bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Poverty Proofing health care: a qualitative study of barriers to accessing health care for low income families with children in Northern England
Authors: Bidmead Elaine , Hayes Louise , Leggott Emma , Wildman Josephine , Rankin Judith , Bramhall Luke , Todd Liz , Mazzoli-Smith Laura 
Published: October 2023

AbstractPoverty impacts negatively on children’s health and future life chances. Access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is based on clinical need rather than the ability to pay but horizontal inequities in access exist. Children North East, a charity supporting children experiencing poverty, wanted to develop a Poverty Proofing© Health tool to help NHS services reduce the impacts of poverty on access. This study aimed to understand barriers to healthcare access faced by families living on low incomes to support development of the tool. Twenty parents and seven Voluntary Community Social Enterprise sector staff participated in qualitative interviews or focus groups. Data were analysed thematically, and three main themes were identified as impacting access to health care: hidden costs, securing appointments and developing relationships with health care providers. We conclude that low-income families experience both financial and other barriers to accessing NHS health care and that these barriers are exacerbated for low income families living in rural areas.
Intrinsic forebrain arousal dynamics governs sensory stimulus encoding
Authors: Yang Yifan , Leopold David A. , Duyn Jeff H. , Sipe Grayson O. , Liu Xiao 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe neural encoding of sensory stimuli is subject to the brain’s internal circuit dynamics. Recent work has demonstrated that the resting brain exhibits widespread, coordinated activity that plays out over multisecond timescales in the form of quasi-periodic spiking cascades. Here we demonstrate that these intrinsic dynamics persist during the presentation of visual stimuli and markedly influence the efficacy of feature encoding in the visual cortex. During periods of passive viewing, the sensory encoding of visual stimuli was determined by quasi-periodic cascade cycle evolving over several seconds. During this cycle, high efficiency encoding occurred during peak arousal states, alternating in time with hippocampal ripples, which were most frequent in low arousal states. However, during bouts of active locomotion, these arousal dynamics were abolished: the brain remained in a state in which visual coding efficiency remained high and ripples were absent. We hypothesize that the brain’s observed dynamics during awake, passive viewing reflect an adaptive cycle of alternating exteroceptive sensory sampling and internal mnemonic function.
Differential processing of delay versus uncertainty in male but not female 16p11.2 hemideletion mice
Authors: Rojas Gerardo R. , Heller Abigail T. , Grissom Nicola M. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractNeurodevelopmental disorders are associated with differences in learning and motivation that can influence executive function, including behavioral flexibility and decision making. 16p11.2 hemideletion is a chromosomal copy number variant that is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders. 16p11.2 hemideletion in mice has been previously found to produce male-biased changes in reward learning, but the link between this and altered flexible decision making is poorly understood. We challenged 16p11.2 hemideletion mice with two reward-guided decision making tasks assessing flexible decision making under cost, delay and probability discounting. Both tasks elicited long-term changes in flexible decision making that separated 16p11.2 hemideletion males from wildtype males. In delay discounting,16p11.2 hemideletion males had a stronger, less flexible preference for the large reward at long delays, and this effect was reduced as wildtype males adjusted their preference to match that of the hemideletion males. In probability discounting, 16p11.2 hemideletion males initially had a similar preference for seeking improbable large rewards as did wildtype males, but over time began to prefer certainty to a greater extent than did wildtype males. Female mice discounted similarly for delayed or risky rewards regardless of the presence of the copy number variant. We have previously seen that male 16p11.2 hemideletion mice commit fewer nonreinforced responses than male wildtype mice in an operant setting, which we replicate here in delay discounting, while the introduction of risky rewards eliminates genotype differences in nonreinforced responses. Overall these data suggest that 16p11.2 hemideletion in males leads to differential processing of costs of delay versus inconsistency, with greater aversion to uncertainty than delays, and greater behavioral control by cues that consistently predict an outcome.
EFFECT OF PROPHYLACTICALLY ADMINISTERED KETOROLAC AND DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM ON THE EFFICACY OF INFERIOR ALVEOLAR NERVE BLOCK IN PATIENTS WITH SYMPTOMATIC IRREVERSIBLE PULPITIS, DOUBLE-BLIND RANDOMIZED CONTROL TRIAL
Authors: Bano Sara , Ishaq Waleed , Islam Sadaf , Hamdani Sara , Ashfaq Sana , Moghal Amna 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundInferior alveolar nerve block is the most frequently used local anesthetic agent, administered to achieve regional anesthesia for root canal treatment, however, in cases of irreversible pulpitis, there may be anesthetic resistance. To overcome this issue, many conservative and invasive supplementary procedures are introduced to increase the efficacy of nerve block, including prophylactic use of orally administered NSAIDs.ObjectiveTo compare the effect of prophylactically administered Ketorolac and Diclofenac Potassium on the efficacy of inferior alveolar nerve block in patients presenting with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.MethodologyThis double-blind study included a total number of 130 patients with a diagnosis of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis which was confirmed with a cold test. Before initiating the treatment, the patients were asked to rate their pain on a VAS with pain divided into four categories, no pain, mild pain, moderate pain, and severe pain. 10 mg Ketorolac and 50 mg Diclofenac potassium were equally divided into two groups and 1 tablet of each was orally administered to patients 1 hour before initiating root canal treatment. IANB was given and a root canal procedure was initiated under full aseptic protocol. The pain score was recorded on VAS during endodontic access preparation and root canal instrumentation. Data was analyzed through cross-tabulation and the Chi-square test was applied. (Pvalue = 0.05)ResultsThe comparison of prophylactically administered ketorolac and diclofenac potassium on the efficacy of inferior alveolar nerve block depicted the success rate was 64.6% in Ketorolac group as compared to 43.1% in Diclofenac potassium group.ConclusionOral premedication with NSAIDs can improve the efficacy of Inferior alveolar nerve block in a non-invasive manner with better results yielded with the use of orally administered Ketorolac as compared to Diclofenac Potassium.
Aperiodic component of EEG power spectrum and cognitive performance in aging: the role of education
Authors: Montemurro Sonia , Borek Daniel , Marinazzo Daniele , Zago Sara , Masina Fabio , Napoli Ettore , Filippini Nicola , Arcara Giorgio 
Published: October 2023

AbstractAging is associated with changes in the oscillatory -periodic-brain activity in the alpha band (8-12 Hz), as measured with resting-state EEG (rsEEG); it is characterized by a significantly lower alpha frequency and power. Aging influences the aperiodic component of the power spectrum: at a higher age the slope flattens, which is related with lower cognitive efficiency. It is not known whether education, a cognitive reserve proxy recognized for its modulatory role on cognition, influences such relationship.N=179 healthy participants of the LEMON dataset (Babayan et al., 2019) were grouped based on age and education: young adults with high education and older adults with high and low education. Eyes-closed rsEEG power spectrum was parametrized at the occipital level.Lower IAPF, exponent, and offset in older adults were shown, compared to younger adults. Visual attention and working memory were differently predicted by the aperiodic component across education: in older adults with high education, higher exponent predicted slower processing speed and less working memory capacity, with an opposite trend in those with lower education.Further investigation is needed; the study shows the potential modulatory role of education in the relationship between the aperiodic component of the EEG power spectrum and aging cognition.
In vivo AGO-APP identifies a module of microRNAs cooperatively controlling exit from neural stem cell state
Authors: Narbonne-Reveau Karine , Erni Andrea , Eichner Norbert , Surbhi Surbhi , Meister Gunter , Beclin Christophe , Maurange Cédric , Cremer Harold 
Published: October 2023

AbstractMicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential regulators of all developmental processes. Their function is particularly important during neurogenesis, when the production of large numbers of neurons from a limited number of neural stem cells depends on the precise control of determination, proliferation and differentiation. However, miRNA regulation of target mRNAs is highly promiscuous, one miRNA can target many mRNAs and vice versa, raising the question of how specificity is achieved to elicit a precise regulatory response.Here we introduce AGO-APP, a novel approach to purify Argonaute-bound miRNAs directly from cells and tissues in vivo, to isolate actively inhibiting miRNAs from different neural cell populations in the larval Drosophila central nervous system. We identify a defined group of miRNAs that redundantly target all iconic genes known to control the transition from neuroblasts to neurons. In vivo functional studies demonstrate that knockdown of individual miRNAs does not induce detectable cellular phenotypes. However, simultaneous knockdown of multiple miRNAs leads to precocious stem cell differentiation, demonstrating functional interdependence. Thus, miRNAs cooperate within a regulatory module to specify the targeted gene network.
GradHC: Highly Reliable Gradual Hash-based Clustering for DNA Storage Systems
Authors: Shabat Dvir Ben , Hadad Adar , Boruchovsky Avital , Yaakobi Eitan 
Published: October 2023

AbstractAs data storage challenges grow and existing technologies approach their limits, synthetic DNA emerges as a promising storage solution due to its remarkable density and durability advantages. While cost remains a concern, emerging sequencing and synthetic technologies aim to mitigate it, yet introduce challenges such as errors in the storage and retrieval process. One crucial in a DNA storage system is clustering numerous DNA reads into groups that represent the original input strands. In this paper, we review different methods for evaluating clustering algorithms and introduce a novel clustering algorithm for DNA storage systems, named Gradual Hash-based clustering (GradHC). The primary strength of GradHC lies in its capability to cluster with excellent accuracy various types of designs, including varying strand lengths, cluster sizes (including extremely small clusters), and different error ranges. Benchmark analysis demonstrates that GradHC is significantly more stable and robust than other clustering algorithms previously proposed for DNA storage, while also producing highly reliable clustering results.
Morpho-electric and computational properties of three types of human hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons
Authors: Mertens Eline J. , Leibner Yoni , Pie Jean , Galakhova Anna A. , Waleboer Femke , Meijer Julia , Heistek Tim S. , Wilbers René , Heyer Djai , Goriounova Natalia A. , Idema Sander , Verhoog Matthijs B. , Kalmbach Brian E. , Lee Brian R. , Gwinn Ryder P. , Lein Ed S. , Aronica Eleonora , Ting Jonathan , Mansvelder Huibert D. , Segev Idan , de Kock Christiaan P.J. 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTHippocampal pyramidal neuron activity underlies episodic memory and spatial navigation. Although extensively studied in rodents, extremely little is known about human hippocampal pyramidal neurons, even though human hippocampus underwent strong evolutionary reorganization and shows lower theta rhythm frequencies. To test whether biophysical and computational properties of humanCA1pyramidal neurons can explain observed rhythms, we map the morpho-electric and computational properties of individualCA1pyramidal neurons in human, non-pathological hippocampal slices from neurosurgery. HumanCA1pyramidal neurons have extensive dendrites and resonate at 2.9 Hz, optimally tuned to human theta frequencies. Morphological and biophysical properties reveal three cell types with distinct dendrite bifurcations and physiology. Data-driven biophysical models show that humanCA1pyramidal neurons use i) computationally independent dendritic compartments, ii) preferential routing of electrical activity towards soma or dendritic tree and iii) non-linear input-output transformations. Across cell types, morpho-electric properties consistently increase computational richness in humanCA1pyramidal neurons.TeaserHumanCA1pyramidal neurons have large and intricate morphologies, which translates to complex computational properties.
Redox Regulation of Brain Selective Kinases BRSK1/2: Implications for Dynamic Control of the Eukaryotic AMPK family through Cys-based mechanisms
Authors: Bendzunas George N. , Byrne Dominic P , Shrestha Safal , Daly Leonard A , Oswald Sally O. , Katiyar Samiksha , Venkat Aarya , Yeung Wayland , Eyers Claire E , Eyers Patrick A , Kannan Natarajan 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn eukaryotes, protein kinase signaling is regulated by a diverse array of post-translational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation of Ser/Thr residues and oxidation of cysteine (Cys) residues. While regulation by activation segment phosphorylation of Ser/Thr residues is well understood, relatively little is known about how oxidation of cysteine residues modulate catalysis. In this study, we investigate redox regulation of the AMPK-related Brain-selective kinases (BRSK) 1 and 2, and detail how broad catalytic activity is directly regulated through reversible oxidation and reduction of evolutionarily conserved Cys residues within the catalytic domain. We show that redox-dependent control of BRSKs is a dynamic and multilayered process involving oxidative modifications of several Cys residues, including the formation of intra-molecular disulfide bonds involving a pair of Cys residues near the catalytic HRD motif and a highly conserved T-Loop Cys with a BRSK-specific Cys within an unusual CPE motif at the end of the activation segment. Consistently, mutation of the CPE-Cys increases catalytic activityin vitroand drives phosphorylation of the BRSK substrate Tau in cells. Molecular modeling and molecular dynamics simulations indicate that oxidation of the CPE-Cys destabilizes a conserved salt bridge network critical for allosteric activation. The occurrence of spatially proximal Cys amino acids in diverse Ser/Thr protein kinase families suggests that disulfide mediated control of catalytic activity may be a prevalent mechanism for regulation within the broader AMPK family.
Re-evaluation and revision of the Eating Habits Questionnaire
Authors: Simon Dávid , Bogár Nikolett , Dukay-Szabó Szilvia , Túry Ferenc 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe Eating Habits Questionnaire (EHQ) is a key tool in evaluating orthorexia nervosa, but its evaluation process has witnessed considerable variation, with one item notably excluded from the last phase of its development. This study undertakes a thorough re-evaluation of the English version of the EHQ, focusing on its original 35 items, within two diverse populations where English serves predominantly as a second language. Through an online survey involving 163 female models and 243 non-models, participants completed the EHQ along with the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI) and SCOFF questionnaire. Using Confirmatory Factor Analysis, we scrutinised the factorial validity of EHQ subscales, eliminating items that did not align with the factor structure. After eliminating 17 items from the original 35-item questionnaire, the fit of the model for EHQ was acceptable. Cronbach’s alpha values indicated acceptable reliability. The EHQ problem subscale showed significant positive correlations with all EDI subscales, while all EHQ subscales demonstrated significant positive correlations with the EDI drive for thinness subscale. Comparison of the groups based on the SCOFF threshold revealed positive and significant differences across all subscales. The study examined the impact of replacing an item in the EHQ-21 during its development process, finding that it potentially influenced the resulting factor structure. A new version of EHQ (EHQ-18) was introduced supported by the analysis of the factorial and convergent validity, as well as the reliability. Furthermore, the findings suggest a potential discriminant validity of EHQ-18 in a diverse population, mostly speaking English as a second language.
