bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling gender differences in psychophysiological dynamics: support for a two-dimensional autonomic space approach
Authors: Menashri Sinai Yarden , Ma Yaopeng X. J. , Abba Daleski Michal , Gannot Sharon , Bartsch Ronny P. , Gordon Ilanit
Published: March 2024

Introduction

To date, studies focusing on the connection between psychological functioning and autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity usually adopted the one-dimensional model of autonomic balance, according to which activation of one branch of the ANS is accompanied by an inhibition of the other. However, the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches also activate independently; thus, co-activation and co-inhibition may occur, which is demonstrated by a two-dimensional model of ANS activity. Here, we apply such models to assess how markers of the autonomic space relate to several critical psychological constructs: emotional contagion (EC), general anxiety, and positive and negative affect (PA and NA). We also examined gender differences in those psychophysiological relations.

Methods

In the present study, we analyzed data from 408 healthy students, who underwent a 5-min group baseline period as part of their participation in several experiments and completed self-reported questionnaires. Electrocardiogram (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA), and respiration were recorded. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), pre-ejection period (PEP), as well as cardiac autonomic balance (CAB) and regulation (CAR) and cross-system autonomic balance (CSAB) and regulation (CSAR), were calculated.

Results

Notably, two-dimensional models were more suitable for predicting and describing most psychological constructs. Gender differences were found in psychological and physiological aspects as well as in psychophysiological relations. Women's EC scores were negatively correlated with sympathetic activity and positively linked to parasympathetic dominance. Men's PA and NA scores were positively associated with sympathetic activity. PA in men also had a positive link to an overall activation of the ANS, and a negative link to parasympathetic dominance.

Discussion

The current results expand our understanding of the psychological aspects of the autonomic space model and psychophysiological associations. Gender differences and strengths and weaknesses of alternative physiological models are discussed.
A Bi-GRU-attention neural network to identify motor units from high-density surface electromyographic signals in real time
Authors: Lin Chuang , Chen Chen , Cui Ziwei , Zhu Xiujuan
Published: March 2024

To utilize surface electromyographics (sEMG) for control purposes, it is necessary to perform real-time estimation of the neural drive to the muscles, which involves real-time decomposition of the EMG signals. In this paper, we propose a Bidirectional Gate Recurrent Unit (Bi-GRU) network with attention to perform online decomposition of high-density sEMG signals. The model can give different levels of attention to different parts of the sEMG signal according to their importance using the attention mechanism. The output of gradient convolutional kernel compensation (gCKC) algorithm was used as the training label, and simulated and experimental sEMG data were divided into windows with 120 sample points for model training, the sampling rate of sEMG signal is 2048 Hz. We test different attention mechanisms and find out the ones that could bring the highest F1-score of the model. The simulated sEMG signal is synthesized from Fuglevand method (J. Neurophysiol., 1993). For the decomposition of 10 Motor Units (MUs), the network trained on simulated data achieved an average F1-score of 0.974 (range from 0.96 to 0.98), and the network trained on experimental data achieved an average F1-score of 0.876 (range from 0.82 to 0.97). The average decomposition time for each window was 28 ms (range from 25.6  ms to 30.5 ms), which falls within the lower bound of the human electromechanical delay. The experimental results show the feasibility of using Bi-GRU-Attention network for the real-time decomposition of Motor Units. Compared to the gCKC algorithm, which is considered the gold standard in the medical field, this model sacrifices a small amount of accuracy but significantly improves computational speed by eliminating the need for calculating the cross-correlation matrix and performing iterative computations.
Long-term effects of mobile exoneuromusculoskeleton (ENMS)-assisted self-help telerehabilitation after stroke
Authors: Qing Wanyi , Nam Ching-Yi , Shum Harvey Man-Hok , Chan Marko Ka-Leung , Yu King-Pong , Ng Serena Sin-Wah , Yang Bibo , Hu Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

Investigation on long-term effects of robot-assisted poststroke rehabilitation is challenging because of the difficulties in administration and follow-up of individuals throughout the process. A mobile hybrid neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)-robot, i.e., exoneuromusculoskeleton (ENSM) was adopted for a single-group trial to investigate the long-term effects of the robot-assisted self-help telerehabilitation on upper limb motor function after stroke. Twenty-two patients with chronic stroke were recruited to attend a 20-session telerehabilitation program assisted by the wrist/hand module of the ENMS (WH-ENMS). Participants were evaluated before, after, as well as at 3 months and 6 months after the training. The primary outcome measure was the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), supplemented by secondary outcome measures of the FMA-UE of the shoulder and elbow (FMA shoulder/elbow), the FMA-UE of the wrist and hand (FMA wrist/hand), the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), as well as electromyography (EMG) and kinematic measurements. Twenty participants completed the telerehabilitation program, with 19 returning for a 3-month follow-up, and 18 for a 6-month follow-up. Significantly improved clinical scores were observed after the training (p ≤ 0.05). These improvements were maintained after 6 months in the FMA-UE, FMA shoulder/elbow, MAS at the wrist flexor, WMFT score, WMFT time, and FIM (p ≤ 0.05). The maintained improvements in motor function were attributed to reduced muscular compensation, as indicated by EMG and kinematic parameters. The WH-ENMS-assisted self-help telerehabilitation could achieve long-lasting rehabilitative effects in chronic stroke.
Association between plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids and depressive among US adults
Authors: Wang Man , Yan Xiaofang , Li Yanmei , Li Qian , Xu Yingxia , Huang Jitian , Gan Juan , Yang Wenhan
Published: March 2024

