bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discursive interactions in the classroom. Ideas to expand research and enhance teaching practice to multiply opportunities to learn /Interacciones discursivas en el aula. Pistas para ampliar la investigación y potenciar la práctica docente
Authors: Sebastián Christian , Villarroel-Henríquez Verónica
Published: April 2024

During the last five decades, the scientific study of classroom talk has converged in the tradition of classroom dialogue. Empirical research has progressed, showing how dialogic forms of organizing classroom talk would be more conducive to student learning and development than monologic forms. However, two major problems remain unresolved. On the one hand, and despite the research mentioned above, teachers still mostly use a monological teaching method, thus arranging monological ways of organizing classroom discourse. On the other hand, our understanding of the psychological processes that would explain the relationship between the way of organizing classroom talk and learning is still limited. In the present article, we introduce a special section in which we have brought together six papers that sought to extend conceptually and methodologically the limits of the study of classroom talk by explicitly adopting the notion of discursive interactions in the classroom.
‘We’re in this together’ – COVID-19 statements by Boris Johnson: A discourse analysis
Authors: Imran Muhammad Asim , Ahmed Zehra
Published: April 2024

This article presents a discursive analysis of crisis communication strategies employed by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilising critical discourse analysis, the study examined official communications from March 2020 to January 2022. While Johnson's communication style encompassed empathy, assertiveness, and a focus on vaccination efforts, enhancing specificity, transparency, addressing potential inequalities, as well as prioritising community building, could have heightened the impact of his messages during the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining Boris Johnson's speeches as a case study, the research adds depth to the discourse on effective communication strategies employed by world leaders. The findings underscore the significance of clarity, adaptability, empathy, and reliance on scientific evidence in navigating the complexities of crisis communication.
Reflections on ecological social theory marking 50 years of E. F. Schumacher’s Small is Beautiful
Authors: Ford Lucy , Harris Neal
Published: April 2024

While not primarily a social theorist in the classical sense, E. F. Schumacher’s interdisciplinary thought helped galvanise ecological social theory and the ecological movement more broadly. In this article, we introduce a special issue of the European Journal of Social Theory dedicated to engaging with E. F. Schumacher’s Small is Beautiful on its 50th anniversary. We provide both an overview of his life and work before locating Small is Beautiful within both its contemporary context and within today’s social theoretical literature. As we show, Schumacher was a fierce critic of capitalist modernity and its ‘gigantist’ tendencies. As we discuss below, he advocated a metaphysical turn in economics, the implementation of intermediate technology and a reorientation of social practices in line with a more ecologically attuned political economy.
A quantitative and qualitative literature review of water damage in buildings occurring in building service systems, appliances and wet rooms
Authors: Mattsson Christian , Nordquist Birgitta , Johansson Dennis , Bagge Hans , Wallentén Petter
Published: April 2024

Water damage affects both residents and buildings. Issues include moisture, climate impact and repair costs that amount to immense resources. Because of these, immense resources research is important to undertake to reduce and limit the extent and effects of water damage. This study aimed to compile and review the literature on water damage in buildings. Literature distribution, the status, consequences, effects, and strategies and methods for prevention of water damage were assessed by compiling and reviewing literature using quantitative and qualitative methods. Two scientific databases were searched to identify the relevant literature. Key findings of this study are that research conducted on water damage is embedded in the study of building defects and building pathology, and more specific research on water damage is needed depending on different rooms and buildings, the effect of moisture and sustainability. Informed and guided decisions, management and organizational structures have been internationally suggested as a part of the solution to reducing the amount and effect of defects and could have the possibility to reduce the amount and effect of water damage. However, there is a gap in research on water damage consequences, occurrence and costs in Nordic conditions.
The investigation of laser beam interaction with aluminum/titanium overlap joint
Authors: Raja Kumar M , Tomashchuk I , Jouvard J-M , Duband M
Published: April 2024

In-situ analysis of dissimilar laser welding in overlap configuration, which finds the most frequent application in industry, attracts an increasing attention of the research community. In the present work, emission spectroscopy and high-speed imaging were used to investigate the vapor plume behavior during a Yb:YAG laser pulse on the overlap joint between pure titanium and aluminum alloy A5754. A 15 ms long laser pulse was applied to the overlap joints, where titanium and then A5754 were placed on the top. Correlation of the obtained results with post-mortem observation of the impact zones and with a finite-element model of the keyhole evolution was performed. The combination of these approaches facilitated the development of a comprehensive phenomenological timelines of the processes, along with an evaluation of the efficacy of the employed online methods to discern the involvement of the bottom material with the melted zone. The considered configurations showed very different behavior: with reflective A5754 placed on top, the use of high laser power produced an intense keyhole propagation in bottom titanium plate, inducing rapid mix between the elements, while with titanium on top, the use of lower laser power produced prolongated keyhole stagnation at the interface with reflective A5754. High-speed imaging showed very fluctuating behavior of the plume, where the involvement of the bottom material was traduced either by a drastic drop of thermal and atomic emission after the keyhole tip enters the bottom A5754 plate, or by strong periodic bursts of Ti-rich jet after the keyhole reaches the bottom titanium plate. The results of emission spectroscopy were found in adequation with the involvement of bottom material into the melted zone, however, they are affected by plume fluctuations and by the pollution of the top plate by volatile elements.
SMEs’ resilience and cross-industry innovation before and after a crisis
Authors: Faeroevik Kaya Haugland
Published: April 2024

