bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior Circulation Thrombectomy in Patients With Low National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Score: Analysis of the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Patel Karan , Taneja Kamil , Shu Liqi , Zhang Linda , Yu Yunting , Abdalkader Mohamad , Obusan Matthew B. , Yaghi Shadi , Nguyen Thanh N. , Asdaghi Negar , Oak Solomon , Tonetti Daniel A. , Siegler James E.
Published: January 2024

Background

Prior studies have shown benefit for endovascular therapy (EVT) in patients with large‐vessel occlusion and severe deficits, as captured by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). However, the benefit of EVT in patients with NIHSS score of <6 is unclear.

Methods

We queried the National Inpatient Sample (2018–2020) for patients with a large‐vessel occlusion of the internal carotid or middle cerebral artery with an NIHSS score of <6, and compared outcomes between patients treated with EVT versus best medical management, using propensity score matching. The primary outcome was routine discharge (home or self‐care). Secondary outcomes were in‐hospital mortality, intracerebral hemorrhage, and length of stay. Primary and secondary outcomes were evaluated using multivariable regression adjusted for baseline characteristics, stroke severity, and treatment with thrombolysis.

Results

Of the 212 515 patients with an internal carotid artery/middle cerebral artery stroke, 49 115 met the inclusion criteria for our study. There were 3490 (7.1%) patients treated with EVT and 45 625 (92.9%) treated with best medical management. Patients treated with EVT had no difference in ofdds of routine discharge (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.99; 95% CI, 0.82–1.19;
P
 = 0.91), but there were longer lengths of hospital stay (adjusted β, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.78–1.74;
P
<0.001) and higher rates of death (adjusted OR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.20–3.70;
P
 = 0.01), compared with patients treated with best medical management. In multivariable models, intravenous thrombolysis was independently associated with higher odds of routine discharge (adjusted OR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.57–2.01;
P
<0.001) and shorter hospital stay (adjusted β, −0.41; 95% CI, −0.63 to −0.19;
P
<0.001), but no difference in in‐hospital mortality (adjusted OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.39–1.24;
P
 = 0.22). These relationships persisted in the propensity‐matched cohort.

Conclusion

Patients treated with EVT compared with best medical management had worse clinical outcomes, and this may be attributable to residual confounding (eg, deterioration following an initially low NIHSS score) or procedural factors. Patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis had greater odds of routine discharge. Our findings suggest potential real‐world benefits for intravenous thrombolysis in patients with occlusion of the internal carotid artery/middle cerebral artery and low NIHSS score.
Psalm 40 and the “New Covenant” of Jeremiah 31?
Authors: Lasater Phillip M.
Published: January 2024

This paper discusses how Ps 40 reflects a widely attested and complex discourse on how legalities relate to the human self—a discourse involving matters such as law’s relation to human flourishing and perfectibility (e.g., Deut 30:6–14; Jer 31:31–34; Ps 19; Wis 6 and 9; Philo; for others views of perfectibility, cf. Gen 6:5; 8:21; Qoh 9:3). Psalm 40 combines praise and lament, with divine law as a key factor in this liturgical text’s logic. After clarifying literary-historical and form-critical issues in studies of Ps 40, it will be argued that whether or not there is a literary relationship to Jer 31, these texts display divergent logic on law’s relationship to human flourishing. The paper contributes to scholarly understanding of legal discourse and lament in Jewish antiquity.
Minority Rights Denials in Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammed Awol Ali
Published: January 2024

This article explores the constitutional promises and practices of self-rule in Ethiopia federal system focusing on the Konso ethnic group’s quest for self-rule. Given that the federal project in Ethiopia is a new model (synthesis) that has replaced the failed ‘Nation-State’ building effort since 1991, self-rule has become the ideological heart of the incumbent party and a pillar of the constitution. To this end, the article used a qualitative research approach that relied on both primary and secondary sources of data. Interviews, field observation, focus group discussions, and document analysis were utilised to obtain data. The findings show that, despite the fact that both the fdre and snnprs constitutions promised “unconditional right to every national, nationality, and people to have the right to self-determination up to secession,” the Konso quest for self-rule was rejected, their previous semi-autonomous status was dissolved, and they were relegated to ordinary Woreda. The merger transformed Special Woredas into ordinary Woredas while also shifting nationality self-rule to multi-ethnic self-rule, resulting in a paradigm shift in terms of self-rule practice. The Woredas lack essential identity-related self-government autonomy, such as the capacity to choose the working language and the right to appoint and remove officials as needed. A major source of concern is the decline in capital budgets and the delayed development of infrastructure. As a result, the snnp regional government has breached both its original ideological vows and the framework of the constitution.
Navigating Mangrove Protection: A Jurisdictional Approach to Climate Action in South Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Martin Edwin , Arifatul Ulya Nur , Yunardy Syafrul , Agustina Karlin , Meidalima Dewi , Chuzaimah Chuzaimah
Published: January 2024

