bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of “African research and its contribution to global health research: a review and an opinion”
Authors: Ger Norah , Lugossy Anne-Marie , Petrucka Pammla
Published: November 2024

Aim

Research is key to the development of any nation, with health research being of high value to society. Research provides data that is useful for the generation and provision of knowledge needed for policy making, planning and strategic management to develop nations. Despite the African population accounting for nearly 14% of the world’s population, little published research originates from African scholars.

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to highlight the reasons for the lack of robust research by scientists from African low-and-middle-income countries and to emphasize the inequity experienced by African scientists in global health research. Possible solutions to the dearth in African global health research are equally explored.

Findings

Insufficient research has led to poor growth, development and advancements in health in Africa. A significant gap in African-led and published research, lack of mentorship, inequitable access to research funding and grant eligibility, and increased dependency on foreign organizations have contributed to the lack of sustainability and failure of African research.

Conclusion

Research is crucial for national development, especially in health. However, African researchers are underrepresented in global publications. To optimize research, local needs and African researchers must be prioritized, and research systems in African institutions must be strengthened. Additionally, the international community must respect, be transparent, and support research development in Africa. These efforts are essential for fostering a robust research environment, addressing global health challenges, and promoting sustainable development across Africa and LMICs.
Genomic epidemiology of early SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Bangladesh
Authors: Carnegie L. , McCrone J. T. , du Plessis L. , Hasan M. , Ali M.Z. , Begum R. , Hassan M.Z. , Islam S. , Rahman M.H. , Uddin A.S.M. , Sarker M.S. , Das T. , Hossain M. , Khan M. , Razu M.H. , Akram A. , Arina S. , Hoque E. , Molla M.M.A. , Nafisaa T. , Angra P. , Rambaut A. , Pullan S.T. , Osman K.L. , Hoque M.A. , Biswas P. , Flora M.S. , Raghwani J. , Fournié G. , Samad M.A. , Hill S.C.
Published: November 2024

Background

Genomic epidemiology has helped reconstruct the global and regional movement of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, there is still a lack of understanding of SARS-CoV-2 spread in some of the world’s least developed countries (LDCs).

Methods

To begin to address this disparity, we studied the transmission dynamics of the virus in Bangladesh during the country’s first COVID-19 wave by analysing case reports and whole-genome sequences from all eight divisions of the country.

Results

We detected > 50 virus introductions to the country during the period, including during a period of national lockdown. Additionally, through discrete phylogeographic analyses, we identified that geographical distance and population -density and/or -size influenced virus spatial dispersal in Bangladesh.

Conclusions

Overall, this study expands our knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 genomic epidemiology in Bangladesh, shedding light on crucial transmission characteristics within the country, while also acknowledging resemblances and differences to patterns observed in other nations.
Toxicity assessment following conventional radiation therapy and pulsed low dose rate radiation therapy: an in vivo animal study
Authors: Salem Noha Roshdy , Eldib Ahmed , El-Sayed E. M. , Mostafa Ehab , Desouky Omar S.
Published: November 2024

Background

Pulsed low dose rate radiotherapy (PLDR) is a new radiation delivery method, in which the fractional dose is divided into sub-fractional doses with periodical time breaks in between. The goal of our study is to assess the toxicity on healthy tissues resulting from PLDR as compared to conventional radiotherapy (CRT) using the same physical X-ray dose.

Methods

We analyzed the weight and survival time for CRT and PLDR groups and studied the inflammatory cytokine transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β), usually released following irradiation. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted for intestinal and bone marrow tissues from rats subjected to 8 Gy whole- body irradiation using CRT and PLDR techniques. We investigated genotoxicity by performing a comet assay (CA) in splenic tissues.

Results

Our findings showed an improvement in survival time with PLDR versus CRT by 82%.The mean survival time for CRT rats’ group was 6.3 days, while it was 35.9 days for PLDR group.The weight of CRT group decreased gradually by 3.7%, while weight of PLDR group increased gradually by 2.4%.CRT resulted in more cellular atrophy in bone marrow and intestinal tissues than in PLDR treatments as shown by hematoxylin and eosin staining analysis. In addition, the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) expression in bone marrow and intestinal tissues of CRT was higher than those expressed in tissues from PLDR as demonstrated by the Immuno reactive score (IRS). It was10(0.53) and 9.8(0.55) for BM and intestinal tissues, respectively from CRT group and 5.8(0.63) for PLDR for both tissues. The measured CA parameters were larger with CRT compared to PLDR, where the Tail Length (TL), Tail DNA % (TD%) and Tail Moment (TM) measurements were 25.4(3.4), 56.5(7.6) % and 20.5(3.5) for CRT, 7.3(1.9), 30.0(7.2) % and 5.7(1.8) for PLDR, with P value 0.000064, 0.0004 and 0.00017, respectively.