Background

Depression is associated with greater functional impairment and high societal costs than many other mental disorders. Research on the association between plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) levels and depression have yielded inconsistent results.

Objective

To evaluate whether plasma n-3 and n-6 PUFAs levels are associated with depression in American adults.

Methods

A cross-sectional study included 2053 adults (aged ≥20 y) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2011–2012. The level of plasma n-3 and n-6 PUFAs were obtained for analysis. Self-reported Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to identify the depression status. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between quartiles of plasma n-3 and n-6 PUFAs and depression after adjustments for confounders.

Results

The study of 2053 respondents over 20 years of age with a weighted depression prevalence of 7.29% comprised 1,043 men (weighted proportion, 49.13%) and 1,010 women (weighted, 50.87%), with a weighted mean (SE) age of 47.58 (0.67) years. Significantly increased risks of depression over non-depression were observed in the third quartiles (OR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.05–2.62) for arachidonic acid (AA; 20:4n-6); the third quartiles (OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.20–4.05) for docosatetraenoic acid (DTA; 22:4n-6); the third (OR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.34–4.07), and highest quartiles (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.03–3.26) for docosapentaenoic acid (DPAn-6; 22:5n-6); and the third (OR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.18–4.03) and highest quartiles (OR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.31–4.68) for docosapentaenoic acid (DPAn-3; 22:5n-3); the second (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.24–3.66), third (OR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.28–4.50), and highest quartiles (OR = 2.24, 95% CI = 1.08–4.69) for AA/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) ratio compared with the lowest quartile after adjusting for confounding factors.

Conclusion

Higher plasma levels of AA, DTA, DPAn-6, DPAn-3 PUFAs, and AA/DHA ratio may be potential risk factors for depression in US adults.
Effect of different salt additions on the taste and flavor-related compounds in chicken soup
Authors: Jia Rong , Yin Xiaoyan , Yang Yucai , Liao Guozhou , Gu Dahai , Pu Yuehong , Wang Guiying
Published: March 2024

Chicken soup is popular among consumers because of its delicious taste, strong flavor, and abundant nutritional value. Twenty-four Yunnan local hens were stewed by adding different amounts of NaCl [1.5, 2, 2.5, 3%, m/m, calculated based on chicken carcass weight; chicken: water = 1:2 (m/m)] to study the effect of salt addition on taste- and flavor-related compounds in chicken soup. Sensory evaluation results showed that the 2 and 2.5% NaCl treatment groups had higher scores. Water-soluble small molecule compounds were detected by LC-Q/TOF-MS based metabolomics approach, among which amino acids and their derivatives, nucleic acids, and small peptides were the main components. The concentration of Water-soluble small molecule substances in chicken soup samples with different salt additions showed a clear trend of separation and reached the highest in the 2.5% NaCl treatment group. Volatile flavor compounds in the chicken soup were analyzed by HS-SPME-GC–MS, including aldehydes, and alcohols, and the relative concentration of flavor compounds in the 2.5% salt treatment group was the highest. In summary, the addition of salt could improve the overall flavor of chicken broth, and the optimal salt addition of NaCl in chicken soup is 2.5%.
Animal model considerations for chordoma research: reproducing the tumor microenvironment in vivo with humanized mice
Authors: Campilan Beatrice , Schroeder Christian , Sagaityte Emilija , Arditi Jonathan , Leary Owen P. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Sullivan Patricia L. Zadnik , Martinez-Moreno Margot
Published: March 2024

Animal models have been commonly used in immunotherapy research to study the cell response to external agents and to assess the effectiveness and safety of new therapies. Over the past few decades, immunocompromised (also called immunodeficient) mice allowed researchers to grow human tumor cells without the impact of the host’s immune system. However, while this model is very valuable to understand the tumor biology and to understand the underlying mechanism of immunotherapy, the results may not always directly translate to humans. The tumor microenvironment has significant implications for tumor engraftment, growth, invasion, etc., and the immune system plays a critical role in shaping the tumor microenvironment. Human immunocompetent mice, also named humanized mice, are engineered mice that possess functional human immune cells. This in vivo model can be used to effectively study the effect of the human immune system to a human implanted tumor. Moreover, this can effectively mimic the response to treatment. This section is an overview of the current understanding of the different humanized mice that could be utilized to mimic the tumor microenvironment in chordoma.
Radical prostatectomy versus radiotherapy as local therapy for primary tumors in patients with oligometastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Ham Won Sik , Park Jee Soo , Jang Won Sik , Kim Jongchan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

We compared radical prostatectomy (RP) and radiotherapy (RT) as local therapies for primary tumors and examined their associations with survival outcomes and urinary tract complications in patients with oligometastatic prostate cancer (omPC).

