bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strength in Numbers: Identifying a Significant Association between High Serum Ferritin Levels and Newly Diagnosed Malignancy in a Large Health Organization Cohort
Authors: Simchovitz Gesher Alon , Grinin Keren , Atias Dor , Patalon Tal , Gazit Sivan , Hoshen Moshe , Dagan Amir
Published: October 2024

Background:

Ferritin, an iron storage protein and acute phase reactant, has been implicated in various aspects of human health and disease, including cancer. Previous studies have identified elevated serum ferritin (SF) levels in several cancer types, but a comprehensive examination across different malignancies remains lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by utilizing anonymized data from Maccabi Health Services (MHS), one of Israel’s largest health organizations, to explore the association between elevated SF levels and the diagnosis of different malignancies.

Methods:

An extensive dataset from MHS, comprising 2.7 million members, including 1.3 million individuals who underwent SF level testing, was analyzed. ORs and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to assess the association between high SF levels and cancer diagnosis. Subgroup analysis was conducted to investigate variations across different malignancies.

Results:

The analysis revealed a significant association between elevated SF levels and cancer diagnosis among MHS members, with an OR of 1.9 (95% confidence interval, 1.71–2.15). Subgroup analysis unveiled differences in the association across malignancy types, with hematologic, hepatobiliary, and respiratory malignancies more strongly associated with high SF levels.

Conclusions:

This study provides further support for the link between elevated SF levels and malignancy, leveraging a vast dataset from MHS, underscoring potential utilities of elevated SF levels as a potential indicator for cancer with a variable role among different malignancy types.

Impact:

The identification of elevated SF levels as a potential indicator for underlying malignancy for seemingly healthy individuals
Supplementary Data from Prostate Cancer Progression Modeling Provides Insight into Dynamic Molecular Changes Associated with Progressive Disease States
Authors: Chen Runpu , Tang Li , Melendy Thomas , Yang Le , Goodison Steve , Sun Yijun
Published: October 2024

Construction of combined model.
Figure S1 from Prostate Cancer Progression Modeling Provides Insight into Dynamic Molecular Changes Associated with Progressive Disease States
Authors: Chen Runpu , Tang Li , Melendy Thomas , Yang Le , Goodison Steve , Sun Yijun
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Figure S1
Figure 4 from Prostate Cancer Progression Modeling Provides Insight into Dynamic Molecular Changes Associated with Progressive Disease States
Authors: Chen Runpu , Tang Li , Melendy Thomas , Yang Le , Goodison Steve , Sun Yijun
Published: October 2024

Spearman’s rank correlation analysis of PSA level, TMB, and GII mapped onto four identified progression paths. A, PSA level. B, TMB. C, GII. The broken line in each plot indicates the branching events on the corresponding progression path, and the solid line represents data trend estimated by natural spline curve fitting (df = 3).
Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome with Severe Mitral Valve Insufficiency Caused by a Homozygous Intragenic Deletion of the EVC Gene
Authors: Kolkiran Abdulkerim , Daşar Tuğba , Taşdelen Elifcan , Kaya Özkan
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterised by skeletal abnormalities, cardiac anomalies, and findings of hidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. Cardiac anomalies are common in this syndrome and usually include an atrial septal defect when present. The disorder is caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in the EVC and EVC2 genes. A small number of patients with Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome have also been found to have copy number variants associated with these two genes. Case Presentation: A 13-year-old girl patient was referred to the paediatric genetic department with short stature, short extremities, operated post-axial polydactyly, nail hypoplasia, and severe mitral valve insufficiency. Chromosomal microarray analysis identified a 45 kb homozygous deletion encompassing exons 3–11 of the EVC gene at 4p16.2. Conclusion: Herein, we present a case with an intragenic deletion of the EVC gene and expand the clinical and genetic spectrum of Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome.
ПОРУШЕННЯ ЦИТОКІНОВОГО ПРОФІЛЮ ПРИ ДІАБЕТИЧНІЙ АРТРОПАТІЇ КОЛІННОГО СУГЛОБА
Authors: Гнатюк М. С. , Татарчук Л. В. , Вадзюк Н. С. , Ясіновський О. Б. , Стець Н. Я.
Published: October 2024

