bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and toxicity of stereotactic body radiotherapy for un-resectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer patients unfit for concurrent chemoradiation therapy: a retrospective study
Authors: Jia Zhen , Fang Fang , Cao Yangsen , Zhu Xiaofei , Yang XiaoYu , Guo Xueling , Zhang Huojun
Published: August 2023

Background

In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) as replacement strategy of conventionally fractionated radiation therapy in stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients unfit for concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CRT).

Methods

We analyzed the clinical outcomes in patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC who received SBRT from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2018. Both induction and consolidation chemotherapy were allowed. The survival rates and toxicities were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and potential risk factors were investigated by multivariate Cox regression.

Results

A total of 213 consecutive patients who had received SBRT were enrolled. The median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 36.5 months and 16.1 months respectively. The estimated 1-, 2- and 3-year OS rates were 90.6%, 73.7% and 52.0%, respectively and the corresponding PFS rates were 69.5%, 25.4% and 15.0%, respectively. Treatment failures were largely (n = 151, 70.9%) distant metastases, with low rates of local (n = 74, 34.74%) and regional (n = 76, 35.68%) recurrences. In 13.1% patients (n = 28), ≥ grade (G) 3 toxicities were identified, including radiation pneumonia (n = 20, 9.4%) and bronchopulmonary hemorrhage (n = 8, 3.8%). None of the patients suffered from ≥ G 3 late toxic effects. Compared with patients with peripheral tumors, patients with central tumors had lower median OS (P<0.001) and the biological effective dose (BED) was not a predictor for OS.

Conclusions

SBRT combined with chemotherapy for stage III NSCLC produced favorable treatment outcomes with acceptable toxicity. For patients with central tumors, an appropriate BED reduction can be considered. Further studies are warranted.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered.
Optimizing the fabrication of a 3D high-resolution implant for neural stimulation
Authors: Shpun Gal , Farah Nairouz , Chemla Yoav , Markus Amos , Leibovitch Tamar Azrad , Lasnoy Erel , Gerber Doron , Zalevsky Zeev , Mandel Yossi
Published: August 2023

Background

Tissue-integrated micro-electronic devices for neural stimulation hold great potential in restoring the functionality of degenerated organs, specifically, retinal prostheses, which are aimed at vision restoration. The fabrication process of 3D polymer-metal devices with high resolution and a high aspect-ratio (AR) is very complex and faces many challenges that impair its functionality.

Approach

Here we describe the optimization of the fabrication process of a bio-functionalized 3D high-resolution 1mm circular subretinal implant composed of SU-8 polymer integrated with dense gold microelectrodes (23μm pitch) passivated with 3D micro-well-like structures (20μm diameter, 3μm resolution). The main challenges were overcome by step-by-step planning and optimization while utilizing a two-step bi-layer lift-off process; bio-functionalization was carried out by N2 plasma treatment and the addition of a bio-adhesion molecule.

Main results

In-vitro and in-vivo investigations, including SEM and FIB cross section examinations, revealed a good structural design, as well as a good long-term integration of the device in the rat sub-retinal space and cell migration into the wells. Moreover, the feasibility of subretinal neural stimulation using the fabricated device was demonstrated in-vitro by electrical activation of rat’s retina.

Conclusions

The reported process and optimization steps described here in detail can aid in designing and fabricating retinal prosthetic devices or similar neural implants.
The circadian clock circuitry modulates leukemia initiating cell activity in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Murgo Emanuele , De Santis Elisabetta , Sansico Francesca , Melocchi Valentina , Colangelo Tommaso , Padovano Costanzo , Colucci Mattia , Carbone Annalucia , Totti Beatrice , Basti Alireza , Gottschlich Lisa , Relogio Angela , Capitanio Nazzareno , Bianchi Fabrizio , Mazzoccoli Gianluigi , Giambra Vincenzo
Published: August 2023

Background

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological malignancy, characterized by restricted cellular subsets with asymmetrically enriched leukemia initiating cell (LIC) activity. Nonetheless, it is still unclear which signaling programs promote LIC maintenance and progression.

Methods

Here, we evaluated the role of the biological clock in the regulation of the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways impacting the cellular dynamics in T-ALL through an integrated experimental approach including gene expression profiling of shRNA-modified T-ALL cell lines and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation Sequencing (ChIP-Seq) of leukemic cells. Patient-derived xenograft (PDXs) cell subsets were also genetically manipulated in order to assess the LIC activity modulated by the loss of biological clock in human T-ALL.

Results

We report that the disruption of the circadian clock circuitry obtained through shRNA-mediated knockdown of CLOCK and BMAL1 genes negatively impacted the growth in vitro as well as the activity in vivo of LIC derived from PDXs after transplantation into immunodeficient recipient mice. Additionally, gene expression data integrated with ChIP-Seq profiles of leukemic cells revealed that the circadian clock directly promotes the expression of genes, such as IL20RB, crucially involved in JAK/STAT signaling, making the T-ALL cells more responsive to Interleukin 20 (IL20).

