bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIGURE 6 from The Cross-talk Between Intestinal Microbiota and MDSCs Fuels Colitis-associated Cancer Development
Authors: Ashkenazi-Preiser Hadas , Reuven Or , Uzan-Yulzari Atara , Komisarov Sharon , Cirkin Roy , Turjeman Sondra , Even Carmel , Twaik Nira , Ben-Meir Kerem , Mikula Ivan , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Meirow Yaron , Pikarsky Eli , Louzoun Yoram , Koren Omry , Baniyash Michal
Published: April 2024

Microbiota depletion in CAC-bearing mice reduces MDSCs levels and their suppressive function. Flow cytometry data showing the percentages of PMN-MDSCs (A) and M-MDSCs (B) in the blood, spleen, BM, and colon (n = 4–6). Cell percentages were calculated from the total cell populations. C, Flow cytometry analysis showing CD247 expression levels in splenic T cells (n = 6), calculated from CD3+ cells. Representative data from one of three independent experiments. D, Proliferation of activated T cells that were cocultured with M-MDSCs isolated from spleens of CAC or ABX-treated CAC mice at a ratio of 1:0.25. Representative histograms (left) and the summarized proliferation index (right) are presented (n = 4). E, Expression levels of CD247 in naïve T cells cocultured with PMN-MDSCs isolated from the spleen of CAC and ABX-treated CAC mice at a ratio of 1:1 is depicted. Representative histograms (left) and summarized MFI (right) are shown (n = 4). Data represent two independent experiments. Results are represented as mean ± SEM; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001.
FIGURE 2 from The Cross-talk Between Intestinal Microbiota and MDSCs Fuels Colitis-associated Cancer Development
Authors: Ashkenazi-Preiser Hadas , Reuven Or , Uzan-Yulzari Atara , Komisarov Sharon , Cirkin Roy , Turjeman Sondra , Even Carmel , Twaik Nira , Ben-Meir Kerem , Mikula Ivan , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Meirow Yaron , Pikarsky Eli , Louzoun Yoram , Koren Omry , Baniyash Michal
Published: April 2024

CAC-bearing mice display altered microbiota composition and diversity. A, Schematic presentation of different timepoints for fecal samples collection. Created with BioRender.com. PCoA plots showing microbiota composition analysis of control (B) and CAC (C) mice at the different timepoints during the experiment. D, α diversity measured using Faith's PD. E, Heat map based on Calour, depicting changes in bacteria between the groups throughout the experiment (overrepresented bacteria are marked with red arrows). White dashed lines separate the CAC and control groups at each timepoint. F, FITC-dextran fluorescence intensity in serum normalized to control mice (n = 4–7 per group). G, FISH staining of bacteria in colonic tissue sections of CAC-bearing mice compared with control mice. White arrows indicate bacterial penetration into the tissue. Asterisks indicate the lumen; Magnification: 10x, (n = 3). Magnification: 20x, Scale bar, 50 µm. Inserts, represent a magnification of the white dashed squares. Results are represented as mean ± SEM; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001.
IDENTIFICATION OF MUC1-C AS A TARGET FOR SUPPRESSING PROGRESSION OF HEAD AND NECK SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMAS
Authors: Nakashoji Ayako , Haratake Naoki , Bhattacharya Atrayee , Mao Weipu , Xu Kangjie , Wang Keyi , Daimon Tatsuaki , Ozawa Hiroki , Shigeta Keisuke , Fushimi Atsushi , Yamashita Nami , Morimoto Yoshihiro , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Saito Shin , Egloff Ann Marie , Uppaluri Ravindra , Long Mark D , Kufe Donald
Published: April 2024

The MUC1-C protein is aberrantly expressed in adenocarcinomas of epithelial barrier tissues and contributes to their progression. Less is known about involvement of MUC1-C in the pathogenesis of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Here, we report that the MUC1 gene is upregulated in advanced head and neck SCCs (HNSCCs). Studies of HNSCC cell lines demonstrate that the MUC1-C subunit regulates expression of (i) RIG-I and MDA5 pattern recognition receptors, (ii) STAT1 and interferon (IFN) regulatory factors, and (iii) downstream IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). MUC1-C integrates chronic activation of the STAT1 inflammatory pathway with induction of the ∆Np63 and SOX2 genes that are aberrantly expressed in HNSCCs. In extending those dependencies, we demonstrate that MUC1-C is necessary for NOTCH3 expression, self-renewal capacity and tumorigenicity. The findings that MUC1 associates with ∆Np63, SOX2 and NOTCH3 expression by scRNA-seq analysis further indicate that MUC1-C drives the HNSCC stem cell state and is a target for suppressing HNSCC progression.
Helicobacter pylori Diagnosis and Treatment in Africa: The First Lagos Consensus Statement of the African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group
Authors: Smith Stella I. , Schulz Christian , Ugiagbe Rose , Ndip Roland , Dieye Yakhya , Leja Marcis , Onyekwere Charles , Ndububa Dennis , Ajayi Abraham , Jolaiya Tolulope Funbi , Jaka Hyasinta , Setshedi Mashiko , Gunturu Revathi , Otegbayo Jesse Abiodun , Lahbabi-Amrani Naima , Arigbabu Anthony Oluwole , Kayamba Violet , Nashidengo Pueya Abdulrashid
Published: April 2024