Вступ. Цукровий діабет супроводжується різними ускладненнями в органах та системах організму і також призводить до ураження суглобів. Особливості порушень цитокінового профілю при діабетичній артропатії колінного суглоба досліджено недостатньо.
Мета дослідження – вивчити особливості порушень цитокінового профілю при діабетичній артропатії колінного суглоба.
Методи дослідження. Комплексом біохімічних та морфологічних методів досліджено структури колінного суглоба 96 лабораторних статевозрілих білих щурів-самців, яких було поділено на три групи: 1-ша – 30 інтактних контрольних тварин; 2-га – 32 щури з місячною діабетичною артропатією колінного суглоба; 3-тя – 34 тварини з двомісячною вказаною патологією. Цукровий діабет моделювали шляхом одноразового внутрішньочеревного введення стрептозотоцину фірми “Sigma” в дозі 50 мг/кг. Евтаназію щурів здійснювали кровопусканням за умов використання тіопенталового наркозу. Імуноферментним методом у сироватці крові визначали концентрацію інтерлейкінів (IL2, IL6, IL10) та фактора некрозу пухлини α (TNFα). З колінного суглоба виготовляли гістологічні мікропрепарати, які досліджували світлооптично і морфометрично. Кількісні показники обробляли статистично.
Результати й обговорення. Встановлено, що при діабетичній артропатії колінного суглоба виникає суттєвий дисбаланс цитокінів. При місячному діабетичному ушкодженні колінного суглоба рівень IL2 у сироватці крові зріс на 20,8 %, IL6 – на 40,9 %, IL10 – 30,9 %, TNFa – на 12,4 % (р<0,001), при двомісячній діабетичній атропатії наведені показники підвищилися, відповідно, на 30,6, 52,0, 36,27 та 17,9 % (р<0,001). Відносний об’єм ушкоджених синовіоцитів синовіальної оболонки колінного суглоба за умов місячного експерименту збільшився в 10,4 раза, хондроцитів суглобової поверхні стегнової кістки – в 5,1 раза, великогомілкової кістки – в 6,9 раза, надколінка – в 4,0 рази (р<0,001), при двомісячній діабетичній артропатії колінного суглоба ці показники аналогічно змінилися – в 14,6, 7,1, 8,0 і 6,0 разів (р<0,001) відповідно.
Висновки. Діабетична артропатія колінного суглоба характеризується вираженим дисбалансом цитокінів IL2, IL6, IL10, TNFa у сироватці крові, ураженням синовіоцитів синовіальної оболонки, хондроцитів суглобових поверхонь кісток досліджуваного суглоба. Найбільш виражені зміни концентрації цитокінів та ушкоджених синовіоцитів, хондроцитів суглобових поверхонь кісток колінного суглоба виявлено при двомісячній діабетичній артропатії.
Assimilation of Scattered Ocean Observations Using the Localized Equivalent-Weights Particle Filter with Statistical Observations
Authors: Deng Xiong , Han Rui , Yang Chunwang , Zhao Hengde , Zheng Hao , Yang Shuo
Published: October 2024

Marine physical data are currently derived mainly from satellite remote sensing, sparsely distributed buoys, and mobile observation platforms. The buoys and mobile observation platforms are more suitable for acquiring deep ocean data. Traditional methods for dealing with such observations rely on linear and Gaussian assumptions in the assimilation of nonlinear marine characteristics, which may introduce bias in analysis and forecasting. The particle-filter assimilation method is of increasing interest because it has advantages in dealing with nonlinear assimilation problems, although it has limitations with sparsely distributed observations. To address this problem, we introduced inverse distance-weighted interpolation into the localization scheme of the localized equivalent-weights particle filter with time-distributed statistical observations method based on data from sparsely distributed buoys and mobile platforms. This improved the utilization rate of observations and increased forecast accuracy. Theoretical experiments were undertaken to highlight the characteristics of the improved method, using reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts as evaluation criteria in comparing the method with the localized weighted ensemble Kalman filter method—a hybrid particle-filter method. Results indicate that the method effectively improves assimilation and the accuracy of state estimation and forecasts of ocean temperature and salinity.

Significance Statement

This paper addresses the problem of assimilating sparsely distributed observations in processing ocean elements. We improved the localization scheme to deal with the sparse-observation problem based on the localized equivalent-weights particle filter with time distribution statistical observation (LEWPF–T–Sobs). This method can effectively handle the assimilation problem with sparse observations while retaining the advantages of traditional particle filtering assimilation, thus improving the accuracy of estimates of physical ocean data.
Sizeism Among Fat and Big Men: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Turner Joshua K. , Lopez Anna
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to capture the lived experiences of sizeism, or size discrimination, for fat and big men. The intention of this study was to identify the essence of fat and big men’s experience of sizeism to more adequately understand how sizeism may impact the lives of these men to assist with the creation of more culturally competent psychological services and interventions for this population. A total of 10 participants were included in this study. Participants self-identified as fat or big, cisgender, and varied in race/ethnic identity and age (from 25 to 44 years). Data analysis of their experiences revealed five emergent themes: (a) accessing masculinity, (b) navigating thin privilege, (c) psychological consequences of living in fat male bodies, (d) sexual capital, (e) and fat/big as identity.
How to Change Practice and Policy to Address the Unique Needs of Senior Inmates: Insights From the Norwegian Correctional System
Authors: Rocha Paulo , Stene Eleni Maria , Brooke Petra Kjellen
Published: October 2024

This study explores challenges senior inmates face in a Norwegian prison and evaluates the “Come and Meet Each Other” (CAMEO) program's effects on their life, focusing on changes in policy and practice to transform inmates’ perceptions of their environment. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including survey and interviews, thematic analysis revealed that CAMEO enhances inmates’ daily lives, dignity, and community integration, promoting a more normal life. Despite positive outcomes, issues persist with drug rehabilitation cohabitation and prison structure. Recommendations include improving facility design, expanding activities, and enhancing staff training. The findings highlight broader issues in correctional settings and suggest areas for further research on recidivism and reintegration.
Association between Jewish religious observance and mental health among Israeli adults: Findings from the Global Flourishing Study
Authors: Levin Jeff , Bradshaw Matt , Johnson Byron R.
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study investigates the association between Jewish religious observance and several indicators of mental health and psychological well-being among Jewish Israeli adults.

