bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass Spectrometry Proteomics Characterization of Plasma Biomarkers for Colorectal Cancer Associated With Inflammation
Authors: Urbiola-Salvador Víctor , Jabłońska Agnieszka , Miroszewska Dominika , Kamysz Weronika , Duzowska Katarzyna , Drężek-Chyła Kinga , Baber Ronny , Thieme René , Gockel Ines , Zdrenka Marek , Śrutek Ewa , Szylberg Łukasz , Jankowski Michał , Bała Dariusz , Zegarski Wojciech , Nowikiewicz Tomasz , Makarewicz Wojciech , Adamczyk Agnieszka , Ambicka Aleksandra , Przewoźnik Marcin , Harazin-Lechowska Agnieszka , Ryś Janusz , Macur Katarzyna , Czaplewska Paulina , Filipowicz Natalia , Piotrowski Arkadiusz , Dumanski Jan P , Chen Zhi
Published: June 2024

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis is determined by the disease stage with low survival rates for advanced stages. Current CRC screening programs are mainly using colonoscopy, limited by its invasiveness and high cost. Therefore, non-invasive, cost-effective, and accurate alternatives are urgently needed.

Objective and design:

This retrospective multi-center plasma proteomics study was performed to identify potential blood-based biomarkers in 36 CRC patients and 26 healthy volunteers by high-resolution mass spectrometry proteomics followed by the validation in an independent CRC cohort (60 CRC patients and 44 healthy subjects) of identified selected biomarkers.

Results:

Among the 322 identified plasma proteins, 37 were changed between CRC patients and healthy volunteers and were associated with the complement cascade, cholesterol metabolism, and SERPIN family members. Increased levels in CRC patients of the complement proteins C1QB, C4B, and C5 as well as pro-inflammatory proteins, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and serum amyloid A4, constitutive (SAA4) were revealed for first time. Importantly, increased level of C5 was verified in an independent validation CRC cohort. Increased C4B and C8A levels were correlated with cancer-associated inflammation and CRC progression, while cancer-associated inflammation was linked to the acute-phase reactant leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) and ceruloplasmin. Moreover, a 4-protein signature including C4B, C8A, apolipoprotein C2 (APO) C2, and immunoglobulin heavy constant gamma 2 was changed between early and late CRC stages.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that C5 could be a potential biomarker for CRC diagnosis. Further validation studies will aid the application of these new potential biomarkers to improve CRC diagnosis and patient care.
Soil Loss and Sediment Yield Prediction in Lake Hawassa Sub-Basin, Central Rift Valley Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebre Agegnehu Mitiku , Belete Mulugeta Dadi , Belayneh Moltot Zewdie
Published: June 2024

For effective water and land resource management in data-scarce areas, it is imperative to investigate the spatial variability of sediment yield using a rapid, reliable, and affordable approach. The current study demonstrated the use of tools and models viz. Geographic Information System (GIS), Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), and Sediment Delivery Ratio (SDR) based approach for the assessment of soil loss and sediment yield rate in Lake Hawassa Sub-basin. Input data used were soil, rainfall, digital elevation model (DEM), and land use and land cover change (LULC) maps. The result of the study showed that there was significant and widespread soil loss and sediment yield on cultivated land dominated by moderate, steep and very steep slopes with little vegetation and barren areas. An estimated mean of 16.36 t/ha/year, or 1.97 million tonnes of soil is lost annually by sheet and rill erosion across the Sub-basin. The sediment delivery ratio (SDR) at the outlet of the lake sub-basin was 0.249. Accordingly, the quantified sediment yield at the sub-basin outlet, taking into account the average-based soil loss and sediment delivery ratio, was found to be 4.07 t/ha/year. The annual siltation rate of the lake from these two forms of erosion was found to be 1.01 cm/year. Therefore, depending on the severity of the soil loss, appropriate Best Management Practices (BMP) should be applied to reduce the rate of soil loss and sediment yield to protect the lake and its ecosystem.
The Tryptophan Metabolite Indole-3-Propionic Acid Raises Kynurenic Acid Levels in the Rat Brain In Vivo
Authors: Sathyasaikumar Korrapati V , Blanco-Ayala Tonali , Zheng Yiran , Schwieler Lilly , Erhardt Sophie , Tufvesson-Alm Maximilian , Poeggeler Burkhard , Schwarcz Robert
Published: June 2024

Alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota may be causally associated with several brain diseases. Indole-3-propionic acid (IPrA) is a tryptophan-derived metabolite, which is produced by intestinal commensal microbes, rapidly enters the circulation, and crosses the blood-brain barrier. IPrA has neuroprotective properties, which have been attributed to its antioxidant and bioenergetic effects. Here, we evaluate an alternative and/or complementary mechanism, linking IPrA to kynurenic acid (KYNA), another neuroprotective tryptophan metabolite. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats received an oral dose of IPrA (200 mg/kg), and both IPrA and KYNA were measured in plasma and frontal cortex 90 minutes, 6 or 24 hours later. IPrA and KYNA levels increased after 90 minutes and 6 hours (brain IPrA: ~56- and ~7-fold; brain KYNA: ~4- and ~3-fold, respectively). In vivo microdialysis, performed in the medial prefrontal cortex and in the striatum, revealed increased KYNA levels (~2.5-fold) following the administration of IPrA (200 mg/kg, p.o), but IPrA failed to affect extracellular KYNA when applied locally. Finally, treatment with 100 or 350 mg IPrA, provided daily to the animals in the chow for a week, resulted in several-fold increases of IPrA and KYNA levels in both plasma and brain. These results suggest that exogenously supplied IPrA may provide a novel strategy to affect the function of KYNA in the mammalian brain.
‘I need you inside of me’: Gendered organizing of feminist pornography
Authors: Reiss Lea Katharina , Dahlman Sara
Published: June 2024

Pornography organizes bodies in ways that reproduce, challenge, or possibly even change norms of gender and sexuality. In this paper, we explore the gendered organization of pornography, responding to a lack of research on this issue. The study engages in rhetorical and queer listening to investigate feminist pornography, analyzing audio stories produced by an all-female sex-tech company that creates pornography for women through a female gaze. Drawing on literature on gendered organizing, the study shows how the female gaze in feminist pornography organizes bodies in sexual scripts. Furthermore, an application of the concept of happy objects illuminates the complex embodied and entangled relations between sexual subjects and objects of desire. Finally, we demonstrate how, despite a shift from a male to a female gaze, feminist pornography is still prone to the reproduction of heteronormative gender stereotypes. The paper thereby outlines potentials as well as challenges for the (re)organization of bodies in feminist pornography.
Repairing what’s not broken – Algorithm repair manual as reflexivity device
Authors: Pop Stefanija Ana , Pierson Jo
Published: June 2024

In this article, we outline an innovative participatory method for reflexive engagement with algorithmic systems and the underlying processes of datafication that accompany them. Faced with the challenges of thinking critically and reflexively about algorithmic systems, both as non-expert individuals and expert researchers, we develop and elaborate on an approach for engaging participants in thinking with, – through and – about algorithmic artifacts. In developing our approach, we start from the premise that algorithms are always broken, and we devise Repair Manuals as productive reflexivity devices that will enable for reflective and reflexive encounters with algorithmic artifacts. Borrowing from the approaches developed by Shannon Mattern and Joseph Dumit, we take algorithmic data artifacts as entry points to embark on an investigative, self-learning and sense-making journey of the inevitable entanglement between the individuals and the all-encompassing algorithmic systems. The results from our study show that this approach offers valuable opportunities and insights both for educators and for researchers, and can be used equally for empowerment and educational goals.
Migraine headache in patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection: A report of the iSCAD Registry
Authors: Wells Bryan J , Wood Malissa J , O’Duffy Anne E , Sumner Jennifer A , Chi Gerald , Grodzinsky Anna , Gornik Heather L , Kadian-Dodov Daniella , Taylor Angela , Hess Connie N , Sanghavi Monika , Henkin Stanislav , Wells Gretchen , Tam Lori , Orford James , Lindley Kathryn , Kumbhani Dharam J , Vitarello Clara , Alkhalfan Fahad , Gibson C Michael , Leon Katherine K , Naderi Sahar , Kim Esther SH
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a nonatherosclerotic cause of myocardial infarction. Migraine headache has been reported to be common among patients with SCAD, but the degree of migraine-related disability has not been quantified.

Methods:

Clinical data and headache variables were obtained from the baseline assessment of the prospective, multicenter iSCAD Registry. Migraine-related disability was quantified using the self-reported Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS). Demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and medical characteristics from data entry forms were compared between patients with and without migraine.

Results:

Of the 773 patients with available data, 46% reported previous or current migraines. Those with migraines were more likely to be women (96.9% vs 90.3%, p = 0.0003). The presence of underlying carotid fibromuscular dysplasia was associated with migraine (35% vs 27%, p = 0.0175). There was not a significant association with carotid artery dissection and migraine. Current migraine frequency was less than monthly (58%), monthly (24%), weekly (16%), and daily (3%). Triptan use was reported in 32.5% of patients, and 17.5% used daily migraine prophylactic medications. Using the MIDAS to quantify disability related to migraine, 60.2% reported little or no disability, 14.4% mild, 12.7% moderate, and 12.7% severe. The mean MIDAS score was 9.9 (mild to moderate disability). Patients with SCAD had higher rates of depression and anxiety (28.2% vs 17.7% [ p = 0.0004] and 35.3% vs 26.7% [ p = 0.0099], respectively).

