bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards interpretable Cryo-EM: disentangling latent spaces of molecular conformations
Authors: Klindt David A. , Hyvärinen Aapo , Levy Axel , Miolane Nina , Poitevin Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Molecules are essential building blocks of life and their different conformations (i.e., shapes) crucially determine the functional role that they play in living organisms. Cryogenic Electron Microscopy (cryo-EM) allows for acquisition of large image datasets of individual molecules. Recent advances in computational cryo-EM have made it possible to learn latent variable models of conformation landscapes. However, interpreting these latent spaces remains a challenge as their individual dimensions are often arbitrary. The key message of our work is that this interpretation challenge can be viewed as an Independent Component Analysis (ICA) problem where we seek models that have the property of identifiability. That means, they have an essentially unique solution, representing a conformational latent space that separates the different degrees of freedom a molecule is equipped with in nature. Thus, we aim to advance the computational field of cryo-EM beyond visualizations as we connect it with the theoretical framework of (nonlinear) ICA and discuss the need for identifiable models, improved metrics, and benchmarks. Moving forward, we propose future directions for enhancing the disentanglement of latent spaces in cryo-EM, refining evaluation metrics and exploring techniques that leverage physics-based decoders of biomolecular systems. Moreover, we discuss how future technological developments in time-resolved single particle imaging may enable the application of nonlinear ICA models that can discover the true conformation changes of molecules in nature. The pursuit of interpretable conformational latent spaces will empower researchers to unravel complex biological processes and facilitate targeted interventions. This has significant implications for drug discovery and structural biology more broadly. More generally, latent variable models are deployed widely across many scientific disciplines. Thus, the argument we present in this work has much broader applications in AI for science if we want to move from impressive nonlinear neural network models to mathematically grounded methods that can help us learn something new about nature.
The future of cancer treatment: combining radiotherapy with immunotherapy
Authors: Dagar Gunjan , Gupta Ashna , Shankar Abhishek , Chauhan Ravi , Macha Muzafar A. , Bhat Ajaz A. , Das Dayasagar , Goyal Rajeev , Bhoriwal Sandeep , Pandita Raj K. , Prasad Chandra Prakash , Sarkar Partha S. , Pandita Tej K. , Singh Mayank
Published: July 2024

Radiotherapy (RT) and immunotherapy (IT) are the powerful tools for cancer treatment which act through the stimulation of immune response, and evidence suggest that combinatorial actions of these therapies may augment each other’s beneficial effect through complex synergistic mechanisms. These molecular strategies are designed to target rapidly dividing cancer cells by either directly or indirectly inducing DNA damage. However, when cells detect DNA damage, they activate a range of signalling pathways known as the DNA damage response (DDR) to repair. Strategies are being developed to interfere with the DDR pathways in cancer cells to ensure their damage-induced degeneration. The stability of a cell’s genetic material is largely dependent on the efficacy of DNA repair and therefore, an in-depth understanding of DNA damages and repair mechanism(s) in cancer cells is important to develop a promising therapeutic strategies for ensuring the efficacy of damage-induced tumor cell death. In recent years, a wide range of small molecule drugs have been developed which are currently being employed to combat the DNA repair deficiencies associated with tumor cells. Sequential or concurrent use of these two modalities significantly enhances the anti-tumor response, however with a concurrent probability of increased incidence of symptomatic adverse effects. With advent of newer IT agents, and administration of higher doses of radiation per fraction, such effects are more difficult to predict owing to the paucity of randomized trial data. It is well established that anti cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), anti- Programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1), anti-Programmed cell death one ligand 1 (PD-L1) can be safely administered with RT and many studies have demonstrated survival benefit with such combination for patients with metastatic malignancy. However, the biology of radioimmunotherapy (RT/IT) is still an open area where research need to be focused to determine optimum dosage specially the interaction of the RT/IT pathways to determine optimum dosing schedule. In the current article we have summarised the possible intracellular immunological events that might be triggered when RT and IT modalities are combined with the DDR antagonists and highlighted present clinical practices, outcome, and toxicity profile of this novel treatment strategy.
Associations of endogenous estrogens, plasma Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers, and APOE4 carrier status on regional brain volumes in postmenopausal women
Authors: Wugalter Katrina A. , Schroeder Rachel A. , Thurston Rebecca C. , Wu Minjie , Aizenstein Howard J. , Cohen Ann D. , Kamboh M. Ilyas , Karikari Thomas K. , Derby Carol A. , Maki Pauline M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Women carrying the APOE4 allele are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from ages 65–75 years compared to men. To better understand the elevated risk conferred by APOE4 carrier status among midlife women, we investigated the separate and interactive associations of endogenous estrogens, plasma AD biomarkers, and APOE4 carrier status on regional brain volumes in a sample of late midlife postmenopausal women.

