accessible at https://github.com/AshooriMaryam/Nasal-Aesthetic-Assessment-Deep-learning.
Parallel homological calculus for 3D binary digital images
Authors: Díaz-del-Río Fernando , Molina-Abril Helena , Real Pedro , Onchis Darian , Blanco-Trejo Sergio
Published: January 2024

Topological representations of binary digital images usually take into consideration different adjacency types between colors. Within the cubical-voxel 3D binary image context, we design an algorithm for computing the isotopic model of an image, called (6,26)-Homological Region Adjacency Tree ((6,26)-Hom-Tree). This algorithm is based on a flexible graph scaffolding at the inter-voxel level called Homological Spanning Forest model (HSF).Hom-Treesare edge-weighted trees in which each node is a maximally connected set of constant-value voxels, which is interpreted as a subtree of the HSF. This representation integrates and relates the homological information (connected components, tunnels and cavities) of the maximally connected regions of constant color using 6-adjacency and 26-adjacency for black and white voxels, respectively (the criteria most commonly used for 3D images). The Euler-Poincaré numbers (which may as well be computed by counting the number of cells of each dimension on a cubical complex) and the connected component labeling of the foreground and background of a given image can also be straightforwardly computed from its Hom-Trees. Being$$I_D$$IDa 3D binary well-composed image (whereDis the set of black voxels), an almost fully parallel algorithm for constructing theHom-Treevia HSF computation is implemented and tested here. If$$I_D$$IDhas$$m_1{\times } m_2{\times } m_3$$m1×m2×m3voxels, the time complexity order of the reproducible algorithm is near$$O(\log (m_1{+}m_2{+}m_3))$$O(log(m1+m2+m3)), under the assumption that a processing element is available for each cubical voxel. Strategies for using the compressed information of theHom-Treerepresentation to distinguish two topologically different images having the same homological information (Betti numbers) are discussed here. The topological discriminatory power of theHom-Treeand the low time complexity order of the proposed implementation guarantee its usability within machine learning methods for the classification and comparison of natural 3Dimages.
Mapping the susceptibility of reefs to rubble accumulation across the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Leung Shu Kiu , Mumby Peter J.
Published: January 2024

Disturbance-induced rubble accumulations are described as “killing fields” on coral reefs as coral recruits suffer high post-settlement mortality, creating a bottleneck for reef recovery. The increasing frequency of coral bleaching events, that can generate rubble once coral dies, has heightened concerns that rubble beds will become more widespread and persistent. But we currently lack the tools to predict where rubble is most likely to accumulate. Here, we developed a modelling framework to identify areas that are likely to accumulate rubble on forereef slopes across the Great Barrier Reef. The algorithm uses new high-resolution bathymetric and geomorphic datasets from satellite remote sensing. We found that 47 km of reef slope (3% of the entire reef surveyed), primarily in the southern region, could potentially reach 50% rubble cover. Despite being statistically significant (p < 0.001), the effects of depth and aspect on rubble cover were minimal, with a 0.2% difference in rubble cover between deeper and shallower regions, as well as a maximum difference of 0.8% among slopes facing various directions. Therefore, we conclude that the effects of depth and aspect were insufficient to influence ecological processes such as larval recruitment and recovery in different coral communities. Maps of potential rubble accumulation can be used to prioritise surveys and potential restoration, particularly after major disturbances have occurred.
Examining the impact of digital financial inclusion on economic development in urban and rural areas of China using remote sensing
Authors: Li Jiaqi
Published: January 2024

