bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A vibration suppression approach based on enhanced phase locked loop harmonic tracking
Authors: Bianchi Giovanni , Zilletti Michele , Cinquemani Simone , Cazzulani Gabriele , Bottasso Luigi , Braghin Francesco
Published: July 2023

This article presents a novel algorithm for vibration suppression with inertial actuators. This algorithm is designed to cancel out harmonic disturbances and finds application in rotating machines like helicopters and, more in general, in structures connected to rotors, which generate a single-harmonic disturbance with a frequency far from any natural frequency of the structure. The existing control algorithms for inertial actuators are mainly designed to cancel out vibrations arising from slightly damped structural modes, so they are not suitable for this specific application, whereas the proposed control algorithm is based on the Enhanced Phase Locked Loop (EPLL), a non-linear adaptive bandpass filter originally designed to stabilize electrical systems. In this work, the use of the EPLL is extended to the vibration control of a mechanical system as it is used to track frequency and amplitude variations of the vibration acceleration and calculate the required control force to suppress it. In this article, the algorithm is described, and the parameters of the EPLL are tuned, analyzing their influence on the actuators’ performances. Numerical simulations are performed to discuss its stability, analyze its performance, and compare this novel algorithm to other existing control strategies. Finally, the proposed control algorithm is applied to a helicopter tailplane using two identical inertial actuators. The experiments have shown that the EPLL-based control can effectively cancel out single-harmonic vibrations far from the resonance and that it is robust to amplitude and frequency variations.
Anticonsumerist marketers: Cultural intermediaries in an era of consumer activism
Authors: Rottinghaus Adam Richard
Published: July 2023

Through the concept of ‘cultural intermediaries’, this article identifies contradictions between marketing workers’ personal and professional identities as a rich site for understanding the ethics and politics of marketing work in an era of consumer activism. It offers a case study of a small branding agency president’s attempt to resolve their personal anticonsumerist, environmental politics with their work as a marketer promoting the very forms of over/consumption that they personally oppose. The resolution comes in the form of certifying their agency as a B Corp, which legally binds them to act for people and planet as much as profit when making managerial decisions. The following account contributes to the literature on cultural intermediaries in two ways. First, it describes how resolving conflicts between different sources of identification for cultural intermediaries can shape the process and patterns of generating cultural and economic value. Second, the case suggests that promotional agencies can foster trends in a business-to-business context, rather than among retail consumers, which shift normative organizational and market practices.
Zipper arguments and duties regarding future generations
Authors: Meijers Tim
Published: July 2023

Most of us believe that it would be unjust to act with indifference about the plight of future generations. Zipper arguments in intergenerational justice aim to show that we have duties of justice regarding future generations, regardless of whether we have duties of justice to future generations. By doing so, such arguments circumvent the foundational challenges that come with theorising duties to remote future generations, which result from the non-existence, non-identity and non-contemporaneity of future generations. I argue that zipper arguments face several significant challenges. The ought-implies-can challenge points out that because prior generations determine what later generations can transfer, they determine how much they ought to transfer. In addition, both intentional and non-intentional non-compliance can break the chain of duties towards future generations on which zipper arguments rely. Some versions are surprisingly resilient especially in real-world circumstances. This paper does not show that zipper arguments inevitably fail, but all ways forward come at significant theoretical costs. Unless the challenges posed here are met (or shown as irrelevant), theorists of justice cannot side-track the foundational challenges that come with doing intergenerational justice.
MicroRNA 205-5p and COVID-19 adverse outcomes: Potential molecular biomarker and regulator of the immune response
Authors: Vaz Camila de Oliveira , Hounkpe Bidossessi Wilfried , Oliveira José Diogo , Mazetto Bruna , Cardoso Jacintho Bruna , Aparecida Locachevic Gisele , Henrique De Oliveira Soares Kaio , Carlos Silva Mariolano João , Castilho de Mesquita Giulia , Colombera Peres Karina , Vieira- Damiani Gislaine , Vieira Geraldo Murilo , Orsi Fernanda Andrade
Published: July 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an acute respiratory infection caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The uncontrolled systemic inflammatory response, resulting from the release of large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines, is the main mechanism behind severe acute respiratory syndrome and multiple organ failure, the two main causes of death in COVID-19. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as gene expression regulation by microRNAs (miRs), may be at the basis of the immunological changes associated with COVID-19. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to evaluate whether the expression of miRNAs upon hospital admission could predict the risk of fatal COVID-19. To evaluate the level of circulating miRNAs, we used serum samples of COVID-19 patients collected upon hospital admission. Screening of differentially expressed miRNAs in fatal COVID-19 was performed by miRNA-Seq and the validation of miRNAs by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The Mann–Whitney test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to validate the miRNAs, whose potential signaling pathways and biological processes were identified through an in silico approach. A cohort of 100 COVID-19 patients was included in this study. By comparing the circulating levels of miRs between survivors and patients who died due to complications of the infection, we found that the expression of miR-205-5p was increased in those who died during hospitalization, and the expression of both miR-205-5p (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.5–0.7, P = 0.03) and miR-206 (AUC = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.5–0.7, P = 0.03) was increased in those who lately evolved to severe forms of the disease (AUC = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.6–0.8, P = 0.002).“In silico” analysis revealed that miR-205-5p has the potential to enhance the activation of NLPR3 inflammasome and to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways. Impaired innate immune response against SARS-CoV-2 may be explained by epigenetic mechanisms, which could form early biomarkers of adverse outcomes.
Letters of Recommendation: Make Your Nominee Stand Out
Authors: Falusi Yonkaitis Catherine , Dewey Bergren Martha
Published: July 2023

