bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of interrelationships between cognitive performance, symptomatic manifestation and social functioning in the acute and clinical stability phase of schizophrenia: insights from a network analysis
Authors: Misiak Błażej , Piotrowski Patryk , Samochowiec Jerzy
Published: October 2023

Background

It has been shown that various aspects of clinical manifestation of schizophrenia are strongly related to social functioning. However, it remains unknown as to whether similar factors predict social functioning at various stages of psychosis. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the effects of interconnections between various domains of psychopathology and neurocognition on social functioning in people during acute phase of psychosis and those during remission of positive and disorganization symptoms using a network analysis.

Methods

Two independent samples of individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders were enrolled (89 inpatients during acute phase and 90 outpatients during remission of positive and disorganization symptoms). Clinical assessment covered the levels of functioning, positive, negative and depressive symptoms. Cognition was recorded using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). Data were analyzed by means of the network analysis. Two separate networks of clinical symptoms, social functioning, and cognition (i.e., in patients during acute phase of psychosis and remitted outpatients with schizophrenia) were analyzed and compared with respect to the measures of centrality (betweenness, closeness, strength, and expected influence) and edge weights.

Results

In both networks, the majority of centrality metrics (expected influence, strength, and closeness) had the highest values for the RBANS scores of attention (the sum of scores from two tasks, i.e., digit span and coding) and immediate memory. In both networks, social functioning was directly connected to positive, negative and depressive symptoms as well as the RBANS scores of attention and language. Additionally, in remitted patients, social functioning was directly connected to the RBANS score of immediate memory.

Conclusions

Findings from the present study indicate the central role of cognitive deficits, especially those related to attention, processing speed, working and immediate memory in shaping functional impairments regardless of schizophrenia phase. Therapeutic interventions that aim to improve functional capacity need to target these domains of neurocognitive performance.
Exploring the perspective of young adults about anaemia prevention; the contributions of knowledge about at-risk groups and consequences of anaemia
Authors: Benfo Audrey , Zumesew Francis , Akoto Ebenezer Bugyei , Ahiakwah Edward , Baidoo Belinda , Agyapong Nana Ama Frimpomaa , Boachie Joseph , Adu Patrick
Published: October 2023

Background

Anaemia persistently remains a grave public health challenge in most sub-Saharan African countries. Understanding the perspectives of young adults concerning the multi-factorial nature of anaemia may be an important step towards meeting the 2025 global nutrition target of halving anaemia since these individuals might be in the process of reproductive decisions.

Aim

To explore the relationship between students’ knowledge about individuals at risk of developing anaemia, and anaemia consequences, and anaemia prevention strategies in a tertiary student cohort.

Methods

This sequential exploratory study adopted a mixed-methods approach to triangulate the data collection. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather baseline data regarding students’ perspective on anaemia. Themes that emerged from the initial questionnaire data analyses guided a focus group discussion (FGD) to further explore students’ perspectives on anaemia. FGD data was thematically analysed to unearth reasons behind questionnaire item selection. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore the relationship between constructs in the anaemia knowledge questionnaire.

Results

Overall, 543 students participated in the initial questionnaire data acquisition compared to 16 in the FGD. Our latent variable structural model showed that knowing the causes of anaemia did not significantly (p > 0.05) associate with either knowledge about anaemia consequences (b = 0.113) or knowledge about anaemia prevention strategies (b = 0.042). However, knowledge about individuals at-risk of anaemia was significantly positively associated with both anaemia prevention strategies (b = 0.306, p < 0.05) and knowledge about consequences of anaemia (b = 0.543, 95%). Moreover, knowing the consequences of anaemia seemed to significantly positively mediate the association between knowledge about at-risk groups and preventive measures that could be adopted (b = 0.410, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Systems thinking public health educational campaigns that highlight the consequences of anaemia and at-risk groups are more likely to inspire the adoption of preventive strategies among young adults.
Using artificial intelligence to predict adverse outcomes in emergency department patients with hyperglycemic crises in real time
Authors: Hsu Chin-Chuan , Kao Yuan , Hsu Chien-Chin , Chen Chia-Jung , Hsu Shu-Lien , Liu Tzu-Lan , Lin Hung-Jung , Wang Jhi-Joung , Liu Chung-Feng , Huang Chien-Cheng
Published: October 2023

Background

Hyperglycemic crises are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have proposed methods to predict adverse outcomes of patients in hyperglycemic crises; however, artificial intelligence (AI) has never been used to predict adverse outcomes. We implemented an AI model integrated with the hospital information system (HIS) to clarify whether AI could predict adverse outcomes.

Methods

We included 2,666 patients with hyperglycemic crises from emergency departments (ED) between 2009 and 2018. The patients were randomized into a 70%/30% split for AI model training and testing. Twenty-two feature variables from the electronic medical records were collected. The performance of the multilayer perceptron (MLP), logistic regression, random forest, Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), support vector machine (SVM), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithms was compared. We selected the best algorithm to construct an AI model to predict sepsis or septic shock, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and all-cause mortality within 1 month. The outcomes between the non-AI and AI groups were compared after implementing the HIS and predicting the hyperglycemic crisis death (PHD) score.

