bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting extremes of football players' performance in matches.
Authors: Nowak Michal , Bok Bartosz , Wilczek Artur , Kamola Mariusz , Oleksy Łukasz
Published: June 2024

Based on training history, accurate predictive modelling of an athlete's performance in competition can be a cornerstone for prior optimal planning of exercise mix and intensity. While universal in many sports, such a goal is challenging in football due to the complexity of factors leading to the final score and the complexity of the preceding training process. We developed and tested a range of models, the best of which were to forecast selected play performance indices with an accuracy of 10-20%. Such score applies to models run on raw player location data and aggregating performance indices developed with expert knowledge in the football training domain. Results show that individual player models perform better than collective ones and that more recent training data are better predictors. While we consider the accuracy of the models still of limited reliability, their transparency and present quality make them useful in the daily planning of training activities that impact player performance in the coming match. Additionally, observations of training parameters generated in short-term intervals are more effective and correlated with extreme match results than long-term dates. Specific training parameters may be key in predicting exceptional football player performance, but they may also vary from person to person.
Impact of digital self-scheduling on operations management and patient experience in hospital outpatient settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Miao , Li Teng , Wang Hongqian , Zhong Hongling , Zhou Haizhou , Fan Yaojun , Peng Jing , Wang Fang , Lin Li , Wang Lihua
Published: June 2024

Digital self-scheduling (DSS) adopted for outpatient appointment system improves efficiency and quality of services, but how it contributes to improving outpatient care delivery in hospital settings remains unverified. To evaluate the impact of DSS on operations management and patient experience in hospital outpatient services. Studies published in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCO, Science Direct, Scopus, and IEEE Xplore were searched up to June 2022. Studies describe DSS intervention for accessing outpatient services in hospital settings, analysing its effectiveness on operations management or patient experience compared with traditional scheduling methods/or not intervention, were included. PRISMA and SWiM guidelines were used to report the study. The ROBINS-I and GRADE criteria were used for rating risk of bias and quality of evidence. Meta-analysis was conducted for combinable results from at least two studies, performed by RevMan 5.4. A total of 18 observational studies were included. Compared with conventional methods, DSS resulted in lower no-show rates (OR = 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.57–0.85, p < 0.001), increased scheduling efficiency (OR = 4.94, 95% CI: 4.54–5.38, p < 0.001), and improved patient satisfaction (OR = 2.83, 95% CI: 2.20–3.64, p < 0.001). Younger age (MD -9.07, 95%CI: -14.75 to -3.38, p = 0.002) and higher education (OR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.80–0.91, p < 0.001) were observed in DSS population. Patient acceptance of DSS increased alongside the advancement of digital technologies and dominated by the ease of use. This study suggested the use of DSS for improving hospital outpatient services, but there is insufficient evidence for waiting time and other outcomes of outpatient operations, so future research is warranted.
Arctic and Antarctic Sea Ice Extent Forecasting using hybrid LSTM Techniques
Authors: Sureja Spandan
Published: June 2024

Recent changes in global climate patterns have triggered the melting of polar sea ice, especially in Arctic regions. A decrease in the extent of sea ice is observed at a much faster rate than previously expected. The Antarctic region, on the other hand, has shown a stable sea ice pattern throughout the last few decades. However, the southern polar region is not completely unaffected. Recent studies of the Bellingshausen and Amundsen Seas have shown a downward trend in sea ice. The extent of sea ice is crucial for regulating global climate patterns, ocean circulation and human activities, including shipping and fishing. Hence, forecasting sea ice extent is vital for global economy planning and climatology studies. In this paper, time-series forecasting of 5 Antarctic and Arctic regions is evaluated using a hybrid convolutional long short-term memory (ConvLSTM) and a bidirectional long short-term memory (LSTM) and compared with a standalone long short-term memory (LSTM). This study uses regional sea ice extent data rather than considering the extent across entire hemispheres. Evaluation metrics such as the root mean squared error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) are used to compare the performances of the models. With lower RMSE scores across all lead times, the proposed hybrid models show better performance in regional sea ice forecasting than does the standalone LSTM. The study also indicated that the climatic conditions of a particular region play a crucial role in forecasting efficiency, especially at longer lead times.
Development and Application of Concrete-Filled Steel Tubular (CFST) Column Supporting High-stress Roof Strata in Large-span Mine Roadway
Authors: Song Wei , WANG Han-Qiu , Liu Xue-Feng , QIU Heng-Jian , QIU Feng-Qi , SHENG Feng-Tian
Published: June 2024

