bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on the synergistic Interplay of Vitamin D and K for Improving Bone and Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Singh Vinita , Jain Shravali , Prakash Satya , Thakur Monika
Published: December 2022

Nutrients perform their roles either directly or through interaction with other nutrients inside our body. The nature of interactions between nutrients can be synergistic, which brings about maximum benefit to the host, or antagonistic, i.e., one nutrient affects the uptake and availability of other nutrients in the body. These interactions need to be critically analysed and acknowledged to harness their positive health benefits. Combining nutrients having a synergistic effect may help in lowering the threat of cardiovascular ailment, osteoporosis, and other health issues. This study aims to qualitatively review the information that is currently available upon the synergistic effects of co-supplementing Vitamin D and K on bone and cardiovascular health among various age groups. The methodology followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A structured search of two databases-PubMed and Google Scholar—was carried out, and articles were identified that focused upon the dual supplementation of Vitamin D and K, which has been shown to improve bone and cardiovascular health among users. The search was restricted to the English language, conducted, and published between 2006 and 2021. Overall, 12 studies involving 8216 participants were included in the qualitative analysis. Among these, 5 were randomized controlled trials, 6 were observational studies, and 1 was interventional studies. The results were interpreted based on improved bone health by assessing the progress in Bone Mineral Content (BMC), lower extremity function, Bone Mineral Density (BMD), and bone turnover. In contrast, improvement in cardiovascular health was recorded based on the Carotid Intima-media Thickness (CIMT), arterial stiffness, high systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the structure of the heart. Out of a total 12 studies, 11 studies showed that Vitamin D work in synergy with Vitamin K and also has a significant role in improving bone fractures, low BMD, and cardiovascular disorders. Further research and clinical trials on these Vitamins in different age groups and disease conditions are warranted.
Nutraceutical Prospects and Antioxidant Activity of White and Red Water Lily Stem Available in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Md. Akram Hossain , Hossain Md. Altaf , Haque Mohammad Mozibul , Yeasmin Nilufa , Matin Abdul , Islam Dilshad
Published: December 2022

Generally, the white and red water lily cultivars' stems are consumed as vegetables in Bangladesh. However, data on the nutritional benefits and antioxidant properties of these aquatic plant’s stem are scant. Considering the aforementioned possibilities, the goal of this study was to evaluate the nutritional value, anti-nutritional factors, and antioxidant activity of two common Nymphaea species such as Nymphaea nouchali (white variety), and Nymphaea rubra (red variety) grown in Bangladesh. The proximate analysis and mineral content were determined by following AOAC methods. Crude fiber content was significantly higher in the white lily (19.56±0.68%) compared to the red cultivar (16.24±1.05%). Conversely, the red lily showed a higher value (18.52±1.01%) for ash content than the white species (15.44±0.79%). However, the varieties had no significant differences in moisture, protein, fat, and carbohydrate content. Both stems were rich in essential minerals, whereas Na and Cu were significantly higher in white water lily (WWL); however, the red water lily (RWL) stem possessed significantly copious amounts of K and P. On the other hand, there was no significant difference between two species in the case of Ca, Mg, Fe, and Zn content. The assay showed that the total phenolic contents (mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid contents (mg QE/g) were 16.51±0.05 and 15.48±02, 476±0.1 and 7.846±0.1 in white and red water lily stems respectively. In addition, the anti-nutrient screening revealed that both species were positive for saponin and tannin. Furthermore, the extract of RWL stem showed more antioxidant activity (IC50 value 28.48±0.12µg/ml) against DPPH than WWL (IC50 value 36.67±0.09 µg/ml). Thus, water lily stems can be incorporated into our diet as a potential natural source of antioxidants and vital elements.
The Effectiveness of Implementation of Healthy Living Community Movement in Overcoming Metabolic Syndrome Among Female Workers in East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Nailufar Farida , Khomsan Ali , Baliwati Yayuk Farida , Riyadi Hadi
Published: December 2022

The metabolic syndrome occurs in almost 25% of the world’s adult population. A workplace is an ideal place for implementing health interventions to reduce metabolic syndrome risk factor. One of the Indonesian government’s health programs to improve public health and prevent non-communicable diseases is called Healthy Living Community Movement (HLCM). This research aims to determine the effectiveness of HLCM implementation to overcome metabolic syndrome among female workers in Indonesia. This quasi-experimental study included 42 female workers with metabolic syndrome, which were divided into an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group was given an 8-weeks combination of health education and implementation of HLCM activities that consisted of fruit and vegetables provision as much as 400 grams per day and physical exercise for at least 150 minutes per week. The intervention for control group included only health education. Subjects’ parameters were measured and adherence to HLCM activities was evaluated by a questionnaire. Adherence to HLCM implementation was carried out by 52.4% of the subjects which resulted in a significant reduction in their waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and triglyceride levels (p < 0.05, respectively). After 8 weeks of interventions, 13 subjects (65%) from the intervention group were no longer included in the metabolic syndrome criteria, while in the control group only 2 subjects (10.5%) were not included. Therefore, the implementation of HLCM in the workplace is effective in overcoming the metabolic syndrome.
Bacillus Coagulans and its Spore as Potential Probiotics in the Production of Novel Shelf- Stable Foods
Authors: Poshadri A. , H. W Deshpande , U. M Khodke , S.D Katke
Published: December 2022

