bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher TOX（Thymocyte selection-associated high mobility group box）expression in tumor microenvironment predicts poor prognosis in patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Li Sai , Yang Sifu , Hong Yupeng
Published: October 2022

Background:Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal gynecologic malignancies with a dismal prognosis that poses a serious threat to human health, highlighting the need for more knowledge about what is required for identifying some biomarkers for early diagnosis, prediction of prognosis and disease monitoring. TOX, a critical transcription factor related to the development of malignancies that contributing to lymphocytes not just T cells, had been proved prognostic value in some spectrum of cancers. Here, we aimed to study the prognostic role of TOX in ovarian cancer.Results:We found that TOX was not only expressed in CD8 T cells but also tumor cells. TOX expression score was higher in ovarian cancer tissues and correlated with survival status. Survival analysis revealed that ovarian cancer patients with high TOX expression score generally shorter overall survival and disease-free survival times. Univariate and Multivariate Cox demonstrated that TOX expression score could be used as an independent prognostic factor for patients with ovarian cancer.Conclusion:TOX expression in ovarian cancer could be a promising tool for predict overall survival of ovarian cancer patients.
The Impact of Social Capital and Social Environmental Factors on Mental Health and Flourishing: The Experiences of Migrants in France
Authors: De Jesus Maria , Warnock Bronwyn , Moumni Zoubida , Sougui Zara Hassan , Pourtau Lionel
Published: October 2022

Background There is growing interest on how social capital and related social environmental factors impact overall population health and well-being. The nature of migrants’ social environment changes once they migrate to a new context and these changes influence their mental health and well-being. However, there is limited scholarship on how these social environmental factors impact the mental health, well-being, and capacity to flourish of migrant populations. Methods The aim of the study, therefore, was to examine how specific social environmental factors—social networks, social support, and social cohesion at various levels (micro, meso, and macro)—influence the mental health, well-being, and capacity to flourish of migrants in France. We used a qualitative, inductive research design, in collaboration with a community-based organization to conduct 120 semi-structured interviews with migrants and asylum seekers in France. Results Participants described how their usual informal social networks comprised of family and friends had been disrupted since they migrated to France, which impacted their mental health and well-being. Conversely, staying connected with their informal transnational social networks via social media and developing ties with new local informal and formal social networks allowed them to receive different forms of social support, and buffered some of the negative mental health effects. However, the lack of social cohesion impeded migrants’ capacity to flourish. The emerging salient themes depicting a lack of social cohesion included a lack of belonging and marginalization, uprootedness and uncertainty, a lack of identity and security, and current harmful migration-related policies. Conclusion While social support derived from social networks buffered some negative impacts on migrant mental health and well-being, the overall lack of social cohesion ultimately impeded migrants’ capacity to flourish within their host communities, which was further exacerbated by harmful migration policies of exclusion within France. Introducing more inclusive policies related to the governance of migration and an intersectoral approach that views health in all policies is key to promoting social cohesion and flourishing among migrants in France.
Strengthening effect of amino and nitro groups on aluminum elemental organic framework and adsorption of bisphenol A in aqueous solution
Authors: Wang Bing , Zeng Yao , Ou Jinghan , Xiong Mingyang , Qiu Ruisi
Published: October 2022

Abstract
In recent years, there have been many applications of MOFs materials for adsorption. Researchers synthesize new MOFs materials by various methods, including the introduction of functional groups. In this study, three different groups of Aluminum-based MOFs (non-functionalized, amino functionalized and nitro functionalized) were synthesized by hydrothermal synthesis and used for typical EDCs, namely BPA adsorption. We use a variety of characterization methods to characterize it and batch adsorption experiments to investigate its adsorption properties, so as to explore the influence of different functional groups on the adsorption materials. The specific surface area of Al-MOF-NH2 is 6 times larger than that of Al-MOF according to the N2 adsorption and desorption isotherms of the material, that is, the BET of Al-MOF, Al-MOF-NH2 and Al-MOF-NO2 were 109.68 m2/g, 644.03 m2/g and 146.60 m2/g. It is worth noting that although the same synthesis method is used, the types of pore size are greatly changed due to the different functional groups. Al-MOF and Al-MOF-NO2 have more mesopores, while Al-MOF-NH2 is mainly microporous. At the same time, the adsorption capacity of Al-MOF, Al-MOF-NH2 and Al-MOF-NO2 on BPA was 46.43 mg/L, 227.78 mg/L and 155.84 mg/L, it can also be explained that the addition of amino functional groups makes Al-MOFs have better adsorption performance. In this study, the adsorption isotherms and adsorption kinetics of the three Al-MOFs materials for BPA were also studied to explain the different adsorption properties of different functional groups. The results show that the amino-functionalized materials have the pretty good characterization morphology, uniform particle distribution, appropriate particle size, the excellent specific surface area, and the better adsorption effect.
Analyzing the effect on performance and motivation of ASHA workers based on the incentive systems on the basis of geospatial context.
Authors: Kadam Shridhar , PANI SAUMYA RANJAN , Desaraju Shyamasundari , Rout Sarit Kumar , Tiwari Ritika , Chokshi Maulik , Nallala Srinivas , Zodpey Sanjay
Published: October 2022

