bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Self-efficacy–Enhancing Interventions on Quality of Life of Cancer Survivors
Authors: Yan Kailei , Lengacher Cecile A. , Dandamrongrak Chawisa , Wang Hsiao-Lan , Hanson Ardis , Beckie Theresa
Published: June 2024

Background

The influence of self-efficacy–enhancing interventions on quality of life (QOL) is not clear with recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) because current reviews only evaluated self-efficacy as an outcome.

Objectives

We conducted a systematic review to examine the effect of self-efficacy–enhancing interventions on QOL among patients with cancer and to summarize the effective determinants for designing self-efficacy–enhancing interventions.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on studies published from January 2003 to May 2023 using PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Included studies were RCTs, adults diagnosed with cancer, interventions with explicit self-efficacy components, and QOL as the outcome.

Results

Nineteen RCTs were included. Risk-of-bias assessment revealed 12 studies with some concerns and 7 with high risk of bias. The mean intervention adherence rate was 88.2%; the most frequently listed reason for dropout was medical conditions and mortality. Self-efficacy interventions were shown to significantly improve at least 1 subscale of QOL in 9 of 19 studies, of which 7 studies used Bandura’s 4 sources of self-efficacy. The interventions with between-session intervals shorter than 2 weeks, of 12-week duration, and with an in-person delivery approach were the most effective.

Conclusions

Self-efficacy–enhancing interventions show potential beneficial effects on QOL among cancer survivors. Interventions that use Bandura’s 4 sources of self-efficacy strategies and have between-session intervals shorter than 2 weeks, an in-person approach, and 12-week intervention duration are recommended.

Implications for practice

Properly designed self-efficacy–enhancing interventions can facilitate behavioral change and improve QOL in cancer survivors.
Determining the optimal leading limb for gait initiation in unilateral transtibial amputees: A systematic review
Authors: Tafti Nahid , Pourhoseingholi Ensieh , Nouri Mohamad Javad
Published: June 2024

The selection of the leading limb during gait initiation in individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations can significantly affect various biomechanical parameters. However, there is currently no established recommendation for the suitable leading limb in this population. The systematic review was aimed to propose a preferred leading limb for gait initiation in individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations based on biomechanical parameters. Databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and ISI Web of Knowledge, were searched. The first selection criterion was based on abstracts and titles to address the research question. A total of seven studies were included in this review, and the Downs and Black's checklist was used by three researchers to assess the risk of bias. The review included a total of 61 adults with unilateral transtibial amputations, with a mean age range of 41 to 64.43 years. The confidence level of the included studies was poor, and the observational cohort was the most common study design (n = 5). Most of the studies were not replicable. Four of the included studies recommended the prosthetic limb as the preferred leading limb. Individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations may experience biomechanical benefits, including a more normal center of pressure path, reduced limb loading, and increased ankle energy generation, when leading with their prosthetic limb during gait initiation. However, further research is necessary to establish a more conclusive recommendation for the preferred leading limb in this population.
Breast Surgery in Adolescents
Authors: Hassan Bashar , Zeitouni Ferris , Ascha Mona , Sanders Renata , Berger Zackary , Fields Errol , Liang Fan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Both breast reduction surgery (BRS) in adolescent girls and chest masculinization surgery (CMS) transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) individuals improve physical discomfort and psychological well-being. Nonetheless, CMS in adolescents is highly contested due to concerns regarding safety and capacity for consent. Here, we compare both procedures to quantify trends in incidence, minimum age, and surgical outcomes.

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried from 2018 to 2021 for cisgender and TGNB adolescents 18 years or younger who underwent BRS or CMS. Our primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative complications within 30 days of surgery. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine if CMS was associated with postoperative complications.

Results

Of 2504 adolescents, the majority (n = 2186 [87.3%]) were cisgender female patients who underwent BRS, compared with TGNB adolescents (n = 318 [12.7%]) who underwent CMS. BRS patients were younger at time of surgery (mean [SD] 16.7 [1.2], 17.5 [0.9]; P < 0.001). The minimum age for BRS was consistently 2 to 3 years younger than that for CMS (12.1 to 12.6 years vs 14.0 to 15.1 years). A comparable frequency of BRS and CMS patients developed 1 or more complications within 30 days of surgery (n = 98 [4.5%], n = 13 [4.1%]; P = 0.775).

Conclusion

Cisgender female adolescents undergo breast surgery at a 7-fold rate compared with TGNB adolescents and do so at significantly younger ages. Given the favorable effects of BRS and CMS on psychosocial well-being and their comparable surgical risk of complications, our data help recontextualize the concerns surrounding adolescent CMS.
Indocyanine Green Angiography for Detecting Quantitative Perfusion Changes in Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction With Second Venous Drainage
Authors: Kramer Aviv , Lava Christian X. , Li Karen R. , Berger Lauren E. , Khayat Elias , Song David H.
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aims to compare perfusion dynamics using indocyanine green videoangiography before and after the creation of a second venous anastomosis between the superficial inferior epigastric vein and the retrograde internal mammary vein (IMV) in deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstructions.

