bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What are the mechanisms of effect of group antenatal care? A systematic realist review and synthesis of the literature
Authors: Mehay Anita , Motta Giordana Da , Hunter Louise , Rayment Juliet , Wiggins Meg , Haora Penny , McCourt Christine , Harden Angela
Published: October 2024

Background

There is growing interest in the benefits of group models of antenatal care. Although clinical reviews exist, there have been few reviews that focus on the mechanisms of effect of this model.

Methods

We conducted a realist review using a systematic approach incorporating all data types (including non-research and audiovisual media), with synthesis along Context-Intervention-Mechanism-Outcome (CIMO) configurations.

Results

A wide range of sources were identified, yielding 100 relevant sources in total (89 written and 11 audiovisual). Overall, there was no clear pattern of ‘what works for whom, in what circumstances’ although some studies have identified clinical benefits for those with more vulnerability or who are typically underserved by standard care. Findings revealed six interlinking mechanisms, including: social support, peer learning, active participation in health, health education and satisfaction or engagement with care. A further, relatively under-developed theory related to impact on professional practice. An overarching mechanism of empowerment featured across most studies but there was variation in how this was collectively or individually conceptualised and applied.

Conclusions

Mechanisms of effect are amplified in contexts where inequalities in access and delivery of care exist, but poor reporting of populations and contexts limited fuller exploration. We recommend future studies provide detailed descriptions of the population groups involved and that they give full consideration to theoretical underpinnings and contextual factors.

Registration

The protocol for this realist review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO CRD42016036768).
Strategies for crowdsourcing hearing health information: a comparative study of educational programs and volunteer-based campaigns on Wikimedia
Authors: Morata Thais C. , Zucki Fernanda , Arrigo Adriano Jorge , Cruz Priscila Carvalho , Gong Wei , Matos Hector Gabriel Corrale de , Montilha Alexandre Alberto Pascotto , Peschanski João Alexandre , Cardoso Maria Julia , Lacerda Adriana Bender Moreira , Berberian Ana Paula , Araujo Eliene Silva , Luders Débora , Duarte Josilene Luciene , Jacob Regina Tangerino de Souza , Chadha Shelly , Mietchen Daniel , Rasberry Lane , Alvarenga Katia de Freitas , Jacob Lilian Cassia Bornia
Published: September 2024

Background

Several health institutions developed strategies to improve health content on Wikimedia platforms given their unparalleled reach. The objective of this study was to compare an online volunteer-based Wikimedia outreach campaign with university course Wikipedia assignments (both focused on improving hearing health content in Wikimedia’s public digital knowledge archives), in terms of the reach of the contributions and the extent of the participants’ input. A secondary objective was to examine the feasibility and the implementation of the different strategies.

Methods

The research team partnered for the (1) coordination of improvements in hearing and healthcare content through educational programs using Wikimedia platforms, (2) participation in the global campaign Wiki4WorldHearingDay2023 and (3) evaluation of the proposed strategies. Metrics used in the comparison of the two strategies included the number of articles edited, number of views of the edited articles (as reach) and the extent of edits, captured as the number of words. The feasibility evaluation included assessing recruitment success and the implementation of the proposed plan among faculty, students from various university programs, and volunteers representing different constituencies.

Results

The effort increased the availability of quality plain language information on hearing conditions and hearing care. Both strategies demonstrated to be feasible by their success in recruiting participants who contributed to the effort and by measurable outputs as edits. The contribution of content to Wikimedia platforms as part of education activities provided a more robust result. Wiki4WorldHearingDay2023 145 participants (78 from educational programs) contributed 167,000 words, 258 + references and 140 images to 322 Wikipedia articles (283 existing and 39 new ones), which were viewed 16.5 million times. Contributions occurred in six languages. Edits in Portuguese, mainly by those involved in educational programs, led the number of articles (226 or 70.2%) that were expanded or created during the 5-month tracking period.

Conclusions

The elements that contributed to the success of the studied strategies include an impact topic, coordination with educational programs, international multidisciplinary collaborations, the dissemination of the initiative in several platforms, connection with a robust local Wikimedia affiliate, and the use of a technical infrastructure that provides metrics and coordination mechanisms.

Graphical abstract
A modified Delphi survey to build expert consensus on the structure and content of an enhanced care pathway for cognitive changes after stroke in the UK
Authors: Hobden Georgina , Tang Eugene Yee Hing , Demeyere Nele
Published: October 2024

Background

Enhancing long-term support for post-stroke cognitive impairment is a top research priority. Addressing current gaps in UK post-stroke cognitive care provision requires a pragmatic and scalable intervention that can be integrated within the existing stroke care pathway. This study aimed to develop consensus on an initial set of core features for a UK-based monitoring and psychoeducational intervention for cognitive changes after stroke.

