bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Speech Neuroprosthesis in the Frontal Lobe and Hippocampus: Decoding High-Frequency Activity into Phonemes
Authors: Tankus Ariel , Stern Einat , Klein Guy , Kaptzon Nufar , Nash Lilac , Marziano Tal , Shamia Omer , Gurevitch Guy , Bergman Lottem , Goldstein Lilach , Fahoum Firas , Strauss Ido
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Loss of speech due to injury or disease is devastating. Here, we report a novel speech neuroprosthesis that artificially articulates building blocks of speech based on high-frequency activity in brain areas never harnessed for a neuroprosthesis before: anterior cingulate and orbitofrontal cortices, and hippocampus.

METHODS:

A 37-year-old male neurosurgical epilepsy patient with intact speech, implanted with depth electrodes for clinical reasons only, silently controlled the neuroprosthesis almost immediately and in a natural way to voluntarily produce 2 vowel sounds.

RESULTS:

During the first set of trials, the participant made the neuroprosthesis produce the different vowel sounds artificially with 85% accuracy. In the following trials, performance improved consistently, which may be attributed to neuroplasticity. We show that a neuroprosthesis trained on overt speech data may be controlled silently.

CONCLUSION:

This may open the way for a novel strategy of neuroprosthesis implantation at earlier disease stages (eg, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), while speech is intact, for improved training that still allows silent control at later stages. The results demonstrate clinical feasibility of direct decoding of high-frequency activity that includes spiking activity in the aforementioned areas for silent production of phonemes that may serve as a part of a neuroprosthesis for replacing lost speech control pathways.
Spermatogonial stem cells in the 129 inbred strain exhibit unique requirements for self-renewal
Authors: Kanatsu-Shinohara Mito , Yamamoto Takuya , Morimoto Hiroko , Liu Tianjiao , Shinohara Takashi
Published: June 2024

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) undergo self-renewal division to sustain spermatogenesis. Although it is possible to derive SSC cultures in most mouse strains, SSCs from a 129 background never proliferate under the same culture conditions, suggesting they have distinct self-renewal requirements. Here, we established long-term culture conditions for SSCs from mice of the 129 background (129 mice). An analysis of 129 testes showed significant reduction of GDNF and CXCL12, whereas FGF2, INHBA and INHBB were higher than in testes of C57BL/6 mice. An analysis of undifferentiated spermatogonia in 129 mice showed higher expression of Chrna4, which encodes an acetylcholine (Ach) receptor component. By supplementing medium with INHBA and Ach, SSC cultures were derived from 129 mice. Following lentivirus transduction for marking donor cells, transplanted cells re-initiated spermatogenesis in infertile mouse testes and produced transgenic offspring. These results suggest that the requirements of SSC self-renewal in mice are diverse, which has important implications for understanding self-renewal mechanisms in various animal species.
Impact of Eccentric versus Concentric Cycling Exercise on Neuromuscular Fatigue and Muscle Damage in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: HUCTEAU ELYSE , MALLARD JORIS , BARBI CHIARA , VENTURELLI MASSIMO , SCHOTT ROLAND , TRENSZ PHILIPPE , PFLUMIO CAROLE , KALISH-WEINDLING MICHAL , PIVOT XAVIER , FAVRET FABRICE , DUCROCQ GUILLAUME P. , DUFOUR STÉPHANE P. , PAGANO ALLAN F. , HUREAU THOMAS J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study investigated the magnitude and etiology of neuromuscular fatigue and muscle damage induced by eccentric cycling compared with conventional concentric cycling in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

After a gradual familiarization protocol for eccentric cycling, nine patients with early-stage breast cancer performed three cycling sessions in eccentric or concentric mode. The eccentric cycling session (ECC) was compared with concentric cycling sessions matched for power output (CONpower; 80% of concentric peak power output, 95 ± 23 W) or oxygen uptake (

; 10 ± 2 mL·min·kg−1). Preexercise to postexercise changes (30-s through 10-min recovery) in knee extensor maximal voluntary contraction force (MVC), voluntary activation, and quadriceps potentiated twitch force (Q
tw) were quantified to determine global, central, and peripheral fatigue, respectively. Creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were measured in the plasma before and 24 h after exercise as markers of muscle damage.

Results

Compared with CONpower (−11% ± 9%) and

(−5% ± 5%), the ECC session resulted in a greater decrease in MVC (−25% ± 12%) postexercise (P < 0.001). Voluntary activation decreased only in ECC (−9% ± 6% postexercise, P < 0.001). The decrease in Q
tw was similar postexercise between ECC and CONpower (−39% ± 21% and −40% ± 16%, P > 0.99) but lower in

(P < 0.001). The CONpower session resulted in twofold greater

compared with the ECC and

sessions (P < 0.001). No change in creatine kinase or lactate dehydrogenase activity was reported from preexercise to 24 h postexercise.

