bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upper Limb in Cerebral Palsy
Authors:   Department of Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Bhardwaj Praveen , Varadharajan Vigneswaran ,   Department of Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Venthan S Mukil ,   Department of Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Sabapath S Raja ,   Department of Plastic, Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: February 2025

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex neuromuscular disorder characterized by impaired movement and coordination, often resulting in significant gait abnormalities. The spectrum of motor function impairment varies greatly among individuals with CP, influenced by muscle control issues and specific types of cerebral palsy, including spasticity and ataxia. Gait analysis, comprising both observational and instrumented techniques, is essential for assessing gait patterns and identifying abnormalities. While observational gait analysis provides qualitative insights, instrumented gait analysis offers a detailed and objective assessment through motion capture technology, allowing for comprehensive evaluation of joint angles(Kinematics) and forces(Kinetics).
Understanding gait patterns is crucial for making informed clinical decisions regarding therapeutic interventions such as surgery and orthotic management. Literature has demonstrated that gait analysis significantly improves surgical recommendations and outcomes, highlighting the importance of incorporating detailed gait data into treatment planning. However, limitations such as variability in data accuracy, the complexity of methods, and hesitancy among some orthopaedic surgeons to adopt these techniques need to be addressed. The integration of gait analysis into clinical practice represents a paradigm shift in the management of cerebral palsy, transitioning treatment from an art to a science. It enables clinicians to tailor interventions based on individual biomechanical profiles, ultimately enhancing the functional ability and quality of life for patients. Continued research and standardized practices are essential to maximize the effectiveness of gait analysis in this population, ensuring that children withe cerebral palsy receive the most appropriate and effective care.
Keywords: Gait Analysis, Cerebral Palsy, Instrumented Gait Lab
Literature as Social Critique: Parenting, Neoliberalism, and Lynn Steger Strong's Want
Authors: Zamir Tzachi
Published: February 2025

Abstract: To displace a paradigm within the philosophy of literature that monopolizes attempts to establish a connection between literature and social criticism—such is the aim of this essay. The paradigm is that literature uniquely conveys injustice, thereby complementing thematic reflection. To this purpose, I hope to add to the philosophy of literature's toolbox "eudaemonistic" readings, which explore how economic circumstances occasion unhappiness. My context is neoliberalism, and my example Lynn Steger Strong's Want . Focusing on parenting, privilege, and discovering the limits of nonconformist self-authorship, Want offers a particularly apt demonstration of social criticism untethered to injustice.
Blurring the Lives: Plutarch's Didactic Comparisons and Shelley's Romantic Synthesis
Authors: Briggs Roman
Published: February 2025

Abstract: In May 1819, Percy Bysshe Shelley broke away from work on his lyric Prometheus Unbound in order to compose The Cenci —a tragedy. What precipitated this? I argue that in pausing between acts 3 and 4 of the former in order to construct the latter, Shelley was engaging in the Greco-Roman tradition of moralizing by means of sketching twinned lives. While Shelley follows Plutarch, specifically, in allowing for, among other things, the mythological and the apocryphal, I suggest that his own normative project transcends his ancestor's prototype in important ways related to both form and content.
Facebook: Scowls and Smiles, Bubbles and Breaths in Macbeth
Authors: Mazzola Elizabeth
Published: February 2025

Abstract: The faces that continually appear and disappear in Macbeth supply an idea about how seeing and knowing might fold or fail or simply spoil in Shakespeare's play. Drawing upon animal studies, art history, film theory, and neurobiology, I argue that Duncan's difficulty in reading faces exemplifies an early modern world where the face's importance and ubiquity were complicated by urban mobility and print technology. Queen Elizabeth I's portraits try to control the problems posed by early modern faces, but the uncertainty Shakespeare descries in Macbeth renders the legibility of faces more important than their expressiveness or responsiveness.
Artificial Intelligence Colonialism: Environmental Damage, Labor Exploitation, and Human Rights Crises in the Global South
Authors: Regilme Salvador Santino F.
Published: February 2025

Abstract: The artificial intelligence (AI) industry, expected to reach $1.81 trillion by 2030, is revolutionizing sectors and economies worldwide. Its growth, however, intensifies global disparities and contributes to human rights abuses. This study explores two key questions: How does AI development lead to human rights violations, particularly in labor exploitation and environmental harm in the Global South? In what ways do these practices intensify systemic inequalities? This article demonstrates that AI functions as a form of digital colonialism, concentrating wealth among a global elite primarily in the Global North, while the Global South suffers from dehumanizing working conditions and environmental consequences. Laborers in the Global South endure unstable employment for low pay, supporting AI advancements while remaining unseen in the industry's narrative of progress. Concurrently, resource extraction and power-hungry AI data centers in the Global South damage ecosystems already impacted by climate change. This article emphasizes the critical need for responsible AI governance that emphasizes workers' rights, ecological preservation, and balanced global progress.
Impacts of removing the p-AlGaN electron blocking layer for ultra-low-current injected blue micro-LEDs
Authors: Zheng Lijie , Cai Shirui , Chen Guolong , Li Zilu , Ye Xianglong , Zheng Jianghui , Lu Yijun , Lai Shouqiang , Chen Zhong
Published: February 2025