Industry crises regularly threaten the existence of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and place demands on their resilience while simultaneously providing opportunities for cross-industry innovation (CII). The current literature on CII has not examined how SMEs engaged in CII during a crisis. Using in-depth interviews conducted prior to the oil crisis in 2014 and at the end of the crisis in 2018, we evaluate how the disposition of nine SMEs towards CII contributes to their resilience. We show that CII capabilities strategy and mindset promote absorptive and adaptive resilience. Further, the longitudinal aspect highlights the mismatch between CII opportunities identified during prosperity and SMEs’ ability to realise these opportunities during a crisis. This is often rooted in the challenges of understanding the industry structure of the new CII segment. Successful CII is positive for SMEs’ resilience, and policy initiatives should strive to bridge industries, providing transparency for SMEs pursuing CII.
Risk factors of in-hospital mortality and discriminating capacity of NIVO score in exacerbations of COPD requiring noninvasive ventilation
Authors: Zhang Jiarui , Yi Qun , Zhou Chen , Luo Yuanming , Wei Hailong , Ge Huiqing , Liu Huiguo , Zhang Jianchu , Li Xianhua , Xie Xiufang , Pan Pinhua , Yi Mengqiu , Cheng Lina , Zhou Hui , Liu Liang , Aili Adila , Liu Yu , Peng Lige , Pu Jiaqi , Zhou Haixia ,   on behalf of the MAGNET AECOPD Registry Investigators
Published: April 2024

Background

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) is recommended as the initial mode of ventilation to treat acute respiratory failure in patients with AECOPD. The Noninvasive Ventilation Outcomes (NIVO) score has been proposed to evaluate the prognosis in patients with AECOPD requiring assisted NIV. However, it is not validated in Chinese patients.

Methods

We used data from the MAGNET AECOPD Registry study, which is a prospective, noninterventional, multicenter, real-world study conducted between September 2017 and July 2021 in China. Data for the potential risk factors of mortality were collected and the NIVO score was calculated, and the in-hospital mortality was evaluated using the NIVO risk score.

Results

A total of 1164 patients were included in the study, and 57 patients (4.9%) died during their hospital stay. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age ≥75 years, DBP <60 mmHg, Glasgow Coma Scale ≤14, anemia and BUN >7 mmol/L were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. The in-hospital mortality was associated with an increase in the risk level of NIVO score and the difference was statistically significant ( p < .001). The NIVO risk score showed an acceptable accuracy for predicting the in-hospital mortality in AECOPD requiring assisted NIV (AUC: 0.657, 95% CI: 0.584-0.729, p < .001).

Conclusion

Our findings identified predictors of mortality in patients with AECOPD receiving NIV, providing useful information to identify severe patients and guide the management of AECOPD. The NIVO score showed an acceptable predictive value for AECOPD receiving NIV in Chinese patients, and additional studies are needed to develop and validate predictive scores based on specific populations.
Exploring the Nexus of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Aggression in Children and Adolescents: A Scoping Review
Authors: Stoppelbein Laura , McRae Elizabeth , Smith Shana
Published: April 2024

A strong relation between adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and aggression has been established in adult populations, with less research examining this relation earlier in development. The purpose of this study was to complete a scoping review of the current evidence available on the relation between ACE and aggression and subtypes of aggression within a child and adolescent population. Inclusion criteria for the review included publications in English between 1998 and 2023, use of a child/adolescent population, and peer-review and quantitative publications. Databases searched included PubMed, APA PsycINFO, Scopus, and EBSCO, and search terms included words related to ACE and aggression. Initial selection was based on title and abstract, with 32 papers meeting eligibility criteria for inclusion. Two authors extracted the relevant characteristics of the studies independently and conferred on any disagreements. The overall findings from the scoping review suggest that there is a strong link between aggression and ACE; however, this link may not be as strong for specific subtypes of aggression. Additionally, characteristics of ACE may play role in understanding this relation, but little research is available within a child and adolescent population. A few studies have attempted to examine potential mediators and moderators of this relation; however, none have been replicated within a child and adolescent population. The findings from this review support the need for additional research in this area and identify significant gaps in the literature that need to be addressed within a child and adolescent population.
A patch-based real-time six degrees of freedom object pose refinement method for robotic manipulation
Authors: Yang Yang , Jiang Qian , Mu Quan , Huang Hanlin , Yang Tian , Li Wenbo , Yuan Yilin , Wen Jian , Liu Fei
Published: April 2024

