bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origin and distribution of clay minerals in semi-arid Sahelian soils: case of Kori Ouallam watershed, south-western Niger
Authors: Noma Adamou Salifou , Daoudi Lahcen , Abdourhamane Touré Amadou , Fagel Nathalie
Published: October 2024

This study examines the origin and distribution of clay minerals of the pedological horizons of Kori Ouallam watershed (south-western Niger). It is based on field sampling campaigns and a series of laboratory analyses. A total of 49 samples were analysed, 28 from surface horizons (0–10 cm depth) and 21 from pedological profiles (0–1 m depth). The samples were analysed by X-ray diffraction on bulk and clay (<2 μm) fractions, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, laser granulometry, organic matter and calcium carbonate content, macroscopic observations (binocular loupe) and scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy-dispersive spectrometry system. The pedological horizons are characterized by low organic matter contents (<1%) and no calcium carbonate. The particle-size distribution shows net textural differentiation, with a predominance of sandy loam to sandy clay loam textures in the upper horizons and clay loam to clay in the deep horizons. The main major oxides were SiO2 (46.3–89.0%), Al2O3 (5.0–24.2%) and Fe2O3 (1.0–27.9%). Kaolinite (64–98%) is the predominant clay mineral at all horizons, associated with low to moderate proportions of illite (1–34%) and traces of chlorite. Kaolinite is essentially inherited from the parent rock, whereas illite results from chemical alteration by bisialitization of the primary minerals initially rich in potassium feldspar contained in the parent rock. However, soil texture and organic matter vary independently with clay mineralogy. An extended study of all of the pedological facies that make up south-western Niger, combined with supplementary analyses, would further improve our understanding of clay mineralogy in the Sahelian zone.
Evidence for a lipofibroblast-to-Cthrc1+myofibroblast reversible switch during the development and resolution of lung fibrosis in young mice
Authors: Lingampally Arun , Truchi Marin , Mauduit Olivier , Delcroix Vanessa , Vasquez-Pacheco Esmeralda , Gautier-Isola Marine , Chu Xuran , Khadim Ali , Chao Cho-Ming , Zabihi Mahsa , Taghizadeh Sara , Rivetti Stefano , Marega Manuela , Moiseenko Alena , Hadzic Stefan , Vazquez-Armendariz Ana Ivonne , Herold Susanne , Günther Stefan , Millar-Büchner Pamela , Koepke Janine , Samakovlis Christos , Wilhelm Jochen , Bartkuhn Marek , Braun Thomas , Weissmann Norbert , Zhang JinSan , Wygrecka Malgorzata , Makarenkova Helen P. , Günther Andreas , Seeger Werner , Chen Chengshui , El Agha Elie , Mari Bernard , Bellusci Saverio
Published: October 2024

Background

Fibrosis is often associated with aberrant repair mechanisms that ultimately lead to organ failure. In the lung, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal form of interstitial lung disease for which there is currently no curative therapy. From the cell biology point of view, the cell of origin and eventual fate of activated myofibroblasts (aMYFs) have taken centre stage, as these cells are believed to drive structural remodelling and lung function impairment. While aMYFs are now widely believed to originate from alveolar fibroblasts, the heterogeneity and ultimate fate of aMYFs during fibrosis resolution remain elusive. We have shown previously that aMYF dedifferentiation and acquisition of a lipofibroblast (LIF)-like phenotype represent a route of fibrosis resolution.

Methods

In this study, we combined genetic lineage tracing and single-cell transcriptomics in mice, and data mining of human IPF datasets to decipher the heterogeneity of aMYFs and investigate differentiation trajectories during fibrosis resolution. Furthermore, organoid cultures were utilised as a functional readout for the alveolar mesenchymal niche activity during various phases of injury and repair in mice.

Results

Our data demonstrate that aMYFs consist of four subclusters displaying unique pro-alveologenicversuspro-fibrotic profiles. Alveolar fibroblasts displaying a high LIF-like signature largely constitute both the origin and fate of aMYFs during fibrogenesis and resolution, respectively. The heterogeneity of aMYFs is conserved in humans and a significant proportion of human aMYFs displays a high LIF signature.

Conclusion

Our work identifies a subcluster of aMYFs that is potentially relevant for future management of IPF.
Comparison of oronasal and nasal masks in home mechanical ventilation: an observational cohort and bench study
Authors: Fresnel Emeline , Caillard Christian , Lebret Marius , Razakamanantsoa Léa , Kerfourn Adrien , Dupuis Johan , Muir Jean-François , Lhuillier Elodie , El Husseini Kinan , Similowski Thomas , Cuvelier Antoine , Patout Maxime
Published: October 2024

Background

In patients with chronic respiratory failure, home non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is delivered through oronasal or nasal masks. Masks are a cornerstone for NIV success but can be associated with side-effects. However, the type, frequency and consequences of these side-effects are unknown. Here, we aimed to study the prevalence, nature and impact of mask-related adverse events in a cohort of stable patients. We then investigated differences between oronasal and nasal masks both in our cohort and in a bench study.