Conclusions:

Migraines are common, frequent, and a source of disability in patients with SCAD. The association between female sex, anxiety, and depression may provide some insight for potential treatment modalities.
Associations of smart device apps with and without a perceived self-efficacy component in a physical activity context with BMI
Authors: Loder Alexander Karl Ferdinand , van Poppel Mireille Nicoline Maria
Published: June 2024

Smart device apps can be used to promote physical activity, decrease sedentariness, or increase self-efficacy to get active in college students, possibly reducing their obesity risk. This study assessed associations of college students’ smart device use with body mass index (BMI), expecting associations between physical activity parameters and self-efficacy with BMI, moderated by app type. In an online survey, app data of a week from student’s devices, weight, height, physical activity, and self-efficacy to get active were collected from 120 students. Apps were categorized “physical activity,” “physical activity with a self-efficacy component,” or “unrelated.” Use time of physical activity apps is not associated with BMI, while self-efficacy app time show negative and unrelated app time positive associations. Self-efficacy may be an important component in app design for obesity risk reduction of college students. Test economy was low, which is why future studies need to concentrate on better data extraction methods.
Towards Developing Reinforced Concrete Structures Digital Twins: A Multiscale Lattice Discrete Particle Model Approach
Authors: Zhu Yingbo , Fascetti Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Digital Twins (DT) provide a critical approach to connecting physical structures and corresponding virtual representations through constant observations-to-decision flows, enabling near real-time analysis and assessment of structural health. A critical component of DTs of reinforced concrete structures lies in the definition of prognostic capabilities to predict/infer the system response. This is achieved by devising efficient computational methods for the simulation of the mechanical behavior of the system. This study presents the first step in devising a Multiscale Lattice Discrete Particle Model (M-LDPM) approach to be embedded in a DT framework to allow for forward prediction of damage evolution in the structural system. In the DT framework, a modification of the M-LDPM is proposed to address well-known issues associated with linking the macroscopic mesh configuration and the corresponding representative volume elements, significantly reducing the total computational cost. The effectiveness of the proposed multiscale model is validated by comparing numerical results with the full-order solutions for plain concrete members under 3-point bending, and further investigated by comparison with experimental results on three reinforced concrete beams.
Concerns about the role of artificial intelligence in journalism, and media manipulation
Authors: Mahony Simon , Chen Qing
Published: June 2024

Artificial Intelligence is a term used frequently in academic and other writing, but do we have a clear understanding of what it means? This article starts from first principles, taking a dialectic approach, to raise questions rather than give prescriptive answers. It unpacks some specific examples of the use of AI in journalism and automated approaches to news reporting. The manipulation of media has become commonplace and of greater interest as information itself can be used as an effective weapon to sow confusion and disruption, socially as well as politically. AI depends on the training data and modelling, but the sampling and engineering is done by humans with all the potential for bias, whether intentional or not. Biased datasets and the potential for uncertainty are constant dangers; we need to understand both the data and the processes that go into the AI-driven results, and always be prepared to question everything.
The uncompromising way: Several lessons from homeless journalists
Authors: Dvořák Vojtěch
Published: June 2024

The radical role of media is about challenging norms, advocating for justice, and amplifying marginalized voices. One such group is the unhoused population. The media owe them a debt by perpetuating disempowering narratives and stereotypes about homelessness. This article examines the practices of unhoused individuals engaged in participatory community journalism and their implications for professional journalists. Based on over 3 years of participatory action and critical ethnography research in the Czech Republic and Colorado, it presents several lessons for journalists to learn from homeless journalists. The findings show that involving unhoused people in journalism can equalize inevitably unequal power relations and promote truth-seeking. The article highlights that the highest forms of media participation may not always be the most empowering, and instead, promoting dialogue through partnership is crucial. Ultimately, it calls on professional journalists to embrace the new radical role by critically examining their power and being open to sharing or giving it up for the benefit of marginalized voices.
Australian perspectives on environmental practice: A national survey with human service professionals
Authors: Boetto Heather , Bowles Wendy , Ramsay Sylvia , Shephard Monique , Cordoba Pushkar Sebastian
Published: June 2024

This article reports on research exploring the perspectives of Australian social work and human service professionals about environmental practice. An online survey consisting of quantitative and qualitative questions was conducted, recruiting 303 participants from the human services sector. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS and qualitative data analyzed thematically using NVivo.

Findings

Overall, results indicated that participants strongly supported an environmental focus in human services at personal and professional levels of practice. However, while participants expressed values supporting environmental practice, its implementation was less frequently reported. The adverse impacts of climate change were reported as strongly impacting the well-being of service users, and a general lack of support from employing organizations to facilitate environmental practice was evident. Despite a strong belief in the value of Australian First Nations knowledges, limited engagement with Australian First Nations peoples was practiced.

