bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine mapping and characterization of rust resistance genes Lr53 and Yr35 introgressed from Aegilops species
Authors: Xu Binyang , Shen Tao , Chen Hong , Li Hongna , Rehman Shams ur , Lyu Shikai , Hua Lei , Wang Guiping , Zhang Chaozhong , Li Kairong , Li Hao , Lan Caixia , Chen Guo-Yue , Hao Ming , Chen Shisheng
Published: February 2024

Wheat leaf rust and stripe rust are damaging fungal diseases of wheat worldwide. Breeding for resistance is a sustainable approach to control these two foliar diseases. In this study, we used SNP analysis, sequence comparisons and cytogenetic assays to determine that the chromosomal segment carrying Lr53 and Yr35 was originated from Ae. longissima or Ae. sharonensis or their derived species. In seedling tests, Lr53 conferred strong resistance against all five Chinese Pt races tested, and Yr35 showed effectiveness against Pst race CYR34 but susceptibility to race CYR32. Using a large population (3,892 recombinant gametes) derived from plants homozygous for the ph1b mutation obtained from the cross 98M71 × CSph1b, both Lr53 and Yr35 were successfully mapped to a 6.03 Mb telomeric region of chromosome arm 6BS in the Chinese Spring reference genome v1.1. Co-segregation between Lr53 and Yr35 was observed within this large mapping population. Within the candidate region, several nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat (NLR) genes and protein kinases were identified as candidate genes. Marker pku6B3127 was completely linked to both genes and accurately predicted the absence or presence of alien segment harboring Lr53 and Yr35 in 87 tetraploid and 149 hexaploid wheat genotypes tested. We developed a line with a smaller alien segment (< 6.03 Mb) to reduce any potential linkage drag and demonstrated that it conferred resistance levels similar to those of the original donor parent 98M71. The newly developed introgression line and closely linked PCR markers will accelerate the deployment of Lr53 and Yr35 in wheat breeding programs.
Predicting the Neurological Outcome in Survivors of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation by Trans-cranial Doppler Measurment Values
Authors: soliman mohamed , Magdi Ahmed , Fatthy Moataz , Rostom Ahmed , Mostafa Rania , Azab Abdo Al
Published: February 2024

Background
Post-cardiac arrest brain injury is caused by insufficient cerebral blood flow which followed by reperfusion injury and manifested as global brain dysfunction. Neurologic outcome should be determined accurately by proving adequate restoration of the cerebral circulation and oxygen supply.
Aim of work:
Evaluate the Transcranial Doppler (TCD) measurements as a prognostic tool for neurological outcomes after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Methods
A prospective observational study includes 80 survivors of cardiac arrest with persistent coma after the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) admitted to the Critical Care medicine Department at Cairo University over 22 months. TCD parameters were measured at 24 and 72 h post-CPR and were analyzed compared to Cerebral Performance Category score (CPC).
Results
End diastolic velocity (EDV), Mean flow velocity (MFV) and pulsatility index (PI) measurements after 72 Hours of CPR showed significant correlation with neurologic outcome (P-value:<0.001, 0.021 and < 0.001, r: 0.79, 0.65 and 0.93 respectively). While, Peak systolic velocity (PSV) measurements after 24, 72 hours of CPR didn't show significant correlation with neurological outcome (P-value: 0.594 and 0.500 respectively). EDV, MFV & PI showed higher values in patients with favorable outcome in comparison to patients with bad outcome (21.84 vs. 13.46, 46.91 vs. 38.31 and 0.71 vs. 1.27).
Conclusion
TCD measurements can predict favorable neurological outcome after 72hrs of CPR via higher values of EDV, MFV and PI but this doesn’t apply earlier after 24 hrs of CPR.
Diurnal Variation in Anesthetic Recovery: Assessing Extubation Timelines Post Laparoscopic Appendectomy During Day or Night Inductions
Authors: Yang Zebin , Luo Ronghao , Liu Wenhai , Song Yali , Li Le
Published: February 2024

Background
The influence of diurnal variation on anesthetic drug metabolism and effectiveness is established, yet the impact on post-anesthetic extubation and intraoperative cardiac dynamics remains underexplored.
Objective
This investigation seeks to elucidate the impact of general anesthesia induction timing, specifically on extubation timelines and intraoperative vital sign fluctuations during laparoscopic appendectomies.
Methods
Employing a retrospective analysis approach, this study examines extubation timings in patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomies over a three-year period (2020–2022). Grouping was done based on anesthesia induction timings: a day group (06:00–18:00) and a night group (18:00–06:00). The primary outcome assessed was the variance in extubation times between daytime and nighttime anesthesia inductions. Secondary measures included the frequency of intraoperative complications like hypertension, hypotension, and bradycardia.
Results
Data analysis from 576 laparoscopic appendectomy cases indicated a significant prolongation of extubation times in the night group compared to the day group. Notably, diurnal variations did not significantly affect the incidence of perioperative hypotension, hypertension, or bradycardia.
Conclusion
This study reveals a notable correlation between the diurnal variation and extubation timming in laparoscopic appendectomy patients, suggesting implications for nocturnal anesthesia management. These insights are instrumental in shaping optimal anesthesia protocols for emergency surgical procedures performed at night.
Effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human embryonic development and clinical outcomes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tian Li , Sun Yiting , Jia Miaomiao
Published: February 2024