The stability of large-span roadway junctions is challenging to control solely through simple passive support and conventional combined support. Therefore, this paper incorporates a novel high strength concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) column considering the steel tube structure and concrete materials designed to offer adequate support for controlling the rock strata in large-span mining roadway. Subsequently, the CFST column model was designed based on a large-span roadway in a certain mine. The results show that circular-section CFST columns are significantly superior to square-section CFST columns. As the steel tube's wall thickness increases, the structure's bearing capacity significantly increases. Considering both performance and cost, a new concrete material was studied that enhances bearing capacity by increasing its strength and the tightness of contact with steel tubes. Circular steel tubes with an outer diameter of 800 mm and a wall thickness of 24 mm were used as columns, filled with a new type of concrete material, for supporting the roof strata of the large-span mining roadway. After calculating the support forces, it was concluded that CFST columns could effectively bear the stress released by the strata, thereby reducing the displacement of the top rocks, with a notable support effect.
Gender affects spine-pelvic-lower limb force line:A cross-sectional imaging study of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Yin Shilin , Du peiyu , Du Shuangqing , Zhang Yongwang , Liu Lu , Sun Zhipeng , Bai Yicong , Tian Xinyu , Li Xi , Yan Yun tao
Published: June 2024

Objective:The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between imaging indicators of knee osteoarthritis and the presence of gender orientation and risk factors.
Methods:This study retrospectively included 318 patients with knee osteoarthritis.Based on Kellgren-Lawrence(KL)scoring system,These patients were classified as having limited knee osteoarthritis(LKOA) and severe knee osteoarthritis(SLOA).We measured the lumbar lordosis angle(LL),sacral slope angle(SS),pelvic incidence angle(PI),the mechanical axis deviation(MAD),Joint line convergence angle(JLCA) and lateral proximal femur angle(LPFA) in each patient to explore whether the correlation between these parameters is correlation under different gender conditions.
Results:The study showed that in LKOA group,JLCA in female patients showed significant negative correlation with PI and LL(P<0.01),while SS in male patients showed significant positive correlation with MAD and LPFA(P<0.01).Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that PI was an independent risk factor for JLCA in female patients.In male patients,SS is an independent risk factor for MAD.However, in the SKOA group, there was no significant correlation between JLCA,MAD and LL,SS and PI in either male or female (P>0.05),suggesting that gender had less influence on the relationship between these parameters in the more severe stage of the disease.
Conclusion:There were differences between lumbar vertebrae-pelvic parameters and knee line of force in patients with limited knee osteoarthritis of different genders.The JLCA was associated with Pelvic retroversion and straightening of lumbar curvature in women,while the shift of mechanical axis deviation was associated with Pelvis forward in men.In patients with severe knee osteoarthritis,lumbar-pelvic parameters were not associated with knee line of force,and gender differences disappeared.
Midkine Attenuates Aβ Fibril Assembly and Amyloid Plaque Formation
Authors: Peng Junmin , Zaman Masihuz , Yang Shu , Huang Ya , Yarbro Jay , Wang Zhen , Liu Danting , Soliman Hadeer , Hemphill Alex , Harvey Sarah , Pruett-Miller Shondra , Stewart Valerie , Tanwar Ajay , Kalathur Ravi , Grace Christy , Turk Martin , Chittori Sagar , Jiao Yun , Wu Zhiping , High Anthony , Wang Xusheng , Serrano Geidy , Beach Thomas , Yu Gang , Yang Yang , Chen Ping-Chung
Published: June 2024

Proteomic profiling of Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains has identified numerous understudied proteins, including midkine (MDK), that are highly upregulated and correlated with Aβ since the early disease stage, but their roles in disease progression are not fully understood. Here we present that MDK attenuates Aβ assembly and influences amyloid formation in the 5xFAD amyloidosis mouse model. MDK protein mitigates fibril formation of both Aβ40 and Aβ42 peptides in Thioflavin T fluorescence assay, circular dichroism, negative stain electron microscopy, and NMR analysis. Knockout of Mdkgene in 5xFAD increases amyloid formation and microglial activation. Further comprehensive mass spectrometry-based profiling of whole proteome and aggregated proteome in these mouse models indicates significant accumulation of Aβ and Aβ-correlated proteins, along with microglial components. Thus, our structural and mouse model studies reveal a protective role of MDK in counteracting amyloid pathology in Alzheimer's disease.
A new kind of colleague for the future? Nurses’ evaluation of a service robot for inpatient care – A technology acceptance study
Authors: Friese Christopher , Klebbe Robert , Heimann-Steinert Anika
Published: June 2024

Background: Nursing is increasingly being enhanced by the use of assistive technologies. These technological advances include assistive robots, which have already shown positive impacts on older adults as well as formal and informal caregivers. However, a lack of end-user acceptance is considered one of the most significant barriers to the implementation and successful long-term use of robots in nursing. Therefore, a user-centered research and development approach is particularly important to ensure the use of robotics is not technology-driven, but oriented towards nursing goals and processes.
Methods: Our study presents the results of the evaluation of a service robot developed for routine tasks in inpatient care in a user-centered design. In three scenarios (information service, delivery of items, and delivery of beverages), 30 nurses tested the robot in a simulated care setting with regard to acceptance-related dimensions and the intention to use the system. In addition, the participants’ general attitudes towards robots and robotics experiences were surveyed.
Results: Generally, the robot was seen as user-friendly and useful. Skepticism towards the system was low and the accessibility was rated as moderate. Overall, a high intention to use was reported. No significant differences were identified in the assessment of the robot between participants with and without robotics experience. However, dependency analyses showed various strongly significant correlations. Usability, perceived usefulness, and accessibility as well as a personal positive attitude towards robots all correlated positively with the intention to use. Skepticism towards the system correlated negatively.
Conclusion: In our study, a high level of acceptance was measured for the developed service robot within the selected application scenarios. In line with the current state of research, our results suggest that the target group-specific communication of robot capabilities and limitations as well as opportunities for personal experience are particularly important aspects for promoting the intention to use and acceptance of robotic systems. Strategies for the transfer of knowledge and skills as well as financing concepts are urgently needed so that the nursing sector can become more widely aware of and benefit from the potential of robotics.
Insights into long-term glass corrosion mechanisms from the Ballidon project: a 50-year-old glass burial experiment in an alkaline near surface environment.
Authors: Thorpe Clare , Fisher Adam , Manifold Garry , Creasey-Gray Stuart , Jackson Caroline , Stone J , Corkhill Claire , Boothman Christopher , Lloyd Jonathan , Hand Russell
Published: June 2024

