bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partnering for prevention in under-resourced communities: a randomized pilot study
Authors: Caldwell Angela R. , Terhorst Lauren , Krall Jodi S , Thum Danielle W. , Uman Hana R. , Dodd Judy L. , Haus Emily E. , Bendixen Roxanna M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Promoting health early in life is crucial to obesity prevention, but families in under-resourced communities face barriers to establishing healthy routines. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility and preliminary effects of two dietary interventions for families in under-resourced communities.

Methods

Fifty-one caregivers of young children (aged 0–5 years) were recruited from six community centers located in heavily populated neighborhoods with high poverty rates (i.e., under-resourced neighborhoods) in southwestern Pennsylvania. A longitudinal pilot study was conducted to examine feasibility as a primary outcome and change in dietary variety (24-Hour Recall), risk of nutritional problems (Nutrition Screen for Every Preschooler), and parenting stress (Parenting Stress Index-Short Form) over time and between groups as secondary outcomes. Six sites were randomized to receive Cooking Matters for Parents, Mealtime PREP, or a combined program (Cooking Matters + Mealtime PREP). Cooking Matters for Parents is a six-week nutrition education program designed to help parents of young children plan and cook healthy meals on a budget. Mealtime PREP is a six-week routine-based intervention designed to promote healthy dietary variety among young children. We predicted that we could feasibly deliver both programs and the combined program as determined by a priori benchmarks (ability to recruit ≥ 8 participants per site; achieving an 80% intervention completion rate; being rated as an acceptable intervention by 95% of intervention completers, and treatment fidelity of ≥ 90%). Descriptive statistics and individual growth models were used to analyze data.

Results

Of 51 recruited participants, 49 were eligible, randomized by site, and included in the analyses. Fourteen were randomized to Cooking Matters, 13 to Mealtime PREP, and 22 to the combined program. Three of 4 feasibility benchmarks were met. Over time, improvements were observed in child dietary variety (p < 0.01, SE = 0.99), child nutrition risk (p = 0.01, SE = 0.61), and parenting stress (p = 0.04, SE = 1.33). An additive benefit of the combined intervention was observed for dietary variety (p = 0.03, SE = 0.79). No adverse events were observed or reported.

Conclusions

Offering complementary dietary interventions in under-resourced communities is feasible and shows promise to improve child and parent health.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03559907).
Successful management of chronic urticaria and food allergies in a pediatric population using integrative traditional Chinese medicine therapy: a case series
Authors: Fan Xiaowen , McKnight Tory , Neshiwat Johnathan , Park Song , Chung Danna , Li Xiu-Min
Published: November 2022

Background

Food allergy is becoming increasingly common among the pediatric population. Despite strict avoidance of food allergens, a subgroup of sensitive individuals still develops frequent, persistent, and difficult to treat hives (FPDTH) for which there is no curative therapy. Although these cases are rare, these patients are in most need of therapy.

Case presentations

This is a retrospective review of 3 pediatric patients with highly sensitive food allergies who initially presented with hives daily or every other day, or multiple times a day, but achieved marked remission after traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapies. Patient 1 (P1) is a 5-year-old who has experienced 140 reactions in his lifetime. Reactions were mostly hives with 4 episodes of anaphylaxis. P1 had used Prednisone 20 times, had an Epinephrine injection 4 times, and had 3 emergency room (ER) visits. Patient 2 (P2) is a 12-year-old who had experienced hives since age 3. Despite daily antihistamine use, P2 had > 730 reactions in his lifetime at the time of presentation including 2 episodes of anaphylaxis. He had been prescribed prednisone 4 times, an Epinephrine injection 2 times, and had 1 ER visit. Patient 3 (P3) is a 20-month-old girl who had experienced > 120 reactions including 1 episode of anaphylaxis. She was on daily desonide and frequently used an antihistamine, yet still had required a course of prednisone once, an Epinephrine injection once, and had 1 ER visit to manage her reaction. After presenting to our clinic, patients received internal and external TCM treatments, including herbal baths and creams (Remedy A-D) as basic remedies to reduce food reactions, including but not limited to frequent hives. Within 7–9 months of TCM treatment, remarkably all patients had complete remission of atopic symptoms. All three patients also experienced an improvement in other conditions including food intolerance, diarrhea, anxiety, eczema, and environmental allergies. After 1 year of treatment, all three patients had reductions in food-specific IgE levels that had been previously elevated, and additionally, P1 and P3, who initially had high total IgE levels, experienced a marked decrease in total IgE levels as well. All three patients continued to introduce foods into their diet that they previously had reactions to, and all 3 patients remain symptom-free.