Methods

An expert panel of UK healthcare professionals and researchers participated in an online modified Delphi survey. Candidate intervention features were identified from clinical guidelines, existing literature, research team/collaborator expertise, and PPI group lived experience. Survey participants indicated whether they agreed/disagreed/had no opinion about including each candidate feature in the intervention and free-text responses were invited. We analysed responses for consensus (≥ 75% agreement) using descriptive statistics, with items not reaching consensus carried into subsequent rounds. Template analysis was used to identify similarities/differences in viewpoints for items that did not reach consensus.

Results

Three survey rounds were completed by 36, 29 and 26 participants, respectively. Participants agreed reviews should include a stroke-specific cognitive screen (97% agree) and assessment of other psychological changes (low mood, anxiety, fatigue: 94%, 90%, 89% agree, respectively). They agreed stroke survivors should be offered at least one review, regardless of their cognitive profile in hospital. They agreed on the importance of various cognition-focused psychoeducation topics, and formal (100% agree) and informal (79% agree) training for those conducting reviews. Consensus was not reached on the review mode (in person/remote options: 67% agree), offering reviews one-year post-discharge to patients without acute cognitive impairments (68% disagree), or including a dementia screen (63% disagree) and/or neuropsychological assessment battery (58% disagree). However, there were similarities in participant viewpoints. For example, participants emphasised the importance of onwards referral where clinically indicated.  

Conclusions

The UK-based post-stroke monitoring and psychoeducation intervention was originally conceptualised as a cognitive care pathway, but expert participants agreed on the importance of simultaneously addressing related psychological changes (e.g. low mood, anxiety). There was clear consensus on a minimum set of intervention features. Recommendations outlined here may usefully inform local service improvements.
The implementation of telemedicine in wound care: a qualitative study of nurses’ and patients’ experiences
Authors: Blytt Kjersti Marie , Kolltveit Beate-Christin Hope , Graue Marit , Robberstad Mari , Ternowitz Thomas , Carlsen Siri , Iversen Marjolein Memelink
Published: September 2024

Background

The increasing use of telemedicine (TM) represents a major shift for health workers and patients alike. Thus, there is a need for more knowledge on how these interventions work and are implemented. We conducted a qualitative process-evaluation alongside a larger randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate a telemedicine follow-up intervention for patients with a leg- or foot-ulcer, who either have or do not have diabetes. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to explore how both health care professionals and patients experienced the implementation of TM follow-up in primary care.

Methods

The intervention comprised an interactive TM platform facilitating guidance and counselling regarding wound care between nurses in primary care and nurses in specialist health care in Norway. Nurses and patients from seven clusters in the intervention arm were included in the study. We conducted 26 individual interviews (14 patients and 12 nurses) in primary care between December 2021 and March 2022. Thematic analyses were conducted.

Results

The analyses revealed the following themes: (1) enhancing professional self-efficacy for wound care, (2) a need to redesign the approach to implementing TM technology and (3) challenging to facilitate behavioral changes in relation to preventive care. As to patients’ experiences with taking part in the intervention, we found the following three themes: (1) experience with TM promotes a feeling of security over time, (2) patients’ preferences and individual needs on user participation in TM are not met, and (3) experiencing limited focus on prevention of re-ulceration.

Conclusions

TM presents both opportunities and challenges. Future implementation should focus on providing nurses with improved technological equipment and work on how to facilitate the use of TM in regular practice in order to fully capitalize on this new technology. Future TM interventions need to tailor the level of information and integrate a more systematic approach for working with preventive strategies.

Clinical trial registration

NCT01710774. Registration Date 2012-10-17.
Assessment of the renal function of patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Miyahara Hiroyuki , Shigeyasu Yoshie , Fujii Chikako , Tanaka Chie , Hanzawa Mana , Sugihara Akiko , Okada Ayumi , Tsukahara Hirokazu
Published: September 2024

Background

A decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), estimated using creatinine (Cr– eGFR), is often found at the initial presentation of anorexia nervosa (AN). Its pathophysiology has been explained mainly by dehydration, and chronic hypokalemia is also thought to be a cause. However, because we have often experienced cases of AN with decreased Cr-eGFR without these conditions, we must consider different etiologies. The focus of this paper is on low free triiodothyronine (FT3) syndrome. We also discuss the utility of eGFR, estimated using cystatin-C (CysC-eGFR), for these patients.

Methods

The data of 39 patients diagnosed with AN between January 2005 and December 2023 was available for study. The characteristics of patients at the lowest and highest body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS) were examined. Data on the parameters Cr-eGFR, CysC-eGFR, dehydration markers, potassium (K), and hormonal data and BMI-SDS were assessed during the treatment course to evaluate the correlations in these parameters. Blood hematocrit, uric acid (UA), blood urine nitrogen (BUN) level, and urine specific gravity were adopted as dehydration markers; FT3, free thyroxine, thyroid stimulating hormone, and insulin-like growth factor were adopted as hormonal data. Cr-eGFR and simultaneously evaluated dehydration markers, K, or hormonal data were extracted and correlations associated with the changes in BMI-SDS were examined. Furthermore, Cr-eGFR and simultaneously assessed CysC-eGFR were compared.