Conclusions

The ECC session induced greater neuromuscular fatigue compared with the concentric cycling sessions without generating severe muscle damage. ECC is a promising exercise modality for counteracting neuromuscular maladaptation in patients with breast cancer.
The Influence of Aging on the Unfolded Protein Response in Human Skeletal Muscle at Rest and after Acute Exercise
Authors: MICHIE KELLY L. , KUNZ HAWLEY E. , DASARI SURENDRA , LANZA IAN R.
Published: June 2024

Background

The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a proteostatic process that is activated in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress. It is currently unclear how aging influences the chronic and adaptive UPR in human skeletal muscle. Here we determined the effect of aging on UPR activation at rest, in response to exercise, and the associations with muscle function.

Methods

Thirty young (20–35 yr) and 50 older (65–85 yr) individuals were enrolled. Vastus lateralis biopsies were performed at rest and 3 and 48 h after a single bout of resistance exercise. The abundance of UPR-related transcripts and proteins was measured by RNA sequencing and Western blotting, respectively. Fractional synthetic rates of muscle protein were determined by mass spectrometry after intravenous infusion of 13C6 phenylalanine.

Results

Older adults demonstrated elevated transcriptional and proteomic markers of UPR activation in resting muscle. Resting UPR gene expression was negatively associated with muscle strength and power in older adults. The UPR is similarly activated by acute resistance exercise in young and older adults and positively associated with muscle function but not the anabolic response to exercise.

Conclusions

Skeletal muscle from older adults exhibits chronically activated UPR, which accompanies functional decline. The adaptive UPR is a proteostatic mechanism that is upregulated in response to exercise in young and older adults and positively associated with muscle function.
Revealing Stereotypes: Evidence from Immigrants in Schools
Authors: Alesina Alberto , Carlana Michela , La Ferrara Eliana , Pinotti Paolo
Published: June 2024

We study how people change their behavior after being made aware of bias. Teachers in Italian schools give lower grades to immigrant students relative to natives of comparable ability. In two experiments, we reveal to teachers their own stereotypes, measured by an Implicit Association Test (IAT). In the first, we find that learning one’s IAT before assigning grades reduces the native-immigrant grade gap. In the second, IAT disclosure and generic debiasing have similar average effects, but there is heterogeneity: teachers with stronger negative stereotypes do not respond to generic debiasing but change their behavior when informed about their own IAT. (JEL D91, I24, J15, J45)
100 Years of Rising Corporate Concentration
Authors: Kwon Spencer Y. , Ma Yueran , Zimmermann Kaspar
Published: June 2024

We collect data on the size distribution of US businesses for 100 years, and use these data to estimate the concentration of production (e.g., asset share or sales share of top businesses). The data show that concentration has increased persistently over the past century. Rising concentration was stronger in manufacturing and mining before the 1970s, and stronger in services, retail, and wholesale after the 1970s. The results are robust to different measurement methods and consistent across different historical sources. Our findings suggest that large firms have become more important in the US economy for a long period of time. (JEL D22, E24, L11, L25, N12)
The New York Scale of Anhedonia: Development and Validation of a New Measure
Authors: Barahmand Usha , Tewari Amisha , Iskander Simona , Castellanos Kayla , Yuabov Betty , Hermann Ezra
Published: June 2024

Aim of the study

The aim of this research was to develop and validate an instrument to screen for the presence of and change in the experience of anhedonia.

Subject or material and methods

An initial set of 23 items assessing intensity and change in lack of pleasure and loss of interest in various hedonic domains was created to form the New York Anhedonia Scale (NYSA). Study 1 explored the reliability, factor structure and item quality of the NYSA, which assessed the 23 items in two parts: Part A focused on identifying the presence and intensity of anhedonia, while Part B assessed change in anhedonia. A sample of 265 adults responded to the instrument via social media platforms.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis of the 23-item NYSA revealed that 15 items clustered into two factors: sensory and physical anhedonia and social anhedonia. Study 2 evaluated the psychometric properties of the final version of the NYSA using a sample of 238 adults. The concurrent and convergent validity of the final version of the NYSA was examined with the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) and the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS). Good concurrent validity was found with the SHAPS and convergent validity with the SIAS. Reliability of the NYSA subscales was high across both studies.

Discussion

The NYSA is a tool different from other measures of anhedonia as it is not only quick to administer but also provides information regarding anhedonia intensity and change.