Methods

This was a prospective observational cohort including patients established on long-term NIV admitted for their elective review. Data regarding mask-related side-effects were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Our bench study was performed using a three-dimensional printed head connected to an artificial lung.

Results

800 patients were included, of whom 84% had an oronasal mask. Moderate to very severe mask-related side-effects occurred in 47% of patients and severe to very severe side-effects occurred in 18% of patients. Side-effects were associated with poorer daytime arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (p=0.005), poorer subjective sleep quality (p=0.003) and poorer quality of life (p<0.001). Mask-related side-effects were more frequently reported with the use of oronasal masks compared to nasal masks (p=0.023). Our bench study showed that nasal masks were more stable than oronasal masks (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Mask-related side-effects are frequent and associated with poorer outcomes. Our data suggest that nasal masks may have a better tolerance profile and should be used as a first-line interface.
Effect of Pulse Current on Interface Microstructure and Bonding Properties of TA1/304 Double-Layer Clad plates
Authors: Guo Xiongwei , Ren Zhongkai , Zhang Pengjie , Zhang Chao , Jiang Shuyong , Zhang Qi , Wang Tao , Huang Qingxue
Published: October 2024

It is difficult to effectively improve the low bonding strength of TA1/304 clad plates. This study proposes a new process for applying pulse current (1500 A, 500 Hz, 50% duty cycle) to TA1/304 clad plates during the rolling process, which changes the interface microstructure and effectively improves the bonding strength of the clad plates. The influence of the pulsed current on the interface microstructure and bonding strength was systematically studied. The results indicate that the clad plate is initially bonded at 750 °C and 35% reduction ratio under electrically-assisted rolling (EAR), and finally the higher bonding strength is obtained at 850 °C and 48% reduction ratio, reaching 395 MPa. The strengthening of the interface element diffusion and grain refinement under the action of the pulsed current are important reasons for the improvement in the bonding strength of the clad plate. This discovery provides new ideas for the preparation of clad plates with high bonding performance.
Extremely high levels of PBDEs in children’s toys from European markets: causes and implications for the circular economy
Authors: Olisah Chijioke , Melymuk Lisa , Audy Ondrej , Kukucka Petr , Pribylova Petra , Boudot Martin
Published: October 2024

Background

With the high influx of low-cost plastic toys on the market, there is growing concern about the safety of such toys. Some of these plastic toys contains hazardous chemicals like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) due to the use of recycled plastics in new toy manufacturing. Here, we investigated if toys marketed in Europe are compliant with EU directives to assess the safety of currently used children's toys and identify implications of PBDE content in toys.

Results

Eighty-four toys purchased from international toy retailers were screened for bromine using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and 11 of those with bromine content higher than 500 µg/g were analyzed for ten PBDEs using GC–HRMS. PBDEs were detected in all 11 toys. Ʃ10PBDE concentrations ranged up to 23.5 mg/g (with a median concentration of 8.61 mg/g), with BDE-209 being the most abundant compound (4.40 mg/g). Eight samples exceeded the EU’s Low POP Content Limit (LPCL) of 500 µg/g for the Ʃ10PBDEs by 6–47 times and the Unintentional Trace Contaminant (UTC) limits of 10 µg/g for Deca-BDE by 12–800 times.

Conclusions

PBDEs were up to percent levels, suggesting direct recycling of flame retarded plastic, e.g., e-waste plastics, into toy components. This is a call for concern and requires intervention from all stakeholders involved in the toy market. Overall, the occurrence of non-compliant toys in the EU market, as indicated in this study is primarily attributed to gaps in regulations, inadequate legislation for recycled plastics, the rise of online sales, complexities in global and national supply chains, and economic challenges. Failure to address these issues will hinder the efforts of the plastics industry to transition into a circular economy. This suggests that more actions are needed to address gaps in cross-border enforcement, and stricter sanctions are required for toy manufacturers who fail to adhere to regulations and safety standards.
Efficiency of dynamic traffic signal control in work zones with shuttle operation: theory and practice
Authors: Mikolášek Igor
Published: October 2024

Portable traffic signals with fixed-time signal plans are a common type of traffic control at work zones with shuttle traffic. The most-used alternatives are flagging and intelligent transport systems with traffic-actuated signals. These can provide more efficient traffic control, but existing policies often do little to encourage their practical application. This paper provides a clear and accessible overview of shuttle operations and a comparison of the main signal control types while addressing some knowledge gaps, such as whole-day operation efficiency. The relations between different variables of the signal plan and traffic flow are derived to build a theoretical framework and models for both deterministic and random arrivals to estimate delays and to find the optimal signal plan setting for a wide range of circumstances. The hypothetical scenarios are supported by a case study. Traffic and signal control data from several construction phases of a work zone with shuttle operation were gathered, processed, analysed, and used to compare different control scenarios. The results provide solid evidence for the efficiency of the dynamic systems. The magnitude of the difference is heavily affected by circumstances. The efficiency of the green signal almost doubled with the dynamic control. The case study also revealed a severe impact of road conditions (milling) on the work zone capacity. Several standards and policies are proposed based on the findings to encourage wider and more efficient adoption of traffic-actuated signals in work zones.
Stress management training program to address caregiver burden and perceived stress among family caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis: a randomized controlled trial study
Authors: Khouban-Shargh Ramisa , Mirhosseini Seyedmohammad , Ghasempour Saeed , Basirinezhad Mohammad Hasan , Abbasi Ali
Published: October 2024

Background

The objective of the current study was to assess the effectiveness of stress management training, grounded in Lazarus and Folkman’s stress management model, on reducing caregiving burden and perceived stress among family caregivers of patients on hemodialysis.