Results

The MLP had the best performance in predicting the three adverse outcomes, compared with the random forest, logistic regression, SVM, KNN, and LightGBM models. The areas under the curves (AUCs) using the MLP model were 0.852 for sepsis or septic shock, 0.743 for ICU admission, and 0.796 for all-cause mortality. Furthermore, we integrated the AI predictive model with the HIS to assist decision making in real time. No significant differences in ICU admission or all-cause mortality were detected between the non-AI and AI groups. The AI model performed better than the PHD score for predicting all-cause mortality (AUC 0.796 vs. 0.693).

Conclusions

A real-time AI predictive model is a promising method for predicting adverse outcomes in ED patients with hyperglycemic crises. Further studies recruiting more patients are warranted.
Retention of hybrid-abutment-crowns with offset implant placement: influence of Crown materials and Ti-base height
Authors: Alseddiek Ahmed , Al-Zordk Walid , Attia Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Background

The purpose of the current study was to assess the impact of three esthetic CAD/CAM material, titanium base height and their interaction on the retention strength of a hybrid-abutment-crown.

Methods

A total of 42 hybrid-abutment crowns with identical external geometries were designed in CAD software to fit two different Ti-Base abutment heights (n = 42/abutment height): either short (S) with 4 mm (n = 21) or long (L) 7 mm (n = 21) height. Each main group was divided into 3 subgroups (n = 7), according to esthetic crown material, Zirconia (Z), Lithium disilicate (L) and Hybrid ceramic (V). A universal primer and an adhesive resin cement were used for bonding according to the manufacturer instructions. Artificial aging in form of water storage (30 days), chewing simulation (50,000-cycles, 49 N, 1.67 Hz) and thermal cyclic (5000 cycles at 5–55 °C) were applied, specimens were pulled-out under tension load in (N) using a universal testing machine. Two and one-way ANOVA and Post Hoc Tukey test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Long lithium disilicate (LL) group showed the highest retention (738.7 ± 178.5) followed by short lithium disilicate (LS) group (688.6 ± 169.9). Meanwhile, short zirconia (ZS) showed the lowest retention strength (231.1 ± 86.9).

Conclusion

CAD/CAM fabricated lithium disilicate hybrid-abutment-crown can be used instead of conventional crowns over implant abutment. Etchable ceramics are recommended as a material of choice for CAD/CAM fabricated hybrid-abutment-crowns instead of zirconia in terms of retention durability.
Influence of lip position on esthetics perception with respect to profile divergence using silhouette images
Authors: Alshammari Abdulrahman K. , Algharbi Muteb A. , Alshammari Sulaiman K. , Alenzi Ali A. , Malik Yasser R. , Abideen Malik Z. , Siddiqui Ammar A. , Madfa Ahmed A.
Published: October 2023

Background

The aim of the study was to determine the facial divergence and lip position combinations that are most and least preferred, and to investigate whether age or gender has an impact on these preferences.

Methods

The current investigation was carried out on a sample of 1077 individuals who were not experts in the field (253 men and 824 females). The research employed black silhouette photographs of profiles featuring different lip locations and profile divergences. The recruitment of participants was conducted in order to assess the attractiveness of the profiles, employing a Likert scale. The various positions of the lips and variations in facial profiles were thoroughly categorized. Results were analyzed using the Chi-square test.

Results

The findings of the research demonstrated that aesthetic perceptions displayed diversity when considering different lip locations and profile divergences. It was shown that neutral lip positions were predominantly favored, accounting for approximately 40.2% of the total frequencies in the anterior diverging group. It is noteworthy to highlight the aesthetically pleasing features exhibited by those with the most prominent lip position, occurring at a frequency of 10.9% in straight-diverging group. In the posterior divergent group, the most protruded lip position, showed very attractive aesthetics with frequency (7.1%). Gender, age, region, and level of education had significant influence on aesthetic perception.

Conclusions

The variety of aesthetic preferences is influenced by the location of the lips and the divergence of the facial profile, resulting in different outcomes within the categories of anterior, straight, and posterior divergence. Clinicians are advised to customize the treatment regimen in order to correspond with the unique desires and preferences of the patient.
Ovotesticular disorder of sex development in a 46 XY adolescent: a rare case report with review of the literature
Authors: Bbs Koui , Ad Abouna , Djiwa Toukilnan , B Traore , M Kouyate , Ke Kouame , Na Aman
Published: October 2023

Introduction

: Ovotestis is a rare cause of sexual ambiguity characterized by the presence in a patient of both testicular and ovarian tissue, leading to the development of both male and female structures. We report a case of ovotestis diagnosed in an adolescent, with a review of the literature.