Applications

Implications suggest the need to examine the practical realities of environmental practice including the disconnect between values and action. Given that participants reported adverse impacts of climate change on people and communities, but faced significant challenges implementing environmental action, the need to disrupt barriers caused by the dominant neoliberal discourse is critical. Likewise, disrupting the prevailing colonialist discourse by working alongside First Nations peoples to decolonize society and the profession is essential for enacting principles of environmental sustainability.
Comparing Student Performance in Multiple Enrollments and Single Enrollments: Possible Target Groups for University Management
Authors: Loder Alexander Karl Ferdinand
Published: June 2024

Austria's university system has no tuition fees and allows students to enroll in an unlimited program number. Public university funding and students’ enrollment validity are dependent on workload per program. This study aimed to compare the workload of students in multiple programs and their status (dropout, graduation) as basis for further research. The European Credit Transfer System credits and contact hours from course appointments were the major workload measures. Outcome status and enrollment type (one vs. multiple programs) were grouping variables. The sample consisted of 58,282 students in 93,705 programs with 23,526,625 single-course appointments between 2010/11 and 2022/23. Analysis of variance models showed that workload becomes higher as more programs are finished, with graduation as the outcome. On every degree level, students in multiple programs have higher workload measures than students in one program. Both dropouts and graduates accomplish higher workloads compared to single-enrollment students. Future research can build upon this study.
All Eyes on Kansas: Voter Turnout and the 2022 Abortion Referendum
Authors: Amos Brian , Middlewood Alexandra T.
Published: June 2024

On August 2nd, 2022, Kansas held a vote to lift state constitutional protections for abortion access. The vote gained national attention, as it was the first statewide plebiscite on the subject since the U.S. Supreme Court had issued its ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which had overturned the remaining U.S. Constitutional blocks on restricting abortion that had been in place since Roe v. Wade. The turnout for the election was unprecedented for a primary in the state, and to the surprise of many, the amendment failed by a large margin in deep red Kansas. In this paper, we use both precinct-level election results and individual-level voter registration and history data to explore who was mobilized to vote in the August 2022 primary and their behavior in the November 2022 general election. We find that the primary mobilized an electorate that had more women and young people, fewer Republicans, and more first-time voters than a normal primary, but that these demographics were also more likely to then abstain in the general election. Thus, the engagement of young people, especially young women, on the abortion issue remains, but preliminary findings suggest the future of this groups’ electoral participation separate from abortion activism is unclear.
New challenges and issues for climate protection in European Criminal Law
Authors: Nakane Tomohiro
Published: June 2024

Climate protection through criminal law is the subject of growing international discussion. The Commission’s 2021 proposal on environmental criminal law and the Council of Europe’s 2023 draft Convention on environmental criminal law contain provisions on climate protection. In addition, new EU Regulations and Directives related to climate protection have been proposed and adopted in recent years. Although the role of environmental criminal law has been limited in the past, the role of environmental criminal law in European criminal law has been receiving increased attention in recent years in response to climate change and the discussion on the introduction of the crime of ecocide into the Rome Statute. This article identifies how the Commission’s proposal and the draft Convention will contribute to climate protection. It then identifies issues with these provisions and areas for future improvement for climate protection.
Patient safety of adjunct pre-operative intravenous S-ketamine for pain relief in third molar surgery – a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial
Authors: Eriksson Lars B , Gordh Torsten , Karlsten Rolf , Thor Andreas , Tegelberg Åke
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To study patient safety in third molar surgery, where two different doses of S-ketamine were administered for pain relief and compared to a placebo (saline). The primary focus was capillary oxygen saturation of the blood (SpO2) and secondarily, alterations in respiratory rate, blood pressure, pulse or adverse events.

Methods

One hundred and sixty-eight subjects were included in a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. The two subanaesthetic study drugs were low-dose S-ketamine (0.125 mg/kg) and high-dose S-ketamine (0.25 mg/kg). Every patient was sedated with midazolam prior to infusion of the investigational drug. The teeth were surgically removed according to a routine clinical procedure, under local anaesthesia.

Results

Primary end-point for the safety aspects was capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) after administration of the investigational drug was finished. A significant difference was found between the placebo and the high-dose group at that point ( p = .021), with a decrease of saturation in the high-dose group. The lowest saturation and the number of registrations of SpO2 <90% did not show any difference between groups. Oxygen supplementation was given in circa 40% of the cases with no differences between the intervention groups. No other significant differences between groups regarding saturation or respiratory rate were noted.

