bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of Academic Emotion and Hardiness Personality of Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Guo Lili , Yan Danfeng , Yan Junping , Jiao Rui
Published: October 2023

Background: Academic emotion is a fundamental emotional concept closely linked to academic achievement. Understanding the connection between academic emotion and the personality trait of hardiness is pivotal in maintaining a stable career orientation throughout one's educational journey. Therefore, in pursuit of fostering the robust growth of nursing careers, it is imperative to delve into the academic emotions experienced by undergraduate nursing students. This study endeavors to mitigate the impact of gender differences among nursing students while investigating the intricate relationship between academic emotions and the trait of hardiness in their personalities.
Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional research design. We gathered data from a convenient sample of 292 nursing students enrolled at XX University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Each student provided demographic information and responded to a general academic mood questionnaire, as well as a hardiness Personality Rating Scale. Subsequently, we used canonical correlation analysis to evaluate the correlation between academic emotion and tenacity personality in 292 undergraduate nursing students.
Results: We discovered that academic emotions among nursing students are predominantly characterized by feelings of disappointment and boredom. Furthermore, personality hardiness is primarily influenced by the dimensions of engagement and control. It is important to note that a heightened level of negative, low-arousal academic emotions can diminish the level of engagement. The first typical correlation coefficients corresponding to academic emotion and hardiness were 0.660. The linear combination of standardized variables of the first typical variable corresponding to academic emotion (X1) = -0.444*negative hyperarousal -0.443 * positive hyperarousal + 0.694 * negative hypoarousal -0.260 * positive hypoarousal. The standardized variable equation of the first typical variable corresponding to hardiness personality (η1) = 0.235* hardiness -0.433* control -0.530* investment -0.303* challenge.
Conclusions: The collective academic emotions experienced by nursing students tend to lean towards negativity with lower arousal levels. Additionally, there is a prevailing perception among them that the amount of effort they invest is often disproportionate to the rewards they receive. These feelings of inequity can significantly undermine their academic emotions. These findings offer valuable insights for nursing educators, highlighting the importance of focusing on enhancing nursing students' academic interests and aiding them in selecting suitable career paths within the nursing profession.
Pattern of lymph node metastases and its implication in radiotherapeutic clinical target volume in patients with small cell carcinoma of the esophagus: A multicenter retrospective trial from China (CHiSCEC)
Authors: Zhang Qi , Sun Hongfu , Wang Qifeng , Zhang Yaowen , Zhao Lina , Shen Wenbin , Zhang Wencheng , Ge Xiaolin , Su Xiujun , Yang Ning , Li Lei , Liu Shenxiang , Wang Feng , Ma Jie , Yang Ya , Wang Yi , Tan Bingxu , Dong Wei , Zhang Jian , Sun Daqing , Huang Wei
Published: October 2023

Purpose:
In order to study the pattern of LNM after esophagectomy of small cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SCCE) and clarify the clinical target volume (CTV) delineation of definite radiotherapy for SCCE.
Methods:
From January 2007 to December 2020, 286 patients with SCCE who had undergone esophagectomy and lymphadenectomy were retrospectively examined from 14 cancer centers in China. The distribution of lymph node metastases (LNM) were evaluated and the clinicopathologic factors related to lymph node metastasis were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.
Results:
177 patients (61.9%) occurred LNM in the 286 patients, and the incidence of LNM was 12.3%(597/4850).Those sites with an LNR rate higher than 10% in upper thoracic SCCE were as follows: No.105, No. 106recR and No.106recL. Those with middle thoracic SCCE were as follows: No.107, No.108 and abdominal No. 7. Lastly, individuals with lower thoracic SCCE were as follows: No.107, No. 110, abdominal No. 2, and abdominal No. 7. T stage, age and the length of tumor were the statistically significant risk factors of LNM of SCCE (P < 0.05).A nodal clinical target volume ༈CTVn) countoring recommendation were offered.
Conclusions:
LNM pattern of SCCE varies depending upon the primary tumor location. The irradiation field must be designed according to the primary tumor location. The rate of lymph node metastasis of the SCCE increased with the T stage and the length of tumor. These factors and the correlated lymphatic drainage regions should be considered when designing the CTV for Selective regional irradiation of SCCE.
Single-cell RNA sequencing and m6A RNA methylation sequencing and reveal cellular and molecular mechanisms of radiation combined with PD-1 blockade in NSCLC
Authors: Yang Hao , Hou Hui , Dou Ting , Geng Hongwei , Li Hong , Zhang Wei , Yu Hongfang , Sun Liping , He Jiefu , Zhao Haiping , Liu Kuan , Wang Zhenfei
Published: October 2023

Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality, and more than 85% of lung cancer cases are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The heterogeneity and molecular basis of this disease remain incompletely understood.
Methods: To address this question, we have performed a single-cell RNA sequencing as well as m6A RNA methylation sequencing of matched untreated and radiation combined with PD-1 blockade NSCLC samples.
Results: A total of 21019 cells are categorized into eleven distinct cell types, including fibroblast, macrophages\monocyte, B cell, dendritic cell, endothelial cells, neutrophils, T\Natural killer (NK) cells, NK cells, and cancer stem cells (CSCs). Further analysis of the CSCs showed that radiotherapy combined with immunotherapy effectively reduced the number of CSCs and exhausted CD8+T cells, and increased the naive CD8+ T cells. Dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways, including the Wnt, is associated with lung cancer metastasis through the TCGA tumor dataset analysis. Wnt10b is a member of the Wnt family, which plays an important role in the Wnt signalling pathway. Moreover, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) sequencing has identified obesity-associated protein (FTO) as a direct target of m6A modification whose levels were regulated by Wnt10b, suggesting the FTO as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of lung cancer. Finally, our study reveals the potential pathogenesis of FTO/Wnt10b/b-catenin signaling pathway in NSCLC development.
Conclusions: Collectively, this study proves that radiation combined with PD-1 blockade inhibits the stemness of CSCs through the FTO/Wnt10b/β-catenin pathway in NSCLC, which might provide insights for cancer immunotherapies.
Effects of Optimal Medical Therapy in Patients Undergoing PCI: Subgroup Analysis of the POST-PCI Trial
Authors: Kwun Ju-Seung , Choi Jina , Kim Sun-Hwa , Kang Do-Yoon , Park Duk-Woo , Park Seung-Jung , Hur Seung-Ho , Kim Won-Jang , Park Chul Soo , Lee Bong-Ki , Yoon Jung Han , Choi Jae Woong , Kim Kee-Sik , Choi Si Wan , Lee Su Nam , Chae In-Ho , Suh Jung-Won
Published: October 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major global health concern, and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is commonly used for revascularization. Optimal medical therapy (OMT) is recommended to complement PCI. However, whether OMT significantly benefits high-risk CAD patients remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate potential benefits of OMT in high-risk CAD patients who underwent PCI, through a post-hoc subgroup analysis of the POST-PCI trial comparing patients who did and did not receive OMT. The primary endpoint was major cardiovascular events (death from any cause, myocardial infarction, or hospitalization for unstable angina) at 2 years; secondary endpoints included individual components of the primary outcome. The OMT group comprised patients with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. However, clinical outcomes did not differ significantly between OMT and non-OMT groups. Additionally, the OMT group had a significantly reduced invasive coronary angiography rate than the non-OMT group (74.0% vs. 89.1%, odds ratio: 0.35, 95% confidence interval: 0.15–0.81, p = 0.014). The non-OMT group tended to have a higher proportion of symptomatic patients undergoing repeat revascularization than the OMT group (81.7% vs. 65.5%, p = 0.070). In conclusion, OMT did not result in significantly different clinical outcomes in high-risk CAD patients post-PCI compared with non-administration of OMT. However, OMT has potential benefits in reducing unnecessary procedures and optimizing patient care. Further studies are needed to better understand OMT benefits in this patient population.
GIMAP8 is a promising prognostic biomarker correlated with immune infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Shiyue , Li Hong , Hu Pengchao , Zhuo Yuejian , Hu Jiegang , Sun Weizi , Dong Youhong , He Zhongshi
Published: October 2023

Background
GIMAP8 reportedly regulates the progression of several cancers. However, data regarding its prognostic value in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are limited. We aimed to investigate the correlation between GIMAP8 expression, prognosis, and tumor infiltration in LUAD.
Material and methods
The expression and prognostic value of GIMAP8 in LUAD were explored using public The Cancer Genome Atlas-LUAD databases and validated using multiple resources, including the Human Protein Atlas, Gene Expression Omnibus, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, OncoLnc, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and univariate and multivariate analyses. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to investigate the biological roles of GIMAP8. The ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms, The Cancer Immunome Database, and ssGSEA analyses were used to investigate the correlation between GIMAP8 expression and cancer immune characteristics.
Results
Low GIMAP8 expression was observed in LUAD compared to that in normal lung tissues, whereas high GIMAP8 expression correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and increased overall survival (OS). ROC analysis confirmed GIMAP8 to have a high diagnostic value for LUAD. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses further confirmed that GIMAP8 expression was an independent risk factor for OS in patients with LUAD. GO, KEGG and GSEA showed that immune responses were the most enriched terms. We identified six positively correlated CMKLR1, GIMAP7, GIMAP4, FLI1, GIMAP1, and GIMAP6) and five negatively correlated (PSMG3, MRPS15, UQCC2, COX5B, and ZNF593) coexpression genes, most of which are involved in immune effector processes. Specifically, GIMAP8 had a significant negative correlation with infiltrating cells, such as T, mast, plasma, and dendritic cells, and a positive association with CD4, M1, mast, and M2 cells in LUAD. GIMAP8 was significantly associated with important immune checkpoints.
Conclusion
GIMAP8 is a promising prognostic biomarker in LUAD and its expression was related to immune cell infiltration.
DNA Methylation-estimated Phenotypes, Telomere length, Aging and Risk of Intracranial Aneurysms: Evidence from genetic studies
Authors: Maimaiti Aierpati , Turhon Mirzat , Abulaiti Aimitaji , Abulizi Alimasi , Maihemuti Maierdanjiang , Cheng Xiaojiang , Aisha Maimaitili , Qin Hu , Wang Zengliang , Wang Yongxin
Published: October 2023