Conclusions

The NYSA is a useful and promising instrument for screening and assessing anhedonia in the general population and in clinical settings.
The Significance of Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning in Schizophasia Description. Identification of Research Trends and Perspectives in Schizophrenia Language Studies
Authors: Mazur Michał , Krukow Paweł
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Language and speech serve as significant biomarkers for psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. The linguistic features associated with schizophasia have been a focal point since the early descriptions of schizophrenia. Over the past twenty-five years, scientific reflection on language in mental illnesses has dynamically provided new data identifying the complex phenomenon of speech pathology in schizophrenia.
Material and methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using SCOPUS data, focusing on word co-occurrence patterns in schizophrenia research. VOSviewer was employed for visualization, and semantic relationships between words were explored.
Results: An analysis has revealed trends and gaps in research on schizophasia. Integrating temporal and spatial visualizations of metadata has allowed for the identification of currently employed measures of incoherence in schizophatic texts across various levels of linguistic organization. Keyword modeling has demonstrated a growing interest in utilizing artificial intelligence techniques to develop linguistic biomarkers for schizophrenia and other mental disorders.
Conclusions: The harmonization of computational methods for measuring narrative, dialogic, and prosodic coherence holds promise, particularly in cross-validation studies involving other neuroindicators of mental disorders. Developing linguistic biomarkers using broadly understood artificial intelligence requires multidisciplinary research teams integrating experts from psychiatry, neurolinguistics, neurologopedics, and AI engineering. Clear domain-specific regulations are essential to ensure accurate conclusions and ethical considerations. The study of schizophasia prospects is particularly evident at the lexical, semantic, and syntactic levels, along with affective and neurophysiological variables.

Keywords: language, schizophasia, speech pathology, bibliomeric analysis, formal thought disorder
A qualitative study of home-visiting oral health care experience in vulnerable populations
Authors: Moon Sang-Eun , Lee Bo-Ram , Jeong Min-Sook , Lee Jae-Ra , Kim Seon-Yeong , Ha Myung-Ok , Kim Il-Shin , Lim Hyeong-Seok , Lee Mi-Ra , Yun Young-Ae , Hong Sun-Hwa
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore and analyze experiences with home-visiting oral health education in vulnerable populations and to provide foundational data necessary for the development of preventive strategies for oral health promotion among these patients. Methods: Using a phenomenological research, in-depth interviews were conducted between August 29 and October 31, 2023 with 20 vulnerable individuals participating in the Home Visit Oral Health Education Program under the Gwangju+ Gwangsan Integrated Care Service project spearheaded by the Gwangju Medical Welfare Cooperative. Results: After analyzing the contents of the participants’ experiences, 130 meaningful words and 14 subcategories were identified and categorized into five major themes. Participants expressed discomfort when chewing or swallowing food and felt burdened by visits to the dentist. Although they experienced considerable loneliness because they spent a significant amount of time alone, they enjoyed communicating through visitation care and expressed gratitude for receiving oral health education. Conclusions: Oral health education through home visits cam increase awareness of oral health management among vulnerable populations and serve as an important means of improving their quality of life.
The effect of dental hygienist work cooperation and compensation satisfaction on job embeddedness: mediating effect of positive psychological capital
Authors: Kim Ju-Eon , Kim Seon-Yeong
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of dental hygienists’ cooperation and compensation satisfaction on job embeddedness through positive psychological capital, and to provide basic data on ways to improve the welfare of dental hygienists and the quality of medical services. Methods: From July 1 to 20, 2023, a questionnaire survey was administered to 206 dental hygienists via an online link. SPSS Statistics ver. 22.0 was used to conduct the frequency analysis, t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, multiple regression analysis and hierarchical multiple regression. Results: Factors influencing dental hygienists’ job embeddedness were type of compensation satisfaction (β=0.362, p<0.001), intangible compensation satisfaction (β=0.190, p<0.001), cooperation between dental hygienists (β=0.178, p<0.05), and age (β=0.112, p<0.05). Positive psychological capital was found to have a complete mediating effect on work cooperation in the effect of dental hygienists’ job embeddedness (p>0.05), and partial mediating effect on compensation satisfaction (p<0.01). As a result of the Sobel test, it was confirmed that it was statistically significant as dental hygienist work cooperation (Z=2.339, p=0.019), dentist work cooperation (Z=1.985, p=0.047), intangible compensation satisfaction (Z=2.286, p=0.022), and type compensation satisfaction (Z=1.980, p=0.048). Conclusions: In order to improve the work environment of dental hygienists, develop programs to improve positive psychological capital, secure access to education, and various related studies are needed.
Australia and China: Friends or Foes? Implications for Security in the Indo-Pacific Region
Authors: Krukowska Monika Magdalena
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The research aims to delineate and explain the state of bilateral relations between Australia and China in the context of the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.

Material and methods

The main tools used to achieve the objectives mentioned above include a literature analysis, statements, diplomatic and quantitative data from governmental sites, and logical reasoning.

Results

Reliable and balanced bilateral relations between the People’s Republic of China, the largest regional power, and Australia, the most influential Western outpost in the Indo-Pacific, are sine qua non condition of stability in the region. However, within the last decade, there was far too much uncertainty and malevolence between the two parties to pass unnoticed: trade and investment restrictions on Chinese companies, not to mention political tensions due to unprecedented Chinese interference in Australia’s domestic affairs. The article analyzes bilateral Sino-Australian relations, including political, economic, and social dimensions, in the context of regional security issues.

Conclusions

Relations between China and Australia are underpinned by their strong economic interdependence and Australia’s security alliance with the U.S. While concerns over trade tensions may soon be over, Australia needs to accommodate the reality of China’s more active presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
John Paul II's pontificate in the broadcasts of Radio Free Europe’s Polish Broadcasting Station
Authors: Kristanova Evelina
Published: June 2024

Cel pracy

W artykule chciano odpowiedzieć na pytanie o rolę pontyfikatu Jana Pawła II w przekazach Rozgłośni Polskiej RWE w latach 1978-1994.