Method

Data are from adult (18+) Jewish respondents in the Israeli sample (N = 2958) of the first wave of the Global Flourishing Study (GFS), a 22-nation population survey which will eventually consist of five annual waves of panel data. The GFS Israeli data were collected via a randomized, stratified, probability-based sampling design, and contained dozens of indicators of sociodemographic, socioeconomic, political, religious, health-related, and other constructs.

Results

Measures of Jewish religious observance, including religious service attendance, prayer, scripture reading, belief in God, and importance of Judaism, are statistically significant predictors of several single-item indicators of mental health (overall mental health, depression, anxiety) and psychological well-being (suffering, happiness, life satisfaction). Greater religious observance is associated with a higher self-rating of overall mental health, less depression and anxiety, less suffering, and greater happiness and life satisfaction. Nearly all results withstood adjusting for effects of several sociodemographic covariates.

Conclusion

These results offer confirmation of prior studies using smaller samples or non-population-based designs and with fewer mental health and religious indicators. They suggest that evidence for a salutary association between religious observance and mental health or psychological well-being among Israeli Jewish adults is consistent with findings in this literature for adherents to other faith traditions throughout the world.
For Me or Against Me? Reactions to AI (vs. Human) Decisions That Are Favorable or Unfavorable to the Self and the Role of Fairness Perception
Authors: Choi Jungmin , Chao Melody M.
Published: October 2024

Public reactions to algorithmic decisions often diverge. While high-profile media coverage suggests that the use of AI in organizational decision-making is viewed as unfair and received negatively, recent survey results suggest that such use of AI is perceived as fair and received positively. Drawing on fairness heuristic theory, the current research reconciles this apparent contradiction by examining the roles of decision outcome and fairness perception on individuals’ attitudinal (Studies 1–3, 5) and behavioral (Study 4) reactions to algorithmic (vs. human) decisions. Results from six experiments (N = 2,794) showed that when the decision was unfavorable, AI was perceived as fairer than human, leading to a less negative reaction. This heightened fairness perception toward AI is shaped by its perceived unemotionality. Furthermore, reminders about the potential biases of AI in decision-making attenuate the differential fairness perception between AI and human. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
Imposed Invisibility: Unraveling Identities Through Negotiations of Categories among People Raised in Germany by Polish Parents
Authors: Cichocka Ewa
Published: October 2024

While recent studies have focused extensively on the reflexive use of categories and methodologies in research on migrants and refugees, they have paid less attention to individuals whose parents are migrants. Previous studies have noted that the terms second generation migrants and migrant descendants are centered on migration, thereby homogenizing experiences and deepening social exclusion of the people they define. However, we have less understanding of research participants’ perceptions of these categories. Additionally, the focus of most research has been on non-white descendants of migrants, which risks aligning scientific discourse with mainstream narratives that problematize some groups while silencing others. This article bridges this gap by examining the perception of research categories among people raised in Germany by Polish parents. It presents interviewees’ negotiations of categories in the context of their status as an invisible minority as well as their access to various class resources. Drawing from autobiographical narrative interviews, the study first demonstrates how the positioning of interlocutors as invisible begins at the micro level through everyday interactions with the mainstream society and their families. It then reveals the mechanisms of this process: ascribing identifications, creating an anti-migrant environment, exerting pressure on integration, and limiting resources. It argues that invisibility limits interlocutors’ possibilities to negotiate a sense of belonging and express self-identification. Engaging participants in category negotiations and autobiographical narrative interviews, along with considering the class perspective, expands the space for reflecting on identity and helps to align categories with participants’ lived experiences.
Dynamics of the construction of agency and identity during the transition from primary to secondary school in students in Colombia / Dinámicas de construcción de agencialidad e identidad durante la transición de la primaria a la secundaria en estudiantes en Colombia
Authors: Aristizábal Danna , Barbato Silviane
Published: October 2024

This study analyses the dynamics of the construction of agency and identity in one boy and one girl during the transitional period between primary and secondary school and the time when they embark on adolescence in a school in Colombia. Drawing from the principles of Grounded Theory, interviews and observations were conducted. The analysis applied a thematic and microgenetic analysis to identify issues in tension, functions, directions of change and dynamics of reflexivity and agency. The results showed a transformation of meanings and positionings in reflexivity on belonging to or being part of a social group at school, which mobilized the development of agency for both identifying and differentiating oneself. The agency<>reflexivity dynamics were articulated in identity construction processes in the midst of the challenges of school transitions and development. We discuss the findings and their implications in terms of changes and transformations to construct maps of agency development, as well as the possible discussions around the traditional Kantian educational models.
Gathering around a satellite image: Visual media cycles of the nuclear nonproliferation complex
Authors: Lawrence Christopher
Published: October 2024

