bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A tutorial on the physics of light and image shading
Authors: Todd James T.
Published: October 2024

This paper provides an overview of the many different ways that light interacts with surfaces in the natural environment to provide useful information for visual perception. It begins with a discussion of how the concept of light has evolved over the course of human history. It then considers a wide variety of optical phenomena including Lambert's laws of illumination, the effects of microscopic surface structure on patterns of reflection, the bidirectional reflectance distribution function, the refraction of transmitted light, chromatic dispersion, thin film interference, sub-surface scattering, the Fresnel effects, indirect illumination from multiple reflections, caustics, and the structure of the light field. The primary goal of this discussion is to provide the necessary background information to help students and young researchers more easily understand the scientific literature on the perception of 3D shape and material properties from patterns of image shading.
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an integrated digital psychological intervention (EmoEase) in Chinese chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Simiao , Chen Wenjin , Li Yanfei , Yu Yiwen , Chen Qiushi , Jiao Lirui , Huang Ke , Tong Xunliang , Geldsetzer Pascal , Bunker Aditi , Fang Xingyuan , Jing Shu , Liu Yuhao , Li Yanming , He Liu , Wang Chao , Wang Weiyu , Zheng Zhoutao , Zhang Shiyu , Zhao Jinghan , Yang Ting , Bärnighausen Till , Wang Chen
Published: October 2024

Background

Mental health problems in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common and frequently neglected. Digital psychological interventions may reduce mental health problems, but their effectiveness has not been evaluated in the Chinese COPD population. In this study, we will develop an integrated digital psychological intervention ( EmoEase) and evaluate its effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in enhancing the mental wellbeing of patients with COPD in China.

Methods

This study is a multicenter, two-arm, randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a parallel-group design to enroll at least 420 patients with COPD with age over 35 years. Participants will be assigned to receive either usual care (control group) or usual care + EmoEase (intervention group). Assessments will take place at baseline (T0) and 4 weeks (T1), 8 weeks (T2), and 16 weeks (T3) after baseline, and participants will be asked to complete questionnaires and physical measurements. The primary outcome measure will assess mental wellbeing using the Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS). Secondary outcome measures will assess mental health, physical health, COPD symptoms, health risk behaviors, socioeconomic indicators, and healthcare utilization and expenditure. Analyses will utilize an intention-to-treat approach.

Discussion

This is the first RCT to examine the value of EmoEase, a novel digital psychological intervention for patients with COPD. If this intervention is effective and cost-effective, it could be rapidly scaled up to provide mental healthcare for patients with COPD in China.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06026709. Date of first submission: 30 August 2023. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06026709
Transgressive teaching and the Kingdom of God: Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Teaching to Transgress
Authors: Cartagena Nathan L , Corple Danielle J
Published: October 2024

This year marks the 30th anniversary of bell hooks’ critical pedagogy classic, Teaching to Transgress. In her book, hooks offers a Black feminist perspective on education as the practice of freedom, putting forward an “engaged pedagogy” that seeks to foster healing and liberation for both teachers and students. This essay aims to honor hooks’ influential text by identifying how it has shaped our efforts to develop kingdom pedagogies. Through a collaborative Christian dialogue, we illuminate how Teaching to Transgress can empower Christian educators to resist domination, cultivate embodied vulnerability, and pursue teaching and learning as a healing enterprise.
Computed tomography patterns and clinical outcomes of radiation pneumonitis in non–small-cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Choi Ji Hoon , Kang Hee , Lim Ji Su , Lee Ki-Nam
Published: October 2024

Background

Radiation pneumonitis (RP) is not an uncommon complication in lung cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT) and symptomatic RP can affect their quality of life.

Purpose

To investigate the CT findings of RP in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and their relationship with clinical outcomes.

Materials and methods

We reviewed data from 240 NSCLC patients who underwent RT between 2014 and 2022. CT findings of RP were evaluated for parenchymal abnormalities and distribution, which were then classified into three patterns: localized pneumonia (LP), cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), and acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP). Clinical outcomes of RP were evaluated based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) grade.

Results

Of the 153 patients, 135 developed RP. The most common pattern was LP ( n = 78), followed by COP ( n = 30) and AIP ( n = 25). Among the three CT patterns, CTCAE grade and days between the start of RT and the onset of RP (RT-RP days) were statistically significantly different ( p < 0.05). The patients with AIP patterns exhibited higher CTCAE grade, and fewer RT-RP days compared to those with non-AIP patterns ( p < 0.05). In these patients, lung-to-lung metastasis and underlying interstitial lung abnormality were observed more frequently ( p < 0.05). Underlying pulmonary fibrosis, the AIP pattern, and higher CT extent scores were more frequently observed in higher CTCAE grade group ( p < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, age, bilateral distribution, RT-RP days, and CT extent score ≥3 were independent predicting factors for higher CTCAE grade.