Every nurse will be asked to write a letter of recommendation during their career. It is a privilege to be invited to write a letter of recommendation. A well-written letter of recommendation can make or break a stellar individual’s chances of receiving the recognition they deserve or getting the job they want. Some find the prospect of writing a letter of recommendation intimidating, however, writing one does not have to be daunting. In this article, we will share a formula you can use to write a succinct, data-driven, and effective letter of support.
The effects of Instagram disclosure on consumer reactions to sponsored posts: The moderating impact of social media influencers’ perceived popularity
Authors: Passebois Ducros Juliette , Euzéby Florence , Machat Sarah
Published: July 2023

At the request of brands, influencers promote products in their social media feed. They publish both authentic and sponsored content and, to distinguish one from the other, they are required to clearly disclose when their posts are sponsored. This research examines the impact of advertising disclosure on consumer reactions. We first propose an integrative model of the disclosing effect including advertising recognition and source’s credibility. We also examine the impact of influencer’s popularity in the disclosure process. An experiment conducted on Instagram ( n = 400) shows that disclosure negatively affects consumers’ intentions via the double mediation of advertising recognition and influencer’s credibility. It also reveals that, for very popular influencers, the negative effect of disclosure on consumer reactions through the double mediation is attenuated.
Role of Demographics in Acculturation Stress Among Inter-caste Married Individuals
Authors: Nallathambi Selvaraj , Velayudhan Adithya
Published: July 2023

Acculturative stress is linked to an increase in mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and hopelessness. This study investigates the role of demographics in acculturation stress in inter-caste married people. In India, most of the communities did not openly state that an individual from other castes was not to be married, but that it deliberately encouraged marriages from the same castes to support society. However, due to the urbanization, globalization amongst Indian youth ready to marry other caste. This study investigates the role of demographics in acculturation stress amongst inter-caste married individuals. Seventy-four inter-caste married individuals were selected through purposive sampling, and the data were collected with the help of the Social, Attitudinal, Familial, and Environmental (SAFE) Acculturation stress scale developed by Mena, Padilla, and Maldonado (1987). The results revealed that there is significant difference in acculturation stress amongst inter-caste married individuals based on duration of the marriage and income of the family. There is no significant difference in acculturation stress based on gender, area of living, and types of family. It concluded that acculturation stress has an important role in the inter-caste marriage. The lack of support from family, friends, and society contributes to increased acculturation stress of inter-caste married individuals.
Emergence of Dalit-Bahujan Students’ Movement: A Study of University Campuses in Western Odisha
Authors: Mahananda Aruna
Published: July 2023

Historically, it has been observed that student movements have been essential in bringing about social change in the world. In the Indian context, the majority of these student organizations, whether they follow a leftist or a rightist ideology, have always tried to hide their Brahminical foundations and have ignored the problems of marginalized students on university campuses. When it comes to Odisha, one can witness the Brahmin and Karana castes’ historical monopoly over political power in the state, and as a result, neglecting caste issues in political parties and other academic institutions in many ways. In this project, the researcher has followed the qualitative approach and used the phenomenological technique to understand the lived experiences of the Dalit-Bahujan students located on three university campuses in western Odisha. The present study has demonstrated clearly how the hardships, struggles and measures taken by the Dalit-Bahujan student movements on the university campuses. Finally, it clearly outlined the different elements that motivated the Dalit-Bahujan students to join the movement and helped them to recognize their own responsibility for passing on this legacy to future generations.
Standardization of Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patient Discharge to Reduce Readmission Rates
Authors: West Meghan , Varnes Ashley , Hudspeth Michelle
Published: July 2023