Methods

We evaluated the data of 85 patients diagnosed with omPC who underwent local therapy for primary tumors between January 2008 and December 2018. Of the 85 patients, 31 underwent prostate RT, while 54 underwent RP. Oligometastatic disease was defined as the presence of fewer than five metastatic lesions without visceral metastasis. Urinary tract complications, progression-free survival (PFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression analyses.

Results

Patients treated with RT showed higher prostate-specific antigen levels. There was no significant difference in the 5-year PFS (52.5% vs. 37.9%, p=0.351), CSS (67.6% vs. 84.7%, p=0.473), or OS (63.6% vs. 73.8%, p=0.897) between the RT and RP groups. In the multivariate analyses, the type of local therapy was not associated with PFS (hazard ratio [HR]=1.334, p=0.356), CSS (HR=0.744, p=0.475), or OS (HR=0.953, p=0.897).

Conclusion

Therefore, RP seems to be a possible treatment option for patients with omPC, exhibiting oncologic outcomes comparable to those with RT.
Different biologics for biological-naïve patients with psoriatic arthritis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Jixia , Ren Yougang
Published: March 2024

Aim: To systematically compare the efficacy and safety of biologics [tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi), interleukin (IL) inhibitors, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors (PDE4i), and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi)] for biological-naïve patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library were comprehensively searched until 12 March 2023. Only head-to-head active comparison studies were included, and placebo-controlled studies without active biologic comparators were excluded. Outcomes included musculoskeletal endpoint [American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20/50/70, resolution of enthesitis, resolution of dactylitis], function endpoint [Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI) change, ∆ HAQ-DI ≥ 0.35], composite index endpoint [ACR 50 + Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) 100], and adverse events. The Jadad scale and Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) were adopted to evaluate the quality of eligible studies.

Results: Totally 17 studies with head-to-head comparisons of these biologics were included in this systematic review and network meta-analysis. Compared with IL-17A inhibitors (IL-17Ai), TNFi were associated with a lower rate of achieving ACR 20 response [pooled risk ratios (RR) = 0.92, 95% credibility interval (CrI): 0.86, 0.98]. JAKi had the greatest possibility of achieving ACR 20 (50.25%) and ACR 50 (83.03%). The JAKi group had a higher rate of achieving ACR 70 response than the IL-17Ai group (pooled RR = 1.25, 95%CrI: 1.00, 1.57); TNFi were less effective than JAKi in terms of ACR 70 (pooled RR = 0.77, 95%CrI: 0.64, 0.94). ACR 70 was most likely to be achieved in patients using JAKi (97.48%). The IL-17Ai group had a higher rate of enthesitis resolution than the TNFi group [pooled RR = 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02, 1.47]. Compared with IL-17Ai, TNFi were associated with a lower rate of enthesitis resolution (pooled RR = 0.80, 95%CrI: 0.72, 0.88). Patients receiving IL-17Ai had the highest likelihood of achieving enthesitis resolution (82.76%), dactylitis resolution (58.66%) and the greatest HAQ-DI change (59.74%). IL-17Ai had a similar impact in achieving ∆ HAQ-DI ≥ 0.35 to TNFi (pooled RR = 1.15, 95%CI: 0.93, 1.41). Individuals receiving IL-17Ai had a higher rate of achieving combined ACR 50 and PASI 100 response than those receiving TNFi (pooled RR = 1.56, 95%CI: 1.29, 1.88). Patients receiving PDE4i were least likely to have adverse events (41.59%).

Conclusion: In 2023, considering both efficacy and safety, IL-17Ai may be the better treatment option for biological-naïve patients with PsA requiring biological therapy.
Effect of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor on nasal potential difference and lung function in Phe508del rats
Authors: Reyne Nicole , Cmielewski Patricia , McCarron Alexandra , Smith Ronan , Schneider-Futschik Elena , Eikelis Nina , Pirakalathanan Piraveen , Parsons David , Donnelley Martin
Published: March 2024

Introduction:Phe508del is the most common cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene variant that results in the recessive genetic disorder cystic fibrosis (CF). The recent development of highly effective CFTR modulator therapies has led to significant health improvements in individuals with this mutation. While numerous animal models of CF exist, few have a CFTR mutation that is amenable to the triple combination therapy elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ETI).

