bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limb-Shaking Transient Ischemic Attacks in Patients with Carotid Occlusion or Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis
Authors: Haasdijk Eva Joëlle , Sadigh Yasmin , Yildirim Gizem , Dammers Ruben , Volovici Victor
Published: April 2024

Background: Limb-shaking transient ischemic attack (LSTIA) is a rare neurological condition which presents with involuntary jerky movements of the arm or leg, often because of carotid stenosis or occlusion. Due to the rarity of the condition, the epidemiology of LSTIA is poorly understood and the disease is frequently misdiagnosed. There is no standard treatment to date. The purpose of this study was to provide an overview of the epidemiology of LSTIA and its current treatment options. Methods: Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomized controlled trials, and Google Scholar were searched from database inception to December 30, 2023 for articles containing information on the epidemiology and treatment of LSTIA. An individual patient data meta-analysis (IPD-MA) was performed using data extracted from the included articles. Inclusion criteria were description of both the epidemiology and treatment of LSTIA in patients over the age of 18 with carotid stenosis/occlusion, confirmed by radiographic imaging. Exclusion criteria were studies focusing on pediatrics, no epidemiological data, internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis/occlusion not radiologically confirmed, full text unavailable, full text not in English or Dutch, and non-original articles. Results: Of the 8,855 articles screened, 55 articles containing 251 patients were included. Fifty articles harboring 81 patients were included in the IPD-MA, and 7 articles harboring 187 patients were included in the cohort analysis. The results of the IPD-MA showed that LSTIA was caused by unilateral ICA stenosis/occlusion in 29 patients (36%) and most often from bilateral ICA stenosis/occlusion in 52 patients (64%). Limb-shaking was unilateral in 66 patients (83%) and was accompanied by weakness in 27 patients (33%). The intervention with the highest success rate was endovascular intervention (carotid stenting or balloon angioplasty), as all 10 patients remained asymptomatic after treatment. The cohort analysis showed that LSTIA can be caused by both unilateral and bilateral carotid stenosis or occlusion. The prevalence within cohorts of TIA patients of LSTIA varied considerably from 3.5 to 29%. Conclusion: A large international clinical registry is warranted to gain a better understanding of the epidemiology of LSTIA. There is insufficient evidence available to suggest a standard treatment.
HOW CAN THE WORLD OVERLOOK Sapindus rarak BIOPROSPECTION? A NICHE FOR INDONESIA
Authors: Risha Amilia Pratiwi  , Zuhri Musyarofah , Oktaviani Indah
Published: April 2024

Sapindus rarak is a plant native to Indonesia. Its fruit contains abundant saponins and serves as a detergent for washing batik and baby cloth diapers. This study aims to determine the trends in the S. rarak research based on a bibliometrics and scoping review. The bibliometrics analysis was conducted by defining the search keywords, extracting publications, refining the results, compiling metadata, and mapping authors, keywords, and collaboration. There were 32 publications regarding S. rarak based on Scopus, written by 23 authors between 1992 and 2022, with 387 citations, and 201 publications with 1176 citations due to Google Scholar. Indonesia, the Indonesian Research Institute for Animal Production, and Elizabeth Wina was the most influential country, institution, and author, respectively. The research was clustered to chemistry, biology, medicine, and physics approach. Bio-prospection of S. rarak fruit extract for livestock supplementation was a hot topic. All articles reported S. rarak fruit or seed as the promising organ—no one study about the potency of leaves whereas leaves are also an abundant source of saponin. However, the potency of S. rarak leaves is still overlooked. Research on the efficacy of detergents has not been published in a highly reputable international journal, even though it has been utilized traditionally for a long time. Bibliometrics and scoping review can provide insights for further research roadmaps in this field.
RESPONSE OF Amaranthus viridis PLANT FUNCTIONAL TRAITS TO NPK 12:12:17 AND NPK 15:15:15 FERTILIZERS
Authors: Tong Pei Sin , Ning Chew Ker , Yin Yik Hoe , Zhe Tan Jin
Published: April 2024

A paradigm shift from the prevailing reliance on chemical methods to alternative weed-control approaches is necessary to achieve sustainable weed management. However, the understanding of weed biology explaining “how” and “why” remains insufficient in facilitating this shift. This study employed a trait-based approach — examined the number of leaves, number of inflorescences, and height — to investigate the growth and developmental patterns of Amaranthus viridis, a weed species in the tropics, in response to NPK fertilization. The experiments were carried out in three sets of weeds — wild population (untreated and not transplanted; n = 6), NPK 15:15:15 (transplanted and fertilized with NPK 15:15:15 from March 2020 to September 2020; n = 30), and NPK 12:12:17 (transplanted and fertilized with NPK 12:12:17 from May 2021 to September 2021). The NPK treatment sets comprised five treatments, including one untreated control, with six replications for each treatment. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) and linear regression (R2) in three models were estimated using leaves, inflorescences and height as dependent and independent variables. In Model 1, the number of leaves was the dependent variable and plant height was the independent variable; Model 2 included the number of inflorescences as the dependent variable and the number of leaves as the independent variable, whereas the number of inflorescences as the dependent variable and number of leaves and height as the independent variables were used in Model 3. All models exhibited a significantly positive correlation and R2 (p < 0.01). Specifically, Model 3, examining the interactions of inflorescence with leaf numbers and plant height, demonstrated higher values for both r and R2. In conclusion, this study reveals the distinct patterns of functional traits in A. viridis in response to fertilizers and within wild populations, providing predictive models applicable to diverse data types, with implications for understanding inherent growth and responses of weed species for sustainable weed management practices, particularly in collaboration with smallholder farmers.
EFFECT OF BOILING CARICA PUBESCENS SEEDS ON ANTINUTRIENT CONTENT AND IN VITRO NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY
Authors: Idayanti Rahma Wulan , Rohani Tatik , Yayuki Fendi , Nur Syahrul Alfian , Ayu Saputri Ajeng , Puji Lestari Endang , Purnomoadi Agung , Purbowati Endang , Arifin Hadi Mukh
Published: April 2024

