bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectable Hydrogel as Intracanal Medication for Root Canal Disinfection
Authors: Cao M. , Wu D. , Tu H. , Mou B. , Kang J. , Liao J. , Yang J.
Published: February 2025

Due to the complex anatomical structures of the root canal, thorough intracanal disinfection has always been challenging in endodontic treatment. Existing intracanal medicaments exhibit limitations such as low permeability and suboptimal antibacterial performance. Thus, an intracanal medicament that combines excellent operating performance with potent antibacterial properties is required. Therefore, we designed an injectable hydrogel loaded with modified triple antibiotic drugs (mTAD) through a Schiff base reaction of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and polyethylene glycol aldehyde (OHC-PEG-CHO), mTAD/CMCS/OHC-PEG-CHO (mTCP). We subsequently evaluated the characteristics of mTCP. Moreover, the antibacterial capacity of the hydrogels was assessed in vitro. The effects of mTCP on the cell biocompatibility and odonto-/osteogenic differentiation of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) were also examined. Furthermore, we established a periapical inflammation model in the young permanent teeth of a Beagle dog and explored the effects of mTCP on root canal disinfection and root development. Our findings revealed that mTCP exhibited excellent operability, fluidity, and ease of removal from the root canal. mTCP presented outstanding antibacterial efficacy both in vitro and in vivo, attributed to its exceptional permeability and sustained release of mTAD. The odonto-/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs was augmented by adding mTCP. Moreover, mTCP facilitated root elongation, dentinal wall thickening, and apical closure in the Beagle dog model. mTCP exhibited a pronounced effect on promoting periapical tissue healing and root development. In conclusion, mTCP hydrogel has promising potential for root canal disinfection in endodontic therapy.
Pretreatment and Posttreatment Prospective Evaluation of Smell and Taste Dysfunction in Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Bilici Taylan , Ozdemir Suleyman , Çelik Gonca Gul
Published: February 2025

Objective:

This study investigated whether attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has an olfactory dysfunction and, if so, the effect of methylphenidate on this condition.

Methods:

The “Sniffin” Sticks Test and a questionnaire were applied to 50 children with ADHD and 50 healthy children as the control group before and after being treated with methylphenidate.

Results:

There was a statistical difference between ADHD and control groups in odor sensitivity, odor discrimination skills, and odor identification tests ( P < .001). General odor scores decreased in the ADHD group ( P < .001). A statistically significant score increase was also observed after treatment ( P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the taste questionnaire test.

Conclusions:

Although the sense of smell test in our study suggests that it may be a biological marker for diagnosing ADHD, treatment efficacy, and follow-up, further studies need to be conducted in more extensive series and with similar equipment.
Does Criminal Experience Affect a Person’s Perceptual Deterrence of Sanctions and Controlling Mechanisms in China?
Authors: Jiang Shanhe , Jiang Xin , Liu Jianhong , Zhang Dawei
Published: February 2025

Two notable gaps remain undressed in deterrence literature: (a) few studies on perceptual deterrence were conducted in non-Western societies, and (b) a lack of direct comparison between offenders and nonoffenders. This study investigated the perceived risk levels associated with different sanctions and controlling mechanisms and whether criminal experience affects one’s perceived risk levels based on the data drawn from non-offenders and active offenders in China. The study found that most of both offenders and non-offenders either agreed or strongly agreed that capital punishment, imprisonment, and police patrol serve as powerful deterrents to crime. Findings showed that offenders exhibited higher levels of perceived deterrence; personal criminal experience is a significant predictor for the perceived deterrence of neighborhood watches only.
Insights for female teachers on managing learner discipline from perceptions of teachers and parents in Vuwani, Limpopo, South Africa
Authors: Potokri Onoriode Collins , Lumadi Rudzani Israel
Published: February 2025

The thrust of this qualitative study is the insights for female teachers about management of learner discipline from three South African primary schools. The sample comprised of nine purposively selected participants – heads of departments, teachers, and parents. Individual interviews and thematic analysis were used to generate and analyze data. Findings revealed challenges that were brought about by the abolition of corporal punishment in South African schools, thus, impacting on learner discipline negatively. Insightfully, this study requires female teachers to enforce disciplinary measures without allowing their innate caring nature to suppress enforcement because learners often misrepresent them for weakness. The study concludes that the success of managing learner discipline lie greatly in putting in place rules that ensure orderliness. With it, the punishment or ‘beating’ of learners for what is not wrong but for what teachers do not like in some instances could be avoided.
Psychometric and Normative Information on the Child and Adolescent Behavior Inventory With Parent Ratings in a Nationally Representative Sample of Spanish Youth
Authors: Burns G. Leonard , Montaño Juan José , Becker Stephen P. , Servera Mateu
Published: February 2025