Conclusion

Taken together, our data support the concept that the biological clock drives the expression of IL20R prompting JAK/STAT signaling and promoting LIC activity in T-ALL and suggest that the selective targeting of circadian components could be therapeutically relevant for the treatment of T-ALL patients.
hUMSC transplantation restores follicle development in ovary damaged mice via re-establish extracellular matrix (ECM) components
Authors: Shuyuan Yin , Meimei Wang , Fenghua Li , Huishan Zhao , Min Chu , Hongchu Bao , Xuemei Liu
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Explore the therapeutic role of human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) transplantation for regeneration of ECM components and restoration of follicular development in mice.

Background

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial to maintain ovary function and regulate follicular development, as it participates in important cell signaling and provides physical support to the cells. However, it is unknown how hUMSCs affect the expression of ECM-related genes in ovaries treated with cyclophosphamide (CTX) and busulfan (BUS).

Methods

In the present study, we used 64 six- to eight-week-old ICR female mice to established mouse model. The mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 16/group): control, POI, POI + hUMSCs, and POI + PBS group. The premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of CTX and BUS for 7days, then, hUMSCs or PBS were respectively injected via the tail vein in POI + hUMSCs or POI + PBS group. Another 7days after injection, the mice were sacrificed to harvest the ovary tissue. The ovaries were immediately frozen with liquid nitrogen or fixed with 4% PFA for subsequent experiments. To screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we performed transcriptome sequencing of ovaries. Thereafter, a Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to predict the related biological functions. Retrieval of interacting genes for ECM-related DEGs was performed using the function of STRINGdb (version 2.6.5) to evaluate potential protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and IHC were performed to assess the differential expression of selected DEGs in control, damaged, hUMSCs-transplanted and non-transplanted ovaries.

Results

Chemotherapy caused mouse ovarian follicular reserve depletion, and hUMSCs transplantation partially restored follicular development. Our results revealed that ECM-receptor interaction and ECM organization were both downregulated in the damaged ovaries. Further investigation showed that ECM-related genes were downregulated in the CTX and BUS treatment group and partially rescued in hUMSCs injection group but not in the PBS group. qRT-PCR and IHC verified the results: collagen IV and laminin gamma 3 were both expressed around follicle regions in normal ovaries, chemotherapy treatment disrupted their expression, and hUMSCs transplantation rescued their localization and expression to some extent.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that ECM-related genes participate in the regulation of ovarian reserve, hUMSCs treatment rescued abnormal expression and localization of collagen IV and laminin gamma 3 in the damaged ovaries. The results suggest that hUMSCs transplantation can maintain ECM-stable microenvironments, which is beneficial to follicular development.
Carbon nanotube/Chitosan hydrogel for adsorption of acid red 73 in aqueous and soil environments
Authors: Wei Jia , Yan Luchun , Zhang Zhifang , Hu Bing , Gui Wenjun , Cui Yanjun
Published: August 2023

Acid red 73 is an azo dye, and its residue can pollute the environment and seriously threaten human health and life. In this study, glutaraldehyde was used as the crosslinking agent, chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol were crosslinked under appropriate conditions to obtain a chitosan hydrogel film, and carbon nanotubes were dispersed in the chitosan hydrogel film. The FTIR, XRD, BET, SEM were applied to chatacterize the structure and the morphology of the absorbent and results showed that when the mass fraction of the carbon nanotubes was 1%, the structure was a three-dimensional network with microporous, and the water absorption reached to the maximum value of 266.07% and the elongation at break reached to a maximum of 98.87%. The ability to remove acid red 73 from aqueous and soil environments was evaluated by UV. In the aqueous samples, 70 mg of the adsorbent reached a saturated adsorption capacity of 101.07 mg/g and a removal rate of 92.23% at pH = 5. The thermodynamics conformed with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and pseudo second-order adsorption kinetic models. In the soil samples, 100 mg of the adsorbent reached an adsorption capacity of 24.73 mg/g and removal rate of 49.45%. When the pH of the soil is between 4 and 7, the removal rate and adsorption capacity do not change much; hence, the pH should be maintained between 5.2 and 6.8, which is extremely suitable for the growth of general plants. Moreover, the experimental results demonstrated that the adsorbent maintained a good removal rate of acid red 73 over six adsorption cycles.

Graphical Abstract
Successful use of HTF as a basal fertilization medium during SEcuRe mouse in vitro fertilization
Authors: Wigger Magdalena , Schneider Marco , Feldmann Anni , Assenmacher Sonja , Zevnik Branko , Tröder Simon E.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The ever-increasing number of genetically engineered mouse models highlights the need for efficient archiving and distribution of these lines. Sperm cryopreservation has become the preferred technique for the majority of these models due to its low requirement of costs, time, and experimental animals. Yet, current in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols either exhibit decreased fertilization efficiency for the most popular C57BL/6 strain, as recently demonstrated by us, or require costly and difficult-to-prepare media, respectively. As a result, we previously developed SEcuRe, a modified IVF protocol with low costs and high fertilization efficiency. The popular basal fertilization medium, Cook’s® proprietary “Research vitro fert” (RVF), used in this protocol has recently been discontinued. As a result, the application of the SEcuRe approach and other IVF protocols employing this medium has been severely limited.