Methods: To determine the responsiveness of Phe508del rats to ETI, a baseline nasal potential difference was measured. Subsequently, they received ETI daily for 14 days, after which post-treatment nasal potential difference, lung mechanics (via flexiVent) and lung ventilation (via X-ray Velocimetry) were assessed.

Results: Chloride ion transport in nasal airways was restored in Phe508del rats treated with ETI, but neither lung mechanics nor ventilation were significantly altered.

Discussion: These findings validate the usefulness of this rat model for future investigations of modulator therapy in CF.
Extracellular vesicles in chronic kidney disease: diagnostic and therapeutic roles
Authors: Zheng Yixuan , Wang Hui , Li Xueying , Xie Jing , Fan Junming , Ren Sichong
Published: March 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disorder characterized by structural and functional changes in the kidneys, providing a global health challenge with significant impacts on mortality rates. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), are vital in the physiological and pathological processes associated with CKD. They have been shown to modulate key pathways involved in renal injury, including inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Currently, the application research of EVs in the diagnosis and treatment of CKD is highly prevalent. However, there is currently a lack of standardized guidelines for their application, and various methodologies have advantages and limitations. Consequently, we present an comprehensive summary elucidating the multifaceted involvement of EVs in both physiological and pathological aspects in CKD. Furthermore, we explore their potential as biomarkers and diverse therapeutic roles in CKD. This review provides an overview of the current state of research on application of EVs in the diagnosis and therapeutic management of CKD.
Landscape of m6A RNA methylation regulators in liver cancer and its therapeutic implications
Authors: Zhao Jindu , Li Guo-Ying , Lu Xian-Ying , Zhu Li-Ran , Gao Qun
Published: March 2024

Liver cancer remains as the third leading cause of cancer-related death globally as of 2020. Despite the significant progress made in the field of liver cancer treatment, there is still a lack of effective therapies in patients with advanced cancer and the molecular mechanisms underlying liver cancer progression remain largely elusive. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, as the most prevalent and abundant internal RNA modification in eukaryotic RNAs, plays an essential role in regulating RNA metabolism including RNA splicing, stability, translation, degradation. To date, there is mounting evidence showing that m6A dysregulation is closely associated with the onset and development of many tumors including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and hepatoblastoma (HB). In this review, we summarize the last research progress regarding the functions of m6A-related regulators in liver cancer and its underlying mechanisms. Additionally, we also discuss the therapeutic applications of m6A-based inhibitors in liver cancer treatment.
Revolutionizing agriculture with artificial intelligence: plant disease detection methods, applications, and their limitations
Authors: Jafar Abbas , Bibi Nabila , Naqvi Rizwan Ali , Sadeghi-Niaraki Abolghasem , Jeong Daesik
Published: March 2024

Accurate and rapid plant disease detection is critical for enhancing long-term agricultural yield. Disease infection poses the most significant challenge in crop production, potentially leading to economic losses. Viruses, fungi, bacteria, and other infectious organisms can affect numerous plant parts, including roots, stems, and leaves. Traditional techniques for plant disease detection are time-consuming, require expertise, and are resource-intensive. Therefore, automated leaf disease diagnosis using artificial intelligence (AI) with Internet of Things (IoT) sensors methodologies are considered for the analysis and detection. This research examines four crop diseases: tomato, chilli, potato, and cucumber. It also highlights the most prevalent diseases and infections in these four types of vegetables, along with their symptoms. This review provides detailed predetermined steps to predict plant diseases using AI. Predetermined steps include image acquisition, preprocessing, segmentation, feature selection, and classification. Machine learning (ML) and deep understanding (DL) detection models are discussed. A comprehensive examination of various existing ML and DL-based studies to detect the disease of the following four crops is discussed, including the datasets used to evaluate these studies. We also provided the list of plant disease detection datasets. Finally, different ML and DL application problems are identified and discussed, along with future research prospects, by combining AI with IoT platforms like smart drones for field-based disease detection and monitoring. This work will help other practitioners in surveying different plant disease detection strategies and the limits of present systems.
Genetic complexity of cassava brown streak disease: insights from qPCR-based viral titer analysis and genome-wide association studies
Authors: Nandudu Leah , Sheat Samar , Winter Stephan , Ogbonna Alex , Kawuki Robert , Jannink Jean-Luc
Published: March 2024