Objective
To investigate the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on embryonic development and clinical outcomes.
Methods
This retrospective analysis included 538 couples in December 2022. The couples were divided into two groups (COVID-19 group, n = 157; and non-COVID-19 [control] group, n = 381) according to whether one member of the couple had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 before oocyte retrieval. The general information, fertility rate, embryonic development and clinical outcomes were compared between the groups.
Results
There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. The rates of fertility, good-quality embryos and blastocyst formation were similar between the two groups. The separate effects of male or female infection on embryonic development were further analyzed. The IVF fertility rate was significant lower in the male COVID-19 group than in the control group (OR = 0.630, 95% CI = 0.510–0.776). In addition, the clinical pregnancy and live birth rate was significantly reduced in female patients who infected by SARS-CoV-2 compared to control group (OR = 0.018, 95% CI = 0.057–0.179).
Conclusion
This study shows that infection before oocyte retrieval does not have a clear negative effect on embryo outcomes, such as the rates of normal fertilization, good-quality embryos and blastocyst formation. However, infection before oocyte retrieval has negative effects on clinical outcomes in female patients.
The effect of Acacia eriolaba leaf meal inclusion on growth performance, blood parameters and methane gas emission in lambs fed diets containing ammoniated maize stover.
Authors: Chelopo Getrude Manakedi , Marume Upenyu
Published: February 2024

The study evaluated the effect of Acacia erioloba leaf meal in diets containing ammoniated maize stove on growth performance, methane emission and heath of growing lambs. Thirty-two female lambs were allocated to the following four dietary treatments: total mixed ration (TMR, control), 20% inclusion of untreated maize stover (UMS), 20% inclusion of ammoniated maize stover (AMS), and combined inclusion of 10% ammoniated maize stover and 10% Acacia erioloba leaves (AMSAL). Each treatment was replicated 8 times and a lamb in an individual pen was regarded as an experimental unit in a completely randomized design. Feed intake was higher (P < 0.05) in lambs fed the AMS and AMSAL diets compared to those fed UMS. Final body weights were higher in lambs fed the AMS and AMSAL diets. Both ADG and FCR were not affected (P > 0.05) by diet. In comparison with the AMS and AMSAL diets, the lambs fed the UMS diet had the highest (P < 0.05) Methane emission. Overall, lambs fed the control diets had the lowest methane gas emission. Hematological values were affected by diet with the AMSAL fed lambs having the highest (P < 0.05) MPV and PCT values. Furthermore, total albumin, amylase and total bilirubin were highest (P < 0.05) in lambs fed on the AMSAL diet. Lambs fed on AMS diet had the highest (P < 0.05) serum urea levels. It can be concluded that combined inclusion of ammoniated maize stover and Acacia leaves improved feed value and lamb performance when compared to the individual inclusion of both UMS and AMS.
A new and accurate approach to the Co2 haven hypothesis: The experience of the European Union and China
Authors: Avazdahandeh Somayeh
Published: February 2024

The pollution haven hypothesis (PHH) is defined as follows: A reduction in trade costs results in production of pollution-intensive goods shifting towards countries with easier environmental laws. The previous studies examined this hypothesis in the form of Kuznets' environmental hypothesis. In this way, they test the effect of foreign direct investment (FDI) on carbon emissions. However, this study investigates PHH from a new perspective. I will use Newton's gravity model to test this hypothesis. The basis of PHH is the difference in the environmental standards of the two business partners. One of the indicators used to measure the severity of a country's environmental laws is carbon emission intensity. The stricter the country's laws are, the lower the index value will be. In order to test the hypothesis, experimental data from China and OECD countries are used. China was as the pollution haven for the countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. I found that environmental laws of host and guest countries have different effects on FDI. In addition, transportation costs have a negative effect on the FDI flow. Finally, the research results confirm the hypothesis on gravity model.
Factors associated with glycemic control in patients with T2DM: evidence from a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Luo Wenting , Zhang Jiayu , Luo Yanxing , Wu Qiuwan , Chen Longfei , Liu Changqin , Lin Minqiang
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to analyze the factors influencing glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
MethodsBaseline data, encompassing basic information, lifestyle habits, and treatment of 305 T2DM patients from March 2021 to January 2023, were collected and analyzed using SPSS 26.0 software.
Results: Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified insulin therapy (OR=2.233, P=0.026) and regular clinic visits (OR=0.567, P=0.040) as independent factors influencing glycemic control. No observed interactions between the two variables were noted.
Conclusion: History of insulin therapy and regular clinic visits were significantly and independently associated with glycated hemoglobin control in T2DM patients. Tailored interventions based on individual circumstances are recommended to optimize glycemic control.
CXCL10-dependent epithelial-vascular cross-talk for endothelial activation following Sars-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Chaillot Laura , Blondot Marie-Lise , Recordon-Pinson Patricia , Pellegrin Isabelle , Boizard-Moracchini Andrea , Sliusar Myroslava , Pujol Nadège , Andreola Marie-Line , Bonnet Fabrice , Recher Gaelle , Andrique Leatitia , Nassoy Pierre , Mathivet Thomas , Bikfalvi Andreas
Published: February 2024