Materiał i metody

W tym celu przesłuchano wybrane audycje dostępne online w serwisie Radia Wolności. Materiał źródłowy porównano z publikacjami prasowymi w miesięczniku „Na Antenie”. Tłem do rozważań stała się dostępna literatura przedmiotu m.in. wspomnienia, korespondencje, biografie i opracowania naukowe. Do podstawowych metod zastosowanych w artykule należały analiza zawartości mediów i prasy oraz analiza krytyczna piśmiennictwa. Przydatna była również analiza porównawcza informacji zawartych w różnych źródłach.

Wyniki

Analiza dowiodła, że emisje radiowe dotyczące osoby papieża miały nie tylko charakter religijny, społeczny i polityczny ale także kulturowy. Sporo miejsca w eterze zajęły transmisje pielgrzymek papieskich do Polski i innych państw, relacje z przemówień okolicznościowych oraz bieżące wypowiedzi głowy Kościoła o wydarzeniach w kraju.

Wnioski

Sporo miejsca w eterze zajęły transmisje pielgrzymek papieskich do Polski i innych państw, relacje z przemówień okolicznościowych oraz bieżące wypowiedzi głowy Kościoła o wydarzeniach w kraju m.in. o NSZZ Solidarność, stanie wojennym, uwięzieniu Lecha Wałęsy, zabiciu ks. Jerzego Popiełuszki. Dziennikarze RWE zrelacjonowali zarówno wybór na Stolicę Apostolską kardynała Karola Wojtyły, jak też szczegóły zamachu w 1981 r. Propagowaną formą przekazu były jego oryginalne nagrania homilii, kazań i rozważań.
Nonlinear optical absorption and ultrafast carrier dynamics in layered tin diselenide quantum dots
Authors: Wang Di , Huang Li , Cai Shuguang , Xiao Xueqing , Huang Xingfang , Zheng Chan
Published: June 2024

Quantum dots (QDs) derived from typical two-dimensional materials present attractive unique chemical and physical properties because of the quantum-confinement effect. Herein, high-quality layered tin diselenide (SnSe2) QDs with controllable size and thickness were prepared from layered bulk SnSe2 crystals using a simple, effective, and economical mechanical and liquid exfoliation technique. The resulting SnSe2 QDs were subsequently incorporated into chemically stable transparent silica-gel glasses using a sol–gel method. The nonlinear optical (NLO) absorption of the SnSe2 QDs was systematically explored using a combination of open-aperture Z-scan and pump–probe technologies. The derived NLO parameters and ultrafast carrier dynamics of the QDs were comparable to those of reported low-dimensional materials. Interestingly, the layered SnSe2 QDs exhibited thickness/layer-dependent NLO properties and pulse duration-dependent saturable absorption and reverse saturable absorption in both dimethylformamide suspensions and solid silica-gel glasses. Such unique NLO characteristics make layered SnSe2 QDs a promising candidate for technological innovations in areas including optoelectronics and nonlinear optics.
Coagulation depth estimation using a line scanner for depth-resolved laser speckle contrast imaging
Authors: Johansson Johannes D. , Hultman Martin , Saager Rolf
Published: June 2024

Partial-thickness burn wounds extend partially through the dermis, leaving many pain receptors intact and making the injuries very painful. Due to the painfulness, quick assessment of the burn depth is important to not delay surgery of the wound if needed. Laser speckle imaging (LSI) of skin blood flow can be helpful in finding severe coagulation zones with impaired blood flow. However, LSI measurements are typically too superficial to properly reach the full depth of the adult dermis and cannot resolve the flow in depth. Diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) uses varying source-detector separations to allow differentiation of flow depths but requires time-consuming 2D scanning to form an image of the burn area. We here present a prototype for a hybrid DCS and LSI technique called speckle contrast diffuse correlation spectroscopy (scDCS) with the novel approach of using a laser line as a source and using the speckle contrast of averaged images to obtain an estimate of static scattering in the tissue. This will allow for fast non-contact 1D scanning to perform 3D tomographic imaging, making quantitative estimates of the depth and area of the coagulation zone from burn wounds. Simulations and experimental results from a volumetric flow phantom and a gelatin wedge phantom show promise to determine coagulation depth. The aim is to develop a method that, in the future, could provide more quantitative estimates of coagulation depth in partial thickness burn wounds to better estimate when surgery is needed.
The stabilized supralinear network accounts for the contrast dependence of visual cortical gamma oscillations
Authors: Holt Caleb J. , Miller Kenneth D. , Ahmadian Yashar
Published: June 2024