Methods

Participants were enrolled in MsBrain, a cohort study of postmenopausal women (n = 171, mean age = 59.4 years, mean MoCA score = 26.9; race = 83.2% white, APOE4 carriers = 40). Serum estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) levels were assessed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. APOE genotype was determined using TaqMan SNP genotyping assays. Plasma AD biomarkers were measured using single molecule array technology. Cortical volume was measured and segmented by FreeSurfer software using individual T1w MPRAGE images. Multiple linear regression models were conducted to determine whether separate and interactive associations between endogenous estrogen levels, plasma AD biomarkers (Aβ42/Aβ40, Aβ42/p-tau181), and APOE4 carrier status predict regional brain volume (21 regions per hemisphere, selected a priori); and, whether significant interactive associations between estrogens and AD biomarkers on brain volume differed by APOE4 carrier status.

Results

There was no main effect of APOE4 carrier status on regional brain volumes, endogenous estrogen levels, or plasma AD biomarkers. Estrogens did not associate with regional brain volumes, except for positive associations with left caudal middle frontal gyrus and fusiform volumes. The interactive association of estrogens and APOE4 carrier status on brain volume was not significant for any region. The interactive association of estrogens and plasma AD biomarkers predicted brain volume of several regions. Higher E1 and E2 were more strongly associated with greater regional brain volumes among women with a poorer AD biomarker profile (lower Aβ42/40, lower Aβ42/p-tau181 ratios). In APOE4-stratified analyses, these interactions were driven by non-APOE4 carriers.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that the brain volumes of postmenopausal women with poorer AD biomarker profiles benefit most from higher endogenous estrogen levels. These findings are driven by non-APOE4 carriers, suggesting that APOE4 carriers may be insensitive to the favorable effects of estrogens on brain volume in the postmenopause.
Efficacy analysis of mechanical thrombectomy combined with prolonged mild hypothermia in the treatment of acute middle cerebral artery occlusion: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Anqi , Meng Xuan , Chen Qin , Chu YanFei , Zhou Qiang , Jiang DongYi , Wang Zhimin
Published: July 2024

Objective

To determine the efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy combined with prolonged mild hypothermia compared with conventional treatment in managing acute middle cerebral artery occlusion, and to explore whether extending the duration of hypothermia can improve neurological function.

Method

From 2018 to June 2023, a retrospective analysis was conducted on 45 patients with acute middle cerebral artery occlusion treated at the NICU of Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. After thrombectomy, patients were admitted to the neurological intensive care unit (NICU) for targeted temperature management. Patients were divided into two groups: the mild hypothermia group (34.5–35.9°C) receiving 5–7 days of treatment, and the normothermia group (control group) whose body temperature was kept between 36 and 37.5°C using pharmacological and physical cooling methods. Baseline characteristics and temperature changes were compared between the two groups of patients. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 month after surgery, and the secondary outcomes were related complications and mortality rate. Prognostic risk factors were investigated using both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Among 45 patients, 21 underwent prolonged mild hypothermia, and 24 received normothermia, with no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. The duration of mild hypothermia ranged from 5 to 7 days. The incidence of chills (33.3% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.031) and constipation (57.1% vs. 20.8%, p = 0.028) was significantly higher in the mild hypothermia group compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in mortality rates between the mild hypothermia and the control group (4.76% vs. 8.33%, p = 1.000, OR = 1.75, 95% CI, 0.171–17.949). At 3 month, there was no significant difference in the modified mRS (0–3) score between the mild hypothermia and control groups (52.4% vs. 25%, p = 0.114, OR = 0.477, 95% CI, 0.214–1.066). Infarct core volume was an independent risk factor for adverse neurological outcomes.

Conclusion

Prolonged mild hypothermia following mechanical thrombectomy had no severe complications and shows a trend to improve the prognosis of neurological function. The Infarct core volume on CTP was an independent risk factor for predicting neurological function.
A narrative review of anxiety regulation in PhD students based on Green model
Authors: Ma Yue , Yu Ahui , Ma Haiqi , Zhao Yang , Liu Xiaojun , Zhai Huimin , Gao Yulin
Published: July 2024

