bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which horticultural activities are more effective for children’s recovery from stress and mental fatigue? A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Guo Le , Xu Wei , Shi Yuyi , Gao Shuguang , Xiao Chengxiang , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Liu Xifan , Zhang Qingyu , Zhang Yanlong
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Studies have established the benefits of horticultural therapy and activities for human health and well-being. Nonetheless, limited research has been conducted on the potential restorative advantages and distinctions between different types of horticultural activities in terms of stress reduction.

Methods

This study employed a quantitative research method to investigate the stress recovery benefits of five horticultural activities (flower arrangement, sowing and transplanting seeds, kokedama crafting, pressed flower card making, and decorative bottle painting with dried flowers) and one reference activity (short composition writing) for children. The experiment was conducted in a children’s activity center’s multi-purpose classroom with 48 elementary students aged 9–12 years. The subjects first took a stress test to induce stress and then engaged in horticultural activities for 20 min. Physiological stress was assessed using electrocardiograms and electroencephalograms as feedback indicators. Psychological and emotional changes were determined using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule for Children and Self-Assessment Manikin scales.

Results

The results demonstrated that horticultural activities greatly reduced physiological fatigue, and their recovery benefits were significantly greater than those of the reference activity. The recovery effects from different horticultural activities were similar across physiological indicators, although flower arrangement and sowing and transplanting seeds exhibited relatively robust recovery benefits. The heart rate and α-EEG-based generalized estimating equation revealed that horticultural activities offered significantly better relative recovery at each time phase of operation than the reference activity, with girls showing a 3.68% higher relative recovery value than boys. Flower arrangement and kokedama crafting offered better physiological recovery for students with prior horticultural experience, and these two activities received the highest scores in terms of positive effects and the “pleasure” dimension. Students believed that participating in horticultural activities resulted in a noteworthy increase in personal confidence and a greater sense of achievement.

Conclusion

The study suggests that horticultural activities that involve real and vibrant plants or natural materials and are more attractive have more stress-relieving benefits. We conclude that horticultural activities are beneficial leisure activities that aid in stress relief for children and that it is important to consider the attributes of activities when developing horticultural programs for elementary students.
Exploring the relationships among music performance anxiety, teaching anxiety, and self-efficacy of Chinese preservice music teachers
Authors: Cui Cancan , Xie Xin , Yin Yue
Published: April 2024

This quantitative study aimed to explore the relationships among music performance anxiety (MPA), teacher anxiety (TA), and self-efficacy (SE) through a survey study of Chinese preservice music teachers (N = 237). We also examined gender, grade, primary instrument, secondary instrument, music learning time length, and time spent in four activities: peer teaching, practicum, internship, and private teaching as potential predictors of MPA, TA, and SE. Results indicated that the higher the self-efficacy, the lower music performance anxiety and teaching anxiety; Simultaneously, the increased music performance anxiety was associated with an increased teaching anxiety. Partial correlation results indicated a significant but negative correlation between TA and SE with MPA controlled. Teaching anxiety, followed by primary piano, was the strongest predictor of MPA. MPA, followed by SE and peer teaching, was the strongest predictor of TA. TA, followed by grade level, was the strongest predictor of SE. The results from the multivariate analysis of variance revealed that the SE of male preservice music teachers were significantly higher than their female counterparts. As a study implication, music teacher educators may consider interventions and support mechanisms that address both types of anxiety simultaneously to improve overall teacher preparedness.
The Cultural Formulation Interview as a clinical tool in the assessment of eating disorders: a pilot study
Authors: Strand Mattias , Welch Elisabeth , Bäärnhielm Sofie
Published: April 2024

Background

The Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) in the DSM-5 is a person-centered instrument for systematically appraising the impact of sociocultural factors in psychiatric assessment. The CFI has been shown to be feasible, acceptable, and useful in various clinical contexts. However, to this date there is only one published report describing the use of the CFI with patients with eating disorders.

Aims

To explore the potential benefits and challenges of utilizing the CFI in the assessment of eating disorders.

Methods

As an addendum to an ongoing qualitative study about barriers to treatment for eating disorders for individuals with a migration background in Sweden, we utilized the CFI in the assessment of adult patients (n=8) in specialist eating disorder treatment. Interview data were analyzed employing a thematic analysis framework. Participants provided feedback using a standard form for evaluation of the CFI.

Results

Certain CFI questions proved especially meaningful in this context. In response to the CFI question about patient explanatory models, previously unrecognized ideas about causation emerged. These included perfectionism—a known risk factor for eating disorders—based on immigrant parents’ career expectations and experiences of strict family control over life choices. In response to the CFI questions on cultural identity and its impact, the participants provided rich descriptions including important themes such as religion, racism, and ambiguities associated with being a second-generation immigrant. The final CFI question, eliciting concern about the patient-clinician relationship, revealed numerous examples of prejudice and unfamiliarity with migrant groups among healthcare providers.