This research was conducted to determine the chemical composition and anti-nutritional content of Carica Dieng seeds (Carica pubescens) and their in vitro digestibility after boiling. The process of boiling is frequently employed to reduce antinutrient content and increase the digestibility of nutrients. This research used a completely randomized design, consisting of three treatments with boiling durations of 0, 10, and 20 minutes, each repeated six times. The research revealed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the tannin and saponin levels of Carica Dieng seeds following the boiling process. The concentration of carica seed tannin was lowered to a range of 36-48%, while the saponin content decreased by 52-58%. Subsequently, a descriptive analysis was conducted to assess the nutritional and amino acid composition of the seeds after boiling them for a duration of 10 minutes. Lysine (1.57% w/w) dominated the essential amino acids in Carica pubescens seeds, and glutamic acid (3.19% w/w) dominated the non-essential amino acids The digestibility of boiling carica seeds as feed was assessed by including them into complete feed at different proportions: 0% (T0), 5% (T2), 10% (T3), and 15% (T4). This experiment followed a Completely Randomized Design with five replications. The variables included in-vitro dry matter (DMD) and organic (OMD) digestibility. The DMD of carica seeds at a concentration of 0% showed a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) when compared to the addition of 5% carica seeds. However, there was no significant difference in DMD between adding carica seeds at levels of 10% and 15% in the total meal. The organic material digestibility variable showed that the treatment without carica seeds was not significantly different from adding 10% carica seeds but was substantially different from adding 5 and 15% carica seeds. Carica pubescens seed supplementation of up to 10-15% remains viable for inclusion in whole feed since it does not reduce digestibility.
OPTIMIZATION OF KINETIN CONCENTRATIONS AND MEDIUM COMPOSITIONS FOR CITRUS SHOOT MULTIPLICATION FROM COTILEDONARY NODE
Authors: Nugroho Kristianto , Kosmiatin Mia , Santoso Tri Joko , Sukma Dewi , Purwito Agus , Husni Ali , Martasari Chaireni
Published: April 2024

Plant regeneration post-genetic transformation play an important an role in genome editing activities that should be optimized via several factors such as the composition of the medium and the concentration of plant growth regulators. This study aimed to optimize the kinetin concentrations and medium compositions for shoot multiplication originating from cotyledon node explants of several local citrus cultivars. The cotyledonary nodes from three citrus cultivars (Batu 55, Siam Madu, and Proksi-1 Agrihorti) were incubated in MS medium with Morel and Wetmore vitamins (VMW) supplemented with several kinetin concentrations (0; 0.2; 0.4; 0.6; 0.8; and 1 mg/L). The best kinetin concentrations for number of shoots variable were then combined with MT medium. The results showed that kinetin concentration at 0.8 mg/L gave the best number of shoot in Batu 55 cultivar as well as 1 mg/L concentration in Siam Madu and Proksi-1 Agrihorti cultivars. The combination 1 mg/L kinetin with Murashige and Tucker (MT) medium showed the best number of shoots, percentage of shoot formation, number of leaves, number of nodes, and shoot length in this study. This medium composition could be further used for shoot multiplication in genetic transformation in those three citrus cultivars, including genome editing activities in development of new improved citrus varieties.
Representaciones sociales de los estudiantes con relación a la violencia entre pares
Authors: Morales Tovar Luz Fanny , Silva Castro Diana Marcela
Published: April 2024

La investigación que se presenta en el siguiente documento se desarrolla en la Institución Educativa Distrital Provincia de Quebec, ubicada en la localidad quinta de Usme de la ciudad de Bogotá, Colombia. El propósito planteado es conocer y analizar las representaciones sociales de los estudiantes de grado quinto con respecto a la violencia entre pares, reconociendo sus propias voces y miradas acerca de esta problemática.