Conclusions

RP in NSCLC patients can be classified into LP, COP, and AIP patterns and they exhibit different severities in clinical outcomes.
Categorization of Typical and Atypical Combinations of Excitations and Resonators of Musical Instruments: Assimilation of the Unusual to the Familiar
Authors: Huynh Erica Ying , McAdams Stephen
Published: October 2024

Sound categorization is automatic, yet very little is known about how this process works. Physical sound sources such as musical instruments generate sounds that carry timbral information about two mechanical components: The excitation sets into vibration the resonator, which acts as a filter to amplify, suppress, and radiate sound components. Given that excitation–resonator interactions are quite limited in the physical world, Modalys, a digital, physically inspired modeling platform, was utilized to simulate the combinations of three excitations (bowing, blowing, striking) and three resonators (string, air column, plate). This formed nine types of interactions, which are either typical (e.g., struck string) or atypical (e.g., blown plate). In two separate categorization tasks, participants chose either the excitation or resonator they thought produced each interaction. For the typical interactions, participants accurately categorized their excitations and resonators. Atypical interactions were assimilated to typical ones and listeners identified either the correct excitation or the correct resonator but not both. Hierarchical clustering revealed that interactions were perceived differently depending on the categorization task. These findings suggest that unfamiliar sound sources are interpreted as conforming to familiar sound sources for which mental models exist. These studies consequently exemplify the role of timbre in sound source recognition.
The Effect of Osteopenia and Osteoporosis on Screw Loosening in MIS-TLIF and Dynamic Stabilization
Authors: Chang Hsuan-Kan , Chang Chih-Chang , Cheng Yu-Wen , Wu Ching-Lan , Tu Tsung-Hsi , Wu Jau-Ching , Huang Wen-Cheng
Published: October 2024

Study Design

Retrospective series.

Objective

Screw loosening in the surgical treatment of lumbar spine disease is a major complication of osteopenia or osteoporosis. This study investigated the risk of screw loosening following either MIS-TLIF or pedicle screw-based dynamic stabilization (DS) in patients with osteopenia or osteoporosis.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled patients receiving 1- or 2-level MIS-TLIF or DS in a single institute. All patients were diagnosed as having lumbar spondylosis without concurrent spondylolisthesis and found by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to have osteopenia or osteoporosis. Screw loosening was identified by X-ray and CT. Clinical outcomes were also assessed.

Results

A total of 103 patients (50 MIS-TLIF and 53 DS) were confirmed to have osteopenia (−2.5<T-score < −1.0) or osteoporosis (T-score≦-2.5). The two groups, which were followed for 33.6 ± 24.7 and 52 ± 34.5 months, had similar T-scores (−1.97 ± 0.7 and −1.97 ± 0.6, respectively, P = 0.960). While both groups had significant improvements in back and leg pain assessed by VAS, ODI, and JOA scores, there was a significant difference in overall screw loosening rates between the MIS-TLIF and DS groups analyzed by percent of patients 38% and 18.9% ( P = 0.039*) and by percent of screws 16.9% and 8% ( P = 0.002*), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed a significant difference in screw loosening rate in osteopenia patients ( P = 0.039* by person; P = 0.002* by screw), but no difference in osteoporosis patients.

Conclusion

The screw loosening rate was higher in the MIS-TLIF group in the entire cohort. Osteopenia patients receiving MIS-TLIF were at significantly higher risk of screw loosening, while that risk was not different for osteoporosis patients, compared to DS.
Controlled Substance Use in Plastic Surgery Related Emergency Department Visits: An NEISS Study of Burn, Hand, and Face Injuries
Authors: Brozynski Martina , Nathaniel Sarah , Seyidova Nargiz , Oleru Olachi , Mandelbaum Max , Russel Jeffery , Taub Peter J
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Psychoactive substance use is often a complicating factor in injury that requires an emergency room visit. The present study examined data recorded in the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database for patients who presented to an Emergency Department (ED) and had psychoactive substance involvement, requiring management by plastic surgery. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using the NEISS database, from 2019 to 2021. Data from patients aged 0 to 102 who suffered burns (46, 47, 48, 49, 51, and 73), face injuries (76), hand injuries (34, 82, and 92), and had psychoactive substance use were queried. Data regarding the specific substances involved were collected. Analysis was performed using SAS to compare the incidence of various substances and the differences in admission status with psychoactive substance use. Results: According to the NEISS estimates, in the United States, 597,916 patients visited the ED for burns, 3,671,677 for facial injuries, and 6,230,087 for hand injuries from January 2019 to December 2021. Across this population, psychoactive substance use was noted in 5605 patients with burn (0.9%), 31,198 with facial (0.8%), and 26,174 with hand (0.4%) injuries. Across all 3 injury types, the total rate of admission was 20% in the substance-use population, and 5% in the nonsubstance-use population. Conclusions: For injuries presenting to the ED that require plastic surgery management, patients with documented psychoactive substance use have higher rates of admission. Given these higher rates of admission, it is important for providers to be aware of differences in the incidences of various substances and the potential for withdrawal.
Comparison of a Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation Method and the Banff Patella Instability Instrument 2.0 for Patients With Patellofemoral Instability
Authors: Gebhardt Sebastian , Flügel Julian , Wassilew Georgi I. , Balcarek Peter
Published: October 2024

