bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sodium Taurocolate Cotransporting Polypeptide Mutation Associated Transaminase Elevation
Authors: Erensoy Karagül Zeynep Begüm , Özkeçeci Coskun Firat , Arslan Melike , Başaran Edibe Gözde , Ergen Yasin Maruf , Balam Necati
Published: May 2024

Familial hypercholanemia-2 is a condition caused by mutations in the human solute carrier family 10 member 1
(SLC10A1) gene, which results in the inability to transport conjugated bile salts from plasma to hepatocytes. This is due
to the sodium taurocholate cotransport polypeptide encoded by the gene being affected. Although the gene was first
described in 1994, there is limited knowledge on the clinical features of the disease. In the few reported cases, both clinical
and laboratory findings have varied. We reported a twelve-year-old girl was diagnosed with familial hypercholanemia-2
through a whole gene exome sequencing study. She was brought in with asymptomatic hypertransaminasemia, and
after comprehensive studies on etiology failed to detect the cause, genetic testing was done. The patient had no
clinically abnormal findings but had hypercholanemia (bile acid level 81.9 μmol/L) (fasting < 10 μmol/L, postprandial <
15 μmol/L) and hypertransaminasemia in laboratory examinations.
It is believed that the disease can present with a wide range of phenotypes, and laboratory findings may differ between
patients depending on the underlying genetic mutation or mechanisms that have not yet been identified. Therefore, it is
recommended to expand diagnostic genetic examinations in patients with hypertransaminasemia whose cause cannot
be determined
Diagnosis and management of acute aortic dissection in the emergency department
Authors: Reed Matthew J
Published: May 2024

Acute aortic dissection is often misdiagnosed as a result of its atypical presentations. It affects 4000 patients a year in the UK of all ages, not just older patients, with increasing numbers of cases expected in the future because of the ageing population. Dissection of the aortic wall leads to sudden, severe pain, and commonly end-organ symptoms which must be recognised. Acute aortic dissection can be challenging to diagnose in the emergency department because of the multitude of possible presentations and the need for selective testing with Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). Clinicians often miss acute aortic dissection because it is not considered in the differential diagnosis, and the challenge lies in identifying acute aortic dissection in a sea of complaints of chest, back and abdominal pain. There are several ways to improve diagnosis, including awareness campaigns, better education about patients in which to consider acute aortic dissection, and improved detection strategies including which patients should receive CTA. Clinical decision tools and biomarkers could help, but further research is required and is a research focus in emergency medicine. Once diagnosed, blood pressure control, analgesia and urgent surgery or transfer to enable this to occur with minimal delay is required.
What to do with foundation therapies for heart failure for patients with end-stage kidney disease on haemodialysis
Authors: Adenwalla Sherna F , Hull Katherine L , Graham-Brown Matthew PM
Published: May 2024

There is a significant burden of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality in the end-stage kidney disease population, driven by traditional and non-traditional risk factors. Despite its prevalence, heart failure is difficult to diagnose in the dialysis population due to overlapping clinical presentations, limitations of investigations, and the impact on the cardiorenal axis. ‘Foundation therapies’ are the key medications which improve patient outcomes in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and include beta-blockers, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. They are underutilised in the dialysis population due to the exclusion of chronic kidney disease patients from major trials and legitimate clinical concerns e.g. hyperkalaemia, intradialytic hypotension and residual kidney function preservation. A coordinated cardiorenal multidisciplinary approach can guide appropriate diagnostic considerations (biomarkers interpretation, imaging, addressing unique complications of kidney disease), optimise dialysis management (prescription length, frequency and ultrafiltration targets) and when at euvolaemia facilitate the stepwise introduction of appropriate foundation therapies.
General internal medicine: acquiring clinical acumen from bedside to front door with opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate training
Authors: Varughese George I
Published: May 2024

A general physician’s training and experience enables them to manage a variety of acute and chronic medical conditions with multi-system pathology, while specialising in one specific area of medicine.

