bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probable depression and its correlates among undergraduate students in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Croock Jeremy , Mpinganjira Mafuno G. , Gathoo Kaashifa , Bulmer Robyn , Lautenberg Shannon , Dlamini Qhayiyakazi , Londani Pfanani , Solontsi Azola , Stevens Chanel , Francis Joel M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Depression is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Globally, depression is higher among university students than the general population—making it a significant public health problem. Despite this, there is limited data on the prevalence in university students in the Gauteng province, South Africa. This study determined the prevalence of screening positive for probable depression and its correlates among undergraduate students at the university of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.

Methods

A cross-sectional study, using an online survey was conducted among undergraduate students at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2021. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2) was used to assess the prevalence of probable depression. Descriptive statistics was computed and conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with probable depression. Age, marital status, substance use (alcohol use, cannabis use, tobacco use, and other substance use) were included in the multivariable model apriori determined confounders and other factors were only added if they had a p-value <0.20 in the bivariate analysis. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The response rate was 8.4% (1046/12404). The prevalence of screening positive for probable depression was 48% (439/910). Race, substance use, and socio-economic status were associated with odds of screening positive for probable depression. Specifically reporting white race (adjusted OR (aOR) = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.42, 0.96), no cannabis use (aOR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.44–0.99), higher spending power in the form of having the most important things but few luxury goods (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.80) and having enough money for luxury goods and extra things (aOR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.26–0.76) were associated with lower odds of screening positive for probable depression.

Discussion:

In this study, screening positive for probable depression was common among undergraduate students at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa and associated with sociodemographic and selected behavioral factors. These findings call for strengthening the awareness and use of counselling services among undergraduate students.
Criminal reactions to drug-using offenders: A systematic review of the effect of treatment and/or punishment on reduction of drug use and/or criminal recidivism
Authors: Tomaz Vera , Moreira Diana , Souza Cruz Olga
Published: February 2023

The association between substance use and crime is very common, but complex. Several countries have found strategies to face drug abuse and criminality that may exist associated to it, seeking to reduce overcrowded prisons and to promote the reductions of criminal recidivism and/or substance use. Through the guidelines of PRISMA, a systematic review was conducted with the aim to explore the different criminal reactions to individuals who use substances and are involved in the criminal justice system, namely the role of treatment and/or punishment in the reduction of crime recidivism and/or drug (ab)use. After gathering the following criteria of inclusion (individuals who use substances and are involved in the criminal justice system, between 18 and 65 years old, regardless of gender; consumers of licit/illicit psychoactive substances; without psychopathology not related with use/abuse of drugs; treatment programs; judicial interventions) the database found 155 articles between 1971 and 2022 from which 110 were selected for analysis (57 are from Academic Search Complete, 28 from PsycInfo, 10 from Academic Search Ultimate, seven from Sociology Source Ultimate, four from Business Source Complete, two from Criminal Justice Abstracts, and two from PsycArticles); additional records were included trough manual search. From these studies, 23 articles were included, as they answered the research question, and therefore, constitute the final sample of this revision. The results indicate treatment as an effective response of the criminal justice system in the reduction of criminal recidivism and/or drug use, addressing the criminogenic effect of reclusion/imprisonment. Therefore, interventions that privilege treatment should be chosen, although there are still gaps in terms of evaluation, monitoring and scientific publications regarding the effectiveness of treatment in this population.
Prevalence of self-medication and associated factors among female students of health science colleges at Majmaah University: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Loni Shamshad Begum , Eid Alzahrani Raed , Alzahrani Mansour , Khan Mohammad Owais , Khatoon Rafia , Abdelrahman Huda Hakim , Abd-Elhaleem Zeinab A. , Alhaidari Munira Mohammed
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Globally, the prevalence of self-medication among young people has increased exponentially. Due to the basic knowledge and easy access to medicines, undergraduate students at health science colleges are likely to self-medicate. This research was undertaken to assess self-medication prevalence and its contributing factors among female undergraduate students in health science colleges at Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

A descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 214 female students from the Majmaah University in Saudi Arabia's health science colleges—Medical: (82, 38.31%) and Applied Medical Science College (132, 61.68%)—was conducted. A self-administered questionnaire with sociodemographic information, drugs used, and reasons for self-medication was used for the survey. Non-probability sampling techniques were used to recruit participants.