Conclusion

This study indicates that PLDR can reduce the toxicity on normal tissues compared to CRT.
Mental health needs in war-affected refugee children: barriers, gaps, and strategies for effective care
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen
Published: November 2024

War-affected refugee children often experience significant disruptions to their mental health due to exposure to traumatic events, displacement, and the challenges of resettlement. This comprehensive overview examines the substantial mental health needs of these children and identifies the barriers and gaps that hinder effective mental health care delivery. The study highlights the critical aspects of mental health requirements, including the impact of trauma and displacement, and explores the systemic obstacles that prevent adequate access to care. By addressing these barriers and gaps, the paper aims to inform strategies for improving mental health services for war-affected refugee children, ultimately contributing to better mental health outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Anorexia nervosa-specific home treatment in children and adolescents and their families (the HoT study): a study protocol of a randomized, controlled, multicenter, open-label, parallel group superiority trial
Authors: Dahmen Brigitte , Zielinski-Gussen Ingar , Föcker Manuel , Hahn Freia , Legenbauer Tanja , Thiemann Ulf , Dempfle Astrid , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate
Published: November 2024

Background

New treatment approaches are urgently needed to improve the prognosis of children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN). Recently, the feasibility of multidisciplinary home treatment that strongly involves the patients’ parents/caregivers has been investigated. However, no RCT has yet been performed to test the efficacy and safety of this approach compared to standard treatment approaches, such as inpatient treatment.

Methods

In this multicenter randomized-controlled trial, home treatment for children and adolescents with AN aged 12 to 18 years is established at 5 major treatment centers for AN in Germany. Approximately 240 patients who are admitted to the hospital for AN will be included in the trial. After a short inpatient somatic stabilization phase (5–8 weeks), patients are randomized to receive either treatment as usual (TAU), in the form of continued inpatient or day patient treatment, or the newly developed home treatment (HoT) (n = 82/arm, n = 164 in total). There are three assessments throughout treatment (admission, randomization, and discharge), as well as follow-up assessments at 9 and 12 months after admission. The BMI at 12 months after admission (primary outcome) is compared between groups (adjusted for premorbid BMI and admission BMI); secondary outcomes include eating disorder and general psychopathology, the number and duration of psychiatric rehospitalizations, quality of life, motivation for treatment and treatment satisfaction. Other secondary outcomes include the primary caregivers’ burden and skills in handling the child’s illness and direct treatment costs. Statistical analysis will be based on intention-to-treat principles, using mixed models for repeated measures. (Serious) adverse events are assessed throughout treatment. In addition, the feasibility and implementation of HoT as well as the satisfaction and workload of the members of the multidisciplinary treatment teams in both arms will be assessed.

Discussion

In the case of a positive evaluation, HoT can be considered an effective treatment method to replace or complete established treatment methods, such as IP, for treating AN in children and adolescents. The home treatment setting might shorten inpatient stays in this patient group, increase treatment satisfaction, and help to reduce the risk of rehospitalization, which is associated with a better outcome in this vulnerable patient group.

Trial registration

The trial was registered with the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS) under the ID DRKS00025925 on November 26, 2021 (prospectively registered): https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00025925.
High-throughput screening for optimizing adoptive T cell therapies
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Xu Qinglong , Gao Zhifei , Zhang Honghao , Xie Xiaoling , Li Meifang
Published: November 2024

Adoptive T cell therapy is a pivotal strategy in cancer immunotherapy, demonstrating potent clinical efficacy. However, its limited durability often results in primary resistance. High-throughput screening technologies, which include both genetic and non-genetic approaches, facilitate the optimization of adoptive T cell therapies by enabling the selection of biologically significant targets or substances from extensive libraries. In this review, we examine advancements in high-throughput screening technologies and their applications in adoptive T cell therapies. We highlight the use of genetic screening for T cells, tumor cells, and other promising combination strategies, and elucidate the role of non-genetic screening in identifying small molecules and targeted delivery systems relevant to adoptive T cell therapies, providing guidance for future research and clinical applications.
Global burden associated with rare infectious diseases of poverty in 2021: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Bao Yujia , Li Yongxuan , Zhou Yibin , Qiang Ne , Li Tianyun , Zhang Yuzheng , Chong Marc K. C. , Zhao Shi , Deng Xiaobei , Zhang Xiaoxi , Han Lefei , Ran Jinjun
Published: November 2024

Background

Rare infectious diseases of poverty (rIDPs) involve more than hundreds of tropical diseases, which dominantly affect people living in impoverished and marginalized regions and fail to be prioritized in the global health agenda. The neglect of rIDPs could impede the progress toward sustainable development. This study aimed to estimate the disease burden of rIDPs in 2021, which would be pivotal for setting intervention priorities and mobilizing resources globally.

Methods

Leveraging data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, the study reported both numbers and age-standardized rates of prevalence, mortality, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), years lived with disability, and years of life lost of rIDPs with corresponding 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) at global, regional, and national levels. The temporal trends between 1990 and 2021 were assessed by the joinpoint regression analysis. A Bayesian age-period-cohort model was used to project the disease burden for 2050.

