bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction and validation of a prediction model for arteriovenous fistula thrombosis in patients with AVF using Lasso regression
Authors: Zhang Jingwei , Fan Yi , Luo Xuyang , Kang Yuwei , Yang Wei , Ma Shijie , Meng Xianglong , He Qiang , Geng Xiaoxia , Deng Fei
Published: January 2025

Objective:

The primary objective of this study is to develop and validate a high-risk model for Arteriovenous Fistula Thrombosis (AVFT) in patients undergoing autogenous arteriovenous fistula surgery for hemodialysis.

Methods:

Retrospectively, we collected general information, clinical characteristics, laboratory examinations, and dialysis-related factors from a cohort of 1465 patients who received continuous arteriovenous fistula surgery at the Hemodialysis Access Center of Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital between January 2019 and June 2022. The patients were randomly divided into a training set and a validation set in a 2:1 ratio. The training set was utilized to select AVFT-related features using LASSO regression. A predictive model was constructed using logistic regression analysis, and its performance was assessed in the validation set.

Results:

Through LASSO regression, we initially identified 13 candidate factors. Subsequently, based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) principle, the following factors were selected to construct the AVFT prediction model: monocytes_ratio, Fistula blood velocity, cystatin-c, homocysteine, parathormone, artery_dysfunction, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and d-dimer. The discrimination C-index of the model in the training set was 0.8767. For this training set, the sensitivity was 48.05% and the specificity was 96.84%. In the validation set, the model’s discrimination C-index, as evaluated by the ROC curve analysis, was 0.7888. The sensitivity was 14.29%, and the specificity was 97.04%. We assessed the calibration of the model using calibration curves, obtaining a maximum absolute difference of Emax = 0.205 and an average absolute difference of Eave = 0.032. Furthermore, we evaluated calibration and accuracy using the Spiegelhalter Z-test, yielding an S:P ratio of 0.704.

Conclusion:

AVFT is a multifactorial outcome influenced by factors such as injury, inflammatory factors, blood glucose levels, blood velocity, coagulation, electrolyte metabolism, and vascular endothelial function.
Comparison Valsalva maneuver and auriculotherapy on pain intensity of peripheral intravenous cannulation in adults: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Reza , Mohammadpour Ali , Mojtabavi Seyed Javad , Baloochi Beydokhti Tahereh
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Effective pain management during peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) poses a significant challenge for medical practitioners in the emergency department. A range of non-pharmacological interventions have been advanced to address this concern. This study aimed to compare the effects of the Valsalva maneuver (VM) and auriculotherapy on pain intensity during PIVC in adults.

Methods:

A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 99 adult patients referred to Emergency department Hospital in Gonabad, Iran. Patients were randomly assigned into three groups VM ( n = 33), auriculotherapy ( n = 33), and control ( n = 33). Pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) immediately after PIVC. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with a significance level of less than 0.05.

Results:

The mean pain scores in the VM, auriculotherapy, and control groups were 2.88 ± 3.81, 2.57 ± 3.45, and 7.13 ± 2.39, respectively. Kruskal–Walli’s test revealed a significant difference among the groups ( p < 0.001). Pairwise comparisons indicated no significant difference between VM and auriculotherapy groups in pain intensity ( p = 0.67). However, significant differences were observed between the control group and the VM group ( p < 0.001) as well as between the control group and the auriculotherapy group ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The results of this study demonstrate that both auriculotherapy and the Valsalva maneuver effectively reduce pain during PIVC in adults. Healthcare providers can consider incorporating these methods to help alleviate pain during PIVC procedures.
An Indigenous learning approach to managing solid waste in First Nations in Canada
Authors: Assuah Anderson
Published: January 2025

The literature on municipal solid waste management on First Nations emphasizes the need to improve existing systems and attitudes and behaviours. Learning about programmes and systems can bring about these changes. This research examined how two First Nations in Canada learned about municipal solid waste management in an Indigenous context and the consequent impacts of their learning. The data show that participants mostly learned from close family relations and conversations with community members, while learning directly from Elders, ceremonies, and storytelling was limited. Intergenerational learning occurred, where the younger generation learned from the older generation and vice-versa. The impacts of learning included reducing municipal solid waste generation, avoiding packaging, and reusing items. This research concludes that Indigenous learning should be incorporated into municipal solid waste programmes because it is culturally relevant and helps create awareness. In addition, Elders should be deliberately involved in planning programmes, and municipal solid waste issues should be incorporated into ceremonies about land protection.
Trends and directions in acculturation research
Authors: Bisaria Vandya , Bansal Parul
Published: January 2025