Methods

This two-group clinical trial study was conducted in parallel design among 60 family caregivers of patients on hemodialysis in 2023. The participants were divided into two groups of training and control using a random quadruple block allocation method. The intervention took place over two months, in six online group sessions of 35–45 min. Zarit Burden Inventory (ZBI) and Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) were used to collect information before and two weeks after the intervention. The study data were analyzed using and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), pair, and independent t-tests at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

At baseline, the two groups exhibited homogeneity in terms of mean scores for caregiving burden (Training group = 50.8 ± 4.9; Control group = 49.1 ± 6.0; P = 0.264) and perceived stress (Training group = 32.8 ± 4.7; Control group = 31.5 ± 2.4; P = 0.192). Nevertheless, following the intervention, there was a significant decrease in caregiving burden (Training group = 45.9 ± 4.1; Control group = 49.0 ± 5.8; P = 0.017) and perceived stress (Training group = 28.0 ± 4.4; Control group = 30.7 ± 3.5; P = 0.01) scores within the training group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of the current study, given that family caregivers of patients on hemodialysis encounter psychological distress and contend with the negative aspects of care, it is advisable to implement psycho-educational interventions, such as stress management training. Incorporating these interventions into the care plan for hemodialysis could help mitigate these adverse consequences and provide valuable support for family caregivers.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), IRCT20180728040617N6. Registered on 17/04/2023.
Unraveling the brain dynamics of Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder: a dynamic functional network connectivity analysis
Authors: Zheng Sisi , Zhang Francis Xiatian , Shum Hubert P. H. , Zhang Haozheng , Song Nan , Song Mingkang , Jia Hongxiao
Published: October 2024

Background

Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder (DPD), a prevalent psychiatric disorder, fundamentally disrupts self-consciousness and could significantly impact the quality of life of those affected. While existing research has provided foundational insights for this disorder, the limited exploration of brain dynamics in DPD hinders a deeper understanding of its mechanisms. It restricts the advancement of diagnosis and treatment strategies. To address this, our study aimed to explore the brain dynamics of DPD.

Methods

In our study, we recruited 84 right-handed DPD patients and 67 healthy controls (HCs), assessing them using the Cambridge Depersonalization Scale and a subliminal self-face recognition task. We also conducted a Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) intervention to understand its effect on brain dynamics, evidenced by Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scans. Our data preprocessing and analysis employed techniques such as Independent Component Analysis (ICA) and Dynamic Functional Network Connectivity (dFNC) to establish a comprehensive disease atlas for DPD. We compared the brain's dynamic states between DPDs and HCs using ANACOVA tests, assessed correlations with patient experiences and symptomatology through Spearman correlation analysis, and examined the tDCS effect via paired t-tests.

Results

We identified distinct brain networks corresponding to the Frontoparietal Network (FPN), the Sensorimotor Network (SMN), and the Default Mode Network (DMN) in DPD using group Independent Component Analysis (ICA). Additionally, we discovered four distinct dFNC states, with State-1 displaying significant differences between DPD and HC groups (F = 4.10, P = 0.045). Correlation analysis revealed negative associations between the dwell time of State-2 and various clinical assessment factors. Post-tDCS analysis showed a significant change in the mean dwell time for State-2 in responders (t-statistic = 4.506, P = 0.046), consistent with previous clinical assessments.

Conclusions

Our study suggests the brain dynamics of DPD could be a potential biomarker for diagnosis and symptom analysis, which potentially leads to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for DPD patients.

Trial registrations

The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 03/01/2021 (Registration number: ChiCTR2100041741, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=66731) before the trial.
Usability and feasibility of an online intervention for older adults to support changes to routines and the home ('Light, activity and sleep in my daily life')
Authors: Gerhardsson Kiran M. , Hassan Mariam , Tornberg Åsa B. , Schmidt Steven M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Indoor lighting, exposure to outdoor daylight, physical activity and sleep interact to influence functioning, mood and cicadian rhythm. Older adults (≥ 65 years), who often spend more time at home, are less physically active and experience more sleep problems, could benefit from strategies to support behavioural change and self-managed modifications in the home. The study’s primary objective was to assess the usability and feasibility of the ‘Light, activity and sleep in my daily life’ intervention, delivered as a web-based course.