Results

Of the 214 female participants, 173, 80.84 % (medical: 82, 38.31% and applied medical science: 132, 61.68%) confirmed that they were on self-medication. The majority of participants (42.1%) were between the ages of 20 and 21.5 years (mean ± SD: 20.81 ± 1.4). The main reasons for self-medication were quick relief from the illness (77.5%) followed by saving time (76.3%), minor illnesses (71.1%), self-confidence (56.7%), and laziness (56.7%). The use of leftover drugs at home was common among applied medical science students (39.9%). The main indication for self-medication included menstrual problems (82.7 %), headache (79.8%), fever (72.8%), pain (71.1%), and stress (35.3%). The most common drugs used included antipyretic and analgesics (84.4%), antispasmodics (78.9%), antibiotics (76.9%), antacids (68.2%), multivitamins, and dietary supplements (66.5%). On the contrary, the least used drugs were antidepressants, anxiolytics, and sedatives (3.5, 5.8, and 7.5 %, respectively). Family members were the main source of information for self-medication (67.1%), followed by self-acquired knowledge (64.7%), social media (55.5%), and least were friends (31.2%). For adverse effects of the medication, the majority of them consulted the physician (85%) followed by consulting the pharmacist (56.7%) and switched to other drugs or decreased drug dosage. Quick relief, saving time, and minor illness were the main reasons for self-medication among health science college students. It is recommended to conduct awareness programs, workshops, and seminars to educate on the benefits and adverse effects of self-medication.
Health related quality of life among people with mental illness: The role of socio-clinical characteristics and level of functional disability
Authors: Defar Semira , Abraham Yacob , Reta Yared , Deribe Bedilu , Jisso Meskerem , Yeheyis Tomas , Kebede Kurabachew Mengistu , Beyene Bereket , Ayalew Mohammed
Published: February 2023

Background

People with mental illness (PWMI) have declining health related quality of life (HRQoL), which is frequently equivalent to or greater than that of medical disorders. Although, HRQoL is rapidly being recognized as an essential treatment outcome indicator in modern psychiatry, research on the identification and significance of factors impacting QoL in PWMI is still in its early stages.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify predictors of HRQoL among people with mental illness who underwent outpatient follow-up in Sidama region, southern Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, cross-sectional study from April-1, to May-30, 2022. A total of 412 participants took part in the study, using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. The HRQoL was measured using the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey-Version 2 (SF-12v2) scale. To describe different variables, descriptive statistics were employed. To find independent HRQoL predictors, we used multivariable linear regression analysis. P-value of <0.05 were declared statistically significant at 95% confidence interval (CI).

Result

Out of 412 participants, nearly two-third 261 (63.3%) were male and nearly half 203 (49.3%) were diagnosed as schizophrenia. HRQoL was positively associated with social support (β = 0.321) and being single (β = 2.680). Conversely, functional disability (β = −0.545), being a student (β = −4.645) and jobless (β = −3.279) by occupation, and being diagnosed with depression (β = −2.839) were negatively impacted HRQoL among PWMI.

Conclusion

HRQoL of people with mental disorders in this study was significantly associated to social support, marital status, occupation, diagnosis and level of functional disability. Therefore, the mental health care system should develop HRQoL promoting measures that enhance PWMI functioning, social support and employment.
Factors related to earthquake preparedness of households based on social-cognitive theory constructs: A systematic review
Authors: Rezabeigi Davarani Esmat , Nekoei-Moghadam Mahmood , Khanjani Narges , Iranpour Abedin , Chashmyazdan Mohammadreza , Farahmandnia Hojjat
Published: February 2023

Background

Earthquakes cause many casualties worldwide. Taking preventive measures and improving community preparedness is critical to reducing earthquake damage. The social cognitive theory explains how individual and environmental factors cause behavior. This review was conducted to identify the social cognitive theory structures, in research on the preparedness of households against earthquakes.

Materials and methods

This systematic review was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A search was conducted from January 1, 2000, to October 30, 2021 in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Studies were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The initial search yielded 9,225 articles, and finally, 18 articles were selected. Articles were assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist.

Results

Eighteen articles about disaster preparedness behaviors based on the socio-cognitive constructs were identified and reviewed. The essential constructs used in the reviewed studies included self-efficacy, collective efficacy, knowledge, outcome expectations, social support, and normative beliefs.

Conclusion

By identifying the dominant structures that have been used in studies related to the preparedness of households against earthquakes, researchers can implement appropriate and more cost-effective interventions by focusing on improving suitable structures.
Risk factors of caesarean deliveries in urban–rural areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Abdulla Faruq , Hossain Md. Moyazzem , Rahman Md. Mahabubur , Rahman Md. Siddikur , Rahman Azizur
Published: February 2023

Background and aims

The key interest of this research is to identify the causes of the ongoing increasing trends in caesarean section or C-section (CS) deliveries in both urban and rural areas of Bangladesh.

Methods

This study analyzed all Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) datasets through Chi-square and z tests and the multivariable logistic regression model.