With rapid globalisation, cultural exchanges have increased and geographical boundaries have become porous. In this time of global connectivity, acculturation has been researched to understand cultural assimilation and identity formation. The outcome of cultural exposure on individual identity, group identity and the effect on cultural practices has been widely debated. The primary aim of the article is to review the conceptualizations on acculturation and the factors influencing it. It reviews critical perspectives on Berry’s model (1997) of immigration, acculturation and adaptation and presents alternative ideas on identity formation as people move between cultures. The article also provides few future directions for theory building.
Comprehensive assessment of caregiver burden and strain in early-stage Parkinson’s disease: An exploratory study
Authors: Maggio Maria Grazia , Culicetto Laura , Bonanno Lilla , De Luca Rosaria , Corallo Francesco , Rizzo Amelia , Marino Silvia , Quartarone Angelo , Luca Antonina , Nicoletti Alessandra , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: January 2025

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor and cognitive functions, reducing the quality of life (QoL) for both patients and caregivers. This study explored correlations between clinical and psychological factors in early-stage PD patients and their caregivers, focusing on disease burden and caregiver stress. Nineteen PD patients and their caregivers were assessed. For patients, we evaluated disease severity (Hoehn and Yahr), cognitive functions (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA), anxiety levels (Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety, HRS-A), and quality of life (Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire, PDQ-39). For caregiver, we assessed caregiver burden (Caregiver Burden Inventory, CBI), functional social support (Family Strain Questionnaire, FSQ), and anxiety level (HRS-A). Spearman’s correlation analyzed relationships between patient factors and caregiver burden. Cognitive impairment (MoCA) negatively correlated with patient QoL (PDQ-Cogn; r = −0.48, p = 0.04). Caregiver anxiety (HRS-A) was positively correlated with physical ( r = 0.65, p = 0.003) and emotional stress ( r = 0.57, p = 0.01), and higher family stress (FSQ). Our study highlights the complex relationships between clinical and psychological factors in PD patients and their caregivers. This supports the need for integrated approaches that address the clinical management of PD and the caregivers’ psychological well-being.
Development of the NO2 ratio model for heavy-duty diesel engine two-stage SCR aftertreatment system
Authors: Li Jincheng , Zheng Zunqing , Sun Haibo , Li Gang , Yao Mingfa
Published: January 2025

A diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) outlet nitrogen dioxide (NO2) ratio model based on the model-based calibration (MBC) method was proposed, which is an important part of the two-stage selective catalytic reduction (SCR) control strategy for heavy-duty diesel engines. Emissions regulations for heavy-duty diesel engines around the world have become more stringent in limiting nitrogen oxide (NOx), especially when the engine is cold starting, which brings serious challenges to the aftertreatment system. The two-stage SCR system with the close coupled selective catalytic reduction-diesel oxidation catalyst-diesel particulate filter-selective catalytic reduction (ccSCR-DOC-DPF-SCR) layout has the potential to achieve ultra-low NOx emissions due to its high technology maturity, but the two-stage SCR urea injection control strategy based on the chemical reaction kinetics model presents a new functional requirement for the prediction of NO2 ratio at the DOC outlet. However, experiments show that the Euro VI method based on calibration to obtain DOC outlet NO2 ratio was not suitable for the two-stage SCR system, because of the temperature delay effect of ccSCR in transient conditions. Therefore, a quadratic polynomial model using the MBC method was constructed to predict the DOC outlet NO2 ratio in the two-stage SCR system. The proposed MBC model can predict the NO2 ratio by using exhaust mass flow rate, DOC inlet temperature, and DOC inlet NOx concentration. Experiments show that the proposed MBC model has wide applicability, for the two-stage SCR system under transient conditions, whether ccSCR urea injection is enabled will not affect the accuracy of the model’s prediction of the NO2 ratio for the DOC outlet or SCR inlet.
Attitudes towards violence against women among second-generation refugee, migrant and native Swiss adolescents in Zurich, Switzerland
Authors: Ghuneim Lana , Eisner Manuel , Ribeaud Denis
Published: January 2025

Research on violence against women (VAW) attitudes among adolescent migrant communities is limited. This study examines VAW attitudes in second-generation refugee and migrant adolescents compared to native adolescents in Zurich, Switzerland. Participants completed surveys at ages 15 and 17 as part of a longitudinal study. The research explores differences in VAW attitudes between groups and identifies factors associated with higher support for VAW. Findings show low overall support for VAW across all groups, with second-generation refugee adolescents significantly more likely to support VAW than native adolescents. However, regression analyses controlling for gender, parental education and maternal gender inequality index revealed no direct relationship between migration background and VAW attitudes without interaction terms. Significant interactions were found between refugee background and moral neutralisation of aggression at ages 15 and 17 and with experiencing corporal punishment at age 15. Higher VAW attitudes among second-generation refugees are linked to increased moral neutralisation of aggression and experience of corporal punishment. Interestingly, those with average levels of these factors demonstrate lower VAW attitudes compared to both second-generation migrants and natives, indicating successful assimilation. Overall, while VAW attitudes are generally low among second-generation refugees, targeted interventions addressing moral neutralisation of aggression could mitigate residual higher support during this developmental phase.
Addressing Health-Related Social Needs During COVID-19 Through a Hospital-Based, Community Health Worker Program: A Case Study
Authors: Petruzzi Liana J. , Garza Brenda , Patel Snehal , Brode W. Michael , Hanson Kacey , Degtoff Tania , Mora Christopher , Garay Ricardo , Phillips Farya , Cook Rebecca , Mercer Timothy , Valdez Carmen R.
Published: January 2025