Es un estudio de carácter cualitativo con enfoque hermenéutico desarrollado a partir de siete grupos focales, donde se presentan casos de violencia física, verbal o relacional y se profundiza en las representaciones sociales que poseen los participantes. El análisis de la información se realiza a partir de tres categorías: condiciones del contexto para la apropiación de las representaciones sociales, estructuración cognitiva de las representaciones sociales sobre violencia entre pares y dimensión actitudinal de las representaciones sociales de la violencia entre pares. De ahí se concluye que la representación social que poseen los niños y las niñas participantes frente a la problemática de la violencia entre pares está influenciada por el proceso cognitivo y las vivencias dadas en el entorno familiar, escolar y social, que genera representaciones que legitiman prácticas basadas en principios autoritarios, normativos y violentos, mientras que en pocos casos tienen un corte más dialógico, participativo y reflexivo.
Resident Memory T Cells in the Atherosclerotic Lesion Associate With Reduced Macrophage Content and Increased Lesion Stability
Authors: de Jong Maaike J.M. , Depuydt Marie A.C. , Schaftenaar Frank H. , Liu Kun , Maters David , Wezel Anouk , Smeets Harm J. , Kuiper Johan , Bot Ilze , van Gisbergen Klaas , Slütter Bram
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Tissue resident memory T (T
RM
) cells are a T-cell subset that resides at the site of prior antigen recognition to protect the body against reoccurring encounters. Besides their protective function, T
RM
cells have also been implicated in inflammatory disorders. T
RM
cells are characterized by the expression of CD69 and transcription factors Hobit (homolog of Blimp-1 [B lymphocyte–induced maturation protein 1] in T cells) and Blimp-1. As the majority of T cells in the arterial intima expresses CD69, T
RM
cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis as well. Here, we aimed to assess the presence and potential role of T
RM
cells in atherosclerosis.

METHODS:

To identify T
RM
cells in human atherosclerotic lesions, a single-cell RNA-sequencing data set was interrogated, and T-cell phenotypes were compared with that of integrated predefined T
RM
cells. The presence and phenotype of T
RM
in atherosclerotic lesions was corroborated using a mouse model that enabled tracking of Hobit-expressing T
RM
cells. To explore the function of T
RM
cells during atherogenesis, RAG1
−/−
(recombination activating gene 1 deficient) LDLr
−/−
(low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout) mice received a bone marrow transplant from Hobit
KO/CRE
Blimp-1
flox/flox
mice, which exhibit abrogated T
RM
cell formation, whereafter the mice were fed a Western-type diet for 10 weeks.

RESULTS:

Human atherosclerotic lesions contained T cells that exhibited a T
RM
cell–associated gene signature. Moreover, a fraction of these T cells clustered together with predefined T
RM
cells upon integration. The presence of Hobit-expressing T
RM
cells in the atherosclerotic lesion was confirmed in mice. These lesion-derived T
RM
cells were characterized by the expression of CD69 and CD49α. Moreover, we demonstrated that this small T-cell subset significantly affects lesion composition, by reducing the amount of intralesional macrophages and increasing collagen content.

CONCLUSIONS:

T
RM
cells, characterized by the expression of CD69 and CD49α, constitute a minor population in atherosclerotic lesions and are associated with increased lesion stability in a Hobit and Blimp-1 knockout mouse model.
Description of a new species of an apseudomorph tanaidacean (Crustacea: Peracarida: Tanaidacea: Kalliapseudidae) from India
Authors: V.K. KANSUNNISA , PADATE VINAY P. , CUBELIO SHERINE SONIA
Published: April 2024

N/A
Supercell Tornadogenesis: Recent Progress in Our State of Understanding
Authors: Fischer Jannick , Dahl Johannes M. L. , Coffer Brice E. , Houser Jana Lesak , Markowski Paul M. , Parker Matthew D. , Weiss Christopher C. , Schueth Alex
Published: April 2024

Over the last decade, supercell simulations and observations with ever-increasing resolution have provided new insights into the vortex-scale processes of tornado formation. This article incorporates these and other recent findings into the existing three-step model by adding an additional fourth stage. The goal is to provide an updated and clear picture of the physical processes occurring during tornadogenesis. Specifically, we emphasize the importance of the low-level wind shear and mesocyclone for tornado potential, the organization and interaction of relatively small-scale pretornadic vertical vorticity maxima, and the transition to a tornado-characteristic flow. Based on these insights, guiding research questions are formulated for the decade ahead.
Ultraviolet Resonant Raman Scattering of Electrolyte Solutions
Authors: Sassi Paola , Comez Lucia , D’Amico Francesco , Rossi Barbara , Bartolini Gabriele , Fioretto Daniele , Paolantoni Marco
Published: April 2024

Saltwater stands as the most prevalent liquid on Earth. Consequently, substantial interest has been directed toward its characterization, both as an independent system and as a solvent for complex structures such as biomacromolecules. In the last few decades, special emphasis was placed on the investigation of the hydration properties of ions for the fundamental role they play in numerous chemical processes. In this study, we employed multi-wavelength Raman spectroscopy to examine the hydration shell surrounding bromide ions in solutions of simple electrolytes, specifically lithium bromide, potassium bromide, and cesium bromide, at two different concentrations. Cation-induced differences among electrolytes were observed in connection to their tendency to form ion pairs. An increased sensitivity to reveal the structure of the first hydration shell was evidenced when employing ultraviolet excitation in the 228–266 nm range, under resonance conditions with the charge transfer transition to the solvent peaked at about 200 nm. Other than a significant increase in the Raman cross-section for the OH stretching band when shifting from pure water to the solution, a larger enhancement for the Raman signal of the H–O–H bending mode over the stretching vibration was observed. Thus, the bending band plays a crucial role in monitoring the H-bond structure of water around the anions related to the charge distribution within the first hydration shell of anions, being an effective probe of hydration phenomena.
Intimate Partner Violence During a Public Health Crisis: Variations in Conflict and Post Conflict Contexts
Authors: Iesue Laura , Timmer Anastasiia , Lozovska Olga , González Jenifer , Jawaid Ali
Published: April 2024