Mangrove ecosystems in Indonesia, essential for coastal protection and carbon sequestration, are under severe threat from deforestation. This article emphasizes their significance and their role in Indonesia’s climate change mitigation strategies. Their carbon sequestration capacity is substantial, potentially preventing significant CO2 emissions. Indonesia is committed to climate change mitigation, with its Enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution focusing on the Forest and Other Land Use (folu) sector, where mangroves are pivotal. However, optimizing this potential and involving local communities present challenges due to weak enforcement, policy conflicts, and limited community engagement. Based on a case study in South Sumatra, this study highlights the importance of involving local governments and communities in mangrove conservation efforts as a climate change mitigation measure. By applying a jurisdictional approach, especially through social-forestry schemes (e.g. Village Forests and mangrove-based ecotourism), local governments can play a crucial role in preserving mangrove ecosystems, integrating them into climate policies, and supporting community empowerment while achieving climate change mitigation goals.
Physics of the Eddy Memory Kernel of a Baroclinic Midlatitude Atmosphere
Authors: Vanderborght Elian , Demaeyer Jonathan , Manucharyan Georgy , Moon Woosok , Dijkstra Henk A.
Published: January 2024

In recent theory trying to explain the origin of baroclinic low-frequency atmospheric variability, the concept of eddy memory has been proposed. In this theory, the effect of synoptic-scale heat fluxes on the planetary-scale mean flow depends on the history of the mean meridional temperature gradient. Mathematically, this involves the convolution of a memory kernel with the mean meridional temperature gradient over past times. However, the precise shape of the memory kernel and its connection to baroclinic wave dynamics remains to be explained. In this study we use linear and proxy response theory to determine the shape of the memory kernel of a truncated two-layer quasigeostrophic atmospheric model. We find a memory kernel that relates the eddy heat flux to the zonal mean meridional temperature gradient on time scales greater than 2 days. Although the shape of the memory kernel is complex, we show that it may be well approximated as an exponential, particularly when reproducing baroclinic low-frequency intraseasonal modes of variability. By computing the terms in the Lorenz energy cycle, we find that the shape of the memory kernel can be linked to the finite time that growing baroclinic instabilities require to adapt their growth properties to the local zonal mean atmospheric flow stability. Regarding the explanation for observed baroclinic annular modes in the Southern Hemisphere, our results suggest that it is physical for these modes to be derived directly from the thermodynamic equation by considering an exponentially decaying memory kernel, provided accurate estimates of the necessary parameters are incorporated.

Significance Statement

The goal of this study was to derive the memory of the zonal mean temperature field contained in eddy heat fluxes. To do this we used recent developments in a theory stemming from statistical mechanics, called proxy response theory. This theory facilitated direct numerical computations of the parameterization that links eddy heat fluxes to the zonal mean temperature field. Notably, this parameterization incorporates a crucial memory component, which we demonstrated to be essential in explaining the periodicity of low-frequency modes of variability, specifically the baroclinic annular mode (BAM). Understanding the role of memory as a driver of this variability holds great significance, as the BAM constitutes a dominant pattern of large annular variability within the Southern Hemisphere circulation. Enhanced comprehension of this driver, which is memory, can lead to improved understanding and predictive capabilities concerning observed annular weather patterns.
On CCN Effects upon Convective Cold Pool Timing and Features
Authors: Ross Tobias I. D. , Lasher-Trapp Sonia
Published: January 2024

Cold pools produced by deep convection can initiate new convection, and their representation in larger-scale weather and climate models could improve prediction of the extent and timing of upscale growth. Cold pools originate from latent cooling from precipitation changing phase, but little attention has been paid to microphysical influences on cold pool characteristics, particularly CCN effects. Datasets obtained from the CACTI and RELAMPAGO field campaigns, along with idealized numerical modeling, are utilized to investigate the hypothesis that convective storms forming in higher-CCN environments generate their first surface rainfall later, delaying cold pool initiation. Aircraft observations of CCN and shallow convection on 9 days do suggest a CCN effect. Those ingesting more CCN contained fewer drizzle drops, although a decreased cloud depth with increasing CCN was also likely a limiting factor. In three of those cases that later developed into deep convection, the timing of cold pool onset was not ubiquitously delayed in environments with more CCN. Idealized numerical simulations suggest that an ordinary thunderstorm can experience small delays in cold pool onset with increasing CCN due to changes in graupel production, but CCN effects on the cold pool from a supercell thunderstorm can be easily overpowered by its unique dynamics. A strong inverse relationship between cold pool strength, expansion rate, and depth with increasing CCN is suggested by the results of the ordinary thunderstorm simulation. Further consideration of CCN appears warranted for future cold pool parameterization development, but other environmental factors affecting storm morphology and precipitation cannot be ignored.
A fast-response active disturbance rejection control for a class of nonlinear uncertain systems
Authors: Wei Wei , Duan Bowen , Zhang Weicun , Zuo Min
Published: January 2024