Methods

Indocyanine green videoangiography performed during DIEP flap reconstructions was analyzed prospectively. The areas of interest were above the perforators with the highest intensity (complete perfusion), the most distal lateral edge of the flap (partial perfusion), and the next lowest intensity (ischemic). We compared the zone intensities before and after the second venous anastomosis, assessing venous drainage patency and functionality. Patient characteristics, operative details, and complications were collected.

Results

Seven patients (10 breasts) underwent DIEP reconstruction. Mean age was 54.5 ± 12.4 years. Mean operative duration was 575.5 ± 172.6 minutes. Donors included DIEV (n = 10, 100.0%), superficial inferior epigastric vein (n = 9, 90.0%), and superficial circumflex epigastric vein (n = 1, 10.0%). All DIEVs were anastomosed to the antegrade IMV (n = 10, 100.0%). Superficial inferior epigastric veins were anastomosed to the retrograde IMV (n = 10, 100.0%). Mean peak intensities of the complete perfusion zone before and after the second venous anastomosis were 160.7 ± 42.1 and 188 ± 42.1, respectively (P = 0.163). Mean peak intensities of the partial perfusion zone were 100.8 ± 21.5 and 152 ± 31.5, respectively (P < 0.001). Mean peak intensities of the ischemic zone were 90.4 ± 37.4 and 143.4 ± 45.3, respectively (P = 0.012).

Conclusion

These findings highlight the potential benefits of the super drainage technique in enhancing perfusion and reducing complications, emphasizing the need for further investigation and consideration of this technique in clinical practice.
Clinical Insights and Optimization of Surgical Approach for Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Injury/Entrapment
Authors: Rowley Emma , Suresh Rachana , de Rutier A. Godard , Dellon Lee , Tollestrup Tim W.
Published: June 2024

Background

Entrapment or injury of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) is being recognized with increasing frequency, often requiring a surgical approach to relieve symptoms. The presence of anatomic variations can lead to errors in diagnosis and intraoperative decision-making.

Methods

This study presents the experience of a single surgeon (T.W.T.) in managing 184 patients referred with clinical issues related to the LFCN. A comprehensive review of these cases was conducted to develop a prospective surgical management algorithm. Data on the LFCN's anatomic course, pain relief outcomes, comorbidities, body mass index, and sex were extracted from patients' medical charts and operative notes. Pain relief was assessed subjectively, categorized into “excellent relief” for complete pain resolution, “good” for substantial pain reduction with some residual discomfort, and “failure” for cases with no pain relief necessitating reoperation.

Results

The decision tree is dichotomized based on the mechanism of LFCN pathology: compression (requiring neurolysis) versus history of trauma, surgery, and/or obesity (requiring resection). Forty-seven percent of the patients in this series had an anatomic variation. It was found that failure to relieve symptoms of compression often indicated the presence of anatomic variation of the LFCN or intraneural changes consistent with a neuroma, even if adequate decompression was achieved. With respect to pain relief as the outcome measure, recognition of LFCN anatomic variability and use of this algorithm resulted in 75% excellent results, 10% good results, and 15% failures. Twenty-seven of the 36 failures originally had neurolysis as the surgical approach. Twelve of those failures had a second surgery, an LFCN neurectomy, resulting in 10 excellent, 1 good, and 1 persistent failure.

Conclusion

This article establishes an algorithm for the surgical treatment of MP, incorporating clinical experience and anatomical insights to guide treatment decisions. Criteria for considering neurectomy may include a history of trauma, prior local surgery, anatomical LFCN variations, and severe nerve damage due to chronic compression.
Balancing the Scales
Authors: Ewing Jane N. , Niu Ellen F. , Amro Chris , Gala Zachary , Lemdani Mehdi S. , Chang Ashley E. , Broach Robyn B. , Serletti Joseph M. , Fischer John P.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of obesity has risen worldwide, posing a problem to surgeons as obesity is a well-known risk factor for surgical outcomes. While prior studies have suggested performing reduction mammaplasty (RM) in patients with obesity, the variance in outcomes and quality of life (QoL) for obesity classes are ill-defined. We investigated whether obesity classes should be considered for RM by examining the surgical outcomes and QoL across different weight classes, aiming to pinpoint when outcomes become less favorable.

Methods

Patients undergoing RM by nine surgeons from 2016 to 2022 were included. Body mass index (BMI) cohorts were formed according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines: Healthy (18.5–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25–29.9 kg/m2), obesity class I (30–34.9 kg/m2), II (35–39.9 kg/m2), and III (>40 kg/m2). QoL was assessed by comparing preoperative and postoperative BREAST-Q scores within cohorts. A comparison analysis was performed between weight classes.