Implications

The CFI can be useful in the assessment of patients with eating disorders and should be further explored as a standard tool in specialist eating disorder services.
Sex and gender differences in social participation among community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review
Authors: Ong Chuan Hong , Pham Bang Linh , Levasseur Mélanie , Tan Guang Rong , Seah Betsy
Published: April 2024

Background

Frequent social participation among older adults is associated with greater health. Although understanding how sex and gender influence social participation is important, particularly in developing sex-inclusive health promotion and preventive interventions, little is known about factors influencing engagement of older women and men in social activities.

Aim

This study thus aimed to examine factors influencing social activities of older women and men.

Methods

A mixed-method systematic review was conducted in nine electronic databases from inception to March 2023. The studies had to define social participation as activities with others and examine its influencing factors among community-dwelling older women and men. Data were analyzed using convergent synthesis design from a socio-ecological perspective.

Results

Forty-nine studies, comprising 42 quantitative, five qualitative and two mixed method design were included. Themes identified concerned: (a) sociodemographic factors, (b) personal assets, (c) interpersonal relationships and commitments, (d) physical environment, and (e) societal norms and gender expectations. The findings identified the heterogeneous needs, preferences and inequalities faced by older women and men, considerations on sociocultural expectations and norms of each gender when engaging in social activities, and the importance of having adequate and accessible social spaces. Overall, this review identified more evidence on factors influencing social participation among women than in men.

Conclusion

Special attention is needed among community care providers and healthcare professionals to co-design, implement or prescribe a combination of sex and gender-specific and neutral activities that interest both older women and men. Intersectoral collaborative actions, including public health advocates, gerontologists, policymakers, and land use planners, are needed to unify efforts to foster social inclusion by creating an age-friendly and sustainable healthy environment. More longitudinal studies are required to better understand social participation trajectories from a sex and gender perspective and identify factors influencing it.

Systematic reviews registration

http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier [CRD42023392764].
Moderating role of depression in the association between leisure activity and cognitive function among the disabled older people
Authors: Hao Haijun , Kim Miok
Published: April 2024

Background

This study delves into the complex interaction between leisure activities and cognitive function in older people with disabilities, with a particular emphasis on the moderating influence of depression. Despite the well-documented cognitive benefits of leisure activities among the older people, the intricate relationship between depression and the association between leisure activities and cognitive function in this specific demographic has been rarely reported.

Methods

Drawing on data from the 2017–2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), this study meticulously examined a cohort of 713 participants aged 65–89 years. We constructed a moderation model to examine the impact of leisure activity on cognitive function in older people with disabilities, with depression levels as a moderating variable.

Results

We found a positive association between engagement in leisure activities and cognitive function, highlighting the potential cognitive advantages associated with leisure engagement among disabled older people. However, the present analysis also reveals a significant moderation effect of depression on this relationship, shedding light on the nuanced nature of this association. Specifically, elevated levels of depression emerge as a critical moderator, attenuating the otherwise favorable impact of leisure activities on cognitive function among older people contending with disabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings provide a compelling rationale for tailored interventions that comprehensively target both leisure activity engagement and concurrent depression management, effectively fostering improvements in cognitive function among the cohort of disabled older people.
Barriers to mental health service utilisation among medical students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsalman Zaenb , Shafey Marwa Mahmoud , Al-Khofi Asma , Alessa Jumana , Bukhamsin Raghad , Bokhuwah May , Aljumaiah Ryhana , Al-makhaitah Noura , Almaslami Maryam
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Medical students experience high levels of stress, often due to academic demands, which can adversely affect their mental health. However, they frequently hesitate to seek and underutilise available mental health services. This study aimed to assess the perceived need for mental health services and identify the barriers to seeking help among undergraduate medical students.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study recruited 480 undergraduate medical students from two main universities in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through an online, self-administered questionnaire that encompassed sections on sociodemographic details, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), perceptions about the necessity for professional mental health care, service utilisation over the past year, and the Barriers to Access to Care Evaluation (BACE-III).

Results

The study found that 33.6% of the participants showed signs of depression. Even though 42.5% expressed a perceived need for mental health services, only 16.2% actually utilised these services in the previous 12 months. In terms of barriers, attitudinal-related barriers received the highest mean score, followed by stigma- and instrumental-related barriers. Notably, students who had previously experienced academic failure and those who had sought mental health services were more inclined to report stigma- and instrumental-related barriers.

Conclusion

Mental health challenges are notably prevalent among undergraduate medical students. Although there is a significant perceived need for professional mental health intervention, the actual utilisation rate remains low. The primary obstacles to seeking assistance are attitudinal and stigma-related barriers.
Relationship between the severity of pre-frailty and the degree of adaptation of Ninjin’yoeito (NYT) on pre-frailty
Authors: Amitani Haruka , Suzuki Hajime , Kobayashi Hironori , Murayama Masaru , Uto Nanami Sameshima , Kuroda Eishi , Kobayashi Yoshiki , Kawabe Momoko , Amitani Marie , Inui Akio , Marunaka Yoshinori
Published: April 2024