Background. Despite accounting for 34% of the population in Austin, Texas, Latinx individuals made up 50% of those who tested positive for coronavirus, 54% of COVID-related hospitalizations, and 51% of COVID-related deaths between March and June 2020. Of hospitalized Latinx patients, 40% had never seen a primary care provider and many had undiagnosed health conditions. A community health worker (CHW) pilot program was implemented based on these disparities. Method. This mixed-method implementation study describes a hospital-based, CHW program for Latinx patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at an academic medical center in Austin, Texas. The program included a social needs assessment, care coordination, and post-discharge follow-up. Patient data include demographics from the full sample ( N = 57), social determinants of health ( n = 24), and qualitative interviews ( n = 6). Focus group data from health care professionals ( n = 26) is also presented to describe the benefits of the CHW program. Results. Latinx patients in this study, two-thirds of who primarily spoke Spanish, reported high levels of satisfaction with the CHW program with fewer reported social needs after the CHW program. Health care providers underscored CHW expertise in addressing complex social needs, providing continuity of care within the hospital, and closing the loop through community resource navigation. Conclusion. This study demonstrated the capacity of CHWs to provide holistic care in hospital settings through trust building and increased capacity to address health-related social needs. Investment in hospital-based, CHW programs for vulnerable populations such as uninsured, Spanish-speaking patients is necessary to reduce health disparities beyond COVID-19.
Preventing Underage Tobacco Access: A Cross-Sectional Study of Retailer Training in Southern Illinois
Authors: Manietta Luke , Kumbalatara Chesmi , Rhodes Jennifer , Jadalla Hend , Jayawardene Wasantha
Published: January 2025

Background. Stringent regulations restricting tobacco access to those under 21 are in place, yet young people continue accessing tobacco products. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, opinions, resource utilization, and training needs of tobacco retailers in terms of preventing underage tobacco sales. Methodology. This cross-sectional study analyzed anonymized responses from 467 licensed tobacco retailers in 16 southern counties of Illinois. The survey included 29 questions adapted from validated items, utilized a hybrid methodology (online and in-person), and targeted both retail store owners and managers. Results. Among 118 respondents, 98.3% were aware of the Tobacco-21 law, but 56.8% doubted its impact on reducing underage sales. Gaps in knowledge persisted, especially regarding policies and enforcement laws for Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS). Overall, there was a disparity in preventive measures and program utilization with a low engagement in rural areas and smaller stores. Approximately 48.3% encountered older youths attempting to purchase tobacco. Most respondents (72.9%) supported training for newly hired clerks, focusing on underage sales refusal (54.2%) and ID verification (62.7%). Nearly half (44.9%) felt the need for training in handling aggressive young buyers. The main barrier to training was time constraints for in-person sessions (28.0%), although 41.5% reported no barriers. While “We Card” was widely used (82.2%), only 38.5% displayed the FDA’s “This is Our Watch.” Conclusion. A discrepancy exists between awareness and effective practice among retailers, especially in rural areas and smaller establishments. Findings highlighted the need for targeted retailer training and resource utilization to combat underage tobacco access.
Navigating the influence of professional abstinence on pharmacy students: Observations and solutions from their perspective
Authors: Hall Jill J. , Tong Haley , Watson Kaitlyn E. , Tsuyuki Ross T. , Biggs Catherine , Charrois Theresa L.
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

As the scope of practice continues to evolve for pharmacists, professional abstinence is being observed by students in workplaces and practicums. Professional abstinence is defined as “consciously choosing not to provide the full scope of patient care activities”. Exposure of students to professional abstinence may cause cognitive dissonance, as they are challenged by practices that do not match what they are taught in school. This study explores pharmacy student perspectives on professional abstinence in community practice settings and their thoughts on how it could be addressed.

Methods:

Pharmacy students enrolled at an accredited Canadian pharmacy school with previous experience at a community practice site were invited to participate via email and social media. Data were collected between March and November 2021 through virtual individual interviews using a semistructured guide and the Zoom platform. Recordings were transcribed verbatim, and data were analyzed using cognitive dissonance theory to guide the inductive coding and interpretation of results.

Results:

Twenty students representing 6 pharmacy schools were recruited. Themes identified regarding students’ experiences with professional abstinence were “introspection and reflection” and “the system”, with the subthemes of emotion, excuses, professional identity and infrastructure, and inertia/disengagement, respectively. Regarding how to address professional abstinence, the themes “self as professional” and “empowering professionals” emerged. Self as professional included the subthemes of continuous learning, role modelling/mentorship, and internal drive/initiative, while empowering professionals included improved logistics, self-care, and advocacy.

