bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nurses' adverse event reporting attitudes and related factors: a cross-sectional study in maternal and child specialized hospitals in China
Authors: Wu Fang , Wang Xin , Chen Shaochuan , Li Huimin , Xie Huiqiong
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the current situation of nurses' attitude toward adverse event reporting and identify its related factors in maternal and child specialized hospitals.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted among 943 nurses in 18 second-level and above maternal and child specialized hospitals in Sichuan province in China. The questionnaire included general information and the Chinese version of Reporting of Clinical Adverse Effects Scale (C-RoCAES).

Results

The total score of adverse events reported by nurses was 63.98 ± 8.77. The scores of the dimensions from high to low were reporting standard (3.13 ± 0.46), reporting impact (2.80 ± 0.54), reporting purpose (1.98 ± 0.66), and reporting environment (1.98 ± 0.42). Educational background (β = −1.87, p < 0.001), professional title (β = −3.51, p < 0.001), and adverse event experience (β = −7.05, p < 0.001) were the positively associated with higher levels of nurses' attitude toward adverse event reporting in maternal and child specialized hospitals (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The attitude of nurses in maternal and child specialized hospitals to report adverse events is at the middle level. Hospital managers should improve the reporting standards for adverse events, improve the hospital safety culture, strengthen the relevant training for nurses with low education and low professional titles, so as to improve nurses' awareness of adverse event reporting and reporting rate.
Gender differences in the prevalence, correlated factors and comorbidity of depression in adolescents: a cross-sectional study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhang Xiyan , Li Yan , Qin Hongyun , Li Xin
Published: December 2024

Background

Prior studies have reported gender differences in the prevalence, comorbidity rates and related factors of depression during adolescence. But the gender differences in depression vary across studies. Besides, the evidence from Chinese adolescent samples is limited. This study aimed to explore gender differences in the depression-related factors, the potential interactions of the associated factors and clinical features of comorbid depression and anxiety among Chinese adolescents.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 3,510 participants aged 11 to 16 years from schools (private and public) in Shanghai was conducted with an anonymous paper-and-pencil questionnaire. Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI), Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were used to evaluate depression, anxiety and behavioral and emotional difficulties, respectively. Logistic regression model was used to explore the possible correlated factors of adolescent depression and analyze the interactions of the risk factors.

Results

Our results showed that there was no gender difference in the prevalence rates of depression (χ2 = 0.047, p = 0.83), but the prevalence of depression in females began to exceed that of males at the ages of 15 and 16. The factors associated with depression varied by gender. Private school was a risk factor for depression only in boys (adjusted OR = 1.842 [95% CI, 1.286–2.636]), whereas girls from nuclear families (adjusted OR = 1.631 [95% CI, 1.156–2.300]) and other family structures (adjusted OR = 2.682 [95% CI, 1.502–4.788]) were more likely to experience depression compared to their peers in extended family structures. Interaction analyses showed there was a negative interaction between abnormal peer problems and 7th grade among boys (adjusted OR = 0.288 [95% CI, 0.086–0.951]). Furthermore, comorbidity rates of depression and anxiety were higher in girls than that in boys (χ2 = 14.457, p < 0.001). And girls with comorbidity showed increased SDQ peer problems scores (Z = −3.151, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The findings indicate it is important to develop gender-specific interventions for adolescent depression. And for boys, evaluating peer relationships may be particularly crucial in lower grades. Moreover, recognizing the gender-specific clinical features of comorbid depression and anxiety is important for appropriate clinical diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 during a mass sporting event in the City of Cape Town, Western Cape
Authors: Nkambule Sizwe , Street Renée , Surujlal-Naicker Swastika , Johnson Rabia , Mathee Angela
Published: December 2024

Background

Wastewater surveillance has become an important public health tool with numerous research studies indicating its potential for monitoring coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks. The aim of this study was to apply wastewater surveillance as an indicator for COVID-19 to monitor the impact of a mass sporting event in the City of Cape Town. The study compared the same event over 2 years (2022 and 2023).

Methods

Weekly grab wastewater samples were collected from wastewater treatment plants in the City of Cape Town, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction used to quantify severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA in wastewater.