Conclusions

Three pediatric patients with a known history of multiple food sensitivities and physician-diagnosed food allergies that presented with FPDTH underwent a TCM regimen and experienced dramatic improvement in symptoms and reduction in their IgE levels. This regimen appears to be effective in FPDTH population although a further study in a controlled clinical setting is required.
Recent advances of metal-based nanoparticles in nucleic acid delivery for therapeutic applications
Authors: Sharma Ashish Ranjan , Lee Yeon-Hee , Bat-Ulzii Altanzul , Bhattacharya Manojit , Chakraborty Chiranjib , Lee Sang-Soo
Published: November 2022

Recent efforts in designing nanomaterials to deliver potential therapeutics to the targeted site are overwhelming and palpable. Engineering nanomaterials to deliver biological molecules to exert desirable physiological changes, with minimized side effects and optimal dose, has revolutionized the next-generation therapy for several diseases. The rapid progress of nucleic acids as biopharmaceutics is going to alter the traditional pharmaceutics practices in modern medicine. However, enzymatic instability, large size, dense negative charge (hydrophilic for cell uptake), and unintentional adverse biological responses—such as prolongation of the blood coagulation and immune system activation—hamper the potential use of nucleic acids for therapeutic purposes. Moreover, the safe delivery of nucleic acids into the clinical setting is an uphill task, and several efforts are being put forward to deliver them to targeted cells. Advances in Metal-based NanoParticles (MNPs) are drawing attention due to the unique properties offered by them for drug delivery, such as large surface-area-to-volume ratio for surface modification, increased therapeutic index of drugs through site-specific delivery, increased stability, enhanced half-life of the drug in circulation, and efficient biodistribution to the desired targeted site. Here, the potential of nanoparticles delivery systems for the delivery of nucleic acids, specially MNPs, and their ability and advantages over other nano delivery systems are reviewed.

Graphical Abstract
Intracellular cholesterol transport inhibition Impairs autophagy flux by decreasing autophagosome–lysosome fusion
Authors: Maharjan Yunash , Dutta Raghbendra Kumar , Son Jinbae , Wei Xiaofan , Park Channy , Kwon Hyug Moo , Park Raekil
Published: November 2022

Background

Autophagy is an intracellular degradation process crucial for homeostasis. During autophagy, a double-membrane autophagosome fuses with lysosome through SNARE machinery STX17 to form autolysosome for degradation of damaged organelle. Whereas defective autophagy enhances cholesterol accumulation in the lysosome and impaired autophagic flux that results Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1) disease. However, exact interconnection between NPC1 and autophagic flux remain obscure due to the existence of controversial reports.

Results

This study aimed at a comparison of the effects of three autophagic inhibitor drugs, including chloroquine, U18666A, and bafilomycin A1, on the intracellular cholesterol transport and autophagy flux. Chloroquine, an autophagic flux inhibitor; U1866A, a NPC1 inhibitor, and bafilomycin A, a lysosomotropic agent are well known to inhibit autophagy by different mechanism. Here we showed that treatment with U1866A and bafilomycin A induces lysosomal cholesterol accumulation that prevented autophagic flux by decreasing autophagosome–lysosome fusion. We also demonstrated that accumulation of cholesterol within the lysosome did not affect lysosomal pH. Although the clearance of accumulated cholesterol by cyclodextrin restored the defective autophagosome–lysosome fusion, the autophagy flux restoration was possible only when lysosomal acidification was not altered. In addition, a failure of STX17 trafficking to autophagosomes plays a key role in prevention of autophagy flux caused by intracellular cholesterol transport inhibitors.

Conclusions

Our data provide a new insight that the impaired autophagy flux does not necessarily result in lysosomal cholesterol accumulation even though it prevents autophagosome–lysosome fusion.
The relation between C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A in patients with autoinflammatory diseases
Authors: Legger G. E. , Dermer C. W. E. , Brunger A. F. , van Daele P. L. A. , Nienhuis H. L. A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Autoinflammatory diseases are rare disorders of the innate immune system characterized by fever and other signs of inflammation. A feared complication of autoinflammatory diseases is the development of AA amyloidosis. AA amyloidosis is caused by extracellular deposition of soluble serum amyloid A (SAA) proteins as insoluble amyloid fibrils leading to organ damage. Prolonged high levels of SAA are a prerequisite to develop AA amyloidosis. Since measurement of SAA is relatively expensive and sometimes unavailable, C-reactive protein (CRP) is often used as a surrogacy marker to test for inflammation.

Objective

The aim of this research is to evaluate the possible relation between CRP and SAA.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of patients with autoinflammatory diseases (n = 99) where SAA and CRP blood testing was performed in the period between 2015 and 2021 in the University Medical Centre in Groningen was used to investigate the correlation between CRP and SAA.

Results

CRP and SAA have a high correlation (rho = 0.755, p < 0.001). A CRP value below 0.45 mg/L results in 100% sensitivity for SAA below 4 mg/L. CRP below 5 mg/L is a good predictor of SAA below 4 mg/L with 85.4% sensitivity and 83.6% specificity. Only prednisone and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) significantly influence the relation between CRP and log10SAA.