Results

When the BMI-SDS was at the lowest value, low-FT3 syndrome was shown. Severe hypokalemia was not found in our study. A linear relation was not found between Cr-eGFR and BMI-SDS. A statistically significant correlation was found between Cr-eGFR and FT3 (p = 0.0025). Among the dehydration markers, statistically significant correlations were found between Cr-eGFR and BUN or UA. The difference between Cr-eGFR and CysC-eGFR was prominent, and CysC-eGFR showed much higher values.

Conclusions

Our data indicates that low-FT3 syndrome and dehydration were related to the renal function of our patients with AN. Furthermore, our data suggest that caution is needed in the interpretation of kidney function evaluation when using CysC-eGFR in cases of AN.
Knee joint position sense and kinematic control in relation to motor competency in 13 to 14-year-old adolescents
Authors: Liu Yan-Ci , Esser Patrick , Weedon Benjamin David , Springett Daniella , Joshi Shawn , Tsou Meng-Hsuan , Wang Ray-Yau , Dawes Helen
Published: September 2024

Background

Motor competence (MC) is a key component reflecting one’s ability to execute motor tasks and is an important predictor of physical fitness. For adolescents, understanding the factors affecting MC is pertinent to their development of more sophisticated sporting skills. Previous studies considered the influence of poor proprioceptive ability on MC, however, the relationship between lower limb joint position sense, kinematic control, and MC is not well understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the relation between joint position sense and kinematic control with MC in adolescents during a lower limb movement reproduction task.

Methods

This study was a cross-sectional design. Young people (n = 427, 196 girls and 231 boys) aged 13 to 14 years were recruited. A movement reproduction task was used to assess joint position sense and kinematic control, while the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (mABC-2) was used to assess MC. In this study, participants were categorized into the Typically Developed (TD, n = 231) and Probable Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD, n = 80) groups for further analysis of joint position sense, kinematic control, and MC between groups.

Results

Kinematic data, specifically normalized jerk, showed a significant correlation with MC. There was no correlation between knee joint position sense and MC, and no group differences between DCD and TD were found.

Conclusions

Joint position sense should not be used as a measure to distinguish TD and DCD. Rather than joint position sense, control of kinematic movement has a greater influence on the coordination of the lower limbs in adolescents. Movement control training should be implemented in the clinical setting to target kinematic control, rather than focus on joint position sense practice, to improve motor competency.

Trial Registration Identifier

NCT03150784. Registered 12 May 2017, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03150784.
Sbno1 mediates cell–cell communication between neural stem cells and microglia through small extracellular vesicles
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Zhu Zhihan , Li Zhinuo , Feng Jia , Long Jun , Deng Yushu , Ahmed Waqas , Khan Ahsan Ali , Huang Shiying , Fu Qingling , Chen Lukui
Published: September 2024

Background

Neural stem cells (NSCs) play a crucial role in the progress of ischemic stroke. Research on zebrafish embryonic demonstrates an association between Strawberry Notch 1 (Sbno1) and central nervous system development. However, the regulation and underlying mechanism of Sbno1 in NSCs have not been studied yet. Here, we investigated the role and the mechanism of Sbno1 in NSCs development and the potential therapeutic value of Sbno1 in ischemic stroke.

Methods

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was used for overexpression or knockdown of Sbno1 in vitro or in vivo. A mouse model of MCAO was established to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of AAV-Sbno1, including balance beam test, rotarod test, and strength evaluation. H&E and immunofluorescence assessed neuronal impairment. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to detect the expression of Sbno1 and its downstream target genes. RNA-seq and western blot were performed to explore further molecular mechanisms by which Sbno1 promoted endogenous repair of NSCs and macrophages M2 polarization. CCK8 was conducted to assess the effects of Sbno1 on NSCs proliferation. The impact of Sbno1 on NSCs apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. NSCs derived from small extracellular vesicles (sEV) were obtained using ultracentrifugation and identified through nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blot analysis.

Results

Our results showed that Sbno1 is highly expressed in the central nervous system, which plays a crucial role in regulating the proliferation of NSCs through the PI3k-Akt-GSK3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In addition, with overexpression of Sbno1 in the hippocampus, post-stroke behavioral scores were superior to the wild-type mice, and immunofluorescence staining revealed an increased number of newly generated neurons.

sEV released by NSCs overexpressing Sbno1 inhibited neuroinflammation, which mechanistically impaired the activation of the microglial NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

Conclusions

Our studies indicate that sbno1 promotes the proliferation of NSCs and enhances endogenous repairing through the PI3k-Akt-GSK3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Additionally, NSCs overexpressing sbno1 improve ischemic stroke recovery and inhibit neuroinflammation after ischemia by sEV through the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.
Cultural rituality and heritage revitalization values of ancestral temple architecture painting art from the perspective of relational sociology theory
Authors: Li Weicong , Xie Qian , Shi Wenwen , Lin Haopai , He Jiaxin , Ao Jinghui
Published: September 2024