Results

In 2021, there were 103.76 million (95% UI: 102.13, 105.44 million) global population suffered from rIDPs with an age-standardized DALY rate of 58.44 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 42.92, 77.26 per 100,000 population). From 1990 to 2021, the age-standardized DALY rates showed an average annual percentage change of − 0.16% (95% confidence interval: − 0.22, − 0.11%). Higher age-standardized DALY rates were dominated in sub-Saharan Africa (126.35 per 100,000 population, 95% UI: 91.04, 161.73 per 100,000 population), South Asia (80.80 per 100,000 population, 95% UI: 57.31, 114.10 per 100,000 population), and countries with a low socio-demographic index. There was age heterogeneity in the DALY rates of rIDPs, with the population aged under 15 years being the most predominant. Females aged 15–49 years had four-times higher age-standardized DALY rates of rIDPs than males in the same age. The projections indicated a slight reduction in the disease burden of rIDPs by 2050.

Conclusions

There has been a slight reduction in the disease burden of rIDPs over the past three decades. Given that rIDPs mainly affect populations in impoverished regions, targeted health strategies and resource allocation are in great demand for these populations to further control rIDPs and end poverty in all its forms everywhere.

Graphical Abstract
One-year impact of behavioural interventions on schistosomiasis-related knowledge, attitude and practices of primary schoolchildren in Pemba, Tanzania
Authors: Ndum Naomi C. , Trippler Lydia , Najim Sarah O. , Ali Anisa S. , Hattendorf Jan , Ame Shaali M. , Kabole Fatma , Utzinger Jürg , Ali Said M. , Knopp Stefanie
Published: November 2024

Background

Elimination of schistosomiasis as a public health problem and interruption of transmission in selected areas are goals set by the World Health Organization for 2030. Behaviour change communication (BCC), coupled with other interventions, is considered an essential measure to reduce the transmission of Schistosoma infection. Focusing on elimination, we assessed the 1-year impact of BCC interventions on schistosomiasis-related knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of schoolchildren in hotspot schools versus low-prevalence schools that did not receive the interventions.

Methods

School-based cross-sectional surveys were implemented in 16 schools on Pemba Island, Tanzania, in 2020 and 2022, respectively. The schistosomiasis-related KAP were assessed in children attending grades 3–5, using pre-tested questionnaires. Between the surveys, in 2021, children from hotspot schools were exposed to BCC interventions. The difference in mean knowledge and attitude scores, respectively, between schoolchildren from hotspot and low-prevalence schools during the survey in 2022 was determined with a linear mixed-effect model.

Results

In the five hotspot schools that received BCC interventions, 315 children participated in the survey in 2020 and 349 in 2022. There was a 21.0% increase in children with moderate knowledge and a 13.8% decrease in no knowledge; a 8.3% increase in good attitude and a 19.2% decrease in poor attitude; 3.4% and 3.2% fewer children reported to use waterbodies for washing clothes or body, respectively. In the 11 low-prevalence schools without BCC interventions, 778 children participated in 2020 and 732 in 2022. The percentage of children with poor knowledge (56.4% and 63.1%) and poor attitude (55.3% and 53.1%) remained relatively stable from 2020 to 2022, but 4.9% and 3.0% less children reported to use waterbodies for washing clothes or their body, respectively. In 2022, the difference in mean knowledge scores was 0.8 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.5−1.1] and the difference in mean attitude scores was 0.6 (95% CI: 0.4−0.7) between children in hotspot compared with low-prevalence schools.

Conclusions

After one year of implementation, the BCC interventions markedly improved the KAP of exposed children. Complemented by improved access to clean water and sanitation, BCC holds promise to contribute successfully to the achievement of schistosomiasis control and elimination targets.

Trial registration ISRCTN, ISRCTN91431493. Registered 11 February. 2020, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN91431493.

Graphical Abstract
Research on the design and image perception of cultural landscapes based on digital roaming technology
Authors: Lin Zhengsong , Yang Ziqian , Yuan Jihui
Published: November 2024

The preservation and advancement of cultural heritage continue to present significant challenges, arising from conflicting objectives, concepts, methodologies, and limited resources. Image perception not only serves as an observational tool for cultural heritage but also as a research method to uncover deeper meanings and implications. To explore the complex dynamics of cultural heritage and address the risks of its deterioration, this study employed virtual engine software (Unity 2019) to create digital landscapes for immersive exploration. An image perception evaluation framework was established through field surveys and behavioral synthesis experiments across five key areas, including ancient tree ecosystems and architectural sites. Our findings revealed that participants showed the greatest interest in the ancient tree ecological area, indicating a strong attachment to historical continuity and natural progression. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis further demonstrated that participants experienced positive emotional responses, suggesting that well-designed cultural landscapes can enhance mental well-being and uplift mood. Additionally, participants expressed a strong willingness to discuss the ancient tree eco-region, with image perception playing a crucial role in motivating information sharing and driving conservation efforts. This study introduces an innovative model—Design Practice, Immersive Experience, and Image Perception Evaluation—which offers a new perspective for the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage sites.
Scanning electron microscopy, morphometric and energy dispersive X-Ray analysis of cephalothoracic structures exploring defensive and sensory features in kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus Spence Bate, 1888)
Authors: Alsafy Mohamed A. M. , El-Gendy Samir A. A. , Abd-Elhafeez Hanan H. , Soliman Soha , Erasha Atef , Ali Safwat , Roshdy Karam , Rashwan Ahmed M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus) is a commercially important crustacean and a valuable global food source. This study employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to explore the morphology and morphometric features of the Marsupenaeus japonicus cephalothoracic structures, including antennules, antennas, scaphocerite, rostrums, and eye stalks. The primary focus was on understanding the role of each part, especially through the examination of setae, which are crucial for chemoreception and defense. Additionally, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis was utilized to identify the elemental composition of these structures.