The expansion and penetration of digital financial inclusion have provided new impetus to economic development. With the aim of investigating the non-spatial and spatial effects of digital financial inclusion on urban and rural economic development, we target 31 provinces from 2011 to 2019 and complement the research gap by processing luminosity-corrected GDP and land cover images to generate urban and rural GDP statistics. This study highlights the following conclusions: first, digital financial inclusion has positively localized effects on rural economic development. Additionally, the spatial spillover effect of digital financial inclusion in rural regions is more profound than that of traditional finance. Last, digital financial inclusion has spatial spillover effects in narrowing urban-rural inequality that traditional finance lacks. Overall, our research provides new insights into the role of digital financial inclusion in urban and rural areas.
Health-Oriented Environmental Categories, Individual Health Environments, and the Concept of Environment in Public Health
Authors: Malsch Annette K. F. , Killin Anton , Kaiser Marie I.
Published: January 2024

The term ‘environment’ is not uniformly defined in the public health sciences, which causes crucial inconsistencies in research, health policy, and practice. As we shall indicate, this is somewhat entangled with diverging pathogenic and salutogenic perspectives (research and policy priorities) concerning environmental health. We emphasise two distinct concepts of environment in use by the World Health Organisation. One significant way these concepts differ concerns whether the social environment is included. Divergence on this matter has profound consequences for the understanding of health and disease, for measures derived from that understanding targeting health promotion and disease prevention, and consequently, for epistemic structures and concept development in scientific practice. We hope to improve the given situation in public health by uncovering these differences and by developing a fruitful way of thinking about environment. Firstly, we side with the salutogenic conception of environment as a health resource (as well as a source of health risks). Secondly, we subdivide the concept of environment into four health-oriented environmental categories (viz., natural, built-material, socio-cultural, and psychosocial) and we link these with other theoretical notions proposed in the health sciences literature. Thirdly, we propose that in public health ‘environment’ should be understood as consisting of all extrinsic factors that influence or are influenced by the health, well-being, and development of an individual. Consequently, none of the four categories should be excluded from the concept of environment. We point out the practical relevance and fruitfulness of the conception of environment as a health source and frame this in causal terms, representing individual health environments as causal networks. Throughout, we side with the view that for the design of human health-promoting settings, increased attention and consideration of environmental resources of salutogenic potential is particularly pressing.
Three perspectives on leadership in higher education: traditionalist, reformist, pragmatist
Authors: Macfarlane Bruce , Bolden Richard , Watermeyer Richard
Published: January 2024

There is a fragmented and complex literature about higher education leadership representing a diversity of ideological perspectives about its nature and purposes. Internationally, the literature has been strongly shaped by the importation of concepts and theories from management studies and a tradition of scholarship led by university leader-researchers. Drawing on an extensive literature review—drawing on over 250 books, book chapters, reports and journal articles—this paper identifies three key perspectives. The Traditionalist perspective is concerned with the cultural context, arguing that the import of neoliberal business practices into university leadership and management has undermined academic self-governance. The Reformist perspective focuses on values from a social justice perspective arguing for a more democratic and inclusive style of leadership including participation from historically under-represented groups. Finally, the Pragmatist perspective is more functionally focused in identifying the capabilities, skills and competences needed for effective leadership in universities at all levels. These three perspectives provide important insights into the culture, values and competences of university leadership reflecting the distinctive culture of higher education (traditionalist), its values as a reflection of wider society (reformist) and how best to practically manage and achieve positive change in such an environment (pragmatist). An appreciation of these perspectives and the skills, values and knowledge embedded in the literature will facilitate the evolution of leadership development and practice in alignment with contemporary organisational needs and societal expectations.
Using remote-sensing and citizen-science data to assess urban biodiversity for sustainable cityscapes: the case study of Athens, Greece
Authors: Ziliaskopoulos Konstantinos , Laspidou Chrysi
Published: January 2024

Context

Urban biodiversity is an important and growing research area as cities continue to expand and human populations concentrate in urban centers. In order to effectively conserve urban biodiversity and inform future urban planning, a thorough understanding of the patterns and underlying factors affecting biodiversity is essential. However, a methodology of assessing urban biodiversity that would be replicable to different cities has been challenging, primarily due to data limitation on habitats and species in urban areas.