To gain a better understanding of the factors that contribute to anxiety among PhD students and the reasons for poor regulation in the current situation, this paper analyses the existing literature on anxiety among PhD students using Green's model. It also compares and evaluates various methods of regulating anxiety. The literature review to extract information on the causes and levels of anxiety, methods and outcomes of anxiety intervention and regulation, and to make comparisons. The study reveals that the phenomenon of PhD students' anxiety has intensified globally in recent years, especially after the end of the epidemic. PhD students experience anxiety due to research pressure, economic pressure, future development, and interpersonal pressure. The main influencing factors are currently the relationship with the supervisor, development prospects, social support, and peer comparison. Among the stress relief methods, the regulation of self-relaxation was found to have better effects on mild anxiety, such as positive thinking, meditation, yoga and physical exercise can be helpful for emotion release then help focus on problem solved. Whereas severe anxiety may require institutional and pharmacological support, also including using psychological therapy such as behavioral cognitive therapy and systematic desensitization methods. For university, competence to provide course-assisted guidance, such as writing groups, peer support, and time management, is also important. Academic communities should pay attention to the guidance on academic fairness. However, PhD students are often unaware of the resources available to them for coping with stress and may not take the initiative to seek psychological counseling or institutional assistance. Therefore, PhD students should receive support from various sources, be guided to express their thoughts, and receive additional education and academic assistance to manage stress. This will enhance their confidence and aid in improving their scientific research.
The mediating role of emotional intelligence between self-efficacy and resilience in Chinese secondary vocational students
Authors: Jiang Ruichen
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the relationship between self-efficacy and resilience in Chinese secondary vocational students and examine the mediating effect of emotional intelligence.

Methods

In September 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 282 Chinese students from three secondary vocational schools by using a voluntary and anonymous structured questionnaire, which included a general self-efficacy scale (GSES), emotional intelligence scale (EIS), and resilience scale (RS). The data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 software and macro PROCESS.

Results

The scores of self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and resilience of Chinese secondary vocational students were above the average level. Correlations among the self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and resilience levels of students were significant. The analyses of mediating effect showed that emotional intelligence partially mediated the influence of self-efficacy on resilience of secondary vocational students.

Conclusion

Self-efficacy was positively associated with resilience. Self-efficacy not only has a direct effect on the resilience of secondary vocational students but it also indirectly affects the resilience through the mediating role of emotional intelligence. These findings valuable for designing the secondary vocational school programs aimed at improving students’ psychological resilience.
Resilience mediates the prediction of alienation towards parents on subjective well-being in rural left-behind children: a 12-month longitudinal study
Authors: Zhang Mengjia , Sun Xiaoxiao , Cui Chun , Tan Jieying , Ren Xiaomei , Dai Qin
Published: July 2024

Objective

Parent-child relationship is critical for children’s well-being. In China, the large number of left-behind children (LBC, one or both parents leaving for work for at least 6 months) raises public concern. Although LBC often report poor mental health status and higher alienation towards parents, the dynamic trend of subjective well-being in this population, as well as the prediction of alienation towards parents on LBC’s subjective well-being, remain unrevealed. This study aimed to examine the dynamic trend of subjective well-being in Chinese LBC and further explore the predictional influence of alienation towards parents, with resilience as a potential mediator.

Methods

We recruited 916 rural LBC in China and investigated them at five waves (baseline, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months later) using Inventory of Alienation towards Parents (IAP), Resilience Scale for Chinese Adolescents (RSCA) and Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS). We used hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) for analysis.

Results

At baseline, no significant differences were found in the scores of alienation towards parents, resilience, and subjective well-being on gender, grade, or type of LBC. A significant correlation existed between the scores of alienation towards parents, resilience, and subjective well-being. HLM showed a linear increase in the subjective well-being of rural LBC. Alienation toward both mother and father negatively predicted the developmental trajectory of children’s subjective well-being over 12 months. Moreover, resilience partially mediated this prediction.

Conclusion

This study is among the first to reveal that alienation towards parents predicts the developmental trajectory of later LBC’s subjective well-being, with resilience as a mediator. These findings warrant the necessity of paying attention to alienation toward parents to ensure the mental health of LBC, giving valuable guidance to parents, schools and governments.
Exploring the association between social support and anxiety during major public emergencies: a meta-analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Liu Jianmei , Chang Siyu , Wang Zhidan , Raja Fasahat Z.
Published: July 2024

Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a surge in research focusing on mental health issues faced by society, with particular emphasis on the interplay between social support and anxiety. However, the results of these studies have often been controversial.

Methods

To address this, we conducted a meta-analysis of 104 studies (N = 107,660) to investigate the relationship between anxiety and social support and the potential moderate variables.