In every illness there are other problems outside the specialty, requiring the wider expertise of the generalist as patients have multiple comorbidities and the multitude of disease pathology presenting are quite complex requiring a multi-faceted approach. The horizons of general internal medicine have broadened with a wide landscape of acute illnesses that are now being admitted under general medicine which is the path of least resistance. As we strive relentlessly while working on the ward at the bedside and in acute portals, we ought to remind ourselves of what are the attractions of general internal medicine and lead by example for the undergraduates and postgraduate doctors in training who see us as role models for doing clinical medicine, teaching, training and research.
ANÁLISE DE SITUAÇÃO DE SAÚDE DO MUNICÍPIO DE CRICIÚMA/SC UTILIZANDO INDICADORES DO PREVINE BRASIL
Authors: Zaneripe de Souza Nunes Rafael , Gonçalves de Lima João Natan , Oliveira Cardoso Maria Eduarda , Bauer Torriani Marcos , Monteiro Bettiol Leticia , Fernandes Gabriel Filipe , Bisognin Ceretta Luciane , Tuon Lisiane
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) possui como objetivo um atendimento integral, humanizado e de qualidade, sempre atenta às mudanças epidemiológicas e sociodemográficas da população. Diante da importância de conhecer o estado de saúde da população, o presente estudo baseou-se nos indicadores estipulados pelo Programa Previne Brasil, para avaliar a atual situação de saúde nas unidades básicas de saúde (UBS) de um município do extremo sul catarinense. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, descritivo e exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa. Para a coleta de dados, foram construídos um conjunto de questionários que abordavam os aspectos presentes no Programa Nacional de Melhoria do Acesso e da Qualidade da Atenção Básica (PMAQ) e no Programa Previne Brasil. Resultados: Foram consideradas elegíveis para a pesquisa 44 unidades básicas de saúde, e participaram da pesquisa 179 usuários e 45 profissionais de saúde. Conclusões: Destaca-se que a maior parte das unidades participantes da pesquisa contemplaram os sete indicadores do programa, no entanto, salienta-se que os serviços de saúde do município ainda estão em processo de adaptação aos novos indicadores de saúde, evidenciado nos percentuais encontrados em relação à vacina Haemophilus Influenzae (HIB), adicionada recentemente ao Programa Previne Brasil.
AVALIAÇÃO DOS EFEITOS DA PANDEMIA DA COVID-19 EM IDOSOS PRATICANTES DE ATIVIDADES FÍSICAS
Authors: Nobre Peniche Evelin Aline , Garcia Leal Fábia Évine , Nogueira Dias Souza Hildeana , Barbosa Bezerra Juciléia
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A pandemia tem alterado o estilo de vida da população. Objetivo: avaliar osefeitos da pandemia da COVID-19 em idosos frequentadores do Serviço Social do Comercio(SESC). Materiais e Métodos: Pesquisa quantitativa, desenvolvida com idosos com idadeigual ou maior que 60 anos. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistassemiestruturadas realizadas de forma remota via ligações telefônicas com 120 idosos,levantando informações relacionadas a dados sociodemográficos; saúde emocional;atividade física e saúde. Resultados: Mais de 50% dos participantes praticaram o isolamentosocial e afirmou que a pandemia influenciou no seu estado emocional. Houve associaçãoentre atividade física e horas sentadas por dia. Conclusão: Conforme os resultados, apandemia influenciou no aspecto emocional dos participantes e quem praticou atividadefísica permaneceu menos tempo sentado.
A LIDERANÇA DO ENFERMEIRO EM UNIDADES DE TERAPIA INTENSIVA: revisão integrativa
Authors: Szlyjan Kremer Fernanda , Camargo Chagas Brenda , Larissa Dias Müller de Souza Andressa
Published: May 2024