Cassava, a vital global food source, faces a threat from Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD). CBSD results from two viruses: Cassava brown streak virus (CBSV) and Ugandan cassava brown streak virus (UCBSV). These viruses frequently pose challenges to the traditional symptom-based 1-5 phenotyping method due to its limitations in terms of accuracy and objectivity. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) offers precise virus quantification, although high costs hinder its widespread adoption. In this research, we utilized qPCR to measure the viral titer/load of CBSV and UCBSV. The objectives were to evaluate titer variability within the Cycle 2 (C2) population in two different environments, establish connections between viral titers and CBSD severity scores from the 1-5 scoring method, perform Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) to identify genomic regions associated with CBSV and UCBSV titers, and investigate the functional annotated genes. The results demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of CBSV (50.2%) in clones compared to UCBSV (12.9%) with mixed infections in some cases. Genotypic effects, particularly concerning UCBSV, were significant, with genotype-by-environment effects primarily influencing CBSV titer. GWAS Studies identified genomic regions associated with CBSV and UCBSV titers. Twenty-one SNP markers on chromosomes 10, 13, 17, and 18 exhibited significant associations with CBSV titer, collectively explaining 43.14% of the phenotypic variation. Additionally, 25 SNP markers on chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 13, 16, and 18 were associated with UCBSV titer, and explained 70.71% of the phenotypic variation. No shared genomic regions were identified between CBSV and UCBSV viral titers. Gene ontology analysis also revealed diverse gene functions, especially in transport and catalytic activities. These findings enhance our understanding of virus prevalence, genetics, and molecular functions in cassava plants, offering valuable insights for targeted breeding strategies.
Growing through adversity: the relation of early childhood educator post-traumatic growth to young children’s executive function
Authors: Clark Caron A. C. , Hatton-Bowers Holly , Akhavein Kimia , Rasby Sarah , Parra Gilbert R.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Early childhood educators (ECEs) play a critical role in supporting the development of young children’s executive functions (EF). EF, in turn, underpins lifelong resilience and well-being. Unfortunately, many ECEs report adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that may compound high stress levels associated with an emotionally and physically demanding profession. ACEs have well-established negative implications for adult well-being and may dampen ECEs’ capacities to engage in emotionally responsive interactions with children. However, many individuals who experience ACEs also report post-traumatic growth experiences that foster empathy, self-determination, and resilience. Such post-traumatic growth may equip teachers with skills to engage in responsive interactions with children that support children’s EF. The aim of this study was to explore the relations of ECE ACEs and post-traumatic growth to the EF of children in their classrooms.

Methods

Fifty-three female ECEs self-reported on their ACEs and post-traumatic growth. Parents of 157 children (53% male, 47% female, M age = 4.38 years) rated children’s EF.

Results

In a set of linear mixed models that accounted for multiple demographic factors and ECE perceived workplace stressors, ECE ACEs were not significantly related to children’s EF scores. However, controlling for ACEs, higher levels of ECE post-traumatic growth were associated with fewer parent-reported EF difficulties in children.

Discussion

ECEs may draw on the coping skills they have developed in times of adversity to model and promote healthy EF for children. Mental health supports to facilitate ECEs’ processing of their own trauma may be a fruitful means to foster positive early childhood environments that nurture the well-being and resilience of future generations.
Evaluation of a multi-site health services psychology training program for telehealth and integrated behavioral health
Authors: McCord Carly , Garney Whitney , Garcia Kristen , Macareno Blanca , Williamson Meredith
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Training future providers in telehealth and integrated care models can improve access and outcomes, especially among rural and underserved populations. The (blinded) project implemented behavioral health training for health service psychology doctoral students with three partner organizations. Trainees received both experiential and didactic training in telehealth and integrated behavioral health. Telehealth was utilized for remote warm hand-offs, hybrid shared appointments, therapy sessions, coordination with providers, and supervision. Program elements included opportunities for consultations with experts in other disciplines, supportive mentorship, exposure to various parts of a healthcare system, and interactions with diverse clients.

Methods

The (blinded) training program evaluated trainee outcomes using fourteen interviews and three focus groups. Interviews and focus groups examined aspects of the program that contributed to trainees’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes.

Results

Evaluation results revealed increased levels of trainee confidence, autonomy and independence. Training reportedly enabled improved ability to collaborate and communicate with other professions, increased flexibility and adaptability, and openness to others’ ideas. Trainees reported the program’s use of telehealth enhanced awareness of their own skills and team members’ perspectives of technology in care delivery.

Discussion

Descriptions of the three care models, lessons learned, and qualitative results about trainee outcomes can be translated into best practices for workforce development and enhance psychology trainees’ self-awareness and ability to incorporate others’ viewpoints about technology and treatment approaches into healthcare.
Examining a sentiment algorithm on session patient records in an eating disorder treatment setting: a preliminary study
Authors: Huisman Sophie M. , Kraiss Jannis T. , de Vos Jan Alexander
Published: March 2024

Background

Clinicians collect session therapy notes within patient session records. Session records contain valuable information about patients’ treatment progress. Sentiment analysis is a tool to extract emotional tones and states from text input and could be used to evaluate patients’ sentiment during treatment over time. This preliminary study aims to investigate the validity of automated sentiment analysis on session patient records within an eating disorder (ED) treatment context against the performance of human raters.