A fundamental vision technique for industrial robots involves the six degrees of freedom pose estimation of target objects from a single image. However, the direct estimation of the six degrees of freedom object pose solely from a single image is subject to limited accuracy. Various refinement approaches have been proposed to improve the accuracy by utilizing rendered images from a 3D model. Nevertheless, balancing speed and accuracy in an industrial setting remains a challenge for these methods. In this study, we propose a novel six degrees of freedom pose refinement approach centered around matching real image patches. Unlike previous approaches, our method does not rely on a 3D model, resulting in increased speed and accuracy. In the offline phase, we construct an offline database using image patches obtained from real images. During the inference phase, our method initially identifies the image patch within the offline database that is closest to the initial pose. Subsequently, we refine the six degrees of freedom pose by matching the corresponding image patches from the offline database. Experimental results indicate that our six degrees of freedom pose refinement method achieves real-time capability with a frame rate of 71 Frames Per Second (FPS), along with high precision. When the threshold is set to 0.5% of the object diameter, the average distance of dots score on the test data surpasses 70%. Moreover, experiments involving gripping and assembling tasks on an industrial robot demonstrate the ability of our method to autonomously select appropriate grasping angles and positions in real time. It further generates suitable motion paths, ultimately ensuring production efficiency.
Clinical impact of body mass index on outcomes of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes
Authors: Miwa Kaori , Nakai Michikazu , Yoshimura Sohei , Sasahara Yusuke , Wada Shinichi , Koge Junpei , Ishigami Akiko , Yagita Yoshiki , Kamiyama Kenji , Miyamoto Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Shotai , Minematsu Kazuo , Toyoda Kazunori , Koga Masatoshi
Published: April 2024

Background and aim:

To investigate the prognostic implication of body mass index (BMI) on clinical outcomes after acute ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.

Methods:

The subjects of the study included adult patients with available baseline body weight and height data who had suffered an acute stroke and were registered in the Japan Stroke Data Bank—a hospital-based, multicenter stroke registration database—between January 2006 and December 2020. The outcome measures included unfavorable outcomes defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 5–6 and favorable outcomes (mRS 0–2) at discharge, and in-hospital mortality. Mixed effects logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between BMI categories (underweight, normal weight, overweight, class I obesity, class II obesity; <18.5, 18.5–23.0, 23.0–25.0, 25–30, ⩾30 kg/m2) and the outcomes, after adjustment for covariates.

Results:

A total of 56,230 patients were assigned to one of the following groups: ischemic stroke (IS, n = 43,668), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH, n = 9741), and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH, n = 2821). In the IS group, being underweight was associated with an increased likelihood of unfavorable outcomes (odds ratio, 1.47 (95% confidence interval (CI):1.31−1.65)) and in-hospital mortality (1.55 (1.31−1.83)) compared to outcomes in those with normal weight. Being overweight was associated with an increased likelihood of favorable outcomes (1.09 (1.01−1.18)). Similar associations were observed between underweight and these outcomes in specific IS subtypes (cardioembolic stroke, large artery stroke, and small-vessel occlusion). Patients with a BMI ⩾30.0 kg/m2 was associated with an increased likelihood of unfavorable outcomes (1.44 (1.01−2.17)) and in-hospital mortality (2.42 (1.26−4.65)) in large artery stroke. In patients with ICH, but not those with SAH, being underweight was associated with an increased likelihood of unfavorable outcomes (1.41 (1.01−1.99)).

Conclusions:

BMI substantially impacts functional outcomes following IS and ICH. Lower BMI consistently affected post-stroke disability and mortality, while higher BMI values similarly affected these outcomes after large artery stroke.
Factors enabling and hindering sporting success among South African elite athletes from historically disadvantaged areas: Through a coaching lens
Authors: Mthombeni Solomon , Coopoo Yoga , Noorbhai Habib
Published: April 2024

Sporting success among nations provides a sense of value and national pride. This paper evaluated the perceptions and experiences of national coaches on the enablers and hindrances of international sporting success by elite athletes from historically disadvantaged areas (HDA) using the SPLISS framework. A qualitative research study design was employed for this study. Ten internationally recognised coaches (46.7 ± 12.9 years) volunteered for the study. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Data was analysed using a computer software programme. Governance, organisation and sports policies, coach provision, local/international competition access, bursaries/scholarships and sport volunteerism were perceived as enablers, while lack of financial support, foundation level participation, school sport, athlete retention, sports facilities, reliable transport system and scientific support were perceived to be hindrances to sporting success. The findings highlight the need for policymakers to oversee and ensure a systemic governance approach with an integrated sports support system and effective policies, institutions and strategic planning, coupled with an adequate budget allocation in support of this system to facilitate elite sports success.
Reliability estimation and order-restricted inference based on joint type-II progressive censoring scheme with application to splashing data in atomization process
Authors: Panahi Hanieh
Published: April 2024