Results

A total of 461 RM patients were identified (healthy: 83, overweight: 178, I: 142, II: 39, III: 19). Percentage of Black patients, procedure length, weight of tissue removed, and inferior pedicle technique all significantly increased as BMI increased (P < 0.001). Higher BMI cohorts, especially class III, had significantly higher rates of surgical site infections (healthy: 0%, overweight: 1.1%, I: 1.4%, II: 0%, III: 15.8%, P < 0.01), fat necrosis (healthy: 1.2%, overweight: 5.1%, I: 7%, II: 0%, III: 22.2%, P = 0.01), dehiscence (healthy: 3.6%, overweight: 2.8%, I: 2.1%, II: 5.1%, III: 31.6%, P < 0.01), delayed healing (health: 4.8%, overweight: 11.2%, I: 16.9%, II: 28.2%, III: 42.1%, P < 0.01), minor T-point breakdown (healthy: 10.8%, overweight: 15.7%, I: 23.9%, II: 23.1%, III: 52.6%, P = 0.01), and surgical site occurrence requiring procedural intervention (healthy: 6.0%, overweight: 5.6%, I: 6.3%, II: 15.4%, III: 21.1%, P < 0.05). When compared to the other weight classes independently, class III was associated with unfavorable outcomes (P < 0.05). Significant improvement in average postoperative QoL scores in satisfaction with breast, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, and physical well-being were seen in all cohorts except class III (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Severe obesity class III patients undergoing RM have a higher yet still acceptable risk profile and should be counseled on the risks despite its improved quality of life.
Toxicity and magnetometry evaluation of the uptake of core-shell maghemite-silica nanoparticles by neuroblastoma cells
Authors: López-Martín Raúl , Aranda-Sobrino Nieves , De Enciso-Campos Nerea , Sánchez Elena H. , Castañeda-Peñalvo Gregorio , Lee Su Seong , Binns Chris , Ballesteros-Yáñez Inmaculada , De Toro Jose A. , Castillo-Sarmiento Carlos A.
Published: June 2024

Nanoparticle uptake by cells is a key parameter in their performance in biomedical applications. However, the use of quantitative, non-destructive techniques to obtain the amount of nanoparticles internalized by cells is still uncommon. We have studied the cellular uptake and the toxicity of core-shell maghemite-silica magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), with a core diameter of 9 nm and a shell thickness of 3 nm. The internalization of the nanoparticles by mouse neuroblastoma 2a cells was evaluated by sensitive and non-destructive Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetometry and corroborated by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy. We were thus able to study the toxicity of the nanoparticles for well-quantified MNP uptake in terms of nanoparticle density within the cell. No significant variation in cell viability or growth rate was detected for any tested exposure. Yet, an increase in both the amount of mitochondrial superoxide and in the lysosomal activity was detected for the highest concentration (100 μg ml
−1
) and incubation time (24 h), suggesting the onset of a disruption in ROS homeostasis, which may lead to an impairment in antioxidant responses. Our results validate SQUID magnetometry as a sensitive technique to quantify MNP uptake and demonstrate the non-toxic nature of these core-shell MNPs under our culture conditions.
Is SARS-CoV-2 elimination or mitigation best? Regional and disease characteristics determine the recommended strategy
Authors: Martignoni Maria M. , Arino Julien , Hurford Amy
Published: June 2024

Public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic varied across the world. Some countries (e.g. mainland China, New Zealand and Taiwan) implemented elimination strategies involving strict travel measures and periods of rigorous non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in the community, aiming to achieve periods with no disease spread; while others (e.g. many European countries and the USA) implemented mitigation strategies involving less strict NPIs for prolonged periods, aiming to limit community spread. Travel measures and community NPIs have high economic and social costs, and there is a need for guidelines that evaluate the appropriateness of an elimination or mitigation strategy in regional contexts. To guide decisions, we identify key criteria and provide indicators and visualizations to help answer each question. Considerations include determining whether disease elimination is: (1) necessary to ensure healthcare provision; (2) feasible from an epidemiological point of view and (3) cost-effective when considering, in particular, the economic costs of travel measures and treating infections. We discuss our recommendations by considering the regional and economic variability of Canadian provinces and territories, and the epidemiological characteristics of different SARS-CoV-2 variants. While elimination may be a preferable strategy for regions with limited healthcare capacity, low travel volumes, and few ports of entry, mitigation may be more feasible in large urban areas with dense infrastructure, strong economies, and with high connectivity to other regions.
What is the role of scientists in meeting the environmental challenges of the twenty-first century?
Authors: Gregory Richard D. , Bridle Jon , Wilson Jeremy D.
Published: June 2024

We live at a time of rapid and accelerating biodiversity loss and climate change that pose an existential risk to the environment, humanity, and social justice and stability. Governmental responses are seen by many citizens, including scientists, as inadequate, leading to an increase in civil protests and activism by those calling for urgent action to effect change. Here we consider the role(s) of scientists in responding to those challenges and engaging with policy given that when a scientist moves into political advocacy, reflecting their values and preferences, their objectivity and the value of scientific opinion may be seen as compromised. We then consider whether institutional setting and career stage may affect decisions to engage with policy or activism. Against this backcloth, we ask whether it is sufficient for scientists to act as impartial ‘brokers’ in societal decisions, arguing they should consider acting as ‘
Honest Advocates
’ in policy formation in some circumstances. Such advocacy can contribute to decision-making in a purposeful, well-informed manner, doing societal good without damaging the reputation of science. We encourage scientists to each reflect on their multiple roles in addressing the environmental challenges of our time.
Cue-based modulation of pain stimulus expectation: do ongoing oscillations reflect changes in pain perception? A registered report
Authors: Leu Chiara , Glineur Esther , Liberati Giulia
Published: June 2024