The vasculature is heavily impacted by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conflicting results exist concerningthe mechanisms by which the SARS-CoV-2 virus acts on the vasculature. The presence of the virus within endothelial cells has been reported in patient samples. However, the ACE2 receptor wasnot detected in endothelial cells when analyzed by RNAseq analysis. Thus, how SARS-CoV-2 contributes to vascular inflammation and whether cross-talk between epithelial cells and endothelial cells is involvedare unclear. Therefore, we investigated the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and the vasculature using 2D and 3D in vitro models, as well asour previously developed 3D vesseloid model. We first determined the suitability of the 3D vesseloid model for our study and then assessed whether SARS-CoV-2 is able to directly infect endothelial cells. In the absence of ACE2 in endothelial cells, no infection was detected. When ACE2 was overexpressed in endothelial cells, low uptake of viral particles by endothelial cells was observed without efficient viral production. We then explored the possibility that an indirect effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection involvesepithelial-endothelial cellcross-talk. After infection of the epithelial cells, a significant inflammatory response was detected in the endothelial cells. Furthermore, we investigated the cytokines possibly implicated and identified CXCL10 as the most highly expressed proinflammatorycytokine and explored its function in this context. Finally, the clinical relevance of our findings was confirmed by evaluating CXCL10 and alternative cytokine dosages in blood samples fromSARS-CoV-2-infected patients, which were validated in silico in an independent patient cohort.
Additive Manufacturing Based On Pulsed GMAW With Stainless Steel 308L - A Method for Parameter Definition and Characterization of Metallic Transfer Modes
Authors: Ribeiro Túlio José Bernardes , Coelho Fagner Guilherme Ferreira , Arias Ariel Rodríguez , Rezende Rogério Ferreira
Published: February 2024

The use of the GMAW-P process shows promise in expanding the possibilities of metal additive manufacturing due to its high deposition rates, lower material costs compared to other processes, and due to its ability to provide better control over heat input and melt pool during operation. Since the droplet detachment mode is an important factor for process stability, further investigation is justified regarding the impact of the different modes on the formation of deposited material layers. In order to facilitate parameter selection for this and other research related to droplet detachment conditions with stainless steel 308L, it was proposed to map the regions of One Drop per Pulse, Multiple Drops Per Pulse, and One Drop per Multiple Pulses. Furthermore, the aim is to validate the use of the detachment constant as a means to estimate the detachment condition for a specific set of peak current and peak time. To perform this mapping, a high-speed camera was used to visually validate the droplet detachment modes obtained by varying the peak time and peak current. The results allowed the determining intervals for each of the three droplet detachment modes. It was also observed that the detachment constant can be a good approximation for the phenomenon, provided the same wire, contact-tip-to-work distance, shielding gas, and mean current are used.
Mental health outcomes and socio-demographics as determinants of students' academic performance and smartphone addiction at the University of Cape Coast
Authors: Ninnoni Jerry Paul , Ijere Ignatius , Iloma David O. , Armah-Mensah Isaac , Commey Isaac Tetteh , Agyemang Sampson Opoku , Nsatimba Frederick , Attipoe Elliot Kojo
Published: February 2024

Objectives
Smartphone addiction is a significant mental health concern that affects students’ academic performance, with attendant consequences on their psychological well-being, and yet only a handful of empirical research has been conducted on this area in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study, therefore, assessed mental health outcomes and socio-demographics as determinants of students' academic performance and smartphone addiction among students.
Methods
Employing a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study design, purposive sampling was used to recruit 227 School of Nursing and Midwifery students. The study variables were measured with the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Smartphone Addiction Scale.
Results
The results showed that 89 (39.2%) male and 138 (60.8%) female nursing students participated in the study. Employing descriptive statistics, we found a 43.6% prevalence of smartphone addiction. Pearson correlations showed significant associations between mental health outcomes and smartphone addiction. Utilising multi-linear regressions, socio-demographic factors and mental health outcomes did not jointly predict smartphone addiction, whereas mental health outcomes independently predicted smartphone addiction. Hierarchical regressions revealed that student’s socio-demographics and mental health outcomes significantly influenced their academic performance, particularly for variables such as ‘gender’, ‘age’, ‘level of study’ and ‘mental health outcomes’. Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) revealed that age, level of study, marital status and mental health outcomes reported main and interaction effects on academic performance and smartphone addiction.
Conclusion
The study observed that smartphone addiction is remarkably high among students and should be addressed, while concerted efforts should be made to address depression, anxiety and stress among students, which pushes them into addictive behaviours. Recommendations for clinicians, educationists, social media experts and information technology professionals were drawn for positive coping, adjustment, and well-being.
Effects of Immunotherapy on Quality-of-Life Outcomes in Patients with Gastroesophageal Cancers: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Gupta Kush , Roy Arya Mariam , Attwood Kristopher , Nipp Ryan David , Mukherjee Sarbajit
Published: February 2024