The synbiotic foods with therapeutic activities have been beneficial to gut health and immunity development, including Bacillus coagulans as the probiotic microorganism. It is preferred over other lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as it can produce spores. It is grown in the pH range of 5.5 to 6.2 and releases spores at 37 °C. These microbial spores can withstand environments with high temperatures, acidic conditions, and salinity, making it a viable probiotic organism for production of novel shelf-stable foods. It has become an essential ingredient in the functional food industry due to its probiotic characteristics and great resistance to stressful conditions. For extensive commercial use and a wide range of food applications, apart from probiotic characteristics, a probiotic organism must be cost-effective, convenient and remain viable throughout the processing, storage and consumption. The non-spore- forming lactic acid bacteria can be utilized to make probiotic products and fermented dairy products under controlled processing and storage conditions. The spore- forming probiotic organism can be delivered into the human gut through novel food products derived from cereals, legumes, fruits and vegetables, confectionery products, and meat and non-dairy products. This has led to the development of convenient and shelf-stable non-dairy probiotics. These non-dairy-based probiotics are cheaper, resilient against various processing conditions, high in bioactive components, and can mitigate the risk of lifestyle diseases and reduce. Further, lactose intolerance is associated with the consumption of dairy probiotics. Therefore, this review aimed to assess the utilization of probiotic Bacillus coagulans spores in emerging shelf-stable novel non-dairy products with probiotic potential.
Performance of Mixed-Microbial Culture from Civet Fecal Suspensions on Physicochemical Composition of Wet Fermented Arabica Coffee
Authors: D Darwin , Muliawati Ami , Bulan Ramayanty
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of mixed microbial culture from civet fecal suspension used as the inoculum for the fermentation of Arabica coffee. The type of Arabica coffee used for the research was the unpeeled coffee or the Arabica coffee cherries. Different proportion of inoculum introduced was thoroughly evaluated to assess the appropriate concentration of inoculum (0-40% inoculums represented in treatment 0-4 or T0 to T4) that would be applied to the fermentation of Arabica coffee cherries. Results revealed that treatment 4 (T4) containing 40% of the inoculum could degrade the sugar of the coffee beans faster than that of the other treatments in which within 24 hours of the incubation approximately 84% of the sugar was converted. T4 also reached the lowest caffeine content (1.8%) of the fermented coffee beans among other that of other treatments while the control had higher caffeine content (2.2%).This was substantially significant as the Arabica coffee cherries fermented with mixed microbial civet fecal suspensions can remarkably reduce the sugar and caffeine content of the Arabica coffee beans.
Correlation between physical efficiency index using Harvard step test and heart rate variation in college students
Authors: Kim Dong-Hwan , Cho Yeong-Hyun , Seo Tae-Beom
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between physical efficiency index (PEI) calculated by the Harvard step test and heart rate variation (HRV), and to identify parameters of HRV that can predict PEI in college students. Sixteen college students were participated in this study and they were randomly divided into two groups; higher PEI group (HPEI, n = 6) and lower PEI group (LPEI, n = 10). To investigate the relationship between PEI and HRV, we were measured HRV and Harvard step test. HRV test was the resting, immediately, 15 min and 30 min after the Harvard step test using electrocardiography device polyG-I. Relationship between PEI and HRV were determined Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis was performed for examining HRV parameters to predict PEI. As shown in the result, not only PEI was negatively correlated with root mean squared differences between adjacent normal RR intervals (RMSSD), but had a positive correlation with low-frequency/high-frequency, but also normalized low frequency (normLF), the ratio of LF, and RMSSD, the change in RR interval showed a significant difference at each time point of measurement according to PEI levels. But, there were no significant differences among the HRV variables except normLF and RMSSD. Our findings suggest a critical information that PEI calculated by the Harvard step test can be used as an index to predict the autonomic nerve function, and high PEI may have a positive effect on changes in autonomic nerve activity during recovery after exercise intervention.
Abdominal and lower extremity muscles activity and thickness in typically developing children and children with developmental delay
Authors: Ha Sun-Young , Sung Yun-Hee
Published: December 2022

We investigated abdominal and lower extremity muscle activity and thickness in typically developing children and children with developmental delays. A total of 35 children participated: typically developing peers (n = 13), children with hypotonia (n = 10), and children with spasticity (n = 12). Muscle activity and thickness were measured at rest and during activity. Electromyography was used to measure abdominal and lower extremity muscle activities, and abdominal muscle thickness was measured using ultrasonography. There was a significant difference between the groups in the activity of the rectus abdominis and quadriceps muscles at rest and during activity (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference between the groups in the thickness of the external oblique and transversus abdominis muscles during activity (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference between the groups in the thickness of the external oblique and internal oblique muscles in the sitting position (P < 0.05). Therefore, the characteristics of muscle tone should be considered when applying interventions to children with developmental delay.
Using the care processes construct of McCormack and McCance's person-centred framework to critically analyse nursing care delivered: a case study
Authors: Guthrie Lauren , Reid Bernie
Published: December 2022