With the global trend towards longer life expectancies, there’s an increasing emphasis on not just living longer, but also maintaining health and wellbeing into older age. This study explores the efficacy of Ninjin’yoeito (NYT) in the early stages of frailty, a critical period for preventive interventions. Taking account of the knowledge gap regarding the association between early frailty and NYT, we use data from workplace health checkups to examine the relationship between pre-frailty severity and NYT adaption. The objective of our research is to enhance the comprehension of early treatments using NYT to prevent the progression of frailty. A total of 314 employees of the Kyoto Industrial Health Association who received workplace health checkups between November 2021 and March 2023 and consented to this study were included in the analysis. Information on gender, age, body mass index (BMI), NYT-specific symptoms assessment, the Japanese version of the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), and the Kihon Checklist (KCL) were obtained. The correlation analysis revealed that there was a strong positive correlation between the number of applicable NYT indications and the GHQ-12 score (r = 0.5992, p < 0.0001). Similarly, a moderate positive correlation was observed between the number of applicable NYT indications and the KCL score (r = 0.5030, p < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, both GHQ-12 (β = 0.49, SE = 0.06, t = 7.66, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.62, p = 0.000) and KCL (β = 0.54, SE = 0.12, t = 4.29, 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.79, p = 0.000) showed significant positive associations with the variance in the number of applicable NYT indications, indicating that higher scores on these measures were related to a greater number of indications. NYT has the potential to be utilized not only as a therapeutic intervention for frailty, but also as a preventive measure.
A neuropsychological rehabilitation service delivery model for South African adults with acquired brain injury (RSDM-SA)
Authors: Joosub Noorjehan , Kruger Gert , Basson Pieter
Published: April 2024

In low- and- middle- income countries (LMICs) such as South Africa, a high number of Acquired Brain Injuries (ABIs) and a lack of accessibility to healthcare lead to many survivors of brain injury not receiving the level of healthcare and rehabilitation required. Further, in LMICs life-saving or acute care is prioritized with an inadequate focus on the lifelong effects of ABI. This study used Program Theory to develop a Rehabilitation Service Delivery Model for South African Adults with Acquired Brain Injury (RSDM-SA) that caters for the unique nuances of a resource-constrained and culturally diverse context. The RSDM-SA has four interdependent levels, namely (i) Integration of Relevant Aspects of Explanatory Frameworks (ii) South African Contextual Influences on the Model (iii) Systemic Role players Necessary for the Model and (iv) Evidence-Based Guidelines in a Holistic Rehabilitation Process. The Model is a valuable resource in guiding future research endeavors and its contribution lies in the Model's focus on quality, accessibility, relevance, and efficiency, all of which are needed in healthcare internationally.
Magnetic multilayer hydrogel oral microrobots for digestive tract treatment
Authors: Xu Ziheng , Wu Zehao , Xu Zichen , Xu Qingsong
Published: April 2024

Oral administration is a convenient drug delivery method in our daily lives. However, it remains a challenge to achieve precise target delivery and ensure the efficacy of medications in extreme environments within the digestive system with complex environments. This paper proposes an oral multilayer magnetic hydrogel microrobot for targeted delivery and on-demand release driven by a gradient magnetic field. The inner hydrogel shells enclose designated drugs and magnetic microparticles. The outer hydrogel shells enclose the inner hydrogel shells, magnetic microparticles, and pH neutralizers. The drug release procedure is remotely implemented layer-by-layer. When the required gradient magnetic field is applied, the outer hydrogel shells are destroyed to release their inclusions. The enclosed pH neutralizers scour the surrounding environment to avoid damaging drugs by the pH environment. Subsequently, the inner hydrogel shells are destroyed to release the drugs. A set of experiments are conducted to demonstrate the wirelessly controllable target delivery and release in a Petri dish and biological tissues. The results demonstrated attractive advantages of the reported microrobot in microcargo delivery with almost no loss, remote controllable release, and drug protection by the pH neutralizers. It is a promising approach to advance next-generation precision oral therapies in the digestive system.
Case report: Treatment of constrictive epicarditis using the waffle procedure in a dog that had previously undergone a subtotal pericardiectomy
Authors: Saunders Rebecca , Garnett Steven , Lucchetti Brittany , Jesty Sophy
Published: April 2024

A 10 year-old female spayed German Short-haired Pointer dog weighing 26.8 kg (59 lb) presented with a 2 week history of recurrent ascites. The dog had a 4 year history of idiopathic pericardial effusion causing sporadic episodes of cardiac tamponade and secondary ascites. A subtotal pericardiectomy was performed 3 months prior to presentation. The patient had done well for 2 months following this procedure, at which point the large-volume modified transudate ascites recurred, necessitating abdominocentesis every 10 days. Thoracic and abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed no abdominal or vascular cause of ascites. Transthoracic echocardiography performed under general anesthesia showed constrictive epicarditis (visceral pericarditis) resulting in diastolic dysfunction and right-sided congestive heart failure. A sternotomy was performed for a pericardial waffle procedure or crosshatch pericardiotomy—scoring of crosshatched incisions into the thickened epicardium. Echocardiographic findings postoperatively were consistent with resolved constrictive epicarditis. At 8 months postoperatively, the dog was clinically normal and had only required one abdominocentesis one month after the waffle procedure. This case report describes the successful treatment of a dog with constrictive epicarditis using a novel surgical technique (waffle procedure) that has not yet been described in veterinary medicine.
Ethnopharmacological uses of fauna among the people of central Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Abdul Majid , Altaf Muhammad , Hussain Tanveer , Hamed M. Haroon , Safdar Umaira , Ayub Amina , Memon Zaibun-nisa , Hafiz Adnan , Ashraf Sana , Amjad Muhammad Shoaib , Majeed Muhammad , Hassan Musheerul , Bussmann Rainer W. , Abbasi Arshad Mahmood , Al-Yafrsi Mohamed , Elansary Hosam O. , Mahmoud Eman A.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The utilization of fauna and fauna-based byproducts in ethnomedicinal usages has been a longstanding human activity, practiced across various cultures worldwide. This study focuses on investigating the utilization of animal-based traditional medicine by the people of Pakistan, specifically in the Gujranwala area.