This study draws on survey data collected in a country embroiled in war, Ukraine, and a post-conflict country, Guatemala, to examine the influence of traumatic events on intimate partner violence victimization. Logistic regression models revealed that experiencing pandemic stress (e.g., fears of the virus, vaccine issues, and health care concerns) and daily hassles (e.g., family issues, financial problems, and prejudice) increased the risk of physical and verbal abuse victimization in both countries. Exposure to crises such as war and genocide predicted the risk of physical abuse victimization in Guatemala. The effects of pandemic stress in Ukraine and exposure to crises in Guatemala on victimization were more pronounced among those with fewer daily hassles. Variations among demographic groups were also observed.
Social interaction and recycling of waste mulch film: Understanding the impacts of communication channels
Authors: Li Jing , Chang Xue , Li Xiaotong
Published: April 2024

To control plastic pollution, it is imperative to encourage and facilitate waste mulch film (WMF) recycling by farmer cooperative members. We investigate the WMF recycling behavior of farmers in several randomly selected regions from the main vegetable-producing provinces in China. Propensity score matching is used to study the impacts of face-to-face, telephone, and social media communication on WMF recycling behavior of farmers. Our study shows that face-to-face communication is still the most important channel to promote farmers’ recycling behavior. Therefore, while it is more efficient to promote WMF recycling through social media in the Internet age, cooperative managers should not underestimate the role of face-to-face communication which is the preferred communication channel for many small farmers according to our analysis. Cooperative managers can better promote their members’ WMF recycling behavior through both social media and face-to-face communication.
Pregabalin-induced delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction occurring after 40 days of use: a case report
Authors: Zhang Mi , Du Kairong , Lu Yun , Wu Wei , Yan Huan , Jiang Qiaoli , Liu Liang , Feng Xiaobo
Published: April 2024

Pregabalin is the first-line treatment for neuropathic pain. Cases of cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions caused by pregabalin generally occur within 2 weeks of initiating medication. We report a rare case of a delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction caused by pregabalin, which was confirmed by a drug provocation test. A 72-year-old man with severe herpes zoster neuralgia developed maculopapular drug eruption covering 80% to 90% of his total body surface area after 40 days of combined multidrug analgesia. A drug provocation test for pregabalin was positive. The time interval between initiating medication and the onset of the patient’s rash was the longest and he also had the largest area of skin affected compared with patients with a similar condition in previous related reports. Remaining vigilant for possible adverse cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions during treatment is important because of the long-term course of pregabalin treatment for neuropathic pain.
Health-related quality of life in paediatric patients on peritoneal dialysis: Data from a tertiary centre
Authors: Hajj Elias , Awouters Marijke , Mosca Melodie , Flammier Sacha , Rachedi Sarra , Bacchetta Justine , De Mul Aurelie , Ranchin Bruno
Published: April 2024

Kidney failure has a negative impact on both children and families’ quality of life (QOL). We evaluated the burden of home peritoneal dialysis (PD) using two local questionnaires and the French version of PedsQL3.0 end-stage kidney disease module and family impact module. Data are expressed as median (min–max). We reviewed the charts of 12 patients, at a median age of 8.8 (1.2–16.7) years, undergoing maintenance PD for 8 (1–42) months. Parathyroid hormone and haemoglobin levels were 215 (17–606) ng/L and 117 (104–141) g/L, respectively. Patients were taking 7 (3–10) different medications, corresponding to 9 (4–17) doses per day. The PD fluid volume per cycle was 1035 (723–1348) mL/m2 with a dwell duration of 75 (60–90) min and 6 (5–9) cycles per night. On a 2-week period, there were 2 (1–11) alarms per night resulting in 2 (0–8) times waking up and getting out of the bed for the parent(s); families were late 1 (0–11) times for school or parent’s work. The time spent to connect and disconnect the cycler to the patient was 30 (12–46) min per day. QOL score on child self-report was correlated positively with weight percentile for age ( R = 0.857; p = 0.014) and negatively with the number of siblings ( R = −0.917; p = 0.004). The children QOL was evaluated higher by self-report scores: 77 (59–87) than by parent-proxy report scores: 53 (29–74), respectively ( p = 0.028). PD children/teenagers and their caregivers can feel overwhelmed by the daily home therapy. Self-report and parent-proxy report QOL were significantly different, and it is questionable whether the parent-proxy report QOL relies rather on parents’ own QOL.
Integrating philosophical perspectives into the study of public administration: The contribution of Critical Realism to understanding public value
Authors: Ongaro Edoardo , Yang Yi
Published: April 2024