Results

Here we show that human tubal fluid (HTF), a popular and widely available medium with a known composition, can be used as a basal fertilization medium instead of RVF. Comparison of RVF and HTF during 58 independent SEcuRe IVFs with cryopreserved C57BL/6 sperm revealed equal fertilization and live birth rates. In addition, we demonstrate that HTF has a substantially extended shelf-life by utilizing commercial HTF that was six months past its expiration date, yet did not affect fertilization during IVF or subsequent embryo development. This finding not only increases the economic value of our modified method, but also validates it once more. Our results demonstrate that common, shelf-life extended HTF can be used in SEcuRe IVF in place of now-discontinued RVF medium and ensure the applicability of the method, which we since termed SEcuRe 2.0. Our modified SEcuRe 2.0 strategy will assist researchers to efficiently archive and distribute genetically engineered mouse models in a cost-effective, easily adaptable, and 3R-compliant manner with minimal animal use.
The humanistic and economic burden of work-related musculoskeletal pain: a cross-sectional survey of workers in the United Kingdom
Authors: Smith Adam B. , Cooper Stephanie , Hanning Jennifer , Buckley Carolyn
Published: August 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) lower body pain on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and work productivity in a large sample of workers in the United Kingdom, as well as evaluating the potential economic impact of MSK pain.

Methods

Participants with self-reported work-related MSK pain were recruited from an online panel maintained by a third party (Qualtrics LLC). Participants completed three validated instruments online: the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), the Assessment of Quality of Life Instrument (AQoL-4D), and the 6-item Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI). Sociodemographic details, work patterns and healthcare resource utilisation were also reported. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-tests were used to explore differences between variables. Linear regression was applied to determine the impact of work-related MSK pain on HRQoL.

Results

All 1035 recruited participants completed the survey (57.4% female; mean age 43.4 years). Participants reported spending all (25.2%) or most (53%) of their time at work on their feet. Mean pain severity was 4.63 (standard deviation: 2.07); mean pain interference was 4.37 (2.49). There was a linear relationship between length of shift, time on feet and pain. Mean AQoL-4D scores were 0.609 (0.254). A mean of 4.12 h was lost per week due to pain. Absenteeism (last 7 days) was 9.5% (20.7%), and presenteeism 33.3% (24.9%). An average 1.55 visits were made to family practitioners (total cost: £19,866) and 1 hospital visit (£37,320) due to work-related MSK pain.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that work-related lower body pain has a significant impact in terms of individual HRQoL and as an economic societal burden.
“Vegan” and “plant-based” claims: risk implications for milk- and egg-allergic consumers in Canada
Authors: Dominguez Silvia , Théolier Jérémie , Lizée Kamila , Povolo Beatrice , Gerdts Jennifer , Godefroy Samuel B.
Published: August 2023

The market share of foods carrying labels suggesting absence of animal ingredients has significantly increased in recent years. The purpose of this study was to document the purchasing behaviour of egg- or milk-allergic consumers vis-à-vis food marketed as “vegan” and “plant-based”, and to evaluate the associated allergenic risk. A survey was conducted among egg- and milk-allergic consumers and revealed that 86% (margin of error 5.4%; confidence level 95%) would buy “vegan” products, indicating this label may be perceived as a substitute for “free from milk and eggs”. To assess the risk posed by these products, 87 prepackaged foods with “vegan” and/or “plant-based” claims purchased in Quebec were tested for milk proteins, and 64 for egg proteins. Overall, 5.7% and 0% occurrence of milk and egg proteins, respectively, were observed, suggesting that the analysed prepackaged foods carrying “vegan” and/or “plant-based” labels pose little risk to egg- or milk-allergic consumers. However, this is likely due to allergen management practices applied by the Canadian manufacturers of the products tested, and should not be attributed to the use of “vegan” or similar labels. Enhanced regulatory requirements for the use of these labels, and an education campaign on their meaning with respect to allergy-related risks, are necessary to better inform and protect egg- and milk-allergic consumers.
The Stenger conjectures and the A-stability of collocation Runge-Kutta methods
Authors: Ait-Haddou Rachid , Alselami Hoda
Published: August 2023

Stenger conjectures are claims about the location of the eigenvalues of matrices whose elements are certain integrals involving basic Lagrange interpolating polynomials supported on the zeros of orthogonal polynomials. In this paper, we show the validity of the extended Stenger conjecture for families of classical orthogonal polynomials. We also show the validity of the restricted Strenger conjecture for a family of Jacobi and generalized Laguerre orthogonal polynomials. A connection with the A-stability of the collocation Runge-Kutta methods is investigated.
Microcosm study on fate and dynamics of mangrove tannins during leaf litter leaching
Authors: Zhou Hai-Chao , Kang Hui-Xing , Wei Jian , Gao Chang-Jun , Hussain Muzammil , Fu Yi-Jian , Li Ming-Dang , Li Feng-Lan , Xu Steven Jing-Liang , Lee Fred Wang-Fat , Jiang Ming-Guo , Wang Yi-Bing , Chen Xiao-Xia , Tam Nora Fung-Yee , Lang Tao
Published: August 2023

Background

Mangrove tannins can participate in wetland biogeochemical cycling. However, their fate and dynamics during leaf litter leaching have yet to be elucidated in coastal aquatic environments.