In this work, the 34 × 58 μm2 ultra-low-current injected blue micro-LEDs with and without p-AlGaN electron blocking layer (EBL) were fabricated. The measured optoelectronic performance of these micro-LEDs reveals that the peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) could be enhanced by 5.5% (from 32.8% to 34.6%) at the current density of 0.4 A/cm2 by removing the EBL. The results of secondary ion mass spectrometry and Raman measurement indicated that there would be more Mg content in the p-region and less compressive stress in multiple quantum-wells of micro-LEDs by removing p-AlGaN EBL. In addition, the carrier transportation and recombination mechanisms in these micro-LEDs were analyzed by using the cryogenic temperature experiment, and the micro-hyperspectral imaging measurement showed that the difference in Mg content also affected the current spreading effect in these micro-LEDs. Finally, the results of junction temperature and surface temperature distribution indicate that removing EBL could enhance the thermal performance of ultra-low-current injected micro-LEDs. These results may give a reference for the development of wearable and near-to-eye displays.
Enhancing current spreading by designed P-electrode shapes for high efficiency and high modulation bandwidth micro-LEDs
Authors: Guo WenAn , Liu ShiBiao , Zhang Zhening , Wan MingHe , Lu Tingwei , Liu Taoming , Chen GuoLong , Pan Shaoher , Kuo Hao-Chung , Lu YiJun , Chen Zhong , Wu Tingzhu
Published: February 2025

Micro-LEDs are excellent candidates for high-resolution displays and visible-light communication (VLC). However, current crowding can significantly degrade the efficiency and modulation bandwidth of micro-LEDs, posing challenges to further development in applications. In this study, three sizes of micro-LEDs (22, 34, and 46 µm) with disk-, cross-, and ring-shaped P-electrodes were fabricated and characterized. The results demonstrated that optimizing the P-electrode shape enhances both efficiency and modulation bandwidth. The ABC + f(n) model was used to analyze the EQE, which helped in identifying the physical mechanisms for different P-electrode shapes. Notably, for the smallest 22 µm micro-LEDs, the ring-shaped P-electrode design significantly improves current spreading and enhances carrier radiative recombination, resulting in a 16.95% increase in external quantum efficiency (EQE), a 20.92% rise in light-output power (LOP), and a 14.39% enhancement in modulation bandwidth, reaching up to 151 MHz, as compared to conventional disk-shaped P-electrode micro-LEDs. Trace Pro simulation results further demonstrated that ring-shaped P-electrodes optimize the light extraction efficiency of the device. This work provides valuable guidance for fabricating high-efficiency and high-modulation-bandwidth micro-LEDs for advanced display and high-speed VLC applications.
Cavity magnon–polariton interface for strong spin–spin coupling
Authors: Peng Ma-Lei , Tian Miao , Chen Xue-Chun , Wang Ming-Feng , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Li Hai-Chao , Xiong Wei
Published: February 2025

Strong coupling between single qubits is crucial for quantum information science and quantum computation. However, it is still challenged, especially for single solid-state qubit. Here, we propose a hybrid quantum system, consisting of a coplanar waveguide (CPW) resonator weakly coupled to a single nitrogen-vacancy (NV) spin in diamond and an yttrium-iron-garnet (YIG) nanosphere holding Kerr magnons, to realize strong long-distance spin–spin coupling. With a strong driving field on magnons, the Kerr effect can squeeze magnons, and thus the coupling between the CPW resonator and the squeezed magnons is exponentially enhanced, which produces two cavity–magnon polaritons, i.e., the high-frequency polariton (HP) and the low-frequency polariton (LP). When the enhanced cavity–magnon coupling approaches the critical value (i.e., the frequency of the LP becomes zero), the spin is fully decoupled from the HP, while the coupling between the spin and the LP is significantly improved. In the dispersive regime, a strong spin–spin coupling mediated by the LP is achieved with accessible parameters. Our proposal indicates that the critical cavity–magnon polariton is a potential interface to realize strong spin–spin coupling and manipulates remote solid spins.
Multi-Scale investigations of collagen structure in human skin and gel matrices using polarization-resolved second harmonic generation microscopy
Authors: Zhou Mengyao , Gomes Madalena , Elgersma Anouk , Korkmaz Ibrahim , Boekema Bouke , Groot Marie
Published: February 2025