Background
The risk of intracranial aneurysm (IA) is increased in older population, suggesting a role for aging. To evaluate the association of genetic variants linked to DNA methylation-estimated phenotypes, telomere length, and aging, with the risk of IA by employing two-sample Mendelian randomization.
Methods
Sex-specific summary-level outcome data were extracted from the GWAS of IA, including 23 cohorts with a total of 5140 cases and 71934 controls. All the study participants were of European ancestry. To improve validity, five varying Mendelian randomization techniques were used in the analysis (MR-Egger, weighted median, inverse variance weighted, simple mode, and weighted mode).
Results
There was a negative causal relationship between Intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration and unruptured IA (P = 0.022272, OR = 0.9059 [95% CI, 0.83–0.99]). No causal effect existed between any other estimated methylation phenotype and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) (P > 0.05). There was a causal relationship between longevity and risk of developing aSAH (P = 0.020289, OR = 1.099528 [1.01–1.19]), with a 9.95% increase in the risk of disease for every 1-SD increase in age. In addition, each 1-SD rise in telomere length caused a 0.9% increase in the estimated proportion of granulocytes with DNA methylation (P = 0.002518, OR = 1.009041[1.003166,1.01495]) and a 55% increase in the intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration (P = 0.017597, OR = 1.55152[ 1.079562,1.551152]).
Conclusion
A negative causal relationship between intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration and IA suggests that an increase in intrinsic apparent age acceleration reduces the risk of IA. The underlying mechanisms and their potential to lower the prevalence of IA as an intervention target require further research.
Assessment of the mind simulation method on stuttering with the use of fMRI findings: a case report study
Authors: Kamarzarin Hamid , Ghorbani Firouzeh , Taghiloo Aidin , Firouzjah Razzagh Abedi , Beygi Monir , Barzegar Mojtaba
Published: October 2023

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of mind simulation method using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) findings on a case with stuttering.
Case presentation: The disorder was diagnosed in a 9-year-old girl using the Stuttering Assessment Tool (SSI-4) and clinical interview. The fMRI was taken from the patient once before the therapeutic intervention, and after two months of the mind simulation method. The activity level in the pre and post-treatment phases of the following areas was determined; the angular and supramarginal gyrus, limbic area, speech-related area, the superior temporal gyrus, and the Broca area in the pars opercularis in the frontal lobe.
Conclusions: The fMRI results showed that after the mind simulation treatment method, the blood oxygen level degree (BOLD) increased in the areas related to speech, memory, and learning, except for Broca's area, which indicates an increase in blood supply to the areas of interest, and consequently, the patient's clinical response to treatment was confirmed.
Socioeconomic factors affecting health expenditure in 2021: Iranian household budget survey
Authors: khoshshekan davoud , Hafezi Bahar , Rajabi Mostafa , mohammadpour saeed
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
The out-of-pocket (OOP) payments in Iran's health system and the impact of socioeconomic inequalities are huge burdens on the populace. This study investigates socioeconomic factors affecting household health expenditures in 2021.
Methods:
This is a community-based cross-sectional analytical study. Descriptive statistics were used for OPP payments in each subgroup (based on the explanatory variables). Also, inferential tests were used to examine the relationships between the explanatory variables and OOP payments. Multivariable generalized linear models (GLM) with a log link were used. The data was prepared in Excel spreadsheet software version 2019 and analyzed with Stata 14 software. The significance level in all tests was 0.05.
Results:
In this study, 37988 households were examined. More than 50% of the studied population (19,618 households) lived in the city. The heads of 84.63% of the households were male. The findings related to the gamma regression estimation showed that the income and expenses of health insurance have a significant positive but small effect on household health expenses. Also, the level of education of the head of the household had a significant positive effect on health expenditures.
Conclusion:
The study found that the average cost of healthcare expenditure is directly influenced positively by demographic factors related to household heads such as male gender, employment, higher education, being married, and households without seniors or children under five. Iran's health system should implement advance payments, stronger insurance infrastructures, and earmarked taxes to reduce the high share of OOP payments in its health financing system.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting high-burnout risk in nurses
Authors: Ning Meng , Chen Zengyu , Yang Jiaxin , Li Xuting , Yu Qiang , Huang Chongmei , Li Yamin , Tian Yusheng
Published: October 2023

Background
Nurses are one of the occupational populations that are most susceptible to burnout and high-burnout nurses experienced significantly impacts their physical and mental health, and even compromises patient safety and the quality of care. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and prevent burnout among nurses at an early stage. Developing a predictive model for high-burnout is essential for this purpose.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,750 Chinese nurses using an online survey. Data were collected by the 15-item Chinese Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (CMBI-GS) and self-administered questionnaires that included demographic, behavioral, health-related, and occupational variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and nomogram were used to identify the factor associated with high-burnout risk. Stata 16.0 software was used for data analysis.
Results
A total of 2,750 nurses from 23 provinces of mainland China were included, with 1,925 participants (70%) in a development set and 825 participants (30%) in a validation set. Workplace violence, shift work, working time per week, depression, stress, self-reported health, and drinking were significant contributors to high-burnout risk and a nomogram was developed using these factors. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated that the area under the curve (AUC) of the model was 0.808 in the development set and 0.790 in the validation set. For calibration analysis, the Hosmer-Lemeshow tests produced P values of 0.697 and 0.640 in the two sets, respectively. The nomogram demonstrated a high net benefit in the clinical decision curve in both sets.
Conclusion
This study has developed and validated a predictive nomogram for identifying high-burnout in nurses. The nomogram will assist nursing managers in identifying at-high-risk nurses, understanding related factors and implementing early interventions. Additionally, our study provides a tool for nurses to monitor their risk of high-burnout and overall mental health.
Difference and connection of clinical features and ANA patterns in new-onset SLE cross age groups
Authors: Gong Muxue , Li Ning , Sun Chao , Hong Dengxiao , Wang Xin , Ye Ming , Wang Tao , Li Zhijun , Xie Changhao
Published: October 2023