Background: In the 75th World Health Assembly (WHA) (2022) – Accreted Social Health Activists (ASHAs) have been recognised for their outstanding contribution towards protecting and promoting health at World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Health Leaders Award. However, marginal attempts have been made to understand how geographical context can influence incentive and its effect on performance of ASHAs. This study seeks to address the gap by analysing the interplay between the geographical context, incentives, and performance of ASHA in the state of Odisha.
Methods: A mixed method (quantitative & qualitative) approach was used to understand the effect of monetary and non-monetary incentives on performance of ASHAs. The effect of incentives on ASHA’s performance in terms of motivation and job satisfaction as human resource management outcomes and service delivery targets and achievement as organizational outcome using the Vroom’s expectancy theory. A total of 54 key informant interviews were conducted in Balasore and Rayagada districts.
Results: The mean annual total incentives per ASHA in the block nearest to district headquarter in plain area district was INR 77,762 (~996 USD) and INR 66,201 (~847 USD) for distant block from district headquarter in the same district. In contrast, the mean annual total incentives per ASHA in the district in remote areas was INR 50,663 (~648 USD) for a nearest block to district and INR 58,725 (~752 USD) for distant block.
Conclusions: Along with cash incentives, more support should be given to ASHAs through capacity building, integration of ASHAs with other community stakeholders and appropriate mentoring and motivation which is greatly influenced by the varying geographical context.
Respiration of invasive bivalve Anadara kagoshimensis (Tokunaga, 1906) at the 14-days starvation and different oxygen content in sea water
Authors: Vialova Oksana
Published: October 2022

In the present work the influence of oxygen content in sea water and 14-days starvation on respiration rate of the bivalve species, Anadara kagoshimensis (Tokunaga, 1906), has been studied. The blood clams with shell height 25-30 mm have been used for experiments. Respiration rate varied in the wide range, from maximal value 89.9 mgO2·l-1 (at 100% saturation) to 5.0 µgО2·h-1·gww-1 (at 76% saturation) at the salinity 17-18 psu and temperature 18°C. The oxygen consumption of the blood clam was substantially lower compared to other benthic bivalves. Our results suggest the ability of A.kagoshimensis to rapidly transition from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism under conditions that are not critical for them.
Two-weeks starvation led to an increase in respiration rates of the blood clam A. kagoshimensis, which indicates an intensification of oxidative processes of organism by 35 ˗ 55%. The article discusses metabolic processes that require increased oxygen consumption.
Effects of switching from sacubitril/valsartan to valsartan alone on plasma levels of natriuretic peptides and myocardial remodeling in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Nakamura Akihiro , Kagaya Yuta , Saito Hiroki , Kanazawa Masanori , Miura Masanobu , Kondo Masateru , Sato Kenjiro , Endo Hideaki
Published: October 2022

Background: We examined the effect of switching from angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) to angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB) on plasma levels of natriuretic peptides and myocardial remodeling.
Methods: This is a prospective study that included 11 patients with heart failure (HF) treated with ARNI. The patients were divided into two groups: 5 patients who continued treatment with sacubitril/valsartan 400 mg/day (ARNI-continue group) and 6 patients who were switched to valsartan 160 mg/day (ARB-switch group). The primary endpoint was percent change (%Change) in plasma A-, B-, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (ANP, BNP, and NT-proBNP) levels from the baseline to week 24. The secondary endpoint was the change in echocardiographic parameters related to myocardial remodeling from the baseline to week 24.
Results: The %Change in ANP and NT-proBNPlevels was significantly greater in the ARB-switch group than that in the ARNI-continue group (ANP, −76.9% vs. −9.1%, P = 0.009; NT-proBNP, 57.9% vs. 17.3%, P = 0.016), whereas the %Change in BNP levels was not significantly different between the two groups (P= 0.175). In the ARB-switch group, there was a significant increase in left ventricular (LV) end-systolic volume (p = 0.043) and LV peak-systolic wall stress (P= 0.012) from the baseline to week 24 and a trend toward a decrease in LV ejection fraction (P = 0.080). In the ARNI-continue group, no differences in the echocardiographic parameters were observed from the baseline to week 24.
Conclusions: Switching from ARNI to ARB may worsen HF due to returning to myocardial remodeling induced by a sustained decline in ANP levels.
Regional wave climate projections forced by EURO-CORDEX winds for the Black Sea and Sea of Azov towards the end of the 21st century
Authors: Çakmak Recep Emre , Çalışır Emre , Lemos Gil , Akpınar Adem , Semedo Alvaro , Cardoso Rita M. , Soares Pedro M. M.
Published: October 2022