Methods

Data collection took place from January to September 2019 through interviews with local communities. Ethnomedicinal applications of animal products were analyzed using several indices, including Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Relative Popularity Level (RPL), Folk Use Value (FL), and Relative Occurrence Percentage (ROP).

Results

The study identified the use of different body parts of 54 species of animals in treating various diseases and health issues. These include but are not limited to skin infections, sexual problems, pain management (e.g., in the backbone and joints), eyesight issues, immunity enhancement, cold, weakness, burns, smallpox, wounds, poisoning, muscular pain, arthritis, diabetes, fever, epilepsy, allergies, asthma, herpes, ear pain, paralysis, cough, swelling, cancer, bronchitis, girls’ maturity, and stomach-related problems. Certain species of fauna were noted by informers with high “frequency of citation” (FC), ranging from 1 to 77. For instance, the black cobra was the most frequently cited animal for eyesight issues (FC = 77), followed by the domestic rabbit for burn treatment (FC = 67), and the Indus Valley spiny-tailed ground lizard for sexual problems (FC = 66). Passer domesticus and Gallus gallus were noted to have the highest ROP value of 99.

Discussion

The findings of this study provide valuable preliminary insights for the conservation of fauna in the Gujranwala region of Punjab, Pakistan. Additionally, screening these animals for medicinally active compounds could potentially lead to the development of novel animal-based medications, contributing to both traditional medicine preservation and modern pharmaceutical advancements.
Unveiling zoonotic threats: molecular identification of Brugia sp. infection in a lion
Authors: Junsiri Witchuta , Kamkong Patchana , Phojun Aunchisa , Taweethavonsawat Piyanan
Published: April 2024

Brugia malayi and B. pahangi, potential zoonotic pathogens transmitted by mosquitoes, are believed to primarily infect dogs and cats as reservoir hosts. Although previous studies have indicated nematode infections in lions, particularly in zoo environments where human contact with these reservoirs is possible, limited documentation exists regarding Brugia sp. infections in lions in Thailand. This study aims to investigate a case of Brugia infection in a lion from a zoo in Thailand. The blood sample was collected and examined from a female lion, using staining methods to morphologically identify microfilaria at the genus level. Subsequently, the PCR was employed targeting specific genes, including mitochondrial 12S rDNA, 18S rDNA, cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and Wolbachia surface protein (wsp), to confirm the species of the filarial nematode parasite. The genetic sequencing results revealed a high similarity (99–100%) to B. malayi for the 12S rDNA, 18S rDNA, COI and wsp genes. Phylogenetic analysis based on nucleotide sequences from the 12S rDNA, 18S rDNA, COI and wsp genes showed that the sequences from this study belong to different clusters. This marks the inaugural documentation of molecular identification of Brugia infection in a lion, signifying that lions could function as reservoirs for this parasite and present a potential public health risk in the region. Our research underscores the effectiveness of molecular techniques and phylogenetic analysis in discerning and comprehending the evolution of filarial parasites. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of these methods in enhancing the diagnosis, control, and prevention of zoonotic filarial nematode infections.
Lonicera flos and Curcuma longa L. extracts improve growth performance, antioxidant capacity and immune response in broiler chickens
Authors: Xu Dahai , Wang Xiao , Shi Wanyu , Bao Yongzhan
Published: April 2024