This paper uses a case study approach to critically analyse nursing care provided for a patient living with dementia in an older persons’ care ward, using two care processes from the person-centred framework: working with patients’ beliefs and values, and shared decision making.
Supporting older people and carers to stay safe in winter
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: December 2022

Adrian Ashurst discusses what older people and care staff can do to keep safe during the winter months.
Dynamic causal modelling shows a prominent role of local inhibition in alpha power modulation in higher visual cortex
Authors: Van de Steen Frederik , Pinotsis Dimitris , Devos Wouter , Colenbier Nigel , Bassez Iege , Friston Karl , Marinazzo Daniele
Published: December 2022

During resting-state EEG recordings, alpha activity is more prominent over the posterior cortex in eyes-closed (EC) conditions compared to eyes-open (EO). In this study, we characterized the difference in spectra between EO and EC conditions using dynamic causal modelling. Specifically, we investigated the role of intrinsic and extrinsic connectivity—within the visual cortex—in generating EC-EO alpha power differences over posterior electrodes. The primary visual cortex (V1) and the bilateral middle temporal visual areas (V5) were equipped with bidirectional extrinsic connections using a canonical microcircuit. The states of four intrinsically coupled subpopulations—within each occipital source—were also modelled. Using Bayesian model selection, we tested whether modulations of the intrinsic connections in V1, V5 or extrinsic connections (or a combination thereof) provided the best evidence for the data. In addition, using parametric empirical Bayes (PEB), we estimated group averages under the winning model. Bayesian model selection showed that the winning model contained both extrinsic connectivity modulations, as well as intrinsic connectivity modulations in all sources. The PEB analysis revealed increased extrinsic connectivity during EC. Overall, we found a reduction in the inhibitory intrinsic connections during EC. The results suggest that the intrinsic modulations in V5 played the most important role in producing EC-EO alpha differences, suggesting an intrinsic disinhibition in higher order visual cortex, during EC resting state.
Gene drive designs for efficient and localisable population suppression using Y-linked editors
Authors: Geci René , Willis Katie , Burt Austin
Published: December 2022

The sterile insect technique (SIT) has been successful in controlling some pest species but is not practicable for many others due to the large number of individuals that need to be reared and released. Previous computer modelling has demonstrated that the release of males carrying a Y-linked editor that kills or sterilises female descendants could be orders of magnitude more efficient than SIT while still remaining spatially restricted, particularly if combined with an autosomal sex distorter. In principle, further gains in efficiency could be achieved by using a self-propagating double drive design, in which each of the two components (the Y-linked editor and the sex ratio distorter) boosted the transmission of the other. To better understand the expected dynamics and impact of releasing constructs of this new design we have analysed a deterministic population genetic and population dynamic model. Our modelling demonstrates that this design can suppress a population from very low release rates, with no invasion threshold. Importantly, the design can work even if homing rates are low and sex chromosomes are silenced at meiosis, potentially expanding the range of species amenable to such control. Moreover, the predicted dynamics and impacts can be exquisitely sensitive to relatively small (e.g., 25%) changes in allele frequencies in the target population, which could be exploited for sequence-based population targeting. Analysis of published Anopheles gambiae genome sequences indicates that even for weakly differentiated populations with an FST of 0.02 there may be thousands of suitably differentiated genomic sites that could be used to restrict the spread and impact of a release. Our proposed design, which extends an already promising development pathway based on Y-linked editors, is therefore a potentially useful addition to the menu of options for genetic biocontrol.
The circadian E3 ligase FBXL21 regulates myoblast differentiation and sarcomere architecture via MYOZ1 ubiquitination and NFAT signaling
Authors: Lim Ji Ye , Kim Eunju , Douglas Collin M. , Wirianto Marvin , Han Chorong , Ono Kaori , Kim Sun Young , Ji Justin H. , Tran Celia K. , Chen Zheng , Esser Karyn A. , Yoo Seung-Hee
Published: December 2022