Conclusion

In this study, it was safe to use adjunct preoperative single-dose intravenous S-ketamine 0.25 mg/kg body weight for pain relief, in midazolam-sedated patients receiving third molar surgery. There were no serious adverse events or symptoms of overdose nor any clinically relevant effects on circulatory or respiratory parameters.
Did you hear about Clarence Thomas? Measuring public attention toward the Supreme Court
Authors: Krewson Christopher N. , Schoenherr Jessica A. , Shieh Marcy
Published: June 2024

Research shows that U.S. Supreme Court events garner media attention, but the extent of public engagement remains uncertain. We examine online engagements with Supreme Court coverage, spanning the periods before, during, and after a scandal involving Justice Clarence Thomas drew broad media attention in April 2023. Analyzing internet browsing behavior of a nationally representative sample and Google Trends data, we discovered minimal interest in the Court prior to the scandal (3% seeking information). After the scandal, attention increased by 300% and stayed high for weeks. While Democratic participants were the most likely to seek out information about the Court following the scandal, we still observe strong effects among Republican participants, too. These results highlight how extra-judicial events draw attention to the Court and lead to lasting interest in it. Furthermore, our digital trace analysis of Supreme Court information seeking offers insights for scholars studying a variety of political topics.
School Disturbance Laws: What They Are, How They Are Used, and How They Impact Students
Authors: Taylor Shanon S.
Published: June 2024

There are currently 23 states in the United States that have laws considered as some form of school disturbance law. These do not include codes or laws specifying school discipline consequences such as suspension or expulsion. They vary widely in how broadly they can be applied and how broadly they define behaviors. Students are often not aware typical student misbehavior such as refusing to work, talking back, belching, or throwing paper airplanes could result in an arrest. These laws disproportionally impact students of color and students with disabilities. This article will review the breadth of these laws in the United States, their historical development and growth, and how the implementation of these laws disproportionally impacts students of color and students with disabilities. Suggestions for policy changes are included.
Promoting education for sustainable development through the green school program to achieve SDGs: Insights from a case study of Beijing’s primary and secondary schools
Authors: Yuan Xinqun , Yu Le , Li Xiyu , Luo Jie , She Hanshi , Yang Jun , Lin Zhen , Zhao Jun , Zhao Feng , Meng Ran , Zhang Yanjie , Zhao Yuanyuan
Published: June 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Green School Program (GSP) as a tool for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Focusing on 98 primary and secondary schools in Beijing’s Xicheng District, it employs a multiple, descriptive case study approach supported by statistical analysis. The research assesses various aspects of ESD for 2030, such as policy implementation, learning environments, educator roles, youth engagement, and local initiatives. An innovative aspect of the study is the use of remote sensing technology to assess educational quality. The findings highlight effective methods for measuring ESD and provide China’s experiences and recommendations to contribute to global school-based sustainable development efforts, suggesting the importance of stakeholder collaboration in advancing SDGs. The study offers significant insights into the operational assessment of ESD in schools and contributes to global sustainable development initiatives.
Physical Activity and Neuropsychological Functioning in Older Adults
Authors: Ord Anna S. , Eldridge Adrienne H. , Netz David R. , Kuschel Shannon G. , Holland Jamie , Long Theresa , Dumas Candace , Glover Crista , Schools Morgan , Stephens Rachel , Magnante Anna T. , Sautter Scott W.
Published: June 2024

Research has identified a positive relationship between physical activity and neuropsychological functioning across the lifespan. The present study further examined the relationship between physical activity, depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning in community-dwelling older adults (ages 65–96) who completed an outpatient neuropsychological evaluation ( N = 526). Psychometrically sound and validated measures were used to assess depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) were conducted to examine differences between individuals who reported regularly engaging in physical activity and those who did not, after adjusting for demographic variables (age, education, and gender). Results indicated that physical activity was associated with better scores on measures of depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning. Effect sizes for total scores on all measures were large, but there was a sizeable range of effect sizes (from small to large) for various cognitive domains. Smallest effect sizes were observed for subtests measuring language skills and visuospatial abilities, whereas largest effect sizes were seen in processing speed and memory. Results suggest that engaging in physical activity may be a beneficial non-pharmacological intervention for older adults. These findings underscore the importance of integrating physical activity programs in community and healthcare settings to foster mental and cognitive health in older populations.
The Use of Facial Recognition in Sociological Research: A Comparison of ClarifAI and Kairos Classifications to Hand-Coded Images
Authors: Peoples Crystal E. , Knudsen Paige , Fuentes Melany
Published: June 2024

Sociologists increasingly employ machine learning (ML) to quickly sort, code, classify, and analyze data. With known racial and gender biases in ML algorithms, we urge sociologists to (re)consider the implications of the widespread use of these technologies in our research. To illustrate this point, we use two popular ML algorithms, ClarifAI and Kairos, to code a small sample of sociologists (n = 167) and their coauthors (n = 1,664) and compare their findings to the sociologists’ hand-coded race and gender information. We further explore ML-generated differences by analyzing the extent of racial homophily in these sociologists’ collaboration networks. We find significant differences across the three coding methods that would lead to very different conclusions and future research agendas. We conclude by elaborating on how sociologists might ethically consider the role of ML and its use in the discipline.
Modeling the Impact of COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies in Pennsylvania, USA
Authors: Krauland Mary G. , Roberts Mark S.
Published: June 2024