Results

Our meta-analysis revealed a negative correlation between social support and anxiety (r = −0.233). The study also demonstrated the variation in the relationship between social support and anxiety was moderated by cultural area (Q = 14.120, p < 0.05) and phrase of the pandemic (Q = 13.678, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The relationship between social support and anxiety can differ across different cultural areas and throughout the phrase of the pandemic. Consequently, we advocate for a nuanced assessment of the role of social support in mitigating public anxiety, taking into account the mediating effects of these factors in the context of major public emergencies.
Health service providers' views on barriers and drivers to childhood vaccination of FDMN/Rohingya refugees: a qualitative study in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Reda Sarah , Weishaar Heide , Akhter Sadika , Karo Basel , Martínez Jorge , Singh Aarti , Jackson Cath
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite established vaccination programs, vaccine-preventable diseases persist among about 900,000 Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN)/Rohingya refugees in the world's largest refugee settlement in Bangladesh. Health service providers (HSPs) play a key role in the delivery of childhood vaccination programs. This study explored their views on individual and context barriers and drivers to childhood vaccination in this setting.

Methods

Informed by the theoretical framework of the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) model for behavior change, this qualitative study collected data through eight focus group discussions (FGDs) with community health workers (CHWs) and vaccinators in selected camps with high or low vaccination coverage rates, and through 11 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with key informants working in strategic, management, and administrative roles.

Findings

Barriers and drivers were evident across all COM factors for HSPs and caregivers. Among HSPs, knowledge around vaccination acted both as a barrier and driver, while communication skills and confidence in vaccination served as drivers. Caregivers' lack of awareness of vaccination, concerns and mistrust were described as main barriers. Context barriers included information system deficiencies, family dynamics, HSPs' working conditions, and vaccination site accessibility. Context drivers included effective communication, mobilization, and incentives. Differences between high and low coverage camps in Cox's Bazar included variations in HSPs' knowledge, communication strategies, incentive use, and stakeholder collaboration.

Discussion

For better vaccination coverage in the camps, context-related changes regarding collaboration, health workforce and the use of incentives seem necessary. Caregivers' mistrust toward vaccination needs to be considered under the social and historical background of the Rohingya community, and further addressed with targeted communication and campaigning.
Enhancing telehealth services development in Pakistani healthcare sectors through examining various medical service quality characteristics
Authors: Saifullah  , Ma Zhiqiang , Li Mingxing , Maqbool Muhammad Qasim , Chen Jing
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The telehealth service increased attention both during and after the Covid-19 outbreak. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of research in developing countries, including Pakistan. Hence, the objective of this study was to examine telehealth service quality dimensions to promote the telehealth behavior intention and sustainable growth of telehealth in Pakistan.

Methods

This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design. Data were collected from doctors who were delivering telehealth services through a well-designed questionnaire. To examine the hypothesis of the study, we employed the Smart PLS structural equation modeling program, namely version 0.4.

Results

The study findings indicate that medical service quality, affordability, information quality, waiting time, and safety have a positive impact on the intention to engage in telehealth behavior. Furthermore, the adoption of telehealth behavior has a significant favorable effect on the actual utilization of telehealth services, which in turn has a highly good impact on sustainable development.

Conclusion

The study determined that telehealth services effectively decrease the amount of time and money spent on travel, while still offering convenient access to healthcare. Furthermore, telehealth has the potential to revolutionize payment methods, infrastructure, and staffing in the healthcare industry. Implementing a well-structured telehealth service model can yield beneficial results for a nation and its regulatory efforts in the modern age of technology.
Bodies and Bites: a medical school program that teaches anatomy, physiology, and nutrition to elementary school kids
Authors: Butterfield Kimberly , Wesley Mary , Carvalho Helena , Holt Emily , Toy Serkan , Powell Courtney , Trinkle David , Rau Kristofer K.
Published: July 2024

Undergraduate medical students who participate in community outreach programs gain a multitude of benefits that impact not only their professional development but also the well-being of the communities they serve. At the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine (VTCSOM), students have the opportunity to volunteer in the “Bodies and Bites” program at the West End Center for Youth, an after-school educational center that serves K-12 children in Roanoke, Virginia. The purpose of Bodies and Bites is to teach elementary school children in 2nd to 5th grade how their bodies work and how to keep them healthy through good nutrition and exercise. All sessions are led by VTCSOM medical students and graduate students from our partnering academic institution, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI). Each week, the children and Health Professions students explore a different topic related to human anatomy and physiology using anatomical models, small group discussions, and hands-on activities. At the end of each session, the participants create a healthy snack related to the day’s topic. The overall goal of the present study was to assess the perception of the Bodies and Bites program from the view of our student volunteers, and the 4th and 5th graders who attend the West End Center. Now in its 6th year, Bodies and Bites continues to be popular as a voluntary program among our Health Professions students, and is well received by the West End Center and the elementary school children they serve. Our students and community mutually benefit from this program, with the former having an opportunity to briefly disengage from the rigors of their studies while gaining valuable skills in science communication and inspiring children to pursue fields in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine (STEMM), and the latter having fun while learning about their bodies and discovering ways to improve their health.
The impact of arts on prescription on individual health and wellbeing: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Jensen Anita , Holt Nicola , Honda Sayaka , Bungay Hilary
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The evidence-base for the impact of participating in the arts for different aspects of health and wellbeing is growing. Arts on Prescription has gained increasing recognition as a method for fostering connections among individuals and communities, however, to date no systematic review of the impact on individual health and wellbeing has been conducted. This review aims to provide an understanding of individual health and wellbeing outcomes from participation in Arts on Prescription programmes.