Wave phenomena impacts high commercial value coastal and offshore activities, infrastructures, and transportation. The knowledge of future wave conditions allows for consistent long-term planning and decision-making. The present study aims to provide robust, reliable projections of the potential future wave conditions of the Black Sea under the influence of climate change. For this purpose, an 8-member dynamic wave climate ensemble that accurately represents the Black Sea's present wave climate has been produced, and future projections are assessed and analyzed here. The wave climate ensemble was obtained by forcing the SWAN spectral wave model with eight regional wind fields from the EURO-CORDEX. The future simulations of the regional wind fields are based on the RCP8.5 high emission scenario. The historical wave climate of the ensemble was evaluated against ERA5 reanalysis data. Projected changes in the mean wind and wave characteristics are examined by comparing historical and future simulations. In addition, the projected trends in the annual means during the future period of the wave simulations for significant wave height (Hs) and wave energy flux are also analyzed. The projections for Hs and wind speeds are pronounced with significant decreases of down to -10% across the basin, especially in the eastern region of the Black Sea. Changes in the Hs 99% percentiles of up to 16% are projected to occur. The projected changes in the annual mean of the wave energy flux are close to the projected changes in Hs means, while the seasonal changes (between − 15% and 12%) are expected to be higher.
The feasibility of a randomized controlled crossover trial to assess the effect of probiotic and prebiotic supplementation on the health of elite wheelchair athletes
Authors: Hertig-Godeschalk Anneke , Glisic Marija , Ruettimann Belinda , Valido Ezra , Capossela Simona , Stoyanov Jivko , Flueck Joelle L.
Published: October 2022

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) problems represent a health burden among Para athletes and can ultimately reduce athletic performance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a randomized controlled crossover trial (RCCT) assessing the effects of probiotics and prebiotic supplementation on the health of Swiss elite wheelchair athletes.
Methods: The RCCT was conducted between March 2021 and October 2021. Athletes were randomized into taking either the daily probiotic (3 g of probiotic preparation, including eight bacterial strains) or the daily prebiotic (5 g of oat bran) supplementation first. After the first supplementation phase (four weeks), a washout period (four weeks) and the second crossover supplementation phase (four weeks) followed. Data were collected at four study visits (every four weeks) and included: three-day training and nutrition diaries, the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaire, stool samples, and fasting blood samples. Several feasibility criteria were evaluated.
Results: A total of 43 elite wheelchair athletes were invited, of whom 14 (33%) consented (mean (standard deviation) age: 34 (9) years, eight females, 11 with a spinal cord injury). All athletes completed the study. Except for one missing stool sample and two missing diaries, all data were successfully collected for all athletes for all four visits. No serious adverse events occurred.
Conclusion: Despite the limited number of elite wheelchair athletes in Switzerland and the modest recruitment rate, the implementation of a RCCT among elite wheelchair athletes is feasible. The data collected in this study provides essential information for the design of the subsequent study which will include a larger cohort of physically active wheelchair users.
Genome-wide characterization and expression analysis of α-amylase and β-amylase genes underlying drought tolerance in cassava
Authors: Yang Taiyi , Li Hengrui , Li Liangwu , Wei Wanling , Huang Yuanhang , Xiong Faqian , Wei Maogui
Published: October 2022

Background
Starch hydrolysates are energy sources for plant growth and development, regulate osmotic pressure and transmit signals in response to biological and abiotic stresses. α-amylase (AMY) and β-amylase (BAM) are important enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of plant starch. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is treated as one of the most drought-tolerant crops, however, mechanisms how AMY and BAM response to drought in cassava are still unknown.
Results
Six MeAMY genes and ten MeBAM genes were identified and characterized in the cassava genome. Both MeAMY and MeBAM gene families contain four genes with alternative splicing. Tandem and fragment replications play an important role in the amplification of MeAMY and MeBAM genes. Both MeBAM5 and MeBAM10 have a BZR1/BES1 domain at the N-terminus, which may have transcription factor functions. The promoter regions of MeAMY and MeBAM genes contain a large number of cis-acting elements related to abiotic stress, and MeAMY1, MeAMY2 and MeBAM3 are proved as key genes in response to drought stress according to their expression patterns under drought. The starch content, soluble sugar content, and amylase activity in cassava significantly altered under different levels of drought stress.
Conclusions
These results could provide fundamental knowledge for further investigation of the function of starch metabolism under drought stress in cassava, offering new perspectives for understanding the underlying mechanism for its ability to survive and produce under drought.
Validation of the Grobman model for successful vaginal birth after cesarean section in Jordanian women.
Authors: Rawashdeh Hasan , AlJalodi Haneen , Shamleh Rafeef Abu , Alshorman Sumyah , AboShindi Heba , Awawdeh Shatha
Published: October 2022