Psychometric and normative information is provided for the Child and Adolescent Behavior Inventory (CABI) cognitive disengagement syndrome, anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-inattention, ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity, oppositional defiant disorder, social impairment, peer rejection, withdrawal from peer interactions, and academic impairment scales with a nationally representative sample of Spanish youth. Parents of 5,525 Spanish youth (ages 5–16, 56.1% males) completed the CABI scales on their sons and daughters. Scores on the 10 CABI scales demonstrated excellent reliability, invariance, and validity for males and females within early childhood (ages 5–8), middle childhood (ages 9–12), and adolescence (ages 13–16). Normative information ( T-scores) is provided for females and males within each age group for the 10 CABI scales. The new psychometric and normative information increase the usefulness of the CABI scale scores for research and clinical activities. Copies of the CABI and the norms are available at no cost to professionals.
Interstitial Ruptures: A Décollage
Authors: Freeman Melissa
Published: February 2025

In French, décollage refers to acts of ungluing, unpeeling, or dissolving an image. As an artform, images are torn off, or left to disintegrate, revealing the arbitrariness of the materials that have built society, while also bearing witness to time, impermanence, decay, and waste. In another sense of the word, décollage means to take off, to ascend. Working across both senses, this article considers how revolutionary artforms, such as décollage, can assist qualitative researchers who use artful inquiry “to stay with the trouble of damaged worlds”, rather than eschew this responsibility. Drawing from the strategies used by French décollagists of the mid-20th century and engaging in her own explorations with décollage, the author examines the provocations an embodied double(d) movement of rescue and rupture offers inquiry practices attending to the always-already materializing in the interstices of modernity’s ruins.
Associations between worry about mental and physical health and the use of face masks: Exploring discrimination as a moderator among Black Americans
Authors: Walker Chloe J , Bell Ashlynn , Hood Kristina B , Williams Chelsea Derlan , Santana Arlenis ,   The Spit For Science Working Group, Vassileva Jasmin , Dick Danielle M , Amstadter Ananda B , Bravo Diamond
Published: February 2025

Given the disproportionate impact of COVID-19, it is important to understand factors that may underlie Black American emerging adults’ adherence to safety guidelines that could potentially reduce spread of illness and hospitalization. The current study examined how COVID-19 worry about mental health (CWMH) and COVID-19 worry about physical health (CWPH) predicted use of face masks, and whether perceived discrimination moderated these relations. The sample included 164 Black American emerging adults, age 18–25 ( M = 8.82, SD = 2.06). Findings indicated that perceived discrimination was a moderator, such that at higher levels of discrimination, CWMH predicted use of face masks, but this relation was not significant at lower levels of discrimination. CWPH did not predict use of face masks, and perceived discrimination was not a moderator of this relation. Overall, considering the role of race-related experiences and CWMH is important for understanding the use of face masks among Black Americans.
Assessing melanopic equivalent daylight illuminance in office spaces using a simplified approach for predominantly cloudy climates
Authors: Ticleanu C , Flores-Villa L , Littlefair P , Howlett G
Published: February 2025

Daylight is essential for circadian entrainment, yet current daylighting metrics and guidance do not address this aspect. Latest recommendations for light exposure suggest a daytime melanopic equivalent daylight illuminance (EDI) of 250 lx at the eye. This paper investigates the feasibility of these recommendations using daylight data from Watford, England and computer modelling in example offices achieving the minimum and high levels of recommendation in EN17037. In predominantly cloudy climates, it is impractical to require a specific melanopic EDI every day of the year. Instead, it is more feasible to aim for a certain number of daily hours on a given proportion of annual days. This paper evaluates a metric of achieving four hours with 250 lx melanopic EDI on 90% of annual days. Daylight may be sufficient for circadian entrainment in spaces that meet the high level of recommendation in EN17037 and if facing unobstructed windows. However, facing large windows can cause glare. It is easier to achieve 250 lx melanopic EDI over any four hours throughout the day than just in the morning, although this may not guarantee adequate circadian entrainment. Balancing daylight provision targets and daylight levels for circadian stimulation while limiting glare from daylight is challenging.
Abnormal Ultrasound Characteristics of Seminal Vesicles in Patient With Anejaculation: A Case Report
Authors: Gao Dawei , Gao Qi , Yin Han , Jin Baofang , Sun Dalin
Published: February 2025

Anejaculation (AE) has long been a challenging issue in andrology due to its low clinical reporting rate, leading to an insufficient understanding within the academic community. This case report discusses a 52-year-old AE patient with a long-term history of diabetes mellitus. His seminal vesicles ultrasound images revealed a notable absence of anechoic polycyclic areas, a characteristic not previously reported in AE patients. We hypothesize that this finding is attributable to diabetes-induced seminal vesicles secretory dysfunction, leading to AE in this patient. This case underscores the importance of anechoic polycyclic areas in the physiology of ejaculation and highlights the necessity for further research into the correlation between these areas and various types of ejaculatory disorders, aiming to provide valuable insights for the medical community.
Study on comparison between three point bending and four point bending test condition for functionally graded material beam with crack
Authors: Ganguwar S , Nistane VM
Published: February 2025