Methods

By using a simulated microcosm experiment, changes in leaf litter mass and tannin compounds, including total phenolics (TP), extractable condensed tannins (ECT), and bound condensed tannins (BCT), were examined in the litters and leachates of four common mangrove species: Kandelia obovata (Ko), Aegiceras corniculatum (Ac), Sonneratia apetala (Sa), and Avicennia marina (Am).

Results

Leaching caused a notable decline in litter mass, TP, and ECT in the leaf litter of Ko, Ac, Sa, and Am, while BCT increased significantly in Ko and Ac. Loss in foliar TP was higher than in leaf litter mass, and loss in foliar ECT was higher than in TP of Ko and Ac, but Sa showed the opposite result. The temporal changes of TP and ECT concentrations in leachates followed a similar trend, with an initial increase followed by a decrease. ECT dynamics in Ko and Ac leachates correlated with their TP concentrations, while in Sa leachate, the peak ECT occurred 72 h later than its TP peak. The leachate ECT concentrations were highest in Ac, followed by Ko, and significantly lower in Sa. The peak TP and ECT proportions in leachates accounted for 9.2–23.9% and 7.7–9.4% of the total decreases in foliar TP and ECT, respectively.

Conclusion

During the leaching process, tannins’ fate was species-specific, while the dynamics were almost similar.
Autumn migration of the migrant hawker (Aeshna mixta) at the Baltic coast
Authors: Oelmann Yvonne , Fiedler Diana , Michaelis Rune , Leivits Meelis , Braun Andreas , Gschwind Philipp , Neidhardt Harald , Willigalla Christoph
Published: August 2023

Background

Migratory insects are important for the provision of ecosystem services both at the origin and destination sites but – apart from some iconic species – the migration routes of many insect species have not been assessed. Coastlines serve as a funnel where migrating animals including insects accumulate. Migratory behaviour and captures of dragonflies in bird traps suggest autumn migration of dragonflies along coastlines while the origin and regularity of this migration remain unclear.

Methods

Dragonfly species were caught at the bird observatory Kabli at the Baltic coast in Estonia in 2009, 2010 and 2015. For the 2015 data set, we used a stable hydrogen (H) approach to trace the potential natal origin of the migrant hawker (Aeshna mixta).

Results

1079 (2009), 701 (2010) and 88 (2015) A. mixta individuals were caught during the study periods (35, 37 and 11 days in 2009, 2010 and 2015, respectively). The migration period lasted from end of August to end of September. Based on the results from our stable isotope analysis, we identified two populations of A. mixta: One (range of isotope signatures of non-exchangeable H [δ2Hn wing]: −78‰ to −112‰) had a local likely origin while the other (δ2Hn wing: −113‰ to −147‰) migrated from northerly directions even in headwind from the South. The former showed an even sex ratio whereas the actively migrating population was dominated by males.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a regular southbound autumn migration of A. mixta along the Baltic coast. However, nearly half of the sampled individuals originated from the surroundings suggesting either no, partial or “leap-frog” migration. Contrary to our expectation, A. mixta did not select favourable wind conditions but continued the southbound autumn migration in the flight boundary layer even in case of headwinds. The dominance of males might indicate migration as a result of competition for resources. Further repeated, large-scale studies along the Baltic coast are necessary to pinpoint the migratory pattern and the reason for migration of A. mixta. Such studies should also comprise locations north of the known species range of A. mixta because of the rapid climate-change induced range expansion.
Regional geomagnetic core field and secular variation model over the Iberian Peninsula from 2014 to 2020 based on the R-SCHA technique
Authors: Puente-Borque Marina , Pavón-Carrasco F. Javier , Núñez Alberto , Tordesillas José Manuel , Campuzano Saioa A.
Published: August 2023

The Earth’s magnetic field originated in the fluid core, the so-called core field, is the dominant contribution to the geomagnetic field. Since ancient times, the core geomagnetic field has been used primarily for geographical orientation and navigation by means of compasses. Nowadays, thanks to the large amount of geomagnetic data available, core field models can be developed on a global or regional scale. Global models resolve large-scale geomagnetic field features, while regional models can resolve greater detail over a particular region. The spherical harmonic cap analysis is a widely used technique for regional-scale modelling of the geomagnetic field. In this work we have developed a regional model of the core field and its secular variation between 2014.5 and 2020.5 over the Iberian Peninsula, based on data from Swarm satellites, geomagnetic observatories and repeat stations. Its performance has been validated by comparing the fit to the available geomagnetic data using the regional model and the global models IGRF and CHAOS over the whole spatio-temporal range studied. In order to optimise the model, a detailed study of its input parameters has been carried out, showing that not all parameters have an equal influence on the modelling. This new model reproduces the input data with a root mean square error of 2.9 nT, improving the outcome of global models on this region. The results of this work will allow the Spanish Instituto Geográfico Nacional to produce the magnetic cartography of Iberia and the Balearic Islands in 2020.0, which for the first time will be based on a regional core field model, replacing the polynomial variation method used in the past.