Alternatives to antibiotics are urgently needed to maintain broiler growth and health. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Lonicera flos and Curcuma longa L. extracts (LCE) as antibiotic substitutes on growth performance, antioxidant capacity and immune response in broilers. A total of 480 one-day-old female broilers (WOD168) were allocated to 3 treatments with 5 replicates of 32 birds for 35 days. The 3 treatments were: an antibiotic-free basal diet (control, CON), CON +50 mg/kg spectinomycin hydrochloride and 25 mg/kg lincomycin hydrochloride (ANT), CON +500 mg/kg LCE (LCE). During the entire experimental period, supplementation of ANT and LCE increased (p < 0.01) average daily gain (ADG) and decreased (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR), thereby resulting in greater final body weight (BW) compared with CON. Dietary LCE supplementation increased (p < 0.05) serum (glutathione peroxidase) GSH-Px, (superoxide dismutase) SOD and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activities, and decreased (p < 0.05) serum malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration at day 35 compared with CON. There was no significant difference in serum catalase (CAT) activity among treatments. Birds in LCE group had lower (p < 0.05) MDA concentration and higher SOD activity in liver than those in CON and ANT groups at day 35. Birds in LCE group had higher (p < 0.05) phagocytic index and serum antibody titers to Newcastle disease virus (NDV) than those in CON group. Lower (p < 0.05) concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines in serum and liver were observed in birds fed LCE diet than those fed CON diet. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of LCE improved growth performance by enhancing antioxidant capacity, strengthening immune system and alleviating inflammation, which has potential as antibiotic alternatives.
Social Support, Resilience, and Mental Health Among Three High-Risk Groups in Hong Kong: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Wong Eliza Lai-Yi , Qiu Hong , Sun Kai-Sing , Mo Phoenix Kit-Han , Lai Angel Hor-Yan , Yam Carrie Ho-Kwan , Miao Ho-Yee , Cheung Annie Wai-Ling , Yeoh Eng-Kiong
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To compare the prevalence of anxiety/depression, resilience, and social support among nurses, foreign domestic helpers (FDHs), and residents living in subdivided units (SDUs), and to examine their associations in these high-risk groups in Hong Kong during Omicron waves.

Methods

We recruited 1,014 nurses, 621 FDHs, and 651 SDU residents from December 2021 to May 2022 in this cross-sectional survey. The depression, anxiety, social support, and resilience levels were measured by the validated scales. The multivariate binary logistic regression and causal mediation analysis were applied to examine the associations.

Results

We observed a prevalence of 17.7% in anxiety and 21.6% in depression which were the highest in SDU residents, followed by FDHs, and lowest in nurses. Social support was associated with increased resilience levels and decreased risks of anxiety/depression. The association of social support with mental disorders was partly mediated by resilience, accounting for 30.9% and 20.9% of the total effect of social support on anxiety and depression, respectively.

Conclusion

Public health strategies should target improving social support and providing resilience-promoting interventions to help reduce mental disorders in vulnerable groups.
A Study on the Preference of Electric Vehicle Front Design Elements
Authors: Sun Zhiyou , Park Kyungjin
Published: April 2024

In order to invigorate Korea’s pure electric vehicle market, innovative changes are imperative in both technological advancements and exterior design aesthetics. The front fascia, being the nucleus of car design, profoundly influences not only brand perception but also consumer preferences and purchasing decisions. Hence, the significance of front-end design in pure electric vehicle engineering is becoming increasingly evident. This study aims to assess the front-end design of electric vehicles and delineate the design aesthetics favored by consumers. Focusing on the exterior design aspects of electric vehicles, the study participants were limited to adults aged 20 or above. Utilizing Maximum Difference Scaling, a questionnaire was formulated, and preferences for front-end elements (headlamps, bonnet, bumper, grille, and side mirrors) were scrutinized through cross-tabulation analysis. The findings revealed the bonnet as the most preferred element, with a preference towards simplistic designs observed across all elements, including the bumper, grille, and side mirrors. Headlamps ranked as the second most preferred element, with a tendency towards emotionally evocative designs. This study offers insights into consumer preferences regarding the front-end elements of electric vehicles and is poised to contribute to the revitalization of Korea’s pure electric vehicle market by providing pertinent information to future electric vehicle manufacturers.
Toward Circular Economy: Potentials of Spent Coffee Grounds in Bioproducts and Chemical Production
Authors: Ahmed Hisham , Abolore Rasaq S. , Jaiswal Swarna , Jaiswal Amit K.
Published: April 2024

With growing concern over environmental sustainability and dwindling fossil resources, it is crucial to prioritise the development of alternative feedstocks to replace fossil resources. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are an environmental burden with an estimated six million tons being generated on a wet basis annually, globally. SCGs are rich in cellulose, lignin, protein, lipids, polyphenols and other bioactive compounds which are important raw materials for use in industries including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Furthermore, the energy sector has the potential to capitalize on the high calorific value of SCGs for biofuel and biogas production, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. SCGs are readily available, abundant, and cheap, however, SCGs are currently underutilized, and a significant amount are dumped into landfills. This review explores the potential of SCGs as a source of a value-added compound through various conversion technologies employed in the valorisation of SCGs into biochar, biofuel, and important chemical building blocks. The state-of-the-art, current knowledge, future research to stimulate the creation of sustainable products, and the challenges and economic feasibility of exploring SCGs in a biorefinery context are presented.
Experimental Study on and Finite Element Analysis of the Axial Compression Bearing Capacity of a UHPC Transfer Device for Pre-Stressed Anti-Floating Anchor Rods
Authors: Zhu Yi , Li Yi , Tang Zhen-Xing , Liu Pei-Lin , Yang Zhuo
Published: April 2024