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most prevalent type of bacterial infection. Current guidelines from different regions of the world neglect specific African conditions and requirements. The African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (AHMSG), founded in 2022, aimed to create an Africa-specific consensus report reflecting Africa-specific issues. Summary: Eighteen experts from nine African countries and two European delegates supported by nine African collaborators from eight other countries prepared statements on the most important African issues in four working groups: (1) epidemiology, (2) diagnosis, (3) indications and prevention, and (4) treatment. Limited resources, restricted access to medical systems, and underdeveloped diagnostic facilities differ from those of other regions. The results of the individual working groups were presented for the final consensus voting, which included all board members. Key Messages: There is a need for further studies on H. pylori prevalence in Africa, with diagnosis hinged on specific African situation. Treatment of H. pylori in the African setting should be based on accessibility and reimbursement, while indication and prevention should be defined in specific African countries.
Belgian Patients of the European Registry for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (ERHS-Be): Data, Scores, and Phenotypes since 2015
Authors: Heudens Stephanie , Sarkis Anne-Sophie , Daoud Mathieu , Daxhelet Mathilde , Benhadou Farida , Suppa Mariano , Nobile Laura , Karama Jalila , Njimi Hassane , White Jonathan M. , del Marmol Veronique
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, characterized by painful and recurrent lesions in apocrine gland-bearing skin areas. It is a heterogeneous disease, which makes assessment and data collection difficult. Questionnaires with detailed items, such as the Belgian European Registry for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (ERHS-Be), are useful to study HS and its associated comorbidities. The aim of this registry was to uncover new factors associated with HS and understand HS patients’ clinical profiles and efficacy of treatments. Material and Methods: The ERHS-Be registry is based on questionnaires, with sections for sociodemographic data, medical and HS history, clinical examination, and treatment plan. It allows identification of different clinical phenotypes and automatic calculation of severity scores. Results: At present, 606 patients are included in the ERHS-Be (67% women, 33% men). The mean age at the first visit is 38.5 years. Tobacco use is present in 72.6% of patients. A family history of HS is noted in 42% of patients. Comorbidities are documented in this cohort: depression is present in 43.8% of patients, arthritis in 27.8%, obesity in 31.5%, hypertension in 10.6%, diabetes mellitus in 6.4%, and dyslipidemia in 12.4%. Moreover, 7.7% of patients suffer from IBD and 27.4% have a pilonidal sinus. History of severe acne is found in 32.1% of patients and psoriasis in 9.3%. Thirteen percent of women in our cohort suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome. Severity of disease is quantified in 533 patients: for instance, Hurley I, II, and III scores proportions are, respectively, 32.3%, 52.7%, and 15%, while the mean IHS4 score is 5.2. This registry also enables determination of relative phenotype proportions in our cohort, according to different classifications. Conclusion: The ERHS-Be questionnaires allow systematic and larger data collection, including detailed comorbidities, phenotypes, and severity of disease. Analysis of this large database will contribute to a better understanding and management of HS, at a time where new therapeutic options are becoming available.
Sestrinski problemi nakon operacije slijepog crijeva kod djece
Authors: Podrug Ana Marija , Šimunović-Erpušina Tanja
Published: April 2024

Operacija slijepog crijeva jedan je od najčešćih kirurških zahvata u dječjoj populaciji. Upala slijepog crijeva kod djece često se manifestira abdominalnom boli, mučninom, povraćanjem i povišenom temperaturom. Planovi zdravstvene njege za svako dijete izrađuju se posebno na temelju utvrđenih potreba. Problemi s kojima se djeca susreću nakon operacije slijepog crijeva zahtijevaju pažljivu procjenu i skrb medicinskih sestara. Sestrinske dijagnoze obuhvaćaju analizu simptoma i rizika, dok su sestrinske intervencije usmjerene na olakšavanje ovih problema. Sestrinsko-medicinski problemi zahtijevaju pravodobnu procjenu i intervencije da bi se spriječile ozbiljne posljedice. Izuzetno je važno da medicinska sestra na vrijeme uoči nastale komplikacije kako bi se one mogle rješavati. Zdravstvena skrb kod otpusta djeteta usmjerena je na odmor, prehranu, izbjegavanje fizičkih aktivnosti i praćenje simptoma. Uloga medicinske sestre ključna je u postoperativnom razdoblju za podršku, prevenciju problema i pružanje njege radi uspješna djetetova oporavka.
Dissociation of Hypertension and Renal Damage After Cessation of High-Salt Diet in Dahl Rats
Authors: Arkhipov Sergey N. , Liao Tang-Dong , Potter D’Anna L. , Bobbitt Kevin R. , Ivanov Veniamin , Ortiz Pablo A. , Pavlov Tengis S.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Every year, thousands of patients with hypertension reduce salt consumption in an effort to control their blood pressure. However, hypertension has a self-sustaining character in a significant part of the population. We hypothesized that chronic hypertension leads to irreversible renal damage that remains after removing the trigger, causing an elevation of the initial blood pressure.