Background
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a common autoimmune disease, the clinical features of which will change a lot by onset age. To investigate the differences in autoantibodies, clinical features, and the relationship between antinuclear antibody (ANA) patterns, autoantibodies, and symptoms among different age groups.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 556 patients diagnosed with SLE. These patients were classified into three groups: Group 1 comprised individuals with juvenile-onset SLE (< 18 years); Group 2 included those with early-onset adult SLE (18–50 years); and Group 3 consisted of patients with late-onset SLE (≥ 50 years). We utilized a clustering heatmap to identify variations and associations of autoantibodies among the three groups. The Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to compare autoantibodies, clinical manifestations, and laboratory measurements across the groups. The Chi-square test and correlation heatmap were used to analyze the relationship of ANA patterns with autoantibodies and symptoms.
Results
Our findings revealed that patients with late-onset SLE had a significantly lower prevalence of anti-dsDNA (56.0% vs. 70.5%, P = 0.016) and anti-Sm (46.8% vs. 60.6%, P = 0.036) compared to those with early-onset adult SLE. At the time of initial diagnosis, the presence of anti-R52 antibody in patients with juvenile-onset SLE was higher than in those with early-onset adult SLE (25.7% vs. 54.6%, P = 0.004). Malar rash was more common as an initial symptom in patients with juvenile-onset SLE, while interstitial lung disease was more prevalent in those with late-onset SLE.
Conclusions
Late-onset SLE patients exhibited more severe kidney damage and a higher likelihood of infection. Early-onset adult SLE patients had a higher likelihood of elevated disease activity. Late-onset patients with a speckled ANA pattern were more prone to developing Raynaud's phenomenon. It is important for early-onset adult SLE patients with a homogeneous ANA pattern to be vigilant about the possibility of renal disorders and skin involvement. These novel findings contribute to the diagnosis and prevention of SLE.
The Impact of simulation-based learning on the Knowledge, Attitude and Performance of physiotherapy students on practice placement
Authors: Ishaku Timothy , Hunter Kirsty , Dairo Yetunde
Published: October 2023

Background Practice placement is a crucial part of pre-registration physiotherapy education worldwide. However, educators face challenges in finding practice sites for students to undertake placement. The use of simulation-based learning has the potential to replace some traditional placement thereby increasing placement capacity, but the benefits have not been fully explored. This study aims to assess how a simulation-based placement impacts students' knowledge, attitude, and performance when they undertake practice placements with external providers.Methods This study utilised an exploratory qualitative research design using a semi-structured interview to collect data from Year 2 students of a 2-year MSc pre-registration physiotherapy programme in the UK. To be eligible to be included in the study students must have participated in the 4-week simulation placement and have completed all their practice placements with external providers. All the interviews were conducted virtually in a 1:1 setting and recorded. The interviews lasted an average of 45 minutes. An inductive thematic analysis based on Braun and Clarke’s approach was utilised in this study.Results 12 students consented to participate in this study. The 56 codes generated from the data were categorised into 5 themes; (1) Working together, (2) Working with Service Users, (3) Professionalism, (4) Profession-specific practical skills and (5) Generic practical skills. Participants expressed unanimously, a positive view on working in groups and they consider that engaging with service users acting as patients enhanced the authenticity of the simulation placement. Subjective and objective assessments were considered important profession-specific skills gained during the simulation. Despite the benefits derived from the simulation placement, some participants felt that the learning experience would have been enriched by periodically changing the groups they were working in and having the opportunity for more 1:1 feedback throughout the four weeks.Conclusions Simulation-based learning offers a transformative educational experience for physiotherapy students and has the potential to better prepare students for successful integration into the dynamic healthcare environment. To enhance and improve the authenticity of this type of placement our recommendations include recruiting more service users, incorporating and encouraging more intervention-based elements as well as increasing the contact time of the practice educators and students.
The Delicate Dance of Intraoperative Anesthesia: Addressing Patient and Anesthesiologist Concerns
Authors: Modanat Zaid AL , AL-Husinat Lou'i , Mistarihi Bashar , Tashtoush Mohammad , Alsarabi Jood , Matalqa Rama , Mistarihi Hassan , Amir Mohammad Wasfi , Debajah Nawal , Rejoub Esra'a , Bereshy Raneem , Tawaha Mustafa , Talj Rana
Published: October 2023