Collagen is critical to the structure and function of skin tissues, with the collagen I/III ratios influencing fibrillogenesis, fiber organization, and skin mechanics. Abnormal collagen organization, such as in fibrosis or scar tissue, compromises both skin functionality and aesthetics. In this study, we employed non-invasive polarization-resolved second-harmonic generation (PSHG) microscopy to investigate artificial collagen matrices with various Col I/III ratios at the fibril scale (∼1 to 3 μm) and collagen in healthy and scarred skin at the fiber scale (∼10 to 20 μm). We show that increased Col I content correlates with longer fibrils, while higher Col III content results in lower PSHG intensity and higher anisotropy, likely due to the changes in molecular alignment and fibril packing. Additionally, we estimate the effective 𝛼-helix pitch angle of Col I fibrils to be 47.72°, with a clear increasing trend as the proportion of Col III rises, reflecting alterations in fibril assembly. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis of healthy and scarred skin revealed collagen I/III ratios of 2.2 and 1.6, respectively. Healthy skin exhibited 24% greater variability in fiber orientation, indicating more randomized organization compared to scar tissue. Furthermore, the 𝛼-helix pitch angle of fibers in both healthy and scarred skin was assessed to be 46.7°. Our results demonstrate the potential of using PSHG microscopy for non-invasive monitoring and auto-quantification of collagen fibrils and fibers in biological tissues, particularly skin.
Unprecedented female mutation bias in the aye-aye, a highly unusual lemur from Madagascar
Authors: Wang Richard J. , Peña-García Yadira , Raveendran Muthuswamy , Harris R. Alan , Nguyen Thuy-Trang , Gingras Marie-Claude , Wu Yifan , Perez Lesette , Yoder Anne D. , Simmons Joe H. , Rogers Jeffrey , Hahn Matthew W.
Published: February 2025

Every mammal studied to date has been found to have a male mutation bias: male parents transmit more de novo mutations to offspring than female parents, contributing increasingly more mutations with age. Although male-biased mutation has been studied for more than 75 years, its causes are still debated. One obstacle to understanding this pattern is its near universality—without variation in mutation bias, it is difficult to find an underlying cause. Here, we present new data on multiple pedigrees from two primate species: aye-ayes (Daubentonia madagascariensis), a member of the strepsirrhine primates, and olive baboons (Papio anubis). In stark contrast to the pattern found across mammals, we find a much larger effect of maternal age than paternal age on mutation rates in the aye-aye. In addition, older aye-aye mothers transmit substantially more mutations than older fathers. We carry out both computational and experimental validation of our results, contrasting them with results from baboons and other primates using the same methodologies. Further, we analyze a set of DNA repair and replication genes to identify candidate mutations that may be responsible for the change in mutation bias observed in aye-ayes. Our results demonstrate that mutation bias is not an immutable trait, but rather one that can evolve between closely related species. Further work on aye-ayes (and possibly other lemuriform primates) should help to explain the molecular basis for sex-biased mutation.
Challenging a paradigm: Staggered versus single-pulse mass dog vaccination strategy for rabies elimination
Authors: Bellotti Brinkley Raynor , Díaz Elvis W. , De la Puente-León Micaela , Rieders Maria T. , Recuenco Sergio E. , Levy Michael Z. , Castillo-Neyra Ricardo
Published: February 2025

Background

From smallpox to poliomyelitis, halting contagion transmission through simultaneous mass vaccination is ubiquitous and often perceived as the only possible solution. But implementing mass vaccination campaigns in large populations within a short period poses many challenges. For example, in Arequipa, Peru, sweeping mass vaccination campaigns conducted yearly over a single weekend have failed to achieve the required ‘herd immunity’ to halt canine rabies transmission. Contrary to the global paradigm of a simultaneous campaign, the 2022 Arequipa rabies campaign was implemented at the sub-district level (patches), with dates of the campaign staggered across 6 months.

Methods

We constructed a stochastic, metapopulation model to examine how the timing of pulsed vaccination campaigns across patches can affect metapopulation dynamics. We explore general metapopulation dynamics for pulsed vaccinations as well as parameterizing the model for canine rabies in Arequipa, Peru. We simulated how the timing of the planned vaccination campaign, staggered over 6 months versus a single yearly pulse, affected the prospects for regional rabies elimination.

Results

Metapopulation dynamics can affect the efficacy of pulsed vaccination campaigns. In the case of Arequipa, Peru, the planned staggered mass dog vaccination campaign has the potential for local elimination with the tradeoffs of increased time to elimination and increased outbreak size due to metapopulation dynamics.

Conclusions

Heterogeneities caused by control strategies enactment at sub-population scales should be accounted for when modeling transmission dynamics. In Arequipa, Peru, although metapopulation dynamics may allow for re-introduction of canine rabies in previously vaccinated patches when mass dog vaccination campaigns are staggered temporally over 6 months, continuous mass vaccination reaching recommended vaccination coverage levels is sufficient to eliminate canine rabies.
Novel risk loci encompassing genes influencing STAT3, GPCR, and oxidative stress signaling are associated with co-morbid GERD and COPD
Authors: Wilson Ava C. , Rocco Alison , Chiles Joe , Srinivasasainagendra Vinodh , Labaki Wassim , Meyers Deborah , Hidalgo Bertha , Irvin Marguerite R. , Bhatt Surya P. , Tiwari Hemant , McDonald Merry-Lynn
Published: February 2025