Results

CS deliveries were found to be more prevalent in urban than in rural areas of Bangladesh. Mothers above 19 years, above 16 years at first birth, overweight mothers, those with higher educational levels, those who received more than one antenatal care (ANC) visit, fathers having secondary/higher education degrees and employed as workers or in business, and mothers living in wealthy households in the cities of Dhaka, Khulna, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, and Rangpur divisions had a significantly higher likelihood of CS deliveries in urban areas. Contrastingly, mothers with ages between 20 and 39 years, above 20 years at first birth, normal weight/overweight mothers, those with primary to higher level of education, those in the business profession, fathers who also received primary to higher education, mothers who received more than one ANC visit, and those living in wealthy households in Dhaka, Khulna, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, and Rangpur divisions were more likely to have CS deliveries in rural areas. The 45–49 age group mothers had a five times higher likelihood of CS deliveries [odds ratio (OR): 5.39] in urban areas than in rural areas. Wealthy mothers were more likely to be CS-delivered in urban (OR: 4.84) than in rural areas (OR: 3.67).

Conclusion

The findings reveal a gradual upward alarming trend in CS deliveries with an unequal contribution of significant determinants in urban and rural areas of Bangladesh. Therefore, integrated community-level awareness programs are an urgent need in accordance with the findings on the risks of CS and the benefits of vaginal deliveries in this country.
Pattern formation, structure and functionalities of wrinkled liquid crystal surfaces: A soft matter biomimicry platform
Authors: Wang Ziheng , Servio Phillip , Rey Alejandro D.
Published: February 2023

This review presents an integrated theoretical and computational characterization and analysis of surface pattern formation in chiral and achiral liquid crystal self-assembly and the mechanical/optical/tribological/tissue engineering surface functionalities that emerge from various wrinkling processes. Strategies to target surface patterns include linear, non-linear, multidirectional and multiscale wrinkling phenomena. The focus of the review is to show the unique surface structure-functionalities that emerge from anisotropic liquid crystal soft matter, eliminating or reducing the need of aggressive solvents, extreme pressure/temperature conditions, erosion and other surface morphing approaches. The surface pattern formation theoretical-modelling- computational results are then connected and validated with actual biological surfaces that are considered solid liquid crystal analogues, such as exocuticles of insects, fish scales, and flowers. A unique feature of thein silicosurface pattern formation platform used throughout this review is the generalized liquid crystal shape equation that includes surface anchoring elasticity, membrane elasticity, and stress loads from liquid crystals orientation gradients. Clear characterization of surface shapes, curvatures, roughness, that are behind surface functionalities are introduced and applied to strengthen validation of predictions with actual nature’s surfaces. Wrinkling scaling laws, and the dependence of material properties on morphing mechanisms are elucidated. The predictions capture very well the two-scale wrinkling patterns in tulips, wrinkling gradients that display water sensor capabilities, egg carton shapes in rose petals and their potential for cell alignment, and the ability to create surface roughness with targeted kurtosis and skewness to control and optimize friction and tribological functionalities. The results are summarized in terms of surface geometry (open or closed) mechanisms and phenomena (anchoring, membrane elasticity), material properties (anchoring coefficients, membrane bending modulus, Frank elasticity), wrinkling scales and scaling laws (amplitude, wave-lengths, skewness, kurtosis) and functionalities (optical iridescence, friction, wettability, structural color, curvature-driven cell alignment and differentiation). Taken together, the range of surface geometries and surface functionalities captured by the liquid crystal biomimeticin silicoplatform provides a foundation for future experimental green manufacturing pathways based on anisotropic soft matter.
Jupiter radio emission probability tool
Authors: Cecconi B. , Aicardi S. , Lamy L.
Published: February 2023

Jupiter is a source of intense radio emissions in the decametric wavelength range observable from ground (above ∼10 MHz) and from space (down to a few kHz). The strong anisotropy of the Jovian radio sources results in characteristic shapes in the temporal-spectral domain, which can be used to identified the various types of Jovian radio components. The Jupiter Probability Tool provides users with Jovian radio emission observability predictions, depending on the observers location, and the radio emission class. The application can be used for observation planning or data analysis for ground or space observations.
Protonation of apolar species: From Cl2H+ to (E)-NCCHCHCNH+ through computational investigations
Authors: Alessandrini Silvia , Bizzocchi Luca , Melosso Mattia , Puzzarini Cristina
Published: February 2023