Background
To validate both models of Grobman nomogram (The antenatal and the intrapartum model) for predicting successful intended Vaginal Birth After Caesarean delivery (VBAC) in a Jordanian population.
Methods
A retrospective study has identified all live, singleton, term, cephalic pregnancies with a previous lower segment cesarean section who opted for a Trial Of Labour After Caesarean Section (TOLAC) between January 2014 to December 2020. Five variables were used for the antenatal model, while ten variables were used for the intrapartum model. Two sets of patients were created: one for the antenatal model and the other for the intrapartum model. The predicted probability for each woman was calculated and compared with the successful VBAC for each category. The predictive ability was assessed with a receiver operating characteristic, and the area under the curve (AUC) was determined.
Results
There were seven hundred and fourteen complete cases for the antenatal model and six hundred ninety-seven for the intrapartum model. Our population's overall number of VBAC is 83.89% for the antenatal group and 82.92% for the intrapartum group. The mean predicted probability for a successful intended VBAC using the antenatal and intrapartum models were 79.53 ± 13.47 and 78.64 ± 14.03, respectively. The antenatal and intrapartum predictive models ROC had an AUC of 65% (95% CI: 60%-71%) and 64% (95% CI: 58%-69%), respectively.
Conclusions
Both models are validated in the Jordanian population. Adapting the antenatal model as supporting evidence can lead to a higher rate of TOLAC.
Development of a Same Day Access Initiative in Radiation Oncology: Preliminary Findings from a Prospective Pilot
Authors: Chen Allen M. , Garcia Andrew D. , Alexandrescu Marcela , Truong Annie , Senthil Maheswari
Published: October 2022

Introduction: The timely delivery of healthcare is an important quality indicator that has been shown to correlate with outcomes for cancer patients. We present our single-institution experience with the development of a same day access scheduling initiative.
Methods and Materials: From March 2021 to August 2022, all patients referred for new consultation to a tertiary care-based radiation oncology department were offered same day appointments as part of a prospective pilot initiative. The timespan of this analysis was categorized into 2 successive periods over 36 months—a 18-month pre-initiative period (September 2019 to February 2021) and another subsequent one (March 2021 to August 2022). Descriptive statistics were used to study the impact of this initiative on access-related benchmarks.
Results: A total of 2890 patients were referred. Among the 2107 patients scheduled, three hundred and sixteen (15%) opted for same day appointments. Black, Latino, and Asian patients were significantly more likely to use same day access versus Caucasian patients (p=0.01). The same day access initiative increased the proportion of patients seen within 5 days from referral from 23% to 58% (p<0.001). The median time from referral to consult was 11 days (range, 0 to 149 days) prior to the implementation of the same day access initiative compared to 3 days (range, 0 to 101 days) after (p<0.001). The no-show rate was reduced from 11% to 5% with the initiative (p<0.001).
Conclusions: A significant proportion of patients elected for same day appointments illustrating the high demand for expedient delivery of care. The implementation of this same day access initiative was not only feasible but enhanced operational efficiency and practice performance in the outpatient setting.
Entanglement-interference complementarity and experimental demonstration in a superconducting circuit
Authors: Yang Zhen-Biao , Huang Xin-Jie , Han Pei-Rong , Ning Wen , Yang Shou-Bang , Zhu Xin , L\\ddot{u} Jia-Hao , Zheng Ri-Hua , Li Hekang , Xu Kai , Yang Chui-Ping , Wu Qi-Cheng , Zheng Dongning , Fan Heng , Zheng Shi-Biao
Published: October 2022

Quantum entanglement between an interfering particle and a detector for acquiring the which-path information plays a central role for enforcing Bohr’s complementary principle, but the quantitative relation between this entanglement and the fringe visibility remains untouched upon for an initial mixed state. Here we find an equality for quantifying this relation. Our equality characterizes how well the interference pattern can be preserved when an interfering particle, initially carrying a definite amount of coherence, is entangled with a which-path detector to a certain degree. This equality provides a connection between entanglement and interference in the unified framework of coherence, revealing the quantitative entanglement-interference complementarity. We experimentally demonstrate this relation with a superconducting circuit, where a resonator serves as a which-path detector for an interfering qubit. The results demonstrate quantum entanglement is the mechanism for prohibiting any detector from acquiring which-path information without deteriorating the interference pattern, which was not confirmed previously.
Postoperative kinesiophobia in patients with acute type A aortic dissection: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Lin Yanjuan , Chen Yaqiong , Peng Yanchun , Huang Xizhen , Chen Liangwan
Published: October 2022

Objective:There have been no studies on postoperative kinesiophobia in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD). In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional investigation on the occurrence of postoperative kinesiophobia in patients with AAAD, and discussed the influence of related variables on kinesiophobia.Methods:A total of 312 patients diagnosed with AAAD treated with surgery at Our Center from January 2019 to December 2021 were enrolled. The level of kinesiophobia was assessed using the Cardiac Motor fear Scale (TSK-SV-HEART), and patients with kinesiophobia were classified as patients with TSK > 37. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to determine the influence of related factors on kinesiophobia in AAAD patients.Results:A total of 264 patients were included in this study, and the mean score of postoperative kinesiophobia was 38.15±6.66, with an incidence of 46.2%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the following variables could reduce the occurrence of kinesiophobia: Education level (OR=11.34, 95%CI: 3.62-35.54), general self-efficacy (OR=0.73, 95%CI: 0.61–0.87), family care index (OR=0.26, 95%CI: 0.15–0.46), facing style (OR=0.66, 95%CI: 0.54–0.81); Two variables increased the level of kinesiophobia: avoidance style (OR=1.73, 95%Cl: 1.40–2.15) and yielding style (OR=2.04, 95%CI: 1.56–2.66) were risk factors for kinesiophobia in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (P < .001).Conclusion:The incidence of postoperative kinesiophobia in patients with AAAD is high, and it is related to various factors. Medical staff must be attentive to the potential occurrence of kinesiophobia during postoperative rehabilitation.
“I am not a number!” Opinions and preferences of people with intellectual disability about genomic healthcare.
Authors: Palmer Elizabeth , Danker Joanne , Strnadová Iva , Loblinzk Julie , Jackaman Karen-Maia , Scully Jackie Leach ,   Sierra Classen Sierra Classen1, Dunn Manjekah , Sarfaraz Skie , Tso Michelle , Boyle Jackie , Fitzgerald Vanessa
Published: October 2022