Results are presented from the Ballidon experiment, one of the longest running glass durability experiments. Nine glasses of varying composition including simulant Roman and medieval glasses, as well as borosilicate, plate glass, soda-lime-silica, E-glass and a lead optical glass were buried in mildly alkaline and under-saturated conditions for 50 years. The relative durability of the nine glasses compared well with that predicted by the stirred reactor coupon analysis (SRCA) short-term durability test with alteration layers present on the least durable glasses and only localised (vermiform) attack observable on the most durable glasses. Alteration layers on the naturally altered Ballidon samples were analysed with particular attention to the influence of elements from the environment on their chemical composition and to evidence of post-formation evolution of the layers. It was evident that Ca (from the limestone sediment) and P (from the local groundwater) were sequestered in alteration layers and contributed to the formation of Ca, Pb and Fe-phosphate rich phases. Separation of the alteration layers into ‘bands’ or lamellae with different chemical environments occurred in poorly durable glasses, with Si and Al rich bands alternating with Ca, Fe and P rich bands. There was evidence that banding in alteration layers moved and evolved over time in response to water ingress, for example from cracks and fissures.
Research on Time-Varying Path Optimization for Multi-Vehicle Type Fresh Food Logistics Distribution Considering Energy Consumption
Authors: Chen Hao , Wang Wenxian , Jia Li , Wang Haiming
Published: June 2024

With the increasing demand for fresh food markets, refrigerated transportation has become an essential component of logistics operations. Currently, fresh food transportation frequently faces issues of high energy consumption and high costs, which are inconsistent with the development needs of the modern logistics industry. This paper addresses the optimization problem of multi-vehicle type fresh food distribution under time-varying conditions. It comprehensively considers the changes in road congestion at different times and the quality degradation characteristics of fresh goods during distribution. The objectives include transportation cost, dual carbon cost, and damage cost, subject to constraints such as delivery time windows and vehicle capacity. A piecewise function is used to depict vehicle speeds, proposing a dynamic urban fresh food logistics vehicle routing optimization method. Given the NP-hard nature of the problem, a hybrid Tabu Search (TS) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) approach is designed to compute a Pareto optimal solution. Comparison with TS and GA algorithm results shows that the TS-GA algorithm provides the best optimization efficiency and effectiveness for solving large-scale distribution problems. The results indicate that using the TS-GA algorithm to optimize a distribution network with one distribution center and 30 delivery points resulted in a total cost of CNY 12,934.02 and a convergence time of 16.3 seconds. For problems involving multiple vehicle types and multiple delivery points, the TS-GA algorithm reduces the overall cost by 2.94–7.68% compared to traditional genetic algorithms, demonstrating superior performance in addressing multi-vehicle, multi-point delivery challenges.
Impacts of aerosol concentration on precipitation pattern of tropical cyclones in South China area
Authors: Shi Xiaoming , Mak Ho Yi Lydia , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have discovered that an increase in aerosol concentration could affect the development of precipitation and tropical cyclones. However, with increasing efforts to mitigate climate change, the amount of aerosols in the atmosphere is expected to decrease in the future. This study aims at understanding how such a reduction in aerosol number concentration could affect the precipitation pattern of tropical cyclones through case studies of Typhoon Haikui and Koinu. The Thompson aerosol-aware microphysics scheme in the Weather Research and Forecst(WRF) model is used, and the water-friendly aerosol number concentration is reduced by a factor of 100. For both tropical cyclones, a reduction in aerosol results in consistent expansion of precipitation area due to the enhanced warm rain process. However, the mean precipitation intensity of Koinu decreases while that of Haikui increases, depending on whether warm-rain or ice-phase dominates and whether upper-level convection is altered.
Inhibition of capD gene confers disrupted capsule development and decreased pathogenicity in Elizabethkingia miricola
Authors: Hu Ruixue , Liu Fangyuan , Yu Fang , Hou Jiahao , Chen Dan , Gu Zemao
Published: June 2024