Conclusion:

Students’ experiences with professional abstinence led to mixed feelings and influences on their professional identity. Pharmacy schools should be made aware of the phenomenon of professional abstinence and its effect on students, as they can potentially help manage learners’ cognitive dissonance and best prepare them for their future full-scope practices.
Local concepts of teacher professionalism: Evidence from rural Sierra Leone
Authors: Samonova Elena , Devine Dympna , Sugrue Ciaran , Smith Aimee
Published: January 2025

Teacher professionalism has become a key focus of education policy worldwide, however, there is no common understanding of what a ‘professional’ teacher means. Existing studies rely mostly on the experiences of teachers in high income, industrialised and predominantly Western contexts, while teachers’ experiences in the Global South are rarely addressed. This paper aims to contribute to this discussion examining perceptions of teacher professionalism at the national and local level in Sierra Leone. The study draws on a longitudinal mixed-methods study, incorporating both survey and ethnographic fieldwork in one of the poorest rural districts of northern Sierra Leone. The analysis revealed a disconnect between the neoliberal concepts found in the national policies and understanding of professionalism at the grassroots level that is focused on extended social roles of teachers within communities. It problematizes the uncritical application of global Western-based concepts to other contexts and shows an urgent need of an open dialogue on teacher professionalism that would include multiple views and perspectives.
Hysteresis in reach planning and spatial demonstrative choice
Authors: Long Michael , Kaschak Michael P
Published: January 2025

Recent studies have demonstrated hysteresis in studies of syntactic choice in language production. These studies further show that the hysteresis effects observed in syntactic choice are similar to the effects observed in motor choice tasks. Here, we examine whether hysteresis can be observed for a different kind of linguistic choice, namely the choice between the spatial demonstratives this and that. We further examine whether these hysteresis effects parallel the hysteresis effects found in a similar motor task. Our results demonstrate hysteresis in both spatial demonstrative choice and motor choice. Nevertheless, there were some effects that appeared in the motor task that did not appear in the language task (e.g., a response time advantage for repeated choices).
Development of cost-effective, high-performance ceramic-metallic brake pads for agricultural tractors
Authors: Eakambaram A , Sai Balaji MA , Venkatachalam S , Katiyar Jitendra Kumar , Rajkumar S , Solaiachari Sivakumar
Published: January 2025

A cerametallic friction pad (CMDE) was developed through the Powder metallurgy route and validated through a classical SAEJ 661 standard laboratory test (Chase Testing machine) followed by the field test. The same was compared with an imported OE (CMOE) pad. In the chase test, CMDE fared poorly in fade-1 by 25% concerning the reference value but fulfilled the fade-II and recovery characteristics. From a wear viewpoint, the specific wear rate of CMDE and CMOE are marginally close. Considering the wear in the field test, CMDE has shown 11.1% more wear than CMOE, but 20% less wear in the mating part. More reduction in the surface roughness of CMDE after the field test evidenced its engagement characteristics by deforming asperities. Adhesive wear scoring marks were visible along the sliding direction of the pressure plate and the sintered friction pad. Thus, CMDE has the potential to replace CMOE in performance and cost
Kienböck’s Disease – Incidence and operations in Finland: a nationwide register study
Authors: Wernér Krista , Anttila Turkka , Viljakka Timo , Ryhänen Jorma , Hulkkonen Sina
Published: January 2025

This study assessed the nationwide incidence of Kienböck’s Disease, and operations performed for Kienböck’s Disease from the Care Register for Health Care in Finland 1996–2022. The mean annual total standardized incidence rate per million person-years was 9.60 (95% CI: 9.10–10.11) and for men and women, 10.38 (95% CI: 9.63–11.13) and 8.78 (95% CI: 8.10–9.45), respectively. The incidence rate was highest for 50–59-year-olds, at 15.49. Compared with women, the incidence rate for men was higher across all age groups up to 60–69 years. Altogether, 44% of the patients were operated on, and 19% of them had multiple operations. Partial arthrodesis was the most performed procedure and salvage procedures covered 62% of all operations. Our findings provide comprehensive new evidence about Kienböck’s Disease distribution across Finland’s population and offer insights into the burden caused by operations.