Recent research has primarily focused on the genealogical relationship between ancestral temple painting and its spatial carriers, highlighting a shift in perspective from artistry to symbolism to kinship. While some scholars have noted the influence of ritual culture on architectural painting, few have explored its kinship relationship with architectural carriers. By incorporating relational sociology theory, this study chronologically reviews events influencing the formation of ancestral temple ritual culture, constructs a developmental model, and conducts case studies on the ethicality of architectural painting art, thus establishing a relational sociology analysis framework. Findings: (1) Ancestral temple architectural painting exhibits the ethicality and educational value inherent in Confucian concepts; (2) Themes such as immortal life, literati and scholars, and common folk simplicity highlight the spiritual and material kinship of ancestral temple painting. The vocabulary used in titles such as "He (rapprochement-和)", "He (reunification-合)", "wealth (财)", "happiness (乐)", "blessing (福)", and "longevity (寿)" reveals a positive transmission of Confucian values; (3) The five main artistic expressions of ancestral temple painting are metaphor through objects (借物喻意), the personification of events (以人喻事), using the past to illuminate the present (借古喻今), expressing aspirations through objects (托物喻志), and pun-based symbolism (谐音寓意); (4) The decorative elements of ancestral temples correspond to the forms of their painting art, with the former extending the space of the tomb sacrificial system and the latter representing artistic inheritance. The development of ancestral temple architecture has formed dual developmental contexts centered on ritual culture and supplemented by academic dissemination, fluctuating with the status of Confucianism. The relational sociology model shows that the political aspects of ancestral temples form a sub-lineage of their ritual culture, closely linked to reforms in the educational system and transformations in building functions, further influencing architectural form and decorative art.
Chromogenic mechanisms of overglaze yellow pigment produced in Jingdezhen imperial kilns during the Ming dynasty
Authors: Hao Meng , Zhang Maolin , Weng Yanjun , Xiong Zhe
Published: October 2024

This study employed energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible-near infrared spectrophotometry to analyse eleven overglaze pigment porcelain specimens. The results show that the colouring element of the overglaze yellow pigment of Jingdezhen imperial kilns in the Ming dynasty is Fe2O3, and most of Fe2O3 can be dissolved in the lead glaze in an ionic state to make the lead glaze yellow. The chromogenic of the overglazed yellow pigment primarily depends on the concentration and coordination field of the colouring ions. The connection between the internal structure and the appearance of the overglaze yellow pigment is discussed.
Pollinator behaviour and prevalence of the anther smut Antherospora vindobonensis in its host, the Hungarian two-leaf squill (Scilla vindobonensis)
Authors: Prokop Pavol , Tučník Kristián , Provazník Zuzana , Čiamporová-Zaťovičová Zuzana , Čiampor Jr Fedor
Published: September 2024

Anther smuts are fungal diseases that have detrimental effects on the biology of their host plants. We investigated the transmission of Anther smut Antherospora vindobonensis to its host, Scilla vindobonensis under natural and laboratory conditions. Plants flowering early in spring were less vulnerable to disease (∼ 20–30% of plants which appeared early in the season were diseased) than flowers that bloom at the end of the season (∼ 60% of plants which appeared late in the season were diseased) which contradicts the patterns observed for other anther smuts species. Diseased plants showed thicker stems, lower nectar production and smaller flower radius than healthy plants. The disease prevalence in S. vindobonensis was not influenced by plant density. The production of spores in diseased flowers was 125 times higher than the production of pollen in healthy flowers. The number of pollen grains attached to pollinator bodies from healthy plants under controlled conditions was similar to the number of spores attached from diseased plants. Experienced honeybees in the field showed almost identical preferences for healthy plants (65%) over diseased ones, as did naïve bumblebees under controlled laboratory conditions (69%). eDNA metabarcoding revealed that healthy flowers attracted a significantly higher number of arthropod species (M = 6.23, SE = 1.48) than diseased flowers (M = 2.32, SE = 0.31). Strong seasonal differences in the risk of infection suggest that S. vindobonensis solves the trade-off between low pollinator availability and low risk of infection at the beginning of the season and high risk of infection and high pollinator availability at the end of season. By reproducing early in the season, plants can reduce the risk of disease.
A study of project-based learning to intermediate EFL learners in reading class: enhancing self-regulated learning of post-secondary students in Macao
Authors: Cao Leyi
Published: October 2024