Philosophical thought may provide an important contribution to the development of the theory and practice of public administration (PA). Notwithstanding such potential, however, philosophical thought has so far been limitedly employed in PA studies. To the extent philosophy has been brought into PA, three philosophies have been mainly used: Pragmatism, strands of Relativism-Constructivism, and Positivism. This paper argues that another philosophical approach can and ought to be considered much more systematically for application to foundational issues in PA studies, namely Critical Realism. The potential of this philosophical perspective is deployed to shed new light on key issues in the theory and practice of public value governance and management, a major area of academic investigation and practical application in the field of public administration and public management.
External Validation of the Risk Assessment Model of Venous Thromboembolism in Multicenter Internal Medicine Inpatients
Authors: Chen Xiaolan , Shi Hongning , Chang Jiaqi , Guo Wenjia , Yang Yuanhua , Wang Yong , Pan Lei
Published: April 2024

To external validate the risk assessment model (RAM) of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in multicenter internal medicine inpatients. We prospectively collected 595 internal medical patients (310 with VTE patients, 285 non-VTE patients) were from Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, and the respiratory department of Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital from January 2022 to December 2022 for multicenter external validation. The prediction ability of Caprini RAM, Padua RAM, The International Medical Prevention Registry on Venous Thromboembolism (IMPROVE) RAM, and Shijitan (SJT) RAM were compared. This study included a total of 595 internal medicine inpatients, including 242 (40.67%) in the respiratory department, 17 (2.86%) in the respiratory intensive care unit, 49 (8.24%) in the neurology department, 34 (5.71%) in the intensive care unit, 26 (4.37%) in the geriatric department, 22 (3.70%) in the emergency department, 71 (11.93%) in the nephrology department, 63 (10.59%) in the cardiology department, 24 (4.03%) in the hematology department, 6 (1.01%) in the traditional Chinese medicine department, 9 (1.51%) cases in the rheumatology department, 7 (1.18%) in the endocrinology department, 14 (2.35%) in the oncology department, and 11 (1.85%) in the gastroenterology department. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that among internal medicine inpatients, age > 60 years old, heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, tumors, history of VTE, and elevated D-dimer were significantly correlated with the occurrence of VTE ( P < .05). The incidence of VTE increases with the increase of D-dimer. It was found that the effectiveness of SJT RAM (AUC = 0.80 ± 0.03) was better than Caprini RAM (AUC = 0.74 ± 0.03), Padua RAM (AUC = 0.72 ± 0.03) and IMPROVE RAM (AUC = 0.52 ± 0.03) ( P < .05). The sensitivity and Yoden index of SJT RAM were higher than those of Caprini RAM, Pauda RAM, and IMPROVE RAM ( P < .05), but specificity was not significantly different between the 4 models ( P > .05). The SJT RAM derived from general hospitalized Chinese patients has effective and better predictive ability for internal medicine inpatients at risk of VTE.
Study of climate literacy and pro-environmental behavior amongst students
Authors: Srivastava Vinita
Published: April 2024

This research examines the role of effort at the school level in ensuring climate literacy and the influence of climate literacy on the environmental behavior of children. Literature has shown that pro-environmental behavior is mediated by hope and despair amongst the children. An attempt has been made to study the same. Also, the role of climate literacy in inducing indoor generation behavior was studied. The research is based on a questionnaire developed to measure the constructs (Efforts at the school level, hope, despair, climate literacy, pro-environmental behavior, and indoor generation behavior). The questionnaires were used to survey 477 students of the middle and high-level schools in Delhi National Capital Region (DelhiNCR), India. CB -Structural Equation modeling was used to study the influence and significance of the relationships. The research revealed that climate literacy, positively and significantly influenced proenvironmental behavior, while it wasn’t positively influencing indoor generation behavior. Hope was been found to positively mediate pro-environmental behavior. This research is one of its kind and explored the psychological and behavioral implications of climate literacy amongst school students.
Impact of intraoperative fluid administration and complications in head and neck cancer free flap surgery at a tertiary care hospital of a low and middle-income country
Authors: Ghaffar Waleed Bin , Shamim Faisal , Khalil Mujtaba , Abdul Ghaffar Moeed Bin , Munir Tahir
Published: April 2024

Perioperative fluid administration plays an essential role in head and neck cancer free flap surgery. The impact of intraoperative fluid administration on postoperative complications in head and neck cancer free flap surgery remains ill-defined. All adult patients who underwent a free flap surgery for head and neck cancer between January 2014 and December 2018 were included in the study. A total of 224 patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of patients was 45.0 years, and the majority were male (85.7%). Buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma (83%) was the most common diagnosis, and anterolateral thigh flap (46.4%) was the most routinely performed procedure. Perioperatively, ringer’s lactate was used most abundantly (68.3%). A total of 101 complications were reported in the postoperative period, consisting of 67 medical complications and 34 surgical complications. In conclusion, there is no statistically significant association between the quantity of fluid administration and postoperative complications.
Malaria vaccine acceptance among next of kin of children under 5 years of age in Gulu, northern Uganda in 2023: a community-based study
Authors: Bongomin Felix , Megwera Fiona Jollyne , Mundua Jerry , Naluwooza Nabirah , Ayesiga Frank , Nsubuga Yakobo , Madraa Grace , Kibone Winnie , Okot Jerom
Published: April 2024

Background:

Malaria is a leading cause of death among children under 5 years of age in sub-Saharan Africa. The malaria vaccine is an important preventive measure introduced by the World Health Organization to reduce malaria and its associated mortality and morbidity. We aimed to assess the acceptance of the malaria vaccine among next of kin of children under 5 years of age in Gulu City, Northern Uganda.