Methods

A total of 460 patient session records from eight participants diagnosed with an ED were evaluated on their overall sentiment by an automated sentiment analysis and two human raters separately. The inter-rater agreement (IRR) between the automated analysis and human raters and IRR among the human raters was analyzed by calculating the intra-class correlation (ICC) under a continuous interpretation and weighted Cohen’s kappa under a categorical interpretation. Furthermore, differences regarding positive and negative matches between the human raters and the automated analysis were examined in closer detail.

Results

The ICC showed a moderate automated-human agreement (ICC = 0.55), and the weighted Cohen’s kappa showed a fair automated-human (k = 0.29) and substantial human-human agreement (k = 0.68) for the evaluation of overall sentiment. Furthermore, the automated analysis lacked words specific to an ED context.

Discussion/conclusion

The automated sentiment analysis performed worse in discerning sentiment from session patient records compared to human raters and cannot be used within practice in its current state if the benchmark is considered adequate enough. Nevertheless, the automated sentiment analysis does show potential in extracting sentiment from session records. The automated analysis should be further developed by including context-specific ED words, and a more solid benchmark, such as patients’ own mood, should be established to compare the performance of the automated analysis to.
Incidence and risk factors for psychological distress in adult female patients with breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tao Lin , Xiang Yuping , Zeng Xiaohong , Fu Lan , Li Junying , Chen Hong
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Cancer-related distress can be described as a complex and unpleasant combination of psychological (such as cognitive, behavioral, and emotional), social, and spiritual challenges that may impact an individual’s ability to effectively cope with the physical symptoms of cancer and its treatment. Existing literature has confirmed psychological distress (PD) as an important sequela of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, the incidence and risk factors for PD in adult female patients with breast cancer remain unclear; therefore, focusing on the PD of female breast cancer patients is meaningful, as they are at highest risk of contracting breast cancer, and might differ in their coping styles from men.

Objective

This review aimed to identify the incidence and risk factors for PD in adult woman patients with breast cancer, and to help guide targeted intervention to prevent distress.

Method

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAL, PsycINFO, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, Wanfang Database, the Chinese Biomedical Database, and Weipu Database were searched for data regarding the incidence and risk factors of PD in adult women with breast cancer.

Results

The prevalence of PD, assessed using the distress thermometer, ranged between 11.2%–86.7%, and a meta-analysis of 47 studies with 15,157 adult female breast cancer patients showed that the pooled prevalence was 52.0%. Further, this study identified 40 risk factors. However, owing to the inclusion of at least two studies for a certain risk factor, 10 risk factors were merged for the meta-analysis. Independent risk factors included higher education level, late-stage tumor, emotional concerns, no medical insurance, modified radical mastectomy, and history of depression; age and neuroticism were not associated with PD; and higher monthly income was revealed as a protective factor against it.

Conclusion

The incidence of PD in female patients with breast cancer is high and it involves 10 risk factors, though some are controversial owing to insufficient evidence. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of PD and develop risk factor-based holistic intervention programs to reduce its incidence.

Systematic review registration

The protocol of this study has been registered in the database PROSPERO (registration ID: CRD42023433578).
Exploring a career pathway for home support workers in Ireland: a systematic scoping review of the international evidence
Authors: Morrow Elizabeth , Kelly Carmel , Killeen Clodagh , Naessens Edward , Lynch Mary
Published: March 2024

Background

In prosperous nations like Ireland, home support workers (HSWs) play an increasingly vital role in providing person-centred care to ageing populations. However, challenges such as workforce shortages, role ambiguity, low pay, and limited career advancement, hinder workforce development and career building.

Method

A scoping review using key terms for “HSWs” and “career pathways” was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology, examining electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PscyINFO, Social Care Online, Social Sciences Citation Index). Inclusion criteria were applied, and a thematic analysis followed and inductive-deductive approach.

Results

The review encompassed 261 relevant articles from different countries. Four key themes were identified: (1) Data-driven decision-making on the future workforce, (2) Attracting and developing a competent and motivated home support workforce, (3) Enhancing working lives and retention at every stage of career pathways, and (4) Crafting career pathways to improve quality and impact.

Discussion

Leadership, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making across policy, research and practice are pivotal for expanding and enhancing home support. Emphasising a shift towards preventative self-management models, supported by digitally skilled and regulated HSWs, could enhance independence and quality of care. Clear career structures, professional development, and inclusive organisational environments are essential to attract, retain, and empower a competent and motivated workforce, fostering quality and impact.