METHODS:

Dahl salt-sensitive rat model was used for chronic, continuous observation of blood pressure. Rats were fed a high salt diet to induce hypertension, and then the diet was switched back to normal sodium content.

RESULTS:

We found that developed hypertension was irreversible by salt cessation: after a short period of reduction, blood pressure grew even higher than in the high-salt phase. Notably, the self-sustaining phase of hypertension was sensitive to benzamil treatment due to sustaining epithelial sodium channel hyperactivity, as shown with patch-clamp analysis. Glomerular damage and proteinuria were also irreversible. In contrast, some mechanisms, contributing to the development of salt-sensitive hypertension, normalized after salt restriction. Thus, flow cytometry demonstrated that dietary salt reduction in hypertensive animals decreased the number of total CD45
+
, CD3
+
CD4
+
, and CD3
+
CD8
+
cells in renal tissues. Also, we found tubular recovery and improvement of glomerular filtration rate in the postsalt period versus a high-salt diet.

CONCLUSIONS:

Based on earlier publications and current data, poor response to salt restriction is due to the differential contribution of the factors recognized in the developmental phase of hypertension. We suggest that proteinuria or electrolyte transport can be prioritized over therapeutic targets of inflammatory response.
Few sex differences in regional gray matter volume growth trajectories across early childhood
Authors: Long Madison , Ostertag Curtis , Reynolds Jess E. , Zheng Jing , Landman Bennett , Huo Yuankai , Forkert Nils D. , Lebel Catherine
Published: April 2024

Sex-specific developmental differences in brain structure have been documented in older children and adolescents, with females generally showing smaller overall brain volumes and earlier peak ages than males. However, sex differences in gray matter structural development in early childhood are less studied. We characterized sex-specific trajectories of gray matter volume development in children aged 2–8 years. We acquired anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain at the Alberta Children's Hospital in 123 typically developing children. Most children were scanned multiple times, for a total of 393 scans (mean = 3.2 scans/subject). We segmented T1-weighted structural MRI with MaCRUISE to define 116 regions and measured both absolute volumes (mm3) and proportional volumes (percent of intracranial volume). We characterized growth trajectories of gray matter volume for these brain regions between 2 and 8 years using mixed-effects models, showing volume increases, with most posterior and temporo-parietal regions peaking before 8 years. We found widespread main effects of sex, with males having larger volumes in 86% of brain regions. However, there were no significant sex differences in trajectories (age or age2 terms) for absolute volume. Proportional volumes of the right occipital fusiform gyrus and left medial postcentral gyrus showed significant age-by-sex interactions where females had steeper volume decreases than males. This study also confirms regional patterns observed in previous studies of older children, such as posterior-to-anterior timing of brain maturation. These results provide a comprehensive picture of gray matter volume development across early childhood, and suggest that sex differences do not emerge until later in development.
Post-Covid Syndrome: from Biology to Neuropsychology
Authors: Karchevskaya Anna Е. , Vologdina Yana O. , Zaitsev Oleg S. , Maksakova Olga А.
Published: April 2024

Background. Postcovid syndrome or Long COVID is a new term introduced into medical practice by WHO after the COVID -19 pandemic. Long COVID affects patients who have recovered from COVID -19. Objectives. The purpose of this work is to understand cognitive deficits caused by COVID-19 from the point of view of neuropsychology and pathophysiology. Data Sources. Literature search was conducted in the following electronic databases: Pubmed, Google.scholar and Scopus databases. 63 articles were selected. Keywords for the literature review included “neuropsychiatry/neuropsychology”, “pathophysiology”, “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”. Methods. Review and analysis of COVID-19 studies in terms of its relation to the appearance of cognitive deficits in patients. Results. The SARS-CoV-2 virus enters the human body and affects the structures of the brain. Some of the symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, problems with concentration and memory, loss or change of taste and smell, pain in muscles and joints as well as sleep disorders are preserved in post-COVID period and may be explained by the peculiarity of the virus interaction with central nervous system. Neuropsychological analysis of observed disorders based on the theory of three functional blocks of the brain by A. R. Luria helps to identify the affected zones of the functional systems of higher mental functions (HMF). Neuropsychological assessment makes it possible to plan rehabilitation programme or cognitive training, and help doctor in choosing an adequate drug therapy to compensate for cognitive impairment. Conclusions. SARS-CoV-2 causes damage to brain structures such as the brainstem, limbic system, prefrontal cortex and olfactory tract, which explains the observed symptoms. Neuropsychological diagnostics makes it possible to identify the impaired component of the HMF in patients with post-COVID syndrome, to plan an adequate rehabilitation programme, as well as to choose drug therapy.
Psychometric Battery “Multifactorial Investigation of Neuropsychological Development” (MIND)
Authors: Khokhlov Nikita A.
Published: April 2024