When stimulated, neural populations in the visual cortex exhibit fast rhythmic activity with frequencies in the gamma band (30-80 Hz). The gamma rhythm manifests as a broad resonance peak in the power-spectrum of recorded local field potentials, which exhibits various stimulus dependencies. In particular, in macaque primary visual cortex (V1), the gamma peak frequency increases with increasing stimulus contrast. Moreover, this contrast dependence is local: when contrast varies smoothly over visual space, the gamma peak frequency in each cortical column is controlled by the local contrast in that column’s receptive field. No parsimonious mechanistic explanation for these contrast dependencies of V1 gamma oscillations has been proposed. The stabilized supralinear network (SSN) is a mechanistic model of cortical circuits that has accounted for a range of visual cortical response nonlinearities and contextual modulations, as well as their contrast dependence. Here, we begin by showing that a reduced SSN model without retinotopy robustly captures the contrast dependence of gamma peak frequency, and provides a mechanistic explanation for this effect based on the observed non-saturating and supralinear input-output function of V1 neurons. Given this result, the local dependence on contrast can trivially be captured in a retinotopic SSN which however lacks horizontal synaptic connections between its cortical columns. However, long-range horizontal connections in V1 are in fact strong, and underlie contextual modulation effects such as surround suppression. We thus explored whether a retinotopically organized SSN model of V1 with strong excitatory horizontal connections can exhibit both surround suppression and the local contrast dependence of gamma peak frequency. We found that retinotopic SSNs can account for both effects, but only when the horizontal excitatory projections are composed of two components with different patterns of spatial fall-off with distance: a short-range component that only targets the source column, combined with a long-range component that targets columns neighboring the source column. We thus make a specific qualitative prediction for the spatial structure of horizontal connections in macaque V1, consistent with the columnar structure of cortex.
Assessing the extinction risk of the spontaneous flora in urban tree bases
Authors: Louvet Apolline , Mantoux Clément , Machon Nathalie
Published: June 2024

As the spatial arrangement of trees planted along streets in cities makes their bases potential ecological corridors for the flora, urban tree bases may be a key contributor to the overall connectivity of the urban ecosystem. However, these tree bases are also a highly fragmented environment in which extinctions are frequent. The goal of this study was to assess the plant species’ ability to survive and spread through urban tree bases. To do so, we developed a Bayesian framework to assess the extinction risk of a plant metapopulation using presence/absence data, assuming that the occupancy dynamics was described by a Hidden Markov Model. The novelty of our approach is to take into account the combined effect of low-distance dispersal and the potential presence of a seed bank on the extinction risk. We introduced a metric of the extinction risk and examined its performance over a wide range of metapopulation parameters. We applied our framework to yearly floristic inventories carried out in 1324 tree bases in Paris, France. While local extinction risks were generally high, extinction risks at the street scale varied greatly from one species to another. We identified 10 plant species that could survive and spread through urban tree bases, and three plant traits correlated with the extinction risk at the metapopulation scale: the maximal height, and the beginning and end of the flowering period. Our results suggest that some plant species can use urban tree bases as ecological corridors despite high local extinction risks by forming a seed bank. We also identified other plant traits correlated with the ability to survive in tree bases, related to the action of gardeners. Moreover, our findings demonstrate that our Bayesian estimation framework based on percolation theory has the potential to be extended to more general metapopulations.
Systematic data quality assessment of electronic health record data to evaluate study-specific fitness: Report from the PRESERVE research study
Authors: Razzaghi Hanieh , Goodwin Davies Amy , Boss Samuel , Bunnell H. Timothy , Chen Yong , Chrischilles Elizabeth A. , Dickinson Kimberley , Hanauer David , Huang Yungui , Ilunga K. T. Sandra , Katsoufis Chryso , Lehmann Harold , Lemas Dominick J. , Matthews Kevin , Mendonca Eneida A. , Morse Keith , Ranade Daksha , Rosenman Marc , Taylor Bradley , Walters Kellie , Denburg Michelle R. , Forrest Christopher B. , Bailey L. Charles
Published: June 2024

Study-specific data quality testing is an essential part of minimizing analytic errors, particularly for studies making secondary use of clinical data. We applied a systematic and reproducible approach for study-specific data quality testing to the analysis plan for PRESERVE, a 15-site, EHR-based observational study of chronic kidney disease in children. This approach integrated widely adopted data quality concepts with healthcare-specific evaluation methods. We implemented two rounds of data quality assessment. The first produced high-level evaluation using aggregate results from a distributed query, focused on cohort identification and main analytic requirements. The second focused on extended testing of row-level data centralized for analysis. We systematized reporting and cataloguing of data quality issues, providing institutional teams with prioritized issues for resolution. We tracked improvements and documented anomalous data for consideration during analyses. The checks we developed identified 115 and 157 data quality issues in the two rounds, involving completeness, data model conformance, cross-variable concordance, consistency, and plausibility, extending traditional data quality approaches to address more complex stratification and temporal patterns. Resolution efforts focused on higher priority issues, given finite study resources. In many cases, institutional teams were able to correct data extraction errors or obtain additional data, avoiding exclusion of 2 institutions entirely and resolving 123 other gaps. Other results identified complexities in measures of kidney function, bearing on the study’s outcome definition. Where limitations such as these are intrinsic to clinical data, the study team must account for them in conducting analyses. This study rigorously evaluated fitness of data for intended use. The framework is reusable and built on a strong theoretical underpinning. Significant data quality issues that would have otherwise delayed analyses or made data unusable were addressed. This study highlights the need for teams combining subject-matter and informatics expertise to address data quality when working with real world data.
Critical domains for NACC2-NTRK2 fusion protein activation
Authors: Yang Wei , Meyer April N. , Jiang Zian , Jiang Xuan , Donoghue Daniel J.
Published: June 2024

Neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinases (NTRKs) belong to the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family. NTRKs are responsible for the activation of multiple downstream signaling pathways that regulate cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. NTRK-associated mutations often result in oncogenesis and lead to aberrant activation of downstream signaling pathways including MAPK, JAK/STAT, and PLCγ1. This study characterizes the NACC2-NTRK2 oncogenic fusion protein that leads to pilocytic astrocytoma and pediatric glioblastoma. This fusion joins the BTB domain (Broad-complex, Tramtrack, and Bric-a-brac) domain of NACC2 (Nucleus Accumbens-associated protein 2) with the transmembrane helix and tyrosine kinase domain of NTRK2. We focus on identifying critical domains for the biological activity of the fusion protein. Mutations were introduced in the charged pocket of the BTB domain or in the monomer core, based on a structural comparison of the NACC2 BTB domain with that of PLZF, another BTB-containing protein. Mutations were also introduced into the NTRK2-derived portion to allow comparison of two different breakpoints that have been clinically reported. We show that activation of the NTRK2 kinase domain relies on multimerization of the BTB domain in NACC2-NTRK2. Mutations which disrupt BTB-mediated multimerization significantly reduce kinase activity and downstream signaling. The ability of these mutations to abrogate biological activity suggests that BTB domain inhibition could be a potential treatment for NACC2-NTRK2-induced cancers. Removal of the transmembrane helix leads to enhanced stability of the fusion protein and increased activity of the NACC2-NTRK2 fusion, suggesting a mechanism for the oncogenicity of a distinct NACC2-NTRK2 isoform observed in pediatric glioblastoma.
Influence of large open-pit mines on the construction and optimization of urban ecological networks: A case study of Fushun City, China
Authors: Feng Dongmei , Bai Ge , Wang Liang
Published: June 2024

Under the long-term effect of mineral resource exploitation, especially open-pit mining, ecosystems are severely disturbed. Constructing and optimizing urban ecological networks influenced by open-pit mines based on mine–city coordination helps integrate ecological restoration and the construction of urban ecological environments. We applied an InVEST model to Fushun City to evaluate urban ecosystem services under the influence of large open-pit mines. Twenty-one key patches important for maintaining landscape connectivity were screened as the ecological sources in the network, from which ecological resistance surfaces were constructed by combining the impacts of mines on the environment. Minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) and gravity models were then used to extract and classify ecological corridors favorable to species migration and diffusion. Fushun City had large spatial differences in ecosystem service functions, with high-value areas concentrated in the forest-rich Dongzhou District and the northern Shuncheng District. Under the influence of open-pit mining, the ecosystem service capacity of the region south of the Hunhe River was poor and lacked ecological sources. Urban ecological resistance surfaces reached a maximum in the open-pit mining area, and 210 ecological corridors were estimated using the MCR model, of which 46 were important. Only two corridors crossed the West and East open pit, forming two “ecological fracture surfaces.” The Dongzhou and eastern Shuncheng districts had complex network structures and stable ecological environments. In contrast, the central and southern parts of Fushun City lacked ecological corridors owing to the influence of mining pits and gangue mountains, had simple network structures, and low connectivities with other sources. Combined with Fushun City’s development plan, we propose that ecological network optimization should add new ecological source sites, reconstruct and repair ecological corridors, and upgrade ecological breakpoints. This study provides reference and basis for ecological network research in mining cities influenced by open-pit mines.
Depressive symptom screening in elderly by passive sensing data of smartphones or smartwatches: A systematic review
Authors: Adhibai Rujira , Kosiyaporn Hathairat , Markchang Kamolphat , Nasueb Sopit , Waleewong Orratai , Suphanchaimat Rapeepong
Published: June 2024

Background

The elderly is commonly susceptible to depression, the symptoms for which may overlap with natural aging or other illnesses, and therefore miss being captured by routine screening questionnaires. Passive sensing data have been promoted as a tool for depressive symptoms detection though there is still limited evidence on its usage in the elderly. Therefore, this study aims to review current knowledge on the use of passive sensing data via smartphones and smartwatches in depressive symptom screening for the elderly.

Method

The search of literature was performed in PubMed, IEEE Xplore digital library, and PsycINFO. Literature investigating the use of passive sensing data to screen, monitor, and/or predict depressive symptoms in the elderly (aged 60 and above) via smartphones and/or wrist-worn wearables was included for initial screening. Studies in English from international journals published between January 2012 to September 2022 were included. The reviewed studies were further analyzed by a narrative analysis.