Purpose. To estimate the impact on mortality of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) implemented early in the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. We implemented an agent-based modified SEIR model of COVID-19, calibrated to match death numbers reported in Pennsylvania from January 2020 to April 2021 and including representations of NPIs implemented in Pennsylvania. To investigate the impact of these strategies, we ran the calibrated model with no interventions and with varying combinations, timings, and levels of interventions. Results. The model closely replicated death outcomes data for Pennsylvania. Without NPIs, deaths in the early months of the pandemic were estimated to be much higher (67,718 deaths compared to actual 6,969). Voluntary interventions alone were relatively ineffective at decreasing mortality. Delaying implementation of interventions led to higher deaths (∼9,000 more deaths with just a 1-week delay). School closure was insufficient as a single intervention but was an important part of a combined intervention strategy. Conclusions. NPIs were effective at reducing deaths early in the COVID-19 pandemic. Agent-based models can incorporate substantial detail on infectious disease spread and the impact of mitigations. Policy Implications. The model supports the importance and effectiveness of NPIs to decrease morbidity from respiratory pathogens. This is particularly important for emerging pathogens for which no vaccines or treatments exist, but such strategies are applicable to a variety of respiratory pathogens.

Highlights

Nonpharmaceutical interventions were used extensively during the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic, but their use has remained controversial. Agent-based modeling of the impact of these mitigation strategies early in the COVID-19 pandemic supports the effectiveness of nonpharmaceutical interventions at decreasing mortality. Since such interventions are not specific to a particular pathogen, they can be used to protect against any respiratory pathogen, known or emerging. They can be applied rapidly when conditions warrant.
“MAPPING PUBLIC SPACE MICRO-OCCUPATIONS: Drone-Driven Predictions of Spatial Behaviors in Carapungo, Quito”
Authors: Cano-Ciborro Víctor , Medina Ana , Burgueño Alejandro , González-Rodríguez Mario , Díaz Daniel , Zambrano María Rosa
Published: June 2024

This study evaluates the spatial behavior of an intermodal transportation hub in Carapungo, one of the densest neighborhoods in Quito, Ecuador. This public infrastructure is deficient and lacks adequate equipment for the people who use, occupy, and transit within and around it, as well as for the numerous activities that occur, particularly at Carapungo’s Entry Park. Traditional methods for analyzing urban dynamics and land use are typically rigid and fail to grasp the complex and nonlinear nature of public spaces, especially in informal Global South cities. However, recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, combined with aerial drone videos, have enabled the modeling and prediction of urban dynamics beyond state regulations and formal planning. In this context, we developed a model using Computer Vision Technology and the YOLOv5 algorithm, incorporating Deep Learning training. The objective is twofold: firstly, to detect people, their movement and speed; and secondly, to produce “Occupancy” and “Count & Speed” cartographies that highlight commuters’ spatial patterns. These situated cartographies provide valuable insights into urban design, mobility, and interaction within a conflicted public space’s-built environment. The generated data offer planners and policymakers quantitative spatial information to consider local practices and dynamics in urban planning, particularly in situations of informality and insufficient urban infrastructure.
Institutional drivers for integrating palliative care services in a hospital in a sub-Saharan African military hospital context
Authors: Boateng Samuel Asamoah , Okyere Joshua , Attafuah Priscilla Y. A. , Dzansi Gladys
Published: June 2024

Background:

The growing burden of life-threatening illnesses and advancements in care interventions call for the intentional integration of palliative care services into existing care systems. The absence of active, functioning palliative care services in most hospitals in Ghana is a major concern. This study explored the factors influencing the integration of palliative care services in one of such institutions.

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to explore the institutional drivers of palliative care integration in a military health facility.

Design:

Exploratory qualitative study.

Methods:

We employed a qualitative exploratory study design situated within a constructivist paradigm. A purposive sampling method was used to select and interview 11 healthcare professionals. A semistructured interview was used to conduct face-to-face, in-depth interviews with participants between April and May 2022. A thematic data analysis was done based on the Braun and Clarke analysis process with the aid of QSR NVivo-12.

Results:

The six themes that describe the institutional driving factors for integrating palliative care services were cognitive restructuring, supportive logistics and infrastructure, staffing, healthcare professional skills, institutional policies and priorities, and utilization of focal persons. It was observed that a paradigm shift in the mindset of healthcare professionals and administrators was a major driver that would determine the integration of palliative care services. A cognitive restructuring will facilitate a more aggressive integration of palliative care services because logistics, staffing, and medication access will be prioritized.

Conclusion:

Institutions have the responsibility of aligning with the WHO policy on palliative care service access and must invest in training, staffing, prioritizing palliative care needs and policies, procurement of essential drugs, and the provision of logistics and supportive infrastructure to scale up the implementation of palliative care services.
Rotator Cuff Repair: The Compression SpeedBridge Technique
Authors: Marcaccio Stephen , Godshaw Brian , Arner Justin , Bradley James
Published: June 2024

Background:

While rotator cuff repair has generally produced good to excellent outcomes, re-tear rates remain variable, with rates ranging from 20% to 50%. The ideal rotator cuff repair includes 3 main components: restoration of the humeral footprint contact area, appropriate compression of the tendon to the humeral footprint, and minimal motion at the bone-tendon interface until bone-tendon healing is completed. This video takes a well-established knotless double-row technique for rotator cuff repair and augments it with a modification to promote additional compression of the medial row tendon to the humeral footprint.