Given their distinct composition and gradient structure, cracks in functionally graded materials (FGMs) can provide serious difficulties. Predicting failure and improving material design require an understanding of fracture dynamics in FGMs. The manner in which cracks initiates and propagates can be influenced by the constant changes in material properties. Because of variations in material toughness over the gradient, cracks propagate differently than in homogeneous materials. The FGM is loaded in three point bending and four point bending loading conditions, and the obtained crack propagation angles and crack propagation paths are showcased in the present paper. A functionally graded material beam (FGM) is modeled using dummy thermal load condition for obtaining varying material properties in desired direction for finite element analysis. An initial crack/defect is incorporated in the FGM beam at bottom mid location. The FGM beam is considered as simply supported beam and the same boundary conditions are applied to it. Detailed comparison of crack propagation paths is made between the three point bending and four point bending loading conditions. In case of three point bending loading only mode I condition of failure is occurring, where as in case of four point bending loading all the three modes condition i.e., mode I, II & III of failure is occurring also called as mixed mode failure condition.
What are the lived career experiences of senior operating department practitioners? An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Rollason Lee
Published: February 2025

Operating department practitioners are registered health care practitioners who provide specialist care to patients across the perioperative environment in the disciplines of anaesthetics, surgery and post-anaesthetic care. There is a significant knowledge gap that surrounds the profession in terms of their career experiences. Using a methodology of interpretative phenomenological analysis, the lived career experiences of six senior operating department practitioners were investigated. Seven themes were identified across the experiences of participants addressing a wide range of topics including issues such as professional development, relationships with other health care professionals, sexual safety, student experiences and visibility. Recommendations based on this study include further investigation of operating department practitioner experiences across a wider demographic, an immediate review of how job adverts are constructed to be more inclusive and a call for increased professional visibility of operating department practitioners. Long-term recommendations include a resolution around the use of Patient Group Directives, workplace culture reviews and a review of theatre-attire appropriateness in relation to sexual safety in the perioperative environment.
Effects of inhaled anaesthetic agents on the oxygen dissociation curve: An updated discussion
Authors: Kumar Amarjeet , N Manjunath
Published: February 2025

The oxygen dissociation curve is a critical concept in understanding how oxygen is transported in the blood and delivered to tissues. In anaesthesia, inhaled anaesthetic agents are the fundamental tools for managing anaesthesia during surgical procedures. These agents, such as desflurane, isoflurane, and sevoflurane, are known for effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular stability. However, their impact on haemoglobin’s oxygen-binding capacity, represented by shifts in the oxygen dissociation curve, can have significant effects on patient care. This discussion explores the interactions between inhaled anaesthetic agents and the oxygen dissociation curve, focusing on how these drugs alter haemoglobin’s affinity for oxygen and the potential clinical consequences of such interactions. Clinical implications: oxygen dissociation curve shifts are crucial in patient management, especially in populations with compromised pulmonary function or those undergoing extensive surgeries. Anaesthesia providers must consider these effects when optimising oxygen delivery and anaesthetic depth.
Mechanical properties of masonry using artificial neural networks
Authors: Portilla Santiago , Reyes Juan C , Carrillo Julian , Lasso Juan E
Published: February 2025

Non-engineered construction constitutes a significant portion of the existing housing stock in Colombia and other South American countries. These masonry constructions frequently lack technical and engineering characteristics, affecting their performance under seismic and gravitational loads. The assessment of their mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, shear strength, and shear modulus triggers challenges when using existing models, as experimental results of unreinforced masonry houses often deviate from these theoretical models. To address these challenges, machine learning models using neural networks were proposed to predict masonry mechanical properties. To develop the neural networks, a comprehensive database of experimental results from various tests conducted in Colombia was complied, categorizing data into four main masonry types based on material and masonry units: (1) horizontally hollow clay bricks, (2) vertically hollow clay bricks, (3) solid clay bricks, and (4) vertically hollow concrete bricks. These categories encompass the prevalent types of masonry units used in unreinforced masonry constructions. The neural networks developed herein demonstrate superior performance when compared to existing predictive models in the literature, facilitating their application in structural analyses of masonry. In addition, recalibrated equations were proposed to better reflect the properties of masonry of unreinforced constructions. A user-friendly application was developed to enable practical use of both the database and the predictive models, supporting researches and engineers in characterizing masonry for seismic resilience and retrofitting.
Multiomics provides insights into dynamic changes of aromatic profile during flue-curing process in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaves
Authors: Wang Ruiqi , Zhang Binghui , Gu Gang , Lin Jianfeng , Zhang Wenwei , He Dongwang , Wang Fei , Jin Liao , Xie Xiaofang
Published: February 2025