Numerous molecular and physiological processes in the skeletal muscle undergo circadian time-dependent oscillations in accordance with daily activity/rest cycles. The circadian regulatory mechanisms underlying these cyclic processes, especially at the post-transcriptional level, are not well defined. Previously, we reported that the circadian E3 ligase FBXL21 mediates rhythmic degradation of the sarcomere protein TCAP in conjunction with GSK-3β, and Psttm mice harboring an Fbxl21 hypomorph allele show reduced muscle fiber diameter and impaired muscle function. To further elucidate the regulatory function of FBXL21 in skeletal muscle, we investigated another sarcomere protein, Myozenin1 (MYOZ1), that we identified as an FBXL21-binding protein from yeast 2-hybrid screening. We show that FBXL21 binding to MYOZ1 led to ubiquitination-mediated proteasomal degradation. GSK-3β co-expression and inhibition were found to accelerate and decelerate FBXL21-mediated MYOZ1 degradation, respectively. Previously, MYOZ1 has been shown to inhibit calcineurin/NFAT signaling important for muscle differentiation. In accordance, Fbxl21 KO and MyoZ1 KO in C2C12 cells impaired and enhanced myogenic differentiation respectively compared with control C2C12 cells, concomitant with distinct effects on NFAT nuclear localization and NFAT target gene expression. Importantly, in Psttm mice, both the levels and diurnal rhythm of NFAT2 nuclear localization were significantly diminished relative to wild-type mice, and circadian expression of NFAT target genes associated with muscle differentiation was also markedly dampened. Furthermore, Psttm mice exhibited significant disruption of sarcomere structure with a considerable excess of MYOZ1 accumulation in the Z-line. Taken together, our study illustrates a pivotal role of FBXL21 in sarcomere structure and muscle differentiation by regulating MYOZ1 degradation and NFAT2 signaling.
Characteristics of clinical isolates of nontuberculous mycobacteria in Java-Indonesia: A multicenter study
Authors: Saptawati Leli , Primaningtyas Widana , Dirgahayu Paramasari , Sutanto Yusup Subagio , Wasita Brian , Suryawati Betty , Nuryastuti Titik , Probandari Ari
Published: December 2022

Background

Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung infections are a major public health concern. Diagnosis of NTM-pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) is difficult because its clinical, microbiological, and radiological features resemble to those of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), leading to misdiagnosis. Identification at the species level is essential for diagnosis and determination of therapy, which is currently not performed routinely in Indonesian laboratories.

Methodology and principal findings

From January 2020 to May 2021, 94 NTM isolates were collected from three TB referral centers in Java Province. Species were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Tests were performed to determine antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation ability, sliding motility characteristics, and the ability to adhere to and invade pneumocytes. After identifying the species of all the isolates, we found nine groups of NTMs: M. fortuitum group 51% (48/94), M. abscessus 38.3% (36/94), M. intracellulare 3.1% (3/94), M. neoaurum 2.1% (2/94), M. chelonae 1.1% (1/94), M. gordonae 1.1% (1/94), M. szulgai 1.1% (1/94), M. mucogenicum 1.1% (1/94), and M. arupense 1.1% (1/94). Amikacin was the most effective antibiotic against M. fortuitum group and M. abscessus. The M. fortuitum group was significantly better at forming biofilms than M. abscessus, but both had the same sliding motility capability. The ability of the M. fortuitum group to adhere to and invade pneumocytes was better than that of M. abscessus, with the number isolates of the M. fortuitum group capable of superior adhesion and invasion to that of M. abscessus.

Conclusions/Significance

This study shows that M. fortuitum group and M. abscessus were the most common NTM found in Java, Indonesia. The M. fortuitum group and M. abscessus were the most susceptible to amikacin; therefore, this was the empirical treatment of choice. The ability to form biofilms is directly proportional to the ability to adhere to and invade pneumocytes but not to the susceptibility profile or sliding motility characteristics.
Rebamipide treatment ameliorates obesity phenotype by regulation of immune cells and adipocytes
Authors: Jhun JooYeon , Moon Jeonghyeon , Kim Se-Young , Cho Keun-Hyung , Na Hyun Sik , Choi JeongWon , Jung Yoon Ju , Song Kyo Young , Min Jun-Ki , Cho Mi-La
Published: December 2022

Obesity is a medical term used to describe an over-accumulation of adipose tissue. It causes abnormal physiological and pathological processes in the body. Obesity is associated with systemic inflammation and abnormalities in immune cell function. Rebamipide, an amino acid derivative of 2-(1H)-quinolinone, has been used as a therapeutic for the protection from mucosal damage. Our previous studies have demonstrated that rebamipide treatment regulates lipid metabolism and inflammation, leading to prevention of weight gain in high-fat diet mice. In this study, mice were put on a high calorie diet for 11 weeks while receiving injections of rebamipide. Rebamipide treatment reduced the body weight, liver weight and blood glucose levels compared to control mice and reduced both glucose and insulin resistance. Fat accumulation has been shown to cause pro-inflammatory activity in mice. Treatment with rebamipide decreased the prevalence of inflammatory cells such as Th2, Th17 and M1 macrophages and increased anti-inflammatory Treg and M2 macrophages in epididymal fat tissue. Additionally, rebamipide addition inhibited adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cell lines. Taken together, our study demonstrates that rebamipide treatment is a novel and effective method to prevent diet-induced obesity.
Out-of-pocket expenditure on childhood infections and its financial burden on Indian households: Evidence from nationally representative household survey (2017–18)
Authors: Farooqui Habib Hasan , Karan Anup , Mathur Manu Raj , Hussain Suhaib , Selvaraj Sakthivel
Published: December 2022