A liderança é fator primordial para um trabalho de qualidade e uma ação direcionada da enfermagem na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. É preciso que o líder reúna competências e habilidades técnicas e relacionais para que seu trabalho tenha maior qualidade. Objetivo: Identificar como se dá a liderança do enfermeiro em unidades de terapia intensiva segundo a literatura. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura para identificar o perfil de liderança do enfermeiro na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Os estudos incluídos na amostra foram aqueles publicados entre janeiro de 2018 e agosto de 2022, indexados na PubMed, BVS e LILACS, que respondessem à pergunta norteadora. Resultados e Conclusões: De forma crítica e reflexiva, cada uma das pesquisas contribui de maneira distinta para o processo de construção e reforço da liderança do enfermeiro na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Aspectos como a liderança ativa, a organização dos processos, a especialidade para pacientes com alta complexidade e a harmonização do ambiente de Unidade de Terapia Intensiva estão entre os pontos observados pelos autores. O estudo possibilitará pensar que uma liderança ativa promove continuidade, ordenação, confiabilidade e segurança, bem como será capaz de trazer enfoque para ações multiprofissionais, interdisciplinares, além de focar na qualidade assistencial de uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva.
TRADUÇÃO DO CONHECIMENTO NO CUIDADO ÀS DOENÇAS CRÔNICAS NÃO TRANSMISSÍVEIS: ESTUDO PILOTO
Authors: Suênia Bezerra da Silva Rávila , Carlos Fernandes Junior Gilson , Aryelly Araújo Dantas Loren , Mayara Moura Miranda Margarida , Queiroz de Medeiros Anna Cecília , Mattos Sureira Thaiz , Gomes Magalhães Adriana
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A Tradução do Conhecimento (TC) é caracterizada como resultante de um processo participativo e dinâmico, favorece o fortalecimento dos sistemas de saúde e favorecendo melhorias na qualidade da saúde da população. Objetivo: avaliar os conhecimentos sobre Tradução do Conhecimento na perspectiva dos profissionais da atenção básica, voltada aos cuidados a indivíduos com doenças crônicas não transmissíveis. Método: Trata-se de um estudo piloto, observacional, descritivo e transversal, apresentando uma abordagem quantitativa. Para a coleta de dados utilizou-se um questionário semiestruturado, após a coleta os dados foram analisados por meio do software de domínio público R™. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 20 profissionais de saúde atuantes na atenção básica em Santa Cruz- RN, a maioria sendo do sexo feminino com 55%, onde 40% afirmaram já ter ouvido falar em TC. Foi possível perceber que 92% dos profissionais afirmaram não receber apoio da gestão em participar de capacitações em TC e 90% não receberam apoio para realizar capacitações com enfoque nas DCNTs. Conclusão: A TC é um importante instrumento que pode auxiliar de forma eficaz e benéfica aos profissionais atuantes na atenção básica.
FERRAMENTAS DE EDUCAÇÃO PERMANENTES EM TEMPOS DE PANDEMIA DA COVID-19
Authors: De Lima Jessyellen Pereira , Suênia Bezerra da Silva Rávila , Márcia Resende e Almeida Santos Cunha Sabrina , Driely Silva de Moura Laedja
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A educação permanente em saúde compõe diferentes formações, propondo fortalecer as equipes e gerando maior qualidade no trabalho. O foco no cotidiano faz com que o profissional de saúde esteja sempre em busca de melhorias nas práticas e na melhor resolução dos problemas. Com o advento da pandemia da covid-19, houve necessidade de mudanças na organização do atendimento no âmbito do sistema único de saúde, resultando necessidades do desenvolvimento de ações de educação permanente direcionando o cuidado ao paciente e promovendo prevenção a saúde do trabalhador. Objetivo: Identificar as estratégias utilizadas durante a pandemia da covid-19 para efetuação das ações de educação permanente em Saúde. Método: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura através da consulta de dados nas plataformas online: Scielo, Lilacs e Medline. Resultados: Foram encontrados 58 artigos, dos quais foram excluídos os que não respondiam ao objetivo de estudo (30 artigos), contidos em mais de uma plataforma (6 artigos), e (2 artigos) não permitiam o acesso gratuito. Conclusão: A pandemia da Covid-19 trouxe desafios importantes e a capacidade de respostas às novas demandas. Assim, a educação permanente se tornou fundamental, de capacitação e instrumentalização sendo exemplos mais utilizados para isso as ferramentas tecnológicas e interativas.
PERCEPÇÕES DE USUÁRIOS DA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA SOBRE A AMBIÊNCIA DA SALA DE ESPERA
Authors: Hafemann Etienne Alessandra , Roberto de Oliveira Nunes Carlos
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A sala de espera é um ambiente de permanência relativamente longa nos serviços de saúde. Sua estrutura pode impactar sobre os níveis de bem-estar de usuários e acompanhantes. O objetivo do presente estudo foi conhecer as percepções de usuários de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde de Blumenau/Santa Catarina sobre a sala de espera. A estrutura e a percepção dos usuários foram comparadas às diretrizes do Manual de Estrutura Física das Unidades Básicas de Saúde. Materiais e métodos: Um instrumento adaptado de estudos foi aplicado a 80 usuários em espera de atendimento. Resultados: Entre estes: 93,75% consideraram importante um espaço para recreação de crianças; 42,5% afirmaram comparecer acompanhados de crianças ou bebês à UBS; 97,5% afirmaram haver locais para sentar-se, porém 70% consideraram a quantidade de assentos insuficiente. Quanto ao tempo de espera: 17,5% classificaram como bom; 53,75% como razoável e 28,75% como ruim. Discussão: As condições da sala de espera atendem ao Manual de Estrutura Física das Unidades Básicas de Saúde nos aspectos estruturais, entretanto os usuários percebem necessidades estruturais que não constam nesse instrumento normativo. Conclusão: Na dimensão dos processos há necessidade de um melhor aproveitamento da sala de espera com a proposição de atividades que contribuem para o acolhimento e humanização.
Correlation of diabetic renal hypoperfusion with microvascular responses of the skeletal muscle: a rat model study using diffuse correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Nakabayashi Mikie , Tanabe Jun , Ogura Yuji , Ichinose Masashi , Shibagaki Yugo , Kamijo-Ikemori Atsuko , Ono Yumie
Published: May 2024

Using diffuse correlation spectroscopy, we assessed the renal blood flow and thigh muscle microvascular responses in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. The blood flow index at the renal surface decreased significantly with arterial clamping, cardiac extirpation, and the progression of diabetic endothelial dysfunction. Renal blood flow measured in diabetic and nondiabetic rats also showed a significant correlation with the reactive hyperemic response of the thigh muscle. These results suggest shared microcirculatory dysfunction in the kidney and skeletal muscle and support endothelial responses in the skeletal muscle as a potential noninvasive biomarker of renal hypoperfusion.
Cost dynamics of converged optical-wireless networks: enabling low-latency xRANs through a reconfigurable hybrid split
Authors: Nooruzzaman Md. , Fernando Xavier
Published: May 2024

Future 6G and beyond wireless networks are anticipated to be highly versatile, accommodating a wide range of services, from ultra-low-latency applications like autonomous vehicles and extended reality to enhanced mobile broadband and massive connectivity for the Internet of Things. In tackling this, xRANs (cloud/virtualized/open radio access networks) encounter significant challenges, including automation, interoperability, scalability, reconfigurability, and standardization, within crosshaul (comprising fronthaul, midhaul, and backhaul) networks. Therefore, the development of programmable converged optical-wireless networks with exceptional flexibility is crucial. This study concentrates on the design of integrated optical and wireless networks to achieve the reconfigurability necessary for automation and to fulfill diverse latency requirements. Initially, we analyze the latency contributions from different network segments and traffic factors in the xRAN, followed by a comprehensive examination of the associated cost dynamics. Subsequently, we investigate the feasibility of integrating high-layer and low-layer splits within the same network to achieve different latency levels. Finally, our study delves into the relationship between latency and cost for converged optical-wireless networks with varying mixed split scenarios and throughput levels. Overall, this article aims to assist network planners in making well-informed decisions that balance throughput performance, cost, and latency requirements in upcoming network deployments.
Centralized full-duplex seamless photonic mmW fronthaul link based on phase modulation
Authors: Bohata J. , Botella-Campos M. , Mora J. , Ortega B. , Zvánovec S.
Published: May 2024