Results

The majority of 21 included studies were conducted in Western countries with a few in Asia and Australia. Most studies adopted a cohort study design (n = 12), followed by cross-sectional design (n = 7) and a case-control design (n = 2). The most popular passive sensing data was related to sleep and physical activity using an actigraphy. Sleep characteristics, such as prolonged wakefulness after sleep onset, along with lower levels of physical activity, exhibited a significant association with depression. However, cohort studies expressed concerns regarding data quality stemming from incomplete follow-up and potential confounding effects.

Conclusion

Passive sensing data, such as sleep, and physical activity parameters should be promoted for depressive symptoms detection. However, the validity, reliability, feasibility, and privacy concerns still need further exploration.
Assessing how alcohol use patterns relate to obesity among American adolescents from rural and urban areas: Five years of pooled data
Authors: Vazquez Christian E. , Brown Fawn A. , Ohri Faheem , Baiden Philip
Published: June 2024

Background

Obesity is associated with locality and alcohol use; however, less is known about how the interaction of these two factors may compound the risk of obesity among adolescents.

Objectives

This study examines the relationship between alcohol use and obesity among adolescents from rural and urban areas in the United States.

Methods

Data came from a sample of American adolescents aged 12–17 years from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2015–2019; n = 39,489). Obesity was regressed on age, sex, race/ethnicity, income, cigarette smoking, locality, and alcohol use, with an interaction term to examine locality x alcohol use. Predicted probabilities were plotted to assess the interaction.

Results

Compared to adolescents from urban areas, those from rural areas had 1.35 times higher odds of being obese (95% CI 1.25, 1.47). Predicted probabilities indicated that the probability of being obese was higher for rural adolescents at lower levels of drinking, up to about 40 drinks in the past 12 months.

Conclusions

Findings suggest rural-urban differences at the intersection of alcohol use and obesity could depend on the frequency of use, but overall adolescents from rural areas may be more at risk.
Assessment of polymeric mucin–drug interactions
Authors: Kishimoto Hisanao , Ridley Caroline , Inoue Katsuhisa , Thornton David J.
Published: June 2024

Mucosal-delivered drugs have to pass through the mucus layer before absorption through the epithelial cell membrane. Although there has been increasing interest in polymeric mucins, a major structural component of mucus, potentially acting as important physiological regulators of mucosal drug absorption, there are no reports that have systematically evaluated the interaction between mucins and drugs. In this study, we assessed the potential interaction between human polymeric mucins (MUC2, MUC5B, and MUC5AC) and various drugs with different chemical profiles by simple centrifugal method and fluorescence analysis. We found that paclitaxel, rifampicin, and theophylline likely induce the aggregation of MUC5B and/or MUC2. In addition, we showed that the binding affinity of drugs for polymeric mucins varied, not only between individual drugs but also among mucin subtypes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that deletion of MUC5AC and MUC5B in A549 cells increased the cytotoxic effects of cyclosporin A and paclitaxel, likely due to loss of mucin-drug interaction. In conclusion, our results indicate the necessity to determine the binding of drugs to mucins and their potential impact on the mucin network property.
Effective breastfeeding techniques and associated factors among lactating women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kitil Gemeda Wakgari , Butta Fikadu Wake , Tadesse Shimelis , Degefa Bekem Dibaba , Feyisa Gizu Tola , Demsash Addisalem Workie , Shibabaw Adamu Ambachew , Marami Shambel Negesse , Walle Agmasie Damtew , Dube Geleta Nenko , Wedajo Lema Fikadu , Dirirsa Dejene Edosa , Jifar Wakuma Wakene , Chereka Alex Ayenew
Published: June 2024

Background

Effective breastfeeding is crucial for maternal and child health, particularly in low-resource settings like Ethiopia. It encompasses a range of skills and strategies, including proper latch, positioning, and frequency of feeding. These techniques not only ensure sufficient milk transfer but also foster bonding between mother and child, enhancing the breastfeeding experience. To effectively prioritize maternal and child health, it is crucial to comprehensively understand the prevalence and factors influencing effective breastfeeding nationwide. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a pooled prevalence of effective breastfeeding techniques and associated factors among lactating mothers in Ethiopia.

Methods

The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist, focusing on studies conducted in Ethiopia. We identified eight relevant studies through Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Analysis was conducted using STATA version 11, and systematic data extraction employed a checklist to extract relevant data. I2 tests and the Cochrane Q test statistic were used to evaluate heterogeneity. To explore potential publication bias, Egger’s weighted regression, Begg’s test, and a funnel plot were utilized.

Results

We identified a total of 955 research articles. Eight studies meeting the eligibility criteria were incorporated into this meta-analysis and systematic review. The pooled prevalence of effective breastfeeding techniques was 41.99% [95% CI 32.16–51.81]. According to the results of the current meta-analysis, effective breastfeeding techniques were significantly associated with antenatal care follow-up [OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.10–2.78], maternal educational status [OR = 2.70, 95% CI 1.55–4.71], breastfeeding technique counseling [OR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.41–2.90], the absence of breast problems [OR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.49–3.43], breastfeeding experience [OR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.14–3.46], and immediate skin-to-skin contact [OR = 2.32, 95% CI 1.56–3.44].