The key objective of this research was to estimate out of pocket expenditure (OOPE) incurred by the Indian households for the treatment of childhood infections. We estimated OOPE estimates on outpatient care and hospitalization by disease conditions and type of health facilities. In addition, we also estimated OOPE as a share of households’ total consumption expenditure (TCE) by MPCE quintile groups to assess the quantum of the financial burden on the households. We analyzed the Social Consumption: Health (SCH) data from National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) 75th round (2017–18). Outcome indicators were prevalence of selected infectious diseases in children aged less than 5 years, per episode of OOPE on outpatient care in the preceding 15 days, hospitalization in the preceding year and OOPE as a share of households’ total consumption expenditure. Our analysis suggests that the most common childhood infection was ‘fever with rash’ followed by ‘acute upper respiratory infection’ and ‘acute meningitis’. However, the highest OOPE for outpatient care and hospitalization was reported for ‘viral hepatitis’ and ‘tuberculosis’ episodes. Among the households reporting childhood infections, OOPE was 4.8% and 6.7% of households’ total consumption expenditure (TCE) for outpatient care and hospitalization, respectively. Furthermore, OOPE as a share of TCE was disproportionately higher for the poorest MPCE quintiles (outpatient, 7.9%; hospitalization, 8.2%) in comparison to the richest MPCE quintiles (outpatient, 4.8%; hospitalization, 6.7%). This treatment and care-related OOPE has equity implications for Indian households as the poorest households bear a disproportionately higher burden of OOPE as a share of TCE. Ensuring financial risk protection and universal access to care for childhood illnesses is critical to addressing inequity in care.
Effectiveness of the Internet Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy (iABCT) to improve the quality of life and well-being in a population with chronic medical illness: A study protocol of a randomized controlled trial (SPIRIT compliant)
Authors: Martínez-Sanchis Marian , Vara Mª Dolores , Herrero Rocío , Campos Daniel , García-Campayo Javier , Baños Rosa Mª
Published: December 2022

Background

Chronic medical illnesses significantly and negatively affect the quality of life of individuals who suffer them and represent one of the most important challenges faced by healthcare providers and policy-makers due to its rising prevalence and high rates of comorbidity. Compassion-based interventions delivered over the Internet may be a useful approach to facilitate illness management and improve the quality of life of individuals with chronic medical conditions.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to describe a protocol for a randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of the Internet Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy (iABCT) to improve the quality of life and well-being of patients with chronic medical illnesses.

Method

A two-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be carried out, with three assessment points (baseline, 3-month, and 6-month) under two conditions: intervention group and control group (waiting list). The primary outcomes include the quality of life on the EuroQol 5-Dimensions Questionnaire (EQ-5D) and the Pemberton Happiness Index (PHI). Secondary outcomes, such as compassion, self-care behaviors, illness interference, self-criticism, symptomatology, attachment styles, social support, and illness perception, will be considered. Moreover, an assessment on satisfaction and usability will be carried out. A total of 68 participants as minimum will be recruited (34 per arm). Intent-to-treat mixed-model analyses without any ad hoc imputations will be conducted.

Conclusions

Findings of this study will provide new insights into the potential of self-applied compassion-based interventions (CBI) delivered online in the context of chronic medical illnesses, considering aspects of their implementation (e.g., facilitators, barriers) and mechanisms of change.

Trial registration

The study is registered under Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04809610) and it is currently in the participant recruitment phase.
Study protocol for connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease trial (TEL-CTD-ILD): A randomized controlled trial of a home-based telemonitoring of treatment effects
Authors: Małysiak-Szpond Sylwia , Mozga Maria , Miądlikowska Ewa , Miłkowska-Dymanowska Joanna , Białas Adam Jerzy , Piotrowski Wojciech Jerzy
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Interstitial lung disease is one of the most severe pulmonary complications related to connective tissue diseases, resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality. Telepneumology has the potential to improve the long-term management of patients with CTD-ILD. We propose a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of home-based telemonitoring of patients with CTD-ILD, in whom treatment was initiated.

Materials and methods

We will conduct a randomized controlled trial comparing the standard of care with a telemonitoring program. Telemonitoring will start 10 to 14 days before treatment and will be carried out for three months of therapy. After initial training, patients from the intervention group will perform daily spirometry (FVC), transdermal pulse oximetry, pulse and blood pressure measurements, activity measurement (accelerometry), and assessment of the severity of cough and dyspnea. The results will be reported using a telemetric system designed by Mediguard® for this study. The primary outcome measure will be the health-related quality of life change using EQ-5D-5L questionnaire and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, as measured at stationary visits in both study groups. Secondary outcomes will include assessment of lung function, costs of health service utilization, satisfaction from being telemonitored, dyspnea by mMRC, fatigue by FAS, patients’ adherence to recommended medications using the ASCD, anxiety and depression symptoms as measured by HADS, PHQ-9, and side effects of treatment.