We experimentally demonstrate a photonic full-duplex seamless millimeter wave fronthaul link, based on phase modulation, to address the challenges arising from the increased demands on the mobile fronthaul capacity and network densification toward 5G and beyond. The proposed system relies on phase modulation techniques, implemented at both the central office (CO) and remote radio head (RRH), to achieve optical frequency up-conversion of the downlink (DL) signal and optical modulation of the down-converted uplink (UL) signal. Furthermore, our approach includes the frequency down-conversion of the 40 GHz UL signal through an optically generated local oscillator (LO) signal in the RRH, while the laser employed for UL data transmission is situated at the CO, simplifying the remote site’s equipment. An optical waveshaper serves here as a programmable optical filter to provide signals for DL frequency up-conversion, LO generation, and also the optical carrier for UL transmission. In our experimental validation, we have tested our proposed system using 64-quadrature amplitude modulation (64-QAM) for the DL at a frequency of 41 GHz and quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) for the UL at a frequency of 40 GHz. Notably, our results demonstrate the successful transmission of up to 200 MHz bandwidth for both digital modulation schemes, all while maintaining the error vector magnitude (EVM) well below the specified threshold. Additionally, when employing 5G new radio (NR) orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) signals with the same modulation formats for both links in full-duplex communication, we achieved EVM values as low as 5.2% for the DL and 6.9% for the UL, further highlighting the efficacy and robustness of our proposed solution.
Tunable targeted single-photon routing in a waveguide-QED structure containing a time-modulated two-level atom
Authors: Lan Yang , Li Haozhen , Zeng Ran , Zhang Xiaopei , Hu Miao , Xu Mengmeng , Zhou Xuefang , Li Qiliang
Published: May 2024

Single-photon routing between two one-dimensional waveguides mediated by a single-mode cavity embedded with a time-modulated two-level atom is investigated. Two configurations, where the single photon is incident from an infinite or semi-infinite waveguide, are considered. Using the analytical expressions of the single-photon scattering amplitudes, the transmission behaviors in the two waveguides are discussed. The results show that the time modulation of the atomic frequency enables a dynamically tunable quantum router. A single photon with different frequencies can be routed dynamically from the incident waveguide to the other by properly manipulating the amplitude-to-frequency ratio of the atom. The routing efficiency can be improved to approach 100% by terminating the incident waveguide. In the semi-waveguide configuration, the routing behaviors controlled by the quantum coherent feedback are also investigated. The influence of the phase shifts introduced by the terminated waveguide on the routing capability and the conditions for perfect single-photon routing are discussed in detail. A frequency tunable targeted single-photon router can even be realized with the help of chiral coupling. These results may be beneficial to the photon control in a quantum network based on time-modulated quantum nodes.
Deterministic preparation of optical qubits with coherent feedback control
Authors: Rouillard Amy , Permaul Tanita , Goyal Sandeep K. , Konrad Thomas
Published: May 2024

We propose a class of preparation schemes for orbital angular momentum and polarization qubits carried by single photons or classical states of light based on coherent feedback control by an ancillary degree of freedom of light. The preparation methods use linear optics and include the transcription of an arbitrary polarization state onto a two-level OAM system (swap) for arbitrary OAM values ±ℓ within a light beam, i.e., without a spatial interferometer. The preparations can be carried out with unit efficiency independent from the potentially unknown initial state of the system. The swap scheme also allows us to implement arbitrary unitary gates on OAM qubits (±ℓ) by reducing them to polarization gates. In addition, we show how to translate measurement-based qubit control channels into coherent feedback schemes for optical implementation.
Effect of the correlated color temperature of a phosphor-converted LED on indoor visible light communication
Authors: Zhang Diyuan , Chen Jian , Cai Anliang , Yu Changyuan
Published: May 2024

Correlated color temperature (CCT) is an important parameter of the phosphor-converted LED (PC-LED); international standards specify its range in different scenarios. However, little has been done to investigate the effect of CCT on the performance of visible light communication (VLC). In this paper, we propose an analytical model for the transmission performance of an LED VLC system based on the dual components of blue and yellow light from the luminescence mechanism of the PC-LED. On this basis, the effects of CCT on the PC-LED’s input current and output optical power between the dual components are analyzed. The simulation results show that the increase of CCT expands the modulation bandwidth of the PC-LED, and the trend of the BER with CCT is also related to the transmission data rate. In addition, the maximum data rate of the PC-LED with CCT from 2700 K to 6500 K under a certain transmission distance is also simulated in this paper.
The tuning of tuning: How adaptation influences single cell information transfer
Authors: Zeldenrust Fleur , Calcini Niccolò , Yan Xuan , Bijlsma Ate , Celikel Tansu
Published: May 2024