Conclusion

There was a significant correlation between CRP and SAA in our retrospective cohort. CRP levels below 5 mg/L proved to be highly predictive of SAA levels below 4 mg/L. This may not be true for patients on steroids.
Hippocampal microRNA-26a-3p deficit contributes to neuroinflammation and behavioral disorders via p38 MAPK signaling pathway in rats
Authors: Wang Changmin , Li Ye , Yi Yuhang , Liu Guiyu , Guo Ruojing , Wang Liyan , Lan Tian , Wang Wenjing , Chen Xiao , Chen Shihong , Yu Shu Yan
Published: November 2022

Background

Neuronal injury is considered a critical risk factor in the pathogenesis of most neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and identification of potential therapeutic targets for preventing neuronal injury associated with brain function remain largely uncharacterized. Therefore, identifying neural mechanisms would put new insights into the progression of this condition and provide novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of these diseases.

Methods

Stereotactic injection of AAV virus was used to knock-down the miR-26a-3p within hippocampus of rats. Behavioral changes was detected by open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze (EPM), forced swim test (FST) and sucrose preference test (SPT). The inflammatory cytokines and related proteins were verified by real-time quantitative PCR, immunoblotting or immunofluorescence assay. Golgi staining and electron microscopy analysis was used to observe the dendritic spine, synapse and ultrastructural pathology. SB203580 (0.5 mg/kg) were administered daily to prevent p38 MAPK via an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Finally, electrophysiological method was used to examine the synaptic transmission via whole-cell patch-clamp recording.

Results

Here, we showed that miR-26a-3p deficiency within hippocampal regions leads to the activation of microglia, increased level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and behavioral disorders in rats, effects which appear to be mediated by directly targeting the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)–NF-κB signaling pathway. Specifically, we found that the enhanced glia-activation may consequently result in neuronal deterioration that mainly presented as the dysregulation of structural and functional plasticity in hippocampal neurons. In contrast, preventing p38 pathway by SB203580 significantly ameliorated abnormal behavioral phenotypes and neuronal jury resulting from miR-26a-3p knock-down.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the normal expression of miR-26a-3p exerts neuroprotective effects via suppressing neural abnormality and maintaining neuroplasticity to against behavioral disorders in rats. These effects appear to involve a down-regulation of p38 MAPK-NF-κB signaling within the hippocampal region. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that miR-26a-3p can function as a critical factor in regulating neural activity and suggest that the maintaining of normal structure and function of neurons might be a potential therapeutic strategy in the treatment of neurological disorders.

Graphical Abstract
The association between contact sport exposure and cervical sensorimotor dysfunction: a scoping review of implications for future musculoskeletal injury risk
Authors: Cheever Kelly , King Jeffery , Kawata Keisuke
Published: November 2022

Background

While morphological changes to the cervical spine have been observed for over 40 years in response to contact sport participation, little is known about the secondary effects of the cervical impairment on future musculoskeletal injury and disability.

Objectives and design

A scoping review was performed to discuss the relationship between contact sport participation and morphological changes to the cervical spine. Moreover, the correlation between morphological changes in the musculoskeletal structures of the cervical spine and resultant deficits in cervical sensorimotor and neuromotor function are discussed. Lastly, how alterations in cervical sensorimotor function may affect overall risk of musculoskeletal injury is discussed.

Methods

The scientific literature was searched in PubMed, Sport Discus, and Web of Science pertaining to contact-sport athletes and/or cervical pathology and the cervicocephalic network. The Asksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA for Scoping Reviews were used to conduct and report the following review. Included articles were grouped into three categories: (1) Morphological changes to the cervical spine in contact sport athletes. (2) The role of the neuromotor pathways of the cervical spine in maintenance of postural tone and coordination of the extremities. (3) The correlation between altered cervical sensorimotor function and a resultant increase in musculoskeletal injury risk.

Results

Our search identified 566 documents, of which 405 underwent full-text screening, resulting in 54 eligible studies for the review. Widespread cervical sensorimotor dysfunction was observed in contact sport athletes. Independently, cervical sensorimotor function was demonstrated to play a critical role in postural control and limb coordination. However, limited research exists exploring the interaction between contact sport participation and altered cervical sensorimotor function, as well as an associated increase in musculoskeletal injury risk.