Material and methods

The samples from the heads of fifteen Marsupenaeus japonicus were studied by gross morphology and morphometry, SEM, and EDX analysis. This study is the first to integrate both SEM and EDX techniques for a detailed analysis of these cephalothoracic structures, offering an innovative approach to understanding both morphological and elemental characteristics.

Results

Marsupenaeus japonicus exhibited two antennules and two antennae. The antenna featured four basal segments: basicerite, ischiocerite, merocerite, and carpocerite, each with distinctive articulations and setae distribution. The antennule, with three segments covered by plumose setae, displayed curved cone-shaped flagellae. The scaphocerite, resembling a paddle, showcased plumose setae, while the rostrum exhibited dorsal and ventral spines, lateral grooves, and unique setal arrangements. Setal measurements across structures revealed diverse lengths and widths, indicating functional specialization. The compound eyes were connected to an optic stalk adorned with plumose setae. EDX analysis revealed higher percentages of calcium and phosphorus in the spear-like structures of the scaphocerite, rostrum, and antenna, respectively.

Conclusion

This investigation provides a thorough examination of the intricate morphological features of the cephalothoracic region of Marsupenaeus japonicus, shedding light on its sensory and defensive capabilities. The novel application of both SEM and EDX not only deepens our insights into these structures but also lays the groundwork for future studies using this dual approach to explore crustacean morphology, with potential advantages for sustainable aquaculture and the conservation of marine ecosystems.
Modified poly-L-lysine for use as a clearing agent in pretargeted radioimmunotherapy
Authors: Timperanza Chiara , Gustafsson-Lutz Anna , Bäck Tom , Green Damian J. , Lindegren Sture , Aneheim Emma
Published: November 2024

Background

Pretargeted radioimmunotherapy of cancer has the potential to increase tumor specific uptake of activity when compared with conventional radioimmunotherapy. This is especially true in radioimmunotherapy with nuclides that exhibit a relatively short half-life. When administering antibody-based pretargeting molecules systemically, the antibodies often show a relatively slow clearance from the blood. Therefore, the use of a clearing agent is advantageous to remove unbound pretargeting molecules from the circulation, facilitating a reduction in the nonspecific radiation exposure to normal tissue while maximizing the dose delivered to the tumors.

Results

In the current study, two types of poly-L-lysine based clearing agents were produced for two different pretargeting systems: (strept)avidin/biotin and Tetrazine/Transcyclooctene. Poly-L-lysine was used as scaffold for production of clearing agents. The polymer is available in multiple sizes and can readily be modified with several functional groups, allowing different pretargeting strategies to be used. In vivo evaluation of the biotin-functionalized poly-L-lysine clearing agent, 110 repeating units, resulted in a decrease in blood concentration of the Iodine-125 labeled pretargeting agent of 50%, circa 23 h after injection, compared to controls. Two sizes, 68 and 143 repeating units, of the tetrazine-functionalized poly-L-lysine clearing agent were also evaluated, which at 23 h after injection decreased the blood concentration of the Iodine-125 labeled pretargeting agent to 58 and 38% respectively.

Conclusion

The straightforward synthesis of poly-L-lysine based clearing agents makes kit preparation possible and these agents show good potential for further evaluation, especially within the Tetrazine/Transcyclooctene pretargeting system where no liver or kidney accumulation was observed.
Impact of integrating traditional care with the modern healthcare system in reducing tuberculosis diagnosis delays in Ethiopia: a clustered randomized controlled study
Authors: Amare Desalegne , Alene Kefyalew Addis , Ambaw Fentie
Published: November 2024

Background

Diagnosis and treatment initiation delays for tuberculosis (TB) are significant challenges in resource-limited settings. These delays can result in poor treatment outcomes, disease transmission, and increased costs. This study aimed to assess the effect of integrating traditional care with modern healthcare systems on reducing TB diagnosis delay.

Methods

A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among TB patients, with 510 participants, 255 individuals were assigned to the intervention group and 255 to the control group. Training in the intervention group was provided for both traditional and modern healthcare providers in three rounds to enhance their knowledge, attitudes, and skills in TB screening and referral. A non-parametric independent sample test was used to compare the baseline and end-line data. The effect size was determined using Cohen’s d. To account for individual and cluster-level variations, a mixed-effect parametric survival model was employed. Furthermore, conditional (fixed only) and marginal (random effects) graphs were used to compare between the intervention and control groups.

