bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Birth during COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy and Spain: A Thematic Analysis
Authors: Colaceci Sofia , Anderson Gloria , Ricciuto Veronica , Montinaro Denise , Alazraki Giorgia , Mena-Tudela Desirée
Published: June 2022

Becoming parents during the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been a challenge. The purpose of this study was to describe the impact of the pandemic on new and expectant parents in both Italy and Spain. A descriptive qualitative study was carried out by collecting social media posts written by parents between March 2020 and April 2021. The posts were inserted in a data collection form and assessed separately by two authors. The coding was performed manually using the long table analysis method and a thematic analysis was performed. Three main themes were identified: (1) care; (2) overcoming difficulties and problem-solving strategies; and (3) legislation and anti-COVID-19 measures. The main issues for parents were the limited access of partners to antenatal care services and mother–newborn separation. Due to restrictive measures, many parents adopted different coping skills. Some hospitals were able to maintain high standards of care; however, a lot of discretion in legislation and the application of anti-COVID-19 measures in healthcare services was perceived by parents. The COVID-19 pandemic has heavily affected the way parents experienced pregnancy and birth. Becoming parents during the pandemic has exacerbated some fears that usually characterize this event, but it has also triggered new ones, especially in the first months.
Nursing Care Plan for Patients with Hajdu–Cheney Syndrome
Authors: Cortés-Martín Jonathan , Díaz-Rodríguez Lourdes , Piqueras-Sola Beatriz , Sánchez-García Juan Carlos , Menor-Rodríguez María José , Rodríguez-Blanque Raquel
Published: June 2022

Hajdu–Cheney syndrome is a rare genetic disease. Its main features include phenotypic variability, age-dependent progression and the presence of acroosteolysis of the distal phalanges and generalized osteoporosis, which have significant disabling potential. Currently, there is no effective curative treatment, so nursing care is essential to ensure the maintenance of the quality of life of these patients. The main objective of this study was to establish a specific standardized nursing care plan using the NANDA–NIC–NOC taxonomy. The application of a care plan as such would improve the quality of life of patients affected by this rare disease, will contribute to increasing healthcare professionals’ knowledge on this matter and will support future studies on this disease.
Community Perspectives and Environmental Justice Issues in an Unincorporated Black Township
Authors: Moore Teriana , Payne-Foster Pamela , Oliver JoAnn S. , Spears Ellen Griffith , Spencer Christopher H. , Maye Jacqueline , Allen Rebecca S.
Published: June 2022

Through each era, the southeastern United States was and continues to be an epicenter for industrial companies to establish factories and plants. Though this development attracts economic gain for the companies and surrounding areas, low-income and predominantly Black communities bear the brunt of the environmental consequences while frequently remaining stagnant economically. This qualitative, community-based participatory research study grew out of a larger study designed to recruit lay community advisors from communities labeled as hard to reach in research. We focus on Holt, Alabama, an unincorporated community in the southeastern United States region. The primary goal of this research inquiry is to thematically analyze community interviews stemming from a topic of research, practice, and policy interest to community members: the effects of industrial pollution on Holt citizens’ daily lives. Content analysis of focus-group transcripts revealed four emergent themes, including: (1) how the pollution affects their water, soil, and air quality; (2) illness related to pollution; (3) community engagement and empowerment; and (4) suggestions regarding what government officials could do to address this area of need. Building upon the prior research regarding environmental justice, human flourishing, and the definition of nurturing environments, suggestions are made regarding the creation, implementation, and maintenance of project advisory councils focused on issues of environmental justice. Community advocacy and empowerment as well as community and scientific partnerships are imperative to alleviate problems associated with environmental justice.
Effects of Problem-Based Learning on the Problem-Solving Ability and Self-Efficacy of Students Majoring in Dental Hygiene
Authors: Choi Jin-Sun , Bae Soo-Myoung , Shin Sun-Jung , Shin Bo-Mi , Lee Hyo-Jin
Published: June 2022

This study developed a problem-based learning (PBL) module to improve integrated thinking and problem-solving ability in students of dental hygiene. After applying PBL, the study tested the improvement in the problem-solving ability and self-efficacy of students. The subjects were 31 fourth-year students of the Department of Dental Hygiene at G University. The PBL process was applied to three topics for 15 weeks, and the tools for evaluating problem-solving ability and self-efficacy were reconstructed and used before and after the application to examine the effects of the module. The result indicates that the mean of problem-solving ability (32 detailed items) increased from 3.37 to 3.65 (an increase of 0.28) after classes (p < 0.001). Alternatively, the average for self-efficacy (22 detailed questions) increased from 0.21 to 2.89 (p < 0.05; an increase of 2.67). The study also confirmed the correlation between problem-solving ability and the total posttest score for self-efficacy (p < 0.001). Thus, the problem-solving ability and self-efficacy of learners were improved in the class to which PBL was applied. These improvements exerted a significant effect on the improvement of problem-solving ability. This finding confirmed the effect of the PBL method on dental hygiene education.
Reclaiming Indigenous Health in the US: Moving beyond the Social Determinants of Health
Authors: Carroll Stephanie Russo , Suina Michele , Jäger Mary Beth , Black Jessica , Cornell Stephen , Gonzales Angela A. , Jorgensen Miriam , Palmanteer-Holder Nancy Lynn , De La Rosa Jennifer S. , Teufel-Shone Nicolette I.
Published: June 2022