Methods:

Between October and December 2023, we conducted a cross-sectional study in Pece–Laroo division, Gulu City, Uganda. Socio-demographic, vaccine profile and health system factors were collected. Multivariable logistic regression was performed using STATA 16 to determine factors associated with acceptance of the malaria vaccine among next of kin of children under 5 years.

Results:

A total of 432 participants were enrolled. Of these, the majority were female (72.5%, n = 313) with most aged 30 years and above (51.2%, n = 221). Overall, 430 (99.5%) participants had good knowledge about malaria. The majority (91.4%, n = 395) had good acceptance of the malaria vaccine. Factors independently associated with acceptance of the malaria vaccine were knowing a child who died of malaria [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.13, p = 0.022] and preferring the injection route for a malaria vaccine (aPR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.06–1.22, p < 0.001). All 395 participants with good knowledge of malaria had good acceptance of the malaria vaccine ( p = 0.007).

Conclusion:

There was a high acceptance of the malaria vaccine in Laroo–Pece division, Gulu, Uganda. However, there is a need for further health education to achieve universal acceptability of the malaria vaccine in preparation for the malaria vaccine implementation program in Uganda.
Curating Virality: Exploring Curated Logics Within #BlackLivesMatter on Twitter/X
Authors: Duan Yiran , Hemsley Jeff , Smith Alexander O. , Joh Una , Gray LaVerne , Khoury Christy
Published: April 2024

This study examines what types of messages users posted and spread about #Black/Blue/AllLivesMatter during the Black History Month of 2022. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, about one million tweets were analyzed to test if different levels of opinion leaders tend to spread different kinds of messages related to the context. Using the curation logic of Thorson and Well and Lakoff’s semantic theory as theoretical lenses, we offer some observations about the differences in logics (incentives and norms) that opinion leaders in our dataset might face. We find that different levels of opinion leaders shared different types of messages. The implications of this study call for strategies that foster meaningful discussions on social movements amid polarized views. The study also advocates for refining platform design to encourage the dissemination of factual information over contentious arguments and reaching a societal consensus on critical social issues, such as racial inequality and police brutality. This research contributes to updating the theory of curation logics, virality, and opinion leaders, as well as provides empirical data for the discussions of the #BlackLivesMatter social movement and its related discussions of #AllLivesMatter and #BlueLivesMatter.
Role of Social Support in the Relationship Between Career Self-Efficacy and Psychological Distress Among Young People During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jemini-Gashi Liridona , Hoxha Naime
Published: April 2024

Throughout the COVID 19 pandemic, young people have experienced numerous changes in their routine. This has affected their health and well-being in all dimensions as well as academic life, including their career planning and decision-making process. We explored the role of social support in the relationship between career self-efficacy and psychological distress in young people. High school students ( N = 451) from different regions of Kosovo completed a series of validated measures online. The results showed the impact of the pandemic on career planning and decision-making processes and the negative correlation of career self-efficacy with psychological stress. Furthermore, the mediating roles of family, school, and peer support were observed. These findings provide valuable data for mental health and career professionals toward career guidance and counseling. Further theoretical and practical implications and future research directions have been discussed.
The association of blood eosinophil counts and FEV1decline: a cohort study
Authors: Hong Yun Soo , Park Hye Yun , Ryu Seungho , Shin Sun Hye , Zhao Di , Singh Dave , Guallar Eliseo , Cho Juhee , Chang Yoosoo , Lim Seong Yong
Published: April 2024

Background

Accelerated lung function decline is characteristic of COPD. However, the association between blood eosinophil counts and lung function decline, accounting for current smoking status, in young individuals without prevalent lung disease is not fully understood.

Methods

This is a cohort study of 629 784 Korean adults without COPD or a history of asthma at baseline who participated in health screening examinations including spirometry and differential white blood cell counts. We used a linear mixed-effects model to estimate the annual change in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (mL) by baseline blood eosinophil count, adjusting for covariates including smoking status. In addition, we performed a stratified analysis by baseline and time-varying smoking status.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 6.5 years (maximum 17.8 years), the annual change in FEV1(95% CI) in participants with eosinophil counts <100, 100–199, 200–299, 300–499 and ≥500 cells·µL−1in the fully adjusted model were −23.3 (−23.9–−22.7) mL, −24.3 (−24.9–−23.7) mL, −24.8 (−25.5–−24.2) mL, −25.5 (−26.2–−24.8) mL and −26.8 (−27.7–−25.9) mL, respectively. When stratified by smoking status, participants with higher eosinophil count had a faster decline in FEV1than those with lower eosinophil count in both never- and ever-smokers, which persisted when time-varying smoking status was used.