Methods

Major electronic databases were systematically searched, including Cochrane Library; Web of Science; ProQuest; CINAHL; Arts & Humanities; Ebsocohost; Pubmed; PsycINFO. Other databases were also used: Google Scholar and websites of specific organizations, e.g., NHS Evidence, Kings Fund, Health foundation, Nuffield Trust and NESTA and University of Florida Arts-in Medicine Repository. The review used PRISMA reporting structures. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) templates were used for qualitative and quantitative studies, and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for studies with a mixed methods protocol to assess quality and risk of bias. A narrative review of the qualitative data was conducted. For quantitative outcomes, a meta-analysis for studies that met inclusion criteria was conducted, and a narrative review made of secondary and heterogeneous outcomes and approaches.

Results

7,805 records were identified but only 25 records were included as studies with a focus on the impact on individual health and wellbeing. Studies were conducted in Australia, Denmark, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States. Programmes were held in community settings, arts venues, GP surgeries, primary healthcare settings, and one school. Most interventions varied from 8 to 10 weeks and included a wide range of different arts activities. Qualitative themes included social benefits, psychological benefits and progression opportunities. The meta-analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in wellbeing, and the narrative review identified promising outcomes that require further evidential support (e.g., reductions in anxiety and depression).

Discussion

Arts on Prescription programmes are an appropriate intervention for improving psychosocial wellbeing, providing both social and psychological benefits as well as progression opportunities. We discuss the various qualitative and quantitative outcomes, along with potential ‘active ingredients’ and barriers to participation (physical, psychological and social).

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023408974, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023408974.
The role of the purposeful shared decision making model in vascularized composite allotransplantation
Authors: Hargraves Ian G. , Boehmer Kasey R. , Amer Hatem , Kennedy Cassie C. , Griffin Joan M. , Finnie Dawn M. , Montori Victor M. , Smither Fantley Clay , Mardini Samir , Moran Steven , Jowsey-Gregoire Sheila
Published: July 2024

For some patients who have lost the lower part of an arm, hand transplant offers the possibility of receiving a new limb with varying degrees of sensation and function. This procedure, Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA), is demanding for patients and their care community and comes with significant risks. As a high-stakes decision, patients interested in VCA are subject to extensive clinical evaluation and eligibility decision making. Patients and their care community must also decide if hand transplant (versus other approaches including rehabilitative therapies with or without prosthesis) is right for them. This decision making is often confusing and practically and emotionally fraught. It is complicated in four ways: by the numerous beneficial and harmful potential effects of hand transplant or other options, the number of people affected by VCA and the diverse or conflicting positions that they may hold, the practical demands and limitations of the patient's life situation, and the existential significance of limb loss and transplant for the patient's being. Patients need support in working through these treatment determining issues. Evaluation does not provide this support. Shared decision making (SDM) is a method of care that helps patients think, talk, and feel their way through to the right course of action for them. However, traditional models of SDM that focus on weighing possible beneficial and harmful effects of treatments are ill-equipped to tackle the heterogeneous issues of VCA. A recent model, Purposeful SDM extends the range of troubling issues that SDM can help support beyond opposing effects, to include conflicting positions, life situations, and existential being. In this paper we explore the pertinence of these issues in VCA, methods of SDM that each require of clinicians, the benefits of supporting patients with the breadth of issues in their unique problematic situations, implications for outcomes and practice, and extend the theory of the Purposeful SDM model itself based on the issues present in hand transplant decision making.
Evaluating community adoption and participation in water and sanitation interventions in the Bongo District, Ghana
Authors: Atengdem Ruth Amaabadek , Abobi Seth Mensah , Alhassan Elliot Haruna
Published: July 2024