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) is a globally crop due to its distinctive flavor and economic value. In this study, we systematically analyzed the dynamic changes in volatile substances, broad-spectrum metabolites, enzymes, and biochemical compounds in tobacco leaves during flue-curing process. Combining metabolomics with enzyme activity and biochemical analysis, we identified that 43℃ is a critical period for enzyme activity and metabolite transitions, while 45 ℃ requires stringent moisture control. During the T3 stages, phenolic acids, amino acids, and derivatives were notably enriched, with increases of 19.58-fold, 18.59-fold, and 17.33-fold in lmmn001643, MWS20633g, and Lmhn004756, respectively. These compounds may serve as candidate biomarkers for non-volatile compounds. Aroma dynamics primarily contributed to the green and sweet flavor of flue-cured tobacco leaves, and the key aroma components included D114, KMW1317, and KMW0466. Differential volatile and non-volatile metabolites were enriched in four pathways, including monoterpenoid biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. These pathways are closely related to phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and the synthesis of chlorogenic acid and rutin, which influence the aroma quality, aroma intensity, irritation, and volatility of tobacco. Additionally, the contents of caffeic acid, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and PAL activity in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, increased with the rising temperature, accelerating reactions with alcohols and leading to increase lignin formation. This study enhances our understanding of the dynamic changes in the aroma and metabolic substances of Cuibi 1(CB-1) at the critical stages of the curing process and offers valuable insights for process improvement.
Age and sources of information variations and similarities on awareness of treatment and prevention of stroke among public and outpatients in Sub-Saharan Africa: a cross-sectional questionnaire study in Botswana
Authors: Ookeditse Ookeditse , Ookeditse Kebadiretse K. , Motswakadikgwa Thusego R. , Masilo Gosiame , Bogatsu Yaone , Lekobe Baleufi C. , Mosepele Mosepele , Schirmer Henrik , Johnsen Stein H.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

In this cross-sectional study from Botswana, we investigated awareness of acute stroke treatment and prevention among stroke-risk outpatients and the public based on age and sources of information, in addition to association of stroke risk factors with this awareness.

Method

Questionnaires on awareness of acute stroke treatment and prevention were administered by research assistants to a representative selection of outpatients and the public.

Results

The response rate was 93.0% for the public and 96.6% for outpatients. Public respondents had a mean age of 36.1 ± 14.5 years (age range 18–90 years) and 54.5% were females, while outpatients had a mean age of 37.4 ± 12.7 years (age range 18–80 years) and 58.1% were females. Awareness of medical therapy as acute stroke treatment was inadequate among outpatients (75.5% for public vs 43.4% for outpatients among all-age, p < 0.001), due to awareness differences among all ages. Awareness of stroke prevention was adequate (81.5% of outpatients vs 71.6% of public among all-age, p = 0.601%), and similar trend was observed also among individual age groups. For awareness of medical therapy as an acute stroke treatment among all ages, the public was more likely than outpatients to get stroke information (p < 0.001) from almost all sources of information, while for awareness of stroke prevention among all-age, outpatients were more likely than the public to get stroke information from family/ friends (83.9% vs 70.5%, p = 0.042).

History of HIV/AIDS and having a healthy diet were associated with lower awareness of both acute stroke treatment and prevention (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Results call for strategic educational stroke campaigns using best information relaying tool for each age and respondents’ group.
Community engagement approaches to improve health: a cross-case study analysis of barriers and facilitators in UK practice
Authors: Bagnall Anne-Marie , South Jane , Kinsella Karina , Trigwell Joanne , Sheridan Kevin , Harden Angela
Published: February 2025

Background

Interventions that engage communities have been shown to improve health and wellbeing in disadvantaged groups internationally, but there is little evidence on current community-led practice, particularly in relation to the process of community engagement. This paper presents a qualitative cross-case analysis of barriers & facilitators in six UK community engagement projects, using different models of community engagement.

Methods

The primary sampling criteria was the type of approach to community engagement, using a conceptual framework with four main groups: Strengthening communities; Volunteer and peer roles; Collaborations and partnerships; Connecting to community resources. Qualitative interview-based methods (semi-structured interviews and focus groups) explored community and professional perspectives in depth. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, building within-case studies before comparing findings and using an iterative process to build explanations in a cross-case analysis.

Results

Fifty-five people (28 community stakeholders and 27 professional stakeholders) from six selected case study projects took part in the research. Key themes related to successful community engagement were: trust within the community and between community members and service providers; respect for community members’ expertise; allowing sufficient time for relationships to establish and for outcomes to be seen; commitment of key people; and flexibility.