There is limited research exploring the knowledge and experiences of genomic healthcare from the perspective of people with intellectual disability. This study, conducted in New South Wales (Australia), addresses this gap. Eighteen adults with intellectual disability and eight support people were interviewed in this inclusive research study. The transcribed interviews were analysed using inductive content analysis. Five main themes emerged: (i) access to genomic healthcare services is inequitable, with several barriers to the informed consent process; (ii) the experiences and opinions of people with intellectual disability are variable, with some feeling frustrated, excluded and frightened; (ii) genomic counselling and diagnoses can be profoundly impactful, but many faced barriers translating a genomic diagnosis into tailored healthcare, appropriate support, peer connections and reproductive planning; (iv) people with intellectual disability have a high incidence of exposure to trauma and can find genomic healthcare emotionally triggering; (v) recommendations for a more respectful and inclusive model of genomic healthcare. Co-designed point-of-care educational and consent resources accompanied by tailored professional education for healthcare providers are required to improve the equity and appropriateness of genomic healthcare for people with intellectual disability.
Comparison of the therapeutic effects between stem cells and exosomes in primary ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Park Hang-soo , Chugh Rishi Man , Seok Jin , Cetin Esra , Mohammed Hanaa , Siblini Hiba , Ali Farzana Liakath , Ghasroldasht Mohammad Mousaei , Alkelani Hiba , Elsharoud Amro , Ulin Mara , Esfandyari Sahar , Al-Hendy Ayman
Published: October 2022

Background:Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) refers to the loss of ovarian function under the age of 40 and resultsin amenorrhea and infertility. Our previous studies have shown that transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived exosomesin chemotherapy-induced POI mouse ovaries can reverse the POI and eventually achieve pregnancy. Based on our recent studies, MSC-derived exosomeshave almost equal therapeutic potentials as transplanted MSCs. However, it is still unclear whether exosomes can completely replace MSCs in POI treatment. For the reliable application of cell-free treatment for POI patients using exosomes, there is a need to understand whetherthere is any outcome and effectiveness differencebetween MSC and MSC-derived exosome treatment.Methods:Comparing the therapeutic effect of intravenous injection using MSCs and equal amountsof exosomesin aPOI mouse model will reveal the differencebetween the two therapeutic resources. In this study, we induced POI in C57/BL6 mice by chemotherapy (CXT) using a standard protocol. We then injected four different doses of MSCs or equal amountsof commercialized MSC-derived exosomesby retro-orbital injection post-CXT.Result:After MSC/exosome treatment, tissue and serum samples were harvested to analyze molecular changes after treatment,while other mice in parallel experiments underwent breeding experimentsto compare the restoration of fertility. Both the MSC- and exosome-treated groups had a restored estrous cycle and serum hormone levelscompared to untreated POI mice. The pregnancy rate in the MSC-treated group was 60% to 100% after treatment, while thepregnancy rate in the exosome-treated group was 30% to 50% after treatment. Interestingly, in terms oflong-term effects, MSC-treated mice still showed a 60% to 80% pregnancy rate in the second round of breeding, while the exosome-treated group became infertile again inthe second roundof breeding.Conclusions:Although there were some differences in the efficacy between MSC treatment and exosome treatment, both treatments were able to achieve pregnancy in the POI mouse model. In conclusion, we report that MSC-derived exosomes are apromising therapeutic option to restore ovarian function in POI conditions similar to treatment with MSCs.
Challenges and opportunities for conducting pre-hospital trauma trials: a behavioural investigation
Authors: Lawrie Louisa , Duncan Eilidh M. , Lendrum Robert , Lebrec Victoria , Gillies Katie
Published: October 2022