Censoring commonly occurs in real-world scenarios, either intentionally or unintentionally. In addition, in engineering and applied studies, two or more populations are required to perform the experiment. In this article, we develop the order-restricted ( OR) statistical inference of two inverted exponentiated Rayleigh ( IERayleigh) populations based on the joint type-II progressive censoring scheme ( J-IIProgCS). We also consider the problem of the stress-strength reliability Re = P( X> Y) estimation under J-IIProgCS. The process of estimating the parameters with order restriction ( PaR-OR) and Re are performed using the maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian methods. On the presumption that the gamma priors are independent, the Bayesian estimate of reliability model is obtained using the hybrid Gibbs within Metropolis-Hastings ( G-MeHa) algorithm. Moreover, with assumption the ordered Beta-Gamma prior for the shape parameters and the Gamma prior for the common scale parameter, the Bayes estimates of the parameters with order restriction are evaluated. The classical confidence intervals and the Bayesian credible interval are created. A detailed numerical illustration using simulated data sets is carried out. A real engineering example related to splashing phenomenon is considered for illustrative purposes.
Turnover Intention Among ICT Professionals in Brazilian Public Organizations
Authors: Pereira Lucio Camilo Oliva , Albuquerque Nina Braga Cavalcanti de , Valle Rodrigo de Souza , Morgado de Gois Sandra Regina Freitas da Silva , Goncalves Antonio Augusto
Published: April 2024

This study investigates turnover intentions within the context of Brazilian public organizations, focusing on Information and Communications Technology professionals. Moreover, the research highlights the factors influencing turnover intentions and underscores the critical role of remote work and compensation satisfaction, particularly salary, in shaping these intentions. The desire for the flexibility inherent in remote work and the emphasis on equitable and competitive compensation packages emerge as critical drivers for retaining technology professionals. In addition to these key factors, these findings underscore organizations’ need to adopt effective retention strategies, encompassing policies that endorse remote work alternatives and establish competitive compensation norms. By addressing these factors, Brazilian public institutions can cultivate a stable and committed technology professionals workforce. Consequently, this study enriches the understanding of strategic decision-making and human resource practices, offering pertinent insights for organizational enhancement.
Burden of cardiac arrhythmias in patients with acute myocardial infarction and their impact on hospitalization outcomes: insights from China acute myocardial infarction (CAMI) registry
Authors: Xu Xu , Wang Zhao , Yang Jingang , Fan Xiaohan , Yang Yuejin
Published: April 2024

Background

The coexistence of cardiac arrhythmias in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) usually exhibits poor prognosis. However, there are few contemporary data available on the burden of cardiac arrhythmias in AMI patients and their impact on in-hospital outcomes.

Methods

The present study analyzed data from the China Acute Myocardial Infarction (CAMI) registry involving 23,825 consecutive AMI patients admitted to 108 hospitals from January 2013 to February 2018. Cardiac arrhythmias were defined as the presence of bradyarrhythmias, sustained atrial tachyarrhythmias, and sustained ventricular tachyarrhythmias that occurred during hospitalization. In-hospital outcome was defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, cardiogenic shock, re-infarction, stroke, or heart failure.

Results

Cardiac arrhythmia was presented in 1991 (8.35%) AMI patients, including 3.4% ventricular tachyarrhythmias, 2.44% bradyarrhythmias, 1.78% atrial tachyarrhythmias, and 0.73% ≥2 kinds of arrhythmias. Patients with arrhythmias were more common with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (83.3% vs. 75.5%, P < 0.001), fibrinolysis (12.8% vs. 8.0%, P < 0.001), and previous heart failure (3.7% vs. 1.5%, P < 0.001). The incidences of in-hospital outcomes were 77.0%, 50.7%, 43.5%, and 41.4%, respectively, in patients with ≥ 2 kinds of arrhythmias, ventricular tachyarrhythmias, bradyarrhythmias, and atrial tachyarrhythmias, and were significantly higher in all patients with arrhythmias than those without arrhythmias (48.9% vs. 12.5%, P < 0.001). The presence of any kinds of arrhythmia was independently associated with an increased risk of hospitalization outcome (≥ 2 kinds of arrhythmias, OR 26.83, 95%CI 18.51–38.90; ventricular tachyarrhythmias, OR 8.56, 95%CI 7.34–9.98; bradyarrhythmias, OR 5.82, 95%CI 4.87–6.95; atrial tachyarrhythmias, OR4.15, 95%CI 3.38–5.10), and in-hospital mortality (≥ 2 kinds of arrhythmias, OR 24.44, 95%CI 17.03–35.07; ventricular tachyarrhythmias, OR 13.61, 95%CI 10.87–17.05; bradyarrhythmias, OR 7.85, 95%CI 6.0-10.26; atrial tachyarrhythmias, OR 4.28, 95%CI 2.98–6.16).

Conclusion

Cardiac arrhythmia commonly occurred in patients with AMI might be ventricular tachyarrhythmias, followed by bradyarrhythmias, atrial tachyarrhythmias, and ≥ 2 kinds of arrhythmias. The presence of any arrhythmias could impact poor hospitalization outcomes.

Registration

Clinical Trial Registration: Identifier: NCT01874691.
Primary Technology Enhanced Care Home HbA1c Testing (PTEC HAT) programme: a feasibility pilot study in Singapore
Authors: Tyagi Shilpa , Koh Gerald Choon-Huat , Lee Eng Sing , Ong Kah Pieng , Heng Roy , Er Lian Hwa , Oh Evonne , Teo Valerie , Ng David Wei Liang
Published: April 2024

Background

Considering time-consuming, cost-related limitations of laboratory-based HbA1c testing and follow-up clinic visits for diabetes management, it is important to explore alternative care models which incorporate point-of-care testing for HbA1c to monitor glycaemic control and related management.