Elizabethkingia miricola is a multidrug-resistant pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients and outbreaks in amphibians. However, the specific virulence factors of this microorganism have not been previously determined. In this study, we identified the polysaccharide biosynthesis protein gene capD, located in the conserved region of the Wzy-dependent capsule synthesis gene cluster in E. miricola strain FL160902, and investigated its role in the pathogenesis of E. miricola. Our results showed that the capD deletion strain (ΔcapD) lost its typical encapsulated structure with a 45% reduction in cell wall thickness. CapD affects Wza expression in the capsule polysaccharide synthesis pathway. Furthermore, the survival rates were significantly reduced in ΔcapD in response to complement-mediated killing, desiccation stress, oxidative stress, and macrophage phagocytosis, while biofilm formation, self-aggregation ability, and adherence to both endothelial and epithelial cells were enhanced. Additionally, the deletion of ΔcapD sharply attenuated the virulence of E. miricola in a frog infection model. Overall, these findings suggest that CapD contributes to polysaccharide synthesis and plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of E. miricola.
Assessing Artificial Intelligence-Generated Patient Discharge Information for the Emergency Department: A Pilot Study
Authors: De Rouck Ruben , Wille Evy , Gilbert Allison , Vermeersch Nick
Published: June 2024

Background: Effective patient discharge information (PDI) in emergency departments (EDs) is vital and often more crucial than the diagnosis itself. Patients who are well informed at discharge tend to be more satisfied and experience better health outcomes. The combination of written and verbal instructions tends to improve patient recall. However, creating written discharge materials is both time-consuming and costly. With the emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LMMs), there is potential for the efficient production of patient discharge documents. This study aimed to investigate several predefined key performance indicators (KPIs) of AI-generated patient discharge information.
Methods: This study focused on three significant patients’ complaints in the ED: nonspecific abdominal pain, nonspecific low back pain, and fever in children. To generate the brochures, we used an English query for ChatGPT-4 (an LLM) and DeepL software to translate the brochures to Dutch. Five KPIs were defined to assess these PDI brochures: quality, accessibility, clarity, correctness and usability. The brochures were evaluated for each KPI by 8 experienced emergency physicians using a rating scale from 1 (very poor) to 10 (excellent). To quantify the readability of the brochures, frequently used indices were employed: the Flesch Reading Ease, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook, and Coleman-Liau Index on the translated text.
Results: The brochures generated by ChatGPT-4 were well received, scoring an average of 7 to 8 out of 10 across all evaluated aspects. However, the results also indicated a need for some revisions to perfect these documents. Readability analysis indicated that brochures require high school- to college-level comprehension, but this is likely an overestimation due to context-specific reasons as well as features inherent to the Dutch language.
Conclusion: Our findings indicate that AI tools such as LLM could represent a new opportunity to quickly produce patient discharge information brochures. However, human review and editing are essential to ensure accurate and reliable information. A follow-up study with more topics and validation in the intended population is necessary to assess their performance.
Genome-wide association study of glucocerebrosidase activity modifiers.
Authors: Somerville Emma N. , Krohn Lynne , Senkevich Konstanin , Yu Eric , Ahmad Jamil , Asayesh Farnaz , Ruskey Jennifer A. , Speigelman Dan , Fahn Stanley , Waters Cheryl , Sardi S. Pablo , Alcalay Roy N. , Gan-Or Ziv
Published: June 2024

One of the most common genetic risk factors for Parkinson’s disease (PD) are variants in GBA1, which encodes the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase). GCase deficiency has been associated with an increased PD risk, but not all individuals with low GCase activity are carriers of GBA1 mutations, suggesting other factors may be acting as modifiers. We aimed to discover common variants associated with GCase activity, as well as replicate previously reported associations, by performing a genome-wide association study using two independent cohorts: a Columbia University cohort consisting of 697 PD cases and 347 controls and the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) cohort consisting of 357 PD cases and 163 controls. As expected, GBA1 variants have the strongest association with decreased activity, led by p.N370S (beta = -4.36, se = 0.32, p = 5.05e-43). We also identify a novel association in the GAA locus (encoding for acid alpha-glucosidase, beta = -0.96, se = 0.17, p = 5.23e-09) that may be the result of an interaction between GCase and acid alpha-glucosidase based on various interaction analyses. Lastly, we show that several PD-risk loci are potentially associated with GCase activity. Further research will be needed to replicate and validate our findings and to uncover the functional connection between acid alpha-glucosidase and GCase.
Evaluating the multifarious anti-cancer activity of Laos Kaempferia parviflora (black ginger) on human melanoma cell lines
Authors: Park Gyun Seok , Shin Juhyun , Hong Seongwoo , Saini Ramesh Kumar , Gopal Judy , Oh Jae-Wook
Published: June 2024