Level of evidence: III
Levels of evidence in hand surgery: a review and guide
Authors: Hems Tim
Published: January 2025

This article explores the background to the concept of levels of evidence and their role in promoting the principles of evidence-based medicine within hand surgery. The Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume) requires allocation of a level of evidence to each full-length clinical research article. The system employed by the Journal is described, together with discussion of limitations and difficulties in application. Most articles published on hand surgery still have a low level of evidence. Insights and editorial perspectives on various types of research study and the classification of evidence levels are included. Clinical importance of articles and the need to encourage innovation as opposed to high levels of evidence are also discussed.
Health mediation intervention at the base of a social housing complex in Seine-Saint-Denis, France: a mixed-methods, realistic evaluation protocol
Authors: Calarco Roberto , Prevot-Monsacre Pol , Paternoster Morgane , Vignier Nicolas , Trévidy Frédérique , Cailhol Johann
Published: January 2025

Health mediation, similar to health navigation in the United States or Canada, is known by various terms worldwide. In France, health mediation has historically been implemented by civil society organizations to support hard-to-reach populations. Health mediation is increasingly considered by health authorities as a valuable tool for health promotion to reduce health inequalities. However, systematic evaluations of its effects are scarce, making it difficult for decision-makers to generalize health mediation as a health policy. Our study aims to bridge this gap, by framing a research protocol to evaluate a health mediation intervention. The intervention consists of setting up a biweekly mobile booth using an ‘outreach’ approach at the base of a social housing complex in 12 neighborhoods of Seine-Saint-Denis with marked indicators of social deprivation. We chose a realistic evaluation approach and a mixed-methods methodology, which is the best fit for assessing complex interventions such as the one we aim to assess. Realistic evaluation is a relatively new approach, and sharing studies based on this type of epistemological and methodological approach is required. This study aims to contribute to the reflection on and the production of standard tools to ensure that the use of this evaluation approach is improved.
Perceptions of China in the Age of COVID-19: Findings from Pakistan's Media Spheres
Authors: Naseer Shirin
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a test for China's soft power, drawing diverse reactions from its friends and foes. This article investigates the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on China's image, delving specifically into sentiments within one of the most China-friendly nations in the world, Pakistan. This study conducts a qualitative content analysis of Pakistan's news media and X sphere and investigates sentiments towards China and Chinese vaccines from 2020 to 2021. Media narratives were found to be distinctly more negative towards Chinese vaccines than China in the aftermath of the pandemic. An assessment of dominant media narratives offers possible explanations for the divergence in sentiments, mainly attributing them to “China's support of Pakistan,” “China's domestic containment,” “China's international role,” and “conspiracy theories and misinformation.” This article provides insights into China's vaccine diplomacy, its soft power dynamics, and public sentiment sway within its most amicable partnership in the international arena.
A giant degenerative uterine leiomyoma mimicking an ovarian neoplasm: Case report
Authors: Hoang Van Trung , Hoang The Huan , Van Hoang Anh Thi , Pham Ngoc Trinh Thi , Chansomphou Vichit , Nguyen Thanh Tam Thi , Trinh Cong Thao , Hoang Duc Thanh
Published: January 2025

Uterine leiomyoma, also referred to as fibroid or myoma, is a prevalent benign tumor that can present with a range of clinical manifestations. The symptoms, which vary based on the tumor’s location, size, and number, include pain, constipation, urinary disturbances, and abnormal menstrual bleeding. Certain types of uterine leiomyomas, such as pedunculated subserosal myomas or large degenerating cystic myomas, may closely mimic ovarian tumors, leading to significant diagnostic and management challenges. In this report, we present the case of a 47-year-old woman who experienced severe dyspnea and abdominal distension. Comprehensive radiological evaluation revealed a massive lesion, with both solid and cystic components, occupying the entire abdominopelvic cavity. Histological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of cellular leiomyoma. This case underscores the importance of considering degenerative cystic myoma in the differential diagnosis of large, cystic intra-abdominal tumors of unknown origin, to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate management.
The intersection of digital health and artificial intelligence: Clearing the cloud of uncertainty
Authors: Graili Pooyeh , Farhoudi Bijan
Published: January 2025

Digital health (DH) and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare are rapidly evolving but were addressed synonymously by many healthcare authorities and practitioners. A deep understanding and clarification of these concepts are fundamental and a prerequisite for developing robust frameworks and practical guidelines to ensure the safety, efficacy, and effectiveness of DH solutions and AI-embedded technologies. Categorizing DH into technologies (DHTs) and services (DHSs) enables regulatory, HTA, and reimbursement bodies to develop category-specific frameworks and guidelines for evaluating these solutions effectively. DH is the key in generating real-world data, which is increasingly important in decision-making processes. The potential benefits of DHTs in improving health outcomes and reducing health system costs can position them alongside traditional health technologies in certain medical conditions. AI, one of the potential tools for DH, can be embedded in technologies, such as medical devices or applications, to enhance functionality and performance. AI excels at handling numerical and perceptual data. In the context of numerical data, machine learning algorithms enable prediction, classification, and clustering. In managing perceptual data, AI recognizes image/video, voice, and text. In recent years, generative AI, a form of AI that generates new content by employing a combination of a wide range of learning approaches, has become prominent in research and influences the health sector. A thorough understanding of DH and AI, along with accurate terminology use, would facilitate the timely generation of regulatory and HTA-grade evidence that helps improve health outcomes and decision-making certainty.
Hyperconnectivity in resting-state fMRI as a marker of disease severity in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1
Authors: Garmendia Joana , Labayru Garazi , Jiménez-Marín Antonio , Villanúa Jorge , Cortés Jesús , López de Munain Adolfo , Sistiaga Andone
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) patients show both structural and functional brain alterations, including abnormal resting-state (RS) functional connectivity. Although some studies have investigated RS functional connectivity in DM1, methodological differences make it challenging to draw consistent conclusions.