How have Western nongovernmental experts used remote sensing to make public knowledge about Iran’s nuclear program? This article recounts several episodes in which experts and journalists congregated around satellite images to uncover hidden nuclear objects in Iran. Drawing from the theoretical tradition of co-production, I describe this recurrent collective experience as an imaginative exercise that can both coordinate and transform diverse communities of knowledge. I outline common temporal and thematic structures that define these episodes, and illuminate the role of commercial satellite imagery as material anchor that threads distributed imaginings together such that broadly-shared experience and sensibility can emerge. I argue that these collective imaginative practices have fomented civic-epistemic closure, not around affirmative nuclear facts or beliefs about Iran, but around a set of persistent questions about the ‘possible military dimensions’ of its nuclear past. I close by exploring the broader political effects of this form of recursive inquiry within the global nuclear order.
Trigeminal neuralgia and risk of cancer: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Risager Lykke Malene , Elser Holly C. , Fuglsang Cecilia Hvitfeldt , Farkas Dóra Körmendiné , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: October 2024

Background

Evidence of an association between trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and subsequent cancer risk remains sparse. The present study aimed to examine the association between TN and cancer risk in the Danish population.

Methods

A nationwide population-based cohort study using hospital diagnoses collected routinely and prospectively from Danish population-based registries in 1994–2022.

Results

We identified 7846 individuals with a first-time diagnosis of TN. Within one year of diagnosis, we observed 193 cancer cases (standardized incidence rate (SIR) = 2.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.11–2.82). Absolute risk (AR) for all cancers within one year of TN diagnosis was 2.5% (95% CI = 2.2–2.9). Cancers of the head, neck and nervous system were most strongly associated with TN (AR 0.9% (95% CI = 0.7–1.1); SIR = 13.5 (95% CI = 10.5–17.0)) and the risk was persistently elevated one year after TN diagnosis. We observed 827 cancer diagnoses beyond one year after TN diagnosis, where smoking related cancers were associated with elevated cancer risk (SIR 1.13 = (95% CI = 0.98–1.29)).

Conclusions

TN was associated with an elevated risk of cancers of the head, neck and nervous system including site-specific cancers in the area. Our results suggest the potential importance of smoking related tumors in TN, either as a symptom, cause or shared risk factor.
An evaluation of trends for mesothelioma mortality in American women: Addressing the content of a recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
Authors: Stevens Michael E , Tuttle Brett P , Brew David W , Paustenbach Dennis J
Published: October 2024

Mesothelioma is a fatal disease that has historically been associated with exposure to airborne asbestos. Because occupational asbestos exposures dropped dramatically in the late 1960s and early 1970s, far fewer cases of mesothelioma today are due to these fibers but, instead, are usually a result of the aging process or genetic predisposition. In May of 2022, a Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) was issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding malignant mesothelioma incidence in women from 1999 to 2020. While this MMWR alerted citizens to the continued presence of the disease, after reading this article one might have thought that the CDC was suggesting that the disease was increasing in women due to asbestos exposures (which it is not). In the present analysis, we investigate several factors related to the interpretation of epidemiological data for mesothelioma, including the role of asbestos as a risk factor over time. The authors conducted a review of the scientific community’s understanding of mesothelioma incidence and asbestos exposures amongst women, as well as an investigation of the methods and references in the MMWR article. Although various articles have recently discussed the incidence of both peritoneal and pleural mesothelioma in women, it is fortunate that the age-adjusted rates for mesothelioma have remained flat (neither increased nor decreased significantly) in women for the past 50 years. Incredibly few women in the U. S. have had appreciable cumulative exposures to any type of asbestos (chrysotile, amosite, or crocidolite) in the workplace or from the ambient environment, especially since about 1965–1970. In this paper, we highlight six factors that should be considered when evaluating the incidence of mesothelioma amongst American women in the current era. Without sufficient consideration of these factors, improper conclusions have been drawn over the past several years.
Comprehensive simulation study on AlN, ZnO, and PZT-5H piezoelectric materials for microcantilever-based MEMS energy harvesters: Mechanical and electrical insights
Authors: Manvi Mahammadrafeeq , Swamy K B Mruthyunjaya
Published: October 2024