Background: Trials in pre-hospital trauma care are relatively uncommon. There are logistical and methodological challenges related to designing and delivering trials in this setting. Previous studies have assessed challenges reported in individual trials rather than across the pre-hospital trial landscape to identify over-arching factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges and opportunities related to the set-up, design and conduct of pre-hospital trauma trials.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with research personnel who had experience of pre-hospital trials, either through direct involvement in conduct or through strategic oversight of national initiatives (n = 7), and clinical staff (n = 16) involved in recruitment to a pre-hospital trauma feasibility study. Thematic analyses were used to assess the barriers and enablers of conducting pre-hospital trauma trials. Two frameworks (The Capability Opportunity Motivation - Behaviour and the Theoretical Domains Framework) were used to guide analyses.
Results: The barriers and enablers reported were relevant to several TDF domains and COM-B components. Across both cohorts, challenges reported included the lack of research experience amongst pre-hospital staff, team dynamics within a rotating shift schedule (COM-B Physical and Social Opportunities, TDF Environmental Context & Resources and Social Influences), and the involvement of external organisations with diverse institutional priorities and infrastructures (e.g. Air Ambulances). The infrequency of eligible cases was also reported to affect trial design, set-up, and conduct (TDF Environmental Context & Resources). Other barriers reported related to clinical equipoise amongst staff and institutional pressures, which affected motivation (COM-B Reflective Motivation and TDF Beliefs about consequences).
Conclusions: This study has highlighted that pre-hospital trials face many context specific but also generic challenges. Pre-hospital trauma trial teams could consider the findings to develop targeted, behaviourally focused, solutions to the challenges identified in order to enhance the set-up and conduct of trials in this setting.
Trial registration: NCT04145271.
Feasibility of a team-based person-centred intervention for patients at risk of or diagnosed with COPD in general practice – a qualitative inquiry
Authors: Kolltveit Beate-Christin Hope , Graue Marit , Borge Christine Råheim , Frisk Bente
Published: October 2022

Background
Symptoms and complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can affect daily activities and quality of life, and patients with COPD require long-term follow-up by their general practitioner (GP). Providing patients with or at risk of COPD practical skills and motivation to improve their self-management is important. On this background, we designed an interdisciplinary follow-up programme based on the Guided Self-Determination (GSD) counselling method to facilitate problem-solving and mutual decision-making between healthcare professionals and patients. The aim of the study was to explore patients and healthcare professionals` experiences with the GSD-program.
Methods
Thirteen patients with COPD (mean age 71.7±7.7 years) four were current smokers, and seven at risk of COPD (mean age 54.1±9.9 years) all current smokers, received the GSD follow-up program. The intervention consisted of structured consultations with the nurse and patient in collaboration with the GP at baseline and after 3, 6 and 12 months. The GSD comprised facilitation of a mutual reflection process between the patient and the nurse to enhance self-management skills. Each consultation lasted for 60 minutes. We performed individual interviews after the 12-months GSD-program with two patients at risk of COPD, four patients with COPD, three nurses, and five GPs. The interviews were analysed using thematic analyses.
Results
We identified two themes: 1) A structured follow-up is challenging but motivating. 2) A counselling method that opens for conversation, but it requires resources.
At 12-month follow-up, three with COPD and six in the risk group had quit smoking.
Conclusions
People with or at risk of COPD may benefit from the GSD method with a structured team-based follow-up in general practice. Our findings indicated that the GSD method gave the patients better self-management strategies. The regularity of the follow-up seemed to be important to succeed to help the patients making lifestyle changes to improve health benefits. However, the GSD was experienced as time consuming among the GPs and nurses, and there are currently no available financial rates for this type of treatment in Norway which may be a barrier to further implementation.
The trial is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04076384).
Tissue transglutaminase exacerbates renal fibrosis via alternative activation of monocyte-derived macrophages
Authors: Shinoda Yoshiki , Tatsukawa Hideki , Yonaga Atsushi , Wakita Ryosuke , Takeuchi Taishu , Tsuji Tokuji , Tanaka Miyako , Suganami Takayoshi , Hitomi Kiyotaka
Published: October 2022

Macrophages are important components in modulating homeostatic and inflammatory responses and are generally categorized into two broad but distinct subsets: classical activated (M1) and alternatively activated (M2) depending on the microenvironment. Fibrosis is a chronic inflammatory disease exacerbated by M2 macrophages, although the detailed mechanism by which M2 macrophage polarization is regulated remains unclear. These polarization mechanisms have little in common between mice and humans, making it difficult to adapt research results obtained in mice to human diseases. Tissue transglutaminase (TG2) is a known marker common to mouse and human M2 macrophages and is a multifunctional enzyme responsible for crosslinking reactions. Here we sought to identify the role of TG2 in macrophage polarization and fibrosis. In IL-4-treated macrophages derived from mouse bone marrow and human monocyte cells, the expression of TG2 was increased with enhancement of M2 macrophage markers, whereas knockout or inhibitor treatment of TG2 markedly suppressed M2 macrophage polarization. In the renal fibrosis model, accumulation of M2 macrophages in fibrotic kidney was significantly reduced in TG2 knockout or inhibitor-administrated mice, along with the resolution of fibrosis. Bone marrow transplantation using TG2-knockout mice revealed that TG2 is involved in M2 polarization of infiltrating macrophages derived from circulating monocytes and exacerbates renal fibrosis. Furthermore, the suppression of renal fibrosis in TG2-knockout mice was abolished by transplantation of wild-type bone marrow or by renal subcapsular injection of IL4-treated macrophages derived from bone marrow of wild-type, but not TG2 knockout. Transcriptome analysis of downstream targets involved in M2 macrophages polarization revealed that ALOX15 expression was enhanced by TG2 activation and promoted M2 macrophage polarization. Furthermore, the increase in the abundance of ALOX15-expressing macrophages in fibrotic kidney was dramatically suppressed in TG2-knockout mice. These findings demonstrated that TG2 activity exacerbates renal fibrosis by polarization of M2 macrophages from monocytes via ALOX15.
Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte production in longitudinally monitored incident infections is associated with duration of infection and human host factors
Authors: Andolina Chiara , Ramjith Jordache , Rek John , Lanke Kjerstin , Okoth Joseph , Grignard Lynn , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Briggs Jessica , Bailey Jeffrey , Aydemir Ozkan , Kamya Moses R , Greenhouse Bryan , Dorsey Grant , Staedke Sarah G , Drakeley Chris , Jonker Marianne , Bousema Teun
Published: October 2022