A promising stream of investigations is targeting ongoing neural oscillations and whether their modulation could be related to the perception of pain. Using an electroencephalography (EEG) frequency-tagging approach, sustained periodic thermonociceptive stimuli perceived as painful have been shown to modulate ongoing oscillations in the theta, alpha and beta bands at the frequency of stimulation. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain whether these modulations are indeed linked to pain perception. To test this relationship, we modulated pain perception using a cue-based expectation modulation paradigm and investigated whether ongoing oscillations in different frequency bands mirror the changes in stimulus perception. Forty healthy participants were instructed that a visual cue can precede either a high- or low-intensity stimulation. These cues were paired with three different levels of sustained periodic thermonociceptive stimuli (low, medium and high). Despite a strong effect of expectation on perceived stimulus intensity, this effect was not reflected in the modulation of the ongoing oscillations, suggesting a potential dissociation of pain perception and these oscillatory activities. Rather, it seems that the intensity of stimulation is the primary generator of the frequency-tagged EEG responses. Importantly, these results need to be confirmed by further investigations that could allow the detection of smaller effects than originally estimated.
Ramification of COVID-19 pandemic: Occurrence and impact of fungal Infections in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Kaur Ravinder , Rawat Deepti , William Ashish , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Kandir Neelam S.S , Sharma Akanksha
Published: June 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been prevailing for more than a year associated with increased number of opportunistic invasive fungal infections in patients who have been critically ill or immunocompromised. In this retrospective study, details of various clinical specimens received from suspected patients of fungal infections were studied. The fungal infections were present in 64% (51/79) COVID-19 positive patients and 43% (163/381) COVID-19 negative patients during the year 2021 in the second wave of COVID-19. Among COVID-19 infected patients, the fungal infections mostly observed were candidiasis (63%) followed by aspergillosis (15% ) and mucormycosis (6%). The maximum samples (17% - COVID-19 positive and 83% - COVID-19 negative patients) which had shown positive results in COVID-19 infected patients were urine followed by serum (for aspergillus galactomannan). The candida infection was seen in 27% (21/79) urine and 15%(12/79) respiratory samples (BAL, tracheal aspirate, sputum) in COVID-19 positive patients. Mucormycosis with Rhizopus arrhizus and Rhizopus homothallicus isolations in nasal samples and tissue samples was observed in 6% COVID-19 positive patients. There has been an overall increase in fungal co-infections (candidiasis, aspergillosis and mucormycosis) during the COVID-19 pandemic (64% in COVID-19 positive and 43% in COVID-19 negative patients) which is a matter of great concern. Early diagnosis is essential for the effective management of these patients.
Unearthing new learning opportunities: adapting and innovating through the ‘Antibiotics under our feet’ citizen science project in Scotland during COVID-19
Authors: Cornwell Rebecca Mary , Ross Kirsty , Gibeily Caius , Guthrie Isobel , Li Pak Hei , Seeley Laurence Taylor , Kong Yaxuan , True Ava , Barnes Arun , Nimmo Emma , Len Gloriya , Oprea Ioana , Lin Boyang , Sasi Aswin , Chu Vicky , Davidson Chloe , Ulasavets Daniil , Renouf-Bilanski Grace , Dmitrieva Maria , Leung Yana , Ye Ziying , Brown Sasha , Vaidya Meghna , Hynes Jenna , Mullner Catherine , Agarwal Priyansha , Johnston Paul , Thorley Charlotte , Melo Czekster Clarissa
Published: June 2024

‘Antibiotics under our feet’ is a Scottish citizen science project that aimed to raise science capital in primary school learners and their teachers through measurement of microbial diversity in urban soil samples in the search for novel antimicrobial compounds. Resistance to antibiotics is rising, posing a global threat to human health. Furthermore, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills are in crisis, jeopardising our capacity to mobilise as a society to fight antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Originally conceived as a response to the AMR and STEM emergencies, our project was hit by the unprecedented challenge of engaging with schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. We describe how we adapted our project to enable remote participation from primary schools and youth groups, utilising COVID-19 response initiatives as opportunities for multi-level co-creation of resources with learners in primary, secondary, and higher education. We produced portable kit boxes for soil sample collection with learning activities and videos linked to the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence. We also addressed glaring project specific content gaps relating to microbiology on English and Simple English Wikipedia. Our hybrid model of working extended our geographical reach and broadened inclusion. We present here the inception, implementation, digital resource outputs, and discussion of pedagogical aspects of ‘Antibiotics under our feet’. Our strategies and insights are applicable post-pandemic for educators to develop STEM skills using soil, microbes, and antibiotics as a theme.
Rare germline disorders implicate long non-coding RNAs disrupted by chromosomal structural rearrangements
Authors: Andersen Rebecca E. , Alkuraya Ibrahim F. , Ajeesh Abna , Sakamoto Tyler , Mena Elijah L. , Amr Sami S. , Romi Hila , Kenna Margaret A. , Robson Caroline D. , Wilch Ellen S. , Nalbandian Katarena , Piña-Aguilar Raul , Walsh Christopher A. , Morton Cynthia C.
Published: June 2024