Sensory neurons reconstruct the world from action potentials (spikes) impinging on them. To effectively transfer information about the stimulus to the next processing level, a neuron needs to be able to adapt its working range to the properties of the stimulus. Here, we focus on the intrinsic neural properties that influence information transfer in cortical neurons and how tightly their properties need to be tuned to the stimulus statistics for them to be effective. We start by measuring the intrinsic information encoding properties of putative excitatory and inhibitory neurons in L2/3 of the mouse barrel cortex. Excitatory neurons show high thresholds and strong adaptation, making them fire sparsely and resulting in a strong compression of information, whereas inhibitory neurons that favour fast spiking transfer more information. Next, we turn to computational modelling and ask how two properties influence information transfer: 1) spike-frequency adaptation and 2) the shape of the IV-curve. We find that a subthreshold (but not threshold) adaptation, the ‘h-current’, and a properly tuned leak conductance can increase the information transfer of a neuron, whereas threshold adaptation can increase its working range. Finally, we verify the effect of the IV-curve slope in our experimental recordings and show that excitatory neurons form a more heterogeneous population than inhibitory neurons. These relationships between intrinsic neural features and neural coding that had not been quantified before will aid computational, theoretical and systems neuroscientists in understanding how neuronal populations can alter their coding properties, such as through the impact of neuromodulators. Why the variability of intrinsic properties of excitatory neurons is larger than that of inhibitory ones is an exciting question, for which future research is needed.
Network representation of multicellular activity in pancreatic islets: Technical considerations for functional connectivity analysis
Authors: Šterk Marko , Zhang Yaowen , Pohorec Viljem , Leitgeb Eva Paradiž , Dolenšek Jurij , Benninger Richard K. P. , Stožer Andraž , Kravets Vira , Gosak Marko
Published: May 2024

Within the islets of Langerhans, beta cells orchestrate synchronized insulin secretion, a pivotal aspect of metabolic homeostasis. Despite the inherent heterogeneity and multimodal activity of individual cells, intercellular coupling acts as a homogenizing force, enabling coordinated responses through the propagation of intercellular waves. Disruptions in this coordination are implicated in irregular insulin secretion, a hallmark of diabetes. Recently, innovative approaches, such as integrating multicellular calcium imaging with network analysis, have emerged for a quantitative assessment of the cellular activity in islets. However, different groups use distinct experimental preparations, microscopic techniques, apply different methods to process the measured signals and use various methods to derive functional connectivity patterns. This makes comparisons between findings and their integration into a bigger picture difficult and has led to disputes in functional connectivity interpretations. To address these issues, we present here a systematic analysis of how different approaches influence the network representation of islet activity. Our findings show that the choice of methods used to construct networks is not crucial, although care is needed when combining data from different islets. Conversely, the conclusions drawn from network analysis can be heavily affected by the pre-processing of the time series, the type of the oscillatory component in the signals, and by the experimental preparation. Our tutorial-like investigation aims to resolve interpretational issues, reconcile conflicting views, advance functional implications, and encourage researchers to adopt connectivity analysis. As we conclude, we outline challenges for future research, emphasizing the broader applicability of our conclusions to other tissues exhibiting complex multicellular dynamics.
Financial hardship among patients suffering from neglected tropical diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis of global literature
Authors: Patikorn Chanthawat , Cho Jeong-Yeon , Higashi Joshua , Huang Xiao Xian , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) mainly affect underprivileged populations, potentially resulting in catastrophic health spending (CHS) and impoverishment from out-of-pocket (OOP) costs. This systematic review aimed to summarize the financial hardship caused by NTDs.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, EconLit, OpenGrey, and EBSCO Open Dissertations, for articles reporting financial hardship caused by NTDs from database inception to January 1, 2023. We summarized the study findings and methodological characteristics. Meta-analyses were performed to pool the prevalence of CHS. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic.

Results

Ten out of 1,768 studies were included, assessing CHS (n = 10) and impoverishment (n = 1) among 2,761 patients with six NTDs (Buruli ulcer, chikungunya, dengue, visceral leishmaniasis, leprosy, and lymphatic filariasis). CHS was defined differently across studies. Prevalence of CHS due to OOP costs was relatively low among patients with leprosy (0.0–11.0%), dengue (12.5%), and lymphatic filariasis (0.0–23.0%), and relatively high among patients with Buruli ulcers (45.6%). Prevalence of CHS varied widely among patients with chikungunya (11.9–99.3%) and visceral leishmaniasis (24.6–91.8%). Meta-analysis showed that the pooled prevalence of CHS due to OOP costs of visceral leishmaniasis was 73% (95% CI; 65–80%, n = 2, I2 = 0.00%). Costs of visceral leishmaniasis impoverished 20–26% of the 61 households investigated, depending on the costs captured. The reported costs did not capture the financial burden hidden by the abandonment of seeking healthcare.