Results

A total of 510 participants were included in the baseline study, with a similar number of participants included in the endline study. In the intervention group, the delay in diagnosis was 4.185 per 1000 person-days post-intervention, compared to 4.608 per 1000 person-days pre-intervention. In the control group, the delay for diagnosis was 4.759 per 1000 person-days pre-intervention and 5.031 per 1000 person-days post-intervention. The median time to diagnosis was 135 days. The non-parametric comparison showed that the intervention significantly reduced patient delays in the intervention group compared to the control group (p = 0.006), with a Cohen's d effect size of 0.246. The intervention also significantly reduced diagnosis delay in the intervention group compared to the control group (p = 0.036), with a Cohen's d effect size of 0.187. The diagnosis of TB was accelerated by 1.076 times due to the integration of traditional care with the modern healthcare system in the intervention group compared to the control group (δ: 1.076; 95% CI 1.021, 1.134).

Conclusions

The involvement of traditional care providers in TB control programs significantly reduced diagnosis delays in Ethiopia. These findings suggest the need for integrating traditional care with modern healthcare systems for the effective prevention of TB in high-burden countries.

Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05236452.
Mapping lymphatic filariasis morbidities in 24 endemic districts of Ethiopia through the health extension program
Authors: Bisrat Haileleuel , Hailekiros Fikre , Mitiku Mebratu , Mengiste Asrat , Mekonnon Merga , Seife Fikre , Oljira Birhanu , Terefe Haileyesus , Bekele Tamrat , Manyazewal Tsegahun
Published: November 2024

Background

The primary strategy for achieving the second goal of the Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) is morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP), aimed at alleviating the suffering of affected populations. A significant challenge in many LF-endemic areas is the effective registration and identification of individuals with LF, which is crucial for planning and ensuring access to MMDP services. This study seeks to map the geographical distribution of LF-related morbidities across 24 endemic districts in Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted to identify individuals affected by LF in 24 endemic districts using primary health care units (PHCUs). The study involved 946 trained health extension workers (HEWs) conducting house-to-house visits to identify and register cases of lymphedema and hydrocele, with support from 77 trained supervisors and 87 team leaders coordinating the morbidity mapping. Certified surgeons performed confirmatory evaluations through clinical assessments on a randomly selected sample of cases to validate HEW diagnoses, ensuring accurate identification of lymphedema and hydrocele. Statistical analysis of the data, including the severity of lymphedema and acute attacks, was conducted using STATA 17.

Results

This study involved 300,000 households with nearly 1.2 million individuals, leading to the identification of 15,527 LF cases—14,946 (96.3%) with limb lymphedema and 581 (3.7%) with hydrocele. Among those with lymphedema, 8396 (54.1%) were women. Additionally, 13,731 (88.4%) patients resided in rural areas. Of the 14,591 cases whose acute attack information was recorded, 10,710 (73.4%) reported experiencing at least one acute attack related to their lymphedema in the past 6 months, with a notable percentage of males (74.5%; n = 4981/6686). Among the 12,680 recorded cases of leg lymphedema, the percentage of acute attacks increased with severity: 64% (n = 5618) mild cases, 68% (n = 5169) moderate cases and 70% (n = 1893) severe cases.

Conclusion

This study successfully mapped the geographical distribution of LF morbidities across 24 LF-endemic districts in Ethiopia, identifying a substantial number of lymphedema and hydrocele cases, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. The findings underscore the potential of Ethiopia’s health extension program to identify affected individuals and ensure they receive necessary care. The findings inform targeted interventions and access to MMDP services, contributing to Ethiopia’s goal of eliminating LF by 2027.
Different facets of age perception in people with developmental prosopagnosia and “super-recognisers”
Authors: Attard-Johnson Janice , Dark Olivia , Murray Ebony , Bate Sarah
Published: November 2024

The interplay between facial age and facial identity is evident from several scenarios experienced in daily life, such as when recognising a face several decades after the last exposure. However, the link between age and identity processing, and how age perception abilities might diverge in individuals with different face processing abilities, has scarcely been considered. Furthermore, the approach used to test age perception ability may also influence outcome, but the effect of different paradigms on performance is not yet known. Across three studies, we compare super-recognisers (SRs), people with developmental prosopagnosia (DPs), and a group of neurotypical controls, on three age perception paradigms. There were no differences on the numeric age estimation task (i.e. providing precise age estimates for a series of faces; Study 1), and numeric age estimation task with added noise-distortion to stimuli (Study 2). However, SRs were more accurate when instructed to classify ambient faces as either over- or under- the age of 18 compared to both DPs and controls (Study 3). Thus, there may be nuanced differences in age processing which can be tapped into using separate paradigms; however, given that the difference is only with SRs it remains unclear to what extent these are linked to facial identity processing.
Infective endocarditis in an adult with undiagnosed tetralogy of Fallot: a case report of a rare presentation
Authors: Gomaa Mahmoud , Shaban Ahmed , El-Shirbiny Hassan , Elgenidy Anas
Published: November 2024

Background

Unrepaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is uncommonly diagnosed in adulthood and only 3% of patients survive to reach the age of 40 without surgical repair. If unrepaired, these patients are at risk for infective endocarditis (IE).

Case presentation

In this report, we present a case of a middle-aged, previously healthy female whose only complaint was unexplained fever. Echocardiography led to the discovery of undiagnosed TOF complicated with IE with a vegetation on the right ventricular (RV) side of the ventricular septal defect (VSD) which was appropriately managed with antibiotics.

Conclusions

In rare cases of acyanotic TOF where there is a lesser degree of right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO), patients may survive into adulthood and can be asymptomatic till becoming initially presented with complications such as infective endocarditis.
Integration of radiomics ultrasound and TIRADS in diagnosis of thyroid nodules: a narrative review
Authors: Baishya Nirupam Konwar , Baishya Kangkana
Published: November 2024

Background

The most popular technique for evaluating thyroid imaging is high-frequency ultrasonography; however, the TIRADS tool, intended to help with noninvasive risk assessment, has limitations in detecting thyroid cancerous nodules. The purpose of this article was to review the application of TIRADS in ultrasound radiomics and discuss its advantages and limitations.

Main text

A novel approach to medical picture processing called radiomics can help identify these nodules more precisely. Radiomics involves obtaining high-quality imaging for planning or diagnostic reasons, identifying a macroscopic tumor, extracting quantitative imaging features, and ranking the most informative findings according to prominence, independence, and reproducibility.

Conclusions

Radiomics combined with TIRADS has demonstrated strong potential in enhancing the accuracy of thyroid nodule malignancy predictions, though challenges such as the need for larger, diverse datasets, and thorough validation persist. Incorporating clinical data, using deep learning models, and standardized imaging protocols could improve diagnostic precision, and further research will, therefore, be essential for its implementation in routine clinical practice.
The relationship between insurance development, population, economic growth, and health expenditures in OECD countries: a panel causality analysis
Authors: Younsi Moheddine , Bechtini Marwa , Lassoued Mongi
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the relationship between insurance development, population, economic growth, and health expenditures for a panel of 31 OECD countries over the period 1995–2021. A dynamic panel data analysis based on cointegration, FMOLS, DOLS, VECM, and Granger causality tests is employed to suggest for the existence of a long-run relationship among variables. The long-run results show that insurance development, national income, and population exhibit positive impacts on health expenditures. The results reveal that insurance factor has larger income effects than substitution effects on health expenditures. Regarding the short-run causal relationship between the variables, the empirical results suggest that economic growth strengthens health expenditure growth, while insurance growth reduces it. In the short-run, insurance development has a crowding-out effect since it produces larger substitution effects than income effects. The results provide political implications that governments need to concern the short-run crowding-out effect of private insurance sections on health expenditures when making fiscal policies on public health expenditures.
Acute effects of motor imagery interventions and physical exercise on tongue strength and pain in healthy adults: a randomized, crossover trial
Authors: Isik Tayfun , Kahraman Buse O. , Kahraman Turhan
Published: November 2024

Background

Motor imagery (MI) has increasingly been used in physiotherapy. Oral rehabilitation may be a potential application area for MI. The aim of this study is to investigate the acute effects of orofacial and tongue muscle strengthening exercises in the form of physical exercise and motor imagery on pain and tongue strength in healthy adults.

Thirty asymptomatic adults were included in this trial. MI skills were evaluated using the Movement Imagery Questionnaire-Revised and the mental chronometer. The pain and strength were assessed using an algometer and a tongue pressure device. Following the baseline evaluations, three interventions: physical exercise, kinesthetic motor imagery, and visual motor imagery, were applied randomly on different days. Pain and tongue strength were re-evaluated immediately after the interventions.

Results

The physical exercise program did not significantly improve pain and tongue strength (p > 0.05). Following the kinesthetic MI training, a significant increase was detected (p = 0.016, d = 0.51) in the left masseter muscle pain threshold. Visual MI training resulted in improvements in anterior tongue strength (p = 0.002, d = 0.66) and left masseter muscle pain (p = 0.024, d = 0.40).

Conclusions

The present study suggests that different motor imagery strategies may have different effects on tongue muscle strength and pain threshold in healthy adults.
“Antimicrobial and antioxidant capacity of Dunaliella salina, Tetraselmis chuii and Isochrysis galbana and their potential use in food.” a systematic review
Authors: Carrillo Monserrath , Anchundia Miguel
Published: November 2024

The main compounds extracted from the biomass of marine microalgae have antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects, making the possibility of using these properties in the development of foods feasible. Despite the proven biological activity of microalgae, there are still challenges regarding the production and use of microalgal biomass or its derivatives in food industries that are related to high production costs, and there is little research regarding the evaluation of their safety and the search for their application in food development. Therefore, this research aimed to collect information regarding the biological activities of marine microalgae, which allows their use as a natural antimicrobial additive in food matrices and as an ingredient in the development of functional foods with antioxidant capacity. The search interval for the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines was five years. Different methods for the extraction of antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds from the marine microalgae
Dunaliella salina, Tetraselmis chuii
and
Isochrysis galbana
were compared and discussed, and the viability of their use and application in food matrices and in the food industry in general were analyzed. It was concluded that there are research gaps in the use of microalgae biomass as an extract, the identification of bioactive molecules for use in the food industry as antimicrobial agents and for the development of functional foods with antioxidant capacity.
Velocity-independent normal moveout correction based on multiscale dynamic time warping
Authors: Li Jieli , Huang Weilin , Zhang Ruixiang , Wang Faliang , Zhou Yang
Published: November 2024

Normal moveout (NMO) correction is one of the common steps of seismic data processing. Conventional NMO correction is generally based on a velocity function, but velocity analysis is considered time consuming and labor intensive. Moreover, the field seismic data observed in complex areas can have a low signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in inaccurate picked velocity parameters and poor NMO correction. Conventional NMO correction has stretching issues, most significantly in shallow and large-offset areas. To address these problems, a new multiscale dynamic time-warping (MSD) algorithm for velocity-independent stretch-free NMO correction is investigated. This algorithm has higher accuracy and stronger noise resistance, as our comparisons with other applications of dynamic time warping show. In our algorithm, the original seismic data are decomposed into multiple morphological scales (using mathematical morphology theory), and alignment errors are calculated separately at each scale, followed by further adaptive weighted summation. Accumulation and backtracking operations based on alignment errors produce time-shift sequences for automatic flattening of the gathers. The effectiveness of the presented approach is tested on synthetic and field data. The results determine that compared with traditional velocity-based NMO correction methods, our method can accurately flatten seismic gathers without the NMO stretch and is robust to strong noise.
Time-lapse 4D full-waveform inversion for ocean-bottom cable seismic data with seawater velocity changes
Authors: Fu Xin , Liu He , Innanen Kristopher A. , Cao Danping
Published: November 2024

Time-lapse 4D full-waveform inversion (FWI) is a valuable technology for high-resolution imaging of reservoir changes caused by hydrocarbon production and [Formula: see text] storage. However, it still faces challenges in dealing with nonrepeatability issues due to changes in seawater or near-surface velocity between baseline and monitor surveys. Despite recent advances, the ability of 4D FWI to address this problem has rarely been demonstrated. We investigate the effectiveness of current 4D FWI strategies, such as the parallel, double-difference, sequential, and common-model strategies (CMS), in resolving nonrepeatability issues for 4D ocean-bottom cable (OBC) seismic data. In addition, a three-stage 4D FWI strategy is developed for 4D OBC seismic data, involving the estimation of seawater velocities in the baseline and monitor models, obtaining a good common starting model, and a final convergence to obtain subsurface 4D changes. The synthetic data tests conducted with varying levels of seawater velocity changes indicate that among the investigated strategies, the CMS performs the best. However, the proposed three-stage strategy surpasses it, emphasizing the importance of accurately estimating seawater velocities for both baseline and monitor inversions in 4D FWI of OBC data.
Semiautomated analysis of faults with meter-scale displacements and networks of planar features using high-resolution 3D seismic data to investigate gas leakage at the Vestnesa Ridge, Eastern Fram Strait
Authors: Cooke Frances , Plaza-Faverola Andreia , Bünz Stefan , de Groot Paul , Peacock David C. P.
Published: November 2024

We develop a semiautomated method for extracting faults and other planar features from two high-resolution (HR) seismic volumes in the eastern Fram Strait. We assess seismic data quality and resolution prior to structural interpretation to determine the appropriate processing workflow. This workflow, designed for HR data sets, identifies meter-scale (>3–4 m) faults and other planar features, picked up by subtle changes in the curvature and discontinuities of seismic reflections, to investigate their relationship with fluid migration in the shallow subsurface. Although evidence exists for Holocene (approximately <8 ka) fault-associated gas seepage, structures in both volumes are presently sealing. We assess structures based on those that have measurable throw (faults) and those that do not (planar features). Structures lacking measurable throw are significant because they appear to represent fluid flow pathways. This technique enhances the analysis of the geometries of the mapped structures, facilitating the interpretation of meter-scale fault throws and the orientations of planar features. We provide insights into the evolution of structures previously linked to episodes of fluid migration and gas leakage at the Vestnesa Ridge. We infer zones of dilation (i.e., opening) at locations where faults or networks of planar features interact and investigate how these structures influence localized uplift and shallowing of the interface between free gas and gas hydrate (i.e., the bottom-simulating reflection).
Geochemical characteristics of lacustrine source rocks and oil-source correlation of the Yanchang Formation in the Zizhou area, Ordos Basin
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Lu Jungang , Mei Yan , Guo Hongqiang , Jian Yao , Xiao Zhenglu , Jiang Qijun
Published: November 2024

The Zizhou area on the northeastern margin of the Ordos Basin has achieved major breakthroughs through continuous exploration over the years, demonstrating high potential for hydrocarbon exploration. However, due to the underdevelopment of source rocks, the origin of crude oil in the Chang 6 and Chang 4 + 5 Members remains unclear, which significantly hinders further hydrocarbon exploration. In this study, we use Rock-Eval pyrolysis, kerogen maceral analysis, quantitative gas chromatography (GC) of saturated hydrocarbons, and GC-mass spectrometry of saturated and aromatic hydrocarbons to determine the geochemical characteristics of source rocks and oils from different sedimentary environments. In addition, we select effective biomarker parameters to identify the source of oil in the Chang 6 and Chang 4 + 5 Members in the Zizhou area. The results indicate that the Chang 7 Member source rocks have organic matter abundances ranging from good to excellent, with types classified as type I-II1, and are in a mature stage. Source rocks from the semideep to deep lacustrine facies exhibit a clear predominance of low-carbon number hydrocarbons, a higher proportion of short-chain n-alkanes, relatively lower C24 tetracyclic terpane/C26 tricyclic terpane (C24TeT/C26TT) and C30 hopane/C30 diahopane (C30H/C30DiaH) ratios, and similar abundances of C27 and C29 steranes. In contrast, deltaic facies source rocks, which developed in suboxic to oxic environments, display opposite characteristics. The reservoir extracts from the Zizhou area indicate a high degree of similarity to the deltaic facies source rocks. Moreover, the subtle geochemical differences between the reservoir extracts and their potential source rocks are mainly attributed to geochromatographic effect during hydrocarbon migration and differences in preservation conditions. These findings provide new insights into the dynamics of hydrocarbon migration and accumulation in the northeastern margin of the Ordos Basin and further reinforce the reliability of using biomarker techniques to determine the relationship between crude oil and its source.
Factors associated with mental health outcomes in a Muslim community following the Christchurch terrorist attack
Authors: Bell Caroline , Sulaiman-Hill Ruqayya , Tanveer Sandila , Porter Richard , Dean Shaystah , Schluter Philip J. , Beaglehole Ben , Boden Joseph M.
Published: November 2024

Background

On 15 March 2019, a white supremacist terrorist attacked two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Fifty-one people were killed and another 40 sustained non-fatal gunshot injuries.

Aims

To examine the mental health of the Muslim community, and individual and exposure-related factors associated with mental health outcomes.

Method

This is the baseline analysis of a longitudinal study of adults from the Muslim community interviewed 11–32 months after the shootings. It included a diagnostic interview (MINI), measures of sociodemographic factors, prior mental health, prior traumatic events, exposure in the attacks, discrimination, life stressors, social support and religious coping. Logistic regression models examined associations with mental health outcomes.

Results

The sample comprised 189 participants (mean age 41 (s.d. = 13); 60% female), and included: bereaved, 17% (n = 32); injured survivors 12% (n = 22); non-injured survivors, 19% (n = 36); family members of survivors, 35% (n = 67); and community members without the above exposures, 39% (n = 74). Overall, 61% had at least one mental disorder since the attacks. Those bereaved (P < 0.01, odds ratio 4.28, 95% CI 1.75–10.49) and survivors, whether injured (P < 0.001, odds ratio 18.08, 95% CI 4.70–69.60) or not (P < 0.01, odds ratio 5.26, 95% CI 1.99–13.89), had greater odds of post-traumatic stress disorder. Those bereaved (P < 0.001, odds ratio 5.79, 95% CI 2.49–13.46) or injured (P = 0.04, odds ratio 4.43, 95% CI 1.07–18.28) had greater odds of depression.

Conclusions

Despite unique features of this attack on a Muslim population, findings accord with previous studies. They suggest generalisability of psychopathology after terror attacks, and that being bereaved or directly experiencing such events is associated with adverse mental health outcomes.

Trial registration number

The study is registered on the Australian NZ Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12620000909921).
Skyrmion soliton motion on periodic substrates by atomistic and particle-based simulations
Authors: Souza J. C. B. , Vizarim N. P , Reichhardt C. J. O. , Reichhardt C. , Venegas P. A.
Published: November 2024

We compare the dynamical behavior of magnetic skyrmions interacting with square and triangular defect arrays just above commensuration using both atomistic and particle-based models. Under applied drives, the initial motion is a kink traveling through the pinned skyrmion lattice. For the square defect array, both models agree well and show a regime in which the soliton motion is locked along 45°. The atomistic model also produces locking of a soliton along 30°, which is absent in the particle-based model. For the triangular defect array, the atomistic model exhibits 30° soliton motion over a wide region of external current values. In contrast, the particle-based model gives 45° soliton motion over a small range of external driving force values. The difference arises because the nondeforming particle model facilitates meandering skyrmion orbits while the deformable atomistic model enables stronger skyrmion-skyrmion interactions that reduce the meandering. Our results indicate that soliton motion through pinned skyrmion lattices on a periodic substrate is a robust effect.