In recent years, there has been increased focus on exploring the role the non-protein-coding genome plays in Mendelian disorders. One class of particular interest is long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which has recently been implicated in the regulation of diverse molecular processes. However, because lncRNAs do not encode protein, there is uncertainty regarding what constitutes a pathogenic lncRNA variant, and thus annotating such elements is challenging. The Developmental Genome Anatomy Project (DGAP) and similar projects recruit individuals with apparently balanced chromosomal abnormalities (BCAs) that disrupt or dysregulate genes in order to annotate the human genome. We hypothesized that rearrangements disrupting lncRNAs could be the underlying genetic etiology for the phenotypes of a subset of these individuals. Thus, we assessed 279 cases with BCAs and selected 191 cases with simple BCAs (breakpoints at only two genomic locations) for further analysis of lncRNA disruptions. From these, we identified 66 cases in which the chromosomal rearrangements directly disrupt lncRNAs. Strikingly, the lncRNAsMEF2C-AS1andENSG00000257522are each disrupted in two unrelated cases. Furthermore, in 30 cases, no genes of any other class aside from lncRNAs are directly disrupted, consistent with the hypothesis that lncRNA disruptions could underly the phenotypes of these individuals. To showcase the power of this genomic approach for annotating lncRNAs, here we focus on clinical reports and genetic analysis of two individuals with BCAs and additionally highlight six individuals with likely developmental etiologies due to lncRNA disruptions.
A network correspondence toolbox for quantitative evaluation of novel neuroimaging results
Authors: Kong Ru Q , Spreng R. Nathan , XUE AIHUIPING , Betzel Richard , Cohen Jessica R , Damoiseaux Jessica , De Brigard Felipe , Eickhoff Simon B , Fornito Alex , Gratton Caterina , Gordon Evan M , Holmes Avram J , Laird Angela R , Larson-Prior Linda , Nickerson Lisa D , Pinho Ana Luisa , Razi Adeel , Sadaghiani Sepideh , Shine James , Yendiki Anastasia , Yeo B.T. Thomas , Uddin Lucina Q
Published: June 2024

Decades of neuroscience research has shown that macroscale brain dynamics can be reliably decomposed into a subset of large-scale functional networks, but the specific spatial topographies of these networks and the names used to describe them can vary across studies. Such discordance has hampered interpretation and convergence of research findings across the field. To address this problem, we have developed the Network Correspondence Toolbox (NCT) to permit researchers to examine and report spatial correspondence between their novel neuroimaging results and sixteen widely used functional brain atlases, consistent with recommended reporting standards developed by the Organization for Human Brain Mapping. The atlases included in the toolbox show some topographical convergence for specific networks, such as those labeled as default or visual. Network naming varies across atlases, particularly for networks spanning frontoparietal association cortices. For this reason, quantitative comparison with multiple atlases is recommended to benchmark novel neuroimaging findings. We provide several exemplar demonstrations using the Human Connectome Project task fMRI results and UK Biobank independent component analysis maps to illustrate how researchers can use the NCT to report their own findings through quantitative evaluation against multiple published atlases. The NCT provides a convenient means for computing Dice coefficients with spin test permutations to determine the magnitude and statistical significance of correspondence among user-defined maps and existing atlas labels. The NCT also includes functionality to incorporate additional atlases in the future. The adoption of the NCT will make it easier for network neuroscience researchers to report their findings in a standardized manner, thus aiding reproducibility and facilitating comparisons between studies to produce interdisciplinary insights.
Theta-burst stimulation over primary somatosensory cortex modulates tactile acuity of tongue
Authors: Tang Ding-lan , Tommerdahl Mark , Niziolek Caroline A. , Parrell Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Background

Emerging studies in humans have established the modulatory effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over primary somatosensory cortex (S1) on somatosensory cortex activity and perception. However, to date, research in this area has primarily focused on the hand and fingers, leaving a gap in our understanding of the modulatory effects of rTMS on somatosensory perception of the orofacial system and speech articulators.

Objective

The present study aimed to examine the effects of different types of theta-burst stimulation—continuous TBS (cTBS), intermittent TBS (iTBS), or sham—over the tongue representation of left S1 on tactile acuity of the tongue.

Methods

In a repeated-measures design, fifteen volunteers participated in four separate sessions, where cTBS, iTBS, sham, or no stimulation was applied over the tongue representation of left S1. Effects of TBS were measured on both temporal and spatial perceptual acuity of tongue using a custom vibrotactile stimulator.

Results

CTBS significantly impaired spatial amplitude threshold at the time window of 16-30 minutes after stimulation, while iTBS improved it at the same time window. The effect of iTBS, however, was smaller than cTBS. In contrast, neither cTBS nor iTBS had any effect on the temporal discrimination threshold.