Conclusions

This qualitative case study research found that in successful community engagement projects, community expertise is respected and valued, allowing community members to be fully involved and take ownership of the projects. Sufficient time should be allowed for this process. Flexibility and adaptation of project materials, protocols and role descriptions is important in overcoming barriers to community engagement.
Predictors of willingness of HPV vaccine uptake across Eight States in Nigeria
Authors: Okagbue Hilary I. , Erekosima Grace , Sampson Sidney , Atuhaire Brian , Samuel Olugbemisola , Chimezie Bright , Dauda Mahfus , Jimoh Akolade , Ogbu Gideon , Ayuba Joshua , Shinshima Iveren
Published: February 2025

Background

The Nigerian Federal Government planned to launch the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine on September 25, 2023. We therefore aimed to assess caregiver awareness and willingness regarding HPV vaccine uptake for girls aged 9–14 across eight states (Abia, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Benue, Enugu, FCT, Jigawa, and Taraba), evaluating public readiness for the vaccine rollout.

Methods

A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted in the eight states using a structured questionnaire. Stratified random sampling was employed to ensure representation from each state’s three senatorial districts. Adult participants’ socio-demographic characteristics—including their relationship to the child, gender, settlement type (rural/urban), and age group—were analyzed. Local Government Area and Senatorial Zone were used solely for geographical representation. Awareness, perceived severity, susceptibility, and willingness for HPV vaccine uptake were calculated based on questionnaire responses. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, ordinal and linear regression, and mediation regression were applied to derive results.

Results

Our findings indicated low general HPV awareness but high willingness for vaccine uptake among caregivers. Northern states exhibited higher awareness, perceived severity, susceptibility, and willingness compared to Southern states. Significant differences emerged across states in awareness and willingness, with positive correlations observed among awareness, severity, susceptibility, and willingness. Multiple linear regression revealed that awareness does not directly predict willingness, while mediation regression demonstrated that awareness indirectly influences willingness through severity and susceptibility. The study’s implications were analyzed using the Health Belief Model (HBM).

Conclusion

Our survey found geopolitical disparities in HPV awareness and willingness across Nigeria. Future interventions should prioritize emphasizing the severity and susceptibility of HPV-related diseases, particularly in low-resource settings. Providing accurate information from trusted sources and addressing misconceptions through evidence-based strategies can enhance informed decision-making regarding HPV vaccination.
Exploring the link between self-rated poor oral health and cardiovascular risk: a cross-sectional study using SCORE2
Authors: Nymberg Peter , Milos-Nymberg Veronica , Grundberg Anton , Oscarson Nils , Stenman Emelie , Sundquist Kristina
Published: February 2025

Background

Poor oral health is associated with several non-communicable diseases including cardiovascular disease. There are also well-known associations between lifestyle habits, cardiovascular disease, and oral health. In Europe, SCORE2 is a recommended instrument for assessing an individual's risk of a cardiovascular event within 10 years. However, no previous studies have examined the association between self-rated oral health and SCORE2.

Using data from a cohort of 40- and 50-year-old individuals in Swedish primary healthcare, the present cross-sectional study investigated the association between self-reported poor oral health and cardiovascular risk assessed with targeted health dialogues and SCORE2.

Methods

40- and 50-year-old individuals registered at 180 primary healthcare centres in southern Sweden were invited to participate in targeted health dialogues. Self-reported oral health and lifestyle habits were collected using a web questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and blood tests were collected. Data were analysed using group comparisons and regression models.

Results

A total of 9499 individuals agreed to participate in the study and completed a targeted health dialogue between January 1, 2021, and January 10, 2024. The group who reported poor oral health had a higher proportion of high waist-hip ratio, insufficient physical activity, poor eating habits and tobacco use compared with individuals with good self-reported oral health. Significantly higher blood pressure was also noted, as well as elevated plasma glucose levels and low-density lipids. The regression analysis showed a significant association between poor self-rated oral health and cardiovascular risk by SCORE2 among both men and women. In the fully adjusted model, the association remained significant only for women.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that individuals with poor self-rated oral health have higher cardiovascular risk and should be offered screening for unhealthy lifestyle habits to prevent cardiovascular events. We suggest that primary healthcare and dental care cooperate in identifying individuals at risk and intervene using evidence-based methods to prevent and address cardiovascular and oral diseases.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov registration number. NCT04912739. Registration date 2021–06-03, retrospectively registered. Ethical approval was secured from the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (registration number 2020–02689 with subsequent amendments).
Virtual reality or personal computer-based gynecologic pelvic exam simulation: medical student preferences
Authors: Plotzker Rosalyn E. , Harmon Derek J. , Kanellitsas Tim , Klein Barbie A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Gynecologic pelvic exams (GPEs) are a required proficiency for healthcare trainees, yet practice opportunities are limited. The Virtual Approach to Gynecology Project aims to supplement traditional learning with a virtual-based GPE module. This study compares trainee experiences using the immersive virtual reality (VR) version to an equivalent non-immersive personal computer (PC) simulation.