Background
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer care, with increasing data demonstrating improved survival outcomes using ICIs among patients with advanced gastroesophageal cancer (GEC). ICIs are also associated with a lower incidence of grade ≥ 3 adverse events (AEs) compared to chemotherapy, suggesting that ICIs may have favorable effects on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This meta-analysis sought to evaluate the effects of ICIs on the HRQoL of patients with advanced GEC.
Methods
We conducted an online bibliographic search on Medline via PubMed using MeSH-based terms to retrieve randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of ICIs on HRQoL in patients with advanced GEC (we searched for all studies between 2018–2021). We included RCTs that incorporated ICIs as part of the intervention arm either as monotherapy (first- or second-line) or as a combination therapy (first-line) with another ICI or chemotherapy. We combined the HRQoL measures into a meta-analysis using standard random effects models, from which estimates of the average mean difference (MD) were obtained with 95% confidence intervals. We assessed heterogeneity of the study outcomes using the Q and I2 statistics.
Results
We identified 11 phase-3 RCTs that met inclusion criteria, with a mean enrollment of 820 patients. Eight RCTs had ICI plus chemotherapy combination in the intervention arm, three had ICIs as monotherapy, and one had doublet ICI therapy in the intervention arm. All RCTs had chemotherapy for the control arm. Collectively, trials reported 37 HRQoL measures using 5 different HRQoL tools. The pooled analysis favored the intervention over the control arm in terms of Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Esophageal (FACT-E) scores [MD 2.7 (95% CI 0.1 to 5.3), p < 0.041]. In a subgroup analysis of eight RCTs comparing combination therapy with ICIs plus chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone, the effect estimates favored the ICI arm regarding the FACT-E [MD 2.7 (95% CI 0.1 to 5.3), p < 0.041] and the EORTC QLQ-OES18 pain scale [MD -2.2 (95% CI -4.3 to -0.2), p < 0.030]. Likewise, the effect estimates favored ICIs monotherapy arm over chemotherapy alone regarding QLQ-STO22 hair loss subscale [MD -23.2 (95% CI -29.7 to -16.7), p < 0.001], QLQ-STO22 dysphagia subscale [MD 6.7 (95% CI 1.7 to 11.7), p = 0.009], EQ-5D pain scale [MD 6.9 (95% CI 2.9 to 10.9), p < 0.001], and QLQ-OES18 saliva subscale [MD 5.8 (95% CI 0.1 to 11.6), p = 0.046].
Conclusions
In this meta-analysis, we found that the inclusion of ICIs for advanced GEC yielded better HRQoL outcomes than chemotherapy alone. Further research on the impact of ICIs on HRQoL is needed, with increasing evidence that ICIs improve survival outcomes in patients with advanced GEC.
Differential Analysis of Venous Sinus Diameters: Unveiling Vascular Alterations in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: TUNÇ Abdulkadir , DANIŞAN Gürkan , TAYDAŞ Onur , KARA Ahmet Burak , ÖNCEL Samet , ÖZDEMİR Mustafa
Published: February 2024

Background
This study aims to explore the relationship between venous sinus diameters and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to understand potential vascular alterations in MS patients compared to a control group. It seeks to determine if these alterations correlate with disease characteristics such as duration, lesion types, and disability scores.
Methods
The study included 79 MS patients, diagnosed according to the 2017 McDonald criteria, and 67 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. MRI scans using a 1.5 Tesla system provided measurements of superior sagittal sinus, right and left transverse sinus, sinus rectus, and venous structures. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, employing Independent Sample T-Test, ANOVA, Chi-Square, and Pearson Correlation Analysis, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results
The study identified significant differences in venous sinus diameters between MS patients and the control group, with MS patients exhibiting larger diameters. Specifically, patients with brainstem and spinal lesions showed larger diameters in certain sinus regions. No significant correlations were found between venous sinus diameters and demographic factors, EDSS scores, or lesion counts. However, a significant increase in perivenular lesions was noted in patients with longer disease durations.
Conclusions
The findings indicate notable vascular alterations in MS patients, particularly in venous sinus diameters, suggesting a potential vascular component in MS pathology. The lack of correlation with conventional clinical and MRI metrics highlights the complexity of MS pathology. These insights underscore the need for further research, particularly longitudinal studies, to elucidate the role of venous changes in MS progression and their potential as therapeutic targets.
Maternal gastrointestinal nematode infection alters hippocampal neuroimmunity, promotes synaptic plasticity, and improves resistance to direct infection in offspring.
Authors: Noel Sophia C. , Madranges Jeanne F. , Gothié Jean-David M. , Ewald Jessica , Milnerwood Austen J. , Kennedy Timothy E. , Scott Marilyn E.
Published: February 2024