Background. Russian neuropsychology lacks a standardised set of methods for quantifying the development of higher mental functions (HMF) from pre-school to high school age. Its application could improve the objectivity of neuropsychological diagnosis. Objectives. The study seeks 1) to create a psychometric battery of methods for multifactorial investigation of neuropsychological development (MIND) in children and adolescents aged 4–17; 2) to describe the trajectories of age-related development of HMF. Study Participants. 860 participants aged 4–17 (M = 10; SD = 3.7), including 558 boys and 302 girls took part in the study. Methods. Neuropsychological assessment was performed using 40 techniques and measuring 171 variables. These variables were standardised and age-adjusted. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was used to find latent variables. The resulting model was applied to age-unadjusted variables to identify developmental trajectories. Results. A model was built with 106 indicators and 21 factors. Four variables were used to construct an additional verbal-logical thinking scale. The general level of development can be reliably measured using 50 variables. These scales are described as age dependent. Conclusions. The MIND psychometric battery for neuropsychological assessment of children and adolescents aged 4–17 has been created. The quantitative evaluation is based on a mathematical description of the age-related development of HMF components.
On the identity of the enigmatic millipede genus Inodesmus Cook, 1896 (Polydesmida: Haplodesmidae)
Authors: ROMERO-RINCON JUAN , ALVEAR SANTIAGO
Published: April 2024

The identity of Inodesmus Cook, 1896 and its single species, Inodesmus jamaicensis Cook, 1896, has been a mystery for decades. This species was described from a Jamaican cave but not only did the repository of the type material remain unknown, but also the types were believed to be lost. Here we redescribe the species and designate a lectotype and a paralectotype from the newly found type material. The genus Agathodesmus Silvestri, 1910 from Australia and New Caledonia is presented as a new junior subjective synonym of Inodesmus. Besides I. jamaicensis, the genus Inodesmus includes 23 species: I. adelphus (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. aenigmaticus (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. agnus (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. anici (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. baccatus (Carl, 1926) comb. nov.; I. bonang (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. bucculentus (Jeekel, 1986) comb. nov.; I. carorum (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. chandleri (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. gayundah (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. hahnensis (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. johnsi (Mesibov, 2009) comb. nov.; I. kerensis (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. kirrama (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. millaa (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. morwellensis (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. parapholeus (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. quintanus (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. sagma (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. steeli (Silvestri, 1910) comb. nov.; I. summus (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov.; I. urbanus (Romero-Rincon & Douch, 2024) comb. nov.; I. yuccabinensis (Mesibov, 2013) comb. nov. The bizarre disjunct distribution of Inodesmus is briefly discussed.
Two new species of Nogunius Jałoszyński in Taiwan (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: April 2024

The genus Nogunius Jałoszyński so far includes five species distributed exclusively in Japan: N. aogashimanus Jałoszyński (Aogashima, Izu Islands), N. fukuuzanus Jałoszyński (Okinawa Island), N. kerri Jałoszyński (Ishigaki Island), N. sokani Jałoszyński (Okinawa Island), and N. sagaensis Jałoszyński & Nomura (Kyushu). A discovery of Nogunius in Taiwan is reported in the present study, with descriptions of two species: N. microtaiwanensis sp. n., and N. infuscus sp. n.
A revision of the genus Thaumantis Hübner, [1826] from China (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
Authors: LI HUA-ZHAO , LIU ZHE , LI JIA-LING , XIE TIAN , XU XIANG-XIN
Published: April 2024

N/A
4. Nominal morphology
Authors: Gębski Wiktor
Published: April 2024

This chapter outlines the nominal morphology of Jewish Gabes. Given its general similarity to other dialects, this investigation seeks to present the collected data comprehensively. After some theoretical preliminaries on the characteristics of the nominal morphology of Jewish Gabes, all attested patterns of singular nouns are presented, followed by all attested patterns of plurals.
5. Syntax of nouns
Authors: Gębski Wiktor
Published: April 2024

This chapter examines various phenomena observed in the syntax of nouns in Jewish Gabes, namely, the system of definiteness, genitive constructions, and grammatical concord. Given the absence of a comparative description of North African Arabic syntax, the selection of topics is informed by Kristen Brustad's (2000) work on the syntax of spoken Arabic, albeit with several modifications. A significant departure lies in the methodology employed in this chapter, specifically the adoption of a typological and historical perspective in approaching the syntax of Jewish Gabes. The emphasis on comparative analysis is particularly crucial in this chapter, as insights from neighbouring dialects can offer valuable information for understanding the evolution of syntax in Jewish Gabes.
Anthropogenic Changes in Interannual-to-Decadal Climate Variability in CMIP6 Multiensemble Simulations
Authors: Coquereau Arthur , Sévellec Florian , Huck Thierry , Hirschi Joël J.-M. , Hochet Antoine
Published: April 2024