Methods

Five groups of 3–5 preclinical medical students were randomized to complete one version of the GPE simulation (either the PC or VR), followed by written feedback and a structured focus group. Each group then completed the other version, after which a second written feedback form was completed, and a final focus group conducted. Focus group comments were recorded, transcribed verbatim and coded. Thematic analysis was performed on coded comments and analysis of written feedback compared Likert-scale responses of VR and PC versions.

Results

Twenty-two individual students enrolled and were assigned to one of five groups. Focus group discussions yielded a total of 138 responses that underwent thematic analysis. VR was unanimously preferred to the PC version, scoring significantly higher Likert-scale responses on ease of use, realism, improved comfort, and confidence. The following 3 themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (1) realism and immersiveness, (2) ease of use, and (3) enjoyment. Compared to PC, VR was found to be more realistic and enjoyable, though both versions had some reported difficulty regarding use.

Conclusion

The immersive VR-based simulation provided a more realistic and enjoyable experience for the GPE simulation compared to the PC-based simulation and was unanimously preferred.
Identification of CSRP1 as novel biomarker for hormone-sensitive prostate cancer by the combination of clinical and functional research
Authors: Pan Chenxi , Wang Wei , He Yi , Yang Bo
Published: February 2025

Prostate cancer (PCa) ranks as the second most common malignancy and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. A critical challenge lies in accurately identifying those patients at high risk for transitioning rapidly from hormone-sensitive PCa (HSPC) to lethal castration-resistant PCa (CRPC). In our study, we employed a multiomics approach involving bioinformatics analysis on datasets GSE2443 and GSE35988, along with proteomics studies, to discover that cysteine- and glycine-rich protein 1 (CSRP1) expression significantly impacts the progression of HSPC. This hypothesis was substantiated through experiments using PC3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cells, where we conducted scratch assays and apoptosis assays, all of which confirmed CSRP1’s role in suppressing tumor growth. Furthermore, we elucidated the inhibitory effect of CSRP1 on tumors by performing xenograft experiments on castrated mice models. To solidify these findings in a clinical context, we constructed a nomogram model integrating CSRP1’s immunohistochemistry data and clinical parameters from an actual patient cohort with HSPC. This model revealed that low CSRP1 expression indeed promotes the advancement towards CRPC. In conclusion, the level of CSRP1 expression can serve as a valuable biomarker for clinicians to predict disease progression in their patients. It has the potential to guide personalized clinical management and decision-making strategies, thereby contributing to more effective and targeted treatment approaches for HSPC patients.
Association of federal poverty level with healthcare expenditures among opioids users in the United States (2008–2019): a serial cross-sectional study
Authors: Bounthavong Mark , Suh Kangho , Sepassi Aryana , Stottlemyer Britney , Spoutz Patrick , Hart Laura , Li Meng
Published: February 2025

Background

Opioid users across federal poverty levels have varying healthcare consumption, which could influence public health policies to address the opioid crisis. To better understand this relationship, we evaluated the associations between federal poverty level (FPL) with healthcare costs and utilizations among adult opioid users in the United States (US).

Methods

A serial cross-sectional study using pooled data (2008–2019) from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) was used to evaluate the association between FPL with healthcare expenditures among a representative sample of the US adult population with > = 1 opioid prescription. FPL was defined as Poor/Near Poor-Income, Low-Income, Middle-Income, and High-Income. Healthcare expenditures included costs and resource utilization. Survey weights were applied to generate standard errors for the representative sample of the US population. Generalized linear models were constructed to evaluate the association between FPL and healthcare expenditures adjusting for confounders. FPL groups were stratified by insurance coverage, frequency of opioid prescriptions filled, and pain level to evaluate their impact on healthcare expenditures.

Results

Total weighted sample was 27,289,263 respondents; 21.6% in Poor/Near Poor-Income, 14.9% in Low-Income, 28.6% in Middle-Income, and 34.9% in High-Income groups. The average annual increase in total healthcare costs for the Poor/Near Poor-Income group was $451 (95% CI: $142-$761), $275 (95% CI: $48-$502) for the Low-Income group, $640 (95% CI: $447-$834) for the Middle-Income group, and $618 (95% CI: $360-$877) for the High-Income group. Between-group comparisons yielded significant increases in average annual total healthcare costs for Middle- and High-Income groups versus Low-Income group; significant increases in average annual emergency room costs between Middle- versus Low-Income groups, and significant increases in average annual inpatient costs between Middle-Income versus Poor/Near Poor- and Low-Income groups. Stratified analyses yielded several significant increases in average annual costs and expenditures. However, no differences were reported for respondents who were uninsured across FPL groups.