The patient-anesthesiologist connection throughout the preoperative and intraoperative phases of surgical operations is crucial for effective outcomes. Different worries that each party has could affect this relationship. Patients' anxiety is a typical problem, which is made worse by worry about surgical risks and heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. While preoperative anxiety is covered in current research, anesthesiologists’ and patients' concerns are rarely compared. In this study, anesthesia-related worries were examined and contrasted between the two groups. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with 1858 volunteers who underwent anesthesia and 155 Jordanian anesthesiologists. The findings showed that whereas patients concentrated on pain, a drop in vital signs, and irregular heartbeats, anesthesiologists were worried about ventilation, intubation, and hypoxia. Patients placed more emphasis on personal experiences and social factors than technical issues and anesthesia complications compared with anesthesiologists. Therefore, patient education about anesthesia, and discussion about intra- and post- operative expectations and concerns are imperative to improve the surgical experience and the relationship between patients and anesthesiologists.
Gynecological health and uptake of gynecological care after domestic or sexual violence: a qualitative study in an emergency shelter
Authors: Iraola Elisabeth , Menard Jean-Pierre , Buresi Isabelle , Chariot Patrick
Published: October 2023

Background Domestic and sexual violence have been linked to adverse gynecological and obstetric outcomes. Survivors often find it difficult to verbalize such violence due to feelings of shame and guilt. Vulnerable or socially excluded women are frequently excluded from research, particularly qualitative studies on violence. This study aimed to characterize the perceived impact of domestic or sexual violence on the gynecological health and follow-up among women with complex social situations.Methods Between April 2022 and January 2023, we conducted 25 semi-structured interviews with women aged between 19 and 52, recruited in an emergency shelter in the Paris area. We analyzed the data following inductive thematic analysis methods.Results The majority of women described physical and psychological violence mainly in the domestic sphere. When questioned about domestic sexual violence, they denied its existence. However, as they were asked to qualify their intimate and sexual life, they described it as forced or coerced, without referring to it as sexual violence. The description of gynecological examination was close to the description of coerced marital sexuality which was not considered to be sexual violence. Gynecological examination, likely to trigger embarrassment and discomfort, was always perceived to be necessary and justified, and consent was implied.Conclusion We assumed that perceptions of domestic sexual violence and violence in gynaecological care are likely to vary according to a number of related factors. This study can help question the appropriateness of professional practices related to the prevention of violence against women and those of gynecological examination practices.
Lumped parameters models for the stability analysis of rotors supported on gas bearings
Authors: Colombo Federico , Lentini Luigi , Raparelli Terenziano , Trivella Andrea
Published: October 2023

In this paper different lumped parameters models are presented for the stability analysis of rotors supported on gas bearings. The analysis is carried out taking into account the damping and stiffness coefficients of journal bearings, calculated with the perturbation method. Lumped parameters models of different complexity are discussed for the description of the main rigid modes of the spindle. In case of symmetric systems, it is shown that the complexity of the model can be reduced by halving the number of the degrees of freedom. The analogy with the single mass approach is demonstrated. The considerations discussed in the paper are preliminary for the stability analysis of more complex systems, such as the ones with non-fixed bushes.
A UAV Aided Lightweight Target Information Collection and Detection Approach
Authors: Huang Meng , Li Hanming , Zhou Yina , Ma Ting , Su Jinshan , Zhou Haibo
Published: October 2023

With the resumption of the World Cup and various concerts, the number of heavily crowded scenarios grows intensely. In these cases, it poses new challenges to massive information collection and lightweight target detection. Fortunately, the booming development of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology provides a highly flexible and cost-effective solution in many scenarios. This paper proposes a UAV aided lightweight target information collection and detection approach, where the target information is carried to a terrestrial distributed platform by a UAV and then a fast target detection is implemented. Firstly, we implement a 3D trajectory optimization for the UAV by minimizing the information collection time. Secondly, we design a lightweight target detection algorithm based on UAV loadable ARM (Advanced RISC Machines) architecture edge computing device. Finally, a terrestrial distributed processing platform is established. To ensure the stability and reliability of the target detection system, each module is tested separately. Numerical simulations show that, with the target detection module deployed on the Jetson Xavier NX edge computing platform for testing, the proposed target detection approach can achieve a detection accuracy of 89.5$\%$ and 71FPS detection speed using GPU acceleration compared with state-of-the-art methods.
Converting raw scores to numerical grade equivalents: a data modelling study
Authors: McLachlan John C. , Davies Rhian , Sawdon Marina
Published: October 2023