Conclusions

Higher blood eosinophil counts were associated with a faster lung function decline among healthy individuals without lung disease, independent of smoking status. The findings suggest that higher blood eosinophil counts contribute to the risk of faster lung function decline, particularly among younger adults without a history of lung disease.
Uptake and 4-week quit rates from an opt-out co-located smoking cessation service delivered alongside community-based low-dose computed tomography screening within the Yorkshire Lung Screening Trial
Authors: Murray Rachael L. , Alexandris Panos , Baldwin David , Brain Kate , Britton John , Crosbie Philip A.J. , Gabe Rhian , Lewis Sarah , Parrott Steve , Quaife Samantha L. , Tam Hui Zhen , Wu Qi , Beeken Rebecca , Copeland Harriet , Eckert Claire , Hancock Neil , Lindop Jason , McCutchan Grace , Marshall Catriona , Neal Richard D. , Rogerson Suzanne , Quinn Scoggins Harriet D. , Simmonds Irene , Thorley Rebecca , Callister Matthew E.
Published: April 2024

Background

Up to 50% of those attending for low-dose computed tomography screening for lung cancer continue to smoke and co-delivery of smoking cessation services alongside screening may maximise clinical benefit. Here we present data from an opt-out co-located smoking cessation service delivered alongside the Yorkshire Lung Screening Trial (YLST).

Methods

Eligible YLST participants were offered an immediate consultation with a smoking cessation practitioner (SCP) at their screening visit with ongoing smoking cessation support over subsequent weeks.

Results

Of 2150 eligible participants, 1905 (89%) accepted the offer of an SCP consultation during their initial visit, with 1609 (75%) receiving ongoing smoking cessation support over subsequent weeks. Uptake of ongoing support was not associated with age, ethnicity, deprivation or educational level in multivariable analyses, although men were less likely to engage (adjusted OR (ORadj) 0.71, 95% CI 0.56–0.89). Uptake was higher in those with higher nicotine dependency, motivation to stop smoking and self-efficacy for quitting. Overall, 323 participants self-reported quitting at 4 weeks (15.0% of the eligible population); 266 were validated by exhaled carbon monoxide (12.4%). Multivariable analyses of eligible smokers suggested 4-week quitting was more likely in men (ORadj1.43, 95% CI 1.11–1.84), those with higher motivation to quit and previous quit attempts, while those with a stronger smoking habit in terms of cigarettes per day were less likely to quit.

Conclusions

There was high uptake for co-located opt-out smoking cessation support across a wide range of participant demographics. Protected funding for integrated smoking cessation services should be considered to maximise programme equity and benefit.
Genome assembly of Melilotus officinalis provides a new reference genome for functional genomics
Authors: Meng Aoran , Li Xinru , Li Zhiguang , Miao Fuhong , Ma Lichao , Li Shuo , Sun Wenfei , Huang Jianwei , Yang Guofeng
Published: April 2024

Background

Sweet yellow clover (Melilotus officinalis) is a diploid plant (2n = 16) that is native to Europe. It is an excellent legume forage. It can both fix nitrogen and serve as a medicine. A genome assembly of Melilotus officinalis that was collected from Best corporation in Beijing is available based on Nanopore sequencing. The genome of Melilotus officinalis was sequenced, assembled, and annotated.

Results

The latest PacBio third generation HiFi assembly and sequencing strategies were used to produce a Melilotus officinalis genome assembly size of 1,066 Mbp, contig N50 = 5 Mbp, scaffold N50 = 130 Mbp, and complete benchmarking universal single-copy orthologs (BUSCOs) = 96.4%. This annotation produced 47,873 high-confidence gene models, which will substantially aid in our research on molecular breeding. A collinear analysis showed that Melilotus officinalis and Medicago truncatula shared conserved synteny. The expansion and contraction of gene families showed that Melilotus officinalis expanded by 565 gene families and shrank by 56 gene families. The contacted gene families were associated with response to stimulus, nucleotide binding, and small molecule binding. Thus, it is related to a family of genes associated with peptidase activity, which could lead to better stress tolerance in plants.

Conclusions

In this study, the latest PacBio technology was used to assemble and sequence the genome of the Melilotus officinalis and annotate its protein-coding genes. These results will expand the genomic resources available for Melilotus officinalis and should assist in subsequent research on sweet yellow clover plants.
Sequence characteristics, genetic diversity and phylogenetic analysis of the Cucurbita ficifolia (Cucurbitaceae) chloroplasts genome
Authors: He Shuilian , Xu Bin , Chen Siyun , Li Gengyun , Zhang Jie , Xu Junqiang , Wu Hang , Li Xuejiao , Yang Zhengan
Published: April 2024

Background

Curcubita ficifolia Bouché (Cucurbitaceae) has high value as a food crop and medicinal plant, and also has horticultural value as rootstock for other melon species. China is home to many different cultivars, but the genetic diversity of these resources and the evolutionary relationships among them, as well as the differences between C. ficifolia and other Cucurbita species, remain unclear.

Results

We investigated the chloroplast (cp) genomes of 160 C. ficifolia individuals from 31 populations in Yunnan, a major C. ficifolia production area in China. We found that the cp genome of C. ficifolia is ~151 kb and contains 128 genes, of which 86 are protein coding genes, 34 encode tRNA, and eight encode rRNAs. We also identified 64 SSRs, mainly AT repeats. The cp genome was found to contain a total of 204 SNP and 57 indels, and a total of 21 haplotypes were found in the 160 study individuals. The reverse repeat (IR) region of C. ficifolia contained a few differences compared with this region in the six other Cucurbita species. Sequence difference analysis demonstrated that most of the variable regions were concentrated in the single copy (SC) region. Moreover, the sequences of the coding regions were found to be more similar among species than those of the non-coding regions. The phylogenies reconstructed from the cp genomes of 61 representative species of Cucurbitaceae reflected the currently accepted classification, in which C. ficifolia is sister to the other Cucurbita species, however, different interspecific relationships were found between Cucurbita species.