Methods

Therefore, we adopted an implementation perspective to conduct one group pre- and post-intervention feasibility pilot assessing feasibility, acceptability and satisfaction with conducting home HbA1c test by patients with type 2 diabetes coupled with telemonitoring and teleconsultations (i.e., the Primary Technology Enhanced Care (PTEC) Home HbA1c Testing (HAT) Programme) in Singaporean primary care setting. The secondary objective was to compare the HbA1c, blood pressure and primary care visits at the end or during intervention, vs. 6 months before. Adult patients with type 2 diabetes with HbA1c ≤ 8% without any diabetes complications and having phone compatibility were recruited. Data was collected via patient self-reports and electronic medical records extraction. While summary statistics and paired t-test were computed for quantitative data, open-ended feedback was analysed using content analysis.

Results

A total of 33 participants completed the intervention out of 37 (33/37 = 89%) recruited from 73 eligible (37/73 = 51%). Most were either 51 to 60 years old (46.9%) or more than 60 years (37.5%), with more males (53.1%) and majority Chinese (93.8%). Majority (81.3%) felt that home HbA1c testing was beneficial with most commonly reported benefit of not having a clinic visit. A key finding was the average of diabetes-related visits being significantly lower post-intervention with comparable HbA1c values pre- and post-intervention. The most commonly reported challenge was using Bluetooth to transmit the reading (43.7%), followed by having too many steps to remember (28.1%). While participants reported being overall satisfied with the intervention, only 22% were willing to pay for it.

Conclusion

Our findings support home HbA1c testing by patients coupled with telemonitoring and teleconsultations. Following are practical recommendations for the implementation scaling phase: offering PTEC HAT Programme to suitable patients who are self-motivated and have adequate digital literacy, provision of adequate educational and training support, sending reminders and exploring enabling manual submission of HbA1c readings considering Bluetooth-related challenges.
The process of hip fracture management before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran
Authors: Yalamchi Fatemeh , Khalagi Kazem , Fahimfar Noushin , Tabrizian Pouria , Sanjari Mahnaz , Mansourzadeh Mohammad Javad , Ostovar Afshin , Asadi-Lari Mohsen
Published: April 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the control of many chronic conditions, including hip fractures, worldwide. This study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of hip fractures in a referral orthopedic hospital in Iran. By understanding how the pandemic has influenced the care of hip fracture patients, we can gain valuable insights into the challenges, adaptations, and potential improvements in orthopedic healthcare during such public health crises.

Methods

Data was collected on hip fracture patients aged 50 and above who were admitted to the hospital before and during the pandemic. The number of admissions and operations, length of hospital stay, and time from admission to surgery were recorded from the hospital information system (HIS) and compared between the two periods.

Results

The median number of admitted hip fracture patients per month increased slightly during the pandemic (11%), although this increase was not statistically significant (p = 0.124). After adjusting for potential confounders, the mean length of hospital stay was significantly lower during the pandemic period, indicating that patients were discharged sooner (p = 0.019) and the time from admission to surgery was shorter during the pandemic (p = 0.004). Although the increase in the number of hip fracture surgeries per month during the pandemic was not statistically significant (P = 0.132), a higher percentage of patients underwent surgery during the pandemic compared to before (84.8% VS. 79.4%).

Conclusion

The study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic did not have a negative impact on hip fracture management in the investigated orthopedic hospital in Iran. further research is needed to explore the effects of the pandemic on other aspects of healthcare services, particularly in general hospitals.
Spontaneous isolated gastric intramural hematoma combined with spontaneous superior mesenteric artery intermural hematoma: a rare case
Authors: Zhang Zhenxing , Wang Shan , Tao Kelong , Zhang Guolin , Guo Danling , Zhang Yu , Xu Guangen
Published: April 2024

Background

Gastric intramural hematoma is a rare disease. Here we report a case of spontaneous isolated gastric intramural hematoma combined with spontaneous superior mesenteric artery intermural hematoma.

Case presentation

A 75-years-old man was admitted to our department with complaints of abdominal pain. He underwent a whole abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan in the emergency department, which showed extensive thickening of the gastric wall in the gastric body and sinus region with enlarged surrounding lymph nodes, localized thickening of the intestinal wall in the transverse colon, localized indistinct demarcation between the stomach and transverse colon, and a small amount of fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity. Immediately afterwards, he was admitted to our department, and then we arranged a computed tomography with intravenously administered contrast agent showed a spontaneous isolated gastric intramural hematoma combined with spontaneous superior mesenteric artery intermural hematoma. Therefore, we treated him with anticoagulation and conservative observation. During his stay in the hospital, he was given low-molecular heparin by subcutaneous injection for anticoagulation therapy, and after discharge, he was given oral anticoagulation therapy with rivaroxaban. At the follow-up of more than 4 months, most of the intramural hematoma was absorbed and became significantly smaller, and the intermural hematoma of the superior mesenteric artery was basically absorbed, which also confirmed that the intramural mass was an intramural hematoma.