Conclusions

Respondents across FPL groups consumed healthcare at various rates, particularly when stratified by insurance coverage, frequency of opioid prescriptions filled, and pain level. FPL plays an important role in healthcare consumption, but further research is needed to understand these mechanisms and their impact on the opioid crisis.
Beyond weight loss: exploring the neurological ramifications of altered gut microbiota post-bariatric surgery
Authors: Almheiri Rashed T. , Hajjar Baraa , Alkhaaldi Saif M. I. , Rabeh Nadia , Aljoudi Sara , Abd-Elrahman Khaled S. , Hamdan Hamdan
Published: February 2025

This review discusses findings related to neurological disorders, gut microbiota, and bariatric surgery, focusing on neurotransmitters, neuroendocrine, the pathophysiology of bacteria contributing to disorders, and possible therapeutic interventions. Research on neurotransmitters suggests that their levels are heavily influenced by gut microbiota, which may link them to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, Depression, and Autism spectrum disorder. The pathophysiology of bacteria that reach and influence the central nervous system has been documented. Trends in microbiota are often observed in specific neurological disorders, with a prominence of pro-inflammatory bacteria and a reduction in anti-inflammatory types. Furthermore, bariatric surgery has been shown to alter microbiota profiles similar to those observed in neurological disorders. Therapeutic interventions, including fecal microbiota transplants and probiotics, have shown potential to alleviate neurological symptoms. We suggest a framework for future studies that integrates knowledge from diverse research areas, employs rigorous methodologies, and includes long-trial clinical control groups.
Telerehabilitation for visual field defects with a multisensory training: a feasibility study
Authors: Bolognini Nadia , Diana Lorenzo , Rossetti Angela , Melzi Lisa , Basso Gianpaolo , Manzo Vittorio , Cruz-Sanabria Francy , Cammarata Gabriella , Cernigliaro Franco , Bianchi Marzoli Stefania , Tinelli Francesca , Fiori Simona , Casati Carlotta
Published: February 2025

Background

Acquired homonymous visual field defects (HVFDs) result in significant disability, reducing quality of life. Spontaneous recovery occurs within the first months, then the likelihood of vision recovery decreases, making rehabilitation necessary. HVFDs rehabilitation is typically lengthy and intensive, done on an outpatient basis, hardly compatible with the return to everyday life. Telerehabilitation represents an option for continuing the therapy in the chronic phase of the disease, offering long-term support after hospital discharge. It also allows individuals with HVFDs to exercise independently, intensively, and actively at home, in a familiar environment, under remote supervision. However, the efficacy of telerehabilitation for chronic HVFDs in adults still requires empirical support.

Methods

This single-arm clinical trial assesses the efficacy of a home-based, remote-supervised, compensatory audio-visual training (AVT) in 26 adults with chronic HVFDs following a brain lesion. Immediate and long-term (up to 6 months) effects on visual field scanning, reading, activities of daily living and mood were assessed. Predictors of treatment-induced gains were also investigated considering behavioral, neuro-ophthalmological (visual field perimetry and visual evoked potentials) and neuroradiological variables (structural imaging of grey- and white-matter damages). Finally, the efficacy of the home-based AVT was compared to that of its in-person version (16 new participants with chronic HVFDs).

Results

Home-based AVT improves accuracy and speed of visual search, reading, mood, and disability in the activities of daily living, with improvements persisting up to 6 months after the end of the training (baseline vs. post-training assessments, all ps < 0.04). Post-treatment gains correlate with the severity of visual search deficit and the efficiency of multisensory integration (rs = -0.7/-0.5, all ps < 0.04). Neuro-ophthalmological and neuroradiological (structural connectivity) parameters are unaffected by the AVT, in line with its compensatory nature, although being associated to its efficacy (all ps < 0.03). Finally, the telerehabilitation version of the AVT produces effects comparable to the in-person AVT.

Conclusion

Multisensory training delivered in telerehabilitation is feasible and effective for ameliorating oculomotor compensation of visual field loss, improving mood and reducing functional disabilities in adults with chronic HVFDs.

Trial registration This study was retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06341777; 26/03/2024).
Comorbidity of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms, and associated factors among under-five children in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Demoze Lidetu , Dessie Awrajaw , Azanaw Jember , Yitageasu Gelila , Asrat Kidist , Gizaw Zemichael
Published: February 2025

Background

Childhood morbidity is frequently characterized by more than one health condition. Children under the age of five in low- and middle-income countries including Ethiopia experience multiple episodes of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms. However, there have been limited studies on comorbidities of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms. In addition, most studies conducted in Ethiopia seek separate outcomes for diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms comorbidity, and associated factors among under-five children in Gondar City.

Methods

Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Gondar City among under-five children from April 05 – May 04, 2023. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to collect a sample of 836. A structured questionnaire was employed through an interview-administered method for data collection at participants’ homes. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were undertaken to identify predictors of childhood comorbidity of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms.