Background: The time period after a pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant (P-HSCT) is tenuous as the patient is severely immunocompromised and awaiting immune reconstitution. Managing activities of daily living and medication administration after discharge from the hospital requires 24-hour care placing a heavy burden on caregivers and patients. Patients who do not adhere to the posttransplant regimen are at a higher risk for hospital readmission within the first 30 days of initial discharge with serious potential for life-threatening complications. The objective of this project was to improve 30-day readmission rates and caregiver readiness for discharge through the implementation of an evidence-based discharge protocol for P-HSCT patients and caregivers. Methods: This quality improvement project included development and implementation of comprehensive Pediatric Blood & Marrow Transplant Guidelines and discharge protocol for patients who received an inpatient autologous or allogeneic HSCT and were scheduled for discharge from a 16-bed inpatient pediatric hematology–oncology unit of a children's hospital in the southeastern United States. Readmission rates were captured through the hospital-monitored system. Results: The comprehensive discharge protocol was implemented for six patients, and 30-day readmission rates decreased from 27.29% to 3.57% following the intervention. Discussion: Results suggest the combination of an evidence-based discharge protocol with a focus on caregiver readiness for discharge and a 24-hour Rooming-In period can influence caregiver confidence and reduce 30-day readmission rates after initial discharge from a P-HSCT.
Understanding the Relationship Between Decreases in Social Security Benefits and Intergenerational Inequalities in Mental Health
Authors: Simpson Julija , Bambra Clare , Brown Heather
Published: July 2023

It is well-established that mental health follows similar patterns across generations. However, little is known how structural factors, such as those related to social security reforms, may impact this relationship. Our aim was to quantify the strength of association in mental health between parents and their adolescent children, and to explore how much of this correlation is explained by decreases in benefits. We used data from U.K. Household Longitudinal Study (2009–2019) from which we matched youth data to their parents, and split the sample into single- and dual-parent households. To estimate the intergenerational correlations, we estimated a series of unit- and rank-based regression models of standardized and time-averaged mental health measures for adolescents and their parents. Our findings suggest that there are statistically significant intergenerational associations in mental health between parents and children for both single- and dual-parent households, with the relationship being stronger for single-mother households. Benefit losses explain a small proportion of this association, for both single-mother and dual-parent households. Nevertheless, they are negatively associated with the mental health of adolescents in dual-parent households—independently of both adolescent and parental characteristics. Such negative effects should be considered when designing and evaluating future social security benefit policies.
Somatic mutational landscape of hereditary hematopoietic malignancies caused by germline variants in RUNX1, GATA2, and DDX41
Authors: Homan Claire C. , Drazer Michael W. , Yu Kai , Lawrence David M. , Feng Jinghua , Arriola-Martinez Luis , Pozsgai Matthew J. , McNeely Kelsey E. , Ha Thuong , Venugopal Parvathy , Arts Peer , King-Smith Sarah L. , Cheah Jesse , Armstrong Mark , Wang Paul , Bödör Csaba , Cantor Alan B. , Cazzola Mario , Degelman Erin , DiNardo Courtney D. , Duployez Nicolas , Favier Remi , Fröhling Stefan , Rio-Machin Ana , Klco Jeffery M. , Krämer Alwin , Kurokawa Mineo , Lee Joanne , Malcovati Luca , Morgan Neil V. , Natsoulis Georges , Owen Carolyn , Patel Keyur P. , Preudhomme Claude , Raslova Hana , Rienhoff Hugh , Ripperger Tim , Schulte Rachael , Tawana Kiran , Velloso Elvira , Yan Benedict , Kim Erika , Sood Raman , Hsu Amy P. , Holland Steven M. , Phillips Kerry , Poplawski Nicola K. , Babic Milena , Wei Andrew H. , Forsyth Cecily , Mar Fan Helen , Lewis Ian D. , Cooney Julian , Susman Rachel , Fox Lucy C. , Blombery Piers , Singhal Deepak , Hiwase Devendra , Phipson Belinda , Schreiber Andreas W. , Hahn Christopher N. , Scott Hamish S. , Liu Paul , Godley Lucy A. , Brown Anna L.
Published: July 2023

Individuals with germ line variants associated with hereditary hematopoietic malignancies (HHMs) have a highly variable risk for leukemogenesis. Gaps in our understanding of premalignant states in HHMs have hampered efforts to design effective clinical surveillance programs, provide personalized preemptive treatments, and inform appropriate counseling for patients. We used the largest known comparative international cohort of germline RUNX1, GATA2, or DDX41 variant carriers without and with hematopoietic malignancies (HMs) to identify patterns of genetic drivers that are unique to each HHM syndrome before and after leukemogenesis. These patterns included striking heterogeneity in rates of early-onset clonal hematopoiesis (CH), with a high prevalence of CH in RUNX1 and GATA2 variant carriers who did not have malignancies (carriers-without HM). We observed a paucity of CH in DDX41 carriers-without HM. In RUNX1 carriers-without HM with CH, we detected variants in TET2, PHF6, and, most frequently, BCOR. These genes were recurrently mutated in RUNX1-driven malignancies, suggesting CH is a direct precursor to malignancy in RUNX1-driven HHMs. Leukemogenesis in RUNX1 and DDX41 carriers was often driven by second hits in RUNX1 and DDX41, respectively. This study may inform the development of HHM-specific clinical trials and gene-specific approaches to clinical monitoring. For example, trials investigating the potential benefits of monitoring DDX41 carriers-without HM for low-frequency second hits in DDX41 may now be beneficial. Similarly, trials monitoring carriers-without HM with RUNX1 germ line variants for the acquisition of somatic variants in BCOR, PHF6, and TET2 and second hits in RUNX1 are warranted.
Causal association between JAK2 and erectile dysfunction: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xi Yu-Jia , Wen Rui , Zhang Ran , Dong Qi-Rui , Zhang He-yi , Su Qin-yi , Zhang Sheng-Xiao
Published: July 2023

