bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unravelling the predictors of vaccine defaults in Southern Ghana: Evidence from the Malaria RTSS vaccine implementation trial program in the Cape Coast Metropolis
Authors: Bediako Vincent Bio , Ackah Josephine Akua , Yankey Theophilus Junior , Okyere Joshua , Acheampong Emmanuella , Owusu Bernard Afriyie , Agbemavi Wonder , Nwameme Adanna Uloaku , Kamau Edward Mberu , Asampong Emmanuel 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Malaria has been a severe global and public health concern for the last couple of decades. Ghana, like many other countries in sub–Saharan Africa, is most affected by the disease, with children facing dire consequences. The recent introduction of the RTS, S malaria vaccine holds great potential in reducing malaria fatalities in children. However, RTS and S implementation have inherent challenges that raise the stakes of vaccine defaults in piloted areas in Ghana. In this study, we examine the predictors of RTS,S vaccine defaults using a cross-sectional research design that covers a sample of 765 caregivers in Southern Ghana. Classification models (Binary logistic regression and Random Forest) were performed to identify critical socio-demographic, health and RTS, S related predictors. The findings show that more than a third (38.43%) of children defaulted at least one dose of the malaria vaccine. Key predictors of defaults included sub-metro of residence, cost of traveling to health facilities, experience of adverse events, knowledge about the vaccine doses, caregiver’s employment status, and religion. Our findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to reduce defaults, mainly focusing on caregiver education on vaccines, reducing financial barriers to healthcare access, and addressing concerns about adverse events.
Constructing a structural equation model of fertility anxiety, medical coping, and risk perception in cancer survivors
Authors: Wu Xiaoqin , Ou Yan , Peng Yejuan , Xiong Yuying , Tong Mei , Zhou Yanhui , Xun Rende 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the associations between fertility anxiety, medical coping, and risk perception in cancer survivors. We assessed 516 cancer survivors using fertility anxiety, medical coping, and risk perception scales. The score obtained for fertility anxiety was (63.227 ± 12.664); the score for the coping dimension was (21.114 ± 6.478); the score for the avoidance dimension was (16.680 ± 6.800); and the score for the submission dimension was (13.159 ± 4.674). The mean risk perception score was 39.949 ± 11.869. The structural equation model showed that risk perception had a negative role in facing (P < 0.001), and a positive role in avoidance, submission, and fertility concerns (P < 0.001). Avoidance and submission had positive effects on fertility concerns (P < 0.05), while facing had negative effects on fertility concerns (P < 0.05). Medical coping was a mediating variable between risk perception and fertility concerns. Fertility anxiety and risk perception were at a medium level among the cancer survivors assessed, with the participants more inclined to adopt a confrontational coping style. Medical coping can modulate the interaction between risk perception and fertility concerns.
Continuous removal of thorium from aqueous solution using functionalized graphene oxide: study of adsorption kinetics in batch system and fixed bed column
Authors: Zahakifar Fazel , Khanramaki Fereshte 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

In this article, the kinetic studies of thorium adsorption from an aqueous solution with graphene oxide functionalized with aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) as an adsorbent were investigated. Experiments were performed in two batch and continuous modes. The results showed that thorium adsorption follows a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and that the adsorption reaction is endothermic. In continuous conditions, the effect of feed flow rate, initial concentration, and column bed height was investigated. The continuous data was analyzed using Thomas, Yoon-Nelson, and Bohart-Adams models. The experimental data of the column were well matched with the Thomas, Yoon-Nelson model. The research results showed that the use of functionalized graphene oxide adsorbents has a great ability to remove thorium from aqueous solutions.
Engineering the catalyst interface enables high carbon efficiency in both cation-exchange and bipolar membrane electrolyzers
Authors: Voiry Damien , WU Huali , Karamok Bonito Aristide , Wang Wenseng , Liu Jiefeng , Petit Eddy , Li Suming , Salameh Chrystelle 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The formation of (bi)carbonate in alkaline and neutral membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) electrolyzers poses an unsatisfactorily low upper-bound of CO2 single-pass utilization rate (SPU) and single-pass conversion rate (SPC) in CO2 electrolyzers. Electrolyzing CO2 in acidic MEA has been regarded as an effective strategy to prevent carbonate formation and CO2 loss but poses challenges due to the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction. Here we report the preparation of a hydrogel buffering layer on an Ag-coated gas diffusion electrode (GDE) to prevent the (bi)carbonate formation and break the theoretical limitation of 50% SPU in neutral-media electrolyzers. Through precise control of the porosity within the buffering layer, while maintaining superaerophobicity, we found that the hydrogel enhances the mass transfer of regenerated CO2 at the interface between the buffering layer and the cation-exchange layer. We demonstrate a high energy efficiency of 37% and high SPU of 77% at a total current density of 375 mA cm− 2 when performing acidic electrolysis using an optimal Ag/buffer GDE within a Nafion-based MEA cell.