Conclusions

Limited evidence exists linking cervical injury and/or observed deficits in cervical sensorimotor and neuromotor function to musculoskeletal injury risk. Longitudinal studies combining imaging measures (e.g., MRI, DEXA), cervical functional test, and prospective injury risk are needed to further explore the correlation between resultant cervical sensorimotor deficits following contact sport impacts and future musculoskeletal injury risk.
Surgical treatment of thoracolumbar fracture in ankylosing spondylitis: A comparison of percutaneous and open techniques
Authors: Ye JingYao , Jiang Ping , Guan HuaPeng , Wei ChuanFu , Li Sen , Jia MengLong , Li NianHu
Published: November 2022

Background context

Posterior percutaneous long-segment internal fixation and open fixation with long-segment screws have been used to treat thoracolumbar fractures in ankylosing spondylitis patients.

Purpose

To observe the clinical effect of posterior percutaneous long-segment internal fixation in 26 ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with thoracolumbar fractures.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Patient sample

Forty-seven AS patients who were diagnosed with thoracolumbar fractures and treated from December 2014 to December 2018.

Outcome measures

Visual analog scale score, Cobb angle, American Spinal Injury Association Grade, SF-Qualiveen score, pedicle screw misplacement rate, operative duration, blood loss, complications, bed rest duration and modified MacNab score.

Methods

All patients were divided into the percutaneous group (PG) and the open group. Twenty-six patients were treated with percutaneous long-segment internal fixation, and the remaining 21 underwent open fixation with long-segment screws. The minimum follow-up period was 12 months.

Results

The operations were successful in both groups. A patient in the PG showed class C wound healing, while the others showed class A healing, and some patients experienced perioperative complications. All patients were followed up for 12–48 months (mean, 33.81 months), and all patients showed clinical osseous fracture healing. Significant differences were found in operative duration, intraoperative blood loss and postoperative bed rest duration between the two groups (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found in improvement of the visual analog scale score, Cobb angle of spinal kyphosis or neurological function after the operation (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

As a minimally invasive procedure, posterior percutaneous long-segment internal fixation requires less time, results in less blood loss and causes less trauma. This procedure can also improve patients’ pain, neurological function and kyphotic deformity and achieve effects similar to those of traditional methods. With this curative clinical effect, this procedure can be used as an ideal surgical treatment for thoracolumbar fractures in AS patients, especially for elderly patients with underlying diseases and high surgical risk.
Early and mid-term results with the ATTUNE total knee replacement system compared to PFC Sigma: a prospective comparative study
Authors: Willburger Roland E. , Oberberg Stella
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Up to 20% of all patients are not satisfied with the result after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To improve patient satisfaction manufacturers have modified prosthesis design. The ATTUNE prosthesis is a modified version of the PFC Sigma. Aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome at 6 months and 5 years after TKA with ATTUNE compared to PFC Sigma.

Methods

Sixty patients were included prospectively (30 ATTUNE vs. 30 PFC Sigma). Knee Society Score and Hospital for Special Surgery Score were recorded preoperatively, at 6 months and at least 5 years postoperatively. At 5-years follow-up X-rays in two planes were evaluated, radiolucent lines were documented.

Results

Patient characteristics were similar in both groups. Both ATTUNE and PFC Sigma provided good to excellent clinical results. There were no statistically significant differences based on the overall scores and patient rated outcome measures. Nevertheless, patients in the ATTUNE group tended to be symptom-free earlier and to achieve better clinical results after 5 years.

Conclusion

Even with the scores not being significantly different here, the modified design of ATTUNE could increase long-term satisfaction with the implant and reduce the need for revision surgery. However, long-term results are required to prove this.
Changes in cervical alignment of Zero-profile device versus conventional cage-plate construct after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Ziwen , Yang Yuming , Lan Jie , Xu Hanpeng , Zhang Zepei , Miao Jun
Published: November 2022

Background

Anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) has been widely accepted as a gold standard for patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). However, there was insufficient evidence to compare the changes in the cervical alignment with different fusion devices in a long follow-up period. This meta-analysis was performed to compare the radiologic outcomes and loss of correction (LOC) in cervical alignment of Zero-profile (ZP) device versus cage-plate (CP) construct for the treatment of CSM.

Methods

Retrospective and prospective studies directly comparing the outcomes between the ZP device and CP construct in ACDF were included. Data extraction was conducted and study quality was assessed independently. A meta-analysis was carried out by using fixed effects and random effects models to calculate the odds ratio and mean difference in the ZP group and the CP group.

Results

Fourteen trials with a total of 1067 participants were identified. ZP group had a lower rate of postoperative dysphagia at the 2- or 3-month and 6-month follow-up than CP group, and ZP group was associated with a decreased ASD rate at the last follow-up when compared with the CP group. The pooled data of radiologic outcomes revealed that there was no significant difference in postoperative and last follow-up IDH. However, postoperative and last follow-up cervical Cobb angle was significantly smaller in the ZP group when compared with the CP group. In subgroup analyses, when the length of the last follow-up was less than 3 years, there was no difference between two groups. However, as the last follow-up time increased, cervical Cobb angle was significantly lower in the ZP group when compared with the CP group.