This study explored two new pedagogical conceptions—project-based learning (PBL) and self-regulated learning (SRL), to enhance effective English teaching and learning in Macao, and to prepare EFL learners for life-long learning. PBL makes English instruction engaging and SRL empowers learners to take ownership of their learning process. The combination of these two methodologies can facilitate students to develop into independent and efficient English learners. The study, guided by Zimmerman’s cyclical phase model of SRL and English and Kitsantas’ PBL/SRL model, was action research which aimed to investigate whether PBL could positively influence the development of intermediate EFL learners’ SRL ability at the post-secondary level in Macao. Research instruments included questionnaires, interviews, students’ reflective notes and teacher’s field notes. Both qualitative and quantitative findings indicated improvement in the students’ SRL ability, reflected in three aspects—motivation, metacognition, and behaviors. The students’ motivational beliefs were significantly strengthened, and more self-regulated behaviors were generated. Though the use of metacognitive strategies did not showcase as significant enhancement as the former elements through the study, the experimental group made progress in using some specific strategies, such as evaluating learning outcomes and making study plans. The summary of the study is that PBL was beneficial to the development of SRL. This research endeavor not only contributes to the existing body of knowledge but also serves as a catalyst for educators to advocate policy reforms, fostering the design of learner-centered, flexible, and coherent post-secondary EFL curricula.
Clinical outcomes of NBF gel application in managing mucositis associated with xerostomia
Authors: Szabó György , Németh Zsolt , Kivovics Márton
Published: September 2024

Background

Xerostomia, or dry mouth, can be a temporary or persistent symptom resulting from various factors, such as medication use, therapeutic radiation, chemotherapy, autoimmune conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome), and hormonal imbalances. Xerostomia often leads to associated mucositis, which significantly impacts patients’ quality of life. The nano-bio-fusion (NBF) gingival gel, a gel-type functional toothpaste containing vitamins C, E, propolis, and herbal extracts in a nano-emulsion state, has shown potential in accelerating the healing of oral mucosal lesions.

Methods

A total of 127 patients (102 females, 25 males) with persistent xerostomia were treated from 2018 to 2023. Of these, 32 patients were treated exclusively with NBF Gel, while 95 patients received NBF Gel in combination with other medications, such as pilocarpine. The underlying causes of xerostomia included irradiation and chemotherapy (12 patients), medication (40 patients), hormonal imbalance (28 patients), and Sjögren’s syndrome (47 patients). NBF Gel was applied 2–3 times daily to the tongue and oral mucosa. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated through physical examinations and a patient-reported scale ranging from 1 (no improvement) to 10 (complete improvement), focusing on the healing of mucosal lesions rather than saliva production.

Results

Both treatment groups showed significant improvements in the healing of xerostomia-associated mucositis, particularly in severe cases with visible lesions. Patients treated with NBF Gel reported improved symptoms related to mucosal health, while those who received combination therapy also experienced reduced side effects of pilocarpine due to dose reduction. The most substantial improvements were observed in patients with drug-induced and hormonally-caused xerostomia-related mucositis. No adverse side effects from NBF Gel were reported during the study.

Conclusion

NBF gingival gel proved to be beneficial in accelerating the healing of mucositis associated with xerostomia, regardless of the underlying cause, including medication use, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal imbalances, and Sjögren’s syndrome. It presents a promising adjunctive treatment to improve mucosal health and quality of life for patients suffering from xerostomia-associated mucositis.
Simulation-based evaluation of road transportation logistics in a dry port with topographic challenges
Authors: Dumetz Ludwig , Audy Jean-François , Rönnqvist Mikael , Azouzi Riadh
Published: September 2024

The extension of existing container terminals or the creation of new ones introduces new logistical challenges, including topographic issues and increased distances between the quays and storage yards located several kilometers away from the quay (dry port). These challenges are complex to evaluate analytically and directly impact the acceleration, deceleration, and average speed of a truck which in turn affect the productivity and synchronization of the overall terminal logistics. This paper proposes a transportation simulation model that incorporates detailed descriptions of the topographical and geometrical restrictions. Our simulation model evaluates various scenarios for container transportation logistics, including varying road design terminals and truck fleet size to enhance productivity. A case study from a potential container terminal on Canada’s St. Lawrence River is used to demonstrate the simulation model. Several scenarios with different designs are tested and the simulation provides numerical results for supporting decision makers.
Genetic polymorphisms associated with preeclampsia risk in Nigerian women
Authors: Olaniyan Mathew F. , Akpoyovwere Obataze J. , Kanikwu Nwamaka P. , Olaniyan Tolulope B. , Adeniran Medinat T. , Muhibi Musa A. , Odegbemi Odekunle B.
Published: September 2024

Background

Preeclampsia, a complex hypertensive disorder unique to pregnancy, significantly impacts maternal and fetal health worldwide, with a prevalence of 2–8%. This condition results from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors.

Aim and objectives

This study aims to investigate the genetic predispositions to preeclampsia, focusing on specific gene polymorphisms among pregnant women at Central Hospital Auchi, Nigeria.

Materials and methods

We examined the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) genes in 200 pregnant women, equally divided between preeclamptic patients and normotensive controls.