Indications:

This compression SpeedBridge technique is indicated for repair of T-type rotator cuff tears involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons in patients that have failed conservative management, including physical therapy, activity modification, and corticosteroid injections. This technique can also be applied to U-shaped or L-shaped tears by removing the initial step, which involves side-to-side repair of the “T” portion of the T-type tear. Of note, findings such as advanced muscle atrophy (Goutalier III/IV) and advanced glenohumeral arthritis are concerning for irreparable tears and may be contraindications for surgical repair.

Technique Description:

With the patient in the lateral decubitus position, a diagnostic arthroscopy is performed, the rotator cuff tear is debrided, and the footprint prepared. Two side-to-side stitches are placed to repair the “T” portion of the tear. The medial row anchors are then sequentially placed, and the pre-loaded sutures are passed through the tendon in 4 sequential locations in specific fashion. After placement of looped sutures in the anterior and posterior rotator cables, the passed sutures are then incorporated into the lateral row anchors. The medial row compression is provided by shuttling previously placed compression stitches through the knotless mechanism in the medial row anchors and terminally tensioned.

Results:

This technique provides additional medial row compression to an already-established knotless double-row rotator cuff repair technique to facilitate improved bone-tendon healing and construct strength.

Discussion/Conclusion:

The compression SpeedBridge technique is a unique method to apply additional medial row compression to a double-row rotator cuff repair.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Murine models of erythroid 5ALA synthesis disorders and their conditional synthetic lethal dependency on pyridoxine
Authors: Ducamp Sarah , Sendamarai Anoop K. , Campagna Dean R. , Chin Desmond Wai Loon , Fujiwara Yuko , Schmidt Paul J. , Fleming Mark D.
Published: June 2024

X-linked sideroblastic anemia (XLSA) and X-linked protoporphyria (XLPP) are uncommon diseases caused by loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations, respectively, in the erythroid form of 5-aminolevulinic acid synthetase (ALAS), ALAS2, which encodes the first enzyme in heme biosynthesis. A related congenital sideroblastic anemia (CSA) is due to mutations in SLC25A38 (solute carrier family 25 member A38), which supplies mitochondrial glycine for ALAS2 (SLC25A38–CSA). The lack of viable animal models has limited the studies on pathophysiology and development of therapies for these conditions. Here, using CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing technology, we have generated knockin mouse models that recapitulate the main features of XLSA and XLPP; and using conventional conditional gene targeting in embryonic stem cells, we also developed a faithful model of the SLC25A38-CSA. In addition to examining the phenotypes and natural history of each disease, we determine the effect of restriction or supplementation of dietary pyridoxine (vitamin B6), the essential cofactor of ALAS2, on the anemia and porphyria. In addition to the well-documented response of XLSA mutations to pyridoxine supplementation, we also demonstrate the relative insensitivity of the XLPP/EPP protoporphyrias, severe sensitivity of the XLSA models, and an extreme hypersensitivity of the SLC25A38-CSA model to pyridoxine deficiency, a phenotype that is not shared with another mouse hereditary anemia model, Hbbth3/+ β-thalassemia intermedia. Thus, in addition to generating animal models useful for examining the pathophysiology and treatment of these diseases, we have uncovered an unsuspected conditional synthetic lethality between the heme synthesis–related CSAs and pyridoxine deficiency. These findings have the potential to inform novel therapeutic paradigms for the treatment of these diseases.
Impact of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor therapy on lung clearance index and magnetic resonance imaging in children with cystic fibrosis and one or twoF508delalleles
Authors: Stahl Mirjam , Dohna Martha , Graeber Simon Y. , Sommerburg Olaf , Renz Diane M. , Pallenberg Sophia T. , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Schütz Katharina , Hansen Gesine , Doellinger Felix , Steinke Eva , Thee Stephanie , Röhmel Jobst , Barth Sandra , Rückes-Nilges Claudia , Berges Julian , Hämmerling Susanne , Wielpütz Mark O. , Naehrlich Lutz , Vogel-Claussen Jens , Tümmler Burkhard , Mall Marcus A. , Dittrich Anna-Maria
Published: June 2024

Background

We recently demonstrated that elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) improves the lung clearance index (LCI) and abnormalities in lung morphology detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in adolescent and adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). However, real-world data on the effect of ETI on these sensitive outcomes of lung structure and function in school-age children with CF have not been reported. The aim of this study was therefore to examine the effect of ETI on the LCI and the lung MRI score in children aged 6–11 years with CF and one or twoF508delalleles.