The developing brain is vulnerable to maternal bacterial and viral infection which induce strong inflammatory responses in the mother that are mimicked in the offspring brain, resulting in irreversible neurodevelopmental defects, and associated cognitive and behavioural impairments. In contrast, maternal infection with the immunoregulatory murine intestinal nematode, Heligmosomoides bakeri, upregulates expression of genes associated with long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic networks in the brain of neonatal uninfected offspring, and enhances spatial memory in uninfected juvenile offspring. As the hippocampus is involved in spatial navigation and sensitive to immune events during development, here we assessed hippocampal gene expression, LTP, and neuroimmunity in three-week-old uninfected offspring born to H. bakeri infected mothers. Further, as maternal immunity shapes the developing immune system, we assessed the impact of maternal H. bakeri infection on the ability of offspring to resist direct infection. In response to maternal infection, we found an enhanced propensity to induce LTP, consistent with RNA-seq data indicating accelerated development of glutamatergic synapses in offspring, relative to those from uninfected mothers. Hippocampal RNA-seq analysis of offspring of infected mothers revealed increased expression of genes associated with neurogenesis, gliogenesis, and myelination. Furthermore, maternal infection improved resistance to direct infection of H. bakeri in offspring, correlated with transfer of parasite-specific IgG1 to their serum. Hippocampal immunohistochemistry and gene expression suggest Th2/Treg biased neuroimmunity in offspring, recapitulating peripheral immunoregulation of H. bakeri infected mothers. These findings indicate maternal H. bakeri infection alters peripheral and neural immunity and hippocampal gene expression in uninfected offspring, in a manner that accelerates neural maturation to promote hippocampal LTP, neurogenesis, gliogenesis, and myelination.
WITHDRAWN: Impact pressure characteristics of carbon dioxide phase transition fracturing technique
Authors: Yu bingzhen , Niu Shuaishuai , Zhou Shengtao , Lei Yu , He Zhijian , Luo Xuedong
Published: February 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Enhanced Brain Connectivity and Hemodynamic Stability in Canine Stroke Models Treated with Flow Augmentation Therapies: A Resting-State fMRI Study
Authors: Warioba Chisondi S. , Carroll Timothy J. , Christoforidis Gregory
Published: February 2024

The acute phase of ischemic stroke presents a critical window for therapeutic intervention, where novel approaches such as hyper-acute cerebral flow augmentation offer promising avenues for neuroprotection. In this study, we investigated the effects of two such therapies, NEH (a combination of norepinephrine and hydralazine) and Sanguinate (pegylated bovine carboxyhemoglobin), on resting-state functional connectivity, global mean signal (GMS), and blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) time lag in a pre-clinical canine model of stroke via permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (total of n = 40 IACUC-approved mongrel canines randomly split into control/natural history and two treatment groups). Utilizing group independent component analysis (ICA), we identified and examined the integrity of sensorimotor and visual networks both pre-and post-occlusion, across treatment and control groups. Our results demonstrated that while the control group exhibited significant disruptions in these networks following stroke, the treatment groups showed remarkable preservation of network integrity. Voxel-wise functional connectivity analysis revealed less pronounced alterations in the treatment groups, suggesting maintained neural connections. Notably, the treatments stabilized GMS, with only minimal reductions observed post-occlusion compared to significant decreases in the control group. Furthermore, BOLD time-lag unity plots indicated that NEH and Sanguinate maintained consistent hemodynamic response timing, as evidenced by tighter clustering around the line of unity, suggesting a potential neuroprotective effect. These findings were underscored by robust statistical analyses, including paired T-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests, which confirmed the significance of the connectivity changes observed. The correlation of BOLD time-lag variations with functional outcomes highlighted the clinical relevance of these neuroimaging parameters in evaluating the impact of stroke and the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Our study supports the inclusion of NEH and Sanguinate in stroke treatment protocols and suggests their potential to extend the therapeutic window and improve patient outcomes.
Evaluation of an E-learning Platform Promoting Electronic Personal Health Record Competence: A Pilot Study in Older Adults
Authors: Perotti Luis , Stamm Oskar , Ferizaj Drin , Dietrich Michael , Buchem Ilona , Müller-Werdan Ursula
Published: February 2024

Background
Electronic personal health records (ePHRs) are an important component in the increasing digitalization of healthcare. Access barriers can arise, especially for older adults, with limited experience in using digital systems. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of using an interactive microlearning-based e-learning platform on older adults’ competencies in dealing with the ePHR.
Methods
To examine the effects of e-learning platform use on competencies, a pilot study was conducted with two study arms. One arm consisted of young-old adults (YOA) aged 50 to 64 years and the other of older adults (OA) aged 65 years and over. Both groups used the learning platform for one week. Participants’ ePHR knowledge (12-item questionnaire) and usage skills (completion time for three ePHR tasks) were measured pre- and post-intervention. The intention to use (ITU) the ePHR was surveyed using a Technology Usage Inventory subscale. The usability of the platform was assessed using the System Usability Scale.
Results
In terms of knowledge, the OA increased the median value from 7.00 to 9.00 (p = .019, r = .63) and the YOA increased the median value from 7.00 to 10.00 (p = .001, r = .86). In relation to skills, the OA decreased the median value from 746.50 to 539.00 seconds (p = .002, r = .82) and the YOA decreased the median value from 487.00 to 351.00 seconds (p = .012, r = .67). No significant difference was present between the groups in terms of knowledge (p = .125) and skill acquisition (p = .144). The median ITU score decreased from 282.00 to 262.00 (p = .038, r = .39) across the entire study population and remained unchanged within the groups. The usability received a mean score of 64.04 for all study participants.
Conclusion
OA and YOA benefited from the use of the learning platform by increasing their ePHR competence (knowledge and skill) with a consistently high ITU the ePHR. The pilot study provided insights into the feasibility of using e-learning to promote ePHR competence. However, the usability of the learning platform should be improved for large-scale studies in the future.
Trial registration
German Clinical Trials Register (registration number: DRKS00031730), registered on 20/04/2023 - prospectively registered.
Perinatal Outcomes of Monochorionic and Dichorionic Twin Pregnancies Complicated by Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy: A 6-year Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Luo Shuang , Mao Jiayi , Wen Li , Chen Ya , Li Jiayin , You Wenti , Yang Yajun
Published: February 2024