Results

The eNOS G894T polymorphism was significantly associated with preeclampsia, with the T allele nearly doubling the risk. The VEGF C936T polymorphism's T allele also indicated a higher risk. The D allele in the ACE gene's insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism significantly increased the risk, as did the A allele in the TNF-α G308A polymorphism.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of genetic factors in preeclampsia and suggest that genetic screening could improve risk stratification and early detection. Future research should integrate genetic, epigenetic, and environmental data to understand preeclampsia's multifaceted nature and develop targeted therapies. This study underscores the potential of personalized medicine in managing and reducing the risks associated with preeclampsia.
Oral manifestations in children with congenital Zika virus syndrome: a systematic review
Authors: Gallo Maria Júlia Delsin , Molena Kelly Fernanda , de Almeida dos Santos Thalia Carvalho , de Carvalho Fabrício Kitazono , Paula e Silva Francisco Wanderley Garcia , Feres Murilo Fernando Neuppmann , de Queiroz Alexandra Mussolino
Published: September 2024

Background

Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) comprises congenital anomalies that occur in individuals, embryos or fetuses exposed to Zika virus infection during pregnancy and can result in systemic manifestations as well as alterations in the oral cavity of these children. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review of the most frequent oral and craniofacial manifestations in children aged 0 to 6 years with CZS compared to neurotypical children without CZS.

Main body of the abstract

In this review, a search was conducted in the PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science databases and grey literature, as well as a manual search of the reference lists of the included articles, without restriction on year or language. Inclusion criteria were studies reporting oral alterations in children up to six years old or newborns with CZS, with or without a control group. Methodological quality of the studies was assessed by the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Twenty-seven articles were retrieved, 19 quantitative non-randomized and 09 quantitative descriptive studies. Three studies presented a high risk of bias. The main reported manifestations were delayed eruption (51,8%), dental enamel defects (25,9%), deep palate (29,6%), number alterations (14,8%), bruxism (29,6%), and malocclusion (25,9%).

Short conclusion

CZS can lead to several manifestations of dental interest and may interfere with the individual's oral health. The pediatric dentistry thus requiring the dentist to be attentive to these changes to offer the best and comprehensive treatment to this patient.
Application of artificial neural network for peak load forecasting in 150 kV Semarang power system
Authors: Fakhryza Khamdan Annas , Budisusila Eka Nuryanto , Nugroho Agus Adhi
Published: September 2024

Accurate load forecasting is essential for reliable and efficient operation of power systems. Traditional forecasting methods often struggle with capturing complex nonlinear patterns in load data. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have emerged as a promising alternative due to their ability to learn complex relationships from historical data (Syed et al. in IEEEA 9:54992–55008, 2021. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2021.3071654). This study investigates the potential of ANNs for short-term peak load forecasting in a 150 kV power system in Semarang, Indonesia. The study examines the impact of different input variables, including historical peak load, minimum load, population, and energy production, on forecasting accuracy. Several ANN architectures are trained and evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and mean squared error (MSE) metrics as reported by Demuth and De Jesús (neural network design). The results indicate that ANNs can achieve high accuracy in predicting peak load, with MAPE values below 10%. The study also demonstrates the importance of carefully selecting input variables and training parameters for optimal model performance. The findings highlight the potential of ANNs for improving load forecasting accuracy in power systems, contributing to enhanced grid reliability and operational efficiency. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the application of ANNs in power system load forecasting. They demonstrate the potential of ANNs to achieve high accuracy and provide valuable insights into the factors influencing model performance. The findings are relevant for power system operators, researchers, and policymakers working to improve grid reliability and efficiency as reported by Prabha Kundur and Malik (Power System Stability and Control, McGraw-Hill Education, New York, 2022. https://www.accessengineeringlibrary.com/content/book/9781260473544).
Le tout dernier Baudelaire
Authors: Thériault Patrick
Published: October 2024

Par la raideur intransigeante de sa posture tout autant que par la violence hyperbolique de son discours, le « tout dernier Baudelaire » de Belgique rappelle le prophète de malheurs, en sa version ancienne, vétérotestamentaire ; mais il l’annonce aussi, en sa version moderne : comme en témoignent les notes composant le dossier préparatoire de La Belgique déshabillée, il préfigure à certains égards un profil d’écrivain-journaliste qui jouera un rôle de premier plan dans l’espace intellectuel de la Troisième République et en lequel on peut reconnaître l’avatar du prophète de malheur le plus emblématique du dix-neuvième siècle, à savoir le pamphlétaire. C’est ce que nous proposons ici de démontrer, en considérant un fragment à résonance apocalyptique de La Belgique déshabillée en regard de l’introduction de La Fin d’un monde d’Édouard Drumont.
Exercise, Sports Participation, and Quality of Life in Young Patients with Heritable Thoracic Aortic Disease
Authors: MILLETTE THEODORE J. , RAMCHARITAR RANDY K. , MONFREDI OLIVER J. , THOMAS MATTHEW J. , CONAWAY MARK R. , DEAN PETER N.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Patients with heritable thoracic aortic disease (HTAD) are often restricted from sports and certain types of exercise. This study was designed to investigate the effect of lifetime exercise exposure and competitive sports participation on quality of life (QOL) in patients 15–35 yr old with syndromic (Marfan syndrome, Loeys–Dietz syndrome, and vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome) and nonsyndromic HTAD (nsHTAD).