Methods

This 9-week intervention was delivered in a municipality in Sweden (55.70° N). Participants were eight healthy women (age 71–84), community-living in one-person households. We recruited through municipal staff and posters at senior citizen meeting points. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected before and after the intervention. The outcome measures were intervention usability (ease of use, usefulness) and study feasibility (e.g., recruitment procedure, online engagement). Measures also included changes to routines and self-managed home adjustments to determine whether the participants applied what they had learnt.

Results

All participants completed the intervention. Time logged in varied between 25 min and 3 h (M = 1 h 50 min) per week. Seven participants’ system usability scores were between 90 and 100 (‘Excellent’) out of 100. When interviewed, participants reported overall high satisfaction with what they had learnt. Six participants were particularly satisfied with the modules targeting light. Seven participants made changes to their lighting or darkness conditions, such as replaced bulbs with either 3-step dimming or higher colour temperature LEDs (samples were included in the intervention test kit). One suggestion to improve the online delivery was to enable participants to add text comments to the weekly evaluation form.

Conclusions

The web-based intervention was feasible to deliver but time for recruitment should be extended and advertisement in the local newspaper should be considered. Participants’ computer proficiency and access to the internet at home will be critical in a future study with a larger sample. Only minor changes to the online content of the intervention are needed based on participants’ feedback. The intervention will be possible to evaluate in a future pilot study.
Ethical use of big data for healthy communities and a strong nation: unique challenges for the Military Health System
Authors: Koehlmoos Tracey Perez , Korona-Bailey Jessica , Elzey Jared , Marshall Brandeis , Shanley Lea A.
Published: October 2024

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) created powerful tools for research, particularly for extracting meaningful insights from extremely large data sets. These developments increase research benefits of big data and risks posed to individual privacy, forcing a re-examination of ethics in research which is of particular importance to the Military Health System. To advance discussion of research ethics in this context, the Forum on Health and National Security: Ethical Use of Big Data for Healthy Communities and a Strong Nation was held in December 2018. The workshop was designed to identify ethical questions relevant to population and health research studies using difficult to access, health-related data in the Department of Defense (DoD). Discussions explored researchers’ ethical obligations to research subjects, particularly in the areas of privacy, trust, and consent, as well as potential methods to improve researchers’ ability to collect, access, and share data while protecting privacy and potential risks to national security. These include creating risk management frameworks and data governance policies, improving education and workplace training, and increasing community involvement in research design and practice. While the workshop was conducted in 2018, the discussion of data ethics is still relevant today. The research agenda of the nation is best served by building ethics into the research ecosystem. There are substantial challenges to fully realizing this goal including commitments of time and funding to address the ethical complexities, train others to understand them, and create appropriate ethical frameworks before research begins.
The relationship between serum HDL-cholesterol, cardiovascular disease and mortality in community-based people with type 2 diabetes: the Fremantle Diabetes Study phase 2
Authors: Davis Timothy M. E. , Chubb S. A. Paul , Davis Wendy A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Older general population-based studies found an inverse association between serum HDL-cholesterol and both cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and mortality, but more recent data have suggested a U-shaped relationship. Whether this applies to type 2 diabetes is uncertain. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of serum HDL-cholesterol concentrations in representative, community-based participants from the Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase II (FDS2).

Methods

We followed 1,479 FDS2 participants with confirmed type 2 diabetes (713 females, mean age 65.6 years; 763 males, mean age 65.9 years) from entry (2008–2011) to death/end-2021. Major adverse cardiovascular events (non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), non-fatal stroke, cardiovascular death; 3-point MACE), and all-cause mortality were ascertained from prospectively collected data and validated administrative databases. Independent associates of 3-point MACE by sex, excluding participants with prior MI/stroke, were assessed using Cox and competing risk models with sex-specific quintiles of HDL-cholesterol added to the most parsimonious models. Predictors of all-cause mortality were identified using Cox proportional hazards modelling.

Results

In females, with baseline serum HDL-cholesterol quintile 2 (1.04–1.22 mmol/L) as reference, both quintiles 1 (< 1.04 mmol/L) and 5 (> 1.59 mmol/L) were significant independent predictors of 3-point MACE (P < 0.027) and all-cause death (P < 0.019) after adjustment for a full range of demographic, clinical and laboratory variables. In males, serum HDL-cholesterol quintile did not add to the most parsimonious model for 3-point MACE, but quintile 1 (< 0.90 mmol/L) was a significant predictor of death (P = 0.026 versus quintile 4 (1.15–1.31 mmol/L) as reference) after adjustment. Competing risk analyses for 3-point MACE showed similar results to the Cox models for both sexes.