As well as having an impact on the background state of the climate, global warming due to human activities could affect its natural oscillations and internal variability. In this study, we use four initial-condition ensembles from the CMIP6 framework to investigate the potential evolution of internal climate variability under different warming pathways for the twenty-first century. Our results suggest significant changes in natural climate variability and point to two distinct regimes driving these changes. The first is a decrease in internal variability of surface air temperature at high latitudes and all frequencies, associated with a poleward shift and the gradual disappearance of sea ice edges, which we show to be an important component of internal variability. The second is an intensification of the interannual variability of surface air temperature and precipitation at low latitudes, which appears to be associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). This second regime is particularly alarming because it may contribute to making the climate more unstable and less predictable, with a significant impact on human societies and ecosystems.
Pharmacy Prescription Assistance Program: Evaluation of a Health System Retail Model for Outpatients
Authors: Rockett Hope , Wilkinson Samaneh Tavalali , Daniel Sarah
Published: April 2024

Background: Access to essential medications remains a challenge, especially among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. In 2021, 18 million U.S. adults struggled to afford prescribed medications, a problem exacerbated by the prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and mental health disorders. The 340B Drug Pricing Program has enabled eligible healthcare organizations to purchase drugs at reduced prices, thus enhancing medication accessibility for financially constrained patients. This study explores the impact of the Retail Pharmacy Prescription Assistance Program within a 340B-eligible health system in addressing this issue. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a Retail Pharmacy Prescription Assistance Program in increasing access to essential medications and reducing financial burden for eligible outpatients within a 340B-eligible health system. Methods: This exploratory study was conducted at a 340B-eligible academic medical center and focused on the implementation of the Retail Pharmacy Prescription Assistance Program (RPPA Program). Eligible patients, already enrolled in the health system’s financial assistance program, were identified, and assessed for additional eligibility for the RPPA Program, ensuring prescriptions were written by internal providers and that patients did not have access to other financial assistance resources. Data collected included patient demographics, medication history, dispensed prescriptions, out-of-pocket patient savings, and pharmacist interventions. Results: During the study, 156 patients were enrolled. About half (51%; n = 79) did not utilize its services due to reasons such as the absence of active prescriptions, prescriptions from external providers, or existing coverage by the patients’ insurance. Of the 563 prescriptions clinically evaluated, 72% (n = 407) were dispensed free of charge to 77 patients, resulting in $13,945 in out-of-pocket patient savings. Of the total prescriptions assessed, 28% (n = 156) were not included on the RPPA Program formulary and were not changed to a RPPA formulary alternative for various reasons, such as a formulary alternative was not available, or the patient opted not to switch to formulary alternatives. Conclusions: The RPPA Program proved effective in reducing financial barriers to accessing essential outpatient medications. While it yielded positive outcomes, the program’s benefit was constrained to a limited patient demographic, underscoring the imperative to expand identification and engagement strategies to include a broader patient population.
Evaluating Technical and Scale Efficiencies of Cooperative Banks in Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Zaman Aadil Ummar , Khan Nisar Ahmad
Published: April 2024

This article examines the performance of cooperative banks in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) during 2005–2018. We use data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology to obtain technical and scale efficiency scores for each bank over the years. Income-based approach has been employed while selecting our inputs and outputs. Our results indicate a large asymmetry as far as the performance across different banks is concerned. The dominant source of the technical inefficiency in the cooperative banks is found to be scale related. Further, the results from returns to scale suggest that majority of the cooperative banks in J&K are operating on the zone of decreasing returns to scale.
A longitudinal study on the effects of social support on self-stigma, psychiatric symptoms, and personal and social functioning in community patients with severe mental illnesses in China
Authors: Ma Ning , Chen Runzi , Bai Yu , Zhang Wufang , Chen Zecong , Zhou Jun , Cao Yajie , Wen Liping , Chen Xiaobing , Zhan Xuhui , Fan Yunge
Published: April 2024

Background:

Few studies have examined whether social support contributes to better consequences among chronic patients with severe mental illnesses (SMI) in their community recovery stage and whether self-stigma would be a mechanism through which social support impacts psychiatric symptoms and personal and social functioning.

Aims:

This study aimed to examine prospective associations of social support with long-term self-stigma, psychiatric symptoms, and personal and social functioning, and to investigate whether self-stigma would mediate the associations of social support with psychiatric symptoms and personal and social functioning among patients with SMI.

Methods:

A total of 312 persons with SMI (schizophrenia and bipolar disorder) in their community recovery stage participated in the study. Social support, self-stigma, psychiatric symptoms, and personal and social functioning were evaluated at baseline. The follow-up assessment was conducted at 6 months with the baseline measures except for social support. Hierarchical linear regression and mediation analysis were performed.

Results:

The results showed that baseline social support predicted decreases in stigma (β = −.115, p = .029) and psychiatric symptoms (β = −.193, p < .001), and increases in personal and social functioning (β = .134, p = .008) over 6 months, after adjusting for relevant covariates. Stigma at 6 months partially mediated the association between baseline social support and 6-month psychiatric symptoms (indirect effect: β = −.043, CI [−0.074, −0.018]). Stigma and psychiatric symptoms at 6 months together mediated the association between baseline social support and 6-month personal and social functioning (indirect effect: β = .084, 95% CI [0.029, 0.143]).