Introduction Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is the most common pregnancy-related liver disorder and may cause adverse perinatal outcomes. However, few studies have reported differences in perinatal outcomes of monochorionic and dichorionic twin pregnancies complicated by ICP. These perinatal outcomes were assessed with a retrospective cohort study.
Methods This was a retrospective observational study of monochorionic and dichorionic twin pregnan-cies complicated by ICP. Cases were divided into the MCDA group and DCDA group, perinatal outcomes were compared, and predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes were evaluated.
Results In total, 363 twin pregnancies complicated by ICP (93 monochorionic (MC), 270 dichorionic (DC)) were included. Compared with DC twin pregnancies, MC pregnancies were characterized by younger age, lower prepregnancy weight and lower prepregnancy body mass index (p<0.05). Delivery of MC twins was more likely to occur between 34 and 37 weeks, averaging 34.87±2.42 gestational weeks. Additionally, both twins A and B in the MC group weighed less than those in the DC group (p<0.001). After adjustment for confounders, TBA>40 µmol/l (aOR=9.16, 95%CI:1.06, 30.93, p=0.029) was an independent risk factor for poor perinatal outcomes in MC twin pregnancies complicated by ICP, and TBIL>17.1 µmol/l (aOR=6.36, 95% CI: 1.63-24.92, p=0.008), AST>200 U/L (aOR=3.005, 95%CI: 1.32-6.87, p=0.009) and ALP>400 U/L (aOR=3.25, 95%CI: 1.12-9.45, p=0.031) were independent risk factors for adverse perinatal outcomes in DC twin pregnancies.
Conclusions Our results suggest that some liver function biochemical indicators can predict poor foetal outcomes in twin pregnancies complicated by ICP. More focus is needed on the monitoring of predelivery liver functional biochemical indexes in pregnant women according to chorionicity complicated by ICP, to facilitate personalized antenatal management and improve neonatal outcomes.
The efficacy of modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and molecular techniques for detection of cryptosporidia in the stool of gastrointestinal cancer Sudanese patients
Authors: Abdullah Dafalla Sidig Mohamed Ali , Taha Qutoof Hashim , Taher Tayebalasma Mohamed Ahmed , Omer Esra Rodwan , Alrasheed Tagwa Hafiz Abdelkabeer , Abdalla Sababil Salih , Marjan Salah , Idris Alkhair Abd Almahmoud
Published: February 2024

Background:
Cryptosporidiosis diagnosis based on demonstration of the parasite microscopically in the stool through modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN) or auramine phenol staining techniques. The primary goal of this study was to compare between the efficacy of cryptospridia antigen detection potential in the fecal specimens using ELISA and Oocyst detection by MZN staining methods and molecular techniques for the diagnosis of human cryptosporidiosis among some Sudanese patients with gastrointestinal cancer. One hundred and eighty-one patients suspected of having gasterointestinal cancer based on their clinical presentation were enrolled in this study. Cryptosporidiosis was diagnosed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). MZN staining was conducted for fresh stool samples to detect Cryptosporidium Oocyst.
Results:
Of 181 cancer suspected patients, 55 (30.5%) were confirmed as having gastrointestinal cancer. Of the 55 cancer patients 41(74.5%) were confirmed as having colorectal cancer, 7 (12.7%) small intestine cancer, 4(7.3%) liver cancer, 3(5.5%) esophageal cancer. Of the confirmed cancer patients MZN identified 24 (43.6%) and ELISA identified 31(56.4%) as having cryptospridia Oocyst and antigens in their fecal samples, respectively. Based on PCR outcome, the infection rates was significantly higher in colorectal cancer patients than in other cancer patients (P = 0.02). Depending on the criteria of ‘true positive’ samples, sensitivity of MZN and ELISA was 81.06% and 94.25% respectively.
Conclusions:
Fecal antigen ELISA detection test has the advantage of accurate diagnosis of Cryptosporidiosis over MZN staining technique especially in immunocompromised patients.
How Do Stressful Life Events Affect Medical Students' Academic Adjustment? Parallel Mediating Mechanisms of Anxiety and Depression
Authors: GUO HUIBING , QIU CHEN
Published: February 2024