Conclusion

This scoping review provides foundational evidence to establish career pathways for HSWs, identifying key areas for development such as data collection, care model transformation, career progression structures, and systems for safety and quality improvement.
Enhancing walking efficiency of adolescents with neurological impairments using an exosuit for ambulatory activities of daily living
Authors: Basla Chiara , Mariani Giulia , Wolf Peter , Riener Robert , van Hedel Hubertus J. A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Children and adolescents with neurological impairments face reduced participation and independence in daily life activities due to walking difficulties. Existing assistive devices often offer insufficient support, potentially leading to wheelchair dependence and limiting physical activity and daily life engagement. Mobile wearable robots, such as exoskeletons and exosuits, have shown promise in supporting adults during activities of daily living but are underexplored for children.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study to examine the potential of a cable-driven exosuit, the Myosuit, to enhance walking efficiency in adolescents with diverse ambulatory impairments. Each participant walked a course including up-hill, down-hill, level ground walking, and stairs ascending and descending, with and without the exosuit’s assistance. We monitored the time and step count to complete the course and the average heart rate and muscle activity. Additionally, we assessed the adolescents’ perspective on the exosuit’s utility using a visual analog scale.

Results: Six adolescents completed the study. Although not statistically significant, five participants completed the course with the exosuit’s assistance in reduced time (time reduction range: [-3.87, 17.42]%, p-value: 0.08, effect size: 0.88). The number of steps taken decreased significantly with the Myosuit’s assistance (steps reduction range: [1.07, 15.71]%, p-value: 0.04, effect size: 0.90). Heart rate and muscle activity did not differ between Myosuit-assisted and unassisted conditions (p-value: 0.96 and 0.35, effect size: 0.02 and 0.42, respectively). Participants generally perceived reduced effort and increased safety with the Myosuit’s assistance, especially during tasks involving concentric contractions (e.g., walking uphill). Three participants expressed a willingness to use the Myosuit in daily life, while the others found it heavy or too conspicuous.

Discussion: Increased walking speed without increasing physical effort when performing activities of daily living could lead to higher levels of participation and increased functional independence. Despite perceiving the benefits introduced by the exosuit’s assistance, adolescents reported the need for further modification of the device design before using it extensively at home and in the community.
Read like a man: comparing narratives of masculinity in adolescent literature
Authors: Hernandez Francisco , Macaluso Michael
Published: March 2024

Recent movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp have surfaced and challenged ideas about masculinity in popular conversations. In particular, these ideas have centered around “toxic masculinity”—a version of masculinity that reflects stereotyped, dated, and even dangerous expectations for manhood. This notion of masculinity can be reinforced in a number of ways, especially through pop culture, where it runs the risk of becoming commonly accepted or normalized. This study evaluates the narratives of masculinity in three different novels that are marketed toward high school-aged students in the United States: Lord of the Flies; Gabi, A Girl in Pieces; and Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. Using a critical literacy lens, this study considers the symbols, behaviors, expectations, and meanings given to masculinity in and through each novel and considers the implications of this analysis for adolescent readership inside and outside of schooling. The study concludes that the more contemporary novels showcase a range of masculine portrayals, including positive, affirming versions of masculinity, compared to a more singular and pessimistic one found in a novel traditionally used in schools. Thus, the study concludes that formal schooling may be an important way to address and disrupt unhealthy versions of masculinity.
Primordial black hole formation during slow-reheating: a review
Authors: Padilla Luis E. , Hidalgo Juan Carlos , Gomez-Aguilar Tadeo D. , Malik Karim A. , German Gabriel
Published: March 2024

In this paper we review the possible mechanisms for the production of primordial black holes (PBHs) during a slow-reheating period in which the energy transfer of the inflaton field to standard model particles becomes effective at slow temperatures, offering a comprehensive examination of the theoretical foundations and conditions required for each of formation channel. In particular, we focus on post-inflationary scenarios where there are no self-resonances and the reheating epoch can be described by the inflaton evolving in a quadratic-like potential. In the hydrodynamical interpretation of this field during the slow-reheating epoch, the gravitational collapse of primordial fluctuations is subject to conditions on their sphericity, limits on their spin, as well as a maximum velocity dispersion. We show how to account for all conditions and show that PBHs form with different masses depending on the collapse mechanism. Finally we show, through an example, how PBH production serves to probe both the physics after primordial inflation, as well as the primordial powerspectrum at the smallest scales.
The characteristics of several varieties and the effect of cropping management design on the level of pest damage and seed yield of soybeans in rainfed lowland rice fields
Authors: Fattah Abdul , Hannan Muhammad Fitrah Irawan , Yasin M. , Harnowo Didik , Nugraha Yudhistira , Wulanningtyas Heppy Suci , Najamuddin Erwin , Saenong Sudjak , Rahman Ayyub Ar , Winanda Elisa , Hasanuddin Rahmi , Rohimatun  , Sebayang Amelia , Nurhafsah  , Andriyani Ida
Published: March 2024