Conclusion

There was a significant U-shaped relationship between serum HDL-cholesterol and both 3-point MACE and all-cause death in females with type 2 diabetes after adjustment for confounders. There was no such relationship for 3-point MACE in males but a low HDL-cholesterol was associated with all-cause mortality. These data have sex-specific implications for assessment of serum lipid profiles in the clinical management of type 2 diabetes.
The diagnostic performance of neck ultrasound in follow-up of advanced stage differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Munro Vicki , Mustafa Syed , Siddiqi Ferhan S. , Rajaraman Murali , Costa Andreu F. , Imran Syed Ali
Published: October 2024

Background

Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) requires long-term follow-up due to the risk of delayed recurrence. Follow-up surveillance involves serial neck ultrasound (US) and thyroglobulin (Tg); however, the optimal frequency and diagnostic performance of neck US outside of specialized thyroid cancer centres in higher risk patients is not well defined. We sought to evaluate the diagnostic performance of US and serial Tg in advanced stage DTC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our thyroid cancer database for patients with stage III and IV DTC from 2006 to 2018, total thyroidectomy, and at least 2 years follow-up to assess recurrence rates. Those with hemi-thyroidectomy or anti-Tg antibodies were excluded. Diagnostic performance of US and Tg were assessed using a composite reference standard of follow-up imaging and pathology. All relevant US were reviewed by a blinded expert radiologist for uniformity.

Results

Of 136 included patients (91 females, mean age 58.9), 26 (19%) had recurrence of DTC over median follow-up of 6.6 years (IQR 5.3–9.3). The sensitivity and specificity of US in diagnosing cervical recurrence were 73.3% (95% CI 0.51–0.96) and 68.3% (95% CI 0.60–0.77) based on historical reports, respectively, and 80% (95% CI 0.60-1.00) and 87.8% (95% CI 0.82–0.93) based on blinded expert review, respectively. Tg had a sensitivity of 95.5% (95% CI 0.89-1.0) and specificity of 96.2% (95% CI 0.92–0.99) in detecting cervical recurrence or distant metastases. False positive US findings on historical US and subsequent review occurred in 38 (28%) and 15 (11%) patients, respectively, while 5 (3.6%) had false positive Tg results.

Conclusion

Serial Tg has better sensitivity and specificity than US for detecting recurrence of advanced stage DTC. Furthermore, re-interpretation of abnormal findings using structured US reporting with a subspecialized reader may improve diagnostic performance of US and improve its utility in clinical care.
SDePER: a hybrid machine learning and regression method for cell-type deconvolution of spatial barcoding-based transcriptomic data
Authors: Liu Yunqing , Li Ningshan , Qi Ji , Xu Gang , Zhao Jiayi , Wang Nating , Huang Xiayuan , Jiang Wenhao , Wei Huanhuan , Justet Aurélien , Adams Taylor S. , Homer Robert , Amei Amei , Rosas Ivan O. , Kaminski Naftali , Wang Zuoheng , Yan Xiting
Published: October 2024

Spatial barcoding-based transcriptomic (ST) data require deconvolution for cellular-level downstream analysis. Here we present SDePER, a hybrid machine learning and regression method to deconvolve ST data using reference single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. SDePER tackles platform effects between ST and scRNA-seq data, ensuring a linear relationship between them while addressing sparsity and spatial correlations in cell types across capture spots. SDePER estimates cell-type proportions, enabling enhanced resolution tissue mapping by imputing cell-type compositions and gene expressions at unmeasured locations. Applications to simulated data and four real datasets showed SDePER’s superior accuracy and robustness over existing methods.
Why does malaria transmission continue at high levels despite universal vector control? Quantifying persistent malaria transmission by Anopheles funestus in Western Province, Zambia
Authors: Ashton Ruth A. , Chanda Benjamin , Chishya Chama , Muyabe Rayford , Kaniki Tresford , Mambo Patricia , Mwenya Mwansa , Mwaanga Gift , Arnzen Annie , Orange Erica , Saili Kochelani , Banda Yikona Handrinah , Chulu John , Chitoshi Chanda , Kyomuhangi Irene , Miller John , Silumbe Kafula , Hamainza Busiku , Littrell Megan , Yukich Joshua , Kleinschmidt Immo , Chanda Javan , Wagman Joseph , Eisele Thomas P.
Published: October 2024

Background

Some settings continue to experience a high malaria burden despite scale-up of malaria vector control to high levels of coverage. Characterisation of persistent malaria transmission in the presence of standard control measures, also termed residual malaria transmission, to understand where and when individuals are exposed to vector biting is critical to inform refinement of prevention and control strategies.

Methods

Secondary analysis was performed using data collected during a phase III cluster randomized trial of attractive targeted sugar bait stations in Western Province, Zambia. Two seasonal cohorts of children aged 1–14 years were recruited and monitored monthly during the malaria transmission season, concurrent with entomological surveillance using a combination of human landing catch (HLC) and Centres for Disease Control (CDC) light traps at randomly selected households in study clusters. Behavioural data from cohort participants were combined with measuredAnopheles funestuslanding rates and sporozoite positivity to estimate the human behaviour-adjusted entomological inoculation rate (EIR).

Results

Behavioural data from 1237 children over 5456 child-visits in 20 entomology surveillance clusters were linked with hourly landing rates from 8131 femaleAn.funestustrapped by HLC. Among allAn.funestustested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), 3.3% were sporozoite-positive. Mean EIR directly measured from HLC was 0.07 infectious bites per person per night (ib/p/n). When accounting for child locations over the evening and night, the mean behaviour-adjusted EIR was 0.02 ib/p/n. Children not sleeping under insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) experienced 13.6 infectious bites per person per 6 month season, 8% of which occurred outdoors, while ITN users received 1.3 infectious bites per person per 6 month season, 86% of which were received outdoors. Sleeping under an ITN can prevent approximately 90% of potentialAn.funestusbites among children.