Objectives

In response to these challenges, this work implements a biodiversity analysis framework, adapted for the municipality of Athens, Greece, a city that is facing its own unique challenges in preserving biodiversity while accommodating urban growth. The analysis granularity is at the zipcode level.

Methods

A k-means clustering scheme that leads to theclassification of urban habitats is incorporated using earth observation data, while citizen science-generated species occurrence data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) platform is used for biodiversity analysis and validation. This integrative approach allows us to account for fine-scale environmental variation, which plays a crucial role in species' abundances and distributions in urban settings.

Results

Our analysis shows that the fact that almost 80% of the Athens land cover is impervious and lacks vegetation has serious effects on biodiversity in the city, which is very limited and is only abundant in Urban Green areas. The city’s dense urban fabric, followed by intense cementification, lack of open streams and noisy large arterial roads take a toll on urban species occurrences, which are up to 100 times less than the green and blue areas.

Conclusions

This work highlights the significance of zipcode-level analyses in understanding the complex interplay between urbanization and biodiversity. Furthermore, it shows that it is possible to assess urban biodiversity using free and open satellite data, without previously acquiring a high-resolution species occurrence dataset through field surveys, thus providing a comprehensive understanding of urban biodiversity patterns in cities like Athens.
Smart Bags and Smartphone for On-The-Spot Detection of Bleached Garlic
Authors: Sundarrajan Balachandar , Goel Ina , Sathe Aashutosh , Prabhu Anusha , Mani Naresh Kumar
Published: January 2024

This work outlines the fundamental principles underlying food science and nutrition, particularly garlic adulteration and detection. Few of the bioactive components in garlic, such as allicin and sulphur, have been associated with various health advantages. However, garlic adulteration using sodium hypochlorite (as a bleaching agent to enhance the texture and physical appearance) is highly harmful and at times can be lethal as well. A quick and accurate way for spotting bleached garlic is considered of paramount importance to circumvent adulteration. Herein, we developed smart bags using thread-based devices for detecting garlic bleached with sodium hypochlorite. Smart bags saturated with 1% w/v phenolphthalein indicator was found to be effective in detecting the presence of bleach adulteration in garlic. Furthermore, we have utilized smartphone integrated with Allium Detect application for the quantitative analysis of sodium hypochlorite on garlic. This dual approach offers several advantages over traditional detection techniques, as it allows for the detection of bleached garlic in minutes through a colour change from colourless to pink. This detection approach encompasses high sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, this innovative solution not only ensures the quality and safety of garlic but also has the potential to extend its benefits to other produce. The utilization of this reliable and efficient colorimetric detection approach not only fosters awareness but also advances public health by empowering individuals or non-expert to make accurate decisions regarding their food choices.
The Use of the Voice Trainer App for Vocal Control in People with a Degenerative Ataxia: A Pilot Intervention Study
Authors: Knuijt S. , Nonnekes J. , van de Warrenburg B. P. C. , Nijkamp M. , Scholten S. , de Swart B. J. M. , Kalf J. G.
Published: January 2024

Dysarthria is disabling in persons with degenerative ataxia. There is limited evidence for speech therapy interventions. In this pilot study, we used the Voice trainer app, which was originally developed for patients with Parkinson’s disease, as a feedback tool for vocal control. We hypothesized that patients with ataxic dysarthria would benefit from the Voice trainer app to better control their loudness and pitch, resulting in a lower speaking rate and better intelligibility. This intervention study consisted of five therapy sessions of 30 min within 3 weeks using the principles of the Pitch Limiting Voice Treatment. Patients received real-time visual feedback on loudness and pitch during the exercises. Besides, they were encouraged to practice at home or to use the Voice trainer in daily life. We used observer-rated and patient-rated outcome measures. The primary outcome measure was intelligibility, as measured by the Dutch sentence intelligibility test. Twenty-one out of 25 included patients with degenerative ataxia completed the therapy. We found no statistically significant improvements in intelligibility (p = .56). However, after the intervention, patients were speaking slower (p = .03) and the pause durations were longer (p < .001). The patients were satisfied about using the app. At the group level, we found no evidence for an effect of the Voice trainer app on intelligibility in degenerative ataxia. Because of the heterogeneity of ataxic dysarthria, a more tailor-made rather than generic intervention seems warranted.
Development of a 3D printed phantom for commissioning and quality assurance of multiple brain targets stereotactic radiosurgery
Authors: Mukwada Godfrey , Hirst Andrew , Rowshanfarzad Pejman , Ebert Martin A.
Published: January 2024