Design of cropping method and type of variety are one of the most important factors in increasing soybean productivity and the level of pest attack and predator populations. This study aims to determine the most effective planting method and variety types in an effort to increase soybean productivity in rainfed lowland areas in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The design used in this study was the split plot design, and the varieties (PU) used were as follows: (1) Detap-1, (2) Devon-1, and (3) Derap-1. However, the subplot (AP) was a planting method and three replicates: (1) farmer’s transplanting method (transplanting row: 20 cm × 20 cm), (2) method of transplanting double rows, and (3) method of transplanting three rows. The results showed that the highest number of branchesper plant was observed in the Legowo three planting method with the Detap-1 variety. The lowest level of leaf damage due to Spodoptera litura attack was observed in the Legowo double rows planting method with the Devon-1 variety (11.07%), and the highest level of leaf damage was observed in the jajar horn planting method (farmer’s method) with the Derap-1 variety (16.47%). The level of pod damage due to Etiella zinckenella attack was the lowest on Legowo three planting method on the Derap-1 variety (9.47%) and the highest on the Legowo double rows planting method on the Detap-1 variety (14.26%). The level of pod damage due to attack by pod-sucking pest Riptortus linearis was the lowest on Legowo three planting method on the (Derap-1) variety (8.02%) and the highest on the pod-sucking pest Riptortus linearis on the Devon-1 variety (13.43%). The length of the trichomes on soybean leaves was the highest on the Devon-1 variety (30.93%) and the lowest on Derap-1 (24.81). The highest number of trichomes on soybean leaves was on the Derap-1variety (57.67) and the lowest on the Devon-1 variety (32.20). The highest length of trichomes was on soybean pods on Detap-1 (29.11) and the lowest on Devon-1 (26.52), while the highest number of trichomes in soybean pods was on Devon-1 (222.47) and the lowest on Derap-1 (148.40). The highest seed yield was observed in Legowo three panting method with Derap-1 and Devon-1 varieties (2.02–2.08 t ha−1).
Computational insights in cell physiology
Authors: Dupont Geneviève , Gonze Didier
Published: March 2024

Physiological processes are governed by intricate networks of transcriptional and post-translational regulations. Inter-cellular interactions and signaling pathways further modulate the response of the cells to environmental conditions. Understanding the dynamics of these systems in healthy conditions and their alterations in pathologic situations requires a “systems” approach. Computational models allow to formalize and to simulate the dynamics of complex networks. Here, we briefly illustrate, through a few selected examples, how modeling helps to answer non-trivial questions regarding rhythmic phenomena, signaling and decision-making in cellular systems. These examples relate to cell differentiation, metabolic regulation, chronopharmacology and calcium dynamics.
Stigmatized Stroke? A Qualitative Study of Perception of Stroke Among Community Residents With Hypertension
Authors: Wan Meijuan , Liu Xiaoxu , Zhang Mengdi , Cui Zixin , Zhao Wenjuan , Li Jianzhou , Lin Shumei
Published: March 2024

Objectives: To understand the perception of stroke in the hypertensive population. Hypertension is the primary risk factor for stroke, and current approaches to stroke prevention are inadequate and often fragmented. Understanding the perception of stroke among individuals with hypertension is crucial for a targeted approach. However, empirical evidence on this perception is limited.

Methods: A qualitative design involved thematic analysis of focus groups and interview data from urban China with hypertension. Audio recordings were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis.

Results: Three themes were identified. Hypertensive participants first identified stroke patients by their obvious physical disability, and then identified the disease as a negative thing. Finally, they wanted to stay away from stroke, but paradoxically, there is a contradictory approach to avoidance and prevention, such as being willing to prevent the disease or simply avoiding socializing with stroke patients.

Conclusion: Hypertensive patients hold complex and diverse perceptions of stroke, including a certain stigma. Future public health education should prioritize improving media promotion and fostering interaction between patients with hypertension and stroke in the community.
Guidance and Control for Safe Contactless Plume Impingement Operations to Detumble an Uncooperative Spacecraft
Authors: Borelli Giacomo , Gaias Gabriella , Colombo Camilla
Published: March 2024

In recent years, the interest in proximity operations to uncooperative and non-collaborative objects has been growing and and demanding for specific technology advances to tackle these challenging cases of in-orbit servicing and removal missions. Indeed, these architectures hold a crucial role in guaranteeing future sustainable and efficient space operations. One of the main challenges of conducting robotic operations with a chaser in close proximity to an uncooperative object stems from its rotational motion. A tumbling motion of a large target object may require a costly and complex synchronisation of the servicer relative trajectory to the capture point and hinder the safety of operations due to rotating appendages. In this paper, the plume impingement strategy is employed to control the target’s tumbling motion in a contactless fashion, thus guaranteeing feasible approach and capture operations. Specifically, guidance and control strategies to be employed during this delicate and complex operation are devised, focusing on improving the safety of the trajectory while maximising the efficiency of the impingement effect during proximity flight. Simulations discuss the detumbling of a satellite of a large constellation, critically comparing delta-v cost, trajectory safety and overall time of operations.