Objectives:

This study aims to analyze 1) RS functional connectivity in DM1 patients compared to healthy controls (HC), 2) graph theory metrics, 3) longitudinal connectivity variations, and 4) the relationship between connectivity and clinical, cognitive, and structural brain data.

Methodology:

Twenty-one DM1 patients and 21 matched HCs underwent 3 T MRI scans, including RS fMRI. Of these, 15 DM1 patients and 13 HCs participated in the follow-up after 3 years. Additionally, DM1 patients underwent baseline clinical, molecular and cognitive assessments. Functional connectivity analysis (ROI-to-ROI) and graph theory measures were employed. Longitudinal changes in connectivity were examined, and total hyperconnectivity and hypoconnectivity values were calculated to explore correlations with clinical, brain, and cognitive correlates.

Results:

DM1 patients showed widespread hyperconnectivity compared to HCs. Although no statistically significant differences were found in graph theory measures, patients tended to show decreased efficiency, strength, and clustering (with moderate effect sizes). Patients remained hyperconnected over time, with a progression similar to HCs. Hyperconnectivity was associated with more severe disease, greater muscular impairment, and molecular defects, as well as lower cognitive performance. Conversely, hypoconnectivity was associated with less severe disease.

Discussion:

DM1 patients are characterized by brain hyperconnectivity and a less efficient brain network organization. Hyperconnectivity is discussed as a compensatory mechanism and is suggested as a disease severity marker.
Examining the Contours and Challenges of National Cybercrime Reporting Portal in Countering Digital Financial Frauds
Authors: Chandra Dakshina
Published: January 2025

Digitalization and ease of financial transactions have spurted a ubiquitous rise in cybercrimes. In 2021, 60.8 per cent of reported cybercrime cases registered were for the motive of fraud. To tackle mounting digital financial fraud complaints, the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal was created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs. The portal is an integrated platform where stakeholders, such as law enforcement agencies, banks, financial intermediaries and others, are connected to prevent the outflow of money from the system, as money once out of the system becomes untraceable and non-retrievable. The portal enables requests to be sent to identified stakeholders by law enforcement authorities to block financial transactions or create a lien on the disputed money while the money is with them.

The article has been written against the backdrop of Herbert Packer’s two models of the criminal process, describing two competing goals that underlie criminal legal regimes: the crime-control model and the due process model. As crime is committed in cyberspace and technology is developed to counter it, often the urgency of resolving the crime and the opacity surrounding the technology, blur the lines of permissible and impermissible actions. The article argues that this technical solution created for tackling digital financial frauds is far from perfect, and, at best, a quick fix while larger, looming questions remain unanswered. Through a series of high court cases, the article brings forth how due process requirements are often sidelined in favour of the more immediate goal of crime control in the guise of this PoliceTech, even as questions of the efficiency of the tech remain unaddressed. Nonetheless, the article recommends reforms to ensure the safe deployment of PoliceTech in India, minimize public harm and create accountability for misuse of harms arising from technology.
The Efficacy of Emerging Ultrasound Applications in Characterizing Vulnerable Carotid Plaques
Authors: Baun Jim
Published: January 2025

The emergence and integration of nonconventional ultrasound applications into the vascular diagnostic armamentarium offers the opportunity for answering a long-standing question about the morphological makeup of focal carotid atherosclerotic lesions, that is, is this particular plaque vulnerable or not? Vulnerable lesions are those which, based on their histological and morphological features, predispose a patient to an increased risk of a cerebral ischemic event (CIE) secondary to plaque or thrombus embolization. The ability to reliably differentiate plaque types using readily available noninvasive imaging methods facilitates risk stratification in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Improved identification of at-risk lesions makes more targeted patient management and/or interventional decisions possible. Three emerging ultrasound applications that have demonstrated efficacy in offering this enhanced diagnostic capability are point shear wave elastography (pSWE), contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and microvascular ultrasound imaging (MUI).
Disrupting of IGF2BP3-stabilized CLDN11 mRNA by TNF-α increases intestinal permeability in obesity-related severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Lin Lihui , Lin Yansong , Guo Xianwen , Zhang Ruoyi , Ling Xin , Zhang Zewen , Lin Rong , Ding Zhen
Published: January 2025

Background

Obesity is a significant risk factor for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and is typically associated with increased intestinal permeability. Understanding the role of specific molecules can help reduce the risk of developing SAP. Claudin 11 (CLDN11), a member of the Claudin family, regulates the permeability of various internal barriers. However, the role and mechanism of CLDN11 in the intestinal permeability of obesity-related SAP remain unclear.