Malaria transmission depends on the presence of Plasmodium gametocytes that are the only parasite life stage that can infect mosquitoes. Gametocyte production varies between infections and over the course of infections. Infection duration is highly important for gametocyte production but poorly quantified. Between 2017–2019 an all-age cohort of individuals from Tororo, eastern Uganda was followed by continuous passive and routine assessments. We longitudinally monitored 104 incident infections from 98 individuals. Among infections that lasted ≥ 3 months, gametocyte production was near-universal with 96% of infections producing gametocytes prior to clearance. However, most infections were of much shorter duration; 55.7% of asymptomatic infections were detected only once. When considering all asymptomatic infections, regardless of their duration, only 36.3% initiated gametocyte production prior to clearance. Infections in individuals with sickle-cell trait (HbAS) were more likely to produce gametocytes (Hazard Rate (HR) = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.12, 6.38; p = 0.0231) and produced gametocytes at higher densities (Density Ratio (DR) = 9.19, 95% CI: 2.79–30.23; p = 0.0002) compared to wildtype (HbAA) individuals. Our findings suggest that a large proportion of incident infections is too short in duration and of too low density to contribute to onward transmission.
The mediating effect of coping styles between self-compassion and body image disturbance in young breast cancer survivors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhu Fei , Liu Chunlei , Zhang Wan , Qiang Wanmin , Yin Xiaoping , Lu Qian
Published: October 2022

Background: Young breast cancer survivors with body image disturbance have poor quality of life. Self-compassion and different coping styles can influence their body image. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between self-compassion, coping styles, and body image disturbance, and examined the mediation role of coping styles between self-compassion and body image disturbance among young breast cancer survivors in China.
Methods: In the cross-sectional study, a total of 310 young women with breast cancer were assessed on self-compassion, coping styles, and body image disturbance by self-reported questionnaires in China. Spearman’s correlation was used to test the links between variables and to verify the indirect effects between variables by constructing a structural equation model.
Results: There were correlations between self-compassion, different coping styles, and body image disturbance. Confrontation, avoidance, and acceptance-resignationcoping had significant mediation effects on the association between self-compassion and body image disturbance. The mediation effects of confrontation coping were greater than avoidance, and acceptance-resignation coping.
Conclusions: In this study, different coping styles acted as mediators between self-compassion and body image disturbance, providing support for further understanding the mechanism between self-compassion and body image disturbance, and developing comprehensive interventions for body image disturbance. Oncology nurses should pay attention to the breast cancer survivors’ self-compassion and coping styles and encourage them to adopt adaptive coping strategies, which can reduce body image disturbance.
Ionic liquid dynamics and electrical conductivity under confinement within micro and nanocellulose ionogels
Authors: Kowalczuk Joanna , Bielejewski Michał , Tritt-Goc Jadwiga
Published: October 2022

To investigate the effect of cellulose matrix on the diffusion and conductivity properties of the ionogels formed with the BMIMCl ionic liquid (IL), two types of samples were made with micro (CMC) and nano (CNC) cellulose. The cellulose interactions with IL were studied by 1H and 13C NMR solid-state spectroscopy. The cation [BMIM] + self-diffusion coefficient was calculated based on Fast Field Cycling 1H NMR relaxation measurements. The ionic conductivity was measured by the thermal scanning conductometry method. The NMR spectra at room temperature revealed that cation in the CNC-based ionogel interacts more strongly with the cellulose chain than in the CMC-based ionogel through the methyl group at the end of the alkyl chain. Despite this, the cellulose matrix's influence on the cations' dynamics and electrical conductivity are comparable in both ionogels. The diffusion coefficient is reduced by about two times and the conductivity by about 30% compared with bulk IL.
An operationally broadened alkaline water electrolyser enabled by highly stable poly(oxindole biphenylene) ion-solvating membranes
Authors: Hu Xu , Hu Bin , Liu Min , Tao Huabing , Huang Yingda , Kang Shuanyan , Geng Kang , Li Nanwen
Published: October 2022