Graphical abstract
MesenchymAl stromal cells for Traumatic bRain Injury (MATRIx): a study protocol for a multicenter, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled phase II trial
Authors: Zanier Elisa R. , Pischiutta Francesca , Rulli Eliana , Vargiolu Alessia , Elli Francesca , Gritti Paolo , Gaipa Giuseppe , Belotti Daniela , Basso Gianpaolo , Zoerle Tommaso , Stocchetti Nino , Citerio Giuseppe ,   on behalf of the MATRIx Study group
Published: August 2023

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant cause of death and disability, with no effective neuroprotective drugs currently available for its treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-based therapy shows promise as MSCs release various soluble factors that can enhance the injury microenvironment through processes, such as immunomodulation, neuroprotection, and brain repair. Preclinical studies across different TBI models and severities have demonstrated that MSCs can improve functional and structural outcomes. Moreover, clinical evidence supports the safety of third-party donor bank-stored MSCs in adult subjects. Building on this preclinical and clinical data, we present the protocol for an academic, investigator-initiated, multicenter, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, adaptive phase II dose-finding study aiming to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous administration of allogeneic bone marrow-derived MSCs to severe TBI patients within 48 h of injury.

Methods/design

The study will be conducted in two steps. Step 1 will enrol 42 patients, randomised in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive 80 million MSCs, 160 million MSCs or a placebo to establish safety and identify the most promising dose. Step 2 will enrol an additional 36 patients, randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive the selected dose of MSCs or placebo. The activity of MSCs will be assessed by quantifying the plasmatic levels of neurofilament light (NfL) at 14 days as a biomarker of neuronal damage. It could be a significant breakthrough if the study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of MSC-based therapy for severe TBI patients. The results of this trial could inform the design of a phase III clinical trial aimed at establishing the efficacy of the first neurorestorative therapy for TBI.

Discussion

Overall, the MATRIx trial is a critical step towards developing an effective treatment for TBI, which could significantly improve the lives of millions worldwide affected by this debilitating condition.

Trial Registration EudraCT: 2022-000680-49.
Foreland basin unconformity, Western Himalaya, Pakistan: timing gap, regional correlation and tectonic implications
Authors: Qasim Muhammad , Rehman Zia Ur , Ding Lin , Tanoli Javed Iqbal , Abbas Wahid , Jamil Muhammad , Bhatti Zahid Imran , Umar Muhammad
Published: August 2023

This study estimates the timing of unconformity between marine–continental transitional sequence of the Kuldana Formation and continental sequence of the Murree Formation for the first time across the Hazara-Kashmir syntaxis, western Himalaya, Pakistan. The ages of the studied units are constrained using detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology. The maximum depositional ages constrained by weighted mean and youngest detrital zircon age are 37 ± 1.7 Ma and 22.5 ± 0.6 Ma for top of Kuldana and base of Murree formations, respectively. Based on this age, the duration of hiatus is estimated to be ~ 14.5 Ma. The comparison of this unconformity and sedimentation pattern along strike suggests that the initial collision occurred in the central segment causing its early uplift and erosion with development of the unconformity. The sedimentation in the central segment culminated at ~ 37 Ma and resumed at ~ 22.5 Ma. The wider gap in central segment becomes narrower at western and eastern margin suggesting discontinuous deposition due to gradually closure of western and eastern margin. This supports the diachronous collision of the Indian and Asian plates with initial contact at the central segment.
Development and testing the feasibility of a sports-based mental health promotion intervention in Nepal: a protocol for a pilot cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Rose-Clarke Kelly , Rimal Damodar , Morrison Joanna , Pradhan Indira , Hodsoll John , Jaoude Gerard Abou , Moore Brian , Banham Louise , Richards Justin , Jordans Mark , Prost Audrey , Lamichhane Nabin , Regmee Jaya , Gautam Kamal , Luitel Nagendra P.
Published: August 2023

Background

Mental wellbeing encompasses life satisfaction, social connectedness, agency and resilience. In adolescence, mental wellbeing reduces sexual health risk behaviours, substance use and violence; improves educational outcomes; and protects mental health in adulthood. Mental health promotion seeks to improve mental wellbeing and can include activities to engage participants in sport. However, few high-quality trials of mental health promotion interventions have been conducted with adolescents, especially in low- and middle-income countries. We sought to address this gap by testing SMART (Sports-based Mental heAlth pRomotion for adolescenTs) in a pilot cluster-randomised controlled trial (cRCT) in Bardiya, Nepal.