A new UHPC pre-stress transfer device is proposed for pre-stressed anti-floating anchor rods. To investigate the axial compression performance of the device during pre-stressing, physical experiments and a finite element verification were conducted on four different types of full-scale device specimens. The changes in the axial displacements and ultimate bearing capacities under axial pressure for the different types of devices were analyzed. The results indicated that bending failures occurred in the upper plate portions of all the types of specimens, with transverse cracks appearing near the upper plate portions of the short columns. The axial compression ultimate bearing capacity of each specimen exceeded the design value. Among them, the axial compression ultimate bearing capacity of the HM18 device increased the most relative to its design value by 87%, while axial compression ultimate bearing capacity of the HM45 device increased the least relative to its design value by only 2%. The new UHPC transfer device exhibits good applicability in pre-stressed anti-floating anchor rods.
Delay in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis Due to Interrupted Services Is Associated with Worse Prognoses and Modified Surgical Approaches
Authors: Taccioli Filippo , Blessent Claudio Gio Francesco , Paganelli Alessia , Fagioli Francesca , Chester Johanna Mary , Kaleci Shaniko , Costantini Matteo , Ferrari Barbara , Fiorentini Chiara , De Santis Giorgio , Magnoni Cristina
Published: April 2024

Background: The delayed diagnosis of skin tumors is associated with a worsened prognosis. The impact of the interruption of clinical and surgical health services during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns has been documented among many pathologies. The impact of delayed diagnoses on patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs) is poorly defined. Objective: To compare patient and lesion characteristics and the surgical management of excised cSCCs prior to the pandemic shutdown of services (2018–2019) with the phase following the pandemic’s second wave (2021–2022). Methods: An observational, single-center, cross-sectional study of 416 surgically excised cSCCs over the course of two years was performed. Only patients with histologically confirmed cSCC were enrolled. Data collection included patient demographics and lesion characteristics, time to surgery, surgical approach, and histological data. Results: More cSCC lesions were excised prior to the interruption of services (n = 312 vs. n = 186). Lesions were significantly larger (1.7 ± 1.2 vs. 2.1 ± 1.5 cm; p = 0.006) and more invasive (52% vs. 89%; p < 0.001), in the period 2021–2022. Surgical reconstructive techniques were significantly different (p = 0.001). Metastatic involvement was confirmed in three subjects (one in 2018–2019 and two in 2021–2022). There were no significant differences in the time to surgery or patient characteristics. Multivariable regression analysis identified a 4.7-times higher risk of tumor invasion (OR 4.69, 95%CI 2.55–8.16, p < 0.001), a two-times higher chance of dermo-epidermal grafts (OR 2.06, 95%CI 1.09–3.88, p = 0.025), and a 3.2-times higher risk of positive surgical margins (OR 3.21, 95%CI 1.44–7.17, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Diagnostic delays of cutaneous SCCs associated with reduced patient access to clinical and diagnostic services are associated with a 4.7-times increased risk of more severe invasion, a three-times increased risk of positive surgical margins, and a significant impact on surgical management, compared to the pre-pandemic period. Comparable patient cohort characteristics and time to surgery remained unchanged.
Targeted Therapy for Highly Desmoplastic and Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Olaoba Olamide T. , Yang Ming , Adelusi Temitope I. , Maidens Tessa , Kimchi Eric T. , Staveley-O’Carroll Kevin F. , Li Guangfu
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal malignancy with a very poor prognosis. Despite advancements in treatment strategies, PDAC remains recalcitrant to therapies because patients are often diagnosed at an advanced stage. The advanced stage of PDAC is characterized by metastasis, which typically renders it unresectable by surgery or untreatable by chemotherapy. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC comprises highly proliferative myofibroblast-like cells and hosts the intense deposition of a extracellular matrix component that forms dense fibrous connective tissue, a process called the desmoplastic reaction. In desmoplastic TMEs, the incessant aberration of signaling pathways contributes to immunosuppression by suppressing antitumor immunity. This feature offers a protective barrier that impedes the targeted delivery of drugs. In addition, the efficacy of immunotherapy is compromised because of the immune cold TME of PDAC. Targeted therapy approaches towards stromal and immunosuppressive TMEs are challenging. In this review, we discuss cellular and non-cellular TME components that contain actionable targets for drug development. We also highlight findings from preclinical studies and provide updates about the efficacies of new investigational drugs in clinical trials.
In Curative Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer, There Is a High Possibility That 45 Gy in Five Fractions Will Not Be Tolerated without a Hydrogel Spacer
Authors: Sawayanagi Subaru , Yamashita Hideomi , Ogita Mami , Kawai Taketo , Sato Yusuke , Kume Haruki
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in the treatment of non-metastatic prostate cancer. This study was a phase 1 dose escalation trial conducted in Japan. Patients with histologically proven prostate cancer without lymph nodes or distant metastases were enrolled. The prescribed doses were 42.5, 45, or 47.5 Gy in five fractions. Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as grade (G) 3+ gastrointestinal or genitourinary toxicity within 180 days after SBRT completion, and a 6 plus 6 design was used as the method of dose escalation. A total of 16 patients were enrolled, with 6 in the 42.5 Gy group and 10 in the 45 Gy group. No DLT was observed in the 42.5 Gy group. In the 45 Gy group, one patient experienced G3 rectal hemorrhage, and another had G4 rectal perforation, leading to the determination of 42.5 Gy as the MTD. None of the patients experienced biochemical recurrence or death during the follow-up period. We concluded that SBRT for non-metastatic prostate cancer at 42.5 Gy in five fractions could be safely performed, but a total dose of 45 Gy increased severe toxicity.
CD10 Expression Correlates with Earlier Tumour Stages and Left-Sided Tumour Location in Colorectal Cancer but Has No Prognostic Impact in a European Cohort
Authors: Grass Julia-Kristin , Grupp Katharina , Kluth Martina , Hube-Magg Claudia , Simon Ronald , Kemper Marius , Izbicki Jakob R. , Sauter Guido , Melling Nathaniel
Published: April 2024