Cancer has become a consistent concern globally and has become increasingly fatal. Malignant melanoma is a rising concern, with its increased mortality. Kaempferia parviflora (KP) commonly known as black ginger is well known for its medicinal contributions.
Methods: For the first time, in the following study we have investigated the anti-melanoma potential of Laos KP extracts in human cell lines. KP extracts in methanol, DCM, ethyl acetate and hexane were tested against two melanoma cell lines. The Mu-2-related death-inducing gene (MUDENG, MuD) protein association with the KPE extracts were also investigated. The results showed that KPE enhanced apoptotic cells in the absence and presence of pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK. Interestingly, these apoptotic cells were significantly suppressed by the caspase inhibitor. Moreover, elevated Mitochondrial Membrane Potential (MMP) and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, suggestive of KPEs mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in melanoma cells, were also confirmed. KPE treatment increased MMP levels, upregulated the generation of ROS in A375 cells but not in A2058 cells. However, pretreatment with an ROS scavenger (NAC) suppressed KPE-induced cell death and ROS generation. These results clearly pointed out to KPE-induced mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic cell death as the mechanism behind the inhibition of the human melanoma cells.
Balancing environmental sustainability with the social goals of scientific organisations: a ‘COM-B’ behaviour change strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international scientific conferences, meetings and educational events
Authors: Richards David , Bellon Filip , Goñi-Fuste Blanca , Grech Joseph , Hollowood Lorna , Mezzalira Elisabetta , Möhler Ralph , Perez-de-Gracia David , Seckin Muzeyyen , Velonaki Venetia , Teixeira-Santos Luísa , Deschodt Mieke
Published: June 2024

Objective
To estimate the environmental impact of two exemplar in-person academic events and, using the COM-B behaviour change framework of capability, opportunity, motivation, identify strategies that could be applied by organisers and participants to reduce this impact.
Methods
We calculated the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from two European PhD summer schools, one geographically peripheral and one central, organised by a European academic society, the European Academy of Nursing Science. We used participant distances from home university cities to the event sites to calculate individual GHG travel emissions. We incorporated on-site emissions into per-participant totals, and examined the relative contributions of travel and on-site factors to individual and total event emissions. We calculated the financial costs of individual participant attendance.
Results
Our exemplar events contributed between 41 tonnes and 99 tonnes CO2e emissions per event, a per-participant mean between 0.324, (SD 0.173) and 0.724, (SD 0.263) tonnes, representing 2 to 5.5 times the daily per-person European average. Distance from home was the largest contributor to emissions, with the peripheral event associated with 2.5 times the emissions of the central event, driven by aviation as flying was the only viable means to travel long distances. On-site emissions were no more than 26% of the total event emissions profiles. Costs were similar for both events.
Implications
Whilst organisers can provide participants with the opportunity to travel shorter distances and to sites where ground-based travel options are available, participants may not act on opportunities unless their capabilities and motivation are enhanced. We describe a behaviour change programme, structured using the COM-B model, that identifies strategies for organisers and participants to use to reduce the GHG emissions of academic events. A multi-component behavioural change programme including environmental change, enablement, education, incentivisation and persuasion is likely to be more successful than single strand approaches.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations Study: The Master Role of Solvation Free Energy for Topoisomerase Activity
Authors: dhar Murali , Vandana Km , pandey Vinayak , Tiwari Rakesh Kumar
Published: June 2024

Topoisomerase enzymes are vital players in DNA manipulation, crucial for maintaining its topological structure, and a cornerstone of molecular biology. Among these enzymes, Topoisomerase-IB (Topo-IB) has a unique role in relieving DNA torsional stress using phosphorylated tyrosine bonds (PTR), which are crucial for changing DNA topology. Our study, employing molecular dynamics simulations and diverse analytical tools, delves into the structural intricacies governing Topo-IB activity. Key to our findings is the discovery of Lysine 318 (Lys 318) within the core domain as a major contributor to Topo-IB's function. Lys 318's role in generating polar solvation energy crucially stabilizes enzymatic activity. Furthermore, we highlight the pivotal role of hydrogen bond dynamics in orchestrating Topo-IB's activity, showcasing the intricate interplay of molecular interactions during DNA manipulation. Overall, our study unveils the molecular mechanisms driving Topo-IB's function, spotlighting Lys 318 and hydrogen bond dynamics as central elements. These insights deepen our grasp of DNA topology modulation and offer promising avenues for developing pharmacological interventions targeting Topo-IB, with implications across various pathophysiological contexts.
A qualitative evaluation of the effectiveness of behaviour change techniques used in the Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyles for Diabetes (HEAL-D) intervention
Authors: Moore Amanda P , Rivas Carol , Harding Seeromanie , Goff Louise M
Published: June 2024