The lack of literature on Indigenous conceptions of health and the social determinants of health (SDH) for US Indigenous communities limits available information for Indigenous nations as they set policy and allocate resources to improve the health of their citizens. In 2015, eight scholars from tribal communities and mainstream educational institutions convened to examine: the limitations of applying the World Health Organization’s (WHO) SDH framework in Indigenous communities; Indigenizing the WHO SDH framework; and Indigenous conceptions of a healthy community. Participants critiqued the assumptions within the WHO SDH framework that did not cohere with Indigenous knowledges and epistemologies and created a schematic for conceptualizing health and categorizing its determinants. As Indigenous nations pursue a policy role in health and seek to improve the health and wellness of their nations’ citizens, definitions of Indigenous health and well-being should be community-driven and Indigenous-nation based. Policies and practices for Indigenous nations and Indigenous communities should reflect and arise from sovereignty and a comprehensive understanding of the nations and communities’ conceptions of health and its determinants beyond the SDH.
Research on the Relationship between Chinese Elderly Health Status, Social Security, and Depression
Authors: Shao Min , Chen Jianwei , Ma Chao
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: To explore the relationship between health status, social security status, and the occurrence of depression in older adults and provide a basis for mental health care services for the elderly population; (2) Methods: This study used the 2018 China Health and Senior Care Tracking Survey (CHARLS) data to select 8383 older people aged over 60 years old as the research subjects. The two-category Logistic model was used to analyze the research problem; (3) Results: Older adults with depressive tendencies accounted for 34.1% of the total older adults. The incidence of depression among female older adults reached 41.51%. The risk of depression in the elderly population was 40.3% lower in males than in females (OR = 0.597, 95% CI: 0.539–0.662). Self-rated health status, physical disability, and receipt of pensions affected the incidence of depression in older adults (all p < 0.05); (4) Conclusions: Focus on and intervene in the mental status of elderly females and disabled elderly people. Provide mental and economic support and mental health care services to the elderly at the family and social levels. Promote the healthy development of the mental health of the elderly and promote active aging.
The Natural History of CNGB1-Related Retinopathy: A Longitudinal Phenotypic Analysis
Authors: Jackson Daniel J. , Dubis Adam M. , Moosajee Mariya
Published: June 2022

Cyclic nucleotide-gated channel β 1 (CNGB1) encodes a subunit of the rod cyclic nucleotide-gated channel. Pathogenic variants in CNGB1 are responsible for 4% of autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Several treatment strategies show promise for treating inherited retinal degenerations, however relevant metrics of progression and sensitive clinical trial endpoints are needed to assess therapeutic efficacy. This study reports the natural history of CNGB1-related RP with a longitudinal phenotypic analysis of 33 molecularly-confirmed patients with a mean follow-up period of 4.5 ± 3.9 years (range 0–17). The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of the right eye was 0.31 ± 0.43 logMAR at baseline and 0.47 ± 0.63 logMAR at the final visit over the study period. The ellipsoid zone (EZ) length was measurable in at least one eye of 23 patients and had a mean rate of constriction of 178 ± 161 µm per year (range 1.0–661 µm), with 57% of patients having a decrease in EZ length of greater than 250 µm in a simulated two-year trial period. Hyperautofluorescent outer ring (hyperAF) area was measurable in 17 patients, with 10 patients not displaying a ring phenotype. The results support previous findings of CNGB1-related RP being a slowly progressive disease with patients maintaining visual acuity. Prospective deep phenotyping studies assessing multimodal retinal imaging and functional measures are now required to determine clinical endpoints to be used in a trial.
DMT1 Protects Macrophages from Salmonella Infection by Controlling Cellular Iron Turnover and Lipocalin 2 Expression
Authors: Grander Manuel , Hoffmann Alexander , Seifert Markus , Demetz Egon , Grubwieser Philipp , Pfeifhofer-Obermair Christa , Haschka David , Weiss Günter
Published: June 2022