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death globally. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common comorbidity in COPD associated with worse pulmonary symptoms, reduced quality of life, and increased exacerbations and hospitalizations. GERD treatment in COPD is associated with a lower risk of exacerbations and mortality; however, it is not clear whether these findings can be attributed to aging populations where both diseases are likely to co-occur or reflect shared etiology. To test for the influence of common etiology in both diseases, we aimed to identify shared genetic etiology between GERD and COPD. We performed the first whole-genome sequence association analysis of comorbid GERD and COPD in 12,438 multi-ancestry participants. The co-heritability of GERD and COPD was 39.7% (h2 = 0.397, SE = 0.074) and we identified several ancestry-independent loci associated with co-morbid GERD and COPD (within LINC02493 and FRYL) known to be involved in oxidative stress and G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling mechanisms. We found several loci associated with co-morbid GERD and COPD previously associated with GERD or COPD individually, including HCG17, which plays a role in oxidative stress mechanisms. Gene set enrichment identified GPCR signaling pathways in co-morbid GERD and COPD loci. Rare variants in ZFP42, encoding key regulators of the IL6/STAT3 pathway, have been previously implicated with GI disorders and were associated with co-morbid GERD and COPD. We identified common genetic etiology for GERD in COPD which begins to provide a mechanistic foundation for the potential therapeutic utility of STAT3, oxidation, and GPCR signaling pathway modulators in both GERD and COPD.
Prevalence and correlates of facemask usage during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda
Authors: Alema Nelson Onira , Okot Christopher , Olal Emmanuel , Ikoona Eric Nzirakaindi , Oyat Freddy Wathum Drinkwater , Baguma Steven , Ochula Denish Omoya , Olwedo Patrick Odong , Oloya Johnson Nyeko , Pebolo Francis Pebalo , Atim Pamela Okot , Okot Godfrey Smart , Nantale Ritah , Aloyo Judith , Kitara David Lagoro
Published: February 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) documented wearing facemasks in public as one of the most important prevention measures to limit COVID-19 spread. Considering this, WHO and the US CDC developed guidelines for wearing facemasks in public. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of facemask wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic in northern Uganda. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 587 adults across nine districts in northern Uganda, across 24 high-volume health facilities offering free COVID-9 vaccines. Respondents were selected from the health facilities using a single-stage systematic sampling method. Data was collected in a face-to-face questionnaire interview with an internal validity of Cronbach’s α = 0.72 and entered into Excel. A local Institutional Research Board (IRB) approved the study, and Stata 18 was used for data analysis using Modified Poisson Regression to generate prevalence ratios (PR) and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR), with a p-value set at < 0.05. The reported prevalence of facemask wearing in public among respondents was high [88.7%,95%CI:86%,-91%]. A multivariate analysis found that obese respondents and those who were receptive (agreed) to the lockdown measures were respectively,1.12 times more likely to wear facemasks [aPR = 1.12,95%CI:1.04–1.19;p < 0.01], and1.23 times more likely to wear facemasks [aPR = 1.23, 95%CI:1.07–1.41;p < 0.01]. The most significant finding from this study was the high prevalence of self-reported facemask wearing among adult community members in northern Uganda. The correlates of wearing facemasks were, being obese and agreeing with the presidential directives on the lockdown measures. Although this prevalence is within acceptable rates, the strict enforcement of the practice by security forces has raised concerns among many community members and human rights advocates. We recommend more studies on communities’ perspectives on the challenges and benefits of facemask-wearing after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Risk factors associated with high altitude sickness among travelers: A case control study in Himalaya district of Nepal
Authors: Poudel Sishir , Wagle Laxman , Ghale Mukhiya , Aryal Tara Prasad , Pokharel Sushan , Adhikari Binay
Published: February 2025

High elevation adventures are popular among travelers; however, they carry significant health risks, such as altitude sickness. This study aims to identify risk factors associated with high altitude sickness among travelers to Mustang district. A health-facility-based, age-sex matched 1:1 case-control study was conducted in Mustang district hospital, Nepal. Measurements included Acute Mountain Sickness/High Altitude Cerebral Edema/High Altitude Pulmonary Edema assessment via LLS questionnaire, demographics, medical history, ascent rate, and prophylactic medicine intake. Data were collected between September and November, 2023 via predesigned structured questionnaire by trained medical officers in, and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Using binary logistic regression, the study tested potential risk factors associated with altitude sickness. Ethical approval was obtained from the NHRC, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. A total of 63 cases (individuals with altitude sickness) and 63 controls (without) were interviewed. The mean age of cases and controls was 48.5 years (SD = 16.5) and 48 years (SD = 16.9) respectively. 38 were rapid ascenders, and 88 were slow ascenders. Awareness of altitude sickness was reported by 65 individuals, with 36 taking prophylactic medication (Acetazolamide 125/250mg). Among cases, 8 experienced HACE, 42 had AMS, and 13 had HAPE. Rapid ascent (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 6.41, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 2.36-17.54), individuals with a previous history of illness (AOR: 10.20, 95% CI: 2.70-38.46), and failing to take prophylactic medication (AOR: 10.01, 95% CI: 1.896-10.680) were linked to an increased risk of altitude sickness. Our study highlights the critical role of ascent speed, previous history of illness, and use of prophylactic measures in development of altitude sickness.
Psychological distress and coping mechanisms due to the COVID-19 pandemic among the adult population in Bo Sierra Leone. A cross-sectional study
Authors: James Peter Bai , Osborne Augustus , Bah Fatmata Seray , Bah Abdulai Jawo , Kangbai Jia Bainga , Yendewa George A.
Published: February 2025

Psychological distress is widely recognized as a significant health concern that poses a potential risk to the overall mental wellbeing of individuals. This study investigated the psychological distress associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and the coping methods employed by adults in Bo district, Sierra Leone. This research used a snapshot approach (cross-sectional design) to describe the prevalence of psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic among 502 adults residing in Bo district, Sierra Leone. We collected study data using a structured questionnaire that comprised of participant’s demographics, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), Fear of COVID-19Scale (FCV-19S), Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS), and Duke-UNC Functional Social Support instrument. We used backward stepwise binary logistic regression to identify the key factors linked to psychological distress. The average psychological stress score was 22.96±11.35, with approximately one-third of participants (n = 160, 31.9%) exhibiting very high levels of psychological distress. The mean score for fear of COVID-19 was 29.71±6.84, with the majority (n = 420,83.7%) being fearful of COVID-19. The mean score for the Brief Resilient Coping Mechanism was 12.49±4.51, with half of the participants considered low resilient copers (n = 257,51.2%). The mean score for functional social support was 25.35±8.85, with (n = 240, 47.8%) having increased social support. Individuals with a known health condition [aOR = 4.415, 95% CI = 1.859–10.484], who provided care to a family member/patient with known/suspected COVID-19 [aOR = 4.485, 95% CI = 1.575–12.775], who knew someone who died from COVID-19 [aOR = 3.117, 95% CI = 1.579–6.154], with an increased fear of COVID-19 [aOR = 4.344, 95% CI = 2.199–8.580] had higher odds of moderate to severe psychological distress. Moderate resilient copers [aOR = 0.523, 95% CI = 0.296–0.925] had lower odds of psychological distress compared to the low resilient copers. Participants with increased social support had lower odds of psychological distress than those with low support [aOR = 0.253, 95% CI = 0.147–0.434]. A significant proportion of the study cohort residing in Bo, Sierra Leone, experienced high levels of mental stress because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study shows the importance of designing and implementing programs that minimize COVID-19 stressors and enhance the coping skills and social support network.
Sugar feeding by Aedes albopictus in the Torres Strait, Australia
Authors: Sebayang Boni F. , Russell Tanya L. , Mosby Susannah , Gela Richard , Roeger Darcy L. , van de Straat Bram , Staunton Kyran M. , Burkot Thomas R.
Published: February 2025

Background

The establishment of Aedes albopictus in the Torres Strait Islands in 2005 is a threat to dengue control in the islands and on mainland Australia. Attractive targeted sugar baits (ATSBs) have been proposed as a control strategy for outdoor mosquitoes like Ae. albopictus. The sugar feeding behaviours of Ae. albopictus was studied to ascertain the potential of ATSBs to mitigate the risk of Ae. albopictus invading mainland Australia from the Torres Strait Islands.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Aedes albopictus was sampled by sweep net collections in village and bushland habitats across two islands both in the mornings and afternoons. Samples were analysed to determine adult abundance as well as fructose prevalence and content by cold-anthrone test. Sampling stations were characterised by vegetation surveys and included the prevalence of flowers and fruit, and canopy cover. Among the 6,186 captured Ae. albopictus, the prevalence of fructose was 31.6% ± 1.4 in males and 30.5% ± 1.2 in females, with fructose averaging 62.9 µg (± 1.4) in fructose-positive Ae. albopictus.

Conclusions

Mosquito sex and collection time were associated with the abundance of Ae. albopictus as well as fructose prevalence and content in Ae. albopictus. Male and female Ae. albopictus exhibited sugar abundance and prevalence comparable to studies where ATSBs were effective suggesting that ATSBs could potentially reduce Ae. albopictus populations in the Torres Strait Islands.
Prevalence and diagnostic accuracy of different diagnostic tests for Chagas disease in an indigenous community of the Paraguayan Chaco
Authors: Ardiles-Ruesjas Sofia , Lesmo Vidalia , González-Romero Valeria , Cubilla Zully , Chena Lilian , Huber Claudia , Rivas María José , Saldaña Patricia , Carrascosa Adrián , Méndez Susana , Sanz Sergi , Becker Sören L. , Alonso-Padilla Julio , Losada Irene
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), poses a major health challenge in Paraguay, especially in the resource-limited Chaco region. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are valuable tools to enhance diagnostic access. This study evaluates CD prevalence and risk factors in an indigenous community in the Paraguayan Chaco and validates the national RDT-based diagnostic algorithm for resource-limited settings against the recommended standard algorithm, which relies solely on conventional serological tests.

Methodology

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Casanillo, Presidente Hayes, Paraguay. In July 2023, a two-week field campaign was executed using a non-probability convenience sampling method targeting individuals aged over 9 months. Screening involved a single RDT, with positives confirmed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Algorithm accuracy was validated externally at the National Reference Laboratory of Paraguay against the standard algorithm, which, in this study, included an ELISA and Hemagglutination test. Discordant cases were resolved with a second ELISA or Immunofluorescence.

Results

The study involved 999 participants, with a median age of 26 years (IQR 12-45), and 51.1% were female. The RDT-based diagnostic algorithm showed 97.1% agreement (κ = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.90–0.98) with the standard algorithm. The RDT alone had 96.0% agreement (κ = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.87–0.96), while the confirmatory ELISA had 94.3% agreement (κ = 0.88, 95%CI: 0.83–0.93). The algorithm’s sensitivity/specificity (95%CI) were 94.6% (89.2–97.8)/98.6% (96.1–99.7), with the RDT at 94.6% (89.2–97.8)/96.8% (93.6–98.7) and the ELISA at 96.9% (92.3–99.2)/92.7% (88.5–95.8). T.cruzi infection seroprevalence was 12.6% (95%CI: 9.56–16.52). Age, Sanapaná ethnicity, and awareness of CD vectors were significantly associated with infection odds. No significant associations were found with other typical CD risk factors, clinical history, or health habits.

Conclusion

The study underscores the high burden of T. cruzi infection in indigenous communities in the Paraguayan Chaco, urging immediate interventions for improved diagnosis and treatment. The combination of RDTs with conventional serology for diagnostic screening in resource-constrained settings proved useful, and its further use is encouraged.
Body image and appearance distress among military veterans and civilians with an injury-related visible difference: A comparison study
Authors: Keeling Mary , Harcourt Diana , White Paul , Evans Sarah , Williams V. Victoria S. , Kiff James , Williamson Heidi
Published: February 2025

Injuries sustained during military conflict can significantly impact appearance. Yet, little is known about the psychosocial experiences of veterans with conflict-related appearance-altering injuries (AAI) and whether current civilian interventions are appropriate for this group. To inform the development of acceptable and effective support for veterans with appearance–related psychosocial difficulties, this study aimed to identify factors associated with psychosocial adjustment to an altered appearance among both veterans and civilians with AAI. A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 121 veterans and 197 civilians who had sustained AAI. Multivariable regression was used to examine factors related to adjustment in the two groups. Overall, both groups reported similar experiences, with some key exceptions. Veterans reported significantly greater depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, significantly lower Body Image (BI) psychological flexibility, BI life engagement, and higher perceived appearance-related stigma. BI psychological flexibility was identified as a key predictor of appearance-related outcomes in both groups. Self-compassion predicted social anxiety and depression symptoms in both groups, but only appearance outcomes among civilians. Based on these identified associated factors, it is suggested that both groups, but particularly veterans, may benefit from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based intervention, including explicit self-compassion activities, and practical social skills training.
Comprehensive cDNA cloning and putative feature analysis of endogenous cellulases possessed by the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Tanimura Manabu Wen-Liu , Koike Kazuhiko , Kayama Motoki , Matsuoka Kazumi
Published: February 2025

Previous studies have examined the cellulase activity of Crassostrea gigas (Pacific oyster) and suggested its potential utilization of terrestrial lignocellulose. However, no studies have been conducted to comprehensively assess its endogenous cellulases. Therefore, our objective was to identify the cellulases present in C. gigas through transcriptome and genomic analyses. The results showed that there are 10 cellulase orthologs, seven of which are endogenous. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that two of these cellulases belong to the glycoside hydrolase family (GHF) 5, four to GHF9, and one to GHF45. An alignment of the amino acid sequences suggested the presence of at least endo-β-1,4-glucanase. Therefore, C. gigas is likely capable of decomposing lignocellulose into glucose. This finding supports the fact that C. gigas, a globally commercial bivalve species, thrives in environments that lack phytoplankton, such as mangroves.
A qualitative exploration of the educational needs of people living with heart failure: BANDAIDD-Explore study
Authors: Ferguson Caleb , William Scott , Allida Sabine , Macdonald Peter S. , Kilov Gary , Chow Clara K. , Keech Anthony ,   On behalf of the BANDAIDD Study Investigator team
Published: February 2025

This is an exploratory qualitative study of cardiovascular clinicians, people living with heart failure (HF), and their caregivers. The aim was to understand the unmet educational needs in self-management for adults living with HF. Four focus groups were conducted face-to-face or via videoconference, recorded, and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. A total of 23 participants were recruited and included in analyses (clinicians n = 13; adults with HF n = 7; caregivers n = 3). The focus groups were on average 81 (range 73 to 91) minutes in duration. Seven key themes were identified which were: (i) Understanding and reinforcing the signs and symptoms, self-management, medications, and prognosis and severity of HF; (ii) Providing concise and timely education; (iii) Building trust and relationships; (iv) Accessibility of education to support patient needs; (v) Engaging family members and informal caregivers; (vi) Tailoring education to patients diverse needs; and (vii) Navigating the health system and dealing with continuity of care. There were several unmet educational needs for people living with heart failure and their caregivers. Providing patient-centred education is critical to developing understanding and reinforcing the signs and symptoms, prognosis, and severity of heart failure, to underpin self-management and optimise medication adherence. Clinicians, patients, and their caregivers provided several suggestions for improvement, such as the importance of providing concise and timely education and building trust and relationships between clinicians and patients. Priorities for education improvement were also provided, including regional and rural considerations; engaging informal family caregivers; tailoring to culturally and linguistically diverse and indigenous peoples, navigating the health system and ensuring continuity of care.
Health-economic evaluation of the outpatient, inpatient, and public health sector in Germany: Insights from the first three COVID-19 waves
Authors: Gandjour Afschin
Published: February 2025

Aim

The aim of this study is to quantify the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the outpatient and inpatient sectors (specifically intensive care units, ICUs) and local health departments in managing the first three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany.

Methods

The analysis is based on a modelling approach using secondary data. The effectiveness of each sector was measured by determining the reduction in the case fatality rate (CFR) of COVID-19 patients by May 7, 2021. A counterfactual scenario assuming the absence of each sector was used to quantify their effectiveness. Direct medical costs for each sector were calculated from a statutory health insurance perspective, utilizing reimbursement rates for both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were determined, representing the costs per death avoided.

Results

The ICUs achieved the greatest reduction in the CFR of COVID-19 patients during the first three waves (1.9%). The outpatient sector followed with a reduction of 1.4%, and the local health departments contributed to a 0.3% decrease in the CFR. In terms of spending, ICUs had the highest expenditures among the sectors, resulting in an ICER of €59,055 per death avoided. On the other hand, local health departments were costlier but less effective than the outpatient sector. Results remained consistent across various input assumptions.

Conclusion

During the first three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany, the inpatient sector (ICUs) made the largest contribution to preventing deaths while also incurring the highest costs.
Optimized transmission of multi-path low-latency routing for electricity internet of things based on SDN task distribution
Authors: Jin Qi
Published: February 2025

With the continuous development of 5G network, how to further improve the routing and transmission efficiency of electric power IoT has become a popular research at present. Facing the current problems of high data transmission delay, low efficiency, and large task volume in the electric power IoT, this research combines software-defined networking to design a multi-path low-latency routing and transmission model under the concept of task allocation. First, the grid data communication network model and network slicing technology in 5G power IoT are introduced. On this basis, considering the data transmission in the core network in the power IoT, a multi-path low-latency routing optimization transmission model based on software-defined network task allocation is designed by combining the software-defined network controller and task allocation concept. The results indicated that the average delay of the designed model is only 15.78ms when the transmission task size is 10KB and 23.38ms when the transmission task size is 50KB. In addition, the designed model was able to achieve a throughput of 298bps in the local area network and the lowest jitter and packet loss in the wide area network, which are 0.13ms and 0.001%. It can be concluded that the constructed multi-path low-latency routing and transmission model can not only provide theoretical guidance for the optimization of data transmission in the power IoT, but also lay the foundation for the in-depth application and development of software-defined networking in the power IoT and other fields.
Complex regulation of Cav2.2 N-type Ca2+ channels by Ca2+ and G-proteins
Authors: Thomas Jessica R. , Sun Jinglang , De la Rosa Vazquez Juan , Lee Amy
Published: February 2025

G-protein coupled receptors inhibit Cav2.2 N-type Ca2+ channels by a fast, voltage-dependent pathway mediated by Gαi/Gβγ and a slow, voltage-independent pathway mediated by Gαq-dependent reductions in phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) or increases in arachidonic acid. Studies of these forms of regulation generally employ Ba2+ as the permeant ion, despite that Ca2+ -dependent pathways may impinge upon G-protein modulation. To address this possibility, we compared tonic G-protein inhibition of currents carried by Ba2+ (IBa) and Ca2+ (ICa) in HEK293T cells transfected with Cav2.2. Both IBa and ICa exhibited voltage-dependent facilitation (VDF), consistent with Gβγ unbinding from the channel. Compared to that for IBa, VDF of ICa was less sensitive to an inhibitor of Gα proteins (GDP-β-S) and an inhibitor of Gβγ (C-terminal construct of G-protein coupled receptor kinase 2). While insensitive to high intracellular Ca2+ buffering, VDF of ICa that remained in GDP-β-S was blunted by reductions in PIP2. We propose that when G-proteins are inhibited, Ca2+ influx through Cav2.2 promotes a form of VDF that involves PIP2. Our results highlight the complexity whereby Cav2.2 channels integrate G-protein signaling pathways, which may enrich the information encoding potential of chemical synapses in the nervous system.
In-silico tool based on Boolean networks and meshless simulations for prediction of reaction and transport mechanisms in the systemic administration of chemotherapeutic drugs
Authors: Vélez Salazar Fabián Mauricio , Patiño Iván David
Published: February 2025