The nonlinear system control is a classical problem in control engineering. In this paper, rather than try to get accurate nonlinear dynamics, the nonlinear and uncertain dynamics are viewed as a signal. It can be estimated by an extended state observer, and compensated by a control law. Accordingly, the nonlinear uncertain system is linearized. Based on the linearized system and the key point of the U-model control, a controller can be designed to obtain predetermined closed-loop system dynamics. To get a more satisfactory performance, a compensation signal of the total disturbance estimation (CSTDE) is designed. Based on the CSTDE, a compensation of the total disturbance estimation based extended state observer (CTDESO) and a fast-response active disturbance rejection control (FRADRC) are proposed. Convergence of the CTDESO and the closed-loop stability of the FRADRC are analyzed. Four nonlinear systems are considered to testify the proposed approaches. Numerical results show that, no matter disturbances exist or not, the proposed CTDESO can linearize a nonlinear system better, and the predetermined closed-loop responses can also be achieved more satisfactorily by the FRADRC.
Sociological Animal Studies Courses Are More Effective Than Human-Centered Sociology Courses in Enhancing Empathy
Authors: Whitley Cameron T. , Kidder Erin N. , Ortiz Kelley J. , Grauerholz Liz
Published: January 2024

Sociology plays a key role in empathy development, which is central to addressing complex social problems. However, little is known about what types of courses work best to enhance empathy. In parallel, sociological animal studies (SAS) has evolved as a relatively new subfield focused on assessing human and animal relationships. SAS research suggests that our interactions with animals enhance empathy development. Combining these literatures, we assess if SAS compared to non-SAS courses impact affective and cognitive empathy for humans and animals differently. Findings reveal that students who take SAS courses demonstrate greater postcourse human and animal empathy even when controlling for precourse levels of empathy and other factors that drive empathy development. Although SAS remains on the periphery of the discipline, this study suggests that it should be a central component of the sociological curriculum.
Drivers of radicalisation? The development and role of the far-right youth organisation ‘Young Alternative’ in Germany
Authors: Heinze Anna-Sophie
Published: January 2024

Today, many far-right parties maintain youth wings, providing opportunities to mobilise members and future party leaders. However, they are often neglected in the study of the far right’s organisation. This article explores the development of the ‘Young Alternative’ and its ambivalent relationship with the ‘Alternative for Germany’. Theoretically, it argues that far-right youth wings can act as important drivers of radicalisation. It also tries to understand conflicts between far-right youth organisations and parties by discussing the interactions between organisational development and radicalisation. Empirically, it opens the ‘black box’ of the German case by drawing on a wide range of primary and secondary sources, including semi-structured interviews with high-ranking ‘Young Alternative’ members, (social) media communication and official documents of the ‘Young Alternative’, ‘Alternative for Germany’ and intelligence services. Overall, the article underlines the importance of far-right youth wings as part of the broader party organisation and offers substantial theoretical and empirical research perspectives.
Evaluating Employee Motivation and Productivity in Bangladesh During the Post-pandemic Era
Authors: Asikullah Fm. , Chakma Phonebuson , Hossain Syed Far Abid , Hussain Khalid
Published: January 2024

In Bangladesh, improving the productivity of ready-made garment (RMG) factory workers has always been an uphill task, and this has assumed greater proportions after the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study explores the effect of welfare facilities and human resource management practices on the motivation and productivity of RMG workers during the pandemic. On the basis of an advanced statistical analysis, the study accepted all hypotheses proposed to highlight the significant impact of human resource management practices and welfare facilities on the motivation and productivity of workers. Both of these factors showed an association with employee productivity through employee motivation, which proved to be a partial mediator. Moreover, the authenticity of the study was supported by the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and the structural equation model (SEM), which were represented based on model fit exponents, composite reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity. The study helps develop an understanding of theoretical and managerial implications, which can assist RMG factory owners, managers, stakeholders and policymakers to motivate workers and improve their productivity.
Enhancing children's emotional regulation and social communication through group intervention – evidence of impact in an Irish outpatient Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service
Authors: MacEvilly Deirdre , Maguire Katie , Brosnan Geraldine , Gaffney Louise
Published: January 2024