Macrophages are at the center of innate pathogen control and iron recycling. Divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) is essential for the uptake of non-transferrin-bound iron (NTBI) into macrophages and for the transfer of transferrin-bound iron from the endosome to the cytoplasm. As the control of cellular iron trafficking is central for the control of infection with siderophilic pathogens such as Salmonella Typhimurium, a Gram-negative bacterium residing within the phagosome of macrophages, we examined the potential role of DMT1 for infection control. Bone marrow derived macrophages lacking DMT1 (DMT1fl/flLysMCre(+)) present with reduced NTBI uptake and reduced levels of the iron storage protein ferritin, the iron exporter ferroportin and, surprisingly, of the iron uptake protein transferrin receptor. Further, DMT1-deficient macrophages have an impaired control of Salmonella Typhimurium infection, paralleled by reduced levels of the peptide lipocalin-2 (LCN2). LCN2 exerts anti-bacterial activity upon binding of microbial siderophores but also facilitates systemic and cellular hypoferremia. Remarkably, nifedipine, a pharmacological DMT1 activator, stimulates LCN2 expression in RAW264.7 macrophages, confirming its DMT1-dependent regulation. In addition, the absence of DMT1 increases the availability of iron for Salmonella upon infection and leads to increased bacterial proliferation and persistence within macrophages. Accordingly, mice harboring a macrophage-selective DMT1 disruption demonstrate reduced survival following Salmonella infection. This study highlights the importance of DMT1 in nutritional immunity and the significance of iron delivery for the control of infection with siderophilic bacteria.
Respiratory and Intestinal Microbiota in Pediatric Lung Diseases—Current Evidence of the Gut–Lung Axis
Authors: Stricker Sebastian , Hain Torsten , Chao Cho-Ming , Rudloff Silvia
Published: June 2022

The intestinal microbiota is known to influence local immune homeostasis in the gut and to shape the developing immune system towards elimination of pathogens and tolerance towards self-antigens. Even though the lung was considered sterile for a long time, recent evidence using next-generation sequencing techniques confirmed that the lower airways possess their own local microbiota. Since then, there has been growing evidence that the local respiratory and intestinal microbiota play a role in acute and chronic pediatric lung diseases. The concept of the so-called gut–lung axis describing the mutual influence of local microbiota on distal immune mechanisms was established. The mechanisms by which the intestinal microbiota modulates the systemic immune response include the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and signaling through pattern recognition receptors (PRR) and segmented filamentous bacteria. Those factors influence the secretion of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines by immune cells and further modulate differentiation and recruitment of T cells to the lung. This article does not only aim at reviewing recent mechanistic evidence from animal studies regarding the gut–lung axis, but also summarizes current knowledge from observational studies and human trials investigating the role of the respiratory and intestinal microbiota and their modulation by pre-, pro-, and synbiotics in pediatric lung diseases.
New Developments and Possibilities in Reanalysis and Reinterpretation of Whole Exome Sequencing Datasets for Unsolved Rare Diseases Using Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Setty Samarth Thonta , Scott-Boyer Marie-Pier , Cuppens Tania , Droit Arnaud
Published: June 2022

Rare diseases impact the lives of 300 million people in the world. Rapid advances in bioinformatics and genomic technologies have enabled the discovery of causes of 20–30% of rare diseases. However, most rare diseases have remained as unsolved enigmas to date. Newer tools and availability of high throughput sequencing data have enabled the reanalysis of previously undiagnosed patients. In this review, we have systematically compiled the latest developments in the discovery of the genetic causes of rare diseases using machine learning methods. Importantly, we have detailed methods available to reanalyze existing whole exome sequencing data of unsolved rare diseases. We have identified different reanalysis methodologies to solve problems associated with sequence alterations/mutations, variation re-annotation, protein stability, splice isoform malfunctions and oligogenic analysis. In addition, we give an overview of new developments in the field of rare disease research using whole genome sequencing data and other omics.
A Comprehensive Review on Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Breeding for Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Climate Change Resilience
Authors: Arriagada Osvin , Cacciuttolo Felipe , Cabeza Ricardo A. , Carrasco Basilio , Schwember Andrés R.
Published: June 2022

Chickpea is one of the most important pulse crops worldwide, being an excellent source of protein. It is grown under rain-fed conditions averaging yields of 1 t/ha, far from its potential of 6 t/ha under optimum conditions. The combined effects of heat, cold, drought, and salinity affect species productivity. In this regard, several physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms are reviewed to confer tolerance to abiotic stress. A large collection of nearly 100,000 chickpea accessions is the basis of breeding programs, and important advances have been achieved through conventional breeding, such as germplasm introduction, gene/allele introgression, and mutagenesis. In parallel, advances in molecular biology and high-throughput sequencing have allowed the development of specific molecular markers for the genus Cicer, facilitating marker-assisted selection for yield components and abiotic tolerance. Further, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics have permitted the identification of specific genes, proteins, and metabolites associated with tolerance to abiotic stress of chickpea. Furthermore, some promising results have been obtained in studies with transgenic plants and with the use of gene editing to obtain drought-tolerant chickpea. Finally, we propose some future lines of research that may be useful to obtain chickpea genotypes tolerant to abiotic stress in a scenario of climate change.
Evolutionary Analysis and Functional Identification of Ancient Brassinosteroid Receptors in Ceratopteris richardii
Authors: Zheng Bowen , Xing Kaixin , Zhang Jiaojiao , Liu Hui , Ali Khawar , Li Wenjuan , Bai Qunwei , Ren Hongyan
Published: June 2022