Synaptic plasticity-based regularizer for artificial neural networks
Authors: Yousef Qais , Li Pu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Regularization is an important tool for the generalization of ANN models. Due to the lack of constraints, it cannot guarantee that the model will work in a real environment with continuous changes in the distribution. Inspired by neuroplasticity, this paper proposes a bounded regularization method that can be safely activated during the deployment phase. First, we improve the reliability of the outputs of selected neurons by extending our recently proposed neuronal masking. Subsequently, we regularize the model by introducing a synaptic connection module to determine the connection of the masks to their previous layer based on the coming input data. To find the optimal connection, we define a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem to minimize the loss of prospect uncertainty and solve it using our proposed “single wave” method. Finally, we propose a storage/recovery memory module to memorize these connections along with the corresponding uncertainty level. Experimental results from classification and regression tasks show that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art in the sense of accuracy.
Whether medicine supply is really meeting primary health care needs—a mixed-methods study in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Fan ZhinXin , Gao TianTian , Sun Qiang , Babar Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
With the ageing population, the increasing prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases, and the diversified needs for primary health care (PHC) medicines, it is necessary to rethink the functional role of the supply of PHC medicines. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the supply of PHC medicines and the status of meeting PHC medicine needs.
Methods
We did a mixed-methods study to evaluate the supply of PHC medicines in Shandong Province. In the qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the pharmacy managers, physicians, and patients in county hospitals, township hospitals, and village clinics; in the quantitative study, survey questionnaires were distributed to county hospitals, township hospitals, and patients, and a prescription review was performed in township hospitals. A senior pharmacist from a tertiary hospital accompanied us on a visit to inspect the PHC pharmacies. These quantitative assessments were triangulated with qualitative pharmacy managers, physicians, and patients and discussions.
Results
The supply of PHC medicines based on the existing medicines list was relatively good, and shortages occurred sporadically and locally, resulting a minor impact on clinical medication. 211 county hospitals and 1,581 township hospitals participated in the survey, revealing an average annual frequency of medicine shortages of 8.6 times for county hospitals and 5.7 times for township hospitals. Nonetheless, off-list medicines were in short supply, failing to meet patients’ need as determined by health outcome. Of the 6,323 patient medication surveys, 945 (14.9%) indicated medicine shortages, with half of these attributable to organizations lacking required medicines. On average, the prescription qualified rate of 37 township hospitals was 72.2%. The study revealed the need to optimize the list of PHC medicines and strengthen the capacity of healthcare services.
Conclusions
The discrepancy between patients’ need for PHC medicine and present medicine supply is noteworthy. The supply of PHC medicines should shift its focus from providing medicines based solely on an existing list to prioritizing health outcomes to adequately meet patient medicine needs. Integrated health care may be a novel strategy to establish unified medicines lists and achieve uniform pharmaceutical services in PHC.
Multi-Scalar Data Integration Decoding Risk Genes for Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Ding Shiqi , Guo Jing , Chen Huimei , Petretto Enrico 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) impacts over 10% of the global population and recently advancements in high-throughput analytical technologies are uncovering the complex physiology underlying this condition. Through the integration of Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) summary statistics, our study aimed to explore the genes and cell types relevant to CKD traits.
Methods: The GWAS Catalog and the UK Biobank (UKB) database provided GWAS summary data for the end stage of renal failure (ESRD) and decreased eGFR (CKD) with or without diabetes and (micro)proteinuria. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) transcriptome datasets were utilized to establish glomerular and tubular gene expression between CKD patients and healthy individuals. The expression of key genes at the single-cell level were obtained from the ScRNA-seq dataset available on Zenodo. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs), crosstalk co-expression networks, and enrichment analysis were further conducted for these CKD risk genes.
Results: A total of 779 distinct SNPs were identified from GWAS across different traits of CKDs, which were involved in 681 genes. Majority of these risk genes are identical referring in certain CKD trait, but share the common pathways, including extracellular matrix (ECM), circadian entrainment, and energy metabolism. The ECM modelling was also enriched in upregulated glomerular and tubular DEGs from CKD kidneys compared to healthy controls and the expression of relevant collagen genes, COL8A1, COL6A3, and COL1A2, are prevalent in fibroblasts/myofibroblasts. Meanwhile, physiological functions of kidney, including circadian entrainment, were downregulated in CKD kidneys. LUC7L3 was downregulated in CKD and enriched in podocytes. We also highlighted the regulated risk genes of CKD mainly expressed in tubular cells and immune cells in the kidney.
Conclusions: Our integrated analysis highlight the genes, pathways, and relevant cell types associational with the pathogenesis of kidney traits, as a basis for further mechanistic studies to understand the pathogenesis of CKD.