Radioastronomy is a powerful tool for the discovery of molecules in space but it requires molecular species to be polar. The observation of apolar species can be however enabled by protonation, which occurs from reaction with the abundant H3+ ion whenever the proton affinity of the species under consideration is greater than that of H2. This property can be easily investigated by computational chemistry and, in this work, it has been used to asses the potential protonation of simple homo diatomics, such as Cl2, P2, and Si2, as well as apolar species containing two equivalent CN moieties, such as diisocyanogen (CNNC) and (E)-1,2-dicyanoethene. Quantum chemistry has also been exploited to investigate the mechanisms of three protonation reactions of H3+ with Cl2, P2, and CNNC. To support laboratory measurements and astronomical observations of the resulting transient species, their rotational spectroscopic parameters were accurately computed together with fundamental vibrational frequencies. For this purpose, we have employed CCSD(T)-based computational methodologies, which provide equilibrium structures with errors smaller than 0.001 Å and 0.1° for bond distances and angles, respectively. Such an accuracy is expected to lead to rotational constants predicted, in relative terms, with uncertainties better than 0.2%. Instead, the expected accuracy on vibrational frequencies is ∼10 cm−1, thus being well suited to guide band assignments.
The Quintuple Helix Model: Cooperation system for a sustainable electric power industry in Mexico
Authors: González-Carrasco Verónica , Robina-Ramírez Rafael , Gibaja-Romero Damián-Emilio , Sánchez-Oro Sánchez Marcelo
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Achieving an energy transition in the power industry in Mexico is a complex task. Despite being one of the most promising countries in Latin America and the world for developing wind and solar photovoltaic energy, energy and climate change efforts are insufficient; therefore, changes are generated slowly and leisurely. This article attempts to make a proposal based on the Quintuple Helix Model as an analytical and decision-making framework to encourage the production and consumption of clean/renewable electric energy and reduce GHG emissions. It proposes the sum of strategic interactions to promote a cooperation system and knowledge transfer, know-how, and innovation through the active and committed collaboration of government, academia, industry, civil society, and the environment to achieve the sustainable development of the electricity industry in Mexico.

Methods

These hypotheses are the result of the development of a singular methodology based on Partial Least Squares (PLS), according to Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results point out that the five-helix approach is valid to solve the energy transition problem in the electricity industry in Mexico.

Discussion

Although it is not fully developed and consolidated, it can be replicated in scenarios with similar socioeconomic characteristics. Furthermore, the government is the most opportune intermediary driving agent for the development of the energy transition in the electricity industry, since it is the one that can lead and drive the energy transition process by modifying the electricity sector through structural change in the energy market.
Comparison of transabdominal wall specimen retrieval and natural orifice specimen extraction robotic surgery in the outcome of colorectal cancer treatment
Authors: Houqiong Ju , Ziwen Wan , Chonghan Zhong , Penghui He , Hongxin Yu , Weijie Lu , Dongning Liu , Taiyuan Li
Published: February 2023

Background

Natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES), as a new star of minimally invasive techniques, has been increasingly favored and promoted in the field of surgery around the world. Most previous studies were comparative studies of laparoscopic NOSES and conventional laparoscopic surgery. However, there is little research on comparing robotic colorectal cancer NOSES with conventional robotic-assisted colorectal cancer resection surgery.

Participant and methods

This study is a retrospective study of propensity score matching (PSM). This study included Ninety-one propensity score-matched pairs of the participant who had undergone robotic colorectal cancer resection surgery at our center between January 2017 and December 2020. The covariates used in the propensity score included gender, age, BMI, ASA score, maximum tumor diameter, the tumor's height from the anal verge, histological differentiation, AJCC stage, T stage, N stage, and history of previous abdominal surgery. The outcome measurement criteria included postoperative complications, inflammatory response, pelvic floor function, anal function, cosmetic outcome, quality of life, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

The robotic NOSES group had faster recovery time from gastrointestinal function (P = 0.014), shorter abdominal incision length (P < 0.001), less pain (P < 0.001), less additional analgesia required (P < 0.001), and lower postoperative indicators of white blood cell count (P < 0.001) and C-reactive protein content compared to the robotic-assisted resection surgery (RARS) group (P = 0.035). Additionally, the robotic NOSES group had significantly better body imagery (P < 0.001), cosmetic scores (P < 0.001), somatic function (P = 0.003), role function (P = 0.039), emotional function (P = 0.001), social function (P = 0.004), and overall function (P < 0.001) than the RARS group. The two groups demonstrated no significant difference between DFS and OS.

Conclusion

Robotic colorectal cancer NOSES is a safe and feasible minimally invasive procedure and offers shorter abdominal incisions, less pain, less surgical stress response, and better postoperative quality of life. Therefore, this technique can be further promoted for colorectal cancer patients eligible for NOSES.
A qualitative approach for a situation analysis of AMR risks in the food animal production sector
Authors: Caipo Marisa , Gatica María de los Ángeles , Rojas Hernan , del Barrio Leopoldo
Published: February 2023