Conclusions

In this setting ITNs have a high personal protective efficacy owing to peakAn.funestusbiting occurring indoors while most individuals are asleep. However, despite high household possession of ITNs (>90%) and high individual use (>70%), children in this setting experience more than one infectious bite per person per 6 month transmission season, sufficient to maintain high malaria transmission and burden. New tools and strategies are required to reduce the malaria burden in such settings.

Graphical Abstract
Changes in work status after cancer diagnosis and their associations with depressive symptoms among cancer survivors: findings from the Korean longitudinal study of ageing
Authors: Lee Da-eun , Kim Yeonjin , Kim Young-mee , Cho Sung-il
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Cancer survivors encounter significant psychological suffering and are prone to develop depressive symptoms. Work contributes to personal fulfillment and social connections, and by doing so, enhances a cancer survivor’s resilience against adversities. However, maintaining employment can be challenging for some cancer survivors. This research aimed to identify the association between changes in work status and depressive symptoms among cancer survivors in South Korea.

Methods

This study used the panel data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLoSA) and included 199 cancer survivors–799 observations–aged 65 or younger, between 2005 and 2018. Changes in work status consisted of continuous unemployment or employment, quitting a job, and getting a job. We defined depressive symptoms as a CES-D-10 score of 10 or higher and a cut-off of 4 was utilized for sensitivity analysis. Multivariable generalized estimating equation was employed to estimate the odds ratio (OR), adjusting for the number of household members, education level, sex, age, marital status, occupations, cancer treatment, cancer type, catastrophic healthcare expenditure (CHE), and survivorship. Subgroup analysis and interaction between changes in work and cancer types were further explored.

Results

For depressive symptoms, the OR of the continuous unemployment group was 2.27 (95% CI = 1.10–4.69), and the OR of the group that quit a job was 2.20 (95% CI = 1.03–4.72), compared to the continuous employment group. As survivorship increased, the odds of depressive symptoms decreased (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.89–1.00). CHE was associated with depressive symptoms (OR = 2.23, 95% CI = 1.18–4.20). In cancer types with a low tendency to depression, continuous unemployment was associated with depressive symptoms (OR = 3.19, 95% CI = 1.12–9.06). In sensitivity analysis, changes in work, survivorship, and CHE were consistently associated with depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Cancer survivors who quit a job or continued unemployment were more likely to experience depressive symptoms. The findings of this study imply that assistance for cancer survivors to continue a job or return to employment, including adjustment of workload and hours, may be helpful. Psychological care may be crucial, particularly in the early stage of cancer survivorship. Furthermore, support may be needed to alleviate the burden of healthcare expenditure.
Is informedness the key? An empirical analysis of VET dropouts in Germany
Authors: Herrmann Lisa , Kühn Juliane
Published: October 2024

In 2022, one in four vocational education and training (VET) contracts resulted in premature termination—a potential sign of inefficiency in the training of urgently needed skilled professionals. This study focuses on the level of perceived informedness of trainees and its potential influence on dropout. This includes trainees’ perceived level of information about the characteristics and requirements of an occupation, which may result from various sources of information in the form of social contacts. We draw on theories from the field of career choice and job search to argue that a better level of informedness can reduce uncertainty and enable individuals to make better-informed decisions about their careers. With better informedness, there is a higher probability of finding a suitable match between a trainee and their chosen occupation, ultimately increasing their likelihood of job persistence. This should also lead to a lower probability of dropout among VETs. Using data from the National Educational Panel Study, starting cohort 4, we employed event history analysis. We show that good perceived informedness on the requirements of one’s vocational training and the perception of good school-based vocational preparation reduce the probability of dropping out. In contrast, good informedness about alternative training programs increases dropout risk. We also see that the distinction between closer or more distant groups of people from the social network (strong or weak ties) who provide information about training is not decisive.
Migratory strategies across an ecological barrier: is the answer blowing in the wind?
Authors: Bathrick Rosalyn E. , Johnson James A. , Ruthrauff Daniel R. , Snyder Rebekah , Stager Maria , Senner Nathan R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Ecological barriers can shape the movement strategies of migratory animals that navigate around or across them, creating migratory divides. Wind plays a large role in facilitating aerial migrations and can temporally or spatially change the challenge posed by an ecological barrier, with beneficial winds potentially converting a barrier into a corridor. Here, we explore the role wind plays in shaping initial southbound migration strategy among individuals breeding at two sites along an ecological barrier.

Methods

Using GPS satellite transmitters, we tracked the southbound migrations of Short-billed Dowitchers (Limnodromus griseus caurinus) from two breeding sites in Alaska to nonbreeding sites in coastal Mexico. The breeding sites were positioned in distinct regions along an ecological barrier – the Gulf of Alaska. We investigated potential differences in migratory timing, wind availability, and tailwind support en route across the Gulf of Alaska between individuals breeding at the two sites.