Phytohormones play an important role in the adaptive evolution of terrestrial plants. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are essential hormones that regulate multiple aspects of plant growth and development in angiosperms, but the presence of BR signaling in non-seed plants such as ferns remains unknown. Here, we found that BR promotes the growth of Ceratopteris richardii, while the synthetic inhibitor PCZ inhibits the growth. Using full-length transcriptome sequencing, we identified four BRI1-like receptors. By constructing chimeric receptors, we found that the kinase domains of these four receptors could trigger BR downstream signaling. Further, the extracellular domains of two receptors were functionally interchangeable with that of BRI1. In addition, we identified a co-receptor, CtSERK1, that could phosphorylate with CtBRL2s in vitro. Together, these proved the presence of a receptor complex in Ceratopteris richardii that might perceive BR and activate downstream hormone signaling. Our results shed light on the biological and molecular mechanisms of BR signaling in ferns and the role of BR hormone signaling in the adaptive evolution of terrestrial plants.
Unraveling the DNA Methylation in the rDNA Foci in Mutagen-Induced Brachypodium distachyon Micronuclei
Authors: Bara-Halama Adrianna W. , Idziak-Helmcke Dominika , Kwasniewska Jolanta
Published: June 2022

Many years have passed since micronuclei were first observed then accepted as an indicator of the effect of mutagens. However, the possible mechanisms of their formation and elimination from the cell are still not fully understood. Various stresses, including mutagens, can alter gene expression through changes in DNA methylation in plants. In this study we demonstrate for the first time DNA methylation in the foci of 5S and 35S rDNA sequences in individual Brachypodium distachyon micronuclei that are induced by mutagenic treatment with maleic acid hydrazide (MH). The impact of MH on global epigenetic modifications in nuclei and micronuclei has been studied in plants before; however, no in situ analyses of DNA methylation in specific DNA sequence sites are known. To address this problem, we used sequential immunodetection of 5-methylcytosine and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with 5S and 25S rDNA probes on the non-dividing cells of B. distachyon. Such investigations into the presence or absence of DNA methylation within specific DNA sequences are extremely important in plant mutagenesis in the light of altering gene expression.
Expanded Potential of the Polyamine Analogue SBP-101 (Diethyl Dihydroxyhomospermine) as a Modulator of Polyamine Metabolism and Cancer Therapeutic
Authors: Holbert Cassandra E. , Foley Jackson R. , Murray Stewart Tracy , Casero Robert A.
Published: June 2022

Naturally occurring polyamines are absolutely required for cellular growth and proliferation. Many neoplastic cells are reliant on elevated polyamine levels and maintain these levels through dysregulated polyamine metabolism. The modulation of polyamine metabolism is thus a promising avenue for cancer therapeutics and has been attempted with numerous molecules, including enzyme inhibitors and polyamine analogues. SBP-101 (diethyl dihydroxyhomospermine) is a spermine analogue that has shown efficacy in slowing pancreatic tumor progression both in vitro and in vivo; however, the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. We determined the effects of the SBP-101 treatment on a variety of cancer cell types in vitro, including lung, pancreatic, and ovarian. We evaluated the activity of enzymes involved in polyamine metabolism and the effect on intracellular polyamine pools following the SBP-101 treatment. The SBP-101 treatment produced a modest but variable increase in polyamine catabolism; however, a robust downregulation of the activity of the biosynthetic enzyme, ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), was seen across all of the cell types studied and indicates that SBP-101 likely exerts its effect predominately through the downregulation of ODC, with a minor upregulation of catabolism. Our in vitro work indicated that SBP-101 was most toxic in the tested ovarian cell lines. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of SBP-101 as a monotherapy in the immunosuppressive VDID8+ murine ovarian model. Mice treated with SBP-101 demonstrated a delay in tumor progression, a decrease in the overall tumor burden, and a marked increase in median survival.
Fall Applications of Ethephon Modulates Gene Networks Controlling Bud Development during Dormancy in Peach (Prunus Persica)
Authors: Liu Jianyang , Islam Md Tabibul , Laliberte Suzanne , Haak David C. , Sherif Sherif M.
Published: June 2022

Ethephon (ET) is an ethylene-releasing plant growth regulator (PGR) that can delay the bloom time in Prunus, thus reducing the risk of spring frost, which is exacerbated by global climate change. However, the adoption of ET is hindered by its detrimental effects on tree health. Little knowledge is available regarding the mechanism of how ET shifts dormancy and flowering phenology in peach. This study aimed to further characterize the dormancy regulation network at the transcriptional level by profiling the gene expression of dormant peach buds from ET-treated and untreated trees using RNA-Seq data. The results revealed that ET triggered stress responses during endodormancy, delaying biological processes related to cell division and intercellular transportation, which are essential for the floral organ development. During ecodormancy, ET mainly impeded pathways related to antioxidants and cell wall formation, both of which are closely associated with dormancy release and budburst. In contrast, the expression of dormancy-associated MADS (DAM) genes remained relatively unaffected by ET, suggesting their conserved nature. The findings of this study signify the importance of floral organogenesis during dormancy and shed light on several key processes that are subject to the influence of ET, therefore opening up new avenues for the development of effective strategies to mitigate frost risks.
Production and Characterization of Peptide Antibodies to the C-Terminal of Frameshifted Calreticulin Associated with Myeloproliferative Diseases
Authors: Mughal Farah Perveen , Bergmann Ann Christina , Huynh Ha Uyen Buu , Jørgensen Sarah Hyllekvist , Mansha Inaam , Kesmez Meliha , Schürch Patrick Mark , Theocharides Alexandre Pierre André , Hansen Paul Robert , Friis Tina , Holmström Morten Orebo , Ciplys Evaldas , Slibinskas Rimantas , Højrup Peter , Houen Gunnar , Trier Nicole Hartwig
Published: June 2022

Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs) constitute a group of rare blood cancers that are characterized by mutations in bone marrow stem cells leading to the overproduction of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and thrombocytes. Mutations in calreticulin (CRT) genes may initiate MPNs, causing a novel variable polybasic stretch terminating in a common C-terminal sequence in the frameshifted CRT (CRTfs) proteins. Peptide antibodies to the mutated C-terminal are important reagents for research in the molecular mechanisms of MPNs and for the development of new diagnostic assays and therapies. In this study, eight peptide antibodies targeting the C-terminal of CRTfs were produced and characterised by modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays using resin-bound peptides. The antibodies reacted to two epitopes: CREACLQGWTE for SSI-HYB 385-01, 385-02, 385-03, 385-04, 385-07, 385-08, and 385-09 and CLQGWT for SSI-HYB 385-06. For the majority of antibodies, the residues Cys1, Trp9, and Glu11 were essential for reactivity. SSI-HYB 385-06, with the highest affinity, recognised recombinant CRTfs produced in yeast and the MARIMO cell line expressing CRTfs when examined in Western immunoblotting. Moreover, SSI-HYB 385-06 occasionally reacted to CRTfs from MPN patients when analysed by flow cytometry. The characterized antibodies may be used to understand the role of CRTfs in the pathogenesis of MPNs and to design and develop new diagnostic assays and therapeutic targets.
Breast Cancer Metastasis: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Park Misung , Kim Dohee , Ko Sunghyub , Kim Ayoung , Mo Kyumin , Yoon Hyunho
Published: June 2022

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide. Metastasis is the leading cause of high mortality in most cancers. Although predicting the early stage of breast cancer before metastasis can increase the survival rate, breast cancer is often discovered or diagnosed after metastasis has occurred. In general, breast cancer has a poor prognosis because it starts as a local disease and can spread to lymph nodes or distant organs, contributing to a significant impediment in breast cancer treatment. Metastatic breast cancer cells acquire aggressive characteristics from the tumor microenvironment (TME) through several mechanisms including epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and epigenetic regulation. Therefore, understanding the nature and mechanism of breast cancer metastasis can facilitate the development of targeted therapeutics focused on metastasis. This review discusses the mechanisms leading to metastasis and the current therapies to improve the early diagnosis and prognosis in patients with metastatic breast cancer.
LRRK2 and Proteostasis in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Pérez-Carrión María Dolores , Posadas Inmaculada , Solera Javier , Ceña Valentín
Published: June 2022

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition initially characterized by the presence of tremor, muscle stiffness and impaired balance, with the deposition of insoluble protein aggregates in Lewy’s Bodies the histopathological hallmark of the disease. Although different gene variants are linked to Parkinson disease, mutations in the Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are one of the most frequent causes of Parkinson’s disease related to genetic mutations. LRRK2 toxicity has been mainly explained by an increase in kinase activity, but alternative mechanisms have emerged as underlying causes for Parkinson’s disease, such as the imbalance in LRRK2 homeostasis and the involvement of LRRK2 in aggregation and spreading of α-synuclein toxicity. In this review, we recapitulate the main LRRK2 pathological mutations that contribute to Parkinson’s disease and the different cellular and therapeutic strategies devised to correct LRRK2 homeostasis. In this review, we describe the main cellular control mechanisms that regulate LRRK2 folding and aggregation, such as the chaperone network and the protein-clearing pathways such as the ubiquitin–proteasome system and the autophagic-lysosomal pathway. We will also address the more relevant strategies to modulate neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease through the regulation of LRRK2, using small molecules or LRRK2 silencing.
Automatic Crop Pest Detection Oriented Multiscale Feature Fusion Approach
Authors: Dong Shifeng , Du Jianming , Jiao Lin , Wang Fenmei , Liu Kang , Teng Yue , Wang Rujing
Published: June 2022

Specialized pest control for agriculture is a high-priority agricultural issue. There are multiple categories of tiny pests, which pose significant challenges to monitoring. Previous work mainly relied on manual monitoring of pests, which was labor-intensive and time-consuming. Recently, deep-learning-based pest detection methods have achieved remarkable improvements and can be used for automatic pest monitoring. However, there are two main obstacles in the task of pest detection. (1) Small pests often go undetected because much information is lost during the network training process. (2) The highly similar physical appearances of some categories of pests make it difficult to distinguish the specific categories for networks. To alleviate the above problems, we proposed the multi-category pest detection network (MCPD-net), which includes a multiscale feature pyramid network (MFPN) and a novel adaptive feature region proposal network (AFRPN). MFPN can fuse the pest information in multiscale features, which significantly improves detection accuracy. AFRPN solves the problem of anchor and feature misalignment during RPN iterating, especially for small pest objects. In extensive experiments on the multi-category pests dataset 2021 (MPD2021), the proposed method achieved 67.3% mean average precision (mAP) and 89.3% average recall (AR), outperforming other deep learning-based models.
Pregnancy in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Daraz Yasmeen , Murthy Sandhya , Wolfe Diana
Published: June 2022