Methods

We evaluated intestinal permeability and the expression of CLDN11 in experimental obesity-related SAP. A recombinant adeno-associated virus carrying CLDN11 was used to treat experimental obesity-related SAP. The interaction between CLDN11 mRNA and insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) protein was predicted through bioinformatics analysis and validated by RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assay. Additionally, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) treatment in Caco-2 cells was conducted, and the IGF2BP3/CLDN11 axis was detected. Moreover, we conducted anti-TNFα therapy and evaluated intestinal permeability and pancreatic inflammation in experimental obesity-related SAP.

Results

Downregulation of CLDN11 was observed in the intestinal epithelial cells of experimental obesity-related SAP. When the expression of CLDN11 in intestinal epithelial cells of experimental obesity-related SAP was increased exogenously, intestinal epithelial permeability and pancreatic inflammation were relieved. Overexpression of CLDN11 reduced the paracellular permeability of Caco-2 monolayer cells, while knockdown of CLDN11 increased it. IGF2BP3 bound to and regulated the stability of CLDN11 mRNA. TNF-α treatment downregulated IGF2BP3 and CLDN11 in vitro. Anti-TNFα therapy reduced intestinal permeability, alleviated pancreatitis, and improved the expression of IGF2BP3 and CLDN11 in intestinal epithelial cells in experimental obesity-related SAP.

Conclusion

CLDN11 regulates intestinal permeability in obesity-related SAP. Mechanistically, an increase in TNF-α impaired the stability of IGF2BP3-dependent CLDN11 mRNA in obesity-related SAP.
Identification of Pratylenchus coffeae as a causal agent of root rot disease in Sorghum bicolor in China
Authors: Qin Ling , Lin Fan-kang , Lv Yun-long , Tai Ze-Lin , Zhang Xu , Li Hong-lian , Li Yu , Wang Ke
Published: January 2025

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is an important food and feed crop. Root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) are a group of pathogenic nematodes that cause severe economic losses in various food and cash crops. This study identified diseased sorghum plants with stunted growth and brown, rotting roots in sorghum fields in Shanxi Province, China. A species of root-lesion nematode was isolated by modified Baermann funnel method and named the GL-1 population. Afterward, the GL-1 population of root-lesion nematodes was identified as P. coffeae through a combination of morphological, rDNA-ITS and rDNA-28 S D2-D3 region techniques for molecular biological identification. We also conducted greenhouse experiments to assess the parasitism and pathogenicity of GL-1 and four other P. coffeae populations on sorghum through pot inoculation. At 60 days after inoculation, the results indicated that all five populations of P. coffeae were capable of infecting and causing damage to the sorghum plants. Sorghum is a suitable host for P. coffeae (with a reproduction factor > 1). Moreover, compared with those in the control group, the aboveground fresh weights and root fresh weights of sorghum in the five inoculation groups were significantly lower, and brown spots or even necrotic rot appeared on the roots. All five populations were highly pathogenic to sorghum, but there were significant differences in pathogenicity among the populations. This study provides a scientific basis for identifying and detecting root-lesion nematodes in sorghum.
The cell colony development is connected with the accumulation of embryogenesis-related proteins and dynamic distribution of cell wall components in in vitro cultures of Fagopyrum tataricum and Fagopyrum esculentum
Authors: Zaranek Magdalena , Pinski Artur , Skupien-Rabian Bozena , Jankowska Urszula , Godel-Jedrychowska Kamila , Sala-Cholewa Katarzyna , Nowak Katarzyna , Kurczyńska Ewa , Grzebelus Ewa , Betekhtin Alexander
Published: January 2025

Background

Due to the totipotency of plant cells, which allows them to reprogram from a differentiated to a dedifferentiated state, plants exhibit a remarkable regenerative capacity, including under in vitro culture conditions. When exposed to plant hormones, primarily auxins and cytokinins, explant cells cultured in vitro can undergo differentiation through callus formation. Protoplast culture serves as a valuable research model for studying these processes in detail. This knowledge is particularly relevant for improving common and Tartary buckwheat species. To gain deeper insights into the stages of cell development from protoplasts—such as cell division, cell colony formation, and microcalli development—we focused on analyzing proteomes, cell wall composition, and changes in the expression profiles of selected genes in Fagopyrum protoplast cultures.

Results

The results demonstrate a significant accumulation of somatic embryogenesis-related proteins like late embryogenesis abundant proteins (embryogenic protein-DC-8-like, seed biotin-containing protein) and endochitinases during the developmental path of protoplast-derived cultures. Additionally, we noted an extensive increase in seed storage proteins like vicilin, oleosins, and seed biotin-containing proteins during the culture. Investigation of somatic embryogenesis-associated transcription factors revealed massive up-regulation of LEAFY COTYLEDON1 for the 50th day of F. tataricum protoplast-derived cultures. However, for BABY BOOM, the transcription factor was noted to be down-regulated during the development of cell colonies. Furthermore, we demonstrated the variable distribution of cell wall components like pectin side chains, arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) and extensins (EXTs), indicating the reorganisation of cell wall composition during the culture period.