In response to the need to manage Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), countries have produced National Action Plans (NAPs), which require detailed information of the AMR situation in all sectors. Considering the limited information that is publicly available for an analysis of the AMR situation in animal production, the FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (FAO RLC) developed the “FAO tool for a situation analysis of AMR risks in the food and agriculture sectors.” The objective of this paper is to present the methodology developed for a qualitative evaluation of the risk factors of AMR toward animal and human health, based on terrestrial and aquatic production systems and their associated national public and private mitigation measures. The tool was developed reflecting the AMR epidemiological model and the guidelines to conduct a risk analysis of AMR from the Codex Alimentarius and WOAH. Applied in four stages of progressive development, the objective of the tool is to provide a qualitative and systematic assessment of the risks of AMR from animal production systems, to animal and human health, and to identify gaps in cross cutting factors in AMR management. The tool consists of three instruments: (i) a survey to collect data for a situation analysis of AMR risks; (ii) a methodological procedure for the analysis of the information obtained; (iii) instructions for the preparation of a national roadmap for the containment of AMR at a national level. Based on the results from the information analysis, a roadmap is prepared by guiding and prioritizing the needs and sectoral actions for the containment of AMR under an intersectoral, multidisciplinary and collaborative approach, and according to country priorities and resources. The tool helps to determine, visualize and prioritize the risk factors and challenges that contribute to AMR from the animal production sector and that need to be addressed to manage AMR.
Usutu virus: An emerging flavivirus with potential threat to public health in Africa: Nigeria as a case study
Authors: Akinsulie Olalekan Chris , Adesola Ridwan Olamilekan , Bakre Adetolase , Adebowale Oluwawemimo Oluseun , Adeleke Richard , Ogunleye Seto Charles , Oladapo Ifeoluwa Peace
Published: February 2023

Usutu virus (USUV) is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) of the flaviviridae family (genus Flavivirus) which belong to the Japanese encephalitis virus complex. Culex mosquitoes have been implicated in the transmission of this pathogen. The major susceptible hosts of USUV are migratory birds, thereby potentiating its ability to spread from one region to another globally. Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa with a significant percentage of the gross domestic product relying on the agricultural and animal production industry. This review explores the zoonotic potentials of the virus in Africa, especially Nigeria, with special focus on the devastating sequelae this might lead to in the future if necessary precautionary policies are not enacted and adopted to bolster the surveillance system for mosquito-borne viruses.
Effects of Urban and Rural Resident Basic Medical Insurance on Healthcare Utilization Inequality in China
Authors: Zhang Liangwen , Chen Rui , Fang Ya
Published: February 2023

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effects of Urban and Rural Resident Basic Medical Insurance (URRBMI) integration on healthcare utilization and explore the contribution of URRBMI to healthcare utilization inequality among middle-aged and older adults.

Methods: Using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2011–2018. The difference-in-difference model, concentration index (CI), and decomposition method were adopted.

Results: The results suggested that the probability of outpatient visits and the number of outpatient visits had decreased by 18.2% and 10.0% respectively, and the number of inpatient visits had increased by 3.6%. However, URRBMI had an insignificant effect on the probability of inpatient visits. A pro-poor inequality for the treatment group was observed. The decomposition revealed that the URRBMI contributed to the pro-poor inequality in healthcare utilization.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that URRBMI integration has decreased outpatient care utilization and improved the number of inpatient visits. While the URRBMI has improved healthcare utilization inequality, some challenges still exist. Comprehensive measures should be taken in the future.
Expression of the immune targets in tumor-infiltrating immunocytes of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia
Authors: Cheng Hongyan , Zong Liju , Yu Shuangni , Chen Jie , Wan Xirun , Xiang Yang , Yang Junjun
Published: February 2023

Objectives: To evaluate the expression of emerging immune targets in the tumor-infiltrating immunocytes (TIIs) of human gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) specimens, and to analyze the correlation between the expression patterns and prognosis of GTN patients.

Methods: Between January 2008 and December 2017, patients who were diagnosed histologically with GTN were included in this study. The expression densities of LAG-3, TIM-3, GAL-9, PD-1, CD68, CD8, and FOXP3 in the TIIs were assessed independently by two pathologists blinded to clinical outcomes. The expression patterns and correlation with patient outcomes were analyzed to identify prognostic factors.

Results: We identified 108 patients with GTN, including 67 with choriocarcinoma, 32 with placental site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT), and 9 with epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (ETT). Almost all GTN patients showed expression of GAL-9, TIM-3, and PD-1 in TIIs (100%, 92.6%, and 90.7%, respectively); LAG-3 was expressed in 77.8% of the samples. The expression densities of CD68 and GAL-9 were significantly higher in choriocarcinoma than that in PSTT and ETT. The TIM-3 expression density in choriocarcinoma was higher than that in PSTT. In addition, the expression density of LAG-3 in the TIIs of choriocarcinoma and PSTT was higher than that in ETT. There was no statistical difference in the expression pattern of PD-1 among different pathological subtypes. The positive expression of LAG-3 in tumor TIIs was a prognostic factor for disease recurrence, and patients with positive expression of LAG-3 in the TIIs had poorer disease-free survival (p = 0.026).