In the last decade, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) have observed an unprecedented rise in young children presenting with suicidal ideation, needing urgent assessment and treatment. Once stabilised, CAMHS professionals often refer these children to speech and language therapists (SLTs) for assessment of and support for their social-emotional skills. The Secret Agent Society (SAS) is an evidence-based intervention for children with significant emotional regulation and social communication challenges. No published peer-reviewed evidence exists for the use of SAS for children with moderate-severe mental health disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of SAS in an Irish outpatient CAMHS. Fifty-one children (30 boys, 21 girls) aged 8–12 years (mean age 10:11) with diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorder and/or autism attended the 14-week programme. Questionnaires were completed by children, their parents (51 mothers, 45 fathers) and teachers pre-intervention, post-intervention and at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Statistically significant improvements were made in children's social communication ( F (1.985, 99.273) = 24.900, p < 0.001) and emotional regulation ( F (1.787, 89.358) = 27.302, p < 0.001) across home and school settings. Children's knowledge of emotional regulation strategies also significantly improved. Treatment gains were maintained up to 6-months post-intervention. Results provide preliminary evidence for the efficacy of SAS in an Irish outpatient CAMHS. A cost–benefit analysis would determine the feasibility of offering SAS in other outpatient community services. SLTs have a vital role to play in delivering intensive social-emotional skills support for children with complex diagnostic profiles within CAMHS and other specialised multi-disciplinary teams.
Green hydrogen and linkage-based development in Antofagasta, Chile
Authors: Scholvin Sören
Published: January 2024

The green hydrogen industry will grow tremendously in the coming decades. Peripheral regions in the Global South that offer favourable natural conditions for renewable energies are expected to become nodes of emerging global value chains. This has led to high expectations with regard to development impulses. The paper assesses the prospects of linkage-based development in the region of Antofagasta, Chile. Against the backdrop of expert interviews, secondary sources and insights gained at the first meeting of the region’s green hydrogen committee, the author cautions against being overly optimistic. The green hydrogen industry in Antofagasta benefits from horizontal linkages with the mining sector and related externalities. There are prospects for forward linkages with mining and also chemicals production. Backward linkages will, most likely, be limited to generic, low value-adding tasks. This restricts industrial diversification and upgrading by suppliers. Being capital intensive, the green hydrogen industry will not create many jobs. Through taxation, the region and especially small municipalities may gain access to additional revenues though.
Coping with crisis and precarity in the gig economy: ‘Digitally organised informality’, migration and socio-spatial networks among platform drivers in India
Authors: Ray Aditya
Published: January 2024

The most recent phase of services digitalisation in the global South, reflected in the widespread adoption of Internet and smart-phone technologies, has given rise to an emergent gig economy that employs tens of millions of workers across its diverse urban centres. Pre-eminent frames of analysing the global gig economy have thus far focussed significantly on issues related to platform regulation, employment relations and labour organisation. While important, these frames tend to overlook the wider informal, unwaged and self-organised foundations of gig work and labour in the global South. This article addresses the limitations of existing analytical frames by drawing upon the analysis of 55 telephonic interviews with migrant and non-migrant gig workers associated with well-known ride-hailing and home-delivery apps across two Indian cities about their experiences of the COVID-19 crisis. The article offers novel insights into the various uncertainties and challenges that gig workers in India faced during the COVID-19 national lockdown, as well as their attempts to cope with the new post-pandemic realities. Contextualising these experiences through the lens of ‘digitally organised informality’, the article reveals that in the absence of formal and institutionalised systems, India’s gig workers rely significantly on informal socio-spatial networks of care and support that also link internal urban-rural geographies, lives and livelihoods. Conceptualising these informal networks as fundamentally contextual in understanding the development of gig labour and its social reproduction in the global South, the article however also provides a critical evaluation of their partial and contradictory nature.
Nomogram for predicting neutropenia in patients with esophageal, gastric, or colorectal cancer treated by chemotherapy in the first cycle
Authors: Tian Tian , Hu Wenjun , Hao Jiqing
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Development and validation of a predictive model including serum vitamin concentration to estimate the risk of chemotherapy-induced grade 3/4 neutropenia in esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, or colorectal cancer patients who receive the first cycle of chemotherapy.

Methods

Data from 535 patients treated at the Affiliated Fuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical University from January 1, 2020, to March 2, 2022, were used to derive the predictive model. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis was performed to screen potential risk characteristics, and multivariate logistic regression was utilized to investigate efficient factors associated with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. A nomogram was constructed using this logistic model. This nomogram was then tested on a temporal validation cohort containing 212 consecutive patients.

Results

In the cohort of all 747 eligible patients, grade 3/4 neutropenia incidence was 45.2%. Age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group-performance status, neutrophil count, serum albumin, and hemoglobin data were entered into the final model. The performance of the final predictive nomogram was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve in both the development and validation datasets. The calibration curves indicated that the estimated risks were accurate. Decision curve analysis for the predictive model exhibited improved clinical practicality.

Conclusion

In the present study, we established an accessible risk predictive model and identified valuable serum vitamin concentration parameters associated with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. The predictive model may improve the grade 3/4 neutropenia risk prediction in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies who receive oxaliplatin- and fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy and help physicians make appropriate decisions for disease management.
Relationship between visual acuity and OCT angiography parameters in diabetic retinopathy eyes after treatment
Authors: Wei-Zhang Selena , He Kai , Zhou Wei , Yu Jinguo , Zhao Jing , He Tiangeng , Chen Song , Kaysar Parhat , Sun Zhiyong , Jia Dagong , Zhu Yun , Yan Hua
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To assess the relationship between visual acuity and OCT angiography parameters in diabetic retinopathy eyes after treatment, and to analyze the relative factors in PDR eyes.