Case Report

A 15-year-old patient presented with a right scrotal swelling associated with gynecomastia. Histology showed a juxtaposition of ovarian stroma with ovarian follicle and seminiferous tubules. Karyotype revealed a male subject (XY). We have therefore retained the diagnosis of ovotesticular disorders of sex development.

Conclusion

Ovotestis is a rare finding, heterogeneous in its genetic etiology and clinical presentation. While many patients are diagnosed during infancy or childhood, we presented a case diagnosed in a 15-year-old adolescent.
A single-institutional retrospective analysis of factors related to vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Zeng Hongmin , Dai Qianling , Jiang Dan
Published: October 2023

Background

To date, few studies on the factors related to vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VaIN) have been published. In this study, we aimed to analyze the features of VaIN and identify underlying risk factors.

Methods

Patients with VaIN or vaginitis histologically confirmed at the Industrial Street Branch of Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital from July 2020 to December 2021 were included. We statistically analyzed their baseline clinical characteristics, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection status, cytology results, and pathology results. Categorical indicators were analyzed using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate. Differences were considered to be statistically different with p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 62 patients with VaIN (mean age: 39.06 ± 11.66 years) and 32 with vaginitis (mean age: 41.13 ± 13.43 years) were included. Synchronous cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) was histologically identified in 46 (74.2%) patients with VaIN and 7 (21.9%) with vaginitis (p < 0.001). Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSILs) and atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) were the most frequent cytological abnormalities in both groups. Patients with VaIN only (62.5%) were more likely to be negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy than patients with synchronous CIN (32.6%; p = 0.036). No statistically significant difference in HPV infection was noted between patients with VaIN and those with vaginitis (p = 0.439). The most prevalent HPV genotype in patients with VaIN or vaginitis was HPV16, whereas both HPV58 and HPV16 were the most common in patients with concurrent CIN.

Conclusions

Attention should be paid to HPV16- and HPV58-positive patients with cytological abnormalities such as ASC-US and LSILs (especially with synchronous CIN) to avoid misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis and to facilitate early interventions for VaIN.
Examining preconditions for integrated care: a comparative social network analysis of the structure and dynamics of strong relations in child service networks
Authors: Blanken Mariëlle , Mathijssen Jolanda , van Nieuwenhuizen Chijs , Raab Jörg , van Oers Hans
Published: October 2023

Background

To help ensure that children and families get the right support and services at the right time, strong and stable relationships between various child service organizations are vital. Moreover, strong and stable relationships and a key network position for gatekeepers are important preconditions for interprofessional collaboration, the timely and appropriate referral of clients, and improved health outcomes. Gatekeepers are organizations that have specific legal authorizations regarding client referral. However, it is largely unclear how strong relations in child service networks are structured, whether the gatekeepers have strong and stable relationships, and what the critical relations in the overall structure are. The aim of this study is to explore these preconditions for integrated care by examining the internal structure and dynamics of strong relations.

Methods

A comparative case study approach and social network analysis of three inter-organizational networks consisting of 65 to 135 organizations within the Dutch child service system. Multiple network measures (number of active organizations, isolates, relations, average degree centrality, Lambda sets) were used to examine the strong relation structure and dynamics of the networks. Ucinet was used to analyze the data, with use of the statistical test: Quadratic Assignment Procedure. Visone was used to visualize the graphs of the networks.

Results

This study shows that more than 80% of the organizations in the networks have strong relations. A striking finding is the extremely high number of strong relations that gatekeepers need to maintain. Moreover, the results show that the most important gatekeepers have key positions, and their strong relations are relatively stable. By contrast, considering the whole network, we also found a considerable measure of instability in strong relationships, which means that child service networks must cope with major internal dynamics.

Conclusions

Our study addressed crucial preconditions for integrated care. The extremely high number of strong relations that particularly gatekeepers need to build and maintain, in combination with the considerable instability of strong relations considering the whole network, is a serious point of concern that need to be managed, in order to enable child service networks to improve internal coordination and integration of service delivery.
Cross-validation of comorbidity items in two national databases in a sample of patients with end-stage kidney disease
Authors: Vanorio-Vega Isabella , Constantinou Panayotis , Hami Assia , Cellarier Eric , Rachas Antoine , Tuppin Philippe , Couchoud Cécile
Published: October 2023

Background

The use of national medico-administrative databases for epidemiological studies has increased in the last decades. In France, the Healthcare Expenditures and Conditions Mapping (HECM) algorithm has been developed to analyse and monitor the morbidity and economic burden of 58 diseases. We aimed to assess the performance of the HECM in identifying different conditions in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) using data from the REIN registry (the French National Registry for patients with ESKD).

Methods

We included all patients over 18 years of age who started renal replacement therapy in France in 2018. Five conditions with a similar definition in both databases were included (ESKD, diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], coronary insufficiency, and cancer). The performance of each SNDS algorithm was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values (PPVs), negative predictive values (NPVs), and Cohen’s kappa coefficient.