Background
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is up to three times more common in people of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage living in the UK, compared to their White British counterparts. Structured education is the cornerstone of care but is less successful for people from minority ethnic groups. Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyles for Diabetes (HEAL-D) was developed to support diabetes self-management in people of Black African and Caribbean heritage living with T2D in the UK. The intervention was designed using COM-B/behaviour change wheel methodology to specify the theory of change. In a process evaluation study, we explored how the selected behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and components supported behaviour change in the intervention.
Methods
Focus groups and interviews were conducted with participants who were randomised to receive the HEAL-D intervention in a feasibility trial. A topic guide directed discussions to explore experiences of HEAL-D, key learnings and impact, and behaviour change; the interviews gave the opportunity to probe further the focus group themes and areas requiring clarification. Sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed. Framework analysis was used to explore how the selected BCTs supported behaviour change in those attending HEAL-D.
Results
Thirty-six participants took part in one or both activities (44% Black African, 50% Black Caribbean, 6% Mixed race; 61% female, 83% first-generation; mean age 59.5, SD 10.02). Participants reported increased physical activity, reduced carbohydrate portion size and engagement in weight monitoring behaviour. BCTs to increase social opportunity (social comparison, social support) and shift motivational barriers (credible sources and modelling) were effective in addressing cultural barriers around diet, stigma and health beliefs. BCTs to develop capability (demonstration, instruction, information on health consequences) were effective because of the cultural salience of the developed components. Less impactful BCTs were problem solving, graded tasks, goal setting, and feedback on outcomes.
Conclusions
BCTs identified in the development of the HEAL-D intervention were acceptable and effective, particularly useful were those promoting social opportunity as normative cultural habits and beliefs can conflict with diabetes self-management guidance. In addition, lifestyle interventions should include opportunity for experiential learning alongside culturally salient information provision.
Trial registration
number: NCT03531177; May 18th 2018
Risk factors for systemic inflammatory response syndrome after radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer: A prospective study
Authors: Chen Yu , Liao Chaoyu , Li Siyue , Zhou Luqiang , Zhu Jingzhen , Fu Weihua , Zheng Ji , Song Caiping
Published: June 2024

Aim
Exploring the risk factors for systemic inflammatory response syndrome in prostate cancer patients after radical surgery, establishing a risk warning model, and validating it.
Methods
A prospective selection was conducted on 309 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy in our hospital from March 2022 to March 2024. They were divided into two groups based on whether SIRS occurred after surgery: the SIRS group (n =46) and the non-SIRS group (n =263). Logistic regression analysis was performed on possible related factors to construct a column chart risk model. Internal validation of the column chart model for predicting postoperative SIRS was performed using the Bootstrap method with 1000 repeated samples.
Results
The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that operative time, diabetes mellitusm, preoperative indwelling catheterization, urinary catheter retention time, pathologic diagnosis (OR ＞ 1, P ＜0.05). A column chart prediction model was established based on the risk factors affecting postoperative SIRS, and internal validation was performed using bootstrap method with 1000 repeated samples. The predicted values of the calibration curve were basically consistent with the actual values, and the Hosmer Lemeshow goodness of fit test was performed χ2 = 11.851, P = 0.158, the area under the ROC curve is 0.844 (95%CI: 0.792-0.897).
Conclusions
The occurrence of SIRS in prostate cancer patients after radical surgery is influenced by multiple factors, and the risk warning model established based on these factors has good predictive performance.
Pretransplantation risk factors for MRD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation in AML patients: A prospective study
Authors: Chang Ying-Jun , Li Si-Qi , Yu Chunzi , Xu Lan-Ping , Wang Yu , Zhang Xiao-hui , Chen Huan , Chen Yuhong , Wang Fengr-Rong , Sun Yuqian , Yan Chen-Hua , Lv Meng , Mo Xiao-Dong , Liu Yanrong , Liu Kaiyan , Zhao Xiaosu , Zhao Xiang-Yu , Huang Xiaojun
Published: June 2024

We aimed to explore the risk factors for measurable residual disease (MRD) positivity after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) in AML patients. A total of 478 AML patients receiving allo-SCT were prospectively enrolled. The cumulative incidences of post-SCT MRD positivity at 100 days, 360 days and 3 years were 4.6%, 12.1% and 18.3%, respectively. Positive pre-SCT MRD was a risk factor for post-SCT MRD positivity at both 360 days and 3 years (P < 0.001). European LeukemiaNet (ELN) 2022 and 2017 risk stratification was a risk factor for positive post-SCT MRD at 100 days and 360 days (P = 0.020 and 0.047, respectively). A scoring system for predicting post-SCT MRD positivity at 360 days was established by using pre-SCT MRD and ELN 2017 risk stratification. The cumulative incidence of positive post-SCT MRD at 3 years was 13.2%, 23.6%, and 43.9% for patients with scores of 0, 1, and 2, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the scoring system was associated with a higher cumulative incidence of post-SCT MRD positivity, leukemia relapse and inferior survival. Our data indicate that positive pre-SCT MRD status, ELN 2022 risk stratification and 2017 risk stratification are independent risk factors for positive post-SCT MRD status in AML patients.
Pan-cancer analysis of Ischemic stroke-related innate immune genes screened by machine learning
Authors: Li Liang , Zhan Zhenrun , He Xiaoyuan , Zhao Tingting
Published: June 2024