Methods

The objectives of the trial are to assess the acceptability and feasibility of SMART, test trial procedures, explore outcome distributions in intervention and control clusters and calculate the total annual cost of the intervention and unit cost per adolescent. The trial design is a parallel-group, two-arm superiority pilot cRCT with a 1:1 allocation ratio and two cross-sectional census surveys with adolescents aged 12–19, one pre-intervention (baseline) and one post-intervention (endline). The study area is four communities of approximately 1000 population (166 adolescents per community). Each community represents one cluster. SMART comprises twice weekly football, martial arts and dance coaching, open to all adolescents in the community, led by local sports coaches who have received psychosocial training. Sports melas (festivals) and theatre performances will raise community awareness about SMART, mental health and the benefits of sport. Adolescents in control clusters will participate in sport as usual. In baseline and endline surveys, we will measure mental wellbeing, self-esteem, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, social support, depression, anxiety and functional impairment. Using observation checklists, unstructured observation and attendance registers from coaching sessions, and minutes of meetings between coaches and supervisors, we will assess intervention fidelity, exposure and reach. In focus group discussions and interviews with coaches, teachers, caregivers and adolescents, we will explore intervention acceptability and mechanisms of change. Intervention costs will be captured from monthly project accounts, timesheets and discussions with staff members.

Discussion

Findings will identify elements of the intervention and trial procedures requiring revision prior to a full cRCT to evaluate the effectiveness of SMART.

Trial registration

ISRCTN, ISRCTN15973986, registered on 6 September 2022; ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05394311, registered 27 May 2022.
Introducing electronic monitoring of disease activity in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (EMDA CIDP): trial protocol of a proof of concept study
Authors: Masanneck Lars , Voth Jan , Huntemann Niklas , Öztürk Menekse , Schroeter Christina B. , Ruck Tobias , Meuth Sven G. , Pawlitzki Marc
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is one of the most common immune neuropathies leading to severe impairments in daily life. Current treatment options include intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), which are administered at intervals of 4–12 weeks. Determination of individual treatment intervals is challenging since existing clinical scores lack sensitivity to objectify small, partially fluctuating deficits in patients. End-of-dose phenomena described by patients, manifested by increased fatigue and worsening of (motor) symptoms, are currently difficult to detect. From a medical and socio-economic point of view, it is necessary to identify and validate new, more sensitive outcome measures for accurate mapping of disease progression and, thus, for interval finding. Digital health technologies such as wearables may be particularly useful for this purpose, as they record real-life data and consequently, in contrast to classic clinical 'snapshots’, can continuously depict the disease course.

Methods

In this prospective, observational, non-interventional, single-center, investigator-initiated study, CIDP patients treated with IVIG will be continuously monitored over a period of 6 months. Clinical scores and blood analyses will be assessed and collected during three visits (V1, V2, V3). Additionally, activity, sleep, and cardiac parameters will be recorded over the entire period using a wearable device. Further, patients' subjective disease development and quality of life will be recorded at various visits (read-outs). The usability of the smartwatch will be assessed at the end of the study.

Perspective

The study aims to evaluate different digital measurements obtained with the smartwatch and blood-based analyses for monitoring disease activity and progress in CIDP patients. In conjunction, both means of monitoring might offer detailed insights into behavioral and biological patterns associated with treatment-related fluctuations such as end-of-dose phenomena.

Trial registration

The study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT05723848. Initially, the protocol was submitted prospectively on January 10, 2023. The trial was publicly released after formal improvements on February 13, 2023, after first patients were included according to the original protocol.
Suicidal behaviours among school-going adolescents in samoa: a secondary analysis of prevalence, protective, and risk factors
Authors: Sarfo Jacob Owusu , Gbordzoe Newton Isaac , Attigah Dean , Debrah Timothy Pritchard , Ofori Crescens Osei Bonsu , Obeng Paul
Published: August 2023

Background

Suicide has become a major threat to achieving Sustainable Development Goals three and four, especially for school-going adolescents worldwide. As part of efforts to prevent suicide, population-based studies regarding the prevalence and variables that predict suicidal behaviours are required to inform decisions. Despite this realisation, Samoa lacks empirical data on suicidal behaviours among adolescents. We conducted a secondary analysis of the 2017 Global School-based Student Health Survey to examine the prevalence of suicidal behaviours (idea, plan, and attempt) of school-going adolescents in Samoa.

Results

The prevalence of suicidal ideation, plan, and attempt was 24.1%, 23.8%, and 21.8%, respectively. Also, we found that having understanding parents was an important protective factor against all three suicidal behaviours among Samoan in-school adolescents. Suicidal ideation was predicted by cigarette smoking, having someone who smokes in adolescents’ presence, bullying, loneliness, and worrying about things they could not study. Also, cigarette smoking, bullying, having multiple sexual partners, and worrying increased the risk of having suicidal plans. Again, adolescents’ suicidal attempt was predicted by adolescent truancy, alcohol use, cigarette smoking, being bullied, having close friends, loneliness, and worry.