Access to improved water and sanitation is a major conduit to meeting global development goals. This has resulted in the proliferation of various improved water and sanitation interventions in most communities of the world. Little evidence, however, exists in Ghana to reveal the extent to which these interventions are being adopted and sustained by the communities they are intended to benefit. This study, therefore, sought to assess the adoption of water and sanitation interventions and their sustainability. The mixed method approach, guided by the concurrent mixed method design was implemented in the Bongo District. Quantitative data were obtained from 389 sampled households in the District with the aid of a survey. Thereafter, univariate and bivariate statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data with the aid of STATA version 15. The qualitative data on the other hand was collected from officials of the District Water and Sanitation Management Team (DWSMT) and members of the water and sanitation management committees at the community level through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The qualitative data was analyzed manually using thematic analysis. The study found a high adoption rate of both water and sanitation interventions in the Bongo District. The household demographic characteristics that were found to have a strong positive association with the adoption of improved water or sanitation interventions included the sex of household head, age, level of education and household size among others. Major factors influencing the adoption of water and sanitation interventions found included the knowledge of the derived benefits of the facilities and education on the use of the facilities. The study also found that as part of activities geared towards sustainability, most community members were involved in deciding the appropriateness of these water and sanitation facilities; siting of the facilities; and cash contributions. The study, therefore, concludes that the extent of adoption of water and sanitation in the Bongo District is relatively high and communities were involved to some extent to engender the sustainability of the facilities.
Concurrent validity of countermovement and squat jump height assessed with a contact mat and force platform in professional soccer players
Authors: Ruf Ludwig , Altmann Stefan , Müller Katharina , Rehborn Anja , Schindler Fabian , Woll Alexander , Härtel Sascha
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the concurrent validity of a contact mat against force plates to measure jump height in countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) in professional soccer players.

Methods

23 male professional soccer players performed the CMJ and SJ, which were concurrently recorded using a portable contact mat (SmartJump) and a portable dual force plate system (ForceDecks). Equivalence testing between both systems (contact mat vs. force plate) and the two methods (impulse-momentum vs. flight-time and flight-time vs. flight-time) was performed compared to equivalence bounds of ±1.1 cm for the CMJ and ±1.6 cm for the SJ. Additionally, 95% Limits of Agreement (LoA) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were computed.

Results

Mean differences for the impulse-momentum vs. flight-time comparison for CMJ [3.2 cm, 95% CI (2.3–4.1)] and SJ [2.7 cm, (1.8–3.6)] were non-equivalent between both systems. LoA were larger than the equivalence bunds for CMJ and SJ, while ICCs were good [CMJ, 0.89, (0.76–0.95)] and excellent [SJ, 0.91, (0.79–0.96)]. As for the flight-time vs. flight-time comparison, mean differences were non-equivalent for the CMJ [1.0 cm (0.8 to 1.2 cm)] and equivalent for the SJ [0.9 cm (0.7–1.1 cm)]. LoA were narrower than the equivalence bounds for CMJ and SJ, while ICCs were excellent [CMJ, 0.995, 95% CI (0.989–0.998); SJ, 0.997, 95% CI (0.993–0.997)].

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the SmartJump contact mat cannot be used interchangeably with the ForceDecks force platform to measure jump height for the CMJ and SJ.
Calibration to Differentiate Power Output by the Manual Wheelchair User from the Pushrim-Activated Power-Assisted Wheel on a Force-Instrumented Computer-Controlled Wheelchair Ergometer
Authors: Braaksma Jelmer , Ferlinghetti Enrico , de Groot Sonja , Lancini Matteo , Houdijk Han , Vegter Riemer J. K.
Published: July 2024

To examine the biomechanical demands of manual wheelchair propulsion, it is crucial to determine the wheelchair user’s (WCU) force for propulsion technique parameter calculation. When using a pushrim-activated power-assisted wheelchair (PAPAW) on a wheelchair ergometer, a combined propulsion force from the WCU and PAPAW is exerted. To understand PAPAW’s assistance and distinguish the WCU’s force application from the force exerted by the PAPAW, both propulsion components must be assessed separately. In this study, a calibration of the PAPAW on an ergometer was developed to achieve this separation. The calibration consists of five steps: (I) Collecting data on force and velocity measured from the ergometer, along with electrical current and velocity from the PAPAW. (II) Synchronizing the velocity signals of the wheelchair ergometer and PAPAW using cross-correlation. (III) Calibrating the PAPAW’s electromotors to convert electrical current (mA) to force (N). A product-specific motor constant of 0.30, provided an average ICC of 0.563, indicating a moderate agreement between the raw ergometer data (N) and the motor constant-converted drive-rim (PAPAW) data (from mA to N). (IV) Subtracting the PAPAW’s force signal from the ergometer’s measured force to isolate forces generated by the WCU. (V) Using markerless motion capture to determine and validate the phase of hand contact with the handrim. This technical note provides an example of PAPAW calibration for researchers and clinicians. It emphasizes the importance of integrating this calibration into the development of PAPAW devices to reveal the complex interaction between PAPAW and WCU during wheelchair propulsion.
Digital Twin System of Pest Management Driven by Data and Model Fusion
Authors: Dai Min , Shen Yutian , Li Xiaoyin , Liu Jingjing , Zhang Shanwen , Miao Hong
Published: July 2024