The piezoelectric effect involves the generation of electric charge in specific materials when subjected to mechanical stress or strain. This phenomenon is utilized in applications such as sensors, actuators, and energy harvesters. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based piezoelectric energy harvesters are especially useful for powering microelectronic devices and sensors, reducing dependency on batteries in situations where regular battery maintenance and/or replacement is either difficult or impractical. While individual piezoelectric materials like aluminum nitride (AlN), zinc oxide (ZnO) and lead zirconate titanate (PZT) have been extensively studied, comparative analyses within a single context are important for designers, but seldom reported. Accordingly, this article presents a comprehensive study on MEMS energy harvesters, focusing on well-known materials like AlN, ZnO, and PZT-5H. Using finite element method based COMSOL Multiphysics software tool, the proposed energy harvesters are simulated and analyzed for their mechanical and electrical properties to evaluate the performance for typical applications. The resonant frequencies for AlN, ZnO, and PZT-5H harvesters are identified at 3300, 2900, and 2800 Hz, respectively, with corresponding power outputs of about 1.28, 190.5, and 0.004 nW under a “1 g” acceleration. This precise evaluation facilitates designers on informed material selection based on performance metrics, enhancing MEMS energy harvester development. Notably, the significantly higher power output for ZnO compared to AlN and PZT-5H challenges conventional material preferences and offers new possibilities for efficient energy harvesting solutions.
Numerical research on the aerodynamic performance of inlet volute duct for a heavy-duty gas turbine
Authors: Zeng Lingyan , Chen Qi , Chen Hui , Zhao Jiayi , Shi Qiliang , Zhang Hua , Li Xinyuan
Published: October 2024

Heavy-duty gas turbines represent a highly efficient method for converting heat into power within power generation systems. As the technology behind these turbines advances, their operational efficiency and stability have become paramount. The intake volute, a crucial component of the turbine’s intake system, significantly affects the airflow dynamics within the inlet channel of the pressurized turbine. This study employs numerical simulations to analyze the airflow field within the L inlet volute duct of a heavy-duty gas turbine. Initial findings indicate a lack of uniformity in the airflow field as it transitions through the volute’s turning section into the contraction area. Modifications to the arc structure at the airflow corners have demonstrated potential for enhancing flow uniformity in the constriction section while reducing total pressure distortion at the volute duct’s outlet. Further analysis of linear structural parameters of the contraction section, including the taper angle (α) and the tilt angle (β) at the rear of the inlet chamber, reveals that a lower Bezier curve parameter I significantly diminishes exit airflow distortion. Conversely, Bezier curve parameter II appears to exert minimal influence on airflow distortion. Optimal taper and tilt angles, ranging from 25° to 30° and 9° respectively, minimize mean velocity inhomogeneity and total pressure distortion at the outlet. Compared to the original structure, these adjustments reduce mean velocity inhomogeneity by 55.19% and total pressure distortion by 53.93% at the duct’s outlet, thus achieving a more uniform flow field.
Axiological reflection for nursing ethics education: The missing link in understanding value conflicts
Authors: Groothuizen Johanna Elise
Published: October 2024

Texts from various areas of the world highlight the importance of moral values like compassion and integrity in healthcare. Such values are held in high esteem by healthcare organisations and are actively ‘taught’ within nursing ethics education to ensure their presence within the future workforce. With such an emphasis, it is easy to overlook that moral values are not the only values that people, including nurses, hold. Other personal values – which may or may not conflict with moral values – are simultaneously present within individuals. Therefore, moral behaviour cannot be predicted solely by the presence/absence of certain moral values. Instead, it depends on how these integrate into an individual’s broader values system.

Using Schwartz’s axiological Theory of Basic Human Values as a framework, I argue that moral values are but one part of an individual’s greater personal values spectrum, which also includes, for instance, hedonism, achievement, and power. Within this spectrum, values are ordered hierarchically, influencing behaviour based on relative priority. When a conflict arises between moral and other personal values, the prioritisation of moral values is a requirement for moral behaviour.

I discuss how socialisation in suboptimal clinical practice environments can cause moral values to be deprioritised and argue that the development of practical reasoning skills is paramount to learning to balance one’s values and guide decision-making. I advocate for the integration of (meta-)axiological reflection – characterised by introspection and aimed at developing a deeper understanding of one’s personal values spectrum – within nursing ethics education. This involves exploring the origin, meaning, and perceived relative importance of one’s different personal values. By incorporating specific reflective exercises, students can increase self-awareness/insight and enhance their ability to recognise situations where conflicts between their moral values and other personal values may occur, which is likely to benefit moral decision-making in clinical practice.
Comparison of Cradle Breastfeeding Position with Cross-Cradle Breastfeeding Position in Term Newborn on Their Weight Pattern—Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Patel Shaily , Gaur Ajay
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Breastfeeding is not a choice it is a shared responsibility of the mother. Breastfeeding is a right of every baby. Common breastfeeding positions are side-lying, cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football, laid-back. There is a little data available to compare different breastfeeding positions in terms of maternal comfort. This study was conducted with the objective to see the effect of breastfeeding positions on weight pattern and urine frequency along with maternal comfort and Latching on, Audible swallowing, Type of nipples, Comfort, and Help (LATCH) score.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare effect of two breastfeeding techniques (cradle and cross-cradle) of mother delivered by normal vaginal delivery on weight pattern of term newborn and to compare maternal comfort, LATCH score, and urinary frequency between the two groups.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial is performed in 200 mother newborn dyad of gestational age between 37 and 42 weeks. The weight loss pattern, maternal comfort, and LATCH score was compared between the two groups.