Results

Our findings show a statistically significant correlation (rho = 0.68, p = 0.01) between clinical cases and concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater in the 2022 study period. During this specific period, a rise in clinical cases was observed 2 weeks after the event and the peaks in clinical cases coincided with the peaks in SARS-CoV-2 RNA level in wastewater. The study also found a statistically significant positive correlation (R2 = 0.03, F (1,208) = 6.56, p = 0.01) between the SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater and the 2022 event of the marathon hosted in the city.

Conclusion

Due to the decrease in clinical testing and the country being a popular destination for mass gatherings such as sporting events, the results from this study indicate the potential of wastewater surveillance providing supplementary information to form part of public health risk evaluations for mass gatherings.
Maternal pesticide exposure and risk of birth defects: a population-based cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Liu Fangfang , Li Xiayang , Chen Jie , Huang Yishuai , Dang Shaonong
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between maternal pesticide exposure during the periconceptional period and birth defects in their offspring.

Methods

A survey was conducted among 29,204 women with infants born between 2010 and 2013 in Shaanxi Province, Northwest China. All cases of birth defects were diagnosed using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). Given the multistage sampling design, the generalized estimating equation (GEE) binomial regression models with log link and exchangeable correlation structures were used to analyze the association between maternal pesticide exposures and birth defects.

Results

Among the 29,204 subjects, 562 mothers had children with birth defects, resulting in an incidence rate of 192.44 per 10,000 live births. The incidence of birth defects was higher in the pesticide-exposed group compared to the control group (737.46/10,000 vs. 186.04/10,000). After adjusting for baseline demographic characteristics, fertility status, nutritional factors, and environmental factors in the GEE model, the results indicated that the risk of birth defects and cardiovascular system defects in mothers exposed to pesticides during the periconceptional period was 2.39 times (95% CI: 1.84–3.10) and 3.14 times (95% CI: 1.73–5.71) higher, respectively, compared to the control group.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that maternal exposure to pesticides during the periconceptional period was associated with an increased risk of birth defects, particularly cardiovascular system defects in offspring. Consequently, it would be beneficial to avoid pesticide exposure from three months before pregnancy through the first trimester to lower birth defects in infants.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices among patients with periodontal disease toward disease management
Authors: Zhao Siyu , Wu Yanyun
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Periodontal disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition that affects oral health and carries broader public health implications. This study aimed to assess the levels of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among patients with periodontal disease toward disease management.

Methods

This cross-sectional web-based study was conducted between March 2022 and March 2023. A self-administered questionnaire was designed to evaluate KAP toward disease management.

Results

A total of 514 questionnaires were collected. Among the patients, 313 (60.89%) of them were female, 309 (60.12%) resided in urban areas and 130 (25.29%) reported having severe periodontal disease. The mean scores of knowledge, attitudes and practices were 3.05 ± 2.03 (possible range: 0–8), 18.71 ± 3.64 (possible range: 6–30), and 14.85 ± 3.63 (possible range: 5–25), respectively. The knowledge item with highest correctness rate was the link between periodontal disease and systemic health (60.70%), while the lowest correctness rate was seen for understanding disease classification (36.96%). Pearson’s analysis revealed positive correlations between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.31, p < 0.001), knowledge and practices (r = 0.23, p < 0.001) attitudes, as well as attitudes and practices (r = 0.17, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that knowledge (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.14–1.49, p < 0.001), age ≥ 33 years old (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.18–0.62, p = 0.001), housewife/househusband (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.17–0.95, p = 0.037) and student (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.20–0.92, p = 0.029) were independently associated with practices.

Conclusion

Patients with periodontal disease had insufficient knowledge, negative attitudes, and passive practices toward disease management. Further efforts could be directed toward enhancing patient education on periodontal disease to improve knowledge, thereby positively influencing attitudes and disease management practices.
Neighborhood social environment and mental health of older adults in China: the mediating role of subjective well-being and the moderating role of green space
Authors: Lin Taizhi , Wang Qianhui , Tan Zixuan , Zuo Wen , Wu Rong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

With the continuous development of the global aging trend, the mental health of older adults has been a concern by the world. The living space of older adults is limited due to the decline of their activity function. Neighborhood environment, especially the neighborhood social environment, has become an important factor affecting the mental health of older adults. Therefore, this study explores the mechanism that influences the social environment of the neighborhood and the mental health of older adults, the mediating effect of subjective well-being (SWB), and the moderating effect of green space.