Background
Medical students frequently face challenges in academic adjustment, necessitating effective support and intervention. This study aimed to investigate the impact of stressful life events on medical students' academic adjustment, focusing on the mediating roles of depression and anxiety. It also differentiated the impacts between at-risk students (those with academic failures) and their peers respectively.
Methods
This case‒control study involved 320 at-risk medical students and 800 other students from a university in western China. Participants anonymously completed the scales of stressful life events, depression, anxiety, and academic adjustment. T-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and structural equation modeling were employed for statistical analysis.
Results
Depression and anxiety were significantly more prevalent in at-risk students (46.8% and 46.1%, respectively) than in controls (34.0% and 40.3%, respectively). Notably, at-risk students had poorer academic adjustment (t = 5.43, p < 0.001). For them, stressful life events significantly decreased academic adjustment through increased depression and anxiety (p < 0.001). Conversely, anxiety had a positive effect on academic adjustment in other students.
Conclusion
Targeted interventions focusing on depression and anxiety could reduce the negative impact of stressful life events on medical students’ academic adjustment. However, educators have to distinguish the differences between at-risk students and others.
Financial Development and Central Bank Bilateral Currency Swaps: Is there Trade Effect?
Authors: Mohammed Abdullahi Ahmed
Published: February 2024

The proper assessment and understanding of the financial system are at the core of a robust analysis of macroeconomic fundamentals (Svirydzenka, 2016). Bilateral currency swap enables countries to boost their liquidity access in the financial system for trade and financial transaction. Significantly, we examine the financial development of both China and its currency swap partners. We test our empirical model using data on financial development for a sample of 27 countries. We provide empirical evidence that currency swap is important for trade especially for countries with relatively low level of financial development. It is well documented that the differences in development amongst countries are substantial, and such differences are important in the determination of trade pattern. The level of financial development was proxied by the interaction term of disaggregated measure of financial development such access, depth, and efficiency each interacted with swaps. We provide empirical evidence that differential level of financial development can be a key determinant of whether a country can use currency swap lines for international trade. In rich countries, strong financial system promote trade, the opposite is the case in poorer ones. Perhaps, empirical tests on the influence of financial system and on trade remain on the research agenda especially looking at industry-level import and export data.
Does Interprofessional Operating Room Training Improve Clinical Skills? Results from a Multinational Assessment
Authors: Cohen Sari , Mosheiff Rami , Saban Mor , Shapira Yair , Yoram Weil
Published: February 2024

Objective: a quantitative comparative empirical study examined the effect of the AOTrauma Operating Room Personnel (AOT ORP) course on ORPs performance.
Methods: Conducted in 2018-2019, the study involved 266 ORPs from Israel, the UK, and Singapore. The study group (146 ORPs) underwent two rounds of tests: first, a comparison was made among the research group before and after the course, and second, a comparison was made with the control group (121 prospective AOT ORP course candidates after the study period from Israel). We used a practical test developed specifically for this study focusing on plastic bone models to assess type-C ankle fracture fixation.
Results: Pre-course, the study group achieved medium-range scores and the control group mainly scored low scores. Post-course, the study group's performance significantly improved, reaching medium-high to high levels. Statistical analysis indicated a significant improvement compared to both the control group (p<0.01) and their own pre-course performance (p<0.01).
Conclusion: This study highlights the positive impact of the basic AOT ORP course on
the practical skills of nursing staff in orthopedic operating rooms. These results underscore the importance of AOT ORP course to enhance ORP's professional performance within the orthopedic operating room setting.
Minimum Four-Year Clinical Outcomes after On-Table Reconstruction Technique for Dubberley Type III in Coronal Shear Fractures of the Capitellum and Trochlea: a report of 10 patients
Authors: Koh Il-Hyun , Hong Jung Jun , Kang Ho-Jung , Choi Yun-Rak , KIM Ji-Sup
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Comminuted coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus represent rare injuries and are difficult to treat, especially comminuted capitellum and trochlear fractures (Dubberley Type III). The on-table reconstruction technique of comminuted articular fractures may be an option, although it has not been reported in the coronal shear fracture of the distal humerus. The aim of the present case series is to determine the functional and radiological outcomes of on-table reconstructed Dubberley III fractures.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted of 10 patients with Dubberley type III fractures in coronal shear fractures of the capitellum and trochlea who underwent an ‘on-table’ reconstruction technique between January 2009 and October 2019. All patients were evaluated using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons(ASES) score, Mayo Elbow Score Performance Index (MEPI) score and at least 4 years later.
Results
All cases achieved union. At the final follow-up, the mean range of elbow motion was 11.5°of flexion contracture and 131.9° of further flexion. The mean DASH score was 21.2 (5.7) points (range 13.3–32.5). The mean ASES score was 88.6 ± 7.4 (range, 77 to 100). The mean MEPI score was 87 (10) points (range 70–100). In complication, partial osteonecrosis of capitellum is developed in one patient. One patient had heterotopic ossification without functional impairment.
Conclusion
The on-table reconstruction technique can be a reliable option in the surgical treatment of complex distal humerus fractures. This technique allows anatomical reduction of comminuted capitellum and trochlea, with a low risk of avascular necrosis over 4 years of follow-up.
Level of evidence
Level IV, retrospective case series
Effect of form-stable phase change particle gradation on thermal conductivity of concrete
Authors: Zhang Yichao , Liang Jiatong , Li Xuan , Liu Tao , Liu Min , Wang Yanhui , Liu Zhicheng
Published: February 2024