Results

The comorbidity prevalence of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms in under-five children was 17.22% [CI: 14.8%-19.9%]. Mothers/caretaker age < 25 years (AOR = 3.52 at 95% CI:1.64,7.5), mothers/caretakers who had no formal education (AOR = 4.42 at 95% CI: 2.08,9.9.40), family size > 5 (AOR = 4.52 at 95% CI: 2.13,9.61), second birth order (AOR = 2.67 at 95% CI: 1.31,5.41), children playground not clean(AOR = 2.19 at 95% CI:1.01,4.71), started supplementary feeding at age > 6 months (AOR = 4.51 at 95% CI:1.50,13.58), mothers/caretakers who didn’t wash their hands after visiting latrine (AOR = 2.03 at 95% CI: 1.03,4.03), mothers/caretakers who didn’t wash their hands with soap and water (AOR = 1.92 at 95% CI: 1.00,3.69) were significantly associated factors with under five children comorbidity of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms.

Conclusions

According to the findings, the prevalence of diarrhea and respiratory infection symptoms comorbidity was higher and variation in the amount of comorbidity is explained by maternal and child predictors. Educating mothers/caregivers about hand washing, sanitation, hygiene, and supplementary feeding is a key approach for the prevention and control of comorbidities in children.
HnRNPC triggers the degradation of MITA to suppress the interferon-mediated antiviral response
Authors: Zhang Yanwei , Jia Zhao , Yuan Gaoliang , Chen Kangyong , Cen Jing , Wang Junya , Feng Hao , Adamek Mikolaj , Zou Jun
Published: February 2025

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) are a group of 34–120 kDa nuclear proteins that have recently been reported to participate in virus replication. The hnRNP family contains approximately 20 members, including hnRNP A1, hnRNP A2, hnRNP A2B1, hnRNPC, hnRNPD and hnRNPK. HnRNPC plays important roles in RNA biology, including expression, stability, mRNA splicing, nonspecific sequence export and 3’-end processing; however, the mechanisms underlying hnRNPC regulatory roles are not fully understood. Here, we found that zebrafish hnRNPC promoted spring viraemia of carp virus (SVCV) replication by increasing the stability of SVCV phosphoprotein while inhibiting the K48-linked ubiquitination of virus phosphoprotein, thereby suppressing the type I interferon (IFN) response. Mechanistically, hnRNPC could interact with the mediator of IFN regulatory factor 3 activation (MITA) to activate K48-linked ubiquitination for MITA degradation through the C-terminal domain of hnRNPC. We also showed that human hnRNPC could interact with MITA and that the overexpression of human hnRNPC decreased MITA protein in HEK293 cells, suggesting that the negative regulatory effects of hnRNPC on the type I IFN response are evolutionarily conserved. Collectively, our data indicate that hnRNPC promotes virus replication by suppressing IFN production activated by MITA and increasing the availability of viral proteins. Our work reveals an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that controls the IFN-mediated antiviral response by a member of the hnRNP family in vertebrates.
An investigation of the specificity and vividness of autobiographical memories and future events produced in response to disgust-related cues among individuals with eating disorders
Authors: Bektas Sevgi , Haslam Rowan , Hilton Shannon , Himmerich Hubertus , Cardi Valentina , Treasure Janet , Keeler Johanna Louise
Published: February 2025

Background

A deficiency in autobiographical memory functioning could be of relevance to the maintenance of an eating disorder (ED). Past research has found that people with EDs have difficulties in recalling specific details of autobiographical memories (AM) and in imagining future events. Our aim was to investigate AM and episodic future thinking (EFT) in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN), binge-type eating disorders (Bulimia Nervosa or Binge Eating Disorders; BN/BED), and healthy controls (HCs) using negative cue words relevant to the experience of being disgusted and morally violated.

Methods

Remotely administered computerised versions of the autobiographical memory task (AMT) and the EFT task were used to measure the specificity and vividness of AMs and EFTs. Neutral or negative/moral disgust-relevant cues were used to elicit AMs and EFTs. The relationship between AM specificity and EFT specificity was explored. The predictor role of individual differences in childhood teasing and betrayal sensitivity on the specificity and vividness of AMT and EFTs induced by moral disgust-relevant cues was examined.

Results

Individuals with AN and BN/BED did not have difficulties retrieving specific and vivid details of AMs and imagining future events in both cue conditions. AM specificity predicted EFT specificity in AN and HC groups. Future events primed by neutral cues were rated as more vivid by the control group compared to those induced by negative cues. Participants with EDs who had greater levels of childhood teasing and betrayal sensitivity generated more vivid AMs and EFTs in response to moral disgust-related cues, which was not observed in HCs.

Conclusions

This study did not detect alterations in AMT and EFT characteristics in people with AN or binge-type EDs compared with HCs. The findings were discussed regarding sample characteristics (e.g., illness severity, ethnicity) and methodology (e.g., cue words) in the present study. Individual differences in childhood teasing and betrayal sensitivity may be related to more vivid negative memories and future events, which might increase the salience of past and future victimisation-related events.