Methods

A total of 89 eyes, including 42 eyes with non-PDR (NPDR), and 47 eyes after vitrectomy with PDR were included and underwent OCTA. All images were processed by Python or FIJI. Multivariable linear regression models were used to analyze the associations between postoperative BCVA and OCTA parameters in PDR patients.

Results

Postoperative OCTA parameters including deep capillary plexus (DCP) parafoveal and perifoveal vessel density (VD), DCP parafoveal and perifoveal vessel length density (VLD), DCP fractal dimension (FD), choriocapillaris plexus (CCP) VD, CCP VLD, were significantly lower in the PDR group than in the NPDR group. In the superficial capillary plexus (SCP), we found a negative correlation between the postoperative BCVA and VD (parafovea: β coefficient = -0.351, p = 0.023; perifovea: β coefficient = -0.338, p = 0.036). Perifoveal VLD (β coefficient = -0.343, p = 0.031) and FD (β coefficient = -0.375, p = 0.016) of the SCP were also negatively correlated with postoperative BCVA. Regarding the DCP, perifoveal VD (β coefficient = -0.396, p = 0.008), perifoveal VLD (β coefficient = -0.334, p = 0.025), vessel tortuosity (VT) (β coefficient = -0.369, p = 0.015) were negatively correlated with postoperative BCVA. In CCP, VLD (β coefficient = -0.373, p = 0.023) and number of flow voids (β coefficient = -0.334, p = 0.036) exhibited a negative association with postoperative BCVA.

Conclusions

Postoperative BCVA of PDR patients was related to OCTA parameters of the SCP (parafoveal and perifoveal VD, perifoveal VLD and FD), DCP (perifoveal VD, VLD, and VT) and CCP (VLD and number of flow voids).
Prediction of surface roughness and optimization of process parameters for efficient cutting of aluminum alloy
Authors: Yuanzhi Zhou , Guozheng Zhang
Published: January 2024

At present, there are obvious deficiencies in the research on the high-speed machining mechanism of aluminum alloy materials, especially how the high-speed cutting parameters of the new 7 series aluminum alloy materials affect the machining quality of the workpiece, and how to optimize the high-efficiency cutting process parameters under the premise of ensuring the machining quality. This paper summarizes the research results of the optimization methods, means and paths of 7075 aluminum alloy cutting process parameters, and proposes a multi-objective and multi-constraint high-efficiency cutting process parameter optimization technical scheme. In addition, using the response surface method to establish a surface roughness prediction model for plane milling, and analyze the influence of cutting speed, feed, and amount of cutting tool on the surface roughness, thereby establishing a multi-constrained objective equation for efficient cutting. Then use the cuckoo search algorithm to obtain a set of optimized cutting parameters. Finally, using the optimized set of cutting parameters to process verification of a cover plate. The result shows that: the processing efficiency of the workpiece can be improved by about 15.6% man-hours, and the surface processing quality of the workpiece can be effectively guaranteed.
Catatonia-related adverse outcomes after long-acting injectable antipsychotics: Case series
Authors: Dragonetti Joseph D , Posada Jacqueline G , Key Richard Garrett , Kugler Joseph L
Published: January 2024

Due to a lack of controlled, prospective trials examining the pathophysiology and treatment of catatonia, current guidelines vary regarding how and when to best use antipsychotics in the presence of catatonia and what factors to consider in a thorough risk–benefit analysis. The literature is especially limited in describing the risks and benefits of using long-acting injectable antipsychotics in the presence of catatonia. We describe four cases where patients with preexisting catatonia received long-acting injectable first generation antipsychotics and experienced severe adverse effects (three experienced worsening of catatonia and one experienced neuroleptic malignant syndrome). The evidence base for managing comorbid catatonia and psychosis remains underdeveloped and inconsistent, but there are numerous known risk factors for adverse antipsychotic reactions, which we describe in relation to these cases. Finally, we present best practices to consider when managing comorbid psychosis and catatonia, especially when considering the use of long-acting injectable antipsychotics.
Exploration of vulnerability factors of digital hoarding behavior among university students and the moderating role of maladaptive perfectionism
Authors: Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab , Abdullah Haslinda , Ahrari Seyedali , Abdullah Rusli , Md Nor Siti Maryam
Published: January 2024