Background

As one of the most critical proteins in the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) is involved in many biological processes and diseases. Several observational studies have reported the role of JAK2 in erectile dysfunction. However, the causal relationship between JAK2 and erectile dysfunction remains unclear. Here we investigated the causal relationship between JAK2 and erectile dysfunction.

Results

Genetically predicted JAK2 was causally associated with erectile dysfunction in inverse variance weighting (OR = 1.109, 95% CI = 1.029–1.196, p = 0.007) and weighted median method (OR = 1.117, 95% CI = 1.003-1.245, p = 0.044). No heterogeneity was observed in Cochran Q-test (p = 0.855) and MR-PRESSO (p = 0.866). Pleiotropy was not observed in our study (p = 0.617).

Conclusions

These findings highlighted JAK2 as a risk factor for erectile dysfunction and proved the causal relationship between JAK2 and erectile dysfunction, suggesting that targeting JAK2 signaling might be a novel and promising therapeutic candidate in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
The role of walnut bZIP genes in explant browning
Authors: Wang Hui , Peng Jiali , Li Yaoling , Xu Lishan , Dai Wenqiang , Zhao Shugang
Published: July 2023

Background

Basic leucine zipper (bZIP) proteins are important transcription factors in plants. To study the role of bZIP transcription factors in walnut explant browning, this study used bioinformatics software to analyze walnut bZIP gene family members, along with their transcript levels in different walnut tissues, to evaluate the transcriptional expression of this gene family during the primary culture of walnut explants and to reveal the mechanism of action of walnut bZIP genes in walnut explant browning.

Results

The results identified 65 JrbZIP genes in the walnut genome, which were divided into 8 subfamilies and distributed on 16 chromosomes. The results of transcriptome data analysis showed that there were significant differences in the expression of four genes, namely, JrbZIP55, JrbZIP70, JrbZIP72, and JrbZIP88, under both vermiculite and agar culture conditions. There were multiple hormone (salicylic acid, abscisic acid, auxin, and gibberellin) signaling and regulatory elements that are responsive to stress (low temperature, stress, and defense) located in the promoter regions of JrbZIP55, JrbZIP70, JrbZIP72, and JrbZIP88. The walnut JrbZIP55 protein and Arabidopsis bZIP42 protein are highly homologous, and the proteins interacting with Arabidopsis bZIP42 include the AT2G19940 oxidoreductases, which act on aldehyde or oxygen-containing donors.

Conclusion

It is speculated that JrbZIP55 may participate in the regulation of browning in walnut explants.
Objective quantification of posterior capsule opacification after cataract surgery with swept-source optical coherence tomography
Authors: Zhou Yu , Xiang Jing , Xu Fang , Jiang Ziyuan , Liu Fang
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the application of swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and pentacam scheimpflug tomography in posterior capsule opacification (PCO) severity assessment.

Methods

The posterior capsule image region segmentation and adaptive threshold algorithm are used to process the SS-OCT scanned image to obtain the posterior capsule thickness (PCT). Scheimpflug tomography reconstructed and analysized by image J software can obtain the average gray value and evaluate the effectiveness with the two methods.

Result

One hundred sixty-two IOL eyes of 101 patients were divided into two groups, laser group (65 eyes) with the mean PCT was 8.0 ± 2.7 pixel unit and the mean gray value of the eyes was 66 ± 33 pixel unit. However, these figures in the control group (97 eyes) were 5.0 ± 0.9 and 11 ± 17. The sensitivity, specificity and area under curve(AUC) of SS-OCT PCT were 85%, 74% and 0.942,the sensitivity, specificity and AUC of Pentacam gray value were 91%, 76% and 0.947, respectively. After using the multivariable model of generalized estimation equation to corrected the dependence of subjects' eyes, it was found that SS-OCT PCT, Pentacam gray value, low vision quality of life questionnaire (LVQ questionnaire) for distance vision, and mobility and lighting dimension were significantly correlated with the PCO score (P = 0.012, P = 0.001, P = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusion

The region segmentation and adaptive threshold algorithm of posterior capsule image will accurately quantify the posterior capsule. Computer aided quantifications of posterior capsule are of great significance in the early surgical decision-making of PCO. The average occurrence time of most PCO was around 34 months, and the severity of PCO worsened with increasing postoperative time.
Effect of ready-to-use therapeutic foods on time to recovery among children with severe acute malnutrition in Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Abebe Arsema , Simachew Yilkal , Delbiso Tefera Darge
Published: July 2023

Background

The therapeutic feeding unit (TFU) provides comprehensive inpatient clinical care for children suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in three stages: stabilization, transition, and rehabilitation. During the transitional and rehabilitation phases, children receive either F-100 or ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF). Although both promote weight gain, RUTF is more energy dense than F-100. There is limited and contrasting evidence regarding their effect on recovery time. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of RUTF on time to recovery among SAM children aged 6–59 months admitted to the TFU in Ethiopia.