Results

In total 5,971 patients were included. Among them, 81% were identified as having ESKD in both databases. Diabetes was the condition with the best performance, with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and Kappa coefficient all over 80%. Cancer had the lowest level of agreement with a Kappa coefficient of 51% and a high specificity and high NPV (94% and 95%). The conditions for which the definition in the HECM included disease-specific medications performed better in our study.

Conclusion

The HECM showed good to very good concordance with the REIN database information overall, with the exception of cancer. Further validation of the HECM tool in other populations should be performed.
Automated evaluation of typical patient–ventilator asynchronies based on lung hysteretic responses
Authors: Chen Yuhong , Zhang Kun , Zhou Cong , Chase J. Geoffrey , Hu Zhenjie
Published: October 2023

Background

Patient–ventilator asynchrony is common during mechanical ventilation (MV) in intensive care unit (ICU), leading to worse MV care outcome. Identification of asynchrony is critical for optimizing MV settings to reduce or eliminate asynchrony, whilst current clinical visual inspection of all typical types of asynchronous breaths is difficult and inefficient. Patient asynchronies create a unique pattern of distortions in hysteresis respiratory behaviours presented in pressure–volume (PV) loop.

Methods

Identification method based on hysteretic lung mechanics and hysteresis loop analysis is proposed to delineate the resulted changes of lung mechanics in PV loop during asynchronous breathing, offering detection of both its incidence and 7 major types. Performance is tested against clinical patient data with comparison to visual inspection conducted by clinical doctors.

Results

The identification sensitivity and specificity of 11 patients with 500 breaths for each patient are above 89.5% and 96.8% for all 7 types, respectively. The average sensitivity and specificity across all cases are 94.6% and 99.3%, indicating a very good accuracy. The comparison of statistical analysis between identification and human inspection yields the essential same clinical judgement on patient asynchrony status for each patient, potentially leading to the same clinical decision for setting adjustment.

Conclusions

The overall results validate the accuracy and robustness of the identification method for a bedside monitoring, as well as its ability to provide a quantified metric for clinical decision of ventilator setting. Hence, the method shows its potential to assist a more consistent and objective assessment of asynchrony without undermining the efficacy of the current clinical practice.
Influence of high altitude after a prior ascent on physical exhaustion during cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a randomised crossover alpine field experiment
Authors: Niederer Maximilian , Tscherny Katharina , Burger Josef , Wandl Bettina , Fuhrmann Verena , Kienbacher Calvin L. , Schreiber Wolfgang , Herkner Harald , Roth Dominik , Egger Alexander
Published: October 2023

Background

Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) inevitably causes significant physical, as well as psychological stress for rescuers. Physical activity at high altitude, a hypobaric and hypoxic environment, similarly adds to the level of stress and causes multiple physiological changes. Continuous measurement of pulse rate serves as an objective measure of fatigue during CPR. We therefore aimed to investigate rescuers’ heart rates as a measure of physical strain during CPR in a high-altitude alpine environment to provide a better understanding of the physiological changes under these very special conditions.

Methods

Twenty experienced mountaineers performed basic life support (BLS) on a manikin for 16 min, both at baseline altitude and at high altitude (3454 m) following a quick and exhausting ascent over 1200 m. Sequence of scenarios was randomised for analysis. Heart rate was continuously measured and compared between baseline and high altitude by absolute differences and robust confidence intervals.

Results

During CPR at baseline, the average heart rate increased from 87 bpm (SD 16 bpm) to 104 bpm [increase 17 bpm (95% CI 8.24–24.76)], compared to an increase from 119 bpm (SD 12 bpm) to 124 bpm [increase 5 bpm (95% CI − 1.59 to 12.19)] at high altitude [difference between two groups 32 bpm (95% CI 25–39)]. Differences between periods of chest compressions and ventilations were very similar at baseline [19 bpm (95%CI 16.98–20.27)] and at high altitude [20 bpm 95% CI 18.56–21.44)], despite starting from a much higher level at high altitude. The average heart rates of rescuers at high altitude at any point were higher than those at baseline at any other point.

Conclusion

Performing BLS CPR causes exhaustion both at base level and at a high altitude. A further increase during CPR might imply a physiological reserve for adapting to additional physical exertion at high altitude. Phases of ventilation are much needed recovery-periods, but heart rates remain very high. Subjective measures of exhaustion, such as the BORG-scale, might lead to rescuers’ overestimation of their own performance.
Association of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and adherence to a healthy lifestyle with incident dementia: a large prospective cohort study
Authors: Xiong Sizheng , Hou Ningxin , Tang Feifei , Li Jun , Deng Hongping
Published: October 2023

Background

The co-occurrence of cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) is increasingly prevalent and has been associated with an additive risk of dementia in older adults, but the extent to which this risk can be offset by a healthy lifestyle is unknown. We aimed to examine the associations of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and lifestyle with incident dementia and related brain structural changes.

Methods

This prospective study extracted health and lifestyle data from 171 538 UK Biobank participants aged 60 years or older without dementia at baseline between 2006 and 2010 and followed up until July 2021, as well as brain structural data in a nested imaging subsample of 11 972 participants. Cardiometabolic multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more CMDs among type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. Lifestyle patterns were determined based on 7 modifiable lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, diet, sleep duration, sedentary behavior, and social contact.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 12.3 years, 4479 (2.6%) participants developed dementia. The presence of CMDs was dose-dependently associated with an increased risk of dementia. Compared with participants with no CMDs and a favourable lifestyle, those with ≥ 3 CMDs and an unfavourable lifestyle had a five times greater risk of developing dementia (HR 5.33, 95% CI 4.26–6.66). A significant interaction was found between CMD status and lifestyle (Pinteraction=0.001). The absolute difference in incidence rates of dementia per 1000 person years comparing favourable versus unfavourable lifestyle was − 0.65 (95% CI − 1.02 to − 0.27) among participants with no CMDs and − 5.64 (− 8.11 to − 3.17) among participants with ≥ 3 CMDs, corresponding to a HR of 0.71 (0.58–0.88) and 0.42 (0.28–0.63), respectively. In the imaging subsample, a favourable lifestyle was associated with larger total brain, grey matter, and hippocampus volumes across CMD status.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that adherence to a healthy lifestyle might substantially attenuate dementia risk and adverse brain structural changes associated with cardiometabolic multimorbidity.
Knowledge and technology transfer in and beyond mineral exploration
Authors: Kesselring Michaela , Kirsch Moritz , Wagner Frank , Gloaguen Richard
Published: October 2023

In natural sciences, mineral exploration has a high network centrality. For industries with high technological- and knowledge proximity, transfer effects are an important function for innovation. Despite the high level of proximity between mineral exploration and other natural sciences, scholars hardly examine transfers from and to mineral exploration. This paper analyzes obstacles and mechanisms of transfer effects in and from mineral exploration and finds answers on how to institutionalize knowledge and technology transfer (KTT). The study employs a qualitative research design. The underlying database consists of 16 expert interviews, from the fields of natural science. The results show that KTT between areas as diverse as mineral exploration, healthcare, and arts are possible. A lack of interdisciplinary exchange and rigid scientific structures is the main inhibitor of KTT. Before this study, evidence for KTT from and to smaller industries is mostly anecdotal. The study is among the few, which investigates KTT concerning functional transfer opportunities.
Association of balance impairment with risk of incident cardiovascular diseases among older adults
Authors: Kim Hye Jun , Jeong Seogsong , Suh Michelle J. , Oh Yun Hwan
Published: October 2023

Background

Rapid decline in balance is a hallmark of aging, elevating the risk of falls and other age-related geriatric illnesses among older adults.

Objective

Our aim was to assess whether impairment in balance function is associated with the risk of incident CVD in older adults.

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Participants

A total of 129,024 participants who had undergone health screening between 2002 and 2009 were derived from the National Health Insurance Service-Senior cohort.

Main measures

Balance impairment was evaluated using the open-eyes one-leg standing (OLS) test. The association between balance impairment and incident CVD was analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model. All participants were followed up with until either the date of the first incident of CVD, death, or 31 December 2019.

Key results

Those with abnormal balance function (< 10 s in OLS test) had a higher risk of CVD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.23, CI 1.16–1.31). The association was significant in both the obese and the non-obese, but it seemed to be more pronounced in the latter. Results were supported by sensitivity analyses that did not include cases of CVD development in the first 1, 2, or 3 years and that used a different criterion to define balance dysfunction (< 9 s in OLS test).

Conclusions

Older adults with balance impairment were found to have an increased risk of incident CVD. Patients with impaired balance function may be a high-risk population who require preventive managements against CVD.
Designing wearable capacitive pressure sensors with arrangement of porous pyramidal microstructures
Authors: Javidi Reza , Moghimi Zand Mahdi , Alizadeh Majd Sara
Published: October 2023

Capacitive pressure sensors are essential for advanced applications like wearable medical devices, electronic skins, and biological signal detection systems. Enhancing sensitivity in these sensors is achieved by incorporating porous microstructures into the dielectric layer. The present research focuses on designing a capacitive pressure sensor comprising a porous micro-pyramidal dielectric layer featuring diagonally arranged pyramids. The effects of geometric parameters and material properties such as dielectric constant, porosity, base length, tip width, height, and the distance between the pyramidal microstructures were examined using the three-dimensional finite element simulations. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of the numerical solution. The simulation results were compared to experimental measurements, and the findings revealed a high level of agreement. The optimal quantity of data for this analysis was determined using the design of the experiment method, specifically the response surface model. The results show that arranging microstructures diagonally or laterally can impact sensitivity and initial capacitance. Specifically, employing a diagonal arrangement enhanced sensor sensitivity by up to 1.65 times while maintaining the initial capacitance relatively unaffected. Ultimately, this study derived mathematical equations from the collected data to estimate the initial capacitance and sensitivity of the sensor. The model predictions were compared to simulation results, and it was found that the models performed effectively.
Investigating the use of virtual reality to improve speaking skills: insights from students and teachers
Authors: Ironsi Chinaza Solomon
Published: October 2023