In light of the rapidly evolving digital landscape, there is an increasing need to explore digital hoarding behavior. This need is driven by concerns regarding its intricate psychological foundations and its impact on individuals within our technology-centric society. This research investigates the influence of various factors, including the fear of missing out, emotional attachment, information overload, and decision fatigue, on digital hoarding behaviors among university students in Iran. Additionally, the study examines the moderating role of maladaptive perfectionism in these relationships. The study involved 275 university students (mean age = 21.62 years; standard deviation = 2.28 years; 65.6% female) selected from four universities in Iran. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results revealed that the fear of missing out, emotional attachment, information overload, and decision fatigue significantly predict university students’ digital hoarding behavior. Moreover, the findings highlighted the moderating effect of maladaptive perfectionism on the association between emotional attachment and digital hoarding behavior. This suggests that individuals with higher levels of maladaptive perfectionism exhibit amplified digital hoarding tendencies when emotionally attached to their digital data. This study provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between psychological factors and digital hoarding tendencies. These findings have practical implications for educational institutions and mental health professionals, as they can help in developing targeted strategies and interventions to manage digital hoarding behavior in university freshmen and promote healthier digital habits.
Urban Mobility Mode Shift to Active Transport: Sociodemographic Dependency and Potential Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction
Authors: Mun Ng Kah , Wah Yuen Choon , Chuen Onn Chiu , Ibtishamiah Ibrahim Nik
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to explore the association between travel mode choice and individual sociodemographic characteristics among urban city dwellers, as the selection of daily travel modes is influenced by several factors. The study collected 1,290 short daily trips data from 415 respondents living in Klang Valley using a random sampling technique. Logit regression models were utilized to identify the impact of sociodemographic traits on travel mode choices. Men, low education levels, students, and households without children and do not own private vehicles are more likely to choose active transportation. Besides, the study examines the potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction. Based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), 142 kgCO2e or 108 kgCO2e/km of GHG were released by automobiles from the collected travel trip data. The result shows that active transport could potentially achieve 14.52% GHG emission reduction by stated preference and nearly 17% GHG emission reduction by criteria fulfillment. These findings could provide valuable information for developing practical planning policies aimed at reducing GHG emissions from the road transport sector.
Short-Term Training with Basic Science Research Literature Advances Medical Students’ Skills for Adaptive Expertise
Authors: Maxwell Steve , Fuchs-Young Robin , Wells Gregg B. , Kapler Geoffrey , Green Sheila , Pepper Catherine , Gastel Barbara , Huston David P.
Published: January 2024

Physicians must adapt their learning and expertise to the rapid evolution of healthcare. To train for the innovation-efficient demands of adaptive expertise, medical students need to acquire the skill of adaptive self-regulated learning, which includes accessing, interpreting, and synthesizing emerging basic and translational research to support patient care. In response, we developed the course Medical Student Grand Rounds (MSGR). It engages all pre-clerkship students at our institution with self-regulated learning from translational basic research literature. In this report, we describe MSGR's methodology and important outcomes. Students found, interpreted, critically assessed, and presented basic research literature about self-selected clinically relevant topics. In less than one semester and mentored by basic science researchers, they completed eight milestones: (a) search research literature databases; (b) choose a clinical topic using searching skills; (c) outline the topic's background; (d) outline a presentation based on the topic's mechanistic research literature; (e) attend translational research-oriented grand rounds by faculty; (f) learn to prepare oral presentations; (g) write an abstract; and (h) present at Grand Rounds Day, emphasizing their topic's research literature. Graded milestones and end-of-course self-assessments indicated students became proficient in interpreting research articles, preparing and delivering presentations, understanding links among basic and translational research and clinical applications, and pursuing self-regulated learning. Qualitative analysis of self-assessment surveys found most students thought they progressed toward the learning objectives: find scientific information about a research topic (56% positive responses), interpret and critically assess scientific information (64%), and prepare and deliver a scientific presentation (50%). Milestones improve time management and provide a scaffolded method for presenting focused research topics. MSGR equips students with critical thinking skills for lifelong, adaptive, self-regulated learning—a foundation for adaptive expertise. The master adaptive learner cycle of planning, learning, assessing, and adjusting is a conceptual framework for understanding students’ MSGR learning experiences.
The buy-one-get-(almost)-one-free effect of learning traditional or simplified Chinese characters
Authors: Lin Su-Ching , Chen Jenn-Yeu
Published: January 2024

A set of simplified Chinese characters (k = 995) and their traditional counterparts were presented to habitual traditional and simplified Chinese users, respectively, for recognition. The results showed an accuracy rate of at least 85% in the recognition of simplified characters by traditional Chinese users and in the recognition of traditional characters by simplified Chinese users. Additionally, it took the traditional Chinese users about 2.4 rounds of exposure to correct answers to learn and correctly identify all the simplified characters; it took the simplified Chinese users about 1.8 rounds to learn the traditional ones to the same effect. The results indicate that once the learners have mastered one script, the substantial overlaps between the two, along with a simple feedback for learning, enable the learners to make sense of the other easily. The buy-one-get-(almost)-one-free effect serves to encourage learners of Chinese to pursue bi-script literacy, a realistic and pragmatic goal.
Cumulative risk exposure is associated with increased risk for PTSD but not depression or anxiety. Results from a UK clinical sample of children and adolescents
Authors: Turgoose David , Wilkinson Simon , Shevlin Mark , Karatzias Thanos
Published: January 2024