Background:

The concept of Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) has been introduced for several clinical entities; however, a validated SANE focusing on patients with patellofemoral instability has not been described.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the expressiveness of SANE questions (SQs) for the assessment of patients experiencing patellofemoral instability. It was hypothesized that the complexity of patellofemoral instability cannot be demonstrated by a single question.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Between October 2022 and March 2023, 120 consecutive patients (male/female, 50/70; mean age, 23.9 ± 8.0 years; mean body mass index, 25.3 ± 5.1 kg/m2) with patellofemoral instability were assessed with the Banff Patella Instability Instrument 2.0 (BPII 2.0). Patients were randomized into 3 groups (40 patients each) and asked to answer 1 of 3 SQs: “How do you rate your knee joint if a completely stable kneecap means 100%?” (SQ 1), “How do you rate your knee joint if complete satisfaction means 100%?” (SQ 2), and “How do you rate your knee joint if complete normal function means 100%?” (SQ 3). Means ± standard deviations were compared using 1-way analysis of variance, the correlation between BPII 2.0 and each SQ was assessed by Pearson correlation, and Bland-Altmann analysis was performed to investigate biases of each SQ in comparison with BPII 2.0.

Results:

The mean BPII 2.0 score was 40.5 ± 16.8 points, and the mean results of SQ 1, SQ 2, and SQ 3 were 44.2% ± 26.0%, 42.6% ± 25.4%, and 44.2% ± 18.9%, respectively, without significant differences between the groups (all P > .05). The correlations between BPII 2.0 and SQ 1, SQ 2, and SQ 3 were high ( r = 0.75; 95% CI, 0.58 to 0.86; P < .0001), low ( r = 0.35; 95% CI, –0.05 to 0.6; P = .02), and low ( r = 0.31; 95% CI, –0.002 to 0.56; P = .051), respectively. Bland-Altman analysis between BPII 2.0 and SQ 1, SQ 2, and SQ 3 revealed biases of −0.12 (SD, 17.1), –1.45 (SD, 24.4), and −8.0 (SD, 19.4), respectively.

Conclusion:

The SQ “How do you rate your knee joint if a completely stable kneecap means 100%?” demonstrated concurrent validity with the BPII 2.0 and may serve as a helpful tool to quickly assess patients with recurrent patellofemoral instability in a preoperative setting.
Mitigating Impact of Media and Marketing on the Body Image and Mental Health of Adolescents
Authors: Sravanti Lakshmi , Kommu John Vijay Sagar
Published: October 2024

This perspective briefly discusses the impact of media and gender-based marketing on the body image and mental health of adolescents. It proposes a multipronged approach combining education, media reforms, supportive environment, regulatory measures, and positive messaging to foster healthy body image and self-esteem among adolescents.
A tale of two prisons: Investigating the social climate of small prisons using a mixed methods design
Authors: Peart Sarah J , Niekerk Leesa Van , Norris Kimberley
Published: October 2024

Prison climate can have considerable impact on the behaviours of incarcerated individuals both in custody and on release. This study is the first study to use a mixed methods approach to explore the perceptions of prison climate among prisoners and staff at two small Australian prisons. The quantitative research component measured prisoner ( n = 117) and staff ( n = 117) ratings of prison climate using the Essen Climate Evaluation Schema (EssenCES) questionnaire. Results highlighted that, overall, prison staff rated prison climate as more supportive than prisoners did and that prisoners and staff in the lower security prison rated the prison climate as safer and more cohesive than prisoners and staff in the higher security prison. The qualitative research component consisted of semi-structured interviews with prisoners ( n = 16) and a range of prison staff ( n = 17). The qualitative analysis revealed a more detailed understanding of the perceived differences between the two prisons with most participants articulating agreed values and behaviours that are important to a more positive and supportive prison climate. Barriers to a positive prison climate were also identified. This research contributes a unique perspective on prison climate by using both qualitative and quantitative measure to examine the perceptions of those living and working in small prisons.
Systemic factors in modern renewable energy development across national income categories
Authors: Adeniran Olusanmi
Published: October 2024

The need for a more sustainable environment with reduced carbon emissions to preserve our climate necessitates increasing the renewable mix of total electric power generation. To achieve the goals set in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, various stakeholders including governments, investors, end-users, etc. need to duly play their part. However, there is still a need for a greater understanding of the systemic factors at local and global levels amongst the various stakeholders to better realize this objective. Some countries are already meeting their targets while others lag. This review article presents the key systemic factors influencing the success of renewable energy programs across national income categories. It discusses systems factors, national economies, energy capacities, and social effects, and examines the impact of policy instruments and targets on renewable energy deployment. The importance of national governments’ commitment to local targets is highlighted, along with the effects of policy development, planning, technologies, supply chains, etc.
SimplySmart_v1, a new tool for the analysis of DNA damage optimized in primary neuronal cultures
Authors: Koirala Sushma , Sharma Harman , Chew Yee Lian , Konopka Anna
Published: October 2024

Background

The increased interest in research on DNA damage in neurodegeneration has created a need for the development of tools dedicated to the analysis of DNA damage in neurons. Double-stranded breaks (DSBs) are among the most detrimental types of DNA damage and have become a subject of intensive research. DSBs result in DNA damage foci, which are detectable with the marker γH2AX. Manual counting of DNA damage foci is challenging and biased, and there is a lack of open-source programs optimized specifically in neurons. Thus, we developed a new, fully automated application, SimplySmart_v1, for DNA damage quantification and optimized its performance specifically in primary neurons cultured in vitro.

Results

Compared with control neurons, SimplySmart_v1 accurately identifies the induction of DNA damage with etoposide in primary neurons. It also accurately quantifies DNA damage in the desired fraction of cells and processes a batch of images within a few seconds. SimplySmart_v1 was also capable of quantifying DNA damage effectively regardless of the cell type (neuron or NSC-34). The comparative analysis of SimplySmart_v1 with other open-source tools, such as Fiji, CellProfiler and a focinator, revealed that SimplySmart_v1 is the most ‘user-friendly’ and the quickest tool among others and provides highly accurate results free of variability between measurements. In the context of neurodegenerative research, SimplySmart_v1 revealed an increase in DNA damage in primary neurons expressing abnormal TAR DNA/RNA binding protein (TDP-43).

Conclusions

These findings showed that SimplySmart_v1 is a new and effective tool for research on DNA damage and can successfully replace other available software.
Transcriptome analysis reveals biosynthesis and regulation of flavonoid in common bean seeds during grain filling
Authors: Tapia Gerardo , Gonzalez Máximo , Méndez José , Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo , Arrey Oscar , Carrasco Basilio , Nina Nélida , Salas-Burgos Alexis , Jimenéz-Aspee Felipe , Arevalo Barbara
Published: October 2024

The Andean domesticated common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are significant sources of phenolic compounds associated with health benefits. However, the regulation of biosynthesis of these compounds during bean seed development remains unclear. To elucidate the gene expression patterns involved in the regulation of the flavonoid pathway, we conducted a transcriptome analysis of two contrasting Chilean varieties, Negro Argel (black bean) and Coscorron (white bean), at three developmental stages associated with seed color change, as well as different flavonoid compound accumulations. Our study reveals that phenolic compound synthesis initiates during seed filling, although it exhibits desynchronization between both varieties. We identified 10,153 Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) across all comparisons. The KEGG pathway ‘Flavonoid biosynthesis’ showed enrichment of induced DEGs in Negro Argel (PV172), consistent with the accumulation of delphinidin, petunidin, and malvidin hexosides in their seeds, while catechin glucoside, procyanidin and kaempferol derivatives were predominantly detected in Coscorrón (PV24). Furthermore, while the flavonoid pathway was active in both varieties, our results suggest that enzymes involved in the final steps, such as ANS and UGT, were crucial, inducing anthocyanin formation in Negro Argel. Additionally, during active anthocyanin biosynthesis, the accumulation of reserve proteins or those related to seed protection and germination was induced. These findings provide valuable insights and serve as a guide for plant breeding aimed at enhancing the health and nutritional properties of common beans.
The EAT-Lancet diet associated cardiovascular health parameters: evidence from a Brazilian study
Authors: de Oliveira Neta Rosa Sá , Lima Severina Carla Vieira Cunha , Medeiros Maria Fernanda Araújo de , Araújo David Bruno Melo , Bernardi Nicole , de Araújo Armando Augusto Noberto Galdino , Jacob Michelle Cristine Medeiros , Neta Adélia da Costa Pereira de Arruda , Marchioni Dirce Maria Lobo , Lyra Clélia de Oliveira , da Costa Oliveira Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli
Published: October 2024

Background

The EAT-Lancet diet is a diet aimed at promoting population and planetary health from the perspective of sustainable diets in terms of environmental and health aspects. This study aimed to assess the association between adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet and cardiometabolic risk factors among adults and elderly individuals in a capital city in the northeastern region of Brazil.

Methods

This is an analytical cross-sectional observational study from a population-based sample conducted between 2019 and 2020, involving 398 non-institutionalized adults and elderly people, of both sexes from “Brazilian Usual Consumption Assessment” study (Brazuca-Natal). There was a 38% response rate due to the suspension of data collection due to the covid-19 pandemic, but According to the comparative analysis of socioeconomic and demographic variables between the surveyed and non-surveyed sectors, losses were found to be random (p = 0.135, Little’s MCAR test). Socioeconomic and lifestyle data, anthropometric measurements, and dietary consumption were collected. We used the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) and the Cardiovascular Health Diet Index (CHDI) for cardiovascular health to assess adherence to the diet’s sustainability. The evaluated cardiometabolic parameters included fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements. We also assessed the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, and dyslipidemia. For the data analyses, sample weights and the effect of the study design were taken into account. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to evaluate the statistical significance of frequencies. Multiple linear regression models assessed the associations between PHDI and CHDI and its components and the cardiometabolic parameters.

Results

The mean PHDI was 29.4 (95% CI 28.04:30.81), on a total score ranging from 0 to 150 points and the mean CHDI was 32.63 (95% CI 31.50:33.78), on a total score ranging from 0 to 110 points. PHDI showed a significant positive association with the final CHDI score and components of fruits, vegetables, and legumes, and a negative association with Ultra-processed Food (UPF) (p < 0.05). Notably, among the most consumed UPF, the following stand out: “packaged snacks, shoestring potatoes, and crackers” (16.94%), followed by margarine (14.14%). The PHDI exhibited a significant association with diabetes and dyslipidemia, as well as with systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL-C.

Conclusions

The results suggest that adopting the EAT-Lancet diet is associated with the improvement of key cardiovascular health indicators.
Superior long-term patency of no-touch vein graft compared to conventional vein grafts in over 1500 consecutive patients
Authors: Ferrari Gabriele , Loayza Richard , Azari Ava , Geijer Håkan , Cao Yang , Carlsson Roland , Bojö Leif , Samano Ninos , Souza Domingos
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the long-term angiographic patency of saphenous vein grafts (SVG) harvested using the no-touch technique compared to the conventional technique.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective, cohort study. The inclusion criteria were individuals who underwent a CABG (coronary artery bypass grafting) between January 1995 and July 2020, and who successively needed a clinically-driven angiography. The primary endpoint was long-term patency. The secondary endpoints were differences in patency based on sub-group analysis (single vs. sequential graft, divided by target vessel).

Results

The study included 1520 individuals (618 no-touch, 825 conventional and 77 arterial grafts). The mean clinical follow-up time was 8.4 years ± 5.5 years. The patency per patient was 70.7% in the no-touch grafts vs. 46.7% in the conventional grafts (p < 0.001, OR = 2.8). The graft patency was 75.9% in the no-touch grafts vs. 62.8% in the conventional grafts (p < 0.001, OR = 1.8).

Conclusions

The no-touch vein grafts were associated with statistically significantly higher patency at long-term compared to the conventional grafts.

Clinical trial registration

NCT04656366, 7 December 2020.
Secondary traumatization in refugee care—EMDR intervention for interpreters (STEIN): a study protocol for a quasi-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rzepka Irja , Kindermann David , Friederich Hans-Christoph , Nikendei Christoph
Published: October 2024

Background

By the end of 2022, more than 100 million people worldwide fled their homes. Before, during and after their flight, refugees have high risk of experiencing traumatic events. Accordingly, around every third refugee is affected by posttraumatic stress disorder. For adequate mental health care, the service of interpreters is often urgently needed to overcome existing language barriers. However, repeated exposure with details of traumatic narratives, as experienced by interpreters, can be burdensome and can lead to trauma sequela symptoms in terms of secondary traumatic stress. Only few studies have examined the treatment of secondary traumatic stress to date. Based on the recommendations for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder with confrontational methods, this study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of an eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) intervention in a sample of interpreters working in refugee care suffering from secondary traumatic stress symptoms.

Methods

To evaluate the effectiveness of an EMDR intervention for the treatment of secondary traumatic stress symptoms, a quasi-randomized controlled trial using a waiting group design will be performed. Participants will be treated with a maximum of 6 sessions based on EMDR standard protocol. Primary outcome is the symptom load of secondary traumatic stress, assessed with the Questionnaire for Secondary Traumatization, while secondary outcomes comprise further symptom complexes such as PTSD due to self-experienced traumatic events, depression, anxiety, and somatization as well as quality of life, quality of professional life, and psychological wellbeing that will be assessed with the PDS, PHQ-9, GAD-7, SSD-12, SF-12, PROQOL-5, and WHO-5, respectively.

Discussion

Our primary interest is to determine the efficacy of an EMDR intervention in interpreters affected by secondary traumatic stress, especially how many sessions are needed for significant symptom reduction. Change of associated symptom complexes and quality of life will be investigated. Reprocessing one’s own stressful experiences may also contribute to this, which is not the focus of the treatment but relevant to the EMDR protocol. This study aims to assess if EMDR could be an acceptable, effective, and time-efficient method for reducing work-related secondary traumatization.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00032092, registered 16 June 2023.
Transcription and post-translational mechanisms: dual regulation of adiponectin-mediated Occludin expression in diabetes
Authors: Duan Yanru , Liu Demin , Yu Huahui , Zhang Shihan , Xia Yihua , Du Zhiyong , Qin Yanwen , Wang Yajing , Ma Xinliang , Liu Huirong , Du Yunhui
Published: October 2024

Background

Occludin, a crucial component of tight junctions, has emerged as a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of acute ischemic disease, highlighting its significant potential in clinical applications. In the diabetes, Occludin serves as a downstream target gene intricately regulated by the adiponectin (APN) signaling pathway. However, the specific mechanism by which adiponectin regulates Occludin expression remains unclear.

Methods and results

Endothelial-specific Ocln knockdown reduced APN-mediated blood flow recovery after femoral artery ligation and nullified APN's protection against high-fat diet (HFD)-triggered apoptosis and angiogenesis inhibition in vivo. Mechanically, we have meticulously elucidated APN's regulatory role in Occludin expression through a comprehensive analysis spanning transcriptional and post-translational dimensions. Foxo1 has been elucidated as a crucial transcriptional regulator of Occludin that is modulated by the APN/APPL1 signaling axis, as evidenced by validation through ChIP-qPCR assays and Western blot analysis. APN hindered Occludin degradation via the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. Mass spectrometry analysis has recently uncovered a novel phosphorylation site, Tyr467, on Occludin. This site responds to APN, playing a crucial role in inhibiting Occludin ubiquitination by APN. The anti-apoptotic and pro-angiogenic effects of APN were attenuated in vitro and in vivo following Foxo1 knockdown or expression of a non-phosphorylatable mutant, OccludinY467A. Clinically, elevated plasma concentrations of Occludin were observed in patients with diabetes. A significant negative correlation was found between Occludin levels and APN concentrations.

Conclusion

Our study proposes that APN modulates Occludin expression through mechanisms involving both transcriptional and post-translational interactions, thereby conferring a protective effect on endothelial integrity within diabetic vasculature.

Graphical abstract
Strain-resolved de-novo metagenomic assembly of viral genomes and microbial 16S rRNAs
Authors: Jochheim Annika , Jochheim Florian A. , Kolodyazhnaya Alexandra , Morice Étienne , Steinegger Martin , Söding Johannes
Published: October 2024

Background

Metagenomics is a powerful approach to study environmental and human-associated microbial communities and, in particular, the role of viruses in shaping them. Viral genomes are challenging to assemble from metagenomic samples due to their genomic diversity caused by high mutation rates. In the standard de Bruijn graph assemblers, this genomic diversity leads to complex k-mer assembly graphs with a plethora of loops and bulges that are challenging to resolve into strains or haplotypes because variants more than the k-mer size apart cannot be phased. In contrast, overlap assemblers can phase variants as long as they are covered by a single read.

Results

Here, we present PenguiN, a software for strain resolved assembly of viral DNA and RNA genomes and bacterial 16S rRNA from shotgun metagenomics. Its exhaustive detection of all read overlaps in linear time combined with a Bayesian model to select strain-resolved extensions allow it to assemble longer viral contigs, less fragmented genomes, and more strains than existing assembly tools, on both real and simulated datasets. We show a 3–40-fold increase in complete viral genomes and a 6-fold increase in bacterial 16S rRNA genes.

Conclusion

PenguiN is the first overlap-based assembler for viral genome and 16S rRNA assembly from large and complex metagenomic datasets, which we hope will facilitate studying the key roles of viruses in microbial communities.
The association between arterial stiffness and socioeconomic status: a cross-sectional study using estimated pulse wave velocity
Authors: Kim Hack-Lyoung , Kwon Soonil , Joh Hyun Sung , Lim Woo-Hyun , Seo Jae-Bin , Kim Sang-Hyun , Zo Joo-Hee , Kim Myung-A
Published: October 2024

Background

The impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on arterial stiffness remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between both personal and household income, as well as education level, and estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV).

Methods

A total of 13,539 participants (mean age 52.9 ± 16.7 years; 57.1% women) from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Survey database were analyzed. For SES variables, information on personal and household income and education level was collected using standardized questionnaires.

Results

The ePWV did not show significant differences across groups categorized by individual income levels (P = 0.183). However, there was a noticeable trend of decreasing ePWV with increasing household income levels (P < 0.001). Additionally, ePWV demonstrated a significant negative correlation with higher education levels, indicating that ePWV decreased in groups with higher educational attainment (P < 0.001). In multiple linear regression analyses, both household income (β = -0.055; P < 0.001) and education level (β = -0.076; P < 0.001) were negatively associated with ePWV, even after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusions

Lower household income and lower education levels were associated with higher ePWV, providing further evidence of the influence of SES on arterial stiffness.

Graphical abstract
The efficacy of surgery over stereotactic radiosurgery in the management of tumor-related trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Abouharb Alexander , Rathnayake Hasithe , Mehta Sachit
Published: October 2024

Tumor-related trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a deeply debilitating condition that severely impacts patient quality of life. Two principal treatment methods in use are open surgical resection of the causative tumor or the use of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). In this letter, we aim to evaluate the use of both treatment methods and highlight that in patients with commensurate anatomy, open surgical resection continues to provide greater rates of symptomatic relief, lower rates of recurrence, and complication compared to stereotactic radiosurgery.
Effectiveness of hybrid simulation training on medical student performance in whole-task consultation of cardiac patients: The ASSIMILATE EXCELLENCE randomized waitlist-controlled trial
Authors: Daly Michael , Mulhall Claire , O’Neill James , Eppich Walter , Shpigelman Jonathan , Cahir Caitriona , Fraughen Daniel , McElduff Enda , Uhomoibhi Catherine , Condron Claire
Published: October 2024

Background

Assessment of comprehensive consultations in medicine, i.e. a complete history, physical examination, and differential diagnosis, is regarded as authentic tests of clinical competence; however, they have been shown to have low reliability and validity due to variability in the real patients used and subjective examiner grading. In the ASSIMILATE EXCELLENCE study, our aim was to assess the effect(s) of expert tuition with hybrid simulation using a simulated patient wearing a novel auscultation vest, i.e. a hybrid simulated patient, and repeated peer grading using scoring checklists on student learning, performance, and acumen in comprehensive consultations of patients with valvular heart disease.

Methods

ASSIMILATE EXCELLENCE was a randomized waitlist-controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment undertaken between February 2021 and November 2021. Students at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in either the second or third year of the four-year graduate-entry medical degree programme were randomized to a hybrid simulation training or waitlist control group and undertook three consultation assessments of three different clinical presentations of valvular heart disease (cases: C1–C3) using hybrid simulation. Our primary outcome was the difference in total score between and within groups across time; a secondary outcome was any change in inter-rater reliability across time. Students self-reported their proficiency and confidence in comprehensive consultations using a pre- and post-study survey.

Results

Included were 68 students (age 27.6 ± 0.1 years; 74% women). Overall, total score was 39.6% (35.6, 44.9) in C1 and increased to 63.6% (56.7, 66.7) in C3 (P < .001). On intergroup analysis, a significant difference was observed between groups in C2 only (54.2 ± 7.1% vs. 45.6 ± 9.2%; P < .001), a finding that was mainly driven by a difference in physical examination score. On intragroup analysis, significant improvement in total score across time between cases was also observed. Intraclass correlation coefficients for each pair of assessors were excellent (0.885–0.996 [0.806, 0.998]) in all cases. Following participation, students’ confidence in comprehensive consultation assessments improved, and they felt more prepared for their future careers.

Conclusions

Hybrid simulation-based training improves competence and confidence in medical students undertaking comprehensive consultation assessment of cardiac patients. In addition, weighted scoring checklists improve grading consistency, learning through peer assessment, and feedback.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05895799
Psychometric characteristics of the Spanish version of the HIV Symptom Index
Authors: Ibarra-Barrueta Olatz , Mora-Atorrasagasti Oihana , Palacios-Zabalza Itziar , Aguirre-Larracoechea Urko , Legarreta Maria Jose , González-Hernández Nerea
Published: October 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Spanish-language version of the HIV-Symptom Index (HIV-SI) questionnaire in Spanish patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy.

Methods

Between 2014 and 2016, an observational, multicenter, prospective cohort study was conducted in seventeen Spanish hospitals to validate HIV-SI questionnaire in terms of: construct validity (confirmatory factor analysis), internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha), convergent validity (Pearson’s correlation coefficient) and Known-group validity. In addition, a sensitivity to change analysis was also performed.

Results

A total of 232 patients were included in the study. They had a mean age of 46.17 (SD9.82) and were 75% male. The median overall score for the HIV-SI was 10 (IQR 4– 19.5) and the most common symptoms reported were feelings of nervousness or anxiety, fatigue or energy loss, feeling sad or depressed, stomach pain or bloating, and difficulty sleeping. In the current study, the Spanish HIV-SI questionnaire showed a high internal consistency (α = 0.89) and adequate construct validity (CFI and TLI > 0.90). When contrasted with the MOS-HIV questionnaire, an inverse correlation was found. It showed a good association with the mental (r=-0.61; P < 0.0001) and physical score (r=-0.60; P < 0.0001). In a multivariate analysis, the age of the patient, female condition, hepatitis C coinfection, concomitant treatment and non-adherence resulted in a higher HIV-SI score.

Conclusions

Our study has shown that the Spanish HIV-SI is a valid and reliable self-administered PROM for routine measurement of patient- reported symptoms among Spanish patients on antiretroviral treatment.
Improving the crosslinking of collagen casing and glutaraldehyde by facilitating the formation of conjugate structure via pH
Authors: Yu Zhe , Wu Jingmin , Zhang Ting , Chen Chi , Ma Yun , Liu Hongxiang , Chiou Bor-Sen , Liu Fei , Li Jian
Published: October 2024

Glutaraldehyde (GTA) crosslinking is commonly used to improve the thermal stability and mechanical strength of collagen casings. The aim of this research was to determine the optimal pH of the crosslinking between GTA and collagen as well as the crosslinking mechanisms. The weakly alkaline environment could facilitate the generation of GTA polymerization through the rapid generation of -C = C-C = O and -N = C-C = C- conjugated structures, and enhance the crosslinking reaction of GTA polymers with collagen amino groups. In the pH range of 8–10, the fibril diameter and d-space value declined significantly in the self-assembled collagen fibril-GTA system. Meanwhile, collagen casing films crosslinked with GTA in weakly alkaline conditions exhibited higher mechanical strength and thermal stability. These results suggest that the crosslinking of collagen casings and GTA can be improved by adjusting the pH. Possible crosslinking mechanisms related to the formation of conjugated long chains have also been proposed. This study could provide guidance on the appropriate use of GTA in the production process of collagen casings.

Graphical Abstract
Network pharmacology combined with molecular docking and molecular dynamics to verify the therapeutic potential of mung beans (Vigna radiata) against prostate cancer
Authors: Syahputra Dio , Ysrafil Ysrafil , Alexandra Francisca Diana , Praja Rian Ka , Fatmaria Fatmaria , Pratika Remi Ayu
Published: October 2024

Background

Prostate cancer is the most common oncological disease in men and one of leading causes of death worldwide. Growing evidence has demonstrated the effectiveness of mung bean bioactive compounds in suppressing various cancer cells. However, their effects and underlying mechanisms on prostate cancer have not been verified. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutical effects and underlying mechanisms of mung bean compounds against prostate cancer.

Results

The results revealed that 56 proteins related to prostate cancer could be modulated by mung bean, including several vital proteins of SRC (Sarcoma), Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 8 (MAPK8), Heat shock protein 90 kDa alpha member A1 (HSP90AA1), and Harvey Rat sarcoma virus (HRAS). It was also found that the potential pathways associated with prostate cancer pathogenesis comprising pyrimidine metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and prolactin signaling pathways. Of 19 mung bean compounds docked to four key proteins reveal three promising compound (dulcinoside, peonidin-3-glucoside, and chlorogenic acid) with lower binding affinity score of − 7.7, − 12.2, − 9.0, and − 6.5 kcal/mol against SRC, MAPK8, HSP90AA1, and HRAS, respectively in their site of action. Dynamic simulation results also showed values of − 36.52 ± 2.93, − 35.93 ± 1.67, and − 35.77 ± 1.17 kJ/mol for Dulcinoside-SRC, Dulcinoside-MAPK8, and P3G-HSP90AA1 complexes, respectively. The binding of the compound occur in stable and flexible with the proteins. Moreover, all mung bean compounds predicted to have good ADMET properties.

Conclusions

The study concluded that dulcinoside, peonidin-3-glucoside, and chlorogenic acid potentially exhibited anticancer activity against prostate cancer in silico. Nevertheless, further studies such as in vitro and in vivo are needed to optimize and prove the efficacy of the mung brand and its compounds against prostate cancer.

Graphical abstract
Single-cell polymer coating improves the desiccation tolerance of Metarhizium brunneum blastospores
Authors: Dietsch Robin , Jakobs-Schönwandt Desiree , Blöbaum Luisa , Bondzio Laila , Grünberger Alexander , Patel Anant
Published: October 2024

Equipping cells with artificial shells or coats has been explored throughout the last decade, with goals such as immunomasking, in vivo tracing, and imparting tolerance to various biotic and abiotic stressors. One stressor, however, drying, has curiously been overlooked. In an industrial setting, the drying of cells is relevant when a satisfactory product shelf life must be achieved at a low cost. The drying of entomopathogenic organisms for biocontrol is a prime example of this. Here, the thin-walled blastospores of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum are a great model organism for testing whether thin-cell surface polyelectrolyte layers may increase desiccation tolerance. In this study, we coated single M. brunneum blastospores with alternating layers of chitosan and alginate and assessed their effects on blastospore viability after drying. The desiccation tolerance improved with increasing layer numbers from 6.9% to a maximum of 27.5%. In addition, as the polymer chain length decreased, the desiccation tolerance further increased to 33.1%. Furthermore, we provided visual proof of the coating surrounding the blastospores via the use of fluorescent polymers and scanning electron microscopy. Finally, an investigation of differences in water absorption into coated and uncoated cells revealed that water absorbed faster into coated cells when alginate was on the surface of the structure but slower when the outermost layer was composed of chitosan. We conclude that, via polyelectrolyte multilayering on thin-walled blastospores, desiccation tolerance can be significantly increased, but a deeper understanding is necessary to extract the full potential from this technique.

Graphical Abstract
Realizing multiorbital Hubbard model with commensurate fillings in the paramagnetic phase of triangular magnets
(X = Mn, Co, Ni)
Authors: Hu Cong , Zhang Xuefeng , Li Gang
Published: October 2024

The multiorbital Hubbard model is renowned for its rich phase diagram, characterized by various filling-dependent Mott transitions. However, controlling electron filling to explore the complete phase diagram within a single material remains challenging. In this study, we investigate three members of a correlated magnet family: Na2BaX(PO4)2 (where X = Mn, Co, Ni). Our focus is on revealing their unusual electronic structure related to the different electron fillings. Despite differences in their effective angular momentum, our first-principles calculations reveal a strikingly similar flat-band electronic structure across all three systems. Remarkably, we found that their distinct valence configurations lead to a similar response to electronic correlations in the high-temperature paramagnetic phases, which nicely realizes Mott states with different electron concentrations. Thus, these systems can be conceptualized as multiorbital Hubbard models with differing electron fillings. Our work unifies the understanding of these structurally similar systems and opens new avenues for exploring correlated electronic structures with distinct fillings.