Methods

This prospective, observational, multicentre, post-approval study assessed the longitudinal LCI up to 12 months and the lung MRI score before and 3 months after initiation of ETI.

Results

A total of 107 children with CF including 40 heterozygous forF508deland a minimal function mutation (F/MF) and 67 homozygous forF508del(F/F) were enrolled in this study. Treatment with ETI improved the median (interquartile range (IQR)) LCI in F/MF (−1.0 (−2.0– −0.1); p<0.01) and F/F children (−0.8 (−1.9– −0.2); p<0.001) from 3 months onwards. Further, ETI improved the median (IQR) MRI global score in F/MF (−4.0 (−9.0–0.0); p<0.01) and F/F children (−3.5 (−7.3– −0.8); p<0.001).

Conclusions

ETI improves early abnormalities in lung ventilation and morphology in school-age children with CF and at least oneF508delallele in a real-world setting. Our results support early initiation of ETI to reduce or even prevent lung disease progression in school-age children with CF.
Global herpes zoster burden in adults with asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mortimer Kevin J. , Cruz Alvaro A. , Sepúlveda-Pachón Ingrid T. , Jorga Anamaria , Vroling Hilde , Williams Charles
Published: June 2024

Background

Asthma is a common respiratory disease, which may be associated with an increased risk of herpes zoster (HZ), often a debilitating disease associated with severe pain. This is the first systematic review with the objective of summarising evidence on HZ burden in adults with asthma.

Methods

A global systematic literature review and meta-analysis was conducted (MEDLINE and Embase, 2003–2024) on HZ burden (incidence, risk and complications) in adults (≥18 years) with asthma.

Results

There were 19 studies included on HZ outcomes in adults with asthma. Pooled HZ incidence per 1000 person-years was 5.71 (95% CI 4.68–6.96) in adults aged ≥18 years (4.20 (95% CI 3.09–5.70) in those aged <60 yearsversus10.33 (95% CI 9.17–11.64) in those aged ≥60 years). The pooled rate ratio for developing HZ was 1.23 (95% CI 1.11–1.35) in those aged ≥18 years and 1.36 (95% CI 1.15–1.61) in those aged ≥50 years. The risk of HZ was higher in people with asthma using systemic corticosteroids, long-acting β-agonists plus inhaled corticosteroids and “add-on therapy”. Asthma was also associated with an increased risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.37) and HZ ophthalmicus (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.2). Differences in study design, setting, case definitions and follow-up durations led to heterogeneity.

Conclusions

This systematic literature review and meta-analysis found that adults with asthma have an increased risk of HZ, with higher risks in older age groups and in those on certain treatments, such as oral corticosteroids. HZ vaccines are available for adults, including those with comorbidities such as asthma, and can be considered as part of integrated respiratory care.
Epigenomic partitioning of a polygenic risk score for asthma reveals distinct genetically driven disease pathways
Authors: Stikker Bernard , Trap Lianne , Sedaghati-Khayat Bahar , de Bruijn Marjolein J.W. , van Ijcken Wilfred F.J. , de Roos Emmely , Ikram Arfan , Hendriks Rudi W. , Brusselle Guy , van Rooij Jeroen , Stadhouders Ralph
Published: June 2024

Background

Individual differences in susceptibility to developing asthma, a heterogeneous chronic inflammatory lung disease, are poorly understood. Whether genetics can predict asthma risk and how genetic variants modulate the complex pathophysiology of asthma are still debated.

Aim

To build polygenic risk scores for asthma risk prediction and epigenomically link predictive genetic variants to pathophysiological mechanisms.

Methods

Restricted polygenic risk scores were constructed using single nucleotide variants derived from genome-wide association studies and validated using data generated in the Rotterdam Study, a Dutch prospective cohort of 14 926 individuals. Outcomes used were asthma, childhood-onset asthma, adulthood-onset asthma, eosinophilic asthma and asthma exacerbations. Genome-wide chromatin analysis data from 19 disease-relevant cell types were used for epigenomic polygenic risk score partitioning.

Results

The polygenic risk scores obtained predicted asthma and related outcomes, with the strongest associations observed for childhood-onset asthma (2.55 odds ratios per polygenic risk score standard deviation, area under the curve of 0.760). Polygenic risk scores allowed for the classification of individuals into high-risk and low-risk groups. Polygenic risk score partitioning using epigenomic profiles identified five clusters of variants within putative gene regulatory regions linked to specific asthma-relevant cells, genes and biological pathways.

Conclusions

Polygenic risk scores were associated with asthma(-related traits) in a Dutch prospective cohort, with substantially higher predictive power observed for childhood-onset than adult-onset asthma. Importantly, polygenic risk score variants could be epigenomically partitioned into clusters of regulatory variants with different pathophysiological association patterns and effect estimates, which likely represent distinct genetically driven disease pathways. Our findings have potential implications for personalised risk mitigation and treatment strategies.