Conclusion:

It is necessary to provide comprehensive social support services and stigma reduction interventions at the community level to improve the prognosis of SMI.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Developing Palate in Mice
Authors: Wang B. , Zhang Z. , Zhao J. , Ma Y. , Wang Y. , Yin N. , Song T.
Published: April 2024

The intricate formation of the palate involves a series of complex events, yet its mechanistic basis remains uncertain. To explore major cell populations in the palate and their roles during development, we constructed a spatiotemporal transcription landscape of palatal cells. Palate samples from C57BL/6 J mice at embryonic days 12.5 (E12.5), 14.5 (E14.5), and 16.5 (E16.5) underwent single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to identify distinct cell subsets. In addition, spatial enhanced resolution omics-sequencing (stereo-seq) was used to characterize the spatial distribution of these subsets. Integrating scRNA-seq and stereo-seq with CellTrek annotated mesenchymal and epithelial cellular components of the palate during development. Furthermore, cellular communication networks between these cell subpopulations were analyzed to discover intercellular signaling during palate development. From the analysis of the middle palate, both mesenchymal and epithelial populations were spatially segregated into 3 domains. The middle palate mesenchymal subpopulations were associated with tooth formation, ossification, and tissue remodeling, with initial state cell populations located proximal to the dental lamina. The nasal epithelium of the palatal shelf exhibited richer humoral immune responses than the oral side. Specific enrichment of Tgfβ3 and Pthlh signals in the midline epithelial seam at E14.5 suggested a role in epithelial–mesenchymal transition. In summary, this study provides high-resolution transcriptomic information, contributing to a deeper mechanistic understanding of palate biology and pathophysiology.
A case of surgical site infection with severe spondylitis caused by Streptococcus gordonii in an adult healthy woman: how to apply medico-legal method to deny malpractice hypothesis in suspected healthcare-associated infection
Authors: Urso Rocco , Del Prete Sossio , D’Antonio Gianpiero , Sorace Letizia , Albore Marco , Bolino Giorgio
Published: April 2024

We describe a rare case of severe primary spondylitis caused by Streptococcus gordonii in a 45-year-old immunocompetent woman with no relevant comorbidities. The surgical site infection arose after a L4–L5 microdiscectomy and resulted in severe clinical disability. Allegations of possible negligence as the cause prompted a forensic review to clarify the original source and transmission of this uncommon pathogen, which dismissed its cause as due to malpractice during treatment.
Well-Being, Harmony, and Deference: Toward a Confucian Case for Empowered Mini-Publics
Authors: Tong Zhichao
Published: April 2024

Nearly all debates within contemporary Confucian political theory regarding the full or partial adoption of democracy have understood democracy as electoral representative democracy. Almost no attention has then been paid to how Confucian democracy or Confucian meritocracy would relate to randomly selected deliberative bodies increasingly considered by democratic theorists amid an ongoing reconceptualization of democracy. In this article, I explore such a relationship by presenting a Confucian case for empowered mini-publics. My central claim is that the adoption of this institution can be interpreted in Confucian terms and embraced by Confucian democrats as well as Confucian meritocrats, on the basis of several key Confucian values which they have already employed in defending their respective political proposals. By making this claim, I also demonstrate that one of central institutional innovations originally proposed to alleviate ills facing Western liberal democracies has a broader application and appeal than it has been assumed.
National Assimilation and/or Cosmopolitan Transnationalism? Impending Transnationalism among the Upwardly Mobile Children of Refugees
Authors: Karimi Aryan , Thompson Sara , Bucerius Sandra M
Published: April 2024

In sociology of migration, assimilation theory anticipates second-generations’ socio-economic mobility into the mainstream. In contrast, the concept of transnationalism predicts second-generations’ simultaneous belonging to the origin and destination countries. We draw on 118 qualitative interviews with second-generation Somali-Canadians whose parents were refugees to assess which of these perspectives best explains our participants’ experiences. We explore educational and occupational attainments and transnational practices. Our data show upward mobility and an absence of contemporary transnational practices. Yet, we find that our participants’ refugee background impacts their transnationalism; their parents’ forced departures as refugees and the ongoing violence in their origin-country lead to second-generation Somali-Canadians’ lack of transnationalism. Many, however, emphasize their desire to discover their origin-country at some point in the future. As such, to contribute to the emerging literature on second-generations with refugee parents, we argue that refugee background seems to push transnationalism into the future for our study participants.
Examining How School Resources Contribute to Income Achievement Disparities Across Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Hwang Dabin , Coley Rebekah Levine
Published: April 2024

Extending work documenting historical resource inequities across U.S. schools, we examined how school financial and social resources mediate the relationship between family income and student achievement, and tested how these associations varied by race and ethnicity. Merging administrative school data sources to a nationally representative sample of U.S. elementary students, and employing structural equation modeling, we found that family income selected all children into more highly socially resourced schools, with significantly stronger effects for White children relative to students of color. Contrary to expectations, school financial and social resources were not significantly associated overall with achievement.
Duration of untreated psychosis and associated sociodemographic and clinical factors in first-episode psychosis: A study from Eastern Nepal
Authors: Limbu Suren , Nepal Suraj , Mishra Sanjeev Kumar
Published: April 2024

Objective

Duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) is considered an important factor in outcome. Individual, familial and illness factors may prolong DUP. Little data on this issue is available from the country of Nepal. The purpose of the present study was to assess DUP in patients with first-episode psychosis and identify associations with patients’ sociodemographic and clinical factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in the department of psychiatry at Tertiary Hospital in the Eastern part of Nepal. Eighty-six patients were enrolled. ICD-10 was used to make the diagnosis. The Nottingham Onset Schedule-DUP version (NOS-DUP) was used to assess DUP. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess patients’ clinical symptoms.