Background
Ischemic stroke (IS), also known as acute cerebral infarction (ACI), is the most common clinical cerebrovascular disease. It is currently believed that the occurrence of IS has some genetic background factors, and the differential expression of several genes may affect the occurrence and prognosis of IS. In this study, we used bioinformatic big data analysis to screen IS-related differential genes and perform pathway and functional analysis. Pan-cancer analysis of hub genes was also performed.
Methods
The data of differentially expressed gene profiles in peripheral blood of IS patients and normal subjects were selected from GEO database, and the DEGs were screened. The screened differential genes were subjected to weighted gene co-expression analysis and machine learning calculations, and the obtained core genes were subjected to functional analysis. Finally, immune-related hub genes were analyzed for pan-cancer analysis.
Results
The GSE16561 dataset of 501 differentially expressed genes in IS patients and normal control population was then continued with WGCNA analysis to screen the core set of genes. They were analyzed for GO, KEGG, DO, and GSEA enrichment and were mainly enriched for bacterial infectious diseases, primary immunodeficiency diseases, lymphocyte differentiation and proliferation, monocyte differentiation, positive regulation of cell adhesion, T cell receptor signaling pathway, and hematopoietic cell lines. Next, SVM, LASSO and RF operations were performed to screen out hub genes and to analyze them for immune infiltration. Finally, pan-cancer analysis revealed that ID3 was associated with multiple cancer d prognosis and immune infiltration.
Conclusion
ID3 may be associated with IS occurrence and is expected to be a new target for IS prevention and treatment. Meanwhile, ID3 has also been found to be associated with the prognosis of various cancers, which may provide new ideas for future intervention and prognosis improvement of cancer progression.
Machine learning prediction of pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy with peritumoral breast tumor ultrasound radiomics: compare with intratumoral radiomics and clinicopathologic predictors
Authors: Yao Jiejie , Zhou Wei , Jia Xiaohong , Zhu Ying , Chen Xiaosong , Zhan Weiwei , Zhou Jianqiao
Published: June 2024

Purpose
Noninvasive, accurate and novel approaches to predict patients who will achieve pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) could assist precise treatment strategies. The aim of this study was to explore machine learning (ML)-based peritumoral ultrasound radiomics signature (PURS), compared with intratumoral radiomics (IURS) and clinicopathologic factors, for early prediction of pCR.
Methods
We analyzed 358 locally advanced breast cancer patients (250 in the training set and 108 in the test set), who accepted NAC and post NAC surgery at our institution. The PURS and IURS of baseline breast tumors were extracted by using 3D-slicer and PyRadiomics software. Five ML classifiers including linear discriminant analysis (LDA), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), logistic regression (LR), and adaptive boosting (AdaBoost) were applied to construct radiomics models for the prediction of pCR. The performance of PURS, IURS models and clinicopathologic predictors were assessed with respect to sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and the areas under the curve (AUCs).
Results
For the PURS models, the RF classifier achieved better efficacy (AUC of 0.889) than LR (0.849), AdaBoost (0.823), SVM (0.746) and LDA (0.732) in the test set. For the IURS models, the RF classifier also obtained a maximum AUC of 0.931 than 0.920 (AdaBoost), 0.875 (LR), 0.825 (SVM), and 0.798 (LDA) in the test set. The RF-based PURS yielded higher predictive ability (AUC, 0.889; 95% CI: 0.814, 0.947) than clinicopathologic factors (AUC, 0.759; 95% CI: 0.657, 0.861; p < 0.05), but lower efficacy compared with IURS (AUC, 0.931; 95%CI: 0.865, 0.980; p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The peritumoral US radiomics, as a novel potential biomarker, may be a promising clinical approach to guide precise therapy decisions.
Diagnostic predictive model for distinguishing intravascular large B-cell lymphoma among patients with fever of unknown origin
Authors: Chen Chao , Di Yiao , Zhuang Zhe , Li Zepeng , Jia Congwei , Shi Ximin , Zhao Danqing , Wang Wei , Zhang Wei , Zhou Daobin , Zhang Yan
Published: June 2024

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is relatively rare. Due to the lack of distinctive symptoms, the diagnosis is difficult. Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is the most common symptom. This study retrospectively analyzed IVLBCL patients and FUO patients between February 2015 and October 2023. Diagnostic predictive models were constructed using multivariable logistic regression in the training cohort including 42 IVLBCL patients and 45 FUO patients. Model 1 consisted of peripheral edema, hypoxemia, neurological symptoms, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and interstitial lung abnormalities on CT, exhibited good diagnostic efficiency (AUC = 0.928). Model 2 consisted of peripheral edema, hypoxemia, neurological symptoms and Interleukin-10/Interleukin-6 concentration ratio, showed a higher diagnostic ability than Model 1 (AUC = 0.982, p = 0.023). The diagnostic abilities of models were validated internally in leave-one-out validation and externally in the validation cohort. As some medical institutions may lack the capability to test for interleukin concentration, Model 1 can be used to help the diagnosis of IVLBCL in these institutions. Based on Model 1 and Model 2, we established and validated two integer-based scoring systems for clinical practice. Most patients (58%) were histologically diagnosed by random skin biopsy, and the positive rate of random skin biopsy was 79.5%.
Evaluation of Shell Powders of Bush Mango and Hamburger Bean as Eco-friendly Fluid Loss Control Additives in Drilling Mud
Authors: Nwiyoronu Kayii Joe , Onuoha Oriji , Chukunedum Onojake Mudiagha , Obuzor Gloria
Published: June 2024