Conclusion

A gastric intramural hematoma should be considered, when an intra-abdominal mass was found to be attached to the gastric wall. Proper recognition of gastric intramural hematoma can reduce the misdiagnosis rate of confusion with gastric cancer.
Antimicrobial activity of cefepime-tazobactam combination against extended spectrum beta-lactamase and/or AmpC beta-lactamase- producing gram-negative bacilli
Authors: Elawady Basma Ahmed , Mahmoud Noha Refaat , Badawi Hala El-Sayed , Badr Azza Essam Eldin , Gohar Noha Mahmoud
Published: April 2024

Background

The problem of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, which is caused by ESBL and AmpC β-lactamases, is getting worse globally. Infections caused by bacterial isolates harboring these enzymes are difficult to treat with carbapenems being the sole effective treatment option for such infections. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of ESBLs and AmpC-producing Gram-negative bacilli isolated from clinical specimens and to evaluate the sensitivity of cefepime-tazobactam combination against them.

Methods

This is an observational cross-sectional study carried out on 100 Gram-negative bacilli at Theodor Bilharz Research Institute Hospital during the period from February 2015 to January 2016. ESBL production was screened by using the disc diffusion test followed by confirmation by the combined disc confirmatory test, the screening for AmpC production was conducted using the cefoxitin disc test, which was subsequently confirmed by the AmpC disc test. Isolates confirmed positive for ESBL and/ or AmpC production were investigated for their susceptibility to antibiotics.

Results

Among 100 Gram-negative bacilli, 44 isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers by the combined disc confirmatory test out of 56 isolates that tested positive for ESBL production through the disc diffusion test. The presence of AmpC production was assessed using the cefoxitin disc test, 32 isolates were screened to be AmpC producers, and the AmpC disc test confirmed AmpC production in 9 isolates of them. Using the Mast® D68C set, 32 isolates were ESBL producers, 3 were AmpC producers, and 4 isolates were ESBL/AmpC co-producers. The highest sensitivity was to cefepime-tazobactam (91.48%) followed by the carbapenems.

Conclusion

Cefepime-tazobactam showed remarkable activity against ESBL and/or AmpC-producing Gram-negative bacilli and may be considered as a therapeutic alternative to carbapenems.
Identification of BGN positive fibroblasts as a driving factor for colorectal cancer and development of its related prognostic model combined with machine learning
Authors: Hu Shangshang , Xiao Qianni , Gao Rui , Qin Jian , Nie Junjie , Chen Yuhan , Lou Jinwei , Ding Muzi , Pan Yuqin , Wang Shukui
Published: April 2024

Background

Numerous studies have indicated that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there are still many unknowns regarding the exact role of CAF subtypes in CRC.

Methods

The data for this study were obtained from bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomic sequencing data. Bioinformatics analysis, in vitro experiments, and machine learning methods were employed to investigate the functional characteristics of CAF subtypes and construct prognostic models.

Results

Our study demonstrates that Biglycan (BGN) positive cancer-associated fibroblasts (BGN + Fib) serve as a driver in colorectal cancer (CRC). The proportion of BGN + Fib increases gradually with the progression of CRC, and high infiltration of BGN + Fib is associated with poor prognosis in terms of overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in CRC. Downregulation of BGN expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) significantly reduces migration and proliferation of CRC cells. Among 101 combinations of 10 machine learning algorithms, the StepCox[both] + plsRcox combination was utilized to develop a BGN + Fib derived risk signature (BGNFRS). BGNFRS was identified as an independent adverse prognostic factor for CRC OS and RFS, outperforming 92 previously published risk signatures. A Nomogram model constructed based on BGNFRS and clinical-pathological features proved to be a valuable tool for predicting CRC prognosis.

Conclusion

In summary, our study identified BGN + Fib as drivers of CRC, and the derived BGNFRS was effective in predicting the OS and RFS of CRC patients.
Application and effect of tension-reducing suture in surgical treatment of hypertrophic scar
Authors: Chen Jingjing , Mo Yan , Chen Yadan , Ma Zhouji , Shen Siyun , Sang Hong , Tan Qian , Mo Ran
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To investigate the application and effectiveness of tension-reducing suture in the repair of hypertrophic scars.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of clinical data was conducted on 82 patients with hypertrophic scars treated at the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from September 2021 to December 2022. Patients were operated with combination of heart-shaped tension-reducing suturing technique and looped, broad, and deep buried (LBD) suturing technique or conventional suture method. Outcomes of surgical treatment were assessed before and 6 months after surgery using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS).

Results

Improvements were achieved on scar quality compared to that preoperatively, with a reduction in scar width (1.7 ± 0.6 cm vs. 0.7 ± 0.2 cm, P < 0.001). Assessment using the POSAS and VSS scales showed significant improvements in each single parameter and total score compared to preoperative values (P < 0.05). The Combination method group achieved better score in total score of VSS scale, in color, stiffness, thickness and overall opinion of PSAS scale, and in vascularity, thickness, pliability and overall opinion of OSAS scale.