Results

Route choice and arrival timing to wintering sites differed markedly between the two breeding sites: individuals departing from the more westerly site left at the same time as those from further east but crossed the Gulf of Alaska farther west and arrived along the Pacific coast of Mexico an average of 19 days earlier than their counterparts. Dowitchers from both sites departed with slight tailwinds, but once aloft over the Gulf of Alaska, birds from the more westerly site had up to twelve times more tailwind assistance than birds from the more easterly one.

Conclusions

The distinct migration strategies and degree of wind assistance experienced by birds at these two breeding sites demonstrates how differences in wind availability along migratory routes can form the basis for intraspecific variation in migration strategies with potential carryover effects. Future changes in wind regimes may therefore interact with changes in habitat availability to influence migration patterns and migratory bird conservation.
Machine learning based prediction for bulk porosity and static elastic modulus of Yungang Grottoes sandstone
Authors: Zhang Ruoyu , Huang Jizhong , Cheng Yuan , Zhang Yue
Published: October 2024

In this work, four mainstream machine learning (ML) techniques are used to evaluate the bulk porosity and static elastic modulus of weathered Yungang Grottoes sandstone. Datasets are gathered from the experiments, which includes 432 groups effective experimental data including 8 inputs features. bulk porosity and static elastic modulus were considered as outputs to determine the weathering degrees of Yungang Grottoes sandstone. The 4 performance criteria were used to evaluate the ML models. Results demonstrate that the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is the best-fitted models for estimating the bulk porosity and static elastic modulus compared to Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Gaussian Process Regression (GPR). The accuracy of the trained model for static elastic modulus is slightly higher than that of bulk porosity. The GPR and ANN model can accurately predict the bulk porosity and static elastic modulus in training stages. The ANN with multi-hidden layers developed is competent with high degree of precision and generalization ability for bulk porosity and static elastic modulus compared to other selected regression-based ML models (MLR, SVR, and GPR). The coefficient of determinations of ANN in the range of (0.9537–0.9641) during the testing stages is more stable and higher than that of (0.8883–0.9453) other built ML models. The prediction efficiency of pretrained ANN model was well adjusted for the actual and forecast datasets at the training and testing stages, and the error range was no more than 0.7% and 0.15 GPa at both stages of prediction for bulk porosity and static elastic modulus respectively. And the ANN based static elastic modulus prediction model’s error proportions significantly decreased and were confined to a modest range between + 10% and − 10%. The proposed surrogate models are valid for the bulk porosity ranging from 7 to 14% and the static elastic modulus ranging from 0.7 to 1.4 Gpa, which can be utilized for the accurate and fast prediction of the weathering degrees of Yungang Grottoes sandstone.
Impact of environmental change on the indigenous belief system of the Bayso Community of Gidicho Island, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Fekadu Eshetu , Hebo Mamo , Emirie Gudaye
Published: October 2024

The environment and human existence are inextricably intertwined. Consequently, alterations in the environment’s natural characteristics can lead to severe resource shortages. This affects the institutions that have been crucial in shaping and guiding human lives and preserving the environment’s richness, as well as the endeavours of communities to sustain their livelihoods. This article examines the impact of environmental change on the indigenous belief system of the Bayso community of Gidicho Island, southern Ethiopia. Ethnographic data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and photographs. The results showed that environmental change on Gidicho Island and its environs has disrupted the socio-economic and cultural life of the Bayso, essentially their religious rituals. Thus, we advise the federal government to amend the country’s development policies that exacerbate environmental degradation and intervene to reduce the effects of poverty on the resource-use behaviours of its people.
Mechanical thrombectomy for internal carotid artery occlusion beyond a large paraclinoid aneurysm
Authors: Kobayashi Yuya , Kusano Yoshikazu , Watanabe Gen , Yamazaki Ken , Hirayama Shuichi , Kondo Yasufumi , Yamamoto Kanji , Sekijima Yoshiki
Published: October 2024

Background

With the launch of mechanical thrombectomy (MT), the prognosis of patients with cerebral infarction associated with large-vessel occlusion has improved. However, good outcomes are still not achieved in a few patients because of technical difficulties.

Case presentation

A 79-year-old Japanese woman was admitted with sudden-onset left hemiplegia. Tissue plasminogen activator was administered and MT was performed for internal carotid artery occlusion distal to a large paraclinoid aneurysm. Some technical difficulties were unique, including contrast agent retention, difficulty in guiding the system, and avoidance of rupture of the aneurysm. Here, we discuss the technical issues and solutions of the MT procedure employed in this case.