Advanced water electrolysers represent a new direction in the field of low-cost green hydrogen production. However, the high cost of precious metal-catalysts in proton-exchange-membranes electrolysers, the high gas permeation of porous diaphragms and the alkaline instability at elevated temperatures (< 60°C) of anion-exchange-membranes in alkaline electrolysers remarkably limit their operational flexibility. Here, we demonstrate a different class of alkaline-water-electrolyser based on highly-stable oxindole/KOH complex ion pairs in poly(oxindole biphenylene) ion-solvating-membranes that can bridge the gap in existing water electrolysis technologies by enabling the use of non-precious metal-catalysts (Ni, Ni/Fe) and broadening operation temperature range (-35 ~ 120°C), in combination with ultralow gas permeation and thus low-transient-response times (< 1 s). These ISMs exhibit inspiring alkaline stability at 80°C with a negligible conductivity decay of more than 15000 h and thus allow durable alkaline electrolysis over 2500 h even at elevated temperatures and high operating voltages of 2.3 V.
Effect of Stochastic Model Error on the Convergence and Accuracy of Markov Chains
Authors: Yao Mandy , Estep Donald
Published: October 2022

We derive conditions that guarantee the stability of Markov Chains in the presence of stochastic model error. To do this, we adapt existing theory on the convergence of perturbed stable Markov Chains under “round off” errors associated with finite precision on computers. We apply the results to Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms used to construct a stochastic process whose limiting distribution is the unknown distribution of interest in a given problem. In practice, errors in the computer simulations affect convergence of MCMC computations, which we analyze in this paper. We also model the error of perturbed MCMC samples using a time series approach.
MSC Classification: 60J05, 62F99, 62M05
AZU1 (HBP/CAP37) and PRKCG (PKC-gamma) may be candidate genes affecting the severity of Acute Mountain Sickness.
Authors: Xu Zhichao , Li Qiong , Shen Xiaobing
Published: October 2022

Background
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the diseases that predispose to sudden ascent to high altitudes above 2500 meters. Among the many studies on the occurrence and development of AMS, there are few studies on the severity of AMS. Some unidentified phenotypes or genes that determine the severity of AMS may be vital to elucidating the mechanisms of AMS. This study aimed to explore essential candidate genes and phenotypes for moderate-to-severe AMS to provide evidence for a better understanding of the mechanisms of AMS.
Methods
Nineteen subjects from GSE103927 dataset (Downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database) were classified as having moderate to severe AMS (MS-AMS) and mild or no AMS (NM-AMS) based on the Lake Louise score (LLS). Various bioinformatics analyses, such as weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), differentially expressed genes screening, and ROC curves were used to compare the differences between the two groups. Another dataset in the GEO database and Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to validate the analysis results.
Result
No statistically significant differences in phenotypic and clinical data existed between the MS-AMS and NM-AMS groups. WGCNA revealed 530 genes associated with LLS. Three hundred sixty-eight differentially expressed genes between the two groups. Eight differential genes are associated with LLS, and their biological functions are related regulating of the apoptotic process and programmed cell death. The ROC curves showed that FAM86B3P, AZU1, and PRKCG had a better predictive performance for MS-AMS. The transcript levels of AZU1 and PRKCG were significantly higher in the MS-AMS group compared to the NM-AMS group, a result validated by another dataset. RT-qPCR showed that the transcript levels of AZU1 and PRKCG were elevated in BEAS-2B cells after hypobaric hypoxia treatment. AZU1 and PRKCG were enriched in the Neutrophil extracellular trap formation pathway, suggesting the importance of this pathway in influencing the severity of AMS.
Conclusion
AZU1 and PRKCG were finally identified as the candidate genes affecting AMS severity. AZU1 and PRKCG may affect the severity of AMS by influencing lung endothelial cell permeability through the Neutrophil extracellular trap formation pathway. Our study provides a new perspective to explore the molecular mechanism of AMS, and inhibiting or targeting these genes may help high altitude acclimation and reduce the occurrence of AMS or moderate to severe AMS.
Body height estimation from automated length measurements on standing long leg radiographs using artificial intelligence
Authors: Simon Sebastian , Fischer Barbara , Rinner Alexandra , Hummer Allan , Frank Bernhard JH. , Mitterer Jennyfer A. , Huber Stephanie , Aichmair Alexander , Schwarz Gilbert M. , Hofstaetter Jochen G.
Published: October 2022

Artificial-intelligence (AI) allows large scale analyses of long-leg-radiographs (LLRs). We use this technology to derive an update for the classical regression formulae by Trotter and Gleser and Bass, which are frequently used to infer stature based on long-bone measurements. We analyzed calibrated, standing LLRs from 4,200 participants taken between 2015 and 2020. Automated landmark placement was conducted using the AI-algorithm LAMA™ and the measurements were used to determine femoral, tibial and total leg-length. Linear regression equations were subsequently derived for stature estimation. The estimated regression equations have a shallower slope and larger intercept in males and females (Femur-male: slope = 2.08, intercept = 77.49; Femur-female: slope = 1.9, intercept = 79.81) compared to the formulas previously derived by Trotter and Gleser (Femur-male: slope = 2.38, intercept = 61.41) and Bass (Femur-male: slope = 2.32, intercept = 65.53; Femur-female: slope = 2.47, intercept = 54.13). All long-bone measurements showed a high correlation (r ≥ 0.76) with stature. The linear equations we derived tended to overestimate stature in short persons and underestimate stature in tall persons. In this study, an updated regression formulae for stature estimation was established. The differences in slopes and intercepts may result from an ongoing secular increase in stature. Our study illustrates that AI-algorithms are a promising new tool enabling large scale measurements.