Conclusion

The amalgamation of the heart-shaped tension-reducing suturing technique and the LBD suturing technique has shown promising outcomes, garnering notably high levels of patient satisfaction in the context of hypertrophic scar repair. Patients have exhibited favorable postoperative recoveries, underscoring the clinical merit and the prospective broader applicability of this approach in the realm of hypertrophic scar management.
RT-QuIC detection of chronic wasting disease prion in platelet samples of white-tailed deer
Authors: Kobashigawa Estela , Russell Sherri , Zhang Michael Z. , Sinnott Emily A. , Connolly Michael , Zhang Shuping
Published: April 2024

Background

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a prion disease of captive and free-ranging cervids. Currently, a definitive diagnosis of CWD relies on immunohistochemistry detection of PrPSc in the obex and retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) of the affected cervids. For high-throughput screening of CWD in wild cervids, RPLN samples are tested by ELISA followed by IHC confirmation of positive results. Recently, real-time quacking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) has been used to detect CWD positivity in various types of samples. To develop a blood RT-QuIC assay suitable for CWD diagnosis, this study evaluated the assay sensitivity and specificity with and without ASR1-based preanalytical enrichment and NaI as the main ionic component in assay buffer.

Results

A total of 23 platelet samples derived from CWD-positive deer (ELISA + /IHC +) and 30 platelet samples from CWD-negative (ELISA-) deer were tested. The diagnostic sensitivity was 43.48% (NaCl), 65.22% (NaI), 60.87% (NaCl-ASR1) or 82.61% (NaI-ASR1). The diagnostic specificity was 96.67% (NaCl), 100% (NaI), 100% (NaCl-ASR1), or 96.67% (NaI-ASR1). The probability of detecting CWD prion in platelet samples derived from CWD-positive deer was 0.924 (95% CRI: 0.714, 0.989) under NaI-ASR1 experimental condition and 0.530 (95% CRI: 0.156, 0.890) under NaCl alone condition. The rate of amyloid formation (RFA) was greatest under the NaI-ASR1 condition at 10–2 (0.01491, 95% CRI: 0.00675, 0.03384) and 10–3 (0.00629, 95% CRI: 0.00283, 0.01410) sample dilution levels.

Conclusions

Incorporation of ASR1-based preanalytical enrichment and NaI as the main ionic component significantly improved the sensitivity of CWD RT-QuIC on deer platelet samples. Blood test by the improved RT-QuIC assay may be used for antemortem and postmortem diagnosis of CWD.
The additive effect of metabolic syndrome on left ventricular impairment in patients with obstructive coronary artery disease assessed by 3.0 T cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking
Authors: Min Chen-Yan , Gao Yue , Jiang Yi-Ning , Guo Ying-Kun , Shi Ke , Yang Zhi‑Gang , Li Yuan
Published: April 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) can increase the risk of morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular disease and obstructive coronary artery disease (OCAD), which usually have a poor prognosis. This study aimed to explore the impact of MetS on left ventricular (LV) deformation and function in OCAD patients and investigate the independent factors of impaired LV function and deformation.

Materials and methods

A total of 121 patients with OCAD and 52 sex- and age-matched controls who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance scanning were enrolled in the study. All OCAD patients were divided into two groups: OCAD with MetS [OCAD(MetS+), n = 83] and OCAD without MetS [OCAD(MetS−), n = 38]. LV functional and global strain parameters were measured and compared among the three groups. Multivariable linear regression analyses were constructed to investigate the independent factors of LV impairment in OCAD patients. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed to test the prediction efficiency of MetS for LV impairment.

Results

From controls to the OCAD(MetS−) group to the OCAD(MetS+) group, LV mass (LVM) increased, and LV global function index (LVGFI) and LV global longitudinal peak strain (GLPS) decreased (all p < 0.05). Compared with the OCAD(MetS−) group, the LV GLPS declined significantly (p = 0.027), the LVM increased (p = 0.006), and the LVGFI decreased (p = 0.043) in the OCAD(MetS+) group. After adjustment for covariates in OCAD patients, MetS was an independent factor of decreased LV GLPS (β = − 0.211, p = 0.002) and increased LVM (β = 0.221, p = 0.003). The logistic multivariable regression analysis and ROC analysis showed that combined MetS improved the efficiency of predicting LV GLPS reduction (AUC = 0.88) and LVM (AUC = 0.89) increase.

Conclusions

MetS aggravated the damage of LV deformation and function in OCAD patients and was independently associated with LV deformation and impaired LV strain. Additionally, MetS increased the prediction efficiency of increased LVM and decreased LV GLPS. Early detection and intervention of MetS in patients with OCAD is of great significance.
PPP2R1A silencing suppresses LUAD progression by sensitizing cells to nelfinavir-induced apoptosis and pyroptosis
Authors: Liu Yating , Ouyang Lianlian , Jiang Shiyao , Liang Lu , Chen Yuanbing , Mao Chao , Jiang Yiqun , Cong Li
Published: April 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma is a major public health problem with the low 5-year survival rate (15%) among cancers. Aberrant alterations of meiotic genes, which have gained increased attention recently, might contribute to elevated tumor risks. However, systematic and comprehensive studies based on the relationship between meiotic genes and LUAD recurrence and treatment response are still lacking. In this manuscript, we first confirmed that the meiosis related prognostic model (MRPM) was strongly related to LUAD progression via LASSO-Cox regression analyses. Furthermore, we identified the role of PPP2R1A in LUAD, which showed more contributions to LUAD process compared with other meiotic genes in our prognostic model. Additionally, repression of PPP2R1A enhances cellular susceptibility to nelfinavir-induced apoptosis and pyroptosis. Collectively, our findings indicated that meiosis-related genes might be therapeutic targets in LUAD and provided crucial guidelines for LUAD clinical intervention.