Conclusion

Based on the results of our analysis, the application of ZP device in ACDF had a lower rate of postoperative dysphagia and ASD than CP construct. Both devices were safe in anterior cervical surgeries, and they had similar efficacy in correcting radiologic outcomes. However, as the last follow-up time increased, ZP group showed greater changes cervical alignment. In order to clarify the specific significance of LOC, additional large clinical studies with longer follow-up period are required.
Mobilisation of critically ill patients receiving norepinephrine: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lindholz Maximilian , Schellenberg Clara M. , Grunow Julius J. , Kagerbauer Simone , Milnik Annette , Zickler Daniel , Angermair Stefan , Reißhauer Anett , Witzenrath Martin , Menk Mario , Boie Sebastian , Balzer Felix , Schaller Stefan J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Mobilisation and exercise intervention in general are safe and feasible in critically ill patients. For patients requiring catecholamines, however, doses of norepinephrine safe for mobilisation in the intensive care unit (ICU) are not defined. This study aimed to describe mobilisation practice in our hospital and identify doses of norepinephrine that allowed a safe mobilisation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective single-centre cohort study of 16 ICUs at a university hospital in Germany with patients admitted between March 2018 and November 2021. Data were collected from our patient data management system. We analysed the effect of norepinephrine on level (ICU Mobility Scale) and frequency (units per day) of mobilisation, early mobilisation (within 72 h of ICU admission), mortality, and rate of adverse events. Data were extracted from free-text mobilisation entries using supervised machine learning (support vector machine). Statistical analyses were done using (generalised) linear (mixed-effect) models, as well as chi-square tests and ANOVAs.

Results

A total of 12,462 patients were analysed in this study. They received a total of 59,415 mobilisation units. Of these patients, 842 (6.8%) received mobilisation under continuous norepinephrine administration. Norepinephrine administration was negatively associated with the frequency of mobilisation (adjusted difference -0.07 mobilisations per day; 95% CI − 0.09, − 0.05; p ≤ 0.001) and early mobilisation (adjusted OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.76, 0.90; p ≤ 0.001), while a higher norepinephrine dose corresponded to a lower chance to be mobilised out-of-bed (adjusted OR 0.01; 95% CI 0.00, 0.04; p ≤ 0.001). Mobilisation with norepinephrine did not significantly affect mortality (p > 0.1). Higher compared to lower doses of norepinephrine did not lead to a significant increase in adverse events in our practice (p > 0.1). We identified that mobilisation was safe with up to 0.20 µg/kg/min norepinephrine for out-of-bed (IMS ≥ 2) and 0.33 µg/kg/min for in-bed (IMS 0–1) mobilisation.

Conclusions

Mobilisation with norepinephrine can be done safely when considering the status of the patient and safety guidelines. We demonstrated that safe mobilisation was possible with norepinephrine doses up to 0.20 µg/kg/min for out-of-bed (IMS ≥ 2) and 0.33 µg/kg/min for in-bed (IMS 0–1) mobilisation.
Life table analysis of Anopheles balabacensis, the primary vector of Plasmodium knowlesi in Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Chua Tock H. , Manin Benny Obrain , Fornace Kimberly
Published: November 2022

Background

Plasmodium knowlesi has become a major public health concern in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, where it is now the only cause of indigenous malaria. The importance of P. knowlesi has spurred on a series of studies on this parasite, as well as on the biology and ecology of its principal vector, Anopheles balabacensis. However, there remain critical knowledge gaps on the biology of An. balabacensis, such as life history data and life table parameters. To fill these gaps, we conducted a life table study of An. balabacensis in the laboratory. Characterising vector life cycles and survival rates can inform more accurate estimations of the serial interval, the time between two linked cases, which is crucial to understanding and monitoring potentially changing transmission patterns.

Methods

Individuals of An. balabacensis were collected in the field in Ranau district, Sabah to establish a laboratory colony. Induced mating was used, and the life history parameters of the progeny were recorded. The age-stage, two-sex life table approach was used in the analysis. The culture conditions in the laboratory were 9 h light:15 h dark, mean temperature 25.7 °C ± 0.05 and relative humidity 75.8% ± 0.31.

Results

The eggs hatched within 2 days, and the larval stage lasted for 10.5 days in total, with duration of instar stages I, II, III and IV of 2.3, 3.7, 2.3, 2.2 days, respectively. The maximum total fecundity was 729 for one particular female, while the maximum female age-specific mean fecundity (mx) was 142 at age 59 days. The gross reproductive rate or number of offspring per individual was about 102. On average, each female laid 1.81 ± 0.19 (range 1–7) batches of eggs, with 63% of the females producing only one batch; only one female laid six batches, while one other laid seven. Each batch comprised 159 ± 17.1 eggs (range 5–224) and the female ratio of offspring was 0.28 ± 0.06. The intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase, net reproductive rate, mean generation time and doubling time were, respectively, 0.12 ± 0.01 day−1, 1.12 ± 0.01 day−1, 46.2 ± 14.97, 33.02 ± 1.85 and 5.97 days.