Conclusion: Our study evaluated the expression of immune targets PD-1, TIM-3, LAG-3, and GAL-9 in the TIIs of GTN patients and found that they were widely expressed but not associated with patients’ prognoses, excepting the positive expression of LAG-3 was a prognostic factor for disease recurrence.
The Role of Animal Health Components in a Biosurveillance System: Concept and Demonstration
Authors: Tan Alwyn , Salman Mo , Wagner Bruce , McCluskey Brian
Published: February 2023

Biosurveillance defines the process of gathering, integrating, interpreting, and communicating essential information related to all-hazards threats or disease activity affecting human, animal, or plant health to achieve early detection and warning, contribute to overall situational awareness of the health aspects of an incident, and to enable better decision making for action at all levels. Animal health surveillance is an important component within biosurveillance systems comprising a continuum of activities from detecting biological threats, to analyzing relevant data, to managing identified threats, and embracing a One Health concept. The animal health community can strengthen biosurveillance by adopting various developments such as increasing the alignment, engagement, and participation of stakeholders in surveillance systems, exploring new data streams, improving integration and analysis of data streams for decision-making, enhancing research and application of social sciences and behavioral methods in animal health surveillance, and performing timely evaluation of surveillance systems. The aim of this paper is to explore components of a biosurveillance system from an animal health perspective and identify opportunities for the animal health surveillance community to enhance biosurveillance. Structural and operational diagrams are presented to demonstrate the required components and relevant data of animal health surveillance as an effective part within a biosurveillance system.
The Efficacy of Micronutrient Fertilizers on the Yield Formulation and Quality of Wheat Grains
Authors: Saquee Francess Sia , Diakite Simbo , Kavhiza Nyasha John , Pakina Elena , Zargar Meisam
Published: February 2023

Under the changing climatic conditions, one of the most pressing issues in wheat production is the improvement of the yield quality, the lack of which has a negative impact on animal and human health. More than 25% of the world’s population are affected by micronutrient deficiencies in food products, a problem which is known as hidden hunger. Thus, effective micronutrient management is crucial for improving both the quantity and quality of wheat production by increasing the plant’s ability to tolerate various environmental stresses and diseases. In this review, previous works were assessed to investigate the significance of micronutrient fertilizers and their interaction effects on the wheat grain yield and quality, including high-quality and nutritionally rich products. The application of micronutrients mixed with macronutrients significantly increases plant growth, physiological traits, yield components, the grain yield, and the quality traits. Among the types of applications, the foliar application of nutrients is very profitable due to its efficiency in terms of economics, ecology, and the qualitative and quantitative yield. In short, in-depth studies are needed to determine the best concentrations, forms, and times of application of micro-fertilizers to the wheat field and to mitigate the challenges of the increasing wheat demand due to steadily rising world population growth and reducing the rates of nutritional deficiency.
Effect of Si Content on Extreme Fast Charging Behavior in Silicon–Graphite Composite Anodes
Authors: Yang Zhenzhen , Trask Stephen E. , Wu Xianyang , Ingram Brian J.
Published: February 2023

Commercial Li-ion batteries typically incorporate a small amount of high-capacity silicon (Si)-based materials in the composite graphite-based anode to increase the energy density of the battery. However, very little is known about the effects of Si on the fast-charging behavior of composite anodes. Herein, we examine the effects of the Si/graphite ratio in the composite anode on the fast-charging behavior of full cells. We show that addition of Si increases the rate capability from 1C to 8C and improves the capacity retention in early cycles at 6C due to reduced overpotential in constant current charging cycles. The impacts of Si content on fast-charging aging were identified by Post-Test characterization. Despite realizing benefits of available capacity and reduced Li plating at 6C, silicon–electrolyte interactions lead the time-dependent cell performance to fade quickly in the long term. The Post-Test analysis also revealed the thickening of the electrode and nonuniform distribution of electrolyte decomposition products on the Si-containing anodes, as well as the organic-rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which are the factors behind cell degradation. Our study sheds insight on the advantages and disadvantages of Si/graphite composite anodes when they are used in fast-charging applications and guides further research in the area by designing an optimized composition of Si incorporated in a mature graphite matrix.
A Genome-Wide Association Study of Dementia Using the Electronic Medical Record
Authors: Cao Xiaowen , Dong Yao , Xing Li , Zhang Xuekui
Published: February 2023

Dementia is characterized as a decline in cognitive function, including memory, language and problem-solving abilities. In this paper, we conducted a Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) using data from the electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) network. This study has two aims, (1) to investigate the genetic mechanism of dementia and (2) to discuss multiple p-value thresholds used to address multiple testing issues. Using the genome-wide significant threshold (p≤5×10−8), we identified four SNPs. Controlling the False Positive Rate (FDR) level below 0.05 leads to one extra SNP. Five SNPs that we found are also supported by QQ-plot comparing observed p-values with expected p-values. All these five SNPs belong to the TOMM40 gene on chromosome 19. Other published studies independently validate the relationship between TOMM40 and dementia. Some published studies use a relaxed threshold (p≤1×10−5) to discover SNPs when the statistical power is insufficient. This relaxed threshold is more powerful but cannot properly control false positives in multiple testing. We identified 13 SNPs using this threshold, which led to the discovery of extra genes (such as ATP10A-DT and PTPRM). Other published studies reported these genes as related to brain development or neuro-development, indicating these genes are potential novel genes for dementia. Those novel potential loci and genes may help identify targets for developing new therapies. However, we suggest using them with caution since they are discovered without proper false positive control.
Understanding the Drawbacks of the Current Tumor Staging Systems: How to Improve?
Authors: Giacomelli Luca , Sacco Rodolfo , Papa Simonetta , Carr Brian I.
Published: February 2023