Interventions used to improve air flow in hospitals – a rapid review
Authors: Brady Gráinne , Bennin Fiona , Koning Rosaline De , Tiwari Manish K , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia , Morris Danielle , Lloyd-Dehler Elizabeth , Slann Jerry , Watt Simon , Stevenson Fiona , Khadjesari Zarnie , Dehbi Hakim-Moulay , Ducci Andrea , Torii Ryo , Ciric Lena , Epstein Ruth , Rubin John , Houlihan Catherine , Hunter Rachael , Lovat Laurence B 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for improved air flow in hospitals, to reduce the transmission of airborne infections such as COVID-19. The aim of this review was to map the existing literature on intervention used to improve air flow in hospitals, understanding challenges in implementation and the findings of any evaluations. We reviewed peer-reviewed articles identified on three databases, MEDLINE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library with no restriction on date. 5846 articles were identified, 130 were reviewed and 18 were included: ten articles were from databases and eight articles were identified through hand searching. Results were discussed in terms of three categories: (i) concentration of aerosol particles, (ii) changes in/effect of air speed and ventilation and (iii) improvements or reduction in health conditions. Eight studies included an evaluation, the majority only had one comparator condition however three had multiple conditions. The most common device or method that was outlined by researchers was HEPA filters, which can remove particles with a size of 3 microns. Articles outline different interventions to improve air flow and some demonstrate their effectiveness in terms of improving health outcomes for patients, they also suggest either mechanical and natural ventilation are the best methods for dispersing particulate matter as well as perhaps two air cleaning units rather than one. With different methods comes different strengths and weaknesses however, the key finding is that air flow improvement measures reduce the likelihood of nosocomial infections.
The macroeconomic and epidemiological impacts of Covid-19 in Pakistan
Authors: Jensen Henning Tarp , Keogh-Brown Marcus R. , Eggo Rosalind M. , Pearson Carl A. B. , Torres-Rueda Sergio , Huda Maryam , Khalid Muhammad , Zulfiqar Wahaj ,   CMMID COVID-19 Working Group, Smith Richard D. , Jit Mark , Vassall Anna 
Published: October 2023

Abstract“Coronavirus Disease 2019” (C19) is a respiratory illness caused by “new Coronavirus” SARS-CoV-2. The C19 pandemic, which engulfed the world in 2021, also caused a national C19 epidemic in Pakistan, who responded with initial forced lockdowns (15-30 March 2020) and a subsequent switch to a smart lockdown strategy, and, by 31 December 2020, Pakistan had managed to limit confirmed cases and case fatalities to 482,506 (456 per 100,000) and 10,176 (4.8 per 100,000). The early switch to a smart lockdown strategy, and successful follow-up move to central coordination and effective communication and enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures, was motivated by a concern over how broad-based forced lockdowns would affect poor households and day-labour. The current study aims to investigate how the national Pakistan C19 epidemic would have unfolded under an uncontrolled baseline scenario and an alternative set of controlled non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPI) policy lockdown scenarios, including health and macroeconomic outcomes. We employ a dynamically-recursive version of the IFPRI Standard Computable General Equilibrium model framework (Lofgren, Lee Harris and Robinson 2002), and a, by now, well-established epidemiological transmission-dynamic model framework (Davies, Klepac et al 2020) using Pakistan-specific 5-year age-group contact matrices on four types of contact rates, including at home, at work, at school, and at other locations (Prem, Cook & Jit 2017), to characterize an uncontrolled spread of disease. Our simulation results indicate that an uncontrolled C19 epidemic, by itself, would have led to a 0.12% reduction in Pakistani GDP (−721mn USD), and a total of 0.65mn critically ill and 1.52mn severely ill C19 patients during 2020-21, while 405,000 Pakistani citizens would have lost their lives. Since the majority of case fatalities and symptomatic cases, respectively 345,000 and 35.9mn, would have occurred in 2020, the case fatality and confirmed case numbers, observed by 31. December 2020 represents an outcome which is far better than the alternative. Case fatalities by 31. December 2020 could possibly have been somewhat improved either via a more prolonged one-off 10 week forced lockdown (66% reduction) or a 1-month forced lockdown/2-months opening intermittent lockdown strategy (33% reduction), but both sets of strategies would have carried significant GDP costs in the order of 2.2%-6.2% of real GDP.