There is ongoing scientific discussion on the role of innovative technologies in enhancing teaching and learning. Technologies like augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality, artificial intelligence, and generative artificial intelligence have sparked debates in the broader literature. To contribute to ongoing discussions on these topics and to bridge gaps existing in works of literature on the potentials and challenges of innovative technologies like virtual reality, this paper provides insights from students and teachers on the use of virtual reality for teaching speaking skills so far lacking in academic prose in this domain. Given that this study only focused on obtaining student and teacher insights, a mixed-method research design that used questionnaires and interviews was implemented to investigate this study. After obtaining and analyzing data from 85 participants, the study found that although virtual reality could have improved students' speaking skills more efficiently, it was a fun and exciting learning experience for the students and teachers. Other novel findings of the study were instrumental in making pedagogic conclusions on the study's objective.
An intracellular, non-oxidative factor activates in vitro chromatin fragmentation in pig sperm
Authors: Viñolas-Vergés Estel , Yeste Marc , Garriga Ferran , Bonet Sergi , Mateo-Otero Yentel , Ribas-Maynou Jordi
Published: October 2023

Background

In vitro incubation of epididymal and vas deferens sperm with Mn2+ induces Sperm Chromatin Fragmentation (SCF), a mechanism that causes double-stranded breaks in toroid-linker regions (TLRs). Whether this mechanism, thought to require the participation of topoisomerases and/or DNAses and thus far only described in epididymal mouse sperm, can be triggered in ejaculated sperm is yet to be elucidated. The current study aimed to determine if exposure of pig ejaculated sperm to divalent ions (Mn2+ and Mg2+) activates SCF, and whether this has any impact on sperm function and survival. For this purpose, sperm DNA integrity was evaluated through the Comet assay and Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE); sperm motility and agglutination were assessed with computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA); and sperm viability and levels of total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxides were determined through flow cytometry.

Results

Incubation with Mn2+/Ca2+ activated SCF in a dose-dependent (P < 0.05) albeit not time-dependent manner (P > 0.05); in contrast, Mg2+/Ca2+ only triggered SCF at high concentrations (50 mM). The PFGE revealed that, when activated by Mn2+/Ca2+ or Mg2+/Ca2+, SCF generated DNA fragments of 33–194 Kb, compatible with the size of one or multiple toroids. Besides, Mn2+/Ca2+ affected sperm motility in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), whereas Mg2+/Ca2+ only impaired this variable at high concentrations (P < 0.05). While this effect on motility was concomitant with an increase of agglutination, neither viability nor ROS levels were affected by Mn2+/Ca2+ or Mg2+/Ca2+ treatments.

Conclusion

Mn2+/Ca2+ and Mn2+/Ca2+ were observed to induce SCF in ejaculated sperm, resulting in DNA cleavage at TLRs. The activation of this mechanism by an intracellular, non-oxidative factor sheds light on the events taking place during sperm cell death.
A review of edible saturniidae (Lepidoptera) caterpillars in Africa
Authors: Kusia Elizabeth Siago , Borgemeister Christian , Subramanian Sevgan
Published: October 2023

Background

Edible saturniids constitute an important component of traditional diets in sub-Saharan Africa. They are also a source of livelihood for many rural communities both as food and as a source of income.

Main body

This review compiles information on the diversity, distribution, decimating factors, nutrition and conservation concerns of edible saturniids. A compilation of nutritional profiles, amino-acids, mineral and fat content of saturniids is presented. Details of edible saturniids consumption and food plants are listed as well as vernacular names in different parts of Africa. A comparison of collection, processing, storage and trading methods based on available literature is also included. Processing, which is mostly carried out by women, involves tedious and time-consuming methods that need to be improved. Poor handling and storage cause bacterial and fungal contamination that raises food safety concerns. An in-depth discussion of conservation concerns and possible interventions is also provided.