Childhood adversity can include traumatic experiences and exposure to other risk factors; consistently predicting poorer psychosocial outcomes in adulthood. Relatively little research has investigated the impact of cumulative risk exposure in childhood. Using data collected in a specialist clinical setting, we investigated the associations between risk exposure, psychopathology and psychosocial functioning. Participants were children attending the Attachment and Trauma service at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London ( N = 132, M = 10.25, SD = 3.35). Data was collected via routine clinical practice during multi-disciplinary assessments. Data was collected on developmental and trauma history, psychopathology, and functioning (CGAS), using standardised measures, clinical interviews, and observations. All children had experienced at least one risk factor, with 78% reporting multiple exposures, including witnessing interpersonal violence (52%), neglect (48%), and physical abuse (42%). Other risk exposures included exposure to alcohol (17%) and substances (24%) in-utero, as well as social risk factors such as multiple foster placements in some cases. In this sample, 65% of children met criteria for at least one psychiatric diagnosis (Anxiety = 31%, PTSD = 28%, Depression = 8%). High levels of functional impairment were found, with 52% of children falling into the highest categories of ‘obvious’ or ‘severe’ problems. Multiple risk exposure significantly predicted PTSD (OR 9.64 (1.1, 83.7)), but did not predict anxiety, depression, or functional impairment. This study highlights the rates of cumulative risk exposure in this clinical sample. The findings demonstrate the importance of detailed and accurate clinical assessments in ascertaining trauma histories in children with known histories of adversity and maltreatment. There are implications for assessment and treatment, such as the importance of clear guidelines on treating PTSD in children with complex trauma histories.
Inbreeding depression is associated with recent homozygous-by-descent segments in Belgian Blue beef cattle
Authors: Naji Maulana Mughitz , Gualdrón Duarte José Luis , Forneris Natalia Soledad , Druet Tom
Published: January 2024

Background

Cattle populations harbor generally high inbreeding levels that can lead to inbreeding depression (ID). Here, we study ID with different estimators of the inbreeding coefficient F, evaluate their sensitivity to used allele frequencies (founder versus sample allele frequencies), and compare effects from recent and ancient inbreeding.

Methods

We used data from 14,205 Belgian Blue beef cattle genotyped cows that were phenotyped for 11 linear classification traits. We computed estimators of F based on the pedigree information (FPED), on the correlation between uniting gametes (FUNI), on the genomic relationship matrix (FGRM), on excess homozygosity (FHET), or on homozygous-by-descent (HBD) segments (FHBD).

Results

FUNI and FGRM were sensitive to used allele frequencies, whereas FHET and FHBD were more robust. We detected significant ID for four traits related to height and length; FHBD and FUNI presenting the strongest associations. Then, we took advantage of the classification of HBD segments in different age-related classes (the length of an HBD segment being inversely related to the number of generations to the common ancestors) to determine that recent HBD classes (common ancestors present approximately up to 15 generations in the past) presented stronger ID than more ancient HBD classes. We performed additional analyses to check whether these observations could result from a lower level of variation in ancient HBD classes, or from a reduced precision to identify these shorter segments.

Conclusions

Overall, our results suggest that mutational load decreases with haplotype age, and that mating plans should consider mainly the levels of recent inbreeding.
BRCA 1/2 mutations and risk of uterine cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zakerinasab Faezeh , Behfar Qumars , Parsaee Reza , Zadeh Reza Hossein , Foroughi Elaheh , Amirbeik Amirhesam , Ahmadi Ghazalehsadat
Published: January 2024

Purpose

In this study, we aim to investigate the association between BRCA1/2 mutation and uterine cancer incidence.

Material and method

We systematically searched three databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to August 2023; and reviewed 23 cohorts and cross-sectional studies to explore the association between BRCA1/2 mutations and uterine cancer incidence.

Results

This systematic review comprised a total of 21 cohort studies and 2 cross-sectional studies after the screening process. According to meta-analysis the prevalence of the BRCA1/2 gene in patients with uterine cancer was 0.02 (95%CI = [0.01,0.03], P < 0.01, I2 = 94.82%)

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis investigates a 2% prevalence of BRCA1/2 mutation in patients with uterine cancer. Patients with BRCA1/2 mutations might be more conscious of uterine malignancies.
Mycn ameliorates cardiac hypertrophy-induced heart failure in mice by mediating the USP2/JUP/Akt/β-catenin cascade
Authors: Gao Weinian , Guo Na , Yan Hongjiang , Zhao Shuguang , Sun Yongquan , Chen Ziying
Published: January 2024

Background

Pathological cardiac hypertrophy is associated with cardiac dysfunction and is a key risk factor for heart failure and even sudden death. This study investigates the function of Mycn in cardiac hypertrophy and explores the interacting molecules.