Discussion

This is the first clinical trial protocol to evaluate home-based telemonitoring to optimize connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung management. The study aims to provide data on the impact of telemonitoring on quality of life, evaluation of health status of patients with CTD-ILD using telemonitoring versus standard care. Additionally, we will evaluate the cost-effectiveness of telemonitoring solutions in patients with CTD-ILD.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04428957; Registered June 11, 2020; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04428957.
Corporate internal control, financial mismatch mitigation and innovation performance
Authors: Li Xiao , Zhao Zhiquan
Published: December 2022

Based on the resource allocation optimization theory, from the perspective of internal control (IC) and financial mismatch jointly affecting technological innovation, this study selects the listed enterprises in China’s capital market from 2012 to 2020 as the sample, and explores the mechanism among IC, financial mismatch and technological innovation. The results show that effective IC significantly promotes corporate innovation, and mitigates financial mismatch. The mitigation of financial mismatch presents a significant mediating effect between effective IC and innovation output. In Discussion, this study finds that the effects are significantly reflected in non-state-owned enterprises, but not in state-owned enterprises. Finally, it is suggested to improve IC effectiveness continuously, to stimulate innovation vitality, optimize financial resources allocation, and foster new momentum for economic development. And it is suggested to facilitate the transmission effect that effective IC mitigates financial mismatch, and enhances innovation output. Also, the innovation activities in state-owned and non-state-owned enterprises should be coordinated to promote the steady and healthy development of the economy.
Parents’ intention to vaccinate their child for COVID-19: A mixed-methods study (CoVAccS–wave 3)
Authors: Smith Louise E. , Sherman Susan M. , Sim Julius , Amlôt Richard , Cutts Megan , Dasch Hannah , Sevdalis Nick , Rubin G. James
Published: December 2022

Aim

To investigate UK parents’ vaccination intention at a time when COVID-19 vaccination was available to some children.

Methods

Data reported are from the second wave of a prospective cohort study. We conducted a mixed-methods study using an online survey of 270 UK parents (conducted 4–15 October 2021). At this time, vaccination was available to 16- and 17-year-olds and had become available to 12- to 15-year-olds two weeks prior. We asked participants whose child had not yet been vaccinated how likely they were to vaccinate their child for COVID-19. Linear regression analyses were used to investigate factors associated with intention (quantitative component). Parents were also asked for their main reasons behind vaccination intention. Open-ended responses were analysed using content analysis (qualitative component).

Results

Parental vaccination intention was mixed (likely: 39.3%, 95% CI 32.8%, 45.7%; uncertain: 33.9%, 95% CI 27.7%, 40.2%; unlikely: 26.8%, 95% CI 20.9%, 32.6%). Intention was associated with: parental COVID-19 vaccination status; greater perceived necessity and social norms regarding COVID-19 vaccination; greater COVID-19 threat appraisal; and lower vaccine safety and novelty concerns. In those who intended to vaccinate their child, the main reasons for doing so were to protect the child and others. In those who did not intend to vaccinate their child, the main reason was safety concerns.

Conclusions

Parent COVID-19 vaccination status and psychological factors explained a large percentage of the variance in vaccination intention for one’s child. Further study is needed to see whether parents’ intention to vaccinate their child is affected by fluctuating infection rates, more children being vaccinated, and the UK’s reliance on vaccination as a strategy to live with COVID-19.
Pharmacokinetics of hydrogen administered intraperitoneally as hydrogen-rich saline and its effect on ischemic neuronal cell death in the brain in gerbils
Authors: Hirano Momoko , Sugai Kazuhisa , Fujisawa Masahiko , Kobayashi Eiji , Katsumata Yoshinori , Hakamata Yoji , Sano Motoaki
Published: December 2022

Intraperitoneal administration of hydrogen (H2)-containing saline inhibited neuronal cell death in ischemic stroke in a number of animal models, but it is unknown whether H2 is absorbed from the abdominal cavity into the blood and reaches the brain. In this study, we investigated whether intraperitoneal administration of saline containing H2 inhibits neuronal cell death caused by cerebral ischemia and measured the concentration of H2 in the carotid artery and inferior vena cava (IVC). Gerbils were subjected to transient unilateral cerebral ischemia twice, and saline or H2-rich saline was administered intraperitoneally three or seven times every 12 hours. We evaluated the number of apoptotic cells in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex on day 3 and the number of viable neurons in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex on day 7. In addition, a single dose of saline or H2-rich saline was administered intraperitoneally, and blood H2 levels in the carotid artery and IVC were measured. On day 3 of ischemia/reperfusion, the number of neurons undergoing apoptosis in the cortex was significantly lower in the H2-rich saline group than in the saline group, and on day 7, the number of viable neurons in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex was significantly higher in the H2-rich saline group. Intraperitoneal administration of H2-rich saline resulted in large increases in H2 concentration in the IVC ranging from 0.00183 mg/L (0.114%) to 0.00725 mg/L (0.453%). In contrast, carotid H2 concentrations remained in the range of 0.00008 mg/L (0.0049%) to 0.00023 (0.0146%). On average, H2 concentrations in carotid artery were 0.04 times lower than in IVC. These results indicate that intraperitoneal administration of H2-rich saline significantly suppresses neuronal cell death after cerebral ischemia, even though H2 hardly reaches the brain.
Anomalies in dye-terminator DNA sequencing caused by a natural G-quadruplex
Authors: Brush George S.
Published: December 2022