Tumor stage definition is required for the description of the diagnosis and the development and use of treatment guidelines, as well as to enable clinical research (including clinical trials) and cancer surveillance [...]
An Integrative Analysis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Genomes Unraveled Unique Processes Driving a Viral-Positive Cancer
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Li Yanjin , Zhou Xiang , Zhu Sinan , Kaya Neslihan A. , Chan Yun Shen , Ma Liang , Xu Miao , Zhai Weiwei
Published: February 2023

As one of few viral-positive cancers, nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is extremely rare across the world but very frequent in several regions of the world, including Southern China (known as the Cantonese cancer). Even though several genomic studies have been conducted for NPC, their sample sizes are relatively small and systematic comparison with other cancer types has not been explored. In this study, we collected four-hundred-thirty-one samples from six previous studies and provided the first integrative analysis of NPC genomes. Combining several statistical methods for detecting driver genes, we identified 25 novel drivers for NPC, including ATG14 and NLRC5. Many of these novel drivers are enriched in several important pathways, such as autophagy and immunity. By comparing NPC with many other cancer types, we found NPC is a unique cancer type in which a high proportion of patients (45.2%) do not have any known driver mutations (termed as “missing driver events”) but have a preponderance of deletion events, including chromosome 3p deletion. Through signature analysis, we identified many known and novel signatures, including single-base signatures (n = 12), double-base signatures (n = 1), indel signatures (n = 9) and copy number signatures (n = 8). Many of these new signatures are involved in DNA repair and have unknown etiology and genome instability, implying an unprecedented dynamic mutational process possibly driven by complex interactions between viral and host genomes. By combining clinical, molecular and intra-tumor heterogeneity features, we constructed the first integrative survival model for NPC, providing a strong basis for patient prognosis and stratification. Taken together, we have performed one of the first integrative analyses of NPC genomes and brought unique genomic insights into tumorigenesis of a viral-driven cancer.
The Identification of Risk Factors for Symptomatic Spinal Metastasis Onset: A Prospective Cohort Study of 128 Asymptomatic Spinal Metastasis Patients
Authors: Kakutani Kenichiro , Kanda Yutaro , Yurube Takashi , Takeoka Yoshiki , Miyazaki Kunihiko , Ohnishi Hiroki , Matsuo Tomoya , Ryu Masao , Kuroshima Kohei , Kumagai Naotoshi , Hiranaka Yoshiaki , Hayashi Shinya , Hoshino Yuichi , Hara Hitomi , Sakai Yoshitada , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: February 2023

Background: Symptomatic spinal metastasis (SSM) decreases the activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life of cancer patients. However, the risk factors for SSM onset remain unclear. This prospective cohort study aimed to statistically analyze the significant risk factors. Methods: From 2016 to 2018, 210 consecutive patients with spinal metastases were prospectively registered. Patients with SSM at the first consultation and those who were unable to be followed-up owing to poor general condition were excluded. The demographic factors (age, sex, primary cancer, performance status, and ADL), clinical factors (radiation therapy, chemotherapy, molecularly targeted drugs, and bone-modifying agents (BMAs)), and Spinal Neoplastic Instability Score (SINS) were evaluated. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for SSM onset. Furthermore, the threshold was calculated from the receiver operating characteristic curve using the Youden index. Results: Thirty-nine patients who presented with SSM at the first consultation and 43 patients who were unable to be followed-up owing to poor general condition were excluded. Finally, 128 asymptomatic patients were included. Thirty-seven patients (28.9%) developed SSM during the follow-up period. The total SINS (OR: 1.739; 95% CI: 1.345–2.250) was identified as the most significant factor. The cut-off value of the SINS was 9.5 (sensitivity: 67.6%; specificity: 83.5%). Twenty-five (62.5%) of the forty patients with a SINS ≥ 10 developed SSM within a mean of 5.5 months (95% CI: 1.17–9.83). Furthermore, all patients with a SINS ≥ 13 developed SSM (n = 5) within a mean of 1.37 months (95% CI: 0.0–3.01). Conclusions: This study identified the significant risk factors for SSM onset and the threshold of the SINS. If long-term survival is expected, patients with a SINS ≥ 10 should be considered for intervention to prevent SSM.
Modeling Human Brain Tumors and the Microenvironment Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Khamis Zahraa I. , Sarker Drishty B. , Xue Yu , Al-Akkary Nancy , James Viviana D. , Zeng Changchun , Li Yan , Sang Qing-Xiang Amy
Published: February 2023