Protecting crops from pests is a major issue in the current agricultural production system. The agricultural digital twin system, as an emerging product of modern agricultural development, can effectively achieve intelligent control of pest management systems. In response to the current problems of heavy use of pesticides in pest management and over-reliance on managers’ personal experience with pepper plants, this paper proposes a digital twin system that monitors changes in aphid populations, enabling timely and effective pest control interventions. The digital twin system is developed for pest management driven by data and model fusion. First, a digital twin framework is presented to manage insect pests in the whole process of crop growth. Then, a digital twin model is established to predict the number of pests based on the random forest algorithm optimized by the genetic algorithm; a pest control intervention based on a twin data search strategy is designed and the decision optimization of pest management is conducted. Finally, a case study is carried out to verify the feasibility of the system for the growth state of pepper and pepper pests. The experimental results show that the virtual and real interactive feedback of the pepper aphid management system is achieved. It can obtain prediction accuracy of 88.01% with the training set and prediction accuracy of 85.73% with the test set. The application of the prediction model to the decision-making objective function can improve economic efficiency by more than 20%. In addition, the proposed approach is superior to the manual regulatory method in pest management. This system prioritizes detecting population trends over precise species identification, providing a practical tool for integrated pest management (IPM).
Non-Technical Skills Needed for the Current and Next-Generation Agricultural Workforce
Authors: McDonald Nicole , Luke Jennifer , Cosby Amy
Published: July 2024

This study highlights the need to recognize and train agricultural workers in essential non-technical skills to enhance workforce effectiveness and sustainability within the agriculture sector. Focused on the Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia, the research involved initial semi-structured interviews with three agricultural training managers to identify relevant non-technical skills for food and fibre workplaces. Representatives from twenty Gippsland food and fibre businesses were then surveyed to rate these identified skills across different workforce segments: (a) seasonal workers, (b) entry-level workers, (c) supervisors, and (d) managers. Descriptive statistics, including frequency counts, means, and standard deviations, were used to analyze the responses. Employer ratings for skill needs were weighted against the number of workers employed in each workforce segment. Key non-technical skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and cross-cultural competence were found to be in high demand, particularly among seasonal and entry-level workers. However, there is a significant gap between the importance of these skills and their prioritization in accredited training programs. Addressing this gap is crucial for investing in a skilled and adaptable agricultural sector that is competitive and sustainable. The theoretical understandings derived from this study’s results warrant further research and replication in diverse commodity sectors and locations within Australia and internationally.
Modeling Reliability Analysis for the Branch-Based Irrigation Water Demands Due to Uncertainties in the Measured Surface Runoff
Authors: Wu Shiang-Jen , Yang Han-Yuan
Published: July 2024

This study aims to model the uncertainty and reliability quantification of estimating the planning irrigation water demands in the multi-canal irrigation zone, named the RA_IWD_Canal model. The proposed RA_IWD_Canal could estimate the zone-based and branch-based water demands and quantify their uncertainties and reliabilities via the weighted frequency quantile curves. The historical planning irrigation water demands and measured surface runoff from 2019 to 2024 in the Zhudong irrigation zone are utilized in the model development and application. Using the proposed RA_IWD_Canal model, the estimated branch-based irrigation water demands exhibit a significant variation (on average, from 0.02 m3/s to 1.7 m3/s) in time and space attributed to uncertainties in the historical gauged surface runoff. Also, the Zhudong Canal zone is demonstrated to be sufficiently supplied irrigation water subject to existing introduced water demands with a high reliability of 0.85; instead, the associated branches have considerable difficulty achieving the expected irrigation efficiency based on the desired water requirements with low reliability (nearly 0.25). To keep all branches in the irrigation zone consistent in irrigation efficiency, the probabilistic-based water demands could be introduced via the proposed RA_IWD_Canal model with the desired reliability.
Progress in Research on Prevention and Control of Crop Fungal Diseases in the Context of Climate Change
Authors: Zhou Jien , Zhang Xueyan , Qu Zheng , Zhang Chenchen , Wang Feng , Gao Tongguo , Yao Yanpo , Liang Junfeng
Published: July 2024