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a female predominant disease, carries a high maternal and fetal mortality in pregnancy despite improved insight and the development of novel therapies. The high risk is attributed to the adaptive changes that take place to promote healthy fetal development during pregnancy, which can adversely affect the already compromised right ventricle in patients with PAH. While in the prior era emphasis was placed on termination of pregnancy, here we will illustrate through a multidisciplinary approach and meticulous planning at an expert center, these high-risk women can undergo successful childbirth.
A Woman’s Place Is in Theatre, but Are Theatres Designed with Women in Mind? A Systematic Review of Ergonomics for Women in Surgery
Authors: Bellini Maria , Amabile Maria , Saullo Paolina , Zorzetti Noemi , Testini Mario , Caronna Roberto , D’Andrea Vito
Published: June 2022

Background: Literature regarding ergonomic protocols for surgery is lacking, and there is a paucity of information on how this impacts on gender differences with regards to the barriers faced by women in surgery. Methods: This article reviews current literature addressing women in surgery and ergonomics through a systematic search including the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases. Results: Searches retrieved 425 items, and after a thorough evaluation for inclusion, 15 studies were examined—predominantly surveys (n = 9) and originating from the USA (n = 9). Identified ergonomic challenges included the general shorter height and smaller glove size of women. Furthermore, women experienced more musculoskeletal pain than men, potentially because the size and design of theatre tools are designed for male and tall individuals, highlighting an unconscious gender bias still pervading the surgical field. Conclusions: As more women enter medicine and pursue surgical careers, it is essential to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion in theatre to develop more ergonomic environments.
The Analysis of Arterial Stiffness in Heart Failure Patients: The Prognostic Role of Pulse Wave Velocity, Augmentation Index and Stiffness Index
Authors: Anastasio Fabio , Testa Marzia , Ferreri Cinzia , Rossi Arianna , Ruocco Gaetano , Feola Mauro
Published: June 2022

Background: The role of arterial stiffness in the pathogenesis and clinical outcome of heart failure (HF) patients has to be clarified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic role of arterial stiffness in HF patients discharged after acute episode of decompensation by evaluating cut-off values for clinical assessment. Methods: Patients admitted for decompensated heart failure (ADHF) underwent pre-discharge evaluation. Arterial stiffness was measured by aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV), augmentation index (AIx75) and stiffness index (β0). Patients were also evaluated after discharge for a variable follow-up time. Results: We observed 199 patients (male 61.3%, age 76.2 ± 10.7 years) after discharge for a median of 437 days (IQR 247-903), 69 (34.7%) patients suffered HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), 45 (22.6%) patients experienced HF with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmEF) and 85 (42.7%) reported an HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). After the adjustment for principal confounders, aPWV, AIx75 and β0 were inversely correlated with free-event survival (p = 0.006, p < 0.001, p = 0.001): only β0 was inversely correlated with overall survival (p = 0.03). Analysing the threshold, overall survival was inversely correlated with β0 ≥3 (HR 2.1, p = 0.04) and free-event survival was inversely correlated with aPWV ≥10 m/s (HR 1.7, p = 0.03), AIx75 ≥ 25 (HR 2.4, p < 0.001), and β0 ≥ 3 (HR 2.0, p = 0.009). Dividing HF patients for LV ejection fraction, β0 and AIx75 appeared to be accurate prognostic predictors among the three different classes according to free-event survival. Conclusions: The non-invasive measurements of arterial stiffness proved to be strong prognostic parameters in HF patients discharged after an acute HF decompensation.
The HACOR Score Predicts Worse in-Hospital Prognosis in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Mannarino Massimo Raffaele , Bianconi Vanessa , Cosentini Elena , Figorilli Filippo , Natali Costanza , Cellini Giulia , Colangelo Cecilia , Giglioni Francesco , Braca Marco , Pirro Matteo
Published: June 2022