Conclusions

This study revealed changes correlating with regaining embryogenic competence during the development of Fagopyrum protoplast-derived cell colonies. Our findings revealed variable expression levels of genes and proteins associated with somatic embryogenesis. This analysis identified an increase in seed storage proteins that play a significant role in the somatic somatic embryogenesis pathway of regeneration. Furthermore, the relationship between transcription factors and these processes seems to be connected with regaining somatic cells’ totipotency and promoting embryogenic competence of protoplast-derived cell colonies. Additionally, we observed dynamic changes in cell wall composition during the development of the protoplast-derived cultures.

Clinical trial number

Not applicable.
Uncoded chronic kidney disease prevalence in secondary care: a retrospective audit with population health implications
Authors: Dolan Samantha , Anand Ajitesh , Kalra Philip A. , Stewart Stuart
Published: January 2025

Background

One million patients are estimated to have undiagnosed chronic kidney disease (CKD) in England. Clinical coding in CKD is associated with improved management and lower acute kidney injury (AKI), unscheduled care and mortality risk. Primary care’s role in coding CKD is well documented. However, there is scant evidence on CKD coding quality in secondary care. Primary aims: to measure total and coded/uncoded CKD prevalence on admission and discharge, and conversion of uncoded to coded CKD in secondary care. Secondary aims: to map coding status to kidney health inequality themes and to measure predictors of coding, death and AKI.

Methods

Retrospective audit in an acute medical hospital ward in England, April 2022-February 2023. Descriptive statistics include counts/percentages for categorical data, prevalence estimates and rates. Logistic regression measured significant predictors (p = < 0.05) of receiving a diagnostic CKD code on discharge, risk of death, and of AKI.

Results

Uncoded CKD prevalence using discharge estimated GFR (eGFR) was 58.7% (n = 283), equating to 1.1 cases uncoded CKD per bed/month and 13.7 cases uncoded CKD per bed/year. Conversion of uncoded to coded CKD at discharge was only 6.7%. Hypertension and advanced CKD were significant predictors of coding CKD on discharge in uncoded patients. Age, sex, indices of multiple deprivation, and AKI were significant predictors of death during admission. Advanced CKD was a significant predictor of AKI during admission.

Conclusions

Uncoded CKD is highly prevalent in an acute medical hospital ward highlighting opportunity to improve coding in another part of the health system in addition primary care.
Socioeconomic disparities in child malnutrition: trends, determinants, and policy implications from the Kenya demographic and health survey (2014 - 2022)
Authors: Okutse Amos O. , Athiany Henry
Published: January 2025

Background

Child malnutrition remains a critical public health problem, with socioeconomic factors playing a significant role. Socioeconomic factors include household income, parental education, and access to healthcare, which influence a child’s nutritional status. Despite overall progress in reducing under-five child malnutrition in Kenya, disparities persist. This paper analyzes changes, and determinants of child malnutrition, contributions of these determinants to health inequality, and their potential use in the screening for chronic malnutrition in children under five years.

Methods

We use data from the Kenyan Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS 2014 and 2022) and analyze malnutrition using three indicators: Stunting, underweight, and wasting. The determinants of malnutrition are analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Trends in socioeconomic inequality are analyzed using concentration indices and visualized using concentration curves. Wagstaff decomposition is used to explore the contributions of determinants to inequality in child malnutrition. We investigate diagnostic utility using sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and area under the ROC curve.

Results

Socioeconomic inequality in under-five child malnutrition increased between 2014 and 2022, with children from the poorest socioeconomic quintiles being disproportionately affected. A child’s age (in months) (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.01; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.01 – 1.02), being born to a household in the poorest socioeconomic quintile (AOR = 2.67; 95%CI: 1.92 - 3.72), and sex (male) (AOR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.35 – 1.67) were associated with an increased risk of stunting. The mother’s age, sex of the child (male), and household socioeconomic status (poorest) was associated with an increased risk of being underweight and wasted, whereas residence was associated with an increased risk of wasting alone after adjusting for potential confounders. A household’s socioeconomic status was the largest contributing factor to health inequality. Sensitivity, specificity, and AUC values were 67.4% (95% CI: 66.4% – 68.4%), 50.6% (95%CI: 50.0% - 51.1%), and 0.59 (95%CI: 0.58 – 0.60), respectively, when using socioeconomic status as a screening tool for stunting.

Conclusion

Socioeconomic disparities are a major barrier to reducing child malnutrition in Kenya, with children from lower socioeconomic quintiles at a greater risk of stunting, underweight, or wasting. This study identifies a child’s sex, age, and household socioeconomic status as key predictors of malnutrition, highlighting the need to include these factors in public health interventions. Addressing these disparities with targeted strategies considering immediate health risks and underlying socioeconomic challenges is essential for equitably improving child health outcomes.