Using in-house computational tools, this work focuses on investigating how the combination of the electric field magnitude (E), bloodstream velocity (λinl) and pharmaco-kinetic profile (PK) impacts the reaction and transport mechanisms of drug (RTMs) arising in electro-chemotherapeutic treatments. The first step implies retrieving the ratios between extracellular, free intracellular, and bound intracellular concentrations from numerical simulations, employing a meshless code developed, calibrated and validated in a previous work. Subsequently, a Boolean model is developed to determine the presence, interaction and rates of RTMs based on the comparison of the spatio-temporal evolution of the drug concentration ratios, being this the main contribution of the present work to the comprehension of the phenomena involved in the systemic administration of chemotherapeutic drugs in cancer tumors. Different combinations of E (0 kV/m, 46 kV/m, 70 kV/m), λinl (1x10−4m/s, 1x10−3m/s, 1x10−2m/s) and PK (One-short tri-exponential, mono-exponential) are examined. In general, results show that both the presence and relative importance of RTMs can differ between both PKs for a given combination of E and λinl. Additionally, for a given PK, radial uniformity of transmembrane transport rate is aversively affected by the increase of E and λinl, whereas radial homogeneity of association/dissociation rate is monotonously affected only by E. Regarding the axial uniformity of transmembrane transport rate, this is benefited by the increase of λinl and, in a lower extent, by the reduction of E.
The long-term and short-term effects of interest rate volatility on corporate bankruptcy risk: An industry and supply chain perspective
Authors: Chen Lingfei , Zhang Kai , Yang Xueying
Published: February 2025

While higher interest rates increase the cost of credit financing for businesses, this study finds that the direct impact of this traditional credit transmission mechanism on corporate bankruptcy risk is limited. Instead, our research reveals that changes in corporate behavior induced by rising debt financing costs are the root cause of bankruptcy risk. In the short term, an increase in interest rates drives businesses to substitute supply chain financing for credit financing in pursuit of profit maximization. This mismatch of short-term debt and long-term investments undermines the sustainability of the supply chain, ultimately reducing financial security—sacrificing safety for profitability. In the long term, higher interest rates exacerbate the overcapacity problem in industries, increasing the unsustainability of the production and sales balance. Using data from China’s construction industry, this study empirically tests these findings and, based on the main conclusions, provides policy suggestions regarding the long- and short-term effects of monetary policy on the sustainable development of China’s construction industry: (1) focus on short-term interest rate risks and be vigilant against commercial credit bubbles; (2) long-term monetary policy should prioritize industrial structure optimization.
Revealing the status of Orbicella: Main reef-builder of Morrocoy National Park and Cuare Wildlife Refuge, Venezuela, Southern Caribbean
Authors: Yranzo-Duque Anaurora , Herrera-Reveles Ana Teresa , Villamizar Estrella , Cabada-Blanco Francoise , Pérez-Benítez Jeannette , Boadas Hazael , Rodríguez Quintal José G. , Pereira Carlos , Narciso Samuel , Bustillos Freddy A.
Published: February 2025

Reef-building corals are the main basis of coral reef ecosystems, and the Orbicella genus is currently the most important in the Caribbean region. Although Orbicella species have been extensively studied, gaps in some southern Caribbean areas still exists on their status, which is crucial for management and conservation plans. In this study, we aimed to describe the population status of Orbicella faveolata and Orbicella annularis in two coastal Marine Protected Areas (MPA) of Venezuela: Morrocoy National Park and Cuare Wildlife Refuge. Between 2018-2020, 16 reefs in five sectors were surveyed using the Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment Protocol. Among the two Orbicella species, O. faveolata was dominant in both MPA´s with higher densities and live cover, varying at both reefs and sectors. The central sector of Morrocoy and reefs from Cuare are the most relevant for Orbicella populations, due to the higher live cover and abundance of reproductive colonies. Diseases were the primary threat recorded for both species. Adequate MPA management is essential for the conservation of the Morrocoy-Cuare coral system, including the reduction of local anthropogenic stress sources, such as oil spills, uncontrolled tourism and sewage discharges.
Midwifery care in The Gambia: A focus group study with clinical midwives, midwifery students, educators and leaders on how barriers and facilitators impact quality midwifery care
Authors: Suwareh Lamin , Lindgren Helena , Erlandsson Kerstin , Tunkara Bah Haddy , Holm Evelina , Meljoum Majda , Manjang Omar , Sanneh Saineh , Cham Baboucarr , Byrskog Ulrika
Published: February 2025

Objective

The aim of this study is to explore the impact of barriers and facilitators on the quality of midwifery care in The Gambia, from the perspectives of clinical midwives, midwifery students, educators, and leaders.

Methods

A qualitative study based on focus group discussions with 29 clinical midwives, midwifery students, educators and leaders analysed with content analysis. The study was conducted in The Gambia.

Results

The analyses led to three main categories outlining barriers and facilitators for the quality of midwifery care: 1) the gap between theory and practice, 2) working in a harsh environment and 3) facilitating factors that can pave ways forward. The results are described in generic categories: 1a) national plans and facility-based guidelines, 1b) midwifery education, 1c) becoming a skilled midwife, 2a) scarcity of resources, 2b) encountering community barriers, 2c) midwives - a passionate but demotivated profession, 3a) positive assets for quality midwifery care, 3b) women in leadership as a tool for a motivated midwifery workforce and 3c) teamwork.

Conclusions

Addressing the gaps between theory and practice, and strengthening the incentives for midwives to remain in their profession are central for improved quality of midwifery care in The Gambia. Guaranteed employment after completing education, equal opportunities for men and women to become midwives and the significance of passion are assets which need to be carefully maintained within the health care system.