Conclusions

Both the net reproductive rate and intrinsic rate of increase of An. balabacensis are lower than those of other species in published studies. Our results can be used to improve models of P. knowlesi transmission and to set a baseline for assessing the impacts of environmental change on malaria dynamics. Furthermore, incorporating these population parameters of An. balabacensis into spatial and temporal models on the transmission of P. knowlesi would provide better insight and increase the accuracy of epidemiological forecasting.

Graphical Abstract
Weighted Lipschitz estimates for commutators of multilinear Calderón–Zygmund operators with Dini type kernels
Authors: Sun Jie
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we discuss the properties for commutators and iterated commutators generated by the multilinear ω-CZO and weighted Lipschitz functions on Lebesgue space.
Quasiconsensus of fractional-order heterogeneous multiagent systems under event-triggered impulsive control method
Authors: Huang Conggui , Wang Fei , Zheng Zhaowen
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates the quasiconsensus problem of fractional-order heterogeneous multiagent systems, the distributed impulsive control protocol is designed for the multiagent system. In contrast to some existing results, the impulsive moments are determined by preset events, i.e., the event-triggered mechanism is used. Based on the fractional-order Lyapunov stability theory and fractional-order differential inequality, the quasiconsensus criteria are derived; furthermore, the prescribed error bound is given. Then, Zeno behavior for the considered event-triggered control method is excluded. Finally, numerical examples are given to shown the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Applying design thinking for business model innovation
Authors: You Xinya
Published: November 2022

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in using design thinking for business model innovation. However, few studies have explored the application, potential and challenges of design thinking from a comprehensive perspective. In order to better understand how design thinking can contribute to business model innovation, this paper regards business model innovation as a subject of design research and provides a critical review of researchers’ explorations of how to apply design thinking for business model innovation. In light of the literature review, this paper distils seven key design research themes: (1) design thinking as a mindset and a methodology; (2) designers of business models; (3) design activities for business model innovation; (4) design tools for business model innovation; (5) design approaches for business model innovation; (6) co-creation of new products, services and business models, and (7) evaluating and measuring the impact of design thinking. The themes not only highlight the potential of applying design thinking as a necessary mindset and methodology to business model innovation, but also emphasise the nature of designing as a social process.
A critical analysis of the networking experiences of female entrepreneurs: a study based on the small business tourism sector in Sri Lanka
Authors: Surangi H. A. K. N. S.
Published: November 2022

This study expands on current knowledge through how female entrepreneurs form and develop their networks in the Sri Lankan context. It adopts social constructionism philosophy and narrative design to explore the female entrepreneurs' networking behaviour. Thematic analysis is used to understand the life stories of fourteen women entrepreneurs in the tourism sector. Findings suggest that female entrepreneurs are likely to rely on more informal recruitment methods and informal training practices. They have strong relationships with local communities, but they focus on customers beyond the locals. Seasonality within tourism has emphasised tourism literature due to its disruptive effect on economic transactions. However, less of the literature has examined the social effects of seasonality, which is where this study can contribute by exploring how gender roles related to social and domestic responsibilities are renegotiated during the low and high seasons when tourism entrepreneurs re-adjust to new time-demand realities. Nevertheless, the narrative research design is not widely used in the Sri Lankan context. Therefore, this article adds to the entrepreneurial networking knowledge by analysing stories about female entrepreneurs' experiences and social constructionist perspectives.
The rapid and efficient strategy for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron transmission control: analysis of outbreaks at the city level
Authors: Zheng Jin-Xin , Lv Shan , Tian Li-Guang , Guo Zhao-Yu , Zheng Pei-Yong , Chen Yue-Lai , Guan Shi-Yang , Wang Wei-Ming , Zhang Shun-Xian
Published: November 2022

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant is highly transmissible with potential immune escape. Hence, control measures are continuously being optimized to guard against large-scale coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the intensity of control measures in response to different SARS-CoV-2 variants and the degree of outbreak control at city level.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in 49 cities with COVID-19 outbreaks between January 2020 and June 2022. Epidemiological data on COVID-19 were extracted from the National Health Commission, People’s Republic of China, and the population flow data were sourced from the Baidu migration data provided by the Baidu platform. Outbreak control was quantified by calculating the degree of infection growth and the time-varying reproduction number ($${R}_{t}$$

R
t

). The intensity of the outbreak response was quantified by calculating the reduction in population mobility during the outbreak period. Correlation and regression analyses of the intensity of the control measures and the degree of outbreak control for the Omicron variant and non-Omicron mutants were conducted, respectively.