Methods

Based on the 2018 China Labor Dynamics Survey, this study used the structural equation model to explore the mediating effect of neighborhood social environment (neighborhood ties, social trust, community security) on the mental health of older adults through SWB and the moderating effect of green space.

Results

Social trust and community security are both directly and positively associated with older adults’ mental health. At the same time, neighborhood ties, social trust, and community security can promote the mental health of older adults by positively affecting SWB, while green space has an enhanced moderating effect between neighborhood ties and mental health.

Discussion

This study enriches the empirical research on neighborhood social environment and mental health. First of all, older adults living in communities with good safety conditions and high social trust are less affected by negative emotions and tend to have good mental health. Second, deeper neighborhood ties, higher social trust, and safer community environments help older adults to be less disturbed by negative situations, have a positive effect on their SWB, and indirectly promote mental health. At the same time, green space can provide a place for older adults to socialize, enhance the positive impact of neighborhood ties on SWB, and further promote the mental health of older adults. Finally, this study suggests that the government and community managers pay attention to the construction of neighborhood social environment and green space, and provide support for “healthy community” and “healthy aging” planning.
Research progress on assessment tools related to occupational fatigue in nurses: a traditional review
Authors: Zeng Zhi , Zhou Sumei , Liu Meng
Published: December 2024

Nurse occupational fatigue is a significant factor affecting nursing quality and medical safety. Scientific and effective assessment of occupational fatigue is beneficial for strengthening nurse occupational health management, improving the quality of life for nurses, and ensuring patient safety. This article provides a narrative review of the content, reliability, validity, characteristics, application status, and advantages and disadvantages of assessment tools related to nurse occupational fatigue. These tools include single-dimensional assessment scales (Fatigue Severity Scale, Chinese version of Li Fatigue Scale), multidimensional assessment scales (Fatigue Scale-14, Fatigue Assessment Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, etc.), and other assessment tools. Our review reveals limitations in existing occupational fatigue assessment tools, such as variability in accuracy and applicability across different populations, and potential biases. These findings underscore the critical role of these tools in nursing management and occupational health, advocating for continuous refinement and innovation. Future research should focus on developing more comprehensive, context-specific tools to address the multifaceted nature of nurse occupational fatigue. Nursing managers must carefully select appropriate tools to effectively identify and mitigate fatigue, thereby enhancing nurse well-being and patient care quality.
What is in a food store name? Leveraging large language models to enhance food environment data
Authors: Etheredge Analee J. , Hosmer Samuel , Crossa Aldo , Suss Rachel , Torrey Mark
Published: December 2024

Introduction

It is not uncommon to repurpose administrative food data to create food environment datasets in the health department and research settings; however, the available administrative data are rarely categorized in a way that supports meaningful insight or action, and ground-truthing or manually reviewing an entire city or neighborhood is rate-limiting to essential operations and analysis. We show that such categorizations should be viewed as a classification problem well addressed by recent advances in natural language processing and deep learning—with the advent of large language models (LLMs).

Methods

To demonstrate how to automate the process of categorizing food stores, we use the foundation model BERT to give a first approximation to such categorizations: a best guess by store name. First, 10 food retail classes were developed to comprehensively categorize food store types from a public health perspective.

Results

Based on this rubric, the model was tuned and evaluated (F1micro = 0.710, F1macro = 0.709) on an extensive storefront directory of New York City. Second, the model was applied to infer insights from a large, unlabeled dataset using store names alone, aiming to replicate known temporospatial patterns. Finally, a complimentary application of the model as a data quality enhancement tool was demonstrated on a secondary, pre-labeled restaurant dataset.