Background Selected response items in assessments generate score outcomes which are not in themselves scaled to a grade equivalent. The commonly used scaling algorithm results in loss of information to students and may lead to inaccuracies in aggregating multiple assessments. Scaling to a pass mark alone does not take into account the impact on other grade boundaries, such as a “Merit” grade.Methods Working with score distributions from idealised medical student exams, we explored several methods for scaling raw scores to numerical grade equivalents. We aimed to devise methods which (a) offered the possibility of converting to both a cut score for “Pass” and one for “Merit” or “Distinction”; (b) reduced information loss. For ease of use and accessibility Excel spreadsheets were used for all calculations.Results Variants of the commonly employed algorithm were devised which (a) allow for use of a cut score for a “Distinction” or “Merit” grade, and (b) minimise the loss of information between raw and scaled scores, potentially reducing student concerns over the discrepancy between raw and scaled scores and giving them more accurate information on their performance against the exam.Conclusions Scaling so as to reduce information loss to students is likely to prove both beneficial and popular. Permitting the use of more than one cut score will improve the accuracy of outcomes, particularly for distinction decisions. Excel spreadsheets for each algorithm are available from the authors.
Feasibility of Using A Depth Camera Or Pressure Mat for Visual Feedback Balance Training with Functional Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Lim Derrick , Pei William , Lee Jae Woung , Musselman Kristin E. , Masani Kei
Published: October 2023

Individuals with incomplete spinal-cord injury/disease are at an increased risk of falling due to their impaired ability to maintain balance. Our research group has developed a closed-loop visual-feedback balance training (VFBT) system coupled with functional electrical stimulation (FES) for rehabilitation of standing balance (FES + VFBT system); however, clinical usage of this system is limited by the use of force plates, which are expensive and not easily accessible. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of a more affordable and accessible sensor such as a depth camera or pressure mat in place of the force plate. Ten able-bodied participants (7 males, 3 females) performed three sets of four different standing balance exercises using the FES + VFBT system with the force plate. A depth camera and pressure mat collected centre of mass and centre of pressure data passively, respectively. The depth camera showed higher Pearson's correlation (r > 98) and lower root mean squared error (RMSE < 10 mm) than the pressure mat (r > 0.82; RMSE < 4.5 mm) when compared with the force plate overall. Stimulation based on the depth camera showed lower RMSE than that based on the pressure mat relative to the FES + VFBT system. The depth camera shows potential as a replacement sensor to the force plate for providing feedback to the FES + VFBT system.
High strength and low hysteresis hydrogel based sensing control IoT system for both visible self-monitoring and remote monitoring of massage pressure
Authors: Chen Min , Wu Chengwei , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2023

Although massage has demonstrated therapeutic effects on stroke, Alzheimer's disease, etc., its efficacy and popularity are still limited due to ambiguity of pressure-therapy relationship and necessity of frequent visits of clinic. In response to this, herein, we proposed a sensing control Internet of Things (IoT) system. Based on Hofmeister effect between polyvinyl alcohol and ammonium phosphate, we developed a piezoresistive hydrogel with the compressive strength of 101.4 MPa and compressive energy loss coefficient of 15.7%. Using this hydrogel as pressure sensing component, we then assembled a wearable sensor that can quantify and transmit the massage pressure with insignificant energy dissipation. By integrating RGB LEDs arrays, the message pressure can be indicated by the color states of LEDs. Furthermore, the wearable sensors and LEDs were connected with a microcontroller (MCU) chip, an IoT chip and a cloud server to form a sensing control IoT system, which can monitor massage pressure both visibly and remotely.
Glutamine prevents high-fat diet-induced hepatic lipid accumulation in mice by modulating lipolysis and oxidative stress
Authors: Liao Xin , Zhang Yongjie , Yang Fengyuan , Liu Tong , Yang Kaiqiang , Zhou Zhuohua , Fu Yinxu , Fu Ting , Shen Yao , Lyu Jianxin , Zhao Qiongya
Published: October 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with metabolic dysfunction, characterized by excess fat storage in the liver. Several studies have indicated that glutamine could be closely associated with lipid metabolism disturbances because of its important role in intermediary metabolism. However, the effect of glutamine supplementation on NAFLD progression remains unclear. Here, we used a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD C57BL/6 mouse model, and glutamine was supplied in the drinking water at different time points for NAFLD prevention and reversal studies. A NAFLD prevention study was performed by feeding mice an HFD concomitant with glutamine treatment for 24 weeks, whereas the NAFLD reversal study was performed based on glutamine treatment for 13 weeks after feeding mice an HFD for 10 weeks. In the prevention study, glutamine treatment ameliorated serum lipid storage, hepatic lipid injury, and oxidative stress in HFD-induced obese mice, although glutamine supplementation did not affect body weight, glucose homeostasis, energy expenditure, and mitochondrial function. In the NAFLD reversal study, there were no noticeable changes in the basic physiological phenotype and hepatic lipid metabolism. In summary, glutamine might prevent, but not reverse, HFD-induced NAFLD in mice, suggesting that a cautious attitude is required regarding its use for NAFLD treatment.
Comparison of AI software tools for automated detection, quantification and categorization of pulmonary nodules in the HANSE LCS trial
Authors: Kondrashova Rimma , Klimeš Filip , Kaireit Till Frederik , May Katharina , Barkhausen Jörg , Stiebeler Susanne , Sperl Jonathan , Dettmer Sabine , Wacker Frank , Vogel-Claussen Jens
Published: October 2023