Integrating CBCL with Seminar Teaching Method in Normal Human Anatomy Education for Nursing Students
Authors: WU Xueping , Lv Yehui , Yang Ling , YANG Zhifang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to explore the effectiveness of integrating CBCL (Case Based Collaborative Learning) and seminar teaching approach into general human anatomy courses, with the aim of providing students with an educational experience that reflects clinical practice.
Method:
Utilizing a prospective cohort study design, 61 nursing students from the 2021 cohort were assigned as the control group, while 60 nursing students from the 2022 cohort comprised the experimental group. The control group received traditional teaching methods, whereas the experimental group was taught using CBCL in conjunction with Seminar teaching mode. The effectiveness of the two teaching approaches was evaluated by comparing differences in examination scores, teaching satisfaction, teamwork skills, critical thinking abilities, and other aspects between the two groups of students.
Results:
The experimental group demonstrated significantly higher overall scores compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The questionnaire survey revealed that the experimental group expressed higher satisfaction with the teaching methods, problem-solving abilities, learning capabilities, and team collaboration enhancement than the control group, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between the two groups in the scores from two Chinese versions of the Critical Thinking Ability Scale (P > 0.05). Following the course, the experimental group exhibited higher CTDI-CV scores in seeking truth, open thinking, analytical skills, systematic thinking, self-confidence, thirst for knowledge, and cognitive maturity compared to the control group, with statistically significant differences (all P < 0.01).
Conclusion:
The integration of CBCL teaching method and Seminar represents an innovative teaching model within the normal human anatomy teaching process. This model blends the practicality of CBCL with the interactivity of Seminar, leading to improved student overall grades, teaching satisfaction, and critical thinking abilities.
Prevalence and effects of Vitamin D receptor polymorphism on bone mineral density and metabolism in patients with systemic sclerosis: a preliminary study
Authors: Schulz Nils , Dischereit Gabriel , Henke Laura , Lange Uwe , Klemm Philipp 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) have a disproportionately high prevalence of reduced bone mineral density (BMD). Polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene have been associated with osteoporosis in patients with autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and possible effects of VDR polymorphism on BMD and bone metabolism in patients with SSc. Methods: In patients with SSc measurement of BMD was performed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. VDR polymorphisms (FokI, BsmI) were genotyped using restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Markers of bone metabolism (calcium, osteocalcin, β-crosslaps) were determined. Primary endpoint was the prevalence of VDR gene polymorphisms and the association with reduced BMD. Secondary endpoints included associations between bone metabolism and VDR gene polymorphism. Results: 79 caucasian patients with SSc were included. Overall, 83.5% had reduced BMD (51.9% osteopenia, 31.6% osteoporosis). The prevalence of VDR gene polymorphism (73% Bsml, 77% Fokl) was comparable to studies in healthy and rheumatic populations. The homozygous presence of FokI polymorphism, but not BsmI, was significantly associated with reduced axial BMD. Fokl polymorphism was significantly associated with reduced CTX levels, although changes remained within the reference limits. Conclusion: VDR polymorphisms can frequently be found in patients with SSc in comparable prevalence to healthy and rheumatic populations. The homozygous presence of FokI polymorphism, but not BsmI, was significantly associated with reduced axial BMD. This could be a possible contributor for the high prevalence of reduced BMD in 83.5% of patients with SSc in this study. Trial registration number: DRKS00032768, date: 05.10.2023, retrospectively registered
Genetic Association Analysis Between Depression and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease- Related Phenotypes
Authors: Xu Ting-Ting , Geng Lin , Zhang Xiu-lian , Chang Cen , Zhu Sheng-Liang , Wang Yi , Fang Sheng-Quan , Li Li 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Objective
A plethora of studies have illuminated the significant association between depression and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), especially refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD), yet the causal interplay and directionality of this relationship remain largely unexplored. This study aims to shed light on the bidirectional causative connections and the potential genetic mechanisms underlying the relationship between depression and GERD, as well as its subtypes.
Methods
Utilizing comprehensive summary data from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) pertaining to depression, GERD, Reflux Esophagitis (RE), and Non-Erosive Reflux Disease (NERD), this study implemented Mendelian Randomization to discern the independent causal relationships between depression and these gastroesophageal disorders. We employed an integrative approach, amalgamating data from GWAS, Expression Quantitative Trait Loci (eQTL), and other multi-omics analyses. Techniques such as SMR and FUMA were applied to identify potential pathogenic genes implicated in depression and the subtypes of GERD. Enrichment analyses were conducted to elucidate the potential biological pathways through which depression modulates GERD and its variants.