Results

Overall, 65 outbreaks occurred in 49 cities in China from January 2020 to June 2022. Of them, 66.2% were Omicron outbreaks and 33.8% were non-Omicron outbreaks. The intensity of the control measures was positively correlated with the degree of outbreak control (r = 0.351, P = 0.03). The degree of reduction in population mobility was negatively correlated with the Rt value (r = − 0.612, P < 0.01). Therefore, under the same control measure intensity, the number of new daily Omicron infections was 6.04 times higher than those attributed to non-Omicron variants, and the Rt value of Omicron outbreaks was 2.6 times higher than that of non-Omicron variants. In addition, the duration of non-Omicron variant outbreaks was shorter than that of the outbreaks caused by the Omicron variant (23.0 ± 10.7, 32.9 ± 16.3, t = 2.243, P = 0.031).

Conclusions

Greater intensity of control measures was associated with more effective outbreak control. Thus, in response to the Omicron variant, the management to restrict population movement should be used to control its spread quickly, especially in the case of community transmission occurs widely. Faster than is needed for non-Omicron variants, and decisive control measures should be imposed and dynamically adjusted in accordance with the evolving epidemic situation.
The use of technology in the treatment of youth with eating disorders: A scoping review
Authors: Dufour Rachel , Novack Kaylee , Picard Louis , Chadi Nicholas , Booij Linda
Published: November 2022

Background

Adolescence and young adulthood is a high-risk period for the development of eating disorders. In recent years, there has been an increase in use of technology-based interventions (TBIs) for the treatment of eating disorders. The objective of this study was to determine the types of technology used for eating disorder treatment in youth and their effectiveness.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Four databases were searched. Eligible articles included: (1) a TBI (2) participants with a mean age between 10- and 25-years and meeting DSM-IV or DSM-5 criteria for any eating disorder and (3) qualitative or quantitative designs. Quantitative and qualitative studies were assessed for quality.

Results

The search identified 1621 articles. After screening of titles and abstracts, 130 articles were read in full and assessed for eligibility by two raters. Forty-nine (29 quantitative and 20 qualitative, observational, or mixed methods studies) met inclusion criteria. Quality ratings indicated that 78% of quantitative studies had a low risk of bias and 22% had a moderate risk. Technologies reviewed in our study included videoconference therapy, mobile applications, and online self-help. We considered interventions used both within sessions with clinicians as well as those used in between sessions by patients alone. Fifteen of 18 (83%) quantitative studies found that TBIs reduce eating disorder symptomatology, with nine of those reporting medium-to-large effect sizes. Qualitative data was of high quality and suggested that virtual interventions are acceptable in this population.

Conclusions

Although identified studies are of high quality, they are limited in number. More research is needed, particularly regarding videoconferencing and mobile applications. Nonetheless, TBIs show promise for the treatment of eating disorders in youth.

Trial registration: Not applicable.
Local pharmaceutical research and development capacity in a developing country: a qualitative exploration of perspectives from key stakeholders in Ethiopia
Authors: Selam Muluken Nigatu , Abera Samuel , Geremew Helen , Ali Eskinder Eshetu
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Despite its importance in ensuring sustainable healthcare, there are huge challenges with pharmaceutical research and development (R&D) especially for developing countries mainly due to the high investment costs naturally associated with such activities. In this regard, the pharmaceutical sector in Ethiopia, the most populous nation in East Africa, faces numerous challenges. The current study aimed at assessing the R&D capacity of the local pharmaceutical manufacturers from the perspectives of key informants working in the companies and supporting government offices and education institutions.

Methods

A qualitative study design employing in-depth interviews using semi-structured interview guides with flexible probing techniques was used for data collection. The study involved purposively selected participants who represented major stakeholders such as managers in the R&D departments of pharmaceutical manufacturers, officers and leaders in concerned government agencies and researchers in a local university. All transcribed interviews were subjected to thematic analysis and the Qualitative Data Analysis software in family R (RQDA) was used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 14 participants were involved in the study and three major themes were identified from the interviews. Current R&D capacity, opportunities and challenges for involvement in R&D were the major themes. Under current R&D capacity, the weak R&D status of local pharmaceutical plants and minimal university–industry linkage were identified. The challenges of pharmaceutical R&D in Ethiopia included weak governmental and managerial support; difficult procurement processes for R&D input; and the high cost of R&D. Availability of trainable human power and planned government incentives were identified as the opportunities.