Conclusions

Rather than focusing on the school setting alone, suicide prevention interventions in Samoa should foster interdisciplinary collaborations to help reduce suicide.
How does the mediating role of the use of social media platforms foster the relationship between employer attractiveness and generation Z intentions to apply for a job?
Authors: El-Menawy Sara Mohamed Abdelaziz , Saleh Pancie Salah
Published: August 2023

The way Jobseekers apply for jobs has drastically changed due to the rise of digital technology. With the rise of social media Jobseekers nowadays typically utilize social networking sites or other online platforms to look for work and it has made it a vital part of the labor market, especially among the young generation. The aim of this research was to determine the mediating effect of Social Media Platforms on the relationship between Employer Attractiveness and Generation Z intentions to apply for a job. The researchers use a Judgmental sampling method among fresh graduates and final-year students of number of Private universities in Egypt. Structure Equation Modeling were then used to analyze the data. The finding of this research revealed that Social Media Platforms has a mediating effect on the relationship between Employer Attractiveness and Gen Z intentions to apply for a job. Moreover, when it comes to choosing an employer, the younger generations prioritize economic value, social value, Reputation and development-interest factors over the application-diversity, working environment aspects, and management and work life balance. Furthermore, this research revealed that, the significance of certain aspects of a job change depending on the participants' educational level and the study's program. The contribution of this research provides valuable insight into how employers are perceived by young job seekers. They can also be used to develop effective recruitment strategies and improve the communication between HR professionals and candidates.
Propofol Induced Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report
Authors: Schoenfeldt Joseph A. , Howard Michael A. , Masood Deeba , Cormican Daniel S.
Published: August 2023

We report a case of a woman who experienced unexplained recurrent rashes of varying severity after multiple exposures to anesthesia, and then 2 successful surgeries under general anesthesia with no resultant rashes after removing propofol from her anesthetic plans. We infer her previous postanesthetic rashes were likely associated with drug-induced subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (DI-SCLE) triggered by propofol.
A Case of Chronic Penile Pain Successfully Treated With Dorsal Nerve Block
Authors: Watson David D. , Zhu Xiaoying
Published: August 2023

Chronic penile pain causes significant suffering in men, yet the management of chronic penile pain is not described in current literature. A patient presented with penile pain for 3 months following a tick bite. The pain was debilitating, and prevented him from working or performing routine activities. Extensive workup of the pain did not demonstrate an identifiable cause. The patient underwent dorsal nerve block (DNB), which provided immediate pain relief and continued to provide significant relief for several months. This is the first case of chronic penile pain that was successfully managed with DNB.
Feminism and the Impasse of Whiteness; or, Who's Afraid of Rachel Doležal?
Authors: Wiegman Robyn
Published: August 2023

Who can forget Rachel Doležal—the Africana Studies instructor and head of the Spokane chapter of the NAACP who was outed in 2015 as “born white to white parents” after years of presenting herself as a light-skinned Black woman. By taking up the controversies that have followed Doležal, this paper considers the multifaceted ways that she constitutes a quintessential bad feminist object, even as her “alibi” (which is more a defense) draws on academic feminism's own anti-essentialist investment in social constructionist theories of race and racial identity. In doing so, I am not interested in condoning or rescuing Doležal from critical condemnation but in exploring the problem of thinking about Rachel Doležal for feminist analysis.
Free Sex
Authors: Berg Heather
Published: August 2023

Grounded in sex worker theory, this essay explores paid sex as a confrontation with free sex. Sex worker theorists name an ambivalent relationship to radical feminist thought, finding theoretical affinities in radical feminism's critiques of unpaid heterosexuality while also disidentifying with its whorephobia, whiteness, gender essentialism, and narratives of false conscious. In an invitation for a radical feminism that commits to radical politics, they frame unpaid heterosexuality as a site of exploitation and romance as a bad deal. They articulate a critique of free sex with cis men, but one that is rigorously attentive both to questions of subjectivity and to the inadequacy of gender as a coherent analytic.
Epidemiology of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears in National Collegiate Athletic Association Athletes: 2014/15 – 2018/19
Authors: Dewig Derek R. , Boltz Adrian J. , Moffit Reagan E. , Rao Neel , Collins Christy L. , Chandran Avinash
Published: August 2023

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are prevalent in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sports, and updated epidemiological evidence is needed to adequately inform prevention efforts.

Purpose

To describe the epidemiology of ACL tears in NCAA men’s and women’s sports.

Methods

Injury and exposure data collected within the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program from 2014/15-2018/19 were analyzed. ACL tear frequencies, rates (IRs) and proportions were used to describe injury incidence by sport, event type, injury mechanism, and injury history. Injury rate ratios (IRRs) were utilized to examine differential injury rates, and injury proportion ratios (IPRs) were used to examine differential distributions.

Results

A total of 729 ACL tears were reported from 8,474,401 recorded athlete exposures (AEs) during the study period (IR = 0.86 per 10,000 AEs), and the competition-related ACL tear rate was higher than the practice-related rate (IRR = 5.52, 95% CI: [4.75, 6.39]). Among men’s sports, the highest overall ACL tear rate was observed in men’s football (IR = 1.44 per 10,000 AEs), while among women’s sports, the highest overall rate was observed in women’s soccer (IR = 2.60 per 10,000 AEs). Among sex-comparable sports, ACL tear rates were higher in women’s basketball, softball, and soccer, as compared with their men’s counterparts. ACL tears were more prevalently attributed to player-contact mechanisms in men’s sports than women’s sports (IPR = 1.73, 95% CI: [1.37, 2.19]), while more prevalently attributed to non-contact mechanisms in women’s sports than men’s sports (IPR = 1.17, 95% CI: [1.01, 1.35]).