Results
The study revealed that depression significantly increases the risk of developing GERD and NERD, but not RE. No causal link was identified between GERD, RE, NERD, and depression. In-depth analysis through SMR and FUMA pinpointed GMPPB as a potential susceptibility gene for depression, manifesting across the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral blood. For GERD, the identified susceptibility genes present in the gastroesophageal junction, esophageal mucosal and muscular layers, and peripheral blood included RP4-717I23.3, RAB7L1, BROX, TAF1B, RP11-95D17.1. For NERD, potential susceptibility genes localized in similar tissues comprised GBP3, METTL18, SERPINC1, ZNF496, AC016683.6, PAX8GLS, LARS2, NCKIPSD, QRICH1, AMT. The genetic loci linked to both depression and GERD predominantly cluster in areas such as the T cell receptor signaling pathway, DNA binding transcription factor activity, sequence-specific DNA binding, Rickman tumor differentiated well vs moderately DN, etc. Genetic loci associated with depression and NERD are mainly concentrated in areas of Nucleosome organization, Protein and complex subunit organization, and, similarly, the T cell receptor signaling, etc.
Conclusion
The findings of this study indicate that depression contributes to an increased incidence of GERD and NERD. The potential mechanisms underpinning this association might involve the brain-gut axis, encompassing neuroimmune pathways, DNA and RNA transcriptional regulation, and protein metabolism processes.
Rethinking CF organization of care in the era of highly effective modulator: a nationwide research program HORIZON
Authors: Haesaebert Julie , Reynaud Quitterie , Durieu Isabelle , Poupon-Bourdy Stephanie , Nouvel Thierry , Reix Philippe 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Highly effective modulator therapy (HEMT) is now available to a wider range of people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF). It has significantly improved short-term clinical outcomes and has the potential to alter the natural history of this fatal genetic disease. If long-term follow-up observational data is required to ensure clinical benefits, it is obvious that it will also change the needs of pwCF and the roles and missions of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in CF centers and beyond. We will conduct a nationwide research program called 'HORIZON' to support the necessary changes in the organization of CF care in the coming years. Our primary objective is to design a new model of CF care organization that can respond to the new needs and missions of pwCF and HCPs in this era of rapid and profound changes due to HEMT. This research program is based on the intervention mapping method, in which we will conduct the first four steps to design and plan the implementation of a new organization of care. The program will involve all stakeholders of the CF care network, including HCPs from CF care centers and outside, pwCF and their families, patient organizations, and experts from other countries. It will combine quantitative and qualitative research approaches and rely on an 'action research' method. Anticipating and supporting the reorganization of CF care in France requires a robust research program to find the best model that meets the expectations of all key stakeholders.
Pre-pregnancy intrauterine device use is associated with a reduced risk of subsequent preterm birth: a large population-based cohort study
Authors: Chen Xing , Wang Tao , Zhang Yan , Xie Zhengyuan , Kong Cai , Wu Binxue , Lan Yuzhi , Zhao Zigao , Song Xiangjing , Ye Hanfeng , Che Yan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
The effect of pre-pregnancy intrauterine device (IUD) use on subsequent preterm birth (PTB) remains unclear. To investigate the association between IUD use before pregnancy and subsequent PTB.
Methods
A total of 242,009 women who participated in the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP) in Yunnan from 2013 to 2019 were included in the study. All study participants were classified into three groups according to their use of pre-pregnancy contraceptive methods: non-method users, IUD users, and other method users. We used multivariable Poisson regression model to investigate the association between the use of an IUD before pregnancy and subsequent PTB. Further models analyzed the multiplicative and additive interactions between pre-pregnancy IUD use and county deprivation.
Results
Of all the participants, 45,772 (18.9%) used IUDs before pregnancy, 39,627 (16.4%) used other contraceptive methods, and 156,506 (64.7%) were non-method users. The overall PTB rate was 4.8% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 4.7–4.9%), and women in the IUD group had a significantly lower PTB rate (4.3%, 95% CI 4.1–4.5%) than women in the non-method users (4.9%, 95% CI 4.8–5.1%) and other method groups (4.7%, 95% CI 4.5–4.9%). IUD use before pregnancy was associated with a reduced risk of subsequent PTB (model 1: adjusted relative risk [aRR] 0.84, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.88; model 2: aRR 0.84, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.90). In counties with a normal level of development, IUD users had a 30% lower risk of subsequent PTB than non-users (aRR 0.70, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.77). Compared with non-IUD users from the least developed counties, those from counties with a normal level of socioeconomic development had the lowest risk of subsequent PTB (aRR 0.72, 0.62 to 0.83). The additive interaction between pre-pregnancy IUD use and low level of county development was statistically significant (relative excess risk due to interaction [RERI] -0.27, -0.40 to -0.13).
Conclusion
Pre-pregnancy IUD use is associated with a reduced risk of subsequent PTB. Pre-pregnancy IUD users in counties with a normal level of development were associated with a lower risk of subsequent PTB than their counterparts in the least developed countries.