Results

Among 200 newborns, 55.5% were males and 44.5% were females. Study observed that there is no significant difference in mean weight loss between two positions; however, urine frequency between cradle group and cross-cradle group was statistically highly significant ( p-value <0.001). Cross-cradle breastfeeding position showed higher maternal comfort score and LATCH score than cradle breastfeeding position.

Conclusion

This study explores that cross-cradle breastfeeding position is better in terms of maternal comfort and baby’ latchment than cradle breastfeeding position.
Comparative Assessment of Fetal Malnutrition Using the Clinical Assessment of Nutritional Score and Anthropometry Among Newborns Delivered at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized  Hospital, Ethiopia
Authors: Sume Bickes Wube , Afework Mekbeb
Published: October 2024

Background

Fetal malnutrition (FM) is inability to gain a sufficient amount of muscle mass and stoutness during prenatal growth. It has both immediate and long-term effects in early neonatal and late adulthood.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess FM incidence using clinical nutritional assessment (CAN) score and evaluate CAN score with anthropometry to develop simple and reliable screening algorithm.

Methods

Institution-based study was carried out at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (DMCSH). Only term singleton newborns were measured for weight, head circumference (HC), crown-heel length, and midarm circumference (MAC). Ponderal index (PI), body mass index (BMI), and MAC to HC ratio were computed. Nutritional status of newborns was evaluated using CAN score within 24 hours of delivery. Stata version 14 software was used for data analysis.

Results

In this study, 422 term newborns were participated. FM incidence was 13.74% by CAN score. About 15.40, 13.03, and 7.58% of malnourished newborns were identified through MAC/HC, BMI, and PI, respectively. Sensitivities of PI, MAC to HC, and BMI were 48.28, 81.03, and 86.21%, respectively. Specificities of PI, BMI, and MAC to HC were 98.90, 98.63, and 95.05%, respectively.

Conclusions

Almost one in every seven newborns had FM by the CAN score. The BMI had greatest sensitivity, while the PI exhibited highest specificity in detecting FM. Therefore, birth attendants lacking training in CAN score can rapidly assess FM using a combination of BMI and PI.
Brief review of the 2022 reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act: Gaps and way forward
Authors: Rai Abha , Ravi Kristen E , Singh Sonia , Vandermolen Rylie
Published: October 2024

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) has profound impacts on individuals affected by domestic violence. Through its reauthorizations, this legislation has aimed to support immigrants. Despite improvement, there remain gaps. In this brief note, we focus on the stated goals of the VAWA and review impacts of reauthorizations on immigrants. To review the legislation, we utilize a historical and intersectional feminist analytical lens. Furthermore, we note gaps in the VAWA and make recommendations for a way forward. We highlight implications for social work practitioners so that they can adequately support immigrants experiencing victimization.
CAA-ri Masquerading as a High-Grade Glioma: A Case Report
Authors: Xia Angela , Mehta Vishal , Wei Victoria , Andreev Alexander , Regenhardt Robert
Published: October 2024

This case describes a 76-year-old male with initial clinical concern for a high-grade glioma, who was ultimately diagnosed with cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related inflammation The patient’s presentation included a tonic-clonic seizure followed by aphasia and right-sided hemiparesis. Magnetic resonance brain imaging demonstrated a large left frontal lesion with parenchymal contrast enhancement. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy indicated elevated choline to creatine and choline to N-acetyl aspartate ratios, further suggestive of high-grade glioma. However, subsequent biopsy findings revealed perivascular amyloid deposits, confirming the diagnosis of CAA-ri. To our knowledge, this is the first case in literature to report elevated choline to creatine and choline to N-acetyl aspartate ratios in cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related inflammation.
Double diagnostic deviance: Case report of chest wall liposarcoma mimicking inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor mimicking costochondritis
Authors: Tully Andy , Lee Andy Chao Hsuan , Gorton Andy , Turkyilmaz Muge , Podbielski Francis
Published: October 2024

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor and liposarcoma very rarely present as tumors of the chest wall. Never have both been reported together in the same lesion. We present a case wherein a 72-year-old man with a rapidly progressing lesion initially mistaken for a local infection underwent resection with diagnosis of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. He experienced recurrence less than 6 months before radical resection revealed well to dedifferentiated liposarcoma with areas of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. He is now doing well with over 4 years of follow-up.
Current Concept & Phases of Sport Injury Rehabilitation
Authors: Tinduh Damayanti
Published: October 2024