Purpose
To compare the performance of two AI-based software tools for detection, quantification and categorization of pulmonary nodules in a lung cancer screening (LCS) program in Northern Germany (HANSE-trial).
Method
946 low-dose baseline CT-examinations were analyzed by two AI software tools regarding lung nodule detection, quantification and categorization and compared to the final radiologist read. The relationship between detected nodule volumes by both software tools was assessed by Pearson correlation (r) and tested for significance using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The consistency of Lung-RADS classifications was evaluated by Cohen’s kappa (κ) and percentual agreement (PA).
Results
1032 (88%) and 782 (66%) of all (n = 1174, solid, semi-solid and ground-glass) lung nodules (volume ≥ 34mm3) were detected by Software tool 1 (S1) and Software tool 2 (S2), respectively. Although, the derived volumes of true positive nodules were strongly correlated (r > 0.95), the volume derived by S2 was significantly higher than by S1 (P < 0.0001, mean difference: 6mm3). Moderate PA (62%) between S1 and S2 was found in the assignment of Lung-RADS classification (κ = 0.45). The PA of Lung-RADS classification to final read was 75% and 55% for S1 and S2.
Conclusion
Participant management depends on the assigned Lung Imaging Reporting and Data System (Lung-RADS) category, which is based on reliable detection and volumetry of pulmonary nodules. Significant nodule volume differences between AI software tools lead to different Lung-RADS scores in 38% of cases, which may result in altered participant management. Therefore, high performance and agreement of accredited AI software tools are necessary for a future national LCS program.
Thermal stresses in an orthotropic hollow sphere under thermal shock: a unified generalized thermoelasticity
Authors: Soroush Mehdi , Soroush Mohammad
Published: October 2023

This paper deals with the thermoelasticity problem in an orthotropic hollow sphere. A unified governing equation are derived which includes the Classical, Lord-Shulman and Green-Lindsay coupled theories of thermoelasticity. Time-dependent thermal and mechanical boundary conditions are applied to the inner and outer surfaces of the hollow sphere and the problem is solved analytically using the finite Hankel transform. The inner surface of the sphere is subjected to a thermal shock in the form of a prescribed heat flux. Subsequently, the thermal response, radial displacement, as well as radial, tangential, and circumferential stresses of the sphere are determined. The influence of different orthotropic material properties and relaxation time values is investigated and presented graphically. The obtained results demonstrate excellent agreement with the existing literature.
Embosphere microspheres size for bronchial artery embolization in patients with hemoptysis caused by bronchiectasis: a retrospective comparative analysis of 500-750 versus 700-900 µm microspheres
Authors: Xu Hong-dou , Yang Liang , Hu Shi-bing
Published: October 2023

Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy outcomes of 500-750 versus 700-900 μm Embosphere microspheres for bronchial artery embolization (BAE) in patients with bronchiectasis-related hemoptysis.
Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on consecutive patients with bronchiectatic hemoptysis who were scheduled to undergo BAE treatment during a period from January 2018 to December 2022. The patients received BAE using microspheres of different sizes: group A patients were treated with 500-750 μm microspheres, and group B patients were treated with 700-900 μm microspheres. The cost of embolic microspheres (Chinese Yuan, CNY), duration of hospitalization, complications, and hemoptysis-free survival were compared between patients in group A and those in group B. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify predictors of recurrent hemoptysis.
Results: The final analysis included a total of 112 patients (49-77 years of age; 45 men). The patients were divided into two groups: group A (N=68), which received 500-750 μm Embosphere microspheres, and group B (N=44), which received 700-900 μm Embosphere microspheres. Except for the cost of embolic microspheres(group A,5314.8+ 1301.5 CNY; group B, 3644.5+1192.3 CNY; p=0.042), there were no statistically significant differences in duration of hospitalization (group A,7.2+1.4 days; group B, 8 +2.4days; p = 0.550), hemoptysis-free survival (group A, 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, 85.9%, 75.8%, 62.9%; group B, 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, 88.4%, 81.2%,59.4%;P=0.060), and complications(group A,26.5%; group B, 38.6%; p = 0.175) between the two groups. No major complications were observed. The multivariate analysis results revealed that the presence of cystic bronchiectasis (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.12–2.83; P =0.001) and systemic arterial-pulmonary shunts (SPSs) (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.10–2.72; P =0.028) were independent risk factors for recurrent bleeding.
Conclusions: For the treatment of BAE in patients with bronchiectasis-related hemoptysis, 500-750 μm diameter Embosphere microspheres have a similar efficacy and safety profile compared to 700-900 μm diameter Embosphere microspheres, especially for those without SPSs or cystic bronchiectasis. Furthermore, the utilization of large-sized (700-900 µm) Embosphere microspheres is associated with the reduced cost of an embolic agent.
Exosomal circPOLK promotes metastasis of NSCLC cells via regulating mir-1204/SOX8 axis
Authors: Li Yang-ling , Liu Ye-han , Cheng Jing , Wei Qiang-zhen , Lin Neng-ming , Zhang Chong
Published: October 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common subtype of lung cancer, and the prognosis of NSCLC patients is still poor particularly for patients with metastatic disease. Thus, extending the knowledge about the mechanism of metastasis is critical for NSCLC treatment. We demonstrated that hsa_circ_0073052 (circPOLK) was overexpressed in blood exosomes from cancer patients than those from healthy people. Furthermore, circPOLK was identified as a circular RNA and generated from host gene POLK by back-splicing in NSCLC cells. Although circPOLK knockdown could not affect the proliferation of NSCLC cells, circPOLK overexpression enhanced the migration/invasion and EMT progression of NSCLC cells in vitro. In vivo, NSCLC transfected with shcircPOLK exhibited less metastatic foci in nude mice as compared to those transfected with empty vector. Next, we found that circPOLK might function as miRNA sponge in NSCLC cells. Through bioinformatical prediction and RNA pull-down experiment, miR-1204 might be a potential target of circPOLK. Interestingly, serumal miR-1204 was an efficacious diagnostic and prognostic molecular for lung cancer patients and acted as a NSCLC suppressor on cancer progression. Furthermore, circPOLK promoted metastasis of NSCLC via regulating miR-1204. To further identify the potential target mRNA of circPOLK/miR-1204, a Venn diagram was generated showing that there were eight overlapping genes among circPOLK regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and potential downstream targets of miR-1204 by bioinformatical predictions. Furthermore, SOX8 was identified as a potential target of circPOLK/miR-1204. GO enrichment of circPOLK regulated DEGs showed that circPOLK might be involved in angiogenesis of NSCLC. Indeed, circPOLK secreted by NSCLC cells could promote angiogenesis. Our dada not only identifies a novel circPOLK/miR-1204/SOX8 signaling pathway, but also provides therapeutical strategies for NSCLC patients with metastatic disease.
Improved tactile speech robustness to background noise with a dual-path recurrent neural network noise-reduction strategy
Authors: Fletcher Mark D. , Perry Samuel W. , Thoidis Iordanis , Verschuur Carl A. , Goehring Tobias
Published: October 2023

Many hearing-impaired people struggle to understand speech in background noise, making noise robustness critical for hearing-assistive devices. Recently developed haptic hearing aids, which convert audio to vibration, can improve speech-in-noise performance for cochlear implant (CI) users and assist those unable to access hearing-assistive devices. Haptic hearing aids are typically worn on the body rather than the head, allowing additional space for batteries and microprocessors. This means they can deploy more sophisticated noise-reduction techniques. In the current study, we assessed whether a real-time-feasible noise-reduction strategy, using a dual-path recurrent neural network (DPRNN), improves the noise robustness of haptic hearing aids. Audio was converted to vibration on the wrist using a previously developed vocoder method, either with or without noise reduction. In 16 participants, tactile-only sentence identification was measured for speech in quiet and in multi-talker background noise. The DPRNN improved sentence identification in noise by 8.2% on average and did not affect performance in quiet. This suggests that advanced techniques like the DPRNN could substantially improve outcomes with haptic hearing aids. Low cost, non-invasive haptic devices could soon be an important supplement to hearing-assistive devices such as CIs or offer an alternative for people who are unable to access CI technology.
Serotyping, molecular typing, and vaccine protein screening for Riemerella anatipestifer: overcoming challenges in prevention and treatment
Authors: Li Yanlan , Zhu Xihui , Wang Zhiwei , Pang Zheyu , Si Zhenshu , Liu Cheng , Lu Jianbiao , Cao Shengliang , Ren Qinghai , Du Xusheng , Chen Duanduan , Li Xiaoting , Pei Lanying , Li Yubao
Published: October 2023

Background
Riemerella anatipestifer affects the duck farming industry worldwide, causing substantial economic losses. Disease prevention and treatment mainly rely on vaccines and antibiotics; however, the large number of serotypes and increasing resistance of R. anatipestifer have caused great difficulties in preventing and treating the infection.
Results
Serotyping and molecular typing of 51 strains of R. anatipestifer was performed. We predicted vaccine proteins based on pan-genome analysis and via cross-immune protection potential. Rabbits were immunized with antigens, and nine serotyped sera were prepared, which were submitted to peer experts for serotype identification; six serotypes with two unformed strains were identified. The results for the self-made serotypes were consistent with those obtained from the externally submitted strains. Pan-genome analysis was carried out on 51 strains of R. anatipestifer, and an open pan-genome set of 5,094 genes was constructed. COG annotation classification revealed that the core and non-core genomes had apparent differences in gene function. Of the 51 strains of R. anatipestifer isolates, 18 belonged to the 3 previously known serotypes, and the 33 represented newly identified serotypes, totaling 13 species. The clustering analysis demonstrated a significant genetic variation at the gene level among the housekeeping genes of R. anatipestifer. The pan-genome phylogenetic tree demonstrated that the 51 strains of R. anatipestifer could be roughly divided into 8 branches, each with a similar unique gene distribution and biological characteristics. The core gene tree showed that the 51 strains of R. anatipestifer could be divided into 6 major branches and that the strains from the same region had a clustered distribution in the evolutionary tree, forming multiple geographic subpopulations. This information served as a guide for dividing the strains into smaller geographic subgroups. Five genes of interest were screened from 1,116 core genomes that have the potential to serve as better cross-protective vaccine proteins.
Conclusions
Fills the gaps in the existing typing systems for Riemerella anatipestifer by utilizing a combination of serotyping, MLST typing, and pan-genome analysis, it provided valuable insights into the epidemiology, evolution, and pathogenesis of this bacterium. Our research not only enhances our understanding of Riemerella anatipestifer but also paves the way for the development of effective cross-protective vaccines.