Non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS) is widely used in COVID-19 patients, although high rates of NIRS failure are reported. Early detection of NIRS failure and promptly defining the need for intubation are crucial for the management of patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF). We tested the ability of the HACOR score¸ a scale based on clinical and laboratory parameters, to predict adverse outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with ARF. Four hundred patients were categorized according to high (>5) or low (≤5) HACOR scores measured at baseline and 1 h after the start of NIRS treatment. The association between a high HACOR score and either in-hospital death or the need for intubation was evaluated. NIRS was employed in 161 patients. Forty patients (10%) underwent intubation and 98 (25%) patients died. A baseline HACOR score > 5 was associated with the need for intubation or in-hospital death in the whole population (HR 4.3; p < 0.001), in the subgroup of patients who underwent NIRS (HR 5.2; p < 0.001) and in no-NIRS subgroup (HR 7.9; p < 0.001). In the NIRS subgroup, along with the baseline HACOR score, also 1-h HACOR score predicted NIRS failure (HR 2.6; p = 0.039). In conclusion, the HACOR score is a significant predictor of adverse clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19-related ARF.
Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer According to a Standardized MRI Classification System: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Rokan Zena , Simillis Constantinos , Kontovounisios Christos , Moran Brendan , Tekkis Paris , Brown Gina
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: The classification of locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) is not currently standardized. The aim of this review was to evaluate pelvic LRRC according to the Beyond TME (BTME) classification system and to consider commonly associated primary tumour characteristics. (2) Methods: A systematic review of the literature prior to April 2020 was performed through electronic searches of the Science Citation Index Expanded, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL databases. The primary outcome was to assess the location and frequency of previously classified pelvic LRRC and translate this information into the BTME system. Secondary outcomes were assessing primary tumour characteristics. (3) Results: A total of 58 eligible studies classified 4558 sites of LRRC, most commonly found in the central compartment (18%), following anterior resection (44%), in patients with an ‘advanced’ primary tumour (63%) and following neoadjuvant radiotherapy (29%). Most patients also classified had a low rectal primary tumour. The lymph node status of the primary tumour leading to LRRC was comparable, with 52% node positive versus 48% node negative tumours. (4) Conclusions: This review evaluates the largest number of LRRCs to date using a single classification system. It has also highlighted the need for standardized reporting in order to optimise perioperative treatment planning.
How COVID-19 Affects Lung Transplantation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Vachtenheim Jiri , Novysedlak Rene , Svorcova Monika , Lischke Robert , Strizova Zuzana
Published: June 2022

Lung transplant (LuTx) recipients are at a higher risk of developing serious illnesses from COVID-19, and thus, we have closely reviewed the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on lung transplantation. In most transplant centers, the overall LuTx activity significantly declined and led to a specific period of restricting lung transplantation to urgent cases. Moreover, several transplant centers reported difficulties due to the shortage of ICU capacities. The fear of donor-derived transmission generated extensive screening programs. Nevertheless, reasonable concerns about the unnecessary losses of viable organs were also raised. The overall donor shortage resulted in increased waiting-list mortality, and COVID-19-associated ARDS became an indication of lung transplantation. The impact of specific immunosuppressive agents on the severity of COVID-19 varied. Corticosteroid discontinuation was not found to be beneficial for LuTx patients. Tacrolimus concentrations were reported to increase during the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and in combination with remdesivir, tacrolimus may clinically impact renal functions. Monoclonal antibodies were shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization in SOT recipients. However, understanding the pharmacological interactions between the anti-COVID-19 drugs and the immunosuppressive drugs requires further research.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Relevance of Different Types of Caregivers for Elderly Patients with Acute Heart Failure—Analysis from the RICA Registry
Authors: Méndez-Bailon Manuel , Lorenzo-Villalba Noel , Rubio-Garcia Jorge , Moreno-García María Carmen , Ropero-Luis Guillermo , Martínez-Litago Eduardo , Quirós-López Raúl , Carrascosa-García Sara , González-Franco Alvaro , Andrès Emmanuel , Casado-Cerrada Jesús , Montero-Pérez-Barquero Manuel
Published: June 2022

Background: Patients with heart failure encompass a heterogeneous group, but they are mostly elderly patients with a large burden of comorbid conditions. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics and the prognostic impact on hospital admissions and mortality in a population of patients with HF with different types of caregivers (family members, professionals, and the patient himself). Methods: We conducted an observational study from a prospective registry. Patients from the National Registry of Heart Failure (RICA), which belongs to the Working Group on Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI), were included. Patients with heart failure were classified, according to the type of main caregiver, into four groups: the patient himself/herself, a partner, children, or a professional caregiver. A bivariable analysis was performed between the clinical, analytical, therapeutic, and prognostic characteristics of the different groups. The endpoints of the study were all-cause mortality at 1 year; mortality at 120 days; and the readmission rate for HF at 30 days, 120 days, and 1 year of follow-up. In all cases, the level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 2147 patients were enrolled in this study; women represented 52.4%, and the mean age was 81 years. The partner was the caregiver for 703 patients, children were caregivers for 1097 patients, 199 patients had a professional caregiver, and only 148 patients were their own caregivers. Women were more frequently cared for by their children (65.8%) or a professional caregiver (61.8%); men were more frequently cared for by their spouses (68.7%) and more frequently served as their own caregivers (59.5%) (p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed in relation to readmissions or mortality at one year of follow-up between the different groups. A lower probability of readmission and death was observed for patients who received care from a partner or children/relative, with log-rank scores of 11.2 with p= 0.010 and 10.8 with p = 0.013. Conclusions: Our study showed that the presence of a family caregiver for elderly patients with heart failure was associated with a lower readmission rate and a lower mortality rate at 120 days of follow-up. Our study also demonstrated that elderly patients with good cognitive and functional status can be their own caregivers, as they obtained good health outcomes in terms of readmission and mortality. More prospective studies and clinical trials are needed to evaluate the impact of different types of caregivers on the outcomes of patients with heart failure.
Evaluation of STIR Library Adapted for PET Scanners with Non-Cylindrical Geometry
Authors: Dao Viet , Mikhaylova Ekaterina , Ahnen Max L. , Fischer Jannis , Thielemans Kris , Tsoumpas Charalampos
Published: June 2022