Conclusion

We conclude that edible saturniids are a source of highly nutritious food and incomes to many households in SSA, but wild harvesting is increasingly becoming unsustainable. We also conclude that the seasonal nature of availability limits their potential for profitable trade Further research on rearing edible saturniids is required since wild harvesting is unsustainable. Training women and youth on mass production technologies will ensure continuous supply of the insects and help preserve their natural habitats.
Understanding the potential of digital therapies in implementing the standard of care for depression in Europe
Authors: Courtet Philippe , Amiot Odile , Baca-Garcia Enrique , Bellardita Lara , Cerveri Giancarlo , Clair Anne-Hélène , De Leo Diego , Drapier Dominique , Fakra Eric , Gheysen Francis , Giner Lucas , Gonzalez-Pinto Ana , Gussoni Gualberto , Haffen Emmanuel , Lecardeur Laurent , Mayoral-Cleries Fermin , Mennini Francesco Saverio , Sáiz Pilar A , Vieta Eduard , Hidalgo Diego Alberto , Volpe Umberto
Published: October 2023

Depressive disorders represent the largest proportion of mental illnesses, and by 2030, they are expected to be the first cause of disability-adjusted life years [1]. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated prevalence and burden of depression and increased the occurrence of depressive symptoms in general population [2]. The urgency of implementing mental health services to address new barriers to care persuaded clinicians to use telemedicine to follow patients and stay in touch with them, and to explore digital therapeutics (DTx) as potential tools for clinical intervention [2]. The combination of antidepressants and psychotherapy is widely recommended for depression by international guidelines [3] but is less frequently applied in real-world practice. Commonly used treatments are pharmacological, but while being effective, some aspects such as adherence to the drug regimen, residual symptoms, resistance, lack of information, and stigma may hinder successful treatment. In case of less severe depression, standalone psychological therapies should be the first-line treatment option [3], but access to trained psychotherapists remains inequitable. DTx are evidence-based therapies driven by software programs to treat or complement treatment of a specific disease. DTx are classified as Medical Devices, and given their therapeutic purpose, they need to be validated through randomized controlled clinical trials, as for drug-based therapies. In the last 10 years, studies of digital interventions have proliferated; these studies demonstrate that digital interventions increase remission rates and lower the severity of depressive symptoms compared with waitlist, treatment as usual, and attention control conditions [4]. Despite the efficacy demonstrated in clinical trials, many of these tools never reach real-life patients; thus, it might be necessary to implement DTx in the public health system to expand access to valid treatment options. In this framework, DTx represent a good opportunity to help people with depression receive optimal psychotherapeutic care [5].
Mechanical thrombectomy in low Alberta stroke program early CT score (ASPECTS) in hyperacute stroke—a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Baig Ammad A , Bouslama Mehdi , Turner Ryan C , Aguirre Alexander O , Kuo Cathleen C , Lim Jaims , Malueg Megan D , Donnelly Brianna M , Lai Pui Man Rosalind , Raygor Kunal P , Levy Elad I , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: October 2023

Objective

Major randomized controlled trials of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) failed to include a substantial number of patients presenting with low baseline Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS:0–5). Patients experiencing hyperacute strokes (last known well ≤ 6 h) can potentially benefit most from MT. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to report presentation severity and radiographic and clinical outcomes for hyperacute stroke patients presenting with low-ASPECTS.

Methods:

Our comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases up to August 31, 2022 included articles reporting patients presenting hyperacutely who underwent MT for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion AIS with an ASPECTS ≤ 5 on baseline imaging. Pooled averages were calculated for age and presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Fixed- and random-effects meta-analyses for weighted estimation of overall rates were performed. Forest plots were generated for proportions and estimated overall outcome rates.

Results:

18 studies (1958 patients) were included (mean age = 64.1 years; presenting NIHSS = 18.4). Final modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2b-3 grade was achieved in 76.4%, with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage in 12.1%. Good (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 0–2) and ambulatory (mRS 0–3) 3-month outcomes were achieved by 27.4 and 46.7%, respectively; 90-day mortality was 26.4%.

Conclusion:

MT in low-ASPECTS hyperacute stroke patients may result in ambulatory clinical outcomes with acceptable hemorrhage risk. Recanalization rates achieved were similar to those in patients presenting with ASPECTS ≥ 6; this did not fully translate to better clinical outcomes.

Advances in knowledge:

MT should be considered for hyperacute strokes with low presenting ASPECTS.
A rare cause of Hoffa’s fat pad impingement: the crossed-doubled patellar tendon
Authors: Munday Charlotte E , Patel Shreena U , Jain Neel , Hikmat Dina , Armstrong Thomas
Published: October 2023

We present an unusual case of Hoffa’s fat pad impingement syndrome and chondromalacia patellae in the presence of a rare congenital crossed doubled patellar tendon. The crossed-doubled patellar tendon is exceedingly rare. It’s relationship to other conditions involved in anterior knee pain is unclear; however, this case highlights potential pathological associations.
Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica: a case report highlighting the importance of clinico-radiologic correlation
Authors: Rodriguez Naomi Jillan V. , Manto Jeffrey T. , Sydiongco-Inocencio Paula Marie M. , Dela Cruz Janine Marriah G. , Ilustre Gabriel Martin S. , Dela Cruz Anna Pamela C.
Published: October 2023

Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TBPO) is a rare and benign idiopathic disease of the tracheobronchial tree, characterized by osseous, and/or cartilaginous submucosal nodules involving the anterior and lateral walls of the airways with sparing of the posterior wall. We present a case of a 51-year-old non-smoker female, presenting with a 2-year history of gradually enlarging anterior neck mass with foreign body sensation, frequent throat clearing, and occasional hoarseness. She was initially diagnosed with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis due to the presence of nodules on flexible laryngoscopy. A plain neck and chest CT then showed irregularity of the tracheal walls with calcified nodules projecting into the lumen, sparing the posterior wall, consistent with TBPO. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy with biopsy was also done which confirmed the inferior extent of the nodules down to the level of the carina, and the presence of fragments of mature bone tissue within the nodules.
Assessment of CBCT gray value in different regions-of-interest and fields-of-view compared to Hounsfield unit
Authors: Yadegari Atiye , Safi Yaser , Shahbazi Soheil , Yaghoutiazar Sahar , Ghazizadeh Ahsaie Mitra
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

Different factors can affect the discrepancy between the gray value (GV) measurements obtained from CBCT and the Hounsfield unit (HU) derived from multidetector CT (MDCT), which is considered the gold-standard density scale. This study aimed to explore the impact of region of interest (ROI) location and field of view (FOV) size on the difference between these two scales as a potential source of error.

Methods

Three phantoms, each consisting of a water-filled plastic bin containing a dry dentate human skull, were prepared. CBCT scans were conducted using the NewTom VGi evo system, while MDCT scans were performed using Philips system. Three different FOV sizes (8 × 8 cm, 8 × 12 cm, and 12 × 15 cm) were used, and the GVs obtained from eight distinct ROIs were compared with the HUs from the MDCT scans. The ROIs included dental and bony regions within the anterior and posterior areas of both jaws. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v. 26.

Results

The GVs derived from CBCT images were significantly influenced by both ROI location and FOV size (p < 0.05 for both factors). Following the comparison between GVs and HUs, the anterior mandibular bone ROI represented the minimum error, while the posterior mandibular teeth exhibited the maximum error. Moreover, the 8 × 8 cm and 12 × 15 cm FOVs resulted in the lowest and highest degrees of GV error, respectively.

Conclusions

The ROI location and the FOV size can significantly affect the GVs obtained from CBCT images. It is not recommended to use the GV scale within the posterior mandibular teeth region due to the potential for error. Additionally, selecting smaller FOV sizes, such as 8 × 8 cm, can provide GVs closer to the gold-standard numbers.
Η Στοιχείωσις Θεολογική του Πρόκλου
Authors: Ντότσικα Αικατερίνη
Published: October 2023

Αντικείμενο της εν λόγω διατριβής αποτελεί η μεταφραστική και ερμηνευτική προσέγγιση της Στοιχειώσεως Θεολογικής, ενός εκ των συστηματικών έργων του Πρόκλου, ο οποίος αποτελεί κορυφαία μορφή του νεοπλατωνισμού με ογκώδες συστηματικό και υπομνηματιστικό σε πλατωνικούς διαλόγους έργο. Το κείμενο αυτό, όπως και πολλά άλλα της περιόδου, απουσιάζει παντελώς από την ελληνική βιβλιογραφία, ενώ και στην ξενόγλωσση τα τελευταία μόλις χρόνια έχει αναθερμανθεί το ενδιαφέρον των ερευνητών για το Νεοπλατωνισμό γενικότερα και για τον Πρόκλο ειδικότερα. Η μελέτη δε του συγκεκριμένου έργου προκρίνεται σε σύγκριση με τα λοιπά της περιόδου, καθώς είναι το μοναδικό που αναπτύσσει ως σύνολο και ως ενότητα το μεταφυσικό σύστημα του ρεύματος του Νεοπλατωνισμού.
Border disease virus and chlamydophila abortus co-infection in aborted sheep foetuses
Authors: Şevik M
Published: October 2023

Abortion in sheep and goats is one of the most important reproductive problems that affect small ruminants breeding. Non-infectious factors and infectious agents such as bacterial, viral, mycotic and parasitic infectious agents can cause abortion in sheep and goats. A high rate of abortion (43.75%) was observed in two sheep flocks in Niğde Province in Turkey during the lambing season in 2016. To determine the reason of abortion, aborted sheep foetuses (n = 3) and EDTA whole blood samples (n = 3) from mother of the foetuses were collected from two sheep flocks. Aborted foetuses and buffy coat cells of the EDTA whole blood samples were used for total nucleic acid extraction. Extracted nucleic acids were analysed for akabane virus (AKAV), bluetongue virus (BTV), peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV), pestiviruses, Schmallenberg virus (SBV), Brucella spp., Chlamydophila abortus (C. abortus), Coxiella burnetii and Listeria monocytogenes. Border disease virus (BDV) RNA and C. abortus DNA were detected in three aborted sheep foetuses whereas other investigated infectious agents were not detected. Additionally, EDTA whole blood samples from mother of the foetuses were also found BDV positive. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first report on BDV and C. abortus co-infection in aborted sheep foetuses.