When preparing form-stable phase change(FSPC) concrete, using FSPC particles to partially replace the fine aggregates can effectively improve the thermal conductivity of concrete. In this study, the influence of FSPC particle gradation on the thermal conductivity of FSPC concrete is investigated, and the relationship between the particle gradation and thermal conductivity of FSPC concrete is analyzed based on the fractal and grey correlation theory. The results show that the thermal conductivity of the FSPC concrete with 10, 20 and 30% fine aggregate replacement rate is 9.16, 13.12 and 28.31%lower than that of the ordinary concrete. Large size FSPC particles are more effective in reducing the thermal conductivity. Furthermore, in the fractal dimension range of 0.4924–1.6812, the FSPC particles have self-similarity. When the total amount of FSPC particles is the same, increasing the amount of FSPC particles of 4–5, 5–6 and 8–10 mm, reducing the amount of FSPC particles of 2–3, 3–4, 6–7 and 7–8 mm could effectively reduce the thermal conductivity of FSPC concrete.
Co-production workshops with families experiencing multiple and interacting adversities including parental mental health, substance use, domestic violence, and poverty: intervention insights and principles from mothers, fathers, and young people
Authors: Muir Cassey , Kedzior Sophie G. E. , Barrett Simon , McGovern Ruth , Kaner Eileen , Wolfe Ingrid , Forman Julia R.
Published: February 2024

Background
Clustering and co-occurring of family adversities, including mental health problems, substance use, domestic violence and abuse, as well as poverty can increase health and behavioural risks for children, which persist throughout the life course. Yet, interventions that acknowledge and account for the complex interactive nature of such risks are limited. This study aimed to develop intervention principles through exploring insights into the ways in which mothers, fathers, and young people who experience multiple and interacting adversities perceived an intervention may bring about positive change.
Methods
A series of six co-production workshops with mothers, fathers, and young people who experienced multiple and interacting adversities (n = 41) were iteratively conducted across two regions in England (London and North-East) by four researchers. Workshop content and co-production activities were informed by advisory groups. Data from facilitator notes and activities were analysed thematically, resulting in a set of intervention principles.
Results
The intervention principles highlighted that: (1) to reduce isolation and loneliness parents and young people wanted to be connected to services, resources, and peer support networks within their local community, particularly by a knowledgeable and friendly community worker; (2) to address feelings of being misunderstood, parents and young people wanted the development of specialised trauma informed training for practitioners and to have the space to build trusting, gradual, and non-stigmatising relationships with practitioners; and (3) to address the needs and strengths of individual family members, mothers, fathers, and young people wanted separate, tailored, and confidential support.
Conclusions
The current study has important implications for practice in supporting families that experience multiple and interacting adversities. The intervention principles from this study share common characteristics with other intervention models currently on offer in the United Kingdom, including social prescribing, but go beyond these to holistically consider the whole families’ needs, environments, and circumstances. There should be particular focus on the child’s as well as the mothers' and fathers' needs, independently of the family unit. Further refinement and piloting of the developing intervention are needed.
Eucalyptol (1, 8-cineole), a monoterpene oxide with potential for protecting soybean crops against insect pests and phytopathogenic fungi
Authors: Wagner Leandro Sebastian , Sequín Christian Javier , Perusset Sergio Andrés , Fernández Estrella Natalín , Pretti Joaquín , Campos-Soldini María Paula
Published: February 2024

Soybean (Glycine max), a pivotal global agricultural crop, faces significant economic losses from pests and phytopathogenic fungi. To address this, farmers often resort to synthetic pesticides, posing potential risks to health and the environment. In this context, eucalyptol stands out in agriculture for its toxicity to various insects and fungi, with minimal environmental and human health impacts. This study aimed to i) assess the insecticidal activity of eucalyptol against Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Epicauta atomaria Germar (Coleoptera: Meloidae), and its fungicidal activity against Cercospora kikuchii, Cercospora sojina, and Sclerotium rolfsii; and ii) explore the potential phytotoxic effect of eucalyptol on non-target soybean plants. Eucalyptol demonstrated good fumigant insecticidal activity against S. frugiperda 1st instar larvae (LC50 = 26.9 µL/L air) and E. atomaria adults (LC50 = 34.6 µL/L air), along with moderate fungicidal activity against C. kikuchii and C. sojina (mycelial inhibition halo diameters of 6.0 ± 0.0 mm and 10.0 ± 2.5 mm, respectively, at a concentration of 5 µL/disk). Importantly, eucalyptol exhibited no phytotoxic effects on soybeans. Its potential as a biopesticide for soybean crops, replacing synthetic alternatives, shows promise, though further studies are needed.