Graphical Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis induces energy imbalance and dyskinesia in mice by reducing the expression of melanin-concentrating hormone
Authors: Huang Hui , Zhang Zhongyuan , Xing Mengdan , Jin Zihan , Hu Yue , Zhou Minyu , Wei Hang , Liang Yiwen , Lv Zhiyue
Published: April 2024

Background

Infection with Angiostrongylus cantonensis (AC) in humans or mice can lead to severe eosinophilic meningitis or encephalitis, resulting in various neurological impairments. Developing effective neuroprotective drugs to improve the quality of life in affected individuals is critical.

Methods

We conducted a Gene Ontology enrichment analysis on microarray gene expression (GSE159486) in the brains of AC-infected mice. The expression levels of melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) were confirmed through real-time quantitative PCR (RT–qPCR) and immunofluorescence. Metabolic parameters were assessed using indirect calorimetry, and mice’s energy metabolism was evaluated via pathological hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, serum biochemical assays, and immunohistochemistry. Behavioral tests assessed cognitive and motor functions. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of synapse-related proteins. Mice were supplemented with MCH via nasal administration.

Results

Postinfection, a marked decrease in Pmch expression and the encoded MCH was observed. Infected mice exhibited significant weight loss, extensive consumption of sugar and white fat tissue, reduced movement distance, and decreased speed, compared with the control group. Notably, nasal administration of MCH countered the energy imbalance and dyskinesia caused by AC infection, enhancing survival rates. MCH treatment also increased the expression level of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) and microtubule-associated protein-2 (MAP2), as well as upregulated transcription level of B cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) in the cortex.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that MCH improves dyskinesia by reducing loss of synaptic proteins, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for AC infection.

Graphical Abstract
Factors associated with help-seeking regarding sexual orientation concerns among Japanese gay and bisexual men: results from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Kaneko Noriyo , Hill Adam Orlando , Shiono Satoshi
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study investigates Japanese gay and bisexual men’s experiences of seeking help for emotional support from others regarding their sexual orientation concerns. It examines the relationship between their help-seeking and presence of gay and bisexual peers, duration between questioning their sexual orientation and accepting it, and experience of coming out to family members by multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-reported paper questionnaire. There were 360 valid responses. Eighty-two respondents (22.8%) had experience of help-seeking for emotional support, and this was associated with age, occupation, presence of gay/bisexual friends, and experience of coming out to family members about their sexual orientation. Respondents sought the most help from their male friends (70.0%), followed by female friends (25.0%), mothers (17.5%), and the Internet (16.3%). Even after controlling for age and occupation, experience of help-seeking for emotional support was higher among participants who had gay/bisexual friends when they were aware of their sexual orientation, took < 1 year from questioning to realizing their sexual orientation, and had come out to their family about their sexual orientation.
Attitudes toward communication skills with learner needs assessment within radiology residency programs in China: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lian GengPeng , Xiao Yubin , Huang Yingling , Wang Huanpeng , Huang Lipeng , Yang Hongwu , Zhu Chunmin , Mei Wei , Huang Ruibin
Published: April 2024

Background

Communication skills (CS) represent a core competency in radiology residency training. However, no structured curriculum exists to train radiology residents in CS in China. The aim of this study was to evaluate the status and prevalence of doctor–patient communication training among radiology residents in nine Chinese accredited radiology residency training programs and to determine whether there is a perceived need for a formalized curriculum in this field.

Methods

We administered a cross-sectional online survey to radiology residents involved in CS training at nine standard residency training programs in China. The questionnaire developed for this study included CS training status, residents’ demographics, attitudes toward CS training, communication needs, and barriers. Residents’ attitudes toward CS training were measured with the Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS) and its subscales, a positive attitude scale (PAS) and negative attitude scale (NAS).

Results

A total of 133 (48.36%) residents participated in the survey. The mean total scores on the two dimensions of the CSAS were 47.61 ± 9.35 in the PAS and 36.34 ± 7.75 in the NAS. Factors found to be significantly associated with the PAS included receiving previous training in CS, medical ethics, or humanities and the doctor’s attire. We found that first-year residents and poor personal CS were the most influential factors on the NAS. Only 58.65% of participants reported having previously received CS training during medical school, and 72.93% of respondents reported failure in at least one difficult communication during their residency rotation. Most of those surveyed agreed that CS can be learned through courses and were interested in CS training. Some of the most common barriers to implementing formal CS training were a lack of time, no standardized curriculum, and a lack of materials and faculty expertise.

Conclusions

Most residents had a very positive attitude toward CS training and would value further training, despite the limited formal CS training for radiology residents in China. Future efforts should be made to establish and promote a standard and targeted CS curriculum for Chinese radiology residents.