Single plan techniques for multiple brain targets (MBT) stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are now routine. Patient specific quality assurance (QA) for MBT poses challenges due to the limited capabilities of existing QA tools which necessitates several plan redeliveries. This study sought to develop an SRS QA phantom that enables flexible MBT patient specific QA in a single delivery, along with complex SRS commissioning. PLA marble and PLA StoneFil materials were selected based on the literature and previous research conducted in our department. The HU numbers were investigated to determine the appropriate percentage infill for skull and soft-tissue equivalence. A Prusa MK3S printer in conjunction with the above-mentioned filaments were used to print the SRS QA phantom. Quality control (QC) was performed on the printed skull, film inserts and plugs for point dose measurements. EBT3 film and point dose measurements were performed using a CC04 ionisation chamber. QC demonstrated that the SRS QA phantom transverse, coronal and sagittal film planes were orthogonal within 0.5°. HU numbers for the skull, film inserts and plugs were 858 ± 20 and 35 ± 12 respectively. Point and EBT3 film dose measurements were within 2.5% and 3%/2 mm 95% gamma pass rate, respectively except one Gross Tumour Volume (GTV) that had a slightly lower gamma pass rate. Dose distributions to five GTVs were measured with EBT3 film in a single plan delivery on CyberKnife. In conclusion, an SRS QA phantom was designed, and 3D printed and its use for performing complex MBT patient specific QA in a single delivery was demonstrated.
Representation Matters: Content Analysis of Breastfeeding Images in a Commercial Stock Image Bank
Authors: Dinour Lauren M. , Shefchik Melanie
Published: January 2024

Several behavioral change theories posit that normative influences contribute to breastfeeding behaviors and disparities. Given that media has historically presented a narrow view of what is deemed normative in human milk feeding, this study describes who and what is represented in breastfeeding images available in a stock image bank, and whether differences exist based on the breastfeeding parent’s skin color. Using content analysis, the most relevant 2% (n = 2284) of breastfeeding and lactation images in Adobe Stock were coded for 60 variables within 12 categories, such as skin color, ability, setting, skin exposure, etc. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample, and the Chi-square test of independence and Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare images of breastfeeding parents with light and non-light skin color. Most images portrayed breastfeeding parents and breastfed children with light colored skin, only one child, an infant-aged child, and no other person. Scant images included accessories considered non-normative. Light skin parents were more frequently depicted with a wedding ring compared to non-light skin parents. Non-light skin parents were more often photographed outdoors compared to light skin parents. Images of light skin parents more frequently showed breast skin, whereas images of non-light skin parents more often showed nipple and/or areola skin. The paucity of diverse people and portrayals of breastfeeding in many ways mirror, and may even perpetuate, societal breastfeeding challenges and inequities. These findings highlight an immediate need for an expanded library of images showcasing a wider variety of breastfeeding experiences.
Correlates of metabolic syndrome in people with chronic spinal cord injury
Authors: Di Giulio F. , Castellini C. , Palazzi S. , Tienforti D. , Antolini F. , Felzani G. , Baroni M. Giorgio , Barbonetti A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

We aimed at identifying clinical risk factors or early markers of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in people with spinal cord injury (SCI) that would facilitate a timely diagnosis and implementation of preventive/therapeutic strategies.