Conclusion

NTDs lead to a substantial number of households facing financial hardship. However, financial hardship caused by NTDs was not comprehensively evaluated in the literature. To develop evidence-informed strategies to minimize the financial hardship caused by NTDs, studies should evaluate the factors contributing to financial hardship across household characteristics, disease stages, and treatment-seeking behaviors.
Influence of hydrometeorological risk factors on child diarrhea and enteropathogens in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Grembi Jessica A. , Nguyen Anna T. , Riviere Marie , Heitmann Gabriella Barratt , Patil Arusha , Athni Tejas S. , Djajadi Stephanie , Ercumen Ayse , Lin Audrie , Crider Yoshika , Mertens Andrew , Karim Md Abdul , Islam Md Ohedul , Miah Rana , Famida Syeda L. , Hossen Md Saheen , Mutsuddi Palash , Ali Shahjahan , Rahman Md Ziaur , Hussain Zahir , Shoab Abul K. , Haque Rashidul , Rahman Mahbubur , Unicomb Leanne , Luby Stephen P. , Arnold Benjamin F. , Bennett Adam , Benjamin-Chung Jade
Published: May 2024

Background

A number of studies have detected relationships between weather and diarrhea. Few have investigated associations with specific enteric pathogens. Understanding pathogen-specific relationships with weather is crucial to inform public health in low-resource settings that are especially vulnerable to climate change.

Objectives

Our objectives were to identify weather and environmental risk factors associated with diarrhea and enteropathogen prevalence in young children in rural Bangladesh, a population with high diarrheal disease burden and vulnerability to weather shifts under climate change.

Methods

We matched temperature, precipitation, surface water, and humidity data to observational longitudinal data from a cluster-randomized trial that measured diarrhea and enteropathogen prevalence in children 6 months-5.5 years from 2012–2016. We fit generalized additive mixed models with cubic regression splines and restricted maximum likelihood estimation for smoothing parameters.

Results

Comparing weeks with 30°C versus 15°C average temperature, prevalence was 3.5% higher for diarrhea, 7.3% higher for Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coli(STEC), 17.3% higher for enterotoxigenicE.coli(ETEC), and 8.0% higher forCryptosporidium. Above-median weekly precipitation (median: 13mm; range: 0-396mm) was associated with 29% higher diarrhea (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.29, 95% CI 1.07, 1.55); higherCryptosporidium, ETEC, STEC,Shigella,Campylobacter,Aeromonas, and adenovirus 40/41; and lowerGiardia, sapovirus, and norovirus prevalence. Other associations were weak or null.

Discussion

Higher temperatures and precipitation were associated with higher prevalence of diarrhea and multiple enteropathogens; higher precipitation was associated with lower prevalence of some enteric viruses. Our findings emphasize the heterogeneity of the relationships between hydrometeorological variables and specific enteropathogens, which can be masked when looking at composite measures like all-cause diarrhea. Our results suggest that preventive interventions targeted to reduce enteropathogens just before and during the rainy season may more effectively reduce child diarrhea and enteric pathogen carriage in rural Bangladesh and in settings with similar meteorological characteristics, infrastructure, and enteropathogen transmission.
Great genetic diversity of vector-borne bacteria and protozoan in wild rodents from Guangxi, China
Authors: Xue Jing , Chen Si-Si , Jian Rui , Chen Guo-Qing , Qin Xincheng , Lu Miao , Wang Wen , Xie Guang-Cheng , Du Luanying , Li Kun , Guo Wen-Ping
Published: May 2024

Background

Rodents are recognized as the hosts of many vector-borne bacteria and protozoan parasites and play an important role in their transmission and maintenance. Intensive studies have focused on their infections in vectors, especially in ticks, however, vector-borne bacterial and protozoan infections in rodents are poorly understood although human cases presenting with fever may due to their infection have been found.

Methods

From May to October 2019, 192 wild rodents were trapped in wild environment of Guangxi Province, and the spleen samples were collected to reveal the presence of vector-borne bacterial and protozoan infections in them. The microorganisms in rodents were identified by detecting their DNA using (semi-)nested PCR. All the PCR products of the expected size were subjected to sequencing, and then analyzed by BLASTn. Furthermore, all the recovered sequences were subjected to nucleotide identity and phylogenetic analyses.

Results

As a result, 192 rodents representing seven species were captured, and Bandicota indica were the dominant species, followed by Rattus andamanensis. Based on the (semi-)nested PCR, our results suggested that Anaplasma bovis, Anaplasma capra, Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, “Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis”, “Candidatus E. hainanensis”, “Candidatus E. zunyiensis”, three uncultured Ehrlichia spp., Bartonella coopersplainsensis, Bartonella tribocorum, Bartonella rattimassiliensis, Bartonella silvatica, two uncultured Bartonella spp., Babesia microti and diverse Hepatozoon were identified in six rodent species. More importantly, six species (including two Anaplasma, two Bartonella, “Ca. N. mikurensis” and Bab. microti) are zoonotic pathogens except Anaplasma bovis and Anaplasma ovis with zoonotic potential. Furthermore, dual infection was observed between different microorganisms, and the most common type of co-infection is between “Ca. N. mikurensis” and other microorganisms. Additionally, potential novel Bartonella species and Hepatozoon species demonstrated the presence of more diverse rodent-associated Bartonella and Hepatozoon.