The role of CD10 expression in colorectal cancer has been controversially discussed in the literature. Some data suggest a predictive capacity for lymph node and liver metastases, thus influencing overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). This study aims to analyse the relationship between CD10 expression and overall survival (OS) in a European cohort. To determine the association of CD10 expression with tumour phenotype, molecular features, and prognosis, a tissue microarray of 1469 colorectal carcinomas was analysed using immunohistochemistry and was compared with matched clinicopathologic data. CD10 expression correlated with earlier tumour stages (p = 0.017) and left-sided colon cancer (p < 0.001). However, no correlation was found between CD10 expression and lymph node involvement (p = 0.711), tumour grading (p = 0.397), or overall survival (p = 0.562). Even in the subgroup analysis of tumour or nodal stage, CD10 did not affect overall survival, although it was significantly associated with p53 and nuclear β-catenin expression (p = 0.013 and p < 0.001, respectively). CD10 expression correlates with earlier tumour stages, colon cancer location, and indicators of aggressive CRC subtypes. However, we can exclude CD10 as a relevant independent prognosticator for CRC.
Helicobacter pylori cagA, vacA, iceA and babA Genotypes from Peruvian Patients with Gastric Intestinal Metaplasia
Authors: Guzmán Jesús , Castillo Denis , González-Siccha Anabel D. , Bussalleu Alejandro , Trespalacios-Rangel Alba A. , Lescano Andres G. , Sauvain Michel
Published: April 2024

We explored the clinical-stage association of gastric intestinal metaplasia (IM) compared to cases of chronic non-atrophic gastritis (CNAG) and its relationship with virulence genotypes of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) clinical isolates from patients with dyspepsia in Peru. This study was cross-sectional and included 158 H. pylori clinical isolates; each isolate corresponded to a different Peruvian patient, genotyped by polymerase chain reaction to detect cagA gene and EPIYA motifs, the vacA gene (alleles s1, s2, i1, i2, d1, d2, m1, m2 and subtypes s1a, s1b and s1c), the iceA gene (alleles 1 and 2), and the babA gene (allele 2). We observed that 38.6% presented with IM and that all clinical isolates were CagA positive. The EPIYA-ABC motif was predominant (68.4%), and we observed a high frequency for the vacA gene alleles s1 (94.9%), m1 (81.7%), i1 (63.9%), and d1 (70.9%). Strains with both iceA alleles were also detected (69.6%) and 52.2% were babA2 positive. In addition, it was observed that the cagA+/vacAs1m1 (PR: 2.42, 1.14 to 5.13, p < 0.05) and cagA+/vacAs1am1 (PR: 1.67, 1.13 to 2.45, p < 0.01) genotypes were associated with IM. Our findings revealed the cagA and vacA risk genotypes predominance, and we provided clinically relevant associations between Peruvian patients with H. pylori infection and IM clinical stage.
Bevacizumab Treatment for Patients with NF2-Related Schwannomatosis: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Douwes Jules P. J. , Hensen Erik F. , Jansen Jeroen C. , Gelderblom Hans , Schopman Josefine E.
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: NF2-related schwannomatosis, characterized by the development of bilateral vestibular schwannomas, often necessitates varied treatment approaches. Bevacizumab, though widely utilized, demonstrates variable effectiveness on hearing and tumor growth. At the same time, (serious) adverse events have been frequently reported. (2) Methods: A single center retrospective study was conducted, on NF2-related schwannomatosis patients treated with bevacizumab from 2013 to 2023, with the aim to assess treatment-related and clinical outcomes. Outcomes of interest comprised hearing, radiologic response, symptoms, and adverse events. (3) Results: Seventeen patients received 7.5 mg/kg bevacizumab for 7.1 months. Following treatment, 40% of the patients experienced hearing improvement, 53%, stable hearing, and 7%, hearing loss. Vestibular schwannoma regression occurred in 31%, and 69% remained stable. Further symptomatic improvement was reported by 41%, stable symptoms by 47%, and worsened symptoms by 12%. Treatment discontinuation due to adverse events was observed in 29% of cases. Hypertension (82%) and fatigue (29%) were most frequently reported, with no occurrences of grade 4/5 toxicities. (4) Conclusion: Supporting previous studies, bevacizumab demonstrated positive effects on hearing, tumor control, and symptoms in NF2-related schwannomatosis, albeit with common adverse events. Therefore, careful consideration of an appropriate management strategy is warranted.
Investigating the Role of SNAI1 and ZEB1 Expression in Prostate Cancer Progression and Immune Modulation of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Lautert-Dutra William , Melo Camila Morais , Chaves Luiz Paulo , Sousa Francisco Cesar , Crozier Cheryl , Dion Dan , Avante Filipe S. , Saggioro Fabiano Pinto , dos Reis Rodolfo Borges , Archangelo Leticia Fröhlich , Bayani Jane , Squire Jeremy A.
Published: April 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an immunologically cold tumor and the molecular processes that underlie this behavior are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated a primary cohort of intermediate-risk PCa (n = 51) using two NanoString profiling panels designed to study cancer progression and immune response. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways associated with biochemical recurrence (BCR) and clinical risk. Confirmatory analysis was performed using the TCGA-PRAD cohort. Noteworthy DEGs included collagens such as COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1. Changes in the distribution of collagens may influence the immune activity in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In addition, immune-related DEGs such as THY1, IRF5, and HLA-DRA were also identified. Enrichment analysis highlighted pathways such as those associated with angiogenesis, TGF-beta, UV response, and EMT. Among the 39 significant DEGs, 11 (28%) were identified as EMT target genes for ZEB1 using the Harmonizome database. Elevated ZEB1 expression correlated with reduced BCR risk. Immune landscape analysis revealed that ZEB1 was associated with increased immunosuppressive cell types in the TME, such as naïve B cells and M2 macrophages. Increased expression of both ZEB1 and SNAI1 was associated with elevated immune checkpoint expression. In the future, modulation of EMT could be beneficial for overcoming immunotherapy resistance in a cold tumor, such as PCa.
EMP2 Serves as a Functional Biomarker for Chemotherapy-Resistant Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Chan Ann M. , Aguirre Brian , Liu Lucia , Mah Vei , Balko Justin M. , Tsui Jessica , Wadehra Navin P. , Moatamed Neda A. , Khoshchehreh Mahdi , Dillard Christen M. , Kiyohara Meagan , Elshimali Yahya , Chang Helena R. , Marquez-Garban Diana , Hamilton Nalo , Pietras Richard J. , Gordon Lynn K. , Wadehra Madhuri
Published: April 2024