Brain cancer is a group of diverse and rapidly growing malignancies that originate in the central nervous system (CNS) and have a poor prognosis. The complexity of brain structure and function makes brain cancer modeling extremely difficult, limiting pathological studies and therapeutic developments. Advancements in human pluripotent stem cell technology have opened a window of opportunity for brain cancer modeling, providing a wealth of customizable methods to simulate the disease in vitro. This is achieved with the advent of genome editing and genetic engineering technologies that can simulate germline and somatic mutations found in human brain tumors. This review investigates induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based approaches to model human brain cancer. The applications of iPSCs as renewable sources of individual brain cell types, brain organoids, blood–brain barrier (BBB), and brain tumor models are discussed. The brain tumor models reviewed are glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. The iPSC-derived isogenic cells and three-dimensional (3D) brain cancer organoids combined with patient-derived xenografts will enhance future compound screening and drug development for these deadly human brain cancers.
Challenges to Recruiting Men on Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer in Clinical Chemoprevention Trials
Authors: Kumar Nagi B. , Bahl Saira , Dhillon Jasreman , Poch Michael , Manley Brandon , Li Roger , Schell Michael , Powsang Julio
Published: February 2023

Clinical trials play a critical role in evidence-based medicine, when rigorous scientific methodology is utilized to discover and test the effectiveness and safety of new drugs to prevent or cure diseases, including cancer. Participation in clinical trials thus becomes key to successful completion of these trials. Although it is estimated that >70% of Americans are inclined to participate in clinical trials, less than 5% of adult cancer patients participate in clinical trials. There is thus a large gap between those inclined to participate in clinical trials and actual participation in clinical trials. As with trials targeting men with prostate cancer (PCa) on active surveillance (AS), where the target population is mostly over 50 years of age, others have observed several challenges with recruitment and accrual in clinical trials. The participation rate is currently unavailable for men on primary and secondary chemoprevention trials. Additionally, with unanticipated environmental factors such as a pandemic or other natural emergencies that may severely impact the economy, personal property, travel and person-to person contact for study-related procedures, there is a need to continuously identify these challenges and determine solutions to recruitment barriers in chemoprevention trials to ensure timely completion of early phase trials. Recent studies regarding the impact of the pandemic on clinical trial recruitment have shown that cancer prevention trials were relatively more negatively impacted compared to cancer treatment trials. The goal of this manuscript is to review our experience in continuously evaluating the protocol and patient level challenges to recruiting subjects on AS for PCa in this cancer chemoprevention trial conducted at the Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) and report the contemporary strategies that we are utilizing to continue to recruit subjects in this trial. We provide data from our current trial as an example while discussing future strategies to improve overall clinical trial recruitment. These strategies can inform future design of contemporary cancer chemoprevention trials and, additionally, better select, focus and invest in strategies that are the most productive and efficient for recruiting target populations.
Radical Prostatectomy without Prior Biopsy in Patients with High Suspicion of Prostate Cancer Based on Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Positron Emission Tomography: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chaloupka Michael , Apfelbeck Maria , Pyrgidis Nikolaos , Marcon Julian , Weinhold Philipp , Stief Christian G.
Published: February 2023

Modern risk stratification of prostate cancer (PCa) allows for prediction of advanced disease with a high level of certainty. We aimed to evaluate a prospective series of patients undergoing radical prostatectomy without prior biopsy based solely on clinical criteria and imaging results. The patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 included 27 patients with: (i) suspicious digital rectal examination, (ii) PSA ≥ 10 ng/mL, (iii) PI-RADS 4/5 on mpMRI, and (iv) high suspicion of PCa on PSMA-PET. Group 2 included six patients who fulfilled criteria i, ii, and iii but did not undergo PSMA-PET imaging. Group 3 included 17 patients with at least one clinical (i or ii) and one imaging (iii or iv) criterion. All of the patients were diagnosed with PCa. Comparison of Group 1 and 2 versus Group 3 showed a significantly higher ratio of locally advanced PCa for Groups 1 and 2 compared to Group 3 (60.6% versus 11.8%, p = 0.005, respectively). Similarly, these patients displayed a significantly higher ratio of aggressive PCa (ISUP grade > 2: 66.7% versus 23.5%, p = 0.027, respectively) and tumor infiltration (median tumor infiltration: 32.5% vs. 15%, p = 0.001, respectively) in the final specimen compared to Group 3. In conclusion, we have shown that radical prostatectomy without prior biopsy is safe in terms of the diagnosis of clinically significant PCa when proper preoperative risk stratification involving mpMRI and PSMA-PET imaging is applied.