Conclusions

The results in this work indicated great genetic diversity of vector-borne infections in wild rodents, and highlighted the potential risk of human pathogens transmitted from rodents to humans through vectors.
Fusion of histone variants to Cas9 suppresses non-homologous end joining
Authors: Kato-Inui Tomoko , Takahashi Gou , Ono Terumi , Miyaoka Yuichiro
Published: May 2024

As a versatile genome editing tool, the CRISPR-Cas9 system induces DNA double-strand breaks at targeted sites to activate mainly two DNA repair pathways: HDR which allows precise editing via recombination with a homologous template DNA, and NHEJ which connects two ends of the broken DNA, which is often accompanied by random insertions and deletions. Therefore, how to enhance HDR while suppressing NHEJ is a key to successful applications that require precise genome editing. Histones are small proteins with a lot of basic amino acids that generate electrostatic affinity to DNA. Since H2A.X is involved in DNA repair processes, we fused H2A.X to Cas9 and found that this fusion protein could improve the HDR/NHEJ ratio by suppressing NHEJ. As various post-translational modifications of H2A.X play roles in the regulation of DNA repair, we also fused H2A.X mimicry variants to replicate these post-translational modifications including phosphorylation, methylation, and acetylation. However, none of them were effective to improve the HDR/NHEJ ratio. We further fused other histone variants to Cas9 and found that H2A.1 suppressed NHEJ better than H2A.X. Thus, the fusion of histone variants to Cas9 is a promising option to enhance precise genome editing.
A multifaceted suite of metrics for comparative myoelectric prosthesis controller research
Authors: Williams Heather E. , Shehata Ahmed W. , Cheng Kodi Y. , Hebert Jacqueline S. , Pilarski Patrick M.
Published: May 2024

Upper limb robotic (myoelectric) prostheses are technologically advanced, but challenging to use. In response, substantial research is being done to develop person-specific prosthesis controllers that can predict a user’s intended movements. Most studies that test and compare new controllers rely on simple assessment measures such as task scores (e.g., number of objects moved across a barrier) or duration-based measures (e.g., overall task completion time). These assessment measures, however, fail to capture valuable details about: the quality of device arm movements; whether these movements match users’ intentions; the timing of specific wrist and hand control functions; and users’ opinions regarding overall device reliability and controller training requirements. In this work, we present a comprehensive and novel suite of myoelectric prosthesis control evaluation metrics that better facilitates analysis of device movement details—spanning measures of task performance, control characteristics, and user experience. As a case example of their use and research viability, we applied these metrics in real-time control experimentation. Here, eight participants without upper limb impairment compared device control offered by a deep learning-based controller (recurrent convolutional neural network-based classification with transfer learning, or RCNN-TL) to that of a commonly used controller (linear discriminant analysis, or LDA). The participants wore a simulated prosthesis and performed complex functional tasks across multiple limb positions. Analysis resulting from our suite of metrics identified 16 instances of a user-facing problem known as the “limb position effect”. We determined that RCNN-TL performed the same as or significantly better than LDA in four such problem instances. We also confirmed that transfer learning can minimize user training burden. Overall, this study contributes a multifaceted new suite of control evaluation metrics, along with a guide to their application, for use in research and testing of myoelectric controllers today, and potentially for use in broader rehabilitation technologies of the future.
Extralimital terrestrials: A reassessment of range limits in Alaska’s land mammals
Authors: Baltensperger Andrew P. , Lanier Hayley C. , Olson Link E.
Published: May 2024

Understanding and mitigating the effects of anthropogenic climate change on species distributions requires the ability to track range shifts over time. This is particularly true for species occupying high-latitude regions, which are experiencing more extreme climate change than the rest of the world. In North America, the geographic ranges of many mammals reach their northernmost extent in Alaska, positioning this region at the leading edge of climate-induced distribution change. Over a decade has elapsed since the publication of the last spatial assessments of terrestrial mammals in the state. We compared public occurrence records against commonly referenced range maps to evaluate potential extralimital records and develop repeatable baseline range maps. We compared occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility for 61 terrestrial mammal species native to mainland Alaska against a variety of range estimates (International Union for Conservation of Nature, Alaska Gap Analysis Project, and the published literature). We mapped extralimital records and calculated proportions of occurrences encompassed by range extents, measured mean direction and distance to prior range margins, evaluated predictive accuracy of published species models, and highlighted observations on federal lands in Alaska. Range comparisons identified 6,848 extralimital records for 39 of 61 (63.9%) terrestrial mainland Alaskan species. On average, 95.5% of Alaska Gap Analysis Project occurrence records and ranges were deemed accurate (i.e., > 90.0% correct) for 31 of 37 species, but overestimated extents for 13 species. The International Union for Conservation of Nature range maps encompassed 68.1% of occurrence records and were > 90% accurate for 17 of 39 species. Extralimital records represent either improved sampling and digitization or actual geographic range expansions. Here we provide new data-driven range maps, update standards for the archiving of museum-quality locational records and offer recommendations for mapping range changes for monitoring and conservation.
Complex genetic architecture of the chicken Growth1 QTL region
Authors: Ou Jen-Hsiang , Rönneburg Tilman , Carlborg Örjan , Honaker Christa Ferst , Siegel Paul B. , Rubin Carl-Johan
Published: May 2024