Fluid loss within a permeable formation is one of the expensive problems encounter during drilling of a wellbore. Commercially available materials such as Hydroxyl Ethyl Cellulose (HEC), Polyanionic Cellulose (PAC), and Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose (CMC) are employed to minimize fluid loss but they are costly and cause increased viscosity when faced with high salinity and hardness. This study evaluate the application of shell powders of hamburger bean and bush mango as eco-friendly and cheap filtration control additives in water-based mud. Sixteen samples were formulated with different concentrations (5g, 10g, 15g and 20g) of the shell powders. The effect of the additives on the rheological property was determined. Filtration test was determined using API 13B-I LPLP filter press. Results obtained showed that 15g and 20g of Bush mango reduced fluid loss, while the mud samples with hamburger beans exhibited a progressive decrease in filtration rate as the hamburger bean content increased. Both Bush Mango and Hamburger Bean-based mud produced cake thickness between 1.2-1.8 mm. The overall result indicates that Hamburger bean provide effective filtration control than Bush mango.
The prevalence and susceptibility patterns of Multi-Drug Resistant Organisms in neurosurgical Patients: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Al-Mufargi Younis , Busaidi Fatma Al , Balushi Yasmine Al , Malki Teeba Al , Hamdani Marwa Al , Al-Saadi Tariq , Alkhatri Rajwa , Yazidi Thuraya AL , Saidi Sultan AL
Published: June 2024

Background
This study investigates the prevalence and susceptibility patterns of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) causing post-neurosurgical meningitis in a region lacking prior data, emphasizing the importance of appropriate antimicrobial therapy in neurosurgical cases.
Methods and Study Design
: A retrospective study at Khoula Hospital (KH) in Oman analyzed medical records of 238 neurology and neurosurgery patients from January to December 2019. Data included patient demographics, diagnoses, antimicrobial resistance profiles, and hospital stay lengths, analyzed through statistical methods on SPSS software.
Results
The study found a MDRO prevalence rate of 26.1%, with the most common diagnosis being cerebrovascular diseases. High resistance rates were seen in various antibiotic classes. No significant associations were found between MDRO presence, hospital stay lengths, gender, or age. MDR alone was the most prevalent infection type.
Discussion
Antimicrobial resistance poses challenges in neurosurgical patients, highlighting the need for tailored treatment strategies. More research is needed to confirm these findings and guide clinical practices, but this study provides valuable insights into MDRO prevalence and resistance patterns in central nervous system conditions.
Impact of occupational heat exposure on blood lipids among petrochemical workers: An analysis of 9-year longitudinal data
Authors: Chen Yifeng , Li Xiaoyun , Li Qingyu , Yang Yan , Zhang Zitong , Zhang Yilin , Du Shanshan , He Fei , Lv Zihu , Ye Weimin , Zheng Wei , Xiang Jianjun
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study aims to assess the influence of occupational heat exposure on dyslipidemia among petrochemical workers and identify susceptible groups.
Methods: A total of 30,847 workers’ occupational health examination data were collected from two petrochemical plants in Fujian Province from 2013 to 2021. The dataset included occupational exposure information and blood lipid test results, encompassing total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglyceride (TG) levels. A Generalized Estimating Equations model was used to analyze the impact of heat exposure alone or coupled with other occupational hazards on workers' blood lipids.
Results: The one-factor exposure model shows that most of the individual occupational hazards were significantly negatively associated with dyslipidemia. In the two-factor exposure model, heat combined with gasoline exposure (Incidence Rate Ratio, IRR=1.267, 95% CI 1.117-1.437) and heat combined with hydrogen sulfide exposure (1.324, 1.166-1.505) significantly increased the risk of high TC. Stratified analysis showed that in the dual exposure model of high temperature combined with gasoline or hydrogen sulfide, women , individuals aged over 35, non-smoking , and non-alcohol drinking were more likely to have heat-related high TC.
Conclusion: The impact of heat and other petrochemical factors on blood lipids may be affected by healthy worker effect. Heat exposure combined with gasoline or hydrogen sulfide can significantly increase the risk of dyslipidemia. Occupational health interventions should pay more attention to female workers aged over 35 years who do not smoke or drink alcohol.
Positive Impact of AOX1 on RXR Signaling Leads to Inhibition of Osteogenesis in hPDLMSCs
Authors: Sun Shiwei , Iwata Takanori
Published: June 2024

Alveolar bone loss resulting from periodontal disease ultimately leads to tooth loss. Periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells (PDLMSCs) serve as the tissue-specific cells responsible for maintaining and repairing the periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. In this study, we explored the role of aldehyde oxidase 1 (AOX1) in regulating the osteoinduction of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLMSCs). hPDLMSCs were isolated from clinically healthy donors, and AOX1 expression was assessed by comparing inducted and non-inducted hPDLMSCs. Remarkably, we observed a significant upregulation of AOX1 expression during osteoinduction, while AOX1 silencing resulted in the enhanced osteogenic potential of hPDLMSCs. Subsequent experiments and analysis unveiled the involvement of retinoid X receptor (RXR) signaling in the inhibition of osteogenesis in hPDLMSCs. Ligands targeting the RXR receptor mirrored the effects of AOX1 on osteogenesis, as evidenced by alterations in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and bone formation levels. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential regulatory role of AOX1 via RXR signaling in the osteogenesis of hPDLMSCs. This elucidation is pivotal for advancing hPDLMSCs-based periodontal regeneration strategies and lays the groundwork for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing bone formation in the context of periodontal disease.