Methods

Health Facility-based prospective cohort study was conducted among 476 children treated in three hospitals and four health centers in the Sidama region from September 2021 to January 2022. A structured questionnaire adopted from the Ethiopian national protocol for the management of SAM was used for data collection. Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. The Kaplan-Meir curve and log-rank test were used to compare time to recovery between children who received RUTF and F-100. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis was conducted to assess the association between time to recovery and the type of therapeutic food, controlling for the confounding variables.

Results

The median recovery time was significantly shorter in children receiving RUTF (7 days; 95% CI: 6.62–7.38) compared to F-100 (10 days; 95% CI: 8.94–11.06). Children below 24 months (AHR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.42–0.69), dehydrated (AHR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.07–1.75), edematous malnutrition (AHR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.03–1.61), and anemic (AHR = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.90–3.48) during admission were associated with time to recovery.

Conclusions

Children who received RUTF recovered faster than children who received F-100. Administering RUTF to children below 24 months, who present with anemia and dehydration can improve their recovery rate and shorten their stay in the health facility.
Associations between postmigration living situation and symptoms of common mental disorders in adult refugees in Europe: updating systematic review from 2015 onwards
Authors: Nowak Anna Christina , Nutsch Niklas , Brake Tessa-Maria , Gehrlein Lea-Marie , Razum Oliver
Published: July 2023

Background

Refugees and asylum seekers have a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The postmigration context inheres different risk and protective factors for mental health of refugees and asylum seekers in host countries. We conducted a systematic review to update knowledge on the association between characteristics of the postmigration living situation (PMLS) and mental health outcomes in Europe since 2015.

Methods

We searched in five databases according to the PRISMA statement. From a total of 5,579 relevant studies published in 2015–22, 3,839 were included for title and abstract screening, and 70 full texts screened for eligibility. Out of these, 19 studies on refugees and asylum seekers conducted in European countries after 2014 were included in this systematic review. The quality of studies was assessed by using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) – version 2018. We performed a narrative synthesis using the four layers of the social determinants of health framework.

Results

A wide range of risk and protective factors for mental health in the PMLS were identified as exposure measures, which included individual factors (e.g., language skills), social and community networks (e.g., family concerns, loneliness and social support, discrimination), living and working conditions (e.g., legal status, duration of residence, unemployment and financial hardship, housing) as well as general socio-economic, cultural and environmental factors (e.g., social status, acculturation). We found postmigration stressors are positively associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, albeit not consistently so. Especially, the general socio-economic, cultural and environmental factors showed weak associations with mental health.

Conclusions

Heterogenous study characteristics likely explain the inconsistent associations between characteristics of the PMLS and mental health outcomes. However, broken down in its component layers, most risk and protective factors of the PMLS were significantly associated with symptoms of mental disorders showing the same direction of association across the included studies, while the association between some stressors or resources of the PMLS and mental health turns out to be less homogeneous than expected. Characteristics of the PMLS contribute to the high prevalence of mental diseases of refugees and asylum seekers. Disadvantages in general socio-economic conditions, living and working conditions, in access to social and community networks need to be redressed, in addition to better access to health care.
An unacceptably high burden of anaemia and it’s predictors among young women (15–24 years) in low and middle income countries; set back to SDG progress
Authors: Merid Mehari Woldemariam , Chilot Dagmawi , Alem Adugnaw Zeleke , Aragaw Fantu Mamo , Asratie Melaku Hunie , Belay Daniel Gashaneh , Kibret Anteneh Ayelign
Published: July 2023

Background

Anaemia is a major global public health problem, considerably affects young women in resource limited countries. The available researches on anaemia focused on children, pregnant women, or all women of reproductive age. However, women's biology and life experiences vary dramatically across 15 to 49 years, putting young women bear the higher burden of anaemia, mainly in low and middle income countries (LMICs). Therefore, this study assessed the burden of anaemia among young women (15–24 years) in 24 LMICs which conducted Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) between 2016 and 2021.

Method

Data analysis was carried out with STATA version 14. The forest plot was used to explore the pooled prevalence of anaemia. Multilevel binary logistic regression was fitted to accommodate the hierarchical nature of the DHS data. Accordingly, a model with lowest deviance (model III) was the best-fitted model. All variables with ap-value ≤ 0.2 in the bi-variable analysis were fitted in the multi-level multivariable model. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI andp < 0.05 were presented to declare statistical significance.