Hamstring muscle injury was commonly found among football players. It needed some periods to recover even not in a fully manner. Post hamstring injury resulted some deficits in function and muscle performance. The deficits and its underlined mechanism were not fully understood. This article explained more about the deficits and its underlined mechanism among football player with post hamstring injury. Nunez et al study (2023) reported the biceps femoris long head (BFlh) fascicle lengths and pennation angle in elite professional football players showed no differences in previously BFlh injured vs uninjured legs or in dominant vs non-dominant limbs in uninjured players. The previously injured limb showed higher intrinsic tension in the muscle in the resting state, higher resistance to external force that deforms the muscle’s initial shape, and a significantly reduced ability to provide a gradual elongation of the muscle over time when constant tensile stress was applied, but a similar muscle architecture. Rodriguez et al study (2017) was reported the deficits was found more in Soleus than in Gastrocnemius. Slow aerobic type 1 muscle fibre was poorly recovered post traumatic injury compared with fast glycolytic type 2 muscle fibre. Slow aerobic type 1 muscle fibre secreted less granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) to stimulate Pax7+ stem cell. The Pax7+ stem cell played a key role in muscle recovery post injury.
Distal Triceps Tendon Injury
Authors: Kholinne Erica
Published: October 2024

Injuries to the distal triceps brachii tendon are rare, but they can be challenging to diagnose accurately. While imaging radiographs are commonly used to confirm physical examination findings and guide treatment, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the gold standard for diagnostic imaging. However, the accuracy of MRI in distinguishing between partial and full-thickness tears of the distal triceps tendon is not very reliable.

A recent study conducted from 2011 to 2015 involving eight patients with nine triceps tendon tears aimed to assess MRI's accuracy in this differentiation. The study revealed that MRI correctly identified all three surgically confirmed complete tears, but its accuracy in detecting partial tears was less reliable, correctly identifying only four out of six cases. Notably, two cases were mistakenly identified as complete tears by MRI but were found to be partial tears during surgery.

The characteristics of the distal triceps brachii insertion on the olecranon are fascinating and provide valuable insights into the diagnostic challenges faced by clinicians. Therefore, a recent study included fourteen fresh-frozen elbows were dissected, and a histologic examination was conducted on the distal triceps brachii insertion. Concurrently, T1-weighted elbow MR images of 102 patients without triceps pathology were analyzed.

The study found that there are three distinct insertional areas of the distal triceps brachii tendon on the olecranon: capsular, deep muscular, and superficial tendinous. The superficial tendinous insertion exhibited a thickened portion known as the "central cord." MR analysis revealed a cleft between the superficial tendinous and deep muscular insertions, designated as the "lacuna," in some cases. Understanding this anatomy can help surgeons identify partial triceps injuries and avoid iatrogenic injury during surgery.

While MRI is valuable in diagnosis, it is not always accurate, and false-positive results are not uncommon. Therefore, it is crucial to combine clinical examination with imaging for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes clinical assessment, with MRI serving as a valuable adjunctive tool in the diagnostic process and treatment planning for distal triceps tendon injuries.
Functional Outcome in Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair versus Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Surya Pranata Ketut Gede Arya , Wien Aryana Gusti Ngurah
Published: October 2024

Background:

In recent years, interest in modern anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) suture repair procedures has increased. Although some clinical studies have produced positive short-term outcomes, there is a lack of high-quality information about the efficacy of this treatment in comparison to ACL reconstruction. We aim to compare the therapeutic effect of primary repair ACL injury with reconstruction and provide the reliable evidence for its clinical application.

Methods:

PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies from January 2019 to August 2023. This research will include English-language, randomized, controlled studies that compare functional outcome (IKDC subjective score, Lysholm Score, and Tegner score) in primary ACL repair versus ACL reconstruction.

Result:

Five studies were used ranging from 2019 to 2023 which discussed the comparison of the treatment of ACL rupture with primary ACL repair and ACL Reconstruction. Both group of Primary ACL Repair and ACL Reconstruction have a similar in outcome in Lysholme score and Tegner score. Meanwhile they have a significant differences in IKDC score which higher in ACL Reconstruction group compare to primary ACL repair group (9,63 points, 95% CI=7.54-11,72, p<0.00001) and a higher rate of complication on primary ACL repair than the ACL Reconstruction group.

Conclusion:

Primary ACL Repair and ACL Reconstruction have a difference functional outcome for IKDC score. While the choice for treatment is still depend to individual patient for some factors including severity of injury, patient age, activity level, graft choice, and long-term goals.
Functional Assessment with Blood Flow Restricted Therapy Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction at 8 Weeks Follow-Up: a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dharmayuda Putu Angga , Wien Aryana I Gusti Ngurah
Published: October 2024

Background:

Quadriceps muscle atrophy with diminished muscle strength has been observed in patients underwent ACL reconstruction, despite following the regular physical rehabilitation. Blood flow restricted therapy has shown beneficial outcomes in attempts to prevent muscle atrophy and improve muscle strength in this population.

Objective:

The aim of study is to evaluate the functional outcome with blood flow restricted therapy following ACL reconstruction according to recent publications.

Methods:

This study conducted a thorough systematic search for relevant scientific reports on multiple medical databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, using a combination of keywords such as "blood flow restricted therapy," "ACL reconstruction," “IKDC,” "KOOS," and “Lysholm”. The search was performed in April 2013-2023, resulted in 557 studies. Two reviewers (WA, PA) independently screened the abstracts and reference lists, with any discrepancies resolved through consensus, concluding 4 included studies.