The genetic complexity of polygenic traits represents a captivating and intricate facet of biological inheritance. Unlike Mendelian traits controlled by a single gene, polygenic traits are influenced by multiple genetic loci, each exerting a modest effect on the trait. This cumulative impact of numerous genes, interactions among them, environmental factors, and epigenetic modifications results in a multifaceted architecture of genetic contributions to complex traits. Given the well-characterized genome, diverse traits, and range of genetic resources, chicken (Gallus gallus) was employed as a model organism to dissect the intricate genetic makeup of a previously identified major Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) for body weight on chromosome 1. A multigenerational advanced intercross line (AIL) of 3215 chickens whose genomes had been sequenced to an average of 0.4x was analyzed using genome-wide association study (GWAS) and variance-heterogeneity GWAS (vGWAS) to identify markers associated with 8-week body weight. Additionally, epistatic interactions were studied using the natural and orthogonal interaction (NOIA) model. Six genetic modules, two from GWAS and four from vGWAS, were strongly associated with the studied trait. We found evidence of both additive- and non-additive interactions between these modules and constructed a putative local epistasis network for the region. Our screens for functional alleles revealed a missense variant in the gene ribonuclease H2 subunit B (RNASEH2B), which has previously been associated with growth-related traits in chickens and Darwin’s finches. In addition, one of the most strongly associated SNPs identified is located in a non-coding region upstream of the long non-coding RNA, ENSGALG00000053256, previously suggested as a candidate gene for regulating chicken body weight. By studying large numbers of individuals from a family material using approaches to capture both additive and non-additive effects, this study advances our understanding of genetic complexities in a highly polygenic trait and has practical implications for poultry breeding and agriculture.
Determinants of severe maternal outcome in Keren hospital, Eritrea: An unmatched case-control study
Authors: Zewde Henos Kiflom
Published: May 2024

Background

In the past few decades, several studies on the determinants and risk factors of severe maternal outcome (SMO) have been conducted in various developing countries. Even though the rate of maternal mortality in Eritrea is among the highest in the world, little is known regarding the determinants of SMO in the country. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify determinants of SMO among women admitted to Keren Provincial Referral Hospital.

Methods

A facility based unmatched case-control study was conducted in Keren Hospital. Women who encountered SMO event from January 2018 to December 2020 were identified retrospectively from medical records using the sub-Saharan Africa maternal near miss (MNM) data abstraction tool. For each case of SMO, two women with obstetric complication who failed to meet the sub-Saharan MNM criteria were included as controls. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed using SPSS version-22 to identify factors associated with SMO.

Results

In this study, 701 cases of SMO and 1,402 controls were included. The following factors were independently associated with SMO: not attending ANC follow up (AOR: 4.53; CI: 3.15–6.53), caesarean section in the current pregnancy (AOR: 3.75; CI: 2.69–5.24), referral from lower level facilities (AOR: 11.8; CI: 9.1–15.32), residing more than 30 kilometers away from the hospital (AOR: 2.97; CI: 2.29–3.85), history of anemia (AOR: 2.36; CI: 1.83–3.03), and previous caesarean section (AOR: 3.49; CI: 2.17–5.62).

Conclusion

In this study, lack of ANC follow up, caesarean section in the current pregnancy, referral from lower facilities, distance from nearest health facility, history of anaemia and previous caesarean section were associated with SMO. Thus, improved transportation facilities, robust referral protocol and equitable distribution of emergency facilities can play vital role in reducing SMO in the hospital.
Non-Cartesian 3D-SPARKLING vs Cartesian 3D-EPI encoding schemes for functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 7 Tesla
Authors: Amor Zaineb , Ciuciu Philippe , G. R. Chaithya , Daval-Frérot Guillaume , Mauconduit Franck , Thirion Bertrand , Vignaud Alexandre
Published: May 2024

The quest for higher spatial and/or temporal resolution in functional MRI (fMRI) while preserving a sufficient temporal signal-to-noise ratio (tSNR) has generated a tremendous amount of methodological contributions in the last decade ranging from Cartesian vs. non-Cartesian readouts, 2D vs. 3D acquisition strategies, parallel imaging and/or compressed sensing (CS) accelerations and simultaneous multi-slice acquisitions to cite a few. In this paper, we investigate the use of a finely tuned version of 3D-SPARKLING. This is a non-Cartesian CS-based acquisition technique for high spatial resolution whole-brain fMRI. We compare it to state-of-the-art Cartesian 3D-EPI during both a retinotopic mapping paradigm and resting-state acquisitions at 1mm3 (isotropic spatial resolution). This study involves six healthy volunteers and both acquisition sequences were run on each individual in a randomly-balanced order across subjects. The performances of both acquisition techniques are compared to each other in regards to tSNR, sensitivity to the BOLD effect and spatial specificity. Our findings reveal that 3D-SPARKLING has a higher tSNR than 3D-EPI, an improved sensitivity to detect the BOLD contrast in the gray matter, and an improved spatial specificity. Compared to 3D-EPI, 3D-SPARKLING yields, on average, 7% more activated voxels in the gray matter relative to the total number of activated voxels.