Results

The mean (SD) DUP was 21.4 (42.1) months and median DUP was 3.0 months (IQR = 23.5). Participants from mountainous regions, those who were unemployed, having an insidious onset of illness, and patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia had significantly longer DUP ( P < .005). Duration of untreated psychosis was also positively correlated with negative symptoms (r = .42, P < .001) and total PANSS score (r = .42, P < .001).

Conclusion

Duration of untreated psychosis in first-episode psychotic patients was relatively long (compared to studies in other countries) and was found to be positively associated with living in mountainous regions of Nepal, being unemployed, having an insidious onset of illness, and having a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Programs and educational efforts are needed to ensure early treatment of patients with first-episode psychosis, especially in the mountainous rural areas of Nepal.
Distributed interval estimation for sensor networks with energy-limited attacks and stochastic communication protocols
Authors: Li Xin , Gong Ruiqi , Zhu Liangkuan
Published: April 2024

In this paper, the problem of the distributed interval estimation is investigated for wireless sensor networks under the energy-limited attack and the stochastic communication protocol (SCP). A model with randomness and restrictions is constructed to describe the energy-limited attack, which is considered to occur in two positions, one is the transmission process of sensors and local estimators (LEs), and another is the transmission process of LEs and their neighbor nodes. Furthermore, to mitigate the communication burden, the SCP is adopted to distribute network access rights to sensor nodes. All in all, the objective of this paper is to develop a distributed interval estimator (DIE) which can use local and neighbor information to generate an interval that covers all potential estimation states when SCP, bounded noises, and energy-limited attacks are all present at the same time. To achieve this, the positive system theory and the stability analysis theory are used to obtain some sufficient conditions for the error dynamic system to be positive system and stable, and the needed DIE gains are achieved by solving the linear matrix inequality. Finally, an example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the offered method.
ALTASN: A few-shot learning fault diagnosis method for rotating machinery of unmanned surface vehicles based on attention mechanism
Authors: Cao Yu , Chen Yongyi , Zhang Dan , Abdulaal Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Rotating machinery is one of the principal power equipment of unmanned surface vehicles (UVs). Considering the complex and harsh offshore working conditions of UVs, the health status of rotating machinery is highly to be affected, but it is often difficult to obtain enough fault samples. Accordingly, limited data fault diagnosis of rotating machinery holds great practical significance to increase the resilience and security of UVs. For limited data fault diagnosis, a novel few-shot learning model based on attention mechanism called adaptive long-term attention siamese network (ALTASN) is proposed. First, an efficient channel attention mechanism is combined with adaptive convolutional kernels to improve the spatial feature extraction capabilities of the convolutional neural network (CNN). To capture and assign higher weights to important long-term dependent information, long-term attention is introduced to improve the ability of long short-term memory networks (LSTM) temporal feature extraction. Finally, the siamese network is introduced to compare the features of different sample pairs to obtain the final fault type. In the case of limited data, the fault diagnosis performance and generalization ability of the proposed ALTASN are better compared with existing results. Experiments are carried out on the actual three-phase asynchronous motor experiment platform at the Zhejiang University of Technology to verify the effectiveness and generalization of the proposed method.
Psychometric Properties of the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale in Portuguese Pregnant Women
Authors: Nunes Maria Arminda , Melnyk Bernadette Mazurek , Almeida Sofia , Cardoso Alexandrina , Vieira Margarida
Published: April 2024

Background:

Pregnancy provides a privileged and opportune moment to implement interventions promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and significantly improving perinatal outcomes. The Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale (HLBES) can be used to assess health promoting behaviors, such as diet, physical activity, and mental health.

Purpose:

This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the HLBES in Portuguese pregnant women.

Methods:

A methodological study was conducted on a convenience sample of 192 pregnant women receiving prenatal care. After cross-cultural adaptation, an exploratory factor analysis and internal consistency assessment were carried out to evaluate the psychometric properties of the scale. Data collected included the Healthy Lifestyle Beliefs Scale to assess the HLBES’ criterion validity.

Results:

Exploratory factor analysis with Varimax rotation yielded 2 subscales that explained 45.23% of the total variance. The scale revealed an overall internal consistency of 0.78 and a good criterion validity with the Healthy Lifestyle Beliefs Scale ( r = 0.65, P < .01).