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the vital role of various factors in shaping effective breastfeeding.

Implications

To improve practices and health outcomes, we recommend targeted interventions, such as strengthening antenatal care, implementing maternal education, and providing comprehensive breastfeeding counseling. Proactively addressing breast problems and prioritizing immediate skin-to-skin contact is crucial for successful breastfeeding.
Study protocol for transforming health equity research in integrated primary care: Antiracism as a disruptive innovation
Authors: Naar Sylvie , Pettus Carrie , Anderson Norman , Pooler-Burgess Meardith , Ralston Penny , Flynn Heather , Combs Todd , Baquet Claudia , Schatschneider Christopher , Luke Douglas
Published: June 2024

Among the consequences of systemic racism in health care are significant health disparities among Black/African American individuals with comorbid physical and mental health conditions. Despite decades of studies acknowledging health disparities based on race, significant change has not occurred. There are shockingly few evidence-based antiracism interventions. New paradigms are needed to intervene on, and not just document, racism in health care systems. We are developing a transformative paradigm for new antiracism interventions for primary care settings that integrate mental and physical health care. The paradigm is the first of its kind to integrate community-based participatory research and systems science, within an established model of early phase translation to rigorously define new antiracism interventions. This protocol will use a novel application of systems sciences by combining the qualitative systems sciences methods (group model building; GMB) with quantitative methods (simulation modeling) to develop a comprehensive and community-engaged view of both the drivers of racism and the potential impact of antiracism interventions. Community participants from two integrated primary health care systems will engage in group GMB workshops with researchers to 1) Describe and map the complex dynamic systems driving racism in health care practices, 2) Identify leverage points for disruptive antiracism interventions, policies and practices, and 3) Review and prioritize a list of possible intervention strategies. Advisory committees will provide feedback on the design of GMB procedures, screen potential intervention components for impact, feasibility, and acceptability, and identify gaps for further exploration. Simulation models will be generated based on contextual factors and provider/patient characteristics. Using Item Response Theory, we will initiate the process of developing core measures for assessing the effectiveness of interventions at the organizational-systems and provider levels to be tested under a variety of conditions. While we focus on Black/African Americans, we hope that the resulting transformative paradigm can be applied to improve health equity among other marginalized groups.
Physical modeling of the effect of shape, blockage, and flow variability on scour in culvert outlets
Authors: Ahmed Kaywan Othman , Kavianpour Mohammad Reza , Amini Ata , Aminpour Younes
Published: June 2024

The widespread use of culverts has prompted researchers to focus on developing precise designs to prevent their failure caused by scouring at the culvert outlet. This study employed physical modelling to investigate alternation in culvert outlets under different conditions, including variations in culvert shape, blockage, and flow discharge during steady and unsteady flow conditions. Box and circular culverts were examined with 0%, 15%, and 30% blockage rates at the culvert inlet. For unsteady flow conditions, two hydrographs were generated, each with nine distinct flow discharges, while for steady flow conditions, flow rates of up to 14 l/s and 22 l/s were used. The sediment and flow conditions were carefully selected to ensure clear water throughout the experiments. According to the study results, the scour profile exhibited more growth in the circular culvert compared to the box culvert across all cases. Furthermore, an increase in flow rate led to an increase in the scour hole dimension, and the scouring increased with a rise in hydrograph stepwise. However, when the degree of blockage was increased, a strictly proportional increase in scour depth was not observed across all cases. The results and data presented in this research can be used by other researchers in addition to being used by hydraulic designers.
Cost-effective analysis of hepatitis A vaccination in Kerala state, India
Authors: Gurav Yogesh Krishnarao , Bagepally Bhavani Shankara , Chitpim Natthakan , Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee , Gupte Mohan Digambar , Chaikledkaew Usa , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Thavorncharoensap Montarat
Published: June 2024

Several hepatitis A outbreaks have recently been reported in Kerala state, India. To inform coverage decision of hepatitis A vaccine in Kerala, this study aimed to examine the cost-effectiveness of 1) hepatitis A vaccination among children aged 1 year and individuals aged 15 years, and 2) serological screening of individuals aged 15 years and vaccination of susceptible as compared to no vaccination or vaccination without serological screening. Both live attenuated hepatitis A vaccine and inactivated hepatitis A vaccine were considered in the analysis. A combination of decision tree and Markov models with a cycle length of one year was employed to estimate costs and benefits of different vaccination strategies. Analysis were based on both societal and payer perspectives. The lifetime costs and outcomes were discounted by 3%. Our findings indicated that all strategies were cost-saving for both societal and payer perspectives. Moreover, budget impact analysis revealed that vaccination without screening among individuals aged 15 years could save the government’s budget by reducing treatment cost of hepatitis A. Our cost-effectiveness evidence supports the inclusion of hepatitis A vaccination into the vaccination program for children aged 1 year and individuals aged 15 years in Kerala state, India.