A G-rich DNA sequence from yeast that can form a non-canonical G-quadruplex structure was cloned into a plasmid vector and subjected to Sanger sequencing using dye-labeled dideoxynucleotides. Two different effects were observed. In one, presence of the G4 sequence on the template strand led to incorrect incorporation of an A residue at an internal position in the G4 sequence. In the other, the nascent strand caused attenuation of the readout coincident with synthesis of the G-rich DNA. The two effects are novel examples of disruption in DNA synthesis caused by a G4 sequence. These results provide a new example of a DNA structure that could influence genomic stability in human cells.
Understanding clinician connections to inform efforts to promote high-quality inflammatory bowel disease care
Authors: Cohen-Mekelburg Shirley , Van Tony , Yu Xianshi , Costa Deena Kelly , Manojlovich Milisa , Saini Sameer , Gilmartin Heather , Admon Andrew J. , Resnicow Ken , Higgins Peter D. R. , Siwo Geoffrey , Zhu Ji , Waljee Akbar K.
Published: December 2022

Background

Highly connected individuals disseminate information effectively within their social network. To apply this concept to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) care and lay the foundation for network interventions to disseminate high-quality treatment, we assessed the need for improving the IBD practices of highly connected clinicians. We aimed to examine whether highly connected clinicians who treat IBD patients were more likely to provide high-quality treatment than less connected clinicians.

Methods

We used network analysis to examine connections among clinicians who shared patients with IBD in the Veterans Health Administration between 2015–2018. We created a network comprised of clinicians connected by shared patients. We quantified clinician connections using degree centrality (number of clinicians with whom a clinician shares patients), closeness centrality (reach via shared contacts to other clinicians), and betweenness centrality (degree to which a clinician connects clinicians not otherwise connected). Using weighted linear regression, we examined associations between each measure of connection and two IBD quality indicators: low prolonged steroids use, and high steroid-sparing therapy use.

Results

We identified 62,971 patients with IBD and linked them to 1,655 gastroenterologists and 7,852 primary care providers. Clinicians with more connections (degree) were more likely to exhibit high-quality treatment (less prolonged steroids beta -0.0268, 95%CI -0.0427, -0.0110, more steroid-sparing therapy beta 0.0967, 95%CI 0.0128, 0.1805). Clinicians who connect otherwise unconnected clinicians (betweenness) displayed more prolonged steroids use (beta 0.0003, 95%CI 0.0001, 0.0006). The presence of variation is more relevant than its magnitude.

Conclusions

Clinicians with a high number of connections provided more high-quality IBD treatments than less connected clinicians, and may be well-positioned for interventions to disseminate high-quality IBD care. However, clinicians who connect clinicians who are otherwise unconnected are more likely to display low-quality IBD treatment. Efforts to improve their quality are needed prior to leveraging their position to disseminate high-quality care.
Number theory, borderline dimension and extensive entropy in distributions of ranked data
Authors: Velarde Carlos , Robledo Alberto
Published: December 2022

The consideration of an existing stochastic approach for the reproduction of ranked data pointed at a formal equivalence between its key mathematical expression and that for trajectories at the tangent bifurcation. This fact led to a nonlinear dynamical approach for rank distributions that shows similarities with universality classes in critical phenomena. The renormalization group (RG) fixed-point map f*(x) for a tangent bifurcation of arbitrary nonlinearity z > 1 has proved to be a powerful tool into which the formalism can be couched. The source distribution P(N) of the stochastic approach can be linked to f*(x) while the size-rank N(k) and frequency-rank F(k′) distributions are obtained, respectively, from the map trajectories xt and the sums of its positions. We provide now an extension to Number Theory as we obtain from the trajectories xt of f*(x) the numbers, or asymptotic approximations of them, for the Factorial, Natural, Prime and Fibonacci sets. A measure of the advance of these numbers towards infinity is given by sums of positions that represent their reciprocals. We specify rank distribution universality classes, already associated with real data, to these number sets. We find that the convergence of the series of number reciprocals occurs first at nonlinearity z = 2, that which corresponds to the classical Zipf law, and link this transition edge to the action of the attractor when it first reduces the fractal dimension of trajectory positions to zero. Furthermore, the search of logarithmic corrections common to borderline dimensions provides a link to the Prime numbers set. Finally, we find corroborating evidence of these logarithmic corrections from the analysis of large data sets for ranked earthquake magnitudes. The formalism links all types of ranked distributions to a generalized extensive entropy.
A new method of construction waste classification based on two-level fusion
Authors: Song Lin , Zhao Huixuan , Ma Zongfang , Song Qi
Published: December 2022