With an advancement in global climate change, the frequency of extreme climatic events, such as high temperature, drought, and flooding, has increased. Meanwhile, outbreaks of crop fungal diseases are becoming more frequent and serious, and crop growth and food production are seriously threatened. This article focuses on the climate change-related aggravation of crop fungal diseases; summarizes the progress in research on the impact of climate change on soil-borne fungal diseases, air-borne fungal diseases, and seed-borne fungal diseases; and discusses the conventional methods for diagnosing crop fungal diseases. On the basis of comparative analysis, the concept of ecological control is proposed; ecological control can maintain the dynamic balance of crop–biology–soil, provide a good environment for the healthy growth of crops, and provide a new fungal disease control method in the context of climate change.
Combating Malaria with Vaccines: Insights from the One Health Framework
Authors: Sutanto Henry
Published: July 2024

Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with significant efforts directed towards developing effective vaccines to curb its impact. The One Health concept, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and combating this disease. This review examines the development of malaria vaccine through the lens of the One Health framework, highlighting the integration of human, vector, and environmental factors in the fight against malaria. We discuss the current landscape of malaria vaccine development, including the deployment of the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine and the progress of other candidates such as the R21/Matrix-M and PfSPZ vaccine. The challenges posed by the complex lifecycle of the malaria parasite, its genetic diversity, and the environmental factors influencing transmission are explored. This review also discusses emerging technologies and innovations that could enhance vaccine efficacy and delivery. Additionally, we consider ethical, social, and economic factors critical to the successful implementation of vaccination programs. In concluding, this review underscores the importance of adopting a One Health approach to malaria vaccine development, advocating for integrated efforts to address the multifaceted challenges of malaria control and eradication.
Differential Effects of Three Medium-Chain Fatty Acids on Mitochondrial Quality Control and Skeletal Muscle Maturation
Authors: Nishida Ryoichi , Nukaga Shota , Kawahara Isao , Miyagawa Yoshihiro , Goto Kei , Nakashima Chie , Luo Yi , Sasaki Takamitsu , Fujii Kiyomu , Ohmori Hitoshi , Ogata Ruiko , Mori Shiori , Fujiwara-Tani Rina , Kuniyasu Hiroki
Published: July 2024

Nutritional interventions are one focus of sarcopenia treatment. As medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are oxidized in the mitochondria and produce energy through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), they are key parts of nutritional interventions. We investigated the in vitro effects of three types of MCFA, caprylic acid (C8), capric acid (C10), and lauric acid (C12), in skeletal muscle cells. Compared with C10 and C12, C8 promoted mitophagy through the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced kinase 1-Parkin pathway and increased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-α and dynamin-related protein 1 to reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress and promote OXPHOS. Furthermore, the expression of myogenic differentiation 1 and myosin heavy chain increased in myotubes, thus promoting muscle differentiation and maturation. These results suggest that C8 improves mitochondrial quality and promotes skeletal muscle maturation; in contrast, C10 and C12 poorly promoted mitochondrial quality control and oxidative stress and suppressed energy production. Future animal experiments are required to establish the usefulness of C8 for nutritional interventions for sarcopenia.
OxInflammatory Responses in the Wound Healing Process: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lopes Fernanda Barbosa , Sarandy Mariáurea Matias , Novaes Rômulo Dias , Valacchi Giuseppe , Gonçalves Reggiani Vilela
Published: July 2024

Significant sums are spent every year to find effective treatments to control inflammation and speed up the repair of damaged skin. This study investigated the main mechanisms involved in the skin wound cure. Consequently, it offered guidance to develop new therapies to control OxInflammation and infection and decrease functional loss and cost issues. This systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines, with a structured search in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science databases, analyzing 23 original studies. Bias analysis and study quality were assessed using the SYRCLE tool (Prospero number is CRD262 936). Our results highlight the activation of membrane receptors (IFN-δ, TNF-α, toll-like) in phagocytes, especially macrophages, during early wound healing. The STAT1, IP3, and NF-kβ pathways are positively regulated, while Ca2+ mobilization correlates with ROS production and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This pathway activation leads to the proteolytic cleavage of caspase-1, releasing IL-1β and IL-18, which are responsible for immune modulation and vasodilation. Mediators such as IL-1, iNOS, TNF-α, and TGF-β are released, influencing pro- and anti-inflammatory cascades, increasing ROS levels, and inducing the oxidation of lipids, proteins, and DNA. During healing, the respiratory burst depletes antioxidant defenses (SOD, CAT, GST), creating a pro-oxidative environment. The IFN-δ pathway, ROS production, and inflammatory markers establish a positive feedback loop, recruiting more polymorphonuclear cells and reinforcing the positive interaction between oxidative stress and inflammation. This process is crucial because, in the immune system, the vicious positive cycle between ROS, the oxidative environment, and, above all, the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome inappropriately triggers hypoxia, increases ROS levels, activates pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibits the antioxidant action and resolution of anti-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to the evolution of chronic inflammation and tissue damage.