Breast cancer (BC) remains among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women worldwide. Triple-negative BC (TNBC) is a subset of BC characterized by aggressive behavior, a high risk of distant recurrence, and poor overall survival rates. Chemotherapy is the backbone for treatment in patients with TNBC, but outcomes remain poor compared to other BC subtypes, in part due to the lack of recognized functional targets. In this study, the expression of the tetraspan protein epithelial membrane protein 2 (EMP2) was explored as a predictor of TNBC response to standard chemotherapy. We demonstrate that EMP2 functions as a prognostic biomarker for patients treated with taxane-based chemotherapy, with high expression at both transcriptomic and protein levels following treatment correlating with poor overall survival. Moreover, we show that targeting EMP2 in combination with docetaxel reduces tumor load in syngeneic and xenograft models of TNBC. These results provide support for the prognostic and therapeutic potential of this tetraspan protein, suggesting that anti-EMP2 therapy may be beneficial for the treatment of select chemotherapy-resistant TNBC tumors.
Plasma IL-1 and IL-6 Family Cytokines with Soluble Receptor Levels at Diagnosis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: High Levels Predict Decreased Five-Year Disease-Specific and Overall Survival
Authors: Aarstad Helene Hersvik , Moe Svein Erik Emblem , Lybak Stein , Bruserud Øystein , Tvedt Tor Henrik Anderson , Aarstad Hans Jørgen
Published: April 2024

Activation of the acute-phase cascade (APC) has been correlated with outcomes in various cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Primary drivers of the APC are the cytokines within the interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-1 families. Plasma levels of IL-6 family cytokines/soluble receptors (IL-6, IL-27, IL-31, OSM, CNTF, soluble (s-)gp130, s-IL-6Rα) and IL-1 family members (IL-1RA, s-IL-33Rα) were determined at diagnosis for 87 human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative (−) HNSCC patients. We then studied the 5-year Disease-Specific Survival (DSS) and Overall Survival (OS). Increased plasma levels of IL-6 (p < 0.001/p < 0.001) (DSS/OS), IL-31 (p = 0.044/p = 0.07), IL-1RA (p = 0.004/p = 0.035), soluble (s)-IL-6Rα p = 0.022/p = 0.035), and s-gp130 (p = 0.007/p = 0.003) at diagnosis were predictors of both OS and DSS from HPV(−) HNSCC patients. The cytokine DSS/OS predictions were associated with TNM stage and smoking history, whereas the soluble receptors IL-6Rα, gp130, and IL33Rα more uniquely predicted DSS/OS. Clinically, IL-6 levels above 2.5 pg/mL yielded 75% specificity and 70% sensitivity for DSS. In conclusion, high plasma levels of IL-6, IL-31, and IL-1RA, as well as the soluble receptors IL-6Rα, gp130, and IL33Rα, predicted clinical outcome. This shows their potential as candidates for both general therapy and immune therapy stratification, as well as being future platforms for the development of new immunotherapy.