The automatic sorting of construction waste (CW) is an essential procedure in the field of CW recycling due to its remarkable efficiency and safety. The classification of CW is the primary task that guides automatic and precise sorting. In our work, a new method of CW classification based on two-level fusion is proposed to promote classification performance. First, statistical histograms are used to obtain global hue information and local oriented gradients, which are called the hue histogram (HH) and histogram of oriented gradients (HOG), respectively. To fuse these visual features, a bag-of-visual-words (BoVW) method is applied to code HOG descriptors in a CW image as a vector, and this process is named B-HOG. Then, based on feature-level fusion, we define a new feature to combine HH and B-HOG, which represent the global and local visual characteristics of an object in a CW image. Furthermore, two base classifiers are used to learn the information from the color feature space and the new feature space. Based on decision-level fusion, we propose a joint decision-making model to combine the decisions from the two base classifiers for the final classification result. Finally, to verify the performance of the proposed method, we collect five types of CW images as the experimental data set and use these images to conduct experiments on three different base classifiers. Moreover, we compare this method with other extant methods. The results demonstrate that our method is effective and feasible.
Bank liquidity and the risk-taking channel of monetary policy: An empirical study of the banking system in China
Authors: Wang Cong , Zhuang Lihuan
Published: December 2022

This paper addresses the impact of bank liquidity on risk-taking behaviour of Chinese banks, and provides evidence for a risk-taking channel of monetary policy operating through bank liquidity. By using bank-level panel data from 123 Chinese commercial banks during 2003–2018, it is found that banks facing lower liquidity risk will be encouraged to take more risk. Moreover, loose monetary policy leads to more aggressive risk-taking by reducing the bank liquidity risk, namely a liquidity risk-taking channel of monetary policy. These findings suggest that authorities should give full consideration to the influence of the monetary policy on bank risk-taking through bank liquidity channels.
A novel open-source raspberry Pi-based behavioral testing in zebrafish
Authors: Li Yunlin , Wu Fengye , Wu Qinyan , Liu Wenya , Li Guanghui , Yao Benxing , Xiao Ran , Hu Yudie , Wang Junsong
Published: December 2022

The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is widely used as a promising high-throughput model organism in neurobehavioral research. The mobility of zebrafish can be dissected into multiple behavior endpoints to assess its neurobehavioral performance. However, such facilities on the market are expensive and clumsy to be used in laboratories. Here, we designed a low-cost, automatic zebrafish behavior assay apparatus, barely without unintentional human operational errors. The data acquisition part, composed of Raspberry Pi and HQ Camera, automatically performs video recording and data storage. Then, the data processing process is also on the Raspberry Pi. Water droplets and inner wall reflection of multi-well cell culture plates (used for placing zebrafish) will affect the accuracy of object recognition. And during the rapid movement of zebrafish, the probability of zebrafish tracking loss increased significantly. Thus, ROI region and related thresholds were set, and the Kalman filter algorithm was performed to estimate the best position of zebrafish in each frame. In addition, all functions of this device are realized by the custom-written behavior analysis algorithm, which makes the optimization of the setup more efficient. Furthermore, this setup was also used to analyze the behavioral changes of zebrafish under different concentrations of alcohol exposure to verify the reliability and accuracy. The alcohol exposure induced an inverted U-shape dose-dependent behavior change in zebrafish, which was consistent with previous studies, showcasing that the data obtained from the setup proposed in this study are accurate and reliable. Finally, the setup was comprehensively assessed by evaluating the accuracy of zebrafish detection (precision, recall, F-score), and predicting alcohol concentration by XGBoost. In conclusion, this study provides a simple, and low-cost package for the determination of multiple behavioral parameters of zebrafish with high accuracy, which could be easily adapted for various other fields.
Risks to mental health of higher degree by research (HDR) students during a global pandemic
Authors: Brownlow Charlotte , Eacersall Douglas , Nelson Charles W. , Parsons-Smith Renée L. , Terry Peter C.
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected university students globally. Our study investigated mental health indicators among higher degree by research (HDR) students at a regional university in Queensland, Australia. A total of 231 HDR students (female = 137, male = 94) completed the Brunel Mood Scale to assess the constructs of Tension, Depression, Anger, Vigor, Fatigue, and Confusion. A subset of 11 students participated in three focus groups to explore their experiences. Results showed that reported mood among HDR students was generally more negative than population norms, although more positive than moods reported previously during the pandemic. A total of 52 participants (22.5%) reported mood profiles that indicated elevated risk of mental ill-health. Mood profiles varied significantly by gender, age, study mode (full-time/part-time), location (on-campus/online), and citizenship (domestic/international). Quantitative data were supported by focus group findings, which identified mental health and wellbeing as key themes of concern to HDR students. Our findings indicate that support mechanisms to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of HDR students should be a priority for universities.