Conclusion

Overall, there is a low level of R&D capacity in local pharmaceutical industries and timely interventional strategies should be implemented through collaboration of academia, research institutions and pharmaceutical industries.
Accurate delivery of pristimerin and paclitaxel by folic acid-linked nano-micelles for enhancing chemosensitivity in cancer therapy
Authors: Chen Chao , Du Shiyu , Zhong Wu , Liu Kunguo , Qu Lihua , Chu Feiyi , Yang Jingjing , Han Xin
Published: November 2022

Chemoresistance remains a huge challenge for effective treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Previous studies have shown Chinese herbal extracts possess great potential in ameliorating tumor chemoresistance, however, the efficacy is clinically limited mainly because of the poor tumor-targeting and in vivo stability. The construction of nano-delivery systems for herbal extracts has been shown to improve drug targeting, enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce toxic and side effects. In this study, a folic acid (FA)-modified nano-herb micelle was developed for codelivery of pristimerin (PRI) and paclitaxel (PTX) to enhance chemosensitivity of NSCLC, in which PRI could synergistically enhance PTX-induced growth inhibition of A549 cancer cell. PTX was firstly grafted with the FA-linked polyethylene glycol (PEG) and then encapsulated with PRI to construct the PRI@FA-PEG-PTX (P@FPP) nano-micelles (NMs), which exhibited improved tumor-targeting and in vivo stability. This active-targeting P@FPP NMs displayed excellent tumor-targeting characteristics without obvious toxicity. Moreover, inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis induced by P@FPP NMs were significantly enhanced compared with the combined effects of the two drugs (PRI in combination of PTX), which associated with epithelial mesenchymal transition inhibition to some extent. Overall, this active-targeting NMs provides a versatile nano-herb strategy for improving tumor-targeting of Chinese herbal extracts, which may help in the promotion of enhancing chemosensitivity of NSCLC in clinical applications.
English proficiency as a performance of digital social capital: understanding how Chinese study abroad students use WeChat for the symbolic purpose of English language learning
Authors: Carolan Jordan
Published: November 2022

This study investigates how Chinese study abroad students utilize WeChat for the symbolic purpose of English language learning while exploring what particular features of WeChat are beneficial to one’s English learning. It also explores how English proficiency acts as a form of digital social capital in China, with a particular focus on how WeChat acts as a stage from which users can perform their perceived higher-social class. By deploying a symbolic interactionist approach and conceptualizing an appropriate theoretical framework, this study aims to determine whether students fully engage with WeChat’s symbolic meaning as an English learning tool. Qualitative methods of research consisting of semi-structured interviews and a walkthrough of WeChat are carried out which investigates how English learning features are accessed on WeChat and how they ultimately shape learners’ symbolic meanings of WeChat. It is found that performing high English proficiency on WeChat is associated with negative connotations (bragging) due to links between English level and class background. Moreover, factors such as filial piety prevented users from performing their English proficiency and fully engaging with WeChat as a learning tool also.
Stakeholder engagement in eight comparative effectiveness trials in African Americans and Latinos with asthma
Authors: Dy Tiffany , Hamilton Winifred J. , Kramer C. Bradley , Apter Andrea , Krishnan Jerry A. , Stout James W. , Teach Stephen J. , Federman Alex , Elder John , Bryant-Stephens Tyra , Bruhl Rebecca J. , Jackson Shawni , Sumino Kaharu
Published: November 2022

Background

The effects of stakeholder engagement, particularly in comparative effectiveness trials, have not been widely reported. In 2014, eight comparative effectiveness studies targeting African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos with uncontrolled asthma were funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) as part of its Addressing Disparities Program. Awardees were required to meaningfully involve patients and other stakeholders. Using specific examples, we describe how these stakeholders substantially changed the research protocols and in other ways participated meaningfully as full partners in the development and conduct of the eight studies.

Methods

Using the method content analysis of cases, we identified themes regarding the types of stakeholders, methods of engagement, input from the stakeholders, changes made to the research protocols and processes, and perceived benefits and challenges of the engagement process. We used summaries from meetings of the eight teams, results from an engagement survey, and the final research reports as our data source to obtain detailed information. The descriptive data were assessed by multiple reviewers using inductive and deductive qualitative methods and discussed in the context of engagement literature.

Results

Stakeholders participated in the planning, conduct, and dissemination phases of all eight asthma studies. All the studies included clinicians and community representatives as stakeholders. Other stakeholders included patients with asthma, their caregivers, advocacy organizations, and health-system representatives. Engagement was primarily by participation in advisory boards, although six of the eight studies (75%) also utilized focus groups and one-on-one interviews. Difficulty finding a time and location to meet was the most reported challenge to engagement, noted by four of the eight teams (50%). Other reported challenges and barriers to engagement included recruitment of stakeholders, varying levels of enthusiasm among stakeholders, controlling power dynamics, and ensuring that stakeholder involvement was reflected and had true influence on the project.

Conclusion

Engagement-driven modifications led to specific changes in study design and conduct that were felt to have increased enrollment and the general level of trust and support of the targeted communities. The level of interaction described, between investigators and stakeholders in each study and between investigator-stakeholder groups, is—we believe—unprecedented and may provide useful guidance for other studies seeking to improve the effectiveness of community-driven research.