Results:

Four studies included studies are included with a total 80 patients consisting of 41 patients treated with blood flow restricted therapy (BFRT) and 39 patients treated with regular physical rehabilitation following an ACL reconstruction. At 8 weeks follow-up, there are overall satisfactorily functional outcomes, including IKDC, KOOS, and Lysholm score favoring BFRT.

Conclusion:

Blood flow restriction therapy is applicable for physical rehabilitation technique following ACL reconstruction. It provides beneficial adjunct to surgical ACL reconstruction with satisfactory results.
How the marketing of real estate properties explains mortgage applicants by race and income
Authors: Nilsson Isabelle , Delmelle Elizabeth C
Published: October 2024

In this article, we study how the marketing of single-family homes explains the racial and income makeup of mortgage applicants in a neighborhood. We use a case study of the robust housing market of Charlotte, North Carolina, and annual, longitudinal real estate listing advertisements alongside mortgage lending data, to demonstrate how the share of properties advertised a certain way in a neighborhood in 1 year explains shares of mortgage applicants by race and income the following year. We classify property advertisement text using a semi-supervised learning algorithm into five categories following a housing investment and disinvestment to renewal continuum. We find stark racial disparities in mortgage applicants by housing type, even after controlling for income. We find that Black applicants nearly exclusively apply for mortgages in neighborhoods with a high share of properties advertised as disinvested with little profit-making promise. High-income White applicants rise as the share of advertised properties becomes more homogenous.
Measuring Superficial Pelvic Floor Muscle Properties Using Transperineal Grayscale and Sonographic Elastography: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Kadah Shaza , Lever Frauke , Soh Sze-Ee , Lin Kuan-Yin , Frawley Helena
Published: October 2024

Objective:

The objective was to test the feasibility and acceptability of a novel protocol to measure the properties of the superficial pelvic floor muscles (sPFMs) using grayscale ultrasonography (US), point shear-wave elastography (pSWE), and strain elastography (SE).

Materials and Methods:

This was an observational feasibility study. Feasibility was determined by assessing the number of US images acquired to measure sPFM properties using these tools. Thickness of the sPFMs was assessed using grayscale US, while stiffness and elasticity were measured using pSWE and SE.

Results:

Twenty-six women participated in this study. The US image acquisitions and analyses of sPFM properties were completed in 96% (25 of 26) of women. Several challenges related to the morphological characteristics of sPFM or the US assessment tools were encountered. When measuring the bulbospongiosus muscle, both the muscle and bulb of the clitoris were captured (they moved and contracted similarly and simultaneously). The small size of the ischiocavernosus and superficial transverse perineal muscles also made measuring stiffness challenging.

Conclusion:

Challenges were encountered when measuring the sPFMs using grayscale US, pSWE, and SE. Further studies are required to optimize the protocol to evaluate individual sPFM properties using these tools, with Duplex Doppler potentially valuable to distinguish between vascular and sPFM structures.
Cryo-EM structure of the human native plasma coagulation factor XIII complex
Authors: Singh Sneha , Hagelueken Gregor , Ugurlar Deniz , Ramaraje Urs Samhitha Urs , Sharma Amit , Mahapatra Manoranjan , Drepper Friedel , Imhof Diana , Huesgen Pitter F. , Oldenburg Johannes , Geyer Matthias , Biswas Arijit
Published: October 2024

The structure of human coagulation factor XIII (FXIII), a heterotetrameric plasma protransglutaminase that covalently cross-links preformed fibrin polymers, remains elusive until today. The heterotetrameric complex is composed of 2 catalytic FXIII-A and 2 protective FXIII-B subunits. Structural etiology underlying FXIII deficiency has so far been derived from crystallographic structures, all of which are currently available for the FXIII-A2 homodimer only. Here, we present the cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of a native, human plasma–derived FXIII-A2B2 complex at 2.4 Å resolution. The structure provides detailed information on FXIII subunit interacting interfaces as the 2 subunits interact strongly in plasma. The native FXIII-A2B2 complex reveals a pseudosymmetric heterotetramer of 2 FXIII-B monomers intercalating with a symmetric FXIII-A2 dimer forming a “crown”-like assembly. The symmetry axes of the A2 and B2 homodimers are twisted relative to each other such that Sushi domain 1 interacts with the catalytic core of the A subunit, and Sushi domain 2 with the symmetry related A′ subunit, and vice versa. We also report 4 novel mutations in the F13A1 gene encoding the FXIII-A subunit from a cohort of patients with severe FXIII deficiency. Our structure reveals the etiological basis of homozygous and heterozygous pathogenic mutations and explains the conditional dominant negative effects of heterozygous mutations. This atomistic description of complex interfaces is consistent with previous biochemical data and shows a congruence between the structural biochemistry of the FXIII complex and the clinical features of FXIII deficiency.