Conclusions

The current study establishes the validity of using TBS to modulate somatosensory perception of the orofacial system. Directly modifying somatosensation in the orofacial system has the potential to benefit clinical populations with abnormal tactile acuity, improve our understanding of the role of sensory systems in speech production, and enhance speech motor learning and rehabilitation.

Highlights

Theta-burst stimulation (TBS) can modulate somatosensation in the orofacial system

cTBS over S1 impaired spatial acuity of tongue

iTBS over S1 improved spatial acuity of tongue
Optimizing Ocular Pathology Classification with CNNs and OCT Imaging: A Systematic and Performance Review
Authors: Hauri-Rosales Walter , Pérez Oswaldo , Garcia-Roa Marlon , López-Star Ellery , Olivares-Pinto Ulises
Published: June 2024

Vision loss due to chronic-degenerative diseases is a primary cause of blindness worldwide. Deep learning architectures utilizing optical coherence tomography images have proven effective for the early diagnosis of ocular pathologies. Nevertheless, most studies have emphasized the best outcomes using optimal hyperparameter combinations and extensive data availability. This focus has eclipsed the exploration of how model learning capacity varies with different data volumes. The current study evaluates the learning capabilities of efficient deep-learning classification models across various data amounts, aiming to determine the necessary data portion for effective clinical trial classifications of ocular pathologies. A comprehensive review was conducted, which included 295 papers that employed OCT images to classify one or more of the following retinal pathologies: Drusen, Diabetic Macular Edema, and Choroidal Neovascularization. Performance metrics and dataset details were extracted from these studies. Four Convolutional Neural Networks were selected and trained using three strategies: initializing with random weights, fine-tuning, and retraining only the classification layers. The resultant performance was compared based on training size and strategy to identify the optimal combination of model size, dataset size, and training approach. The findings revealed that, among the models trained with various strategies and data volumes, three achieved 99.9% accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Two of these models were fine-tuned, and one used random weight initialization. Remarkably, two models reached 99% accuracy using only 10% of the original training dataset. Additionally, a model that was less than 10% the size of the others achieved 98.7% accuracy and an F1 score on the test set while requiring 100 times less computing time. This study is the first to assess the impact of training data size and model complexity on performance metrics across three scenarios: random weights initialization, fine-tuning, and retraining classification layers only, specifically utilizing optical coherence tomography images.
UROMODULIN AND RISK OF UPPER URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS: A MENDELIAN RANDOMIZATION STUDY
Authors: Liyanarachi Kristin Vardheim , Flatby Helene , Hallan Stein , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Damås Jan Kristian , Rogne Tormod
Published: June 2024

Background

Observational studies have suggested that uromodulin, produced by the kidneys, may reduce the risk of upper urinary tract infections, but are limited by potential confounding. To address this concern, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization study to explore this association.

Methods

We identified uncorrelated (r2< 0.01) single nucleotide polymorphisms strongly associated (p<5 × 10−6) with urinary and serum uromodulin from two genome-wide association studies. Both studies accounted for kidney function. Genetic associations for the risk of upper urinary tract infections were extracted from an independent genome-wide association study. Inverse-variance weighted and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

The study included 29,315 and 13,956 participants with measured urinary and serum uromodulin, respectively, and 3,873 and 512,608 subjects with and without upper urinary tract infections. A one standard deviation increase in genetically predicted urinary uromodulin was associated with an odds ratio for upper urinary tract infections of 0.80 (95% confidence interval 0.67 to 0.95, p = 0.01). For serum uromodulin, a one standard deviation increase was associated with an odds ratio of 0.95 (95% confidence interval 0.89 to 1.01, p = 0.12). The results were consistent across sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

In this two-sample mendelian randomization study we found that increased levels of genetically predicted urinary uromodulin were associated with a reduced risk of upper urinary tract infections. A similar trend was observed for serum uromodulin. Our findings align with results from traditional observational studies which together support that uromodulin may have a protective role against upper urinary tract infections
Evaluating the Performance of ChatGPT-4o Vision Capabilities on Image-Based USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 Examination Questions
Authors: Gajjar Avi A. , Valluri Harshitha , Prabhala Tarun , Custozzo Amanda , Boulos Alan S , Dalfino John C. , Field Nicholas C. , Paul Alexandra R.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) has significant potential in medicine, especially in diagnostics and education. ChatGPT has achieved levels comparable to medical students on text-based USMLE questions, yet there’s a gap in its evaluation on image-based questions.

Methods

This study evaluated ChatGPT-4’s performance on image-based questions from USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3. A total of 376 questions, including 54 image-based, were tested using an image-captioning system to generate descriptions for the images.

Results

The overall performance of ChatGPT-4 on USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 was evaluated using 376 questions, including 54 with images. The accuracy was 85.7% for Step 1, 92.5% for Step 2, and 86.9% for Step 3. For image-based questions, the accuracy was 70.8% for Step 1, 92.9% for Step 2, and 62.5% for Step 3. In contrast, text-based questions showed higher accuracy: 89.5% for Step 1, 92.5% for Step 2, and 90.1% for Step 3. Performance dropped significantly for difficult image-based questions in Steps 1 and 3 (p=0.0196 and p=0.0020 respectively), but not in Step 2 (p=0.9574). Despite these challenges, the AI’s accuracy on image-based questions exceeded the passing rate for all three exams.