Conclusions

The procedure used in flow-diverter devices should be referenced and a stent-retrieving into an aspiration catheter with proximal balloon technique may be the most appropriate method.
Kefir: a fermented plethora of symbiotic microbiome and health
Authors: Tingirikari Jagan Mohan Rao , Sharma Anshul , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, a global shift in lifestyle and the ubiquitous consumption of junk foods have led to dysbiosis and other metabolic disorders significantly impacting human health. Recent studies performed on traditional foods have shown several health benefits and have gained the attention of the scientific community towards ethnic foods. In this regard, the consumption of ethnic foods with symbiotic properties is increasing gradually across the globe. Kefir is one such ethnic food with excellent functional properties. It is a unique traditional fermented drink comprised of kefir grains and probiotic microbes. Kefir grains are a gelatinous consortium of casein, milk solids coupled with yeasts, and lactobacilli-rich microbiota embedded in a poly-saccharide matrix. These components act as starters, initiating fermentation when introduced into fresh milk. This beverage bestows a myriad of symbiotic benefits, encompassing improved gut health and preventing several metabolic and other diseases through various biological mechanisms. Despite its millennia-long history, it has recently gained prominence due to emerging biotechnological and nutraceutical applications and researchers’ burgeoning fascination. In this comprehensive review, we endeavour to provide a meticulous elucidation of the most recent advancements concerning kefir, encompassing its production and processing methodologies for both dairy and water kefir. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate mechanisms underlying its functional properties and the health benefits of kefir as a functional fermented beverage.
The Impact of Minimal Sunlight Exposure on Bone Health: Insights From a Cohort Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
Authors: Kluijver Louisa G , Wagenmakers Margreet A E M , Wilson J H Paul , Langendonk Janneke G
Published: October 2024

Context

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare inherited metabolic disease, causing lifelong painful phototoxic reactions, minimal sunlight exposure, and vitamin D deficiency. Previous studies reported a high osteoporosis prevalence in EPP patients.

Objective

To identify those at risk for low bone mineral density (BMD) and assess which factors, including treatment with cholecalciferol and afamelanotide, improve BMD in EPP.

Methods

A longitudinal ambispective single-center cohort study. Data from patient files and two-time questionnaires from adult patients with EPP who underwent at least one dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan between 2012 and 2023 were used.

Results

BMD is low in EPP patients, with 82.7% of the 139 patients having a Z-score below 0 SD at baseline. Low BMD classified as osteopenia was found in 39.5%, and osteoporosis in 15.3%. There were 50 osteoporosis-related fractures in 34.2% of patients. Aging (odds ratio [OR] 1.08; CI, 1.03-1.12), persistent vitamin D deficiency (OR 1.11; 95% CI, 1.00-1.23) and a low body mass index (OR 0.91; 95% CI, 0.82-0.99) increased the odds of low BMD. Patients with a vitamin D deficiency (OR 5.51; 95% CI, 1.69-17.92) and no cholecalciferol at baseline (OR 0.22; 95% CI, 0.04-1.34) had the highest odds of improving their BMD. Afamelanotide did not improve BMD.

Conclusion

25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) status plays a crucial role in both preventing low BMD and improving BMD. EPP is a natural model for lack of sunlight exposure and vitamin D deficiency, underlining the importance of lifelong adequate vitamin D status for bone health in the general population.
Functions and Mechanism of Thyroid Hormone Receptor Action During Amphibian Development
Authors: Louis Emeric , Fu Liezhen , Shi Yun-Bo , Sachs Laurent M
Published: October 2024

Thyroid hormones and their receptors (TRs) play critical roles during vertebrate development. One of the most dramatic developmental processes regulated by thyroid hormones is frog metamorphosis, which mimics the postembryonic (perinatal) period in mammals. Here, we review some of the findings on the developmental functions of thyroid hormones and TRs as well as their associated mechanisms of action obtained from this model system. More than 2 decades ago, a dual function model was proposed for TR in anuran development. During larval development, unliganded receptors recruit corepressors to repress thyroid hormone response genes to prevent premature metamorphic changes. Subsequently, when thyroid hormone levels rise, liganded receptors recruit coactivators to activate thyroid hormone response genes, leading to metamorphic changes. Over the years, molecular and genetic approaches have provided strong support for this model and have shown that it is applicable to mammalian development as well as to understanding the diverse effects of thyroid hormones in normal physiology and diseases caused by thyroid hormone signaling dysfunction.
Laboratory Epistemologies
Authors: Boulboullé Jenny
Published: October 2024

In Laboratory Epistemologies: A Hands-On Perspective, Jenny Boulboullé examines the significance of hands-on experiences in contemporary life sciences laboratories. Addressing the relationship between contemplation and manipulation in epistemology, Boulboullé combines participant observations in molecular genetics labs and microbiological cleanrooms with a longue durée study of the history and philosophy of science. She radically rereads Descartes's key epistemological text Meditations on First Philosophy, reframing the philosopher as a hands-on knowledge maker. With this reading, Boulboullé subverts the pervasive modern conception of the disembodied knower and puts the hands-on experimenter at the heart of life sciences research. In so doing, she contributes a theoretical model for understanding how life processes on cellular and molecular levels are manually produced in today's techno-scientific spaces. By reassessing the Cartesian legacy and arguing that epistemology should be grounded in the standpoint of a hands-on practitioner, Boulboullé offers the philosophical and historical foundation to understand and study contemporary life sciences research as multisensory embodied practices.