Methods

One hundred sixty-eight individuals with chronic (> 1 year) SCI underwent clinical and biochemical evaluations. MetS was diagnosed according to modified criteria of the International Diabetes Federation validated in people with SCI. Wilcoxon rank-sum test and χ2 test were used to compare variables between groups with and without MetS. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to reveal independent associations with MetS among variables selected by univariate linear regression analyses.

Results

MetS was diagnosed in 56 of 132 men (42.4%) and 17 of 36 women (47.2%). At univariate regression analyses, putative predictors of MetS were an older age, a higher number of comorbidities, a lower insulin-sensitivity, the presence and intensity of pain, a shorter injury duration, a poorer leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and an incomplete motor injury. At the multiple logistic regression analysis, a significant independent association with MetS only persisted for a poorer LTPA in hours/week (OR: 0.880, 95% CI 0.770, 0.990) and more severe pain symptoms as assessed by the numeral rating scale (OR: 1.353, 95% CI 1.085, 1.793).

Conclusion

In people with chronic SCI, intense pain symptoms and poor LTPA may indicate a high likelihood of MetS, regardless of age, SCI duration, motor disability degree, insulin-sensitivity and comorbidities.
Motor cognition in plants: from thought to real experiments
Authors: Bonato Bianca , Castiello Umberto , Guerra Silvia , Wang Qiuran
Published: January 2024

Motor cognition involves the process of planning and executing goal–directed movements and recognizing, anticipating, and interpreting others’ actions. Motor cognitive functions are generally associated with the presence of a brain and are ascribed only to humans and other animal species. A growing body of evidence suggests that aneural organisms, like climbing plants, exhibit behaviors driven by the intention to achieve goals, challenging our understanding of cognition. Here, we propose an inclusive perspective under motor cognition to explain climbing plants’ behavior. We will first review our empirical research based on kinematical analysis to understand movement in pea plants. Then, we situate this empirical research within the current theoretical debate aimed at extending the principles of cognition to aneural organisms. A novel comparative perspective that considers the perception–action cycle, involving transforming perceived environmental elements into intended movement patterns, is provided.
Crowd-sourced symptom data in pollen allergy: testing a novel study approach for assessing the efficacy of food supplements
Authors: Dirr Lukas , Bastl Katharina , Bastl Maximilian , Bouchal Johannes M. , Berger Uwe E. , Grímsson Friðgeir
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Pollen allergy can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Recently, food supplements have gained in importance for persons suffering from pollen allergy. Still, there is not much research data on the efficacy of food supplements and the experienced relief, especially when choosing study designs that require less effort than randomized controlled trials (RCT).

Methods

A food supplement containing an Astragalus membranaceus root extract was administered to 328 voluntary participants during the 2018 birch, grass and ragweed pollen season in Austria. Participants documented their symptoms and medication intake in the online Patients Hay-fever Diary (PHD). All participants were asked to answer a quality-of-life questionnaire at the end of the study. Alongside with the adherence rate the overall symptom load index (SLI) and the nasal symptoms of the participants were monitored and compared to a filtered group of users from the PHD.

Results

The adherence rates range from 32.8% to 77.3%. Additional data like a quality-of-life questionnaire and the mean overall/nasal SLI showed differences between participants and the baseline. However, they were only statistically significant for the ragweed pollen season and the nasal symptoms.

Conclusion

The study design relied on the evaluation of crowd-source symptom data alone by comparing the participants with a baseline. The participant adherence turned out lower than expected; however a trend for reduced symptoms was found and is also supported by the quality-of-life questionnaire.
Anatomy Camp: A Medical Student-Run Outreach Program
Authors: Winter Ethan P. , Sammarco Josika , Hua Vivian , Martinez Orlando M. , Xiao Tianqi , Wish-Baratz Susanne
Published: January 2024

Anatomy Camp is a medical student-run program for underserved youth from communities near the university. Middle and high school students are invited to visit the medical school for an afternoon of interacting with medical students, informal learning of anatomy and wellness, and becoming inspired to consider medical and STEM professions.