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that the HLBES is an instrument for reporting healthy lifestyle behaviors in Portuguese pregnant women; however, further studies are recommended. This scale can be used to not only describe healthy lifestyle behaviors in pregnant women but also to determine the effects of health promoting interventions.
Establishment of animal models and behavioral studies for autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Jiao Daiyan , Xu Yingkai , Tian Fei , Zhou Yaqing , Chen Dong , Wang Yujue
Published: April 2024

In recent years, the incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased, but the etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear. In this narrative review, we review and systematically summarize the methods used to construct animal models to study ASD and the related behavioral studies based on recent literature. Utilization of various ASD animal models can complement research on the etiology, pathogenesis, and core behaviors of ASD, providing information and a foundation for further basic research and clinical treatment of ASD.
Impact Assessment and Damage Fee Development for Pavement Utility Cuts Using Functional and Structural Field Data
Authors: Dunn Sharlan Montgomery , Ghosh Debaroti , Marshall Melissa
Published: April 2024

The objectives of this study were: 1) to provide transparency of a recent pavement utility cut impact study which informed the adoption of a pavement utility cut fee in Davis, California; and 2) to present an additional methodology for assessing pavement damage using field data referenced to pavement condition. A total of 24 test sites were selected to represent all functional classifications across the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) spectrum. Functional and structural field data were collected and analyzed. Of the 24 test sites, 67% exhibited both functional and structural damage with 96% exhibiting at least one form of damage. The average PCI reduction resulting from utility cuts was 5.1 points and the corresponding percent reduction in pavement service life was 6%. Of the test sites, 63% exhibited damage 2 ft from the edge of the patch, thus indicating that the zone of influence extends past the current restoration area. The statistical analyses indicated that the pavement utility cuts caused significant damage and supported a tiered utility cut fee structure based on functional classification and PCI. The resulting fee schedule is based on 2022 material and construction cost estimates; consequently, implementation including an annual adjustment for inflation is recommended. Since the negative impact of utility cuts is amplified when there are multiple or large cuts on the same street, and treatments are typically carried out across entire management sections, a full-recovery fee at a threshold of 10% of the management section area is appropriate. Example fee calculations were provided.
Quasi-Stochastic Departure Metering Model Considering Non-Deterministic Taxi Time, Standard Instrument Departure Track Time, and a New Delay–Conflict Relationship
Authors: Chandra Aitichya , Choubey Nipun , Verma Ashish , Sooraj KP
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a quasi-stochastic mixed integer programming model to determine the optimal flight departure schedule and sequence at airports. The proposed formulation addresses two key gaps in the existing departure metering strategies: (i) the variability and effects of the standard instrument departure (SID) procedure and (ii) the prospect of en route conflicts because of departure delays. The variability and effects of the SID procedure are captured through a non-deterministic parameter defined as the SID track time. The probability of en route conflicts because of departure delay is estimated based on a new delay–conflict relationship. Data used for implementation and validation of the model was collected from operations on Runway 7 of Chennai International Airport, India. Overall results indicate that the proposed departure metering model can act as a pre-emptive departure delay strategy framework that takes care of the SID procedure and en route conflict possibility with no harm to the runway throughput. The implications of this work hint toward better management of the airport operations and the performance of the overall air traffic management system.
Are Lower Passive Anterior Elevation and External Rotation at 6 Weeks Postoperatively Associated With Healing of Isolated Arthroscopic Supraspinatus Repairs?
Authors: Collin Philippe , Martinho Tiago , Denard Patrick J. , Gain Solenn , Pernoud Anthony , Bothorel Hugo , Lädermann Alexandre
Published: April 2024

Background:

Despite advancements in surgical technique, failure of tendon healing remains a common problem after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between range of motion (ROM) recovery and healing after ARCR. It was hypothesized that an early loss of ROM would be associated with tendon healing.

Study design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This was a retrospective comparative study of primary ARCR of isolated full-thickness supraspinatus (SSN) tendon tears. Cases were retrieved from a prospective rotator cuff repair database and divided into 2 groups based on healing (healed/nonhealed). A standardized clinical evaluation was performed before and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. Collected data included passive and active ROM, visual analog scale for pain, and Constant score. Healing was assessed by ultrasound at 6 months.

Results:

Of 1397 eligible ARCRs, 1207 were included. The healing rate was 86.7%. Age was higher in the nonhealed group (57.8 ± 7.9 years vs 61.6 ± 8.8 years; P < .001). Patients with healed repairs had a larger decrease in passive anterior elevation (AE) from the preoperative to the 6-week postoperative visit (–31°± 28° vs −18°± 26°; P < .001), followed by a more substantial increase throughout the remaining follow-up period (32°± 23° vs 18°± 21°; P < .001). At 6 months postoperatively, there was no difference in AE between groups (159°± 17° vs 161°± 14°; P > .999). External rotation elbow at side (ER1) and internal rotation hand in the back (IR1) followed similar courses of recovery. Passive and active ROM had a strong positive correlation at each follow-up. Age (odds ratio [OR], 1.79; 95% CI, 1.45-2.23; P < .001) and 6-week passive AE (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.20-1.48; P < .001) and ER1 (OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.03-1.29; P = .017) were predictors for nonhealing.

Conclusion:

Lower passive AE and ER1 at 6 weeks postoperatively and younger age are associated with healing after ARCR of isolated SSN tendon tears. At 6 months postoperatively, there were no differences in ROM, regardless of tendon healing.