Conclusions

ChatGPT-4 can handle image-based USMLE questions above the passing rate, showing promise for its use in medical education and diagnostics. Further development is needed to improve its direct image processing capabilities and overall performance.
Spontaneous cerebrovascular reactivity at rest in older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment and memory deficits
Authors: Engstrom Allison C , Alitin John Paul , Kapoor Arunima , Dutt Shubir , Lohman Trevor , Sible Isabel J , Marshall Anisa J , Shenasa Fatemah , Gaubert Aimée , Ferrer Farrah , Nguyen Amy , Bradford David Robert , Rodgers Kathleen , Sordo Lorena , Head Elizabeth , Shao Xingfeng , Wang Danny JJ , Nation Daniel A
Published: June 2024

Background

Older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) exhibit deficits in cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), suggesting CVR is a biomarker for vascular contributions to MCI. This study examined if spontaneous CVR is associated with MCI and memory impairment.

Methods

161 older adults free of dementia or major neurological/psychiatric disorders were recruited. Participants underwent clinical interviews, cognitive testing, venipuncture for Alzheimer’s biomarkers, and brain MRI. Spontaneous CVR was quantified during 5 minutes of rest.

Results

Whole brain CVR was negatively associated with age, but not MCI. Lower CVR in the parahippocampal gyrus (PHG) was found in participants with MCI and was linked to worse memory performance on memory tests. Results remained significant after adjusting for Alzheimer’s biomarkers and vascular risk factors.

Conclusion

Spontaneous CVR deficits in the PHG are observed in older adults with MCI and memory impairment, indicating medial temporal microvascular dysfunction’s role in cognitive decline.
HIV self-testing and its associated factors among young university students: A cross-sectional study in a Public University in Uganda
Authors: Nambi Winnie , Nabirye Rose Chalo , Nakato Gloria , Aleni Mary , Epuitai Joshua
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Uptake of HIV testing services is sub-optimal among young adults. HIV self-testing offers opportunities to improve uptake of HIV testing services among young adults. The study was conducted to determine preferences of HIV testing, uptake of HIV self-testing and the factors associated with HIV-self testing among young adults.

Methods

The study was a descriptive cross-sectional design. A self-administered questionnaire for data collection. We interviewed 384 university students to collect information about HIV testing and their preferences. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with HIV self-testing. The study obtained ethical clearance from the Mbale Regional Referral Hospital Research and Ethics Committee.

Results

The median age of the participants was 24 (interquartile range: 22-28). Uptake of HIV self-testing was 55% among young adults. Similarly, 56% of the young adults preferred HIV self-testing over facility-based HIV testing in the future. Privacy (46%), confidentiality (7%) and convenience (32%) were the most common reasons given for preferring HIV self-testing. Participants who preferred to test in the healthcare facility cited preference for counselling services (21%) and the perception that the HIV test results from the healthcare facility were more accurate (37%), credible and trustworthy (21%). HIV self-testing was significantly associated with several factors: increasing age (95% CI: 0.89 (0.80-0.98)), fourth year of study (95%CI: 2.90 (1.01-8.31), students of anaesthesia program (95% CI: 0.40 (0.17-0.95), Muslim religion (95% CI: 0. 07 (0.01-0.41), consistent use of condoms (95% CI: 0.36 (0.15-0.88), and having multiple sexual partners (95% CI: 3.22 (1.49-7.00).

Conclusion

Young adults preferred HIV self-testing over provider-based testing in the health facility. This preference was related to privacy, confidentiality and convenience. Addressing concerns about accuracy of test results in HIV self-testing and need for counselling services may improve uptake of HIV self-testing among young adults.
Validation of optimised methods for avian influenza virus isolation in specific pathogen-free embryonated fowls’ eggs
Authors: Reid Scott M. , Coward Vivien J. , James Joe , Hansen Rowena D. E. , Birch Colin , Bakrania Mayur , Brookes Sharon M. , Brown Ian H. , Banyard Ashley C.
Published: June 2024

The internationally recognised method for diagnosis of avian influenza (AI) is virus isolation (VI) in specific pathogen-free embryonated fowls’ eggs (EFEs). In Great Britain (GB), AI virus isolation currently involves two passages in EFEs; the first typically of two days duration followed by a second lasting up to four days meaning that premises may remain under restriction for up to six days. Shorter time lengths for AIV isolation were investigated to reduce the time that businesses remain under official restrictions to safely negate AI infection, whilst maintaining test sensitivity. Both experimental inoculations of EFEs and analyses of VI attempts from high pathogenicity (HP) AI disease incursions in GB since 2016 demonstrated that HP viruses were isolated during first passage while for low pathogenicity AI outbreaks, the second passage could be reduced to two days. Power analysis showed that the benefit of reducing the number of days outweighed the risk of missing a positive isolate. This approach will substantially reduce costs to government and industry by releasing restrictions at least two days earlier where samples are negative for viral nucleic acid. Critically, it will reduce welfare implications of housing birds under restriction and improve international standards without loss of test performance.
BMAL1 represses transposable elements independently of CLOCK in pluripotent cells
Authors: Gallardo Amador , Belmonte-Reche Efres , Marti-Marimon María , Domingo-Reinés Joan , Peris Guillermo , López-Onieva Lourdes , Fernández-Rengel Iván , Tristán-Ramos Pablo , Bellora Nicolas , Sánchez-Pozo Antonio , Estévez Antonio M , Heras Sara R , Marti-Renom Marc A. , Landeira David
Published: June 2024