Result

The pooled prevalence of anaemia among young (15–24 years) women in 24 LMICs was 41.58% (95%CI: 34.51, 48.65). Country wise, Mali (62.95%) and Rwanda (14.13%) constitute the highest and lowest prevalence of anaemia. In this study, young women who lived in the poorest wealth status, had no education, were underweight, perceived distance to the health facility a big problem, larger family size, and women who had ever terminated pregnancy were associated with increased odds of anaemia. Whereas, young women who were overweight and not breast feeding had decreased odds of anaemia.

Conclusion

The unacceptably high burden of anaemia among young women setbacks the SDG target; to end all forms of malnutrition by 2030. Therefore, it is highly recommended to take relevant interventions to reduce the burden of anaemia targeted the young women who are uneducated, have low socio-economic status, limited access to health facilities, and lived in larger family size.
Rare cavitary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of lung: clinical experience and literature review
Authors: Chen Guiqin , Yu Qiane , Ran Haifeng , Li XuHong , Zhang Tijiang
Published: July 2023

Background

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the lung is a rare primary malignancy of the lung, accounting for only 0.9% of primary malignancies of the lung. Those associated with cavities are even rarer, with fewer than five cases reported in the English literature. Concurrently, the imaging findings of tumors are usually non-specific, resulting in insufficient understanding of the disease by clinicians, thus leading to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.

Case presentation

A 42-year-old female presented with a right lower lung mass with cavities. First identified on chest computed tomography (CT) in 2021, the mass persisted for 1 year and subsequently enlarged on chemotherapy and routine follow-up CT. Right lower lobectomy was then performed. Postoperative pathology confirmed primary pulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma. After 10 months of follow-up, the patient was still alive and no recurrence was observed.

Conclusions

This article aims to describe a rare case of cavitary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the lung and review it clinical and imaging characteristics reported in previous cases, which will be helpful for clinicians and imaging physicians in diagnosing this disease.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of risk factors for reoperation after degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis surgery
Authors: Chen Yuzhou , Zhou Yi , Chen Junlong , Luo Yiping , Wang Yongtao , Fan Xiaohong
Published: July 2023

Background

Considering the high reoperation rate in degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS) patients undergoing lumbar surgeries and controversial results on the risk factors for the reoperation, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the reoperation rate and risk factors for the reoperation in DLS patients undergoing lumbar surgeries.

Methods

Literature search was conducted from inception to October 28, 2022 in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Odds ratio (OR) was used as the effect index for the categorical data, and effect size was expressed as 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity test was performed for each outcome effect size, and subgroup analysis was performed based on study design, patients, surgery types, follow-up time, and quality of studies to explore the source of heterogeneity. Results of all outcomes were examined by sensitivity analysis. Publication bias was assessed using Begg test, and adjusted using trim-and-fill analysis.

Results

A total of 39 cohort studies (27 retrospective cohort studies and 12 prospective cohort studies) were finally included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall results showed a 10% (95%CI: 8%-12%) of reoperation rate in DLS patients undergoing lumbar surgeries. In surgery types subgroup, the reoperation rate was 11% (95%CI: 9%-13%) for decompression, 10% (95%CI: 7%-12%) for fusion, and 9% (95%CI: 5%-13%) for decompression and fusion. An increased risk of reoperation was found in patients with obesity (OR = 1.91, 95%CI: 1.04–3.51), diabetes (OR = 2.01, 95%CI: 1.43–2.82), and smoking (OR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.23–1.84).

Conclusions

We found a 10% of reoperation rate in DLS patients after lumbar surgeries. Obesity, diabetes, and smoking were risk factors for the reoperation.
Biomechanical comparison of different framework materials in mandibular overdenture prosthesis supported with implants of different sizes: a finite element analysis
Authors: Güzelce S Elifnur
Published: July 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to evaluate the stresses on the supporting bone, implants, and framework materials under masticatory forces in mandibular overdenture prostheses modeled with different framework materials and different implant types, using the Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

Methods

For the finite element modeling, two identical mandibular jaw models were created; one with two standard (diameter:4.1 mm/12 mm length) and the other with two mini-implants (diameter:2.4 mm/12 mm length) were placed in the canine teeth area. The polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) denture was modeled upon them, supported by Cobalt Chromium alloy (CoCr), Poly-ether ether ketone (PEEK), and Zantex materials with framework. No framework was added as a control model; only PMMA overdenture prosthesis was modeled.

Results

Regardless of the framework materials of the overdenture prostheses, the stress values ​​on mini-implants in all models yielded approximately two times higher results comparing to standard implants. More stress transmission was observed in the supporting bone and implants in the control prostheses and overdenture prostheses supported with respectively PEEK, Zantex, CoCr alloy frameworks, respectively. In the framework materials, more stress occurred on CoCr, Zantex and PEEK in that order.