Methods

This cross-sectional study used questionnaires to assess lifetime exercise exposure and utilized the PedsQL QOL Inventory. We developed an exercise exposure score (EES) to quantify lifetime exercise exposure. Questionnaires were completed via telephone with complimentary medical record review.

Results

Forty patients were enrolled. Mean age was 26 yr. The diagnosis was Marfan syndrome in 83%. Despite 88% of patients being restricted by their provider, 65% reported competitive sports participation and 93% reported recreational exercise. Participants with an EES greater than the median had significantly better total QOL scores compared with those below the median (78 vs 65, P = 0.03). There were significant positive correlations between current frequency of exercise and psychosocial QOL (slope = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.2–6.6, P = 0.005), physical QOL (slope = 8.1, 95% CI = 4.1–12, P < 0.001), and total QOL score (slope = 6.0, 95% CI = 3.1–9.0, P < 0.001). We found no difference in aortic size or need for surgical intervention between those above and below the median EES, or between those who did and did not participate in competitive sports.

Conclusions

Despite exercise restrictions, young HTAD patients are physically active. Increased lifetime exercise and current physical activity levels were associated with improved QOL in HTAD patients.
The efficacy of azithromycin in the treatment of influenza A infection: A systematic review
Authors: Amer Abd Alsamad Yasser , Abdul Muin Daas Osamah , Talal Allababidi Mohammad , Samer Al-Khatib Alaa , Ala'a Ali Abu-Assi Farah , Ahmad Rateb Barnia Laelas , Halwani Rabih , Eltayeb Wael , H Mossa Abubakr
Published: October 2024

Background The WHO recommendation against the use of macrolides reflects the little low-quality evidence about the effect of azithromycin (AZ) on influenza A infection. Considering recent reports about AZ use despite the WHO’s unfavorable recommendations, we aimed to test the evidence for the usage of AZ in the treatment of influenza A infection. Methods Various online databases were searched till August 2023 and thorough text and evidence evaluation resulted in selecting 7 studies. Results The selected reports included randomized control trials (two), cohort (three), case/control (one) studies, and one case report. Pooling of the results was unattainable due to the variability among studies in patient criteria, study outcomes, and study designs. Based on the limited reports with insufficient evidence, a recommendation for the use of AZ in the treatment regimen was not possible despite the associated reduction in inflammatory cytokines by AZ administration and the absence of significant adverse effects or mortality in hospital-admitted or ICU patients. While these findings support the current guidelines for the treatment of influenza A infection, the evidence behind these guidelines and treatment characteristics were illustrated. Conclusion AZ shows a potential symptom improvement and pro-inflammatory laboratory indices in influenza A patients. Another positive aspect is the absence of complications associated with AZ administration to critically ill patients and acceptable prognosis. However, it is crucial to have more quality research on this matter that focuses on the indication of the use of AZ, and the timing of initiation, dosage, and duration of treatment while monitoring adverse events.
Microwave diagnostics of flare plasma by the direct fitting method based on data from the Siberian Radioheliograph
Authors: Smirnov Dmitriy , Melnikov Viktor
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we analyze images and the frequency spectrum of microwave emission in the maximum of brightness distribution in the January 20, 2022 and July 16, 2023 flares recorded by the Siberian Radioheliograph in the 3–6 GHz and 6–12 GHz ranges. We use the obtained spectrum data for radio diagnostics of magnetic field strength and orientation, plasma density, and parameters of accelerated particles in a radio source. The radio diagnostics is carried out by a method based on minimizing the functional containing the intensities of theoretically calculated and observed frequency spectra of left-polarized and right-polarized emission. Since the form of such a multidimensional functional is quite complex, and it is not possible to minimize it by standard approaches, we employ a genetic minimization method. The radio diagnostics allows us to determine features of the dynamics of the magnetic field intensity and orientation, as well as the density and the energy spectral index of non-thermal electrons in the region of maximum brightness of the radio source. We have found that during the growth phase of the main radiation peaks the magnetic field decreases, whereas during the decay phase, on the contrary, it increases. The rate of these changes varies from a few G/s to 11 G/s for the January 20, 2022 flare and is about 1 G/s for the July 16, 2023 flare.
Fifty years of studying the GCR intensity during inversion of the heliospheric magnetic fields. II. HMF inversion on the inner heliospheric boundary
Authors: Krainev Mikhail , Kalinin Mikhail
Published: September 2024