Methods

A mouse model of cardiac hypertrophy was induced by isoproterenol (ISO). The cardiac dysfunction was assessed by the heart weight-to-body weight ratio (HW/BW), echocardiography assessment, pathological staining, biomarker detection, and cell apoptosis. Transcriptome alteration in cardiac hypertrophy was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis. Gain- or loss-of-function studies of MYCN proto-oncogene (Mycn), ubiquitin specific peptidase 2 (USP2), and junction plakoglobin (JUP) were performed. The biological functions of Mycn were further examined in ISO-treated cardiomyocytes. The molecular interactions were verified by luciferase assay or immunoprecipitation assays.

Results

Mycn was poorly expressed in ISO-treated mice, and its upregulation reduced HW/BW, cell surface area, oxidative stress, and inflammation while improving cardiac function of mice. It also reduced apoptosis of cardiomyocytes in mice and those in vitro induced by ISO. Mycn bound to the USP2 promoter to activate its transcription. USP2 overexpression exerted similar myocardial protective functions. It stabilized JUP protein by deubiquitination modification, which blocked the Akt/β-catenin pathway. Knockdown of JUP restored phosphorylation of Akt and β-catenin protein level, which negated the protective effects of USP2.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that Mycn activates USP2 transcription, which mediates ubiquitination and protein stabilization of JUP, thus inactivating the Akt/β-catenin axis and alleviating cardiac hypertrophy-induced heart failure.
Clinical features and fecal microbiota characteristics of patients with both ulcerative colitis and axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Zhangni Lei , Mofan Xiao , Yuling Chen , Yingchao Li
Published: January 2024

Background

The role of the intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease combined with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is gaining widespread interest.

Aims

This study was conducted to investigate the clinical and fecal microbiota characteristics of patients with both ulcerative colitis (UC) and axSpA.

Methods

Clinical data were collected from patients with UC. Patients were divided into the axSpA and non-axSpA groups according to human leukocyte antigen-B27 serology and sacroiliac joint imaging results. We obtained fecal specimens from 14 axSpA and 26 non-axSpA patients. All samples underwent 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing.

Results

Seventy-three patients with UC were included in this study, and the axSpA incidence was 19.2%. This incidence was significantly higher in patients with C-reactive protein > 10 mg/L. Firmicutes and Faecalibacterium abundances were decreased, and Proteobacteria and Escherichia_Shigella abundances were increased in the axSpA group compared with those of the non-axSpA group. Indicator analysis showed that Escherichia_Shigella was more likely to be an indicator species of axSpA. Additionally, many biosynthetic and metabolic pathways, including glutathione metabolism, fatty acid degradation, geraniol degradation, and biosynthesis of siderophore group nonribosomal peptides, were upregulated in the axSpA group.

Conclusion

Patients with UC have a high axSpA incidence, which may be related to the relative abundances of Escherichia_Shigella in these patients. The abundances of various biosynthetic and metabolic pathways of the fecal flora were upregulated in patients with axSpA.
Determinants of health-related quality of life in older people with chronic musculoskeletal pain: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fong Hugo Pak-Yiu , Choi Shirley Yue-Kwan , Leung Maria Kwan-Wa , Lo Hermione Hin-Man , Wang Bo , Wong Samuel Yeung-Shan , Sit Regina Wing-Shan
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to identify the significant physical, psychological, and social determinants associated with EuroQuol-5D (EQ-5D) among Chinese older people with chronic musculoskeletal pain, and to evaluate how these determinants affected the five dimensions of EQ-5D.

Method

This is a cross-sectional study. Data were collected through a cohort involving 946 community-dwelling older people aged ≥ 60 with chronic musculoskeletal pain in Hong Kong. Selected independent variables were categorized into physical, psychological, and social domains. Physical variables included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), pain severity score, number of pain regions, the most painful site, and the number of comorbidities. Psychological variables included depression level measured using the 9-question Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and anxiety level measured using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7). Social variables included living, marital, and social welfare recipient’s status. The dependent variables comprised the index scores and the five dimensions of the EQ-5D descriptive system. Ordinal least squares (OLS) model and logistic regression model were used for data analysis.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 67.1 (SD = 5.1), with 77.6% being female. Higher pain severity scores (beta (β) coefficient =-0.044, P < 0.001), depression scores (β=-0.007, P < 0.001) and higher anxiety scores (β=-0.01, P < 0.001) were associated with lower EQ-5D index scores. Specifically, knee pain (β=-0.061, P < 0.001) was significantly associated with lower EQ-5D index scores. Participants with higher pain severity and depression scores were more likely to report problems in most EQ-5D dimensions. Participants with anxiety primarily faced challenges related to mood, and those with knee pain were more likely to have problems with mobility and daily activities.

Conclusion

Among the selected determinants in our study, pain intensity, depression, anxiety, and knee pain were identified as key determinants associated with reduced HRQoL in older Chinese people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Each of these determinants showed distinct associations with different dimensions of the EQ-5D, potentially informed resource allocation and the development of targeted interventions to improve the overall HRQoL of this specific population.