Conclusion

In the light of this study, the use of mini-implants as an alternative to standard implants is not promising in terms of distribution and transmission of chewing stresses. As a framework material, standard rigid metal alloys were found to be more advantageous than polymer materials in terms of stress distribution.
The dignity of terminally ill children in pediatric palliative care: perspectives of parents and healthcare providers
Authors: Cai Siyu , Guo Qiaohong , Lin Junyi , Deng Chanjuan , Li Huijun , Zhou Xuan
Published: July 2023

Background

The Chochinov Dignity Model was developed based on a cohort of adult patients with advanced cancer, but its role among dying children is not clear. This study aims to develop a model of dignity for children receiving pediatric palliative care based on the Chochinov Dignity Model.

Methods

This is a descriptive qualitative study. Participants included a total of 11 parents and 14 healthcare providers who were recruited from a tertiary children’s hospital in Beijing and the Pediatric Palliative Care Subspecialty Group of the Pediatrics Society of the Chinese Medical Association using purposive sampling. Thematic framework analysis was used to analyze data.

Results

The themes of the empirical Dignity Model were broadly supported in this study, but some themes were interpreted differently in the child population. Compared with the original model, some child-specific themes were identified including acknowledging regret, a sense of security, the company of important loved ones, realizing unfinished wishes, decent and dignified death, resolving family disputes, and fairness.

Conclusions

This is the first study on Dignity Model for terminal children. Knowledge of children’s dignity can promote reflection of healthcare providers and caregivers regarding the values underlying their performance in pediatric palliative care, and develop certain practical interventions to strengthen children and their families’ sense of dignity at end of life.
Getting specific: participation preference in urooncological decision-making
Authors: Büdenbender Björn , Köther Anja K. , Kriegmair Maximilian C. , Grüne Britta , Michel Maurice S. , Alpers Georg W.
Published: July 2023

Background

Shared decision-making is the gold standard for good clinical practice, and thus, psychometric instruments have been established to assess patients’ generic preference for participation (e.g., the Autonomy Preference Index, API). However, patients’ preferences may vary depending on the specific disease and with respect to the specific decision context. With a modified preference index (API-Uro), we assessed patients’ specific participation preference in preference-sensitive decisions pertaining to urological cancer treatments and compared this with their generic participation preference.

Methods

In Study 1, we recruited (N = 469) urological outpatients (43.1% urooncological) at a large university hospital. Participation preference was assessed with generic measures (API and API case vignettes) and with the disease-specific API-Uro (urooncological case vignettes describing medical decisions of variable difficulty). A polychoric exploratory factor analysis was used to establish factorial validity and reduce items.

In Study 2, we collected data from N = 204 bladder cancer patients in a multicenter study to validate the factorial structure with confirmatory factor analysis.

Differences between the participation preference for different decision contexts were analyzed.

Results

Study 1: Scores on the specific urooncological case vignettes (API-Uro) correlated with the generic measure (r = .44) but also provided incremental information. Among the disease-specific vignettes of the API-Uro, there were two factors with good internal consistency (α ≥ .8): treatment versus diagnostic decisions. Patients desired more participation for treatment decisions (77.8%) than for diagnostic decisions (22%), χ2(1) = 245.1, p ≤ .001.

Study 2: Replicated the correlation of the API-Uro with the API (r = .39) and its factorial structure (SRMR = .08; CFI = .974). Bladder cancer patients also desired more participation for treatment decisions (57.4%) than for diagnostic decisions (13.3%), χ²(1) =84, p ≤ .001.

Conclusions

The desire to participate varies between treatment versus diagnostic decisions among urological patients. This underscores the importance of assessing participation preference for specific contexts. Overall, the new API-Uro has good psychometric properties and is well suited to assess patients’ preferences. In routine care, measures of participation preference for specific decision contexts may provide incremental, allowing clinicians to better address their patients’ individual needs.
CircGNB1 facilitates the malignant phenotype of GSCs by regulating miR-515-5p/miR-582-3p-XPR1 axis
Authors: Hu Jinpeng , Zhang Guoqing , Wang Yongfeng , Xu Kai , Chen Lian , Luo Gang , Xu Jinkun , Li Hao , Pei Dongmei , Zhao Xiang , Guo Zhengting , Li Xinqiao , Zong Shengliang , Jiang Yang , Jing Zhitao
Published: July 2023