Phenomena in the outer layer of the solar atmosphere, the heliosphere, including the supersonic solar wind, the heliospheric magnetic field (HMF) carried by it, and cosmic rays propagating in the heliosphere are important for many processes occurring in this layer. For some of these processes such as geomagnetic activity or propagation of cosmic rays, not only the strength, but also the direction of the field is significant. Nonetheless, if in this regard the situation during periods of low sunspot activity is quite clear — the heliosphere is divided into two hemispheres with opposite polarity (toward the Sun/away from the Sun), — during periods of high sunspot activity when the HMF inversion occurs, there is no simple model of this phenomenon.
The paper is a sequel to the study of the HMF inversion phenomenon and associated effects in the intensity of galactic cosmic rays (GCR). Previously, general ideas about the 22-year cyclicity in the characteristics of the Sun, heliosphere, and cosmic rays have been formulated, and the effects observed in the GCR intensity, which we associate with the HMF inversion, have been discussed in detail. This paper deals with a model of HMF inversion, associated only with the evolution of the magnetic field in the layer between the photosphere and the base of the heliosphere due to changes in the distribution of photospheric fields from one solar rotation to the next one, and shows that this is not enough to explain the main effects in the GCR intensity. In this layer, the magnetic field is the main energy factor. A more complete model of HMF inversion, including the transformation of its characteristics due to the interaction of different-speed solar wind streams in the heliosphere itself, where the solar wind is the main energy factor, will be discussed in the next paper.
MHD waves at the pre-front of interplanetary shocks on September 6 and 7, 2017
Authors: Starodubtsev Sergei , Shadrina Lyudmila
Published: September 2024

We analyze strong space weather disturbances during first ten days of September 2017, using the geomagnetic Dst index, parameters of normals to interplanetary shock fronts, direct measurements of interplanetary magnetic field, solar wind, and cosmic ray parameters. By applying spectral analysis methods to interplanetary medium data, we analyze MHD waves at the pre-front of two interplanetary shocks responsible for geomagnetic disturbances on September 6 and 7, 2017. The main results are as follows: the contribution of three branches of MHD waves (Alfvén, fast and slow magnetosonic) to the observed spectrum of the interplanetary magnetic field modulus has been established. We have confirmed the conclusion that the generation of Alfvén waves and fast magnetosonic waves is due to the presence of low-energy proton fluxes (Ep~1 MeV) at the pre-front of interplanetary shocks. We have also discovered a predominant contribution of slow magnetosonic waves to the observed spectrum of the interplanetary magnetic field modulus, but its reason is yet unknown. It is noted that different orientations of the normals to the interplanetary shock fronts and to the direction of the interplanetary magnetic field average vector on spacecraft located fairly close to each other may indicate waviness of the shock front structure.
Investigating azimuthal propagation of Pc5 geomagnetic pulsations and their equivalent current vortices from ground-based and satellite data
Authors: Moiseev Aleksey , Popov Vasiliy , Starodubtsev Sergei
Published: September 2024

Using phase delays at spaced stations and satellite observations in the magnetosphere during two events, we have studied azimuthal propagation of resonant bursts of geomagnetic pulsations in the Pc5 range. We have also examined propagation of equivalent current vortices during these events. It has been found that the pulsations, observed in the magnetosphere and ionosphere, and the equivalent current vortices in the ionosphere propagate in the azimuthal direction from the dayside to the nightside. Propagation velocities according to ground-based observations are 5–25 km/s; according to satellite observations, 114–236 km/s. Propagation velocities according to satellite observations do not exceed the Alfvén velocity in the magnetosphere, which is 620–1006 km/s. According to data from various instruments, there are signatures of fast magnetosonic and Alfvén waves at a time in one of the events on the satellite. This clearly reflects the transformation of these waves. The geomagnetic latitude of registration of vortex centers coincides with the latitude of the maximum amplitude of geomagnetic pulsations (field line resonances) and decreases by ~15° toward the early hours of MLT. The observed dynamics of Pc5 pulsations and vortices is assumed to reflect MHD wave propagation in the magnetosphere.
Comparison of modeling of the polar cap absorption effect with observations at the AARI ground-based network
Authors: Dmitriev Alexei , Dolgacheva Svetlana , Troshichev Oleg , Pulinets Maria
Published: September 2024

An elliptical model of cutoff for solar cosmic rays (SCR) at high latitudes has been calculated for SCR events and geomagnetic storms that occurred in February, March, and September 2014, June 2015, and September 2017 in order to predict the polar cap absorption (PCA) effect. The prediction is compared with observations of the PCA effect at the AARI network of six ionosondes, located in the north of Russia in a wide range of longitudes from 30 to 170 and magnetic latitudes from 56 to 64. We examine the dependence of the cutoff latitude on the magnetic storm strength, as well as the effect of additional ionization of the dayside and nightside ionosphere by SCR protons and electrons. The model demonstrates a satisfactory statistical accuracy up to 0.83 for the PCA prediction. We discuss prospects for further improvement of the elliptical model, such as consideration of the impact of SCRs of higher energies and inclusion of the PC index of energy flux into the polar cap.