Conclusions

These results will be valuable in the classification of C. ficifolia genetic resources and will contribute to our understanding of evolutionary relationships within the genus Cucurbita.
Helminth-derived proteins as immune system regulators: a systematic review of their promise in alleviating colitis
Authors: Alghanmi Maimonah , Minshawi Faisal , Altorki Tarfa A. , Zawawi Ayat , Alsaady Isra , Naser Abdallah Y , Alwafi Hassan , Alsulami Soa’ad M. , Azhari Ala A. , Hashem Anwar M , Alhabbab Rowa
Published: April 2024

Helminth-derived proteins have immunomodulatory properties, influencing the host’s immune response as an adaptive strategy for helminth survival. Helminth-derived proteins modulate the immune response by inducing anti-inflammatory cytokines, promoting regulatory T-cell development, and ultimately favouring a Th2-biased immune response. This systematic review focused on helminth-derived proteins and explored their impact on reducing inflammatory responses in mouse models of colitis. A systematic search across Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library identified fourteen relevant studies. These studies reported immunomodulatory changes, including increased production of anti-inflammatory cells and cytokines. In mouse models of colitis treated with on helminth-derived proteins, significant improvements in pathological parameters such as body weight, colon length, and microscopic inflammatory scores were observed compared to control groups. Moreover, helminth-derived proteins can enhance the function of Tregs and alleviate the severity of inflammatory conditions. The findings underscore the pivotal role of helminth-derived proteins in immunomodulation, specifically in the axis of cytokine secretion and immune cell polarization. The findings offer new opportunities for treating chronic inflammatory conditions such Crohn’s disease.
Associations between 47 anthropometric markers derived from a body scanner and relative fat-free mass in a population-based study
Authors: Dietzmann Maximilian , Radke Dörte , Markus Marcello RP , Wiese Mats , Völzke Henry , Felix Stephan B. , Dörr Marcus , Bahls Martin , Ittermann Till
Published: April 2024

Background

Low relative fat free mass (FFM) is associated with a greater risk of chronic diseases and mortality. Unfortunately, FFM is currently not being measured regularly to allow for individuals therapy.

Objective

One reason why FFM is not being used may be related to additional equipment and resources, thus we aimed to identify easily accessible anthropometric markers related with FFM.

Materials and methods

We analyzed data of 1,593 individuals (784 women; 49.2%, age range 28–88 years) enrolled in the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-TREND 1). Forty-seven anthropometric markers were derived from a 3D optical body-scanner. FFM was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (FFMBIA) or air displacement plethysmography (FFMADP). In sex-stratified linear regression models, FFM was regressed on anthropometric measurements adjusted for body height and age. Anthropometric markers were ranked according to the coefficient of determination (R2) derived from these regression models.

Results

Circumferences of high hip, belly, middle hip, waist and high waist showed the strongest inverse associations with FFM. These relations were stronger in females than in males. Associations of anthropometric markers with FFMAPD were greater compared to FFMBIA.

Conclusion

Anthropometric measures were more strongly associated with FFMADP compared to FFMBIA. Anthropometric markers like circumferences of the high or middle hip, belly or waist may be appropriate surrogates for FFM to aid in individualized therapy. Given that the identified markers are representative of visceral adipose tissue, the connection between whole body strength as surrogate for FFM and fat mass should be explored in more detail.
Use of serum KL-6 and chest radiographic severity grade to predict 28-day mortality in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zou Jing , Shi Yiping , Xue Shan , Jiang Handong
Published: April 2024

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a global social and economic impact. An easy assessment procedure to handily identify the mortality risk of inpatients is urgently needed in clinical practice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a simple nomogram model to categorize patients who might have a poor short-term outcome.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 189 COVID-19 patients was performed at Shanghai Ren Ji Hospital from December 12, 2022 to February 28, 2023. Chest radiography and biomarkers, including KL-6 were assessed. Risk factors of 28-day mortality were selected by a Cox regression model. A nomogram was developed based on selected variables by SMOTE strategy. The predictive performance of the derived nomogram was evaluated by calibration curve.

Results

In total, 173 patients were enrolled in this study. The 28-day mortality event occurred in 41 inpatients (23.7%). Serum KL-6 and radiological severity grade (RSG) were selected as the final risk factors. A nomogram model was developed based on KL-6 and RSG. The calibration curve suggested that the nomogram model might have potential clinical value. The AUCs for serum KL-6, RSG, and the combined score in the development group and validation group were 0.885 (95% CI: 0.804–0.952), 0.818 (95% CI: 0.711–0.899), 0.868 (95% CI: 0.776–0.942) and 0.932 (95% CI: 0.862–0.997), respectively.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that the nomogram based on KL-6 and RSG might be a potential method for evaluating 28-day mortality in COVID-19 patients. A high combined score might indicate a poor outcome in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia.