bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of PROMIS Neuropathic Pain Quality for Detection and Monitoring Neuropathic Pain in Heel Pain Patients
Authors: Joo Peter Y. , Lee Wonyong , Hoffman Samantha , Baumhauer Judith , Oh Irvin
Published: December 2023

Background:

Diagnosis and management of neuropathic pain (NP) in foot and ankle patients remain challenging. We investigated the plausibility of using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Neuropathic Pain Quality (PQ-Neuro) as an initial screening tool to detect NP and track the treatment effects.

Methods:

Patients with heel pain were prospectively recruited and grouped to no-NP, mild-NP, and severe-NP based on the initial PROMIS PQ-Neuro t scores. Pain Interference (PI), Physical Function (PF), and Self-Efficacy (SE) scores were evaluated at baseline, 30-day, and 90-day follow-up. Other factors such as age, smoking, body mass index (BMI), low back/neck pain, anxiety/depression, and medications were analyzed. Linear mixed modeling was used to assess the main effects of time and NP on PROMIS t scores, comparing minimal clinically important difference (MCID).

Results:

Forty-eight patients with mean age of 52.4 years were recruited. Using the PROMIS PQ-Neuro as the assessment tool, 33 patients (69%) were detected to have NP at baseline—23 (48%) mild and 10 (21%) severe. BMI was the only independent factor associated with NP ( P = .011). Higher baseline PQ-Neuro t score was significantly associated with higher follow-up PQ-Neuro ( P < .001), PI ( P = .005), and lower SE ( P = .04) across time points. Patients with NP showed lower PF at baseline with significantly less improvement in PF (3 vs 9.9, P = .035) and did not meet MCID.

Conclusion:

Baseline PROMIS PQ-Neuro ≥46 was significantly associated with worse PI and SE across all time points, with less clinically significant improvements in PF. Prevalence of NP in heel pain patients was high. The PROMIS PQ-Neuro may serve as a valuable tool for detection of NP and guiding clinical treatment decision pathways for heel pain patients.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, prospective cohort study.
Transcatheter Device Closure of Postsurgical Residual Left to Right Shunt Lesions in Children during the Immediate Postoperative Period
Authors: Kidwai Mohammad Moaaz , Abqari Shaad , Kamran Mohammad Mirza , Haseen Mohammad Azam , Yadav Mayank , Rabbani Shamayal , Ghazanfar Md
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Postoperative residual shunts in the form of ventricular septal defects (VSD) and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), if hemodynamically significant, can lead to symptoms of left ventricular volume overload and delayed recovery. The standard management is redo surgery, which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Device closure of such defects offers an alternative management strategy in selected cases. This study aims to examine the utility of device closure of residual left-to-right shunts in the pediatric age group in the immediate postoperative period.

Method

A retrospective analysis of hospital records was done from March 2018 to December 2022 to analyze the device closure in postoperative residual shunts. The success rate, complications, hospital length of stay, and midterm follow-up were analyzed.

Results

A total of four postoperative patients underwent VSD device closure and one patient underwent PDA device closure. The median age at transcatheter procedure was 6 years (range 3–10 years). The median time interval between the surgical procedure and the device closure procedure was 4 days (range 2–15 days). The indication for device closure was left ventricular volume overload in three patients and two patients had persistent pleural effusion. Qp:Qs was more than 1.5:1 in all five patients. The amplatzer duct occluder I (ADO-I) device was used in four patients and the ADO-II in one patient. There was no residual shunt post-deployment, with no major complication. The mean follow-up period was 2 years and all the patients had no residual shunt.

Conclusion

This case series, with its limitation of only five cases, has shown that device closure of hemodynamically significant residual postoperative left-to-right shunt lesions is an effective alternative strategy to redo surgery in older children. Further study is required with a larger sample size, and a longer follow-up is needed to evaluate its long-term safety and efficacy.
Central Compartment Atopic Disease and Its Surgical Outcomes: Olfactory Changes and Technical Notes
Authors: Huang Sheng-Kai , Hsieh Ching-Hung , Weng Ming-Chian , Lai Jen-Tsung , Shen Ping-Hung
Published: December 2023

Background

Central compartment atopic disease (CCAD) is a recent, novel phenotype of chronic rhinosinusitis. Only a few studies have assessed olfactory function in patients with CCAD.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate olfactory function changes after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) in patients with CCAD and proposed some surgical techniques to enhance the postoperative olfactory outcomes in such patients.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

We collected data from 23 patients (8 men and 15 women) with CCAD who underwent FESS performed by a surgeon in Taiwan, between June 2018 and December 2021. The demographic data, olfactory function, and serum and tissue eosinophil percentages of the included patients were analyzed. The Top International Biotech Smell Identification Test (TIBSIT; Top International Biotech, Taipei, Taiwan) was used to assess olfactory function.

Results

Of the 23 patients, most (95%) showed a positive reaction to aeroallergens, and 2 patients (8.7%) had asthma. Ten patients (43.5%) had peripheral eosinophilia, and 9 (39%) had eosinophilic nasal polyps. Moreover, the patients presented with variable olfactory dysfunction; the mean preoperative TIBSIT (pr-TIBSIT) score was 12.8 ± 2.3 (range: 0-43), whereas the mean postoperative TIBSIT (po-TIBSIT) score was 29.2 ± 1.9 (range: 16-44). The po-TIBSIT score was significantly better than the pre-TIBSIT score (paired t test, P < .0001). The improvement in olfactory function was not significantly correlated with the patients’ age, serum eosinophil percentages, and nasal polyp eosinophil counts.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that CCAD is significantly associated with olfactory dysfunction and that FESS can effectively improve olfactory function. To optimize postoperative olfactory outcomes, precise removal of polyps from the olfactory cleft without damaging the neuroepithelium is recommended. Our study provides valuable insights into the management of CCAD patients undergoing FESS and can guide surgical decision-making to achieve optimal olfactory function outcomes.
ROS2 Real-time Performance Optimization and Evaluation
Authors: Ye Yanlei , Nie Zhenguo , Liu Xinjun , Xie Fugui , Li Zihao , Li Peng
Published: December 2023

Real-time interaction with uncertain and dynamic environments is essential for robotic systems to achieve functions such as visual perception, force interaction, spatial obstacle avoidance, and motion planning. To ensure the reliability and determinism of system execution, a flexible real-time control system architecture and interaction algorithm are required. The ROS framework was designed to improve the reusability of robotic software development by providing a distributed structure, hardware abstraction, message-passing mechanism, and application prototypes. Rich ecosystems for robotic development have been built around ROS1 and ROS2 architectures based on the Linux system. However, because of the fairness scheduling principle of the default Linux system design and the complexity of the kernel, the system does not have real-time computing. To achieve a balance between real-time and non-real-time computing, this paper uses the transmission mechanism of ROS2, combines it with the scheduling mechanism of the Linux operating system, and uses Preempt_RT to enhance the real-time computing of ROS1 and ROS2. The real-time performance evaluation of ROS1 and ROS2 is conducted from multiple perspectives, including throughput, transmission mode, QoS service quality, frequency, number of subscription nodes and EtherCAT master. This paper makes two significant contributions: firstly, it employs Preempt_RT to optimize the native ROS2 system, effectively enhancing the real-time performance of native ROS2 message transmission; secondly, it conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the real-time performance of both native and optimized ROS2 systems. This comparison elucidates the benefits of the optimized ROS2 architecture regarding real-time performance, with results vividly demonstrated through illustrative figures.
Urinary orosomucoid and retinol binding protein levels as early diagnostic markers for diabetic kidney Disease
Authors: Zhou Xue-hong , Liu Shu-yan , Yang Bo , Li Yong-feng , Hou Bao-hua
Published: December 2023

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes, which has been a major cause of end-stage renal failure. Diagnosing diabetic kidney disease is important to prevent long-term kidney damage and determine the prognosis of patients with diabetes. In this study, we investigated the clinical significance of combined detection of urine orosomucoid and retinol-binding protein for early diagnosis of diabetic kidney disease.

Methods

We recruited 72 newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes and 34 healthy persons from August 2016 to July 2018 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Henan Polytechnic University (Jiaozuo Second People’s Hospital). Using the Mogensen grading criteria, participants were classified as having diabetes or diabetic kidney disease, and healthy persons constituted the control group. Urine orosomucoid and retinol-binding protein levels were measured and correlated with other variables.

Results

With the aggravation of renal damage, the level of urinary mucoid protein gradually increased. Urinary retinol-binding protein and microalbumin levels were significantly higher in the diabetes group than in control and nephropathy groups. Orosomucoid and retinol-binding protein might be independent risk factors for diabetes and diabetic kidney disease. Urinary orosomucoid significantly correlated with retinol-binding protein and microalbumin levels in the diabetic kidney disease group.

Conclusion

Elevated urine orosomucoid and retinol-binding protein levels can be detected in the early stages of type 2 diabetic kidney disease. Both of these markers are important for diabetic kidney disease detection and early treatment.
The impact of the baby friendly hospital initiative on healthcare utilization among newborns insured by Medicaid in Delaware
Authors: Harrison-Long Cecelia , Papas Mia , Paul David A.
Published: December 2023

Background

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative was created to enhance breastfeeding, although its impact on infant healthcare utilization is unclear. Breast feeding infants are vulnerable to readmission soon after birth secondary to dehydration and hyperbilirubinemia. Breastfeeding can also protect infants from unnecessary health care utilization later in life by preventing infection. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative on readmissions and emergency department utilization among Medicaid births in Delaware.

Methods

The study was a quasi-experimental design. Medicaid claims files were used to study births at five hospitals in Delaware born between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2018, and covered under Medicaid at time of birth. Three hospitals were designated Baby Friendly, two were not and served as controls. Outcomes included Emergency Department (ED) utilization and readmissions within 30 days and one-year of birth hospitalization. Exposure to the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative was determined by year and hospital of birth. Logistic regression and interrupted time series segmented regression analysis with controls were used to assess the effect of Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative on healthcare utilization.

Results

In total, 19,695 infants were born at five hospitals with 80% (15,939) born at hospitals that were designated Baby Friendly. ED utilization and readmissions over the 1st year of life for breastfeeding related diagnosis at the Baby Friendly hospitals occurred in 240 (1.5%) and 226 (1.4%) of infants, respectively. Exposure to the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative was associated with increased odds of all cause 30-day readmission (AOR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.03–1.28) but not readmissions over the 1st year of life. While 30-day ED visits did not change after BFHI, one-year ED visits were reduced (0.91, 95% CI 0.86–0.97). A significant negative trend was seen over time for ED utilization post BFHI compared to controls (B: -5.90, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

There was a small observed increase in the odds of all cause 30-day readmissions with no change in one-year readmissions after BFHI in Delaware. Although there were no observed changes in 30-day ED utilization, there was a reduction in one-year ED utilization following the implementation of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative in Delaware birth hospitals. Our data help to inform policy and decision making for statewide systems of care that may be used to support breast feeding.
Oral health knowledge is associated with oral health-related quality of life: a survey of first-year undergraduate students enrolled in an American university
Authors: Gardner Jenna , Huang Boyen , Ip Ryan H. L.
Published: December 2023

Background

Oral health knowledge forms part of oral health literacy that enables individuals to inform appropriate oral health decisions and actions. Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) characterizes self-perception of well-being influenced by oral health. This study aimed to examine the relationship between oral health knowledge and OHRQoL.

Methods

A random sample of 19-to-24-year-old first-year undergraduate students (n = 372) in Minnesota, United States of America was used. Each student was assessed with an online survey using the Comprehensive Measure of Oral Health Knowledge (CMOHK) and the OHRQoL items of the World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Questionnaire for Adults. Relationships between OHRQoL parameters and CMOHK together with other covariates were assessed using ordinal regression models. Associations between OHRQoL parameters were examined with the Kendall’s tau-b method.

Results

Dry mouth (45%) was the most reported OHRQoL issue. The respondents showing good oral health knowledge were less likely to experience speech or pronunciation difficulty (β=-1.12, p = 0.0006), interrupted sleep (β=-1.43, p = 0.0040), taking days off (β=-1.71, p = 0.0054), difficulty doing usual activities (β=-2.37, p = 0.0002), or reduced participation in social activities due to dental or oral issues (β=-1.65, p = 0.0078).

Conclusions

This study suggested a protective effect of better oral health knowledge on specific OHRQoL issues. In addition to provision of affordable dental services, university-wide oral health education can be implemented to improve OHRQoL in undergraduate students.
Effect of camel milk on lipid profile among patients with diabetes: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Khalid Narmin , Abdelrahim Dana N. , Hanach Nivine , AlKurd Refat , Khan Moien , Mahrous Lana , Radwan Hadia , Naja Farah , Madkour Mohamed , Obaideen Khaled , Khraiwesh Husam , Faris MoezAlIslam
Published: December 2023

The effects of camel milk (CM) intake on lipid profile among patients with diabetes remain controversial. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to calculate the effect size of CM intake on blood lipids among patients with type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) diabetes. We searched nine databases from inception until December 31, 2022, to identify relevant RCTs. Effect sizes for total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were calculated and expressed using mean differences (MD) and confidence intervals (CI). Of 4,054 retrieved articles, 10 RCTs (a total of 347 participants aged 8–70 years, 60.5% male) were eligible for inclusion. The pooled results from a random-effects model showed statistically significant decreases in TC (MD − 21.69, 95% CI: 41.05, − 2.33; p = 0.03; I2=99%), TG (MD − 19.79, 95% CI: −36.16, − 3.42; p=0.02, I2=99%), and LDL (MD −11.92, CI: −20.57, −3.26; p = 0.007, I2=88%), and a significant increase in HDL (MD 10.37, 95% CI, 1.90, 18.84; p=0.02, I2=95%) in patients with diabetes supplemented with CM compared with usual care alone. Subgroup analysis revealed that only long-term interventions (> 6 months) elicited a significant reduction in TC levels and TG levels. Consumption of fresh CM by patients with diabetes resulted in significant reductions in TC, TG, and LDL levels, while showing a significant increase in HDL levels. Patients with T1D elicited a more beneficial effect in lowering TC, LDL, and TG levels and in increasing HDL levels than their corresponding partners with T2D. In conclusion, long-term consumption of CM for patients with diabetes, especially those with T1D, could be a useful adjuvant therapy to improve lipid profile alongside prescribed medications. However, the high heterogeneity in the included studies suggests that more RCTs with larger sample sizes and longer intervention durations are required to improve the robustness of the available evidence.
Clinicians’ knowledge and understanding regarding multidisciplinary treatment implementation: a study in municipal public class III grade A hospitals in Southwest China
Authors: Zhong Xuemin , Zeng Xianbao , Zhao Longchao , TaoChen  , Min Xing , He Rui
Published: December 2023

Background

Previous studies have highlighted several problems in the implementation of multidisciplinary treatment (MDT) from a managerial perspective. However, no study has addressed these issues from clinicians’ perspective. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and address the existing problems in MDT by investigating what clinicians know and think about the implementation of MDT.

Methods

A self-designed questionnaire was used to evaluate clinicians’ understanding of MDT in municipal public Class III Grade A hospitals in Western China using a cross-sectional questionnaire study.

Results

Overall, 70.56% of clinicians knew the scope of MDT, and 63.41% knew the process of MDT. Professional title (P = 0.001; OR: 2.984; 95% CI: 1.590–5.603), participated in MDT (P = 0.017; OR: 1.748; 95% CI: 1.103–2.770), and application for MDT (P = 0.000; OR: 2.442; 95% CI: 1.557–3.830) had an impact on clinicians’ understanding of the scope of MDT. Professional title (P = 0.002; OR:2.446; 95% CI: 1.399–4.277) and participation in MDT (P = 0.000; OR: 2.414; 95% CI: 1.581–3.684) influenced clinicians’ understanding of the scope of MDT. More than 70% of the respondents thought that MDT was important in medical care. However, less than half of the clinicians who had attended MDT were currently satisfied with the results of MDT.

Conclusion

Most clinicians agreed that MDT was crucial in clinical care. However, more than a third of clinicians did not fully understand the scope and process of MDT. Appropriate measures are necessary to improve the quality of MDT. Our study suggests that healthcare administration should strengthen MDT education, especially for new and young clinicians.
Mendelian randomization analyses suggest a causal role for circulating GIP and IL-1RA levels in homeostatic model assessment-derived measures of β-cell function and insulin sensitivity in Africans without type 2 diabetes
Authors: Meeks Karlijn A. C. , Bentley Amy R. , Assimes Themistocles L. , Franceschini Nora , Adeyemo Adebowale A. , Rotimi Charles N. , Doumatey Ayo P.
Published: December 2023

Background

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that certain cytokines and hormones may play a role in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, studies on their role in T2D in humans are scarce. We evaluated associations between 11 circulating cytokines and hormones with T2D among a population of sub-Saharan Africans and tested for causal relationships using Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses.

Methods

We used logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and recruitment country to regress levels of 11 cytokines and hormones (adipsin, leptin, visfatin, PAI-1, GIP, GLP-1, ghrelin, resistin, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1RA) on T2D among Ghanaians, Nigerians, and Kenyans from the Africa America Diabetes Mellitus study including 2276 individuals with T2D and 2790 non-T2D individuals. Similar linear regression models were fitted with homeostatic modelling assessments of insulin sensitivity (HOMA-S) and β-cell function (HOMA-B) as dependent variables among non-T2D individuals (n = 2790). We used 35 genetic variants previously associated with at least one of these 11 cytokines and hormones among non-T2D individuals as instrumental variables in univariable and multivariable MR analyses. Statistical significance was set at 0.0045 (0.05/11 cytokines and hormones).

Results

Circulating GIP and IL-1RA levels were associated with T2D. Nine of the 11 cytokines and hormones (exceptions GLP-1 and IL-6) were associated with HOMA-S, HOMA-B, or both among non-T2D individuals. Two-stage least squares MR analysis provided evidence for a causal effect of GIP and IL-RA on HOMA-S and HOMA-B in multivariable analyses (GIP ~ HOMA-S β =  − 0.67, P-value = 1.88 × 10−6 and HOMA-B β = 0.59, P-value = 1.88 × 10−5; IL-1RA ~ HOMA-S β =  − 0.51, P-value = 8.49 × 10−5 and HOMA-B β = 0.48, P-value = 5.71 × 10−4). IL-RA was partly mediated via BMI (30-34%), but GIP was not. Inverse variance weighted MR analysis provided evidence for a causal effect of adipsin on T2D (multivariable OR = 1.83, P-value = 9.79 × 10−6), though these associations were not consistent in all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

The findings of this comprehensive MR analysis indicate that circulating GIP and IL-1RA levels are causal for reduced insulin sensitivity and increased β-cell function. GIP’s effect being independent of BMI suggests that circulating levels of GIP could be a promising early biomarker for T2D risk. Our MR analyses do not provide conclusive evidence for a causal role of other circulating cytokines in T2D among sub-Saharan Africans.
Severity of oxidative stress as a hallmark in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Bastin Alireza , Abbasi Fatemeh , Roustaei Narges , Abdesheikhi Jahangir , Karami Hossein , Gholamnezhad Mohammad , Eftekhari Mahdieh , Doustimotlagh Amirhossein
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Understanding the mechanisms and identifying effective treatments for the COVID-19 outbreak are imperative. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the antioxidant status and oxidative stress parameters as potential pivotal mechanisms in asymptomatic, non-severe, and severe COVID-19 patients.

Methods

This study is a case–control study that was performed on patients referred to the Persian Gulf Martyrs Hospital of Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran, from May 2021 to September 2021. A total of 600 COVID-19 patients (non-severe and severe group) and 150 healthy volunteers of the same age and sex were selected during the same period. On the first day of hospitalization, 10 ml of venous blood was taken from subjects. Then, hematological, biochemical, serological, antioxidant and oxidative stress parameters were determined.

Results

Our results indicated that ESR, CRP, AST, ALT, and LDH significantly augmented in the severe group as compared to the non-severe and normal groups (P ≤ 0.05). It was observed that the levels of FRAP, G6PD activity, and SOD activity significantly reduced in the non-severe patients in comparison with the severe and normal groups (P ≤ 0.05). We found that MDA content and NO metabolite markedly increased in severe patients as compared to the non-severe group.

Conclusions

Taken together, it seems that the balance between antioxidants and oxidants was disturbed in COVID-19 patients in favor of oxidant markers. In addition, this situation caused more aggravation in severe patients as compared to the non-severe group.
Does the provision of live black soldier fly and yellow mealworm larvae improve Muscovy duck welfare?
Authors: Gariglio Marta , Dabbou Sihem , Renna Manuela , Biasato Ilaria , Bellezza Oddon Sara , Meneguz Marco , Miazzo Raul Daniel , Bergagna Stefania , Colombino Elena , Macchi Elisabetta , Schiavone Achille
Published: December 2023

Background

The provision of environmental enrichments to Muscovy ducks could reduce the expression of the aggressive behaviors. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly (BSF) and yellow mealworm (YM) live larva provision on Muscovy duck performance, excreta corticosterone metabolites (ECM), behavior, and blood parameters.

Methods

A total of 126 3-day-old female Muscovy ducklings were allotted to 18 pens (6 replicates/treatment, 7 birds/pen) and assigned to 3 experimental treatments: a control group fed commercial feed, and two experimental treatments fed commercial feed plus the 5% (based on the expected daily feed intake, as fed basis) of BSF and YM live larvae (BSF and YM groups, respectively). A two-phase feeding program was applied: starter (from 3 to 31 days of age) and grower-finisher (from 32 to 55 days of age). The live weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were calculated. Larva consumption times were collected, and video recordings were performed during 3 periods (P) each day: the hour before (P1), during (P2), and after (P3) the larva administration. ECM were evaluated at 3, 31, and 55-day-old. Finally, the total red and white blood cell counts, serum proteins, lipids, and liver and renal function serum enzymes were evaluated on 12 birds/treatment.

Results

The experimental treatment did not affect the growth performance of the birds (P > 0.05). Larva consumption times were always similar between the two insect species, except at 14–18 days of age, were BSF larvae were consumed faster than YM larvae (P < 0.001). The birds showed less walking activity during P2, and preening behavior increased in YM birds during P3. The C birds increased the attack behavior over the weeks (P < 0.05). During weeks 1–3 the YM group reduced the attack frequency (P1 > P3; P < 0.05). Finally, the provision of live BSF and YM larvae significantly reduced the ECM at 55 days of age and the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Live BSF and YM larva supplementation in Muscovy duck improves duck welfare, without impairing birds’ growth performance.
Evaluation and modeling of students’ persistence and wheel-spinning propensities in formative assessments
Authors: Yang Albert C. M. , Ogata Hiroaki
Published: December 2023

Persistence represents a crucial trait in learning. A lack of persistence prevents learners from fully mastering their current skills and makes it difficult for them to acquire new skills. It further hinders the administration of effective interventions by learning systems. Although most studies have focused on identifying non-persistence and unproductive persistence behaviors, few have attempted to model students’ persistence propensity in learning. In the present study, we evaluated students’ persistence propensity in formative assessments by using an item response theory model with their attempt data. In addition, we modeled their wheel-spinning propensity. The students (N = 115) of first-level mathematics classes at a high school in Japan underwent the aforementioned formative assessments; their log data were collected. Persistence propensity was found to be correlated with frequency-related statistics, and wheel-spinning propensity was correlated with correctness-related statistics. However, persistence and wheel-spinning propensities were not correlated. A comparison of the students’ scores with various persistence and wheel-spinning propensities revealed that both traits considerably influenced their academic performance. The present study provides insights into the use of attempt data to evaluate various characteristics crucial for learning, which are otherwise difficult to evaluate.
Enhancing mesenchymal stem cells cultivated on microcarriers in spinner flasks via impeller design optimization for aggregated suspensions
Authors: Zhang Botao , Lu Qiaohui , Dai Gance , Zhou Yi , Ye Qian , Zhou Yan , Tan Wen-Song
Published: December 2023

During the ex vivo expansion of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) in a stirred tank bioreactor, the formation of cell–microcarrier aggregates significantly affects cell proliferation and physiological activity, making it difficult to meet the quantity and quality requirements for in vitro research and clinical applications. In this study, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations were used to investigate the effect of an impeller structure in a commercial spinner flask on flow field structure, aggregate formation, and cellular physiological activity. By designing a modified impeller, the aggregate size was reduced, which promoted cell proliferation and stemness maintenance. This study showed that increasing the stirring speed reduced the size of hUCMSC-microcarrier aggregates with the original impeller. However, it also inhibited cell proliferation, decreased activity, and led to spontaneous differentiation. Compared to low stirring speeds, high stirring speeds did not alter the radial flow characteristics and vortex distribution of the flow field, but did generate higher shear rates. The new impeller’s design changed the flow field from radial to axial. The use of the novel impeller with an increased axial pumping rate (Qz) at a similar shear rate compared to the original impeller resulted in a 43.7% reduction in aggregate size, a 37.4% increase in cell density, and a better preservation of the expression of stemness markers (SOX2, OCT4 and NANOG). Increasing the Qz was a key factor in promoting aggregate suspension and size reduction. The results of this study have significant implications for the design of reactors, the optimisation of operating parameters, and the regulation of cellular physiological activity during MSC expansion.

Graphical Abstract
Predicting cognitive dysfunction and regional hubs using Braak staging amyloid-beta biomarkers and machine learning
Authors: Bhattarai Puskar , Taha Ahmed , Soni Bhavin , Thakuri Deepa S. , Ritter Erin , Chand Ganesh B.
Published: December 2023

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional stage between normal aging and early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The presence of extracellular amyloid-beta (Aβ) in Braak regions suggests a connection with cognitive dysfunction in MCI/AD. Investigating the multivariate predictive relationships between regional Aβ biomarkers and cognitive function can aid in the early detection and prevention of AD. We introduced machine learning approaches to estimate cognitive dysfunction from regional Aβ biomarkers and identify the Aβ-related dominant brain regions involved with cognitive impairment. We employed Aβ biomarkers and cognitive measurements from the same individuals to train support vector regression (SVR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models and predict cognitive performance solely based on Aβ biomarkers on the test set. To identify Aβ-related dominant brain regions involved in cognitive prediction, we built the local interpretable model-agnostic explanations (LIME) model. We found elevated Aβ in MCI compared to controls and a stronger correlation between Aβ and cognition, particularly in Braak stages III–IV and V–VII (p < 0.05) biomarkers. Both SVR and ANN, especially ANN, showed strong predictive relationships between regional Aβ biomarkers and cognitive impairment (p < 0.05). LIME integrated with ANN showed that the parahippocampal gyrus, inferior temporal gyrus, and hippocampus were the most decisive Braak regions for predicting cognitive decline. Consistent with previous findings, this new approach suggests relationships between Aβ biomarkers and cognitive impairment. The proposed analytical framework can estimate cognitive impairment from Braak staging Aβ biomarkers and delineate the dominant brain regions collectively involved in AD pathophysiology.
Bridge deck surface damage assessment using point cloud data
Authors: Al Shaini Issa , Blanco Adriana C. Trias
Published: December 2023

Bridge deck condition assessments are typically conducted through visual inspections and by incorporating traditional contact sensors for Non-Destructive Evaluation techniques such as hammer sounding and chain dragging, which require the keen expertise of trained inspectors. The accuracy of these inspections is proportional to the level of deterioration of the bridge deck, as the ability of the inspectors is correlated to the apparent level of damage. This study aims to improve the accuracy of bridge deck inspection processes by utilizing non-destructive evaluation techniques, including analyzing point cloud data gathered via Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) as a geometry-capturing tool for identifying surface irregularities. This research aims to evaluate and quantify the effectiveness and efficiency of LiDAR sensors in contributing to the suite of technologies available to perform bridge deck condition assessment. To achieve this, the research proposes to understand the deterioration pattern of New Jersey bridges, evaluate the results gathered from point cloud data collected on a full-scale bridge deck, and quantify the information gained from deploying LiDAR on operating bridges in New Jersey. Two data processing approaches were chosen to measure the gross and fine dimensions of the evaluated bridge decks, such as the Curvature Extraction and Slope Analysis method, and the Least Square Plane Fitting method, resulting in an accuracy of 97.92% in reference to the results gathered from reports generated through the analysis of state-of-the-art NDE technology data and visual inspection.
The “Sandwich” Extended Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy for the Treatment of Fixed Sagittal Malalignment: Technical Description, Case Series, and Early Results With 2-Year Outcomes
Authors: Bakhsheshian Joshua , Hassan Fthimnir M. , Greisberg Gabriella , Platt Andrew , Zuckerman Scott L. , Lenke Lawrence G.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) with fixed sagittal malalignment (FSM) may require a pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) for greater focal lordosis and restoration of global alignment. Despite growing trends in minimizing PSOs given their associated high risks, a considerable portion of patients with ASD still require a lumbar PSO most commonly because of iatrogenic flat back deformity. The purpose of this article is to describe a modified extended PSO technique with additional anterior column support coined the “sandwich” extended PSO (SE-PSO) to promote arthrodesis and report the outcomes in a consecutive case series.

METHODS:

Patients with ASD treated with a lumbar SE-PSO at a single institution from 2015 to 2020 were analyzed. Complications, radiographic data, and patient-reported outcomes were compared preoperatively, at immediate postoperative follow-up, and at a 2-year postoperative follow-up (FU).

RESULTS:

Fourteen patients who underwent revision operations for FSM were included. Improvements in segmental lordosis across the PSO site (14.8 ± 6.8 vs 39.9 ± 7.1, P < .0001), overall lumbar lordosis (14.6 ± 15.4 vs 44.6 ± 12.1, P < .0001), sacral slope (21.0 ± 10.5 31.1 ± 10.7, P = .0150), C7 sagittal vertical axis (140.1 ± 59.0 mm vs 35.9 ± 28.5, P < .0001), and spinopelvic mismatch (52.5 ± 21.3 vs 18.6 ± 14.1, P = .0001) were obtained in all patients. Eight patients experienced perioperative complications, with intraoperative durotomy being the most common (n = 7). Eight patients had a 2-year FU and demonstrated improvements in their segmental lordosis across the PSO site (14.3 ± 7.0 vs 41.3 ± 7.3, P = .0003), overall lumbar lordosis (8.7 ± 17.8 vs 46.1 ± 14.2, P = .0014), sacral slope (19.1 ± 12.8 vs 32.3 ± 12.5, P = .0479), C7 sagittal vertical axis (173.6 ± 54.4 mm vs 35.8 ± 30.0, P < .0001), and spinopelvic mismatch (63.0 ± 19.7 vs 21.1 ± 18.3, P < .0001), all of which were maintained at final FU (P > .05). At 2 years, a significant increase in Scoliosis Research Society-22r total score (2.5 ± 0.8 vs 3.6 ± 0.7, P = .0023 was reported. There were no reports of symptomatic pseudarthrosis or mechanical complications.

CONCLUSION:

SE-PSO is an effective technique to correct FSM and is associated with low complications, improved patient-reported outcomes, and spinopelvic parameters that are maintained at 2 years.
Physiological characteristics of IRR 400 series rubber clones (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.) under drought stress
Authors: Pasaribu Syarifah Aini , Basyuni Mohammad , Purba Edison , Hasanah Yaya
Published: December 2023

Background Drought stress is one of the main causes of plant death. Strategies for plants survival are morphological adaptations, specific signaling pathways, and tolerance mechanisms. Rubber plantations have many uses, such as foreign exchange sources, job sources, forest revitalization, and a source of alternative wood for building materials and furniture. The rubber plant’s response to drought stress is a complex biological process. A tolerant rubber clone in a dry area is the right approach. The present study aimed to identify drought tolerant traits in order to select or identify drought-tolerant clones at juvenile stage. Methods The first factor examined for this work was clones (IRR 425, IRR 428, IRR 429, IRR 434, IRR 440, RRIC 100, and BPM 24) and the second factor was water content (30%, 60%, and 90%). The study was arranged on a factorial randomized block design and repeated three times. Characteristics observed were total sugar (µM), proline (mg/L), chlorophyll a, b, total (µg/mL), hydrogen peroxidase (µmol/g), ascorbate peroxidase (unit/mg), superoxide dismutase (unit/mg), and peroxide dismutase (unit/mg). Results The tolerance ability of the IRR 400 series rubber clones to drought stress was determined by observing the characteristics of sugar total and proline. The concentration of total sugar and proline were higher when the plant was treated with a lower water content. The selected clones tolerant to drought stress are RR 425 and IR 434 with high total sugar content and proline. Other characteristics, namely chlorophyll a, b, and total, as well as hydrogen peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, super oxide dismutase, peroxide dismutase, cannot be used as selection characteristics for this study. Conclusions This drought study of IRR 400 clones with varying water content percentages illustrated that the total sugar and proline characteristics could be used to distinguish tolerance levels from other observed characteristics.
Safety of intracameral injection of levofloxacin 0.5% eye drops single dose 0.6 ml preservative free on rabbit eye
Authors: Edwar Lukman , Bisara Baltazar B. , Setiabudi Rianto , Susanto Eka , Badruddin Gabriella H.
Published: December 2023

Background This was an experimental, parallel, and randomized study to evaluate the safety of single intracameral injection of 0.6 ml 0.5% preservative-free levofloxacin eye drops on rabbit eye. Methods In total, 24 eyes of 12 New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups. The first group (LFX) was treated with 0.1 ml intracameral injection of levofloxacin 0.5% eye drops of 0.6 ml preservative-free (n = 6), the second group (CRAV) was treated with 0.1 ml intracameral injection of levofloxacin 0.5% eye drops 5 ml commercially available eye drops preservative-free (n = 6), and the third group (BSS) were treated with 0.1 ml intracameral injection of balanced salt solution (n = 12). All groups received a single dose. The clinical evaluation was performed on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th day after injection. Each eye was enucleated on the 7th day and underwent a histopathology examination. Results The clinical scores among the three groups did not show any significant difference on days 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th (p>0.05). The only ones noted in clinical scores were mild corneal opacity, mild cells, and flares in the anterior chamber. The histopathology score demonstrated no statistically significant difference between the three groups (p>0.05). Vacuolization of corneal endothelial cells was noted in all groups but was not statistically significant. Conclusions A single intracameral injection of 0.6 ml 0.5% preservative-free levofloxacin eye drops was safe for rabbit eye, according to clinical and histopathology scores, similar to levofloxacin 0.5% eye drops in 5 ml bottle preservative free.
The Gender Equality Paradox in STEM fields: Evidence, criticism, and implications
Authors: Osterloh Margit , Rost Katja , Hizli Louisa , Mösching Annina
Published: December 2023

The gender gap in the fields of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science) in richer and more egalitarian countries compared to poorer and less egalitarian countries is called “Gender Equality Paradox” (GEP). We provide an overview of the evidence for the GEP and respond to criticism against the GEP. We explain the GEP by the higher identity costs of women in wealthier countries due to an increase in the gender stereotype gap and at the same time a lower marginal utility of wealth. We discuss why the GEP in rich countries in the future might enlarge the gender pay gap in spite of more gender equality.
Personal hygiene in individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia: the role of gender, clinical characteristics, and the body self.
Authors: Sakson-Obada Olga
Published: December 2023

Cel pracy

Celem badania było sprawdzenie, czy osoby z diagnozą schizofrenii różnią się w zakresie higieny osobistej (HO) od osób z grupy kontrolnej oraz ocena znaczenia płci, charakterystyk klinicznych oraz Ja cielesnego (doświadczania ciała i obrazu ciała) dla HO.

Metoda

Przebadano 82 osoby z diagnozą schizofrenii w stabilnym stanie psychicznym oraz 82 osoby z grupy kontrolnej. Wszyscy badani wypełnili Skalę troski o higienę (STH), Kwestionariusz Ja cielesnego oraz odpowiedzieli na pytania Wywiadu do oceny cenestopatii. W celu potwierdzenia trafności odpowiedzi pacjentów, STH wypełniał także personel medyczny.

Wyniki

Subiektywna ocena HO jest skorelowana z ocenami dokonywanymi przez personel medyczny. Osoby z grupy klinicznej gorzej oceniały swoją HO, niż badani z grupy kontrolnej. Mężczyźni gorzej oceniają swoją HO, niż kobiety. W przypadku chorujących mężczyzn, deficyty higieniczne szły w parze z licznymi zakłóceniami w doświadczaniu własnego ciała (cenestopatia, zakłócenia interpretacji, regulacji stanów ciała i tożsamości cielesnej) zaś w przypadku chorujących kobiet były powiązane jedynie z trudnościami w interpretacji i regulacji stanów ciała oraz negatywnymi symptomami.

Wnioski

Osoby z diagnozą schizofrenii w stabilnym stanie psychicznym, przejawiają deficyty w trosce o higienę, które są związane nie tyle z negatywnym ustosunkowaniem do ciała, co z zaburzonym jego doświadczaniem. Uwarunkowania deficytów higienicznych w schizofrenii są zależne od płci. W badaniu nie uczestniczyły osoby z ciężkim przebiegiem choroby, co pozwala zrozumieć brak powiązań symptomów negatywnych schizofrenii z HO w grupie badanych mężczyzn.
Assessment of knowledge and beliefs concerning mental disorders among medical students - preliminary report.
Authors: Badura Brzoza Karina , Dębski Paweł , Główczyński Patryk , Ścisło Piotr , Piegza Magdalena , Błachut Michał , Gorczyca Piotr
Published: December 2023

Cel pracy

Celem pracy była ocena postaw wobec osób z zaburzeniami psychicznymi.

Metoda

Badanie ankietowe przeprowadzono w grupie 93 studentów V roku studiów medycznych, kierunku lekarskiego, w tym 59 kobiet i 34 mężczyzn w wieku 24.34±1.28 lat.

Wyniki

W przeprowadzanych badaniach osobisty kontakt z psychiatrą z powodu kłopotów z własnym zdrowiem psychicznym zadeklarowało 23% badanych. Wybór psychiatrii, jako dziedziny specjalizacji deklarowało 19% studentów. W analizie kwestionariusza dotyczącego przekonań aż 83% respondentów uznało, że choroba psychiczna jest powodem do wstydu. Analizując stosunek badanych do leczenia, wykazano, że aż 80% osób uważało, że przymusowa hospitalizacja jest słuszna. Należy podkreślić, że jedynie 31% badanych studentów uznało, że osoby z zaburzeniami psychicznymi powinny decydować się na potomstwo, a 36 % osób uważało, że osoby zaburzone psychicznie nie sprawdzą się w roli rodzica. Aż 30% badanych uważało, że osoby z zaburzeniami psychicznymi częściej popełniają przestępstwa niż osoby zdrowe, a 42% studentów wykazała brak zdecydowania w tym aspekcie.

Wnioski

Wyniki badań sugerują konieczność poszerzania wiedzy i kształtowania właściwych postaw wobec osób z zaburzeniami psychicznymi wśród przyszły lekarzy.
Ruminations as predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder after hospitalization for Covid-19
Authors: Juczyński Zygfryd , Kwiecińska Luiza , Ogińska-Bulik Janina
Published: December 2023

Cel pracy

Problemy ze zdrowiem psychicznym należą do najczęściej zgłaszanych dolegliwości wśród osób, które były hospitalizowane z powodu Covid-19. Celem badania było ustalenie u osób hospitalizowanych z powodu Covid-19 częstości występowania PTSD oraz wyznaczenie predyktorów ryzyka jego wystąpienia.

Metoda

Badaniami objęto 250 osób po hospitalizacji z powodu Covid-19. Zastosowano kilka standaryzowanych narzędzi pomiaru, tj. PCL-5; PSS-10; ERRI; SPP-15 and PANAS.

Wyniki

Ogółem 55,6% badanych kwalifikowało się do diagnozy PTSD. Były to w większości osoby hospitalizowane powyżej 2 tygodni, o cięższym przebiegu choroby, badani w okresie 3 miesięcy po hospitalizacji. Do modelu regresji wprowadzono czynniki związane z przebiegiem leczenia oraz zmienne psychologiczne, zarówno zwiększające ryzyko wystąpienia PTSD, tj. spostrzegany stres, ruminowanie natrętne i emocje negatywne, jak i czynniki chroniące, tj. prężność, ruminowanie refleksyjne i emocje pozytywne. Ogólnie model regresji wyjaśnia 72% wariancji całkowitej. Najbardziej znaczące dla predykcji PTSD okazały się ruminacje natrętne, wyjaśniające 59% wariancji oraz spostrzegany stres (12%).

Wnioski

Osoby z rozpoznaniem PTSD wymagają pomocy terapeutycznej, dlatego tak ważne jest zidentyfikowanie czynników ryzyka, które mogą być pomocnych w usprawnieniu procesu terapii oraz ułatwieniu podejmowania działań profilaktycznych.