Circadian oscillations of gene transcripts rely on a negative feedback loop executed by the activating BMAL1-CLOCK heterodimer and its negative regulators PER and CRY. Although circadian rhythms and CLOCK protein are mostly absent during embryogenesis, the lack of BMAL1 during prenatal development causes an early aging phenotype during adulthood, suggesting that BMAL1 carries out an unknown non-circadian function during organism development that is fundamental for healthy adult life. Here, we show that BMAL1 interacts with TRIM28 and represses transcription of totipotency-associated MERVL retrotransposons in mouse pluripotent cells. Deletion of Bmal1 leads to genome-wide upregulation of MERVLs, changes in the three-dimensional organization of the genome, and acquisition of totipotency-associated features. Overall, we demonstrate that in pluripotent cells BMAL1 is redeployed as a transcriptional repressor of transposable elements (TEs) in a CLOCK-independent way. We propose that BMAL1-TRIM28 activity during prenatal life is essential for optimal health and life span in mammals.
A low bias method for quantification of Oil Red O staining
Authors: Feldhaus Christian , Piskobulu Veysi
Published: June 2024

Oil Red O (ORO) is a well established dye for assessing the lipid content of nematodes. Previously reported methods for quantifying ORO staining rely on the difference in absorption in the red part of the spectrum wherORO appears transparent and parts of the spectrum where ORO absorbs light. However, several sources of bias and artifacts are usually not accounted for in previously described methods which makes them unsuitable to detect small differences in lipid content. Here we describe a method which relies on filter based acquisition and semi-automatic image processing including e.g. a correction for different background intensities to eliminate several sources of bias in ORO quantification.
The accounting profession in the Twilight Zone: navigating digitalisation's sided challenges through ethical pathways for decision-making
Authors: Tiron-Tudor Adriana , Rodgers Waymond , Deliu Delia
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to explore the sided challenges facing the accounting profession in an advanced digitalised future where humans and robots will collaborate in working teams.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a qualitative approach, the paper conducts a reflexive thematic analysis to identify challenges and associated socio-ethical risks of digitalisation; it then introduces an ethical decision-making model aimed at addressing these challenges.

Findings

Key professional accountants’ (PAs) sided challenges refer to autonomy, privacy, balance of power, security, human dignity, non-maleficence and justice, each of them possessing multifaceted dimensions that are interconnected dynamically to create a complex web of socio-ethical risks.

Practical implications

The ethical decision-making pathways corresponding to each detected challenges provide a useful reference and guideline for PAs in the digitalised future of the profession.

Social implications

Using an anthropocentric perspective, the research addresses the sided challenges of accounting profession’s accelerated digitalisation; it contributes to fostering accountability and legitimacy of the accounting profession which serves the public interest.

Originality/value

By innovatively intertwining ethical positions with decision-making pathways, the paper offers a potential solution to address digitalisation’s sided challenges that might interfere with practitioners’ professional judgement and identity.
Key antecedents and consequences of blockchain technology adoption in the wine industry: a multiple case study analysis
Authors: Sabbagh Parisa , Crescimanno Maria , Vrontis Demetris , Schimmenti Emanuele , Fiore Mariantonietta , Galati Antonino
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to identify the antecedents and consequences of blockchain adoption in the wine industry from the absorptive capacity perspective through a multiple case study approach.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case study approach was utilized, wherein data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and secondary sources of information from the five Italian innovative wineries.

Findings

The results show that the dynamic capabilities of wineries and the creation of strategic partnerships are common conditions for the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT). In addition, findings reveal that creating value for all supply chain stakeholders and preventing counterfeit products are the most important consequences of BCT adoption.

Research limitations/implications

This study fills a gap in the literature by investigating the drivers of BCT technology adoption under two theoretical lenses, Absorptive capacity and Dynamic capability theories, confirming the usefulness of these two theories in explaining the process of innovation adoption.

Originality/value

The originality of our research study lies in its investigation of the antecedents and consequences of BCT adoption in the wine supply chain, focusing specifically on the role of dynamic capabilities, knowledge acquisition and assimilation, strategic partnerships and open interactions with external actors in driving technological innovation and the successful implementation of BCT in the wine industry. By offering empirical data on the drivers and impacts of BCT adoption, as well as theoretical implications for technological innovation and value creation in the wine sector, our study contributes to filling gaps in the existing literature and provides practical insights for wineries and AgTechs seeking to integrate BCT into their business models.