Conclusions

ACL tear risk in women’s sports continues to warrant attention and prevention efforts. Given the differential rates by event type, future research efforts may also evaluate initiatives to reduce competition-related injury burden in NCAA sports.
Technological Capacity and Environmental Performance: A Research Note Using Country Level Data
Authors: Vachon Stephan
Published: August 2023

This research note examines, at the macro level, the impact of corporations' technology capacity on environmental performance. Technology capacity is loosely defined as the ability of corporations in a country to acquire or develop new technologies. Building on the IPAT equation from industrial ecology, this note proposes that technological capacity is the main channel for environmental performance improvement emerging from corporations. The analysis reveals that generally, technological capacity is linked with aggregate performance indicators and more particularly with higher degree of eco-efficiency. However, it appears that when looking at the absolute value of ecological stress, technological capacity is detrimental.
Initial development and validation of item banks to measure problematic hypersexuality
Authors: van Tuijl Piet , Verboon Peter , van Lankveld Jacques
Published: August 2023

Background: Problematic Hypersexuality (PH) is defined as a distress caused by hypersexuality, to the extent that seeking treatment is considered. PH was previously measured with instruments stemming from different perspectives on PH. These instruments might best be analyzed in unison to discover the most optimal set of characteristics to measure PH.

Methods: A total of 58 items were investigated with Item Response Theory (IRT). We included 1211 participants (592 women, 618 men, 1 other) from a representative Dutch general population sample of 18 years or older. In addition, 371 participants (116 women, 253 men, 2 other) in a web-based survey who sought information on their current level of PH were included – of whom 50.4 % at least considered seeking help for hypersexuality.  

Results: After item selection based on item averages per group, 26 out of 58 items were retained and divided in two scales: Emotion Dysregulation-PH – 9 items representing the distressing emotional patterns coinciding with hypersexual preoccupation –  and Negative Effects-PH – 17 items representing the negative consequences of patterns of hypersexual thoughts and behavior. Assumptions for IRT analyses were met (unidimensionality, local independence and monotonicity). After an IRT graded response model was fit, the scales showed sufficient reliability for the target population of hypersexual individuals. In the general population the scales showed large floor effects and were less reliable.

Conclusions: With this study a first step is taken in validating two complementary item banks to measure PH. Further development of the item banks should include the investigation of responsiveness. New items should be constructed to assess less-explored areas of PH and improve differentiating power of the scales. This study showed that diagnostic accuracy for PH is currently difficult to attain with a survey, even when using an extended item set representing the most unique characteristics of PH.
Language: life of meanings vs the meaning of life
Authors: Beloglazova Elena , Bobyreva Ekaterina , Bozhenkova Raisa , Buryakovskaya Valeriya , Vikulova Larisa , Goncharova Lyubov' , Zheltuhina Marina , Zhukova Arina , Katermina Veronika , Kitanina Ella , Kodzova Zuriet , Malygina Lidiya , Milovanova Marina , Novikova Elina , Saakyan Levon , Severskaya Ol'ga , Serebrennikova Evgeniya , Sorokin Andrey , Tahtarova Svetlana , Hachmafova Zayneta , Shamne Nikolay
Published: August 2023

The monograph presents a comprehensive description of the language in semantic representation and the communicative and pragmatic orientation of its implementation. The research was carried out within the framework of the cognitive-discursive paradigm with the description of conceptual and discursive formations. Language is studied in discursive, linguosemiotic, linguocognitive, linguopragmatic, linguoculturological aspects.
It is addressed to specialists in the field of communication, as well as teachers, graduate students and students of humanities and university specialties.
A Numerically Exact Algorithm for the Bin-Packing Problem
Authors: Baldacci Roberto , Coniglio Stefano , Cordeau Jean-François , Furini Fabio
Published: August 2023

We propose a numerically exact algorithm for solving the Bin-Packing Problem (BPP) based on a branch-price-and-cut framework combined with a pattern-enumeration method. Key to the algorithm is a novel technique for the computation of numerically safe dual bounds for the widely adopted set covering reformulation of the BPP (tightened with additional valid inequalities) with a precision that is higher than the one of general-purpose floating-point solvers. Our branch-price-and-cut algorithm also relies on an exact integer (fixed-point) label setting algorithm for solving the pricing problem associated with the tightened set-covering formulation. To the best of our knowledge, ours is the first algorithm for the BPP that is numerically exact and practical for solving large-scale instances. Extensive computational results on instances affected by notorious numerical difficulties (those of the Augmented Non-IRUP class) show that our exact algorithm outperforms all of the not numerically exact state-of-the-art algorithms based on branch-and-cut-and-price techniques that rely on a set-covering formulation of the BPP.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms − Discrete.