Glioma is the most common and aggressive primary malignant brain tumor. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have been verified to mediate diverse biological behaviors in various human cancers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore a novel circRNA termed circGNB1 and elucidate relative molecular mechanism in functional phenotypes, which might be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic approach for glioma. CircGNB1 was upregulated in glioma and closely associated with the low poor prognosis. Functional assays demonstrated that circGNB1 overexpression promoted glioma stem cells (GSCs) viability proliferation, invasion, and neurosphere formation. Mechanistically, circGNB1 upregulated the expression of oncogene XPR1 via sponging miR-515-5p and miR-582-3p. The following experiments proved XPR1 could promote the malignant phenotype of GSCs via upregulating IL6 expression and activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Moreover, the RNA binding protein IGF2BP3 could bind to and maintain the stability of circGNB1, thus promoting the effects of circGNB1 on GSCs. Our study reveals that circGNB1 plays a crucial role in promoting tumorigenesis and malignant progression in glioma, which provides a promising cancer biomarker.
Anopheles diversity, biting behaviour and transmission potential in forest and farm environments of Gia Lai province, Vietnam
Authors: Van Dung Nguyen , Thieu Nguyen Quang , Canh Hoang Dinh , Le Duy Bui , Hung Vu Viet , Ngoc Nguyen Thi Hong , Mai Nguyen Vu Tuyet , Van Anh Ngo Thi , Son Le Duy , Oo Win Han , Htike Win , Oo May Chan , Galau Naw Hkawng , Thu Kaung Myat , Zaw Aung Khine , Htwe Ei Phyu , Cutts Julia C. , Kearney Ellen A. , Wang Bangyuan , Agius Paul A. , Fowkes Freya J. I. , O’Flaherty Katherine
Published: July 2023

Background

Despite recent reductions in Vietnam, malaria transmission persists in some areas in forests and farmlands where a high density of Anopheles mosquitoes relative to other environments occurs. To inform effective malaria control measures, it is important to understand vector bionomics and the malaria transmission role of Anopheles spp. in the highland regions of Vietnam. This study was conducted to quantify the abundance, composition and biting behaviour of the Anopheles mosquito population, and the proportion of Plasmodium spp. infected mosquitoes collected from forest and agricultural farm sites in Gia Lai province, Vietnam.

Methods

Forest and agricultural farm sites in Gia Lai province were selected for mosquito collections (total eight sites). Mosquito collection was performed by Human-baited Double Net Trap (HDNT), animal-baited traps (ABT) using cattle, and CDC light traps. Captured mosquitoes were identified morphologically, and salivary glands of Anopheles mosquitoes were examined for sporozoites using microscopy. Plasmodium infection was determined by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and identification of blood meal type was determined by PCR and diffuse serum agglutination assay.

Results

A total of 1815 Anopheles mosquitoes belonging to 19 species were collected by ABT (n = 1169), HDNT (n = 471) and CDC light trap (n = 175). Anopheles abundance and diversity varied by district and environment. Capture by HDNT of Anopheles of vectorial concern was observed between early evening and early morning. Plasmodium vivax infection was determined by PCR in two Anopheles dirus specimens captured by HDNT in forest sites. Blood from a range of hosts could, including human blood, could be detected in species considered primary and secondary vectors An. dirus, and Anopheles aconitus, and Anopheles maculatus, respectively.

Conclusions

A low number of Anopheles spp. considered primary vectors of concern and very low numbers of Plasmodium spp. infected Anopheles mosquitoes were captured at the end of the rainy season in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. However, capture species of vectorial concern by HDNT throughout the early to late evening demonstrates that use of additional personal protective measures could supplement current preventative measures, such as bed nets to prevent exposure to vectors of concern in this region.
Two sides of the same coin? Absolute income and perceived income inadequacy as social determinants of health
Authors: Meisters Rachelle , Putrik Polina , Westra Daan , Bosma Hans , Ruwaard Dirk , Jansen Maria
Published: July 2023

Background

Absolute income is commonly used in studies of health inequalities, however it does not reflect spending patterns, debts, or expectations. These aspects are reflected in measures concerning perceived income inadequacy. While health inequities by absolute income or perceived income inadequacy are well established, few studies have explored the interplay of absolute income and perceived income inadequacy in relation to health.

Methods

Multiple data sources were linked into a nationally representative dataset (n = 445,748) of Dutch adults (18 +). The association between absolute income, perceived income inadequacy and health (self-reported health, chronic disease and psychological distress) was tested using logistic and Poisson regressions, controlling for various potential confounders (demographics, education) and mastery. Interactions were tested to check the association between perceived income inadequacy and health for different absolute income groups.

Results

Perceived income inadequacy was reported at every absolute income group (with 42% of individuals in the lowest income group and 5% of individuals in the highest income group). Both absolute income and perceived income inadequacy were independently associated with health. The adjusted relative risk (RR) for lowest absolute income group is 1.11 (1.08–1.1.14) and 1.28 (1.24–1.32) for chronic disease and self-reported health respectively, and the Odds Ratio (OR) for psychological distress is 1.28 (1.16–1.42). For perceived income inadequacy the RR’s were 1.41 (1.37–1.46) and 1.49 (1.44–1.54) and the OR for psychological distress is 3.14 (2.81–3.51). Mastery appeared to be an important mediator for the relationship between perceived income inadequacy, poor self-rated health and psychological distress.

Conclusions

Absolute income and perceived income inadequacy reflect conceptually different aspects of income and are independently associated with health outcomes. Perceived income inadequacy may be accounted for in health inequality studies, alongside measures of absolute income. In policy-making, targeting perceived income inadequacy might have potential to reduce health inequalities.