Software for Tomographic Image Reconstruction (STIR) is an open source C++ library used to reconstruct single photon emission tomography and positron emission tomography (PET) data. STIR has an experimental scanner geometry modelling feature to accurately model detector placement. In this study, we test and improve this new feature using several types of data: Monte Carlo simulations and measured phantom data acquired from a dedicated brain PET prototype scanner. The results show that the new geometry class applied to non-cylindrical PET scanners improved spatial resolution, uniformity, and image contrast. These are directly observed in the reconstructions of small features in the test quality phantom. Overall, we conclude that the revised “BlocksOnCylindrical” class will be a valuable addition to the next STIR software release with adjustments of existing features (Single Scatter Simulation, forward projection, attenuation corrections) to “BlocksOnCylindrical”.
Research Advancements in Key Technologies for Space-Based Situational Awareness
Authors: Wang Beichao , Li Shuang , Mu Jinzhen , Hao Xiaolong , Zhu Wenshan , Hu Jiaqian
Published: June 2022

The space environment has become highly congested due to the increasing space debris, seriously threatening the safety of orbiting spacecraft. Space-based situational awareness, as a comprehensive capability of threat knowledge, analysis, and decision-making, is of significant importance to ensure space security and maintain normal order. Various space situational awareness systems have been designed and launched. Data acquisition, target recognition, and monitoring constituting key technologies make major contributions, and various advanced algorithms are explored as technical supports. However, comprehensive reviews of these technologies and specific algorithms rarely emerge. It disadvantages the future development of space situational awareness. Therefore, this paper further reviews and analyzes research advancements in key technologies for space situational awareness, emphasizing target recognition and monitoring. Many mature and emerging methods are presented for these technologies while discussing application advantages and limitations. Specially, the research prospects of multiagent and synergetic constellation technologies are expected for future situational awareness. This paper indicates the future directions of the key technologies, aiming to provide references for space-based situational awareness to realize space sustainability.
Lessons for the Implementability and Sustainability of the SURG-Africa Model of Malawi in Colombia Comment on "Improving Access to Surgery Through Surgical Team Mentoring – Policy Lessons From Group Model Building With Local Stakeholders in Malawi"
Authors: Moreno Jaime Hernán Rodríguez , Velandia Jesús , Igua Diana
Published: June 2022

The development of models that allow improving the quality to achieve person-centered care is a challenge for any health system, especially in low- and middle-income countries, due to the economic difficulties inherent to the countries and to the cost involved in its implementation, which should be assumed by the states, avoiding that the economic burden is assumed by the population, and approaching the goal of universal health coverage. The availability of human talent and efficiency in the use of basic and specialized human talent is a necessity to improve safe access to health services, in this sense, the model proposed by SURG-Africa and whose sustainability in Malawi was evaluated, is an important reference for the establishment and sustainability of these models with other specialties and in other countries. Through this article, the elements of education, care model and financing for the implementation of the strategy in family medicine in the Colombian health system are explored.
Impact of Regulatory Changes on Innovations in the Medical Device Industry Comment on "Clinical Decision Support and New Regulatory Frameworks for Medical Devices: Are We Ready for It? - A Viewpoint Paper"
Authors: Maresova Petra
Published: June 2022

Economic regulation is an instrument of the state or other institutions to correct market failures, rectify the business environment, or protect consumers. Regulation can be a major driver of innovation, and it has proven to be so in the past. On the other hand, there are also documented cases of ineffective regulation due to information delays or shortcomings in government decision-making. The complexity of the impact of regulatory changes on innovation can currently be observed in the medical device market in Europe. Regulation (EU) 2017/745 whose main idea is to ensure greater safety and health protection for consumers, is a challenge for originator, manufacturer, mostly small and medium-sized enterprises. The regulation is associated with an increase in the cost of developing and maintaining the product on the market. We can now gradually begin to analyze whether it can be ranked among those that have become drivers of innovation.
Resisting the Effects of Neoliberalism on Public Policy Comment on "Implementing Universal and Targeted Policies for Health Equity: Lessons From Australia"
Authors: Raphael Dennis , Bryant Toba
Published: June 2022

Fisher and colleagues carefully review the extent to which health equity goals of availability, affordability, and acceptability have been achieved in the areas of national broadband network policy and land-use policy, in addition to the more traditional areas of primary healthcare and Indigenous health in Australia. They consider the effectiveness of policies identified as either universal, proportionate-universal, targeted or residualist in these areas. In this commentary we suggest future areas of inquiry that can help inform the findings of their excellent study. These include the impacts of Australia being a liberal welfare state and how acceptance of neoliberal approaches to governance makes the achieving of health equity in these four policy areas difficult.