Discussion

This novel application of an LLM to the enumeration of the food environment allowed for marked gains in efficiency compared to manual, in-person methods, addressing a known challenge to research and operations in a local health department.
Using otolith weights to estimate age for eastern sea garfish, Hyporhamphus australis
Authors: Stewart John , Broadhurst Matt K. , Tolhurst Daniel J.
Published: December 2024

The most common method of estimating teleost ages is via sectioned otoliths. With diminishing funding and policies around cost-recovery from fishing industries, exploring cost-effective methods of estimating ages is warranted. The present study used 18 years of size-at-age data collected from monitoring of the commercial halfbeak (Hyporhamphus australis) fishery off New South Wales, Australia, to predict age classes from otolith weights, while considering other sources of variability such as sex, fish length, and year, month, and location of capture. We observed a significant linear relationship between age class and mean otolith weight. A generalized linear mixed model predicted 1-year olds with an 82% success rate; but was less successful for other ages. Year of sampling explained the greatest variability in the model and the distributions of otolith weights for each age class had considerable overlap. We conclude that substantial inter-annual variability in the age-class to otolith weight relationship, in addition to the relatively low precision when aging H. australis by counting annuli in sectioned otoliths, limits the predictive capacity of this model for future monitoring. Nevertheless, substantial cost savings could be made through recalibrating the model for new samples through direct aging of a subset of otoliths each year. The population of H. australis is continuing to rebuild from a previously overfished state, with an expectation that older fish will become more abundant in the fishery. Age estimation from counting annuli in sectioned otoliths is likely to be the most reliable method of identifying older individuals.
Autologous porcine VRAM flap model for VCA research
Authors: Blades Caitlin M. , Dumanian Zari P. , Wang Yong , Wang Zhaohui , Li Bing , Washington Kia M. , Slade Julia B. , Evans Conor L. , Arrowsmith Paula , Farkash Evan A. , Yu Jason W. , Greyson Mark A. , Huang Christene A. , Navarro-Alvarez Nalu , Mathes David W.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

As research advances in vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA), large animal models are essential for translational studies related to immune rejection and graft survival. However, procurement of large flaps can cause significant defects, complicating wound closure and increasing postoperative risks. This study details the surgical techniques and outcomes of autologous vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap transplantation and neck flap isolation with induced ischemia in a swine model. The purpose of this study was to identify the most effective control procedure for use in future VRAM flap allotransplantation research.

Methods

We performed two left heterotopic autologous VRAM flap transplants and two right anterolateral neck flap isolations using female Yucatan pigs. Postoperatively, animals were monitored for complications and flap healing, with punch biopsies taken on POD1, 5, and at the end of the study for histological analysis. Transcutaneous oxygen and temperature were also recorded.

Results

Both autologous flaps survived after vessel anastomosis, with effective closure of abdominal defects using suturable mesh, and no postoperative complications were observed. Histology revealed mild dermal edema and perivascular inflammation on POD5. In the neck flap group, both flaps survived temporary ischemia, however, postoperative complications included dorsal flap necrosis and wound dehiscence, requiring reoperation. No gross inflammation or edema was observed following surgery and histologically there was only mild dermal edema on POD5.

Discussion

We have developed a low-risk, technically feasible porcine autologous VRAM flap transplantation model and our findings support its use in future VCA studies.
Urbanization and hydrological dynamics: a 22-year assessment of impervious surface changes and runoff in an urban watershed
Authors: Ongaga Cyrus Omwoyo , Makokha Mary , Obiero Kennedy , Kipkemoi Isaac , Diang’a Justus
Published: December 2024

The frequency and intensity of flooding have been increasing in urban watersheds. Urbanization disrupts natural landscapes by replacing vegetated areas with impervious surfaces, reducing infiltration and increasing runoff. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between change in impervious surface area and runoff amount of Mihang’o watershed located in the outskirts of Nairobi for the period 2000–2022. The specific objectives of this study were as follows: To determine the change in the impervious surface area of Mihang’o watershed, the trend of precipitation amount in the watershed, and the trend in runoff amount, a major source of flood water from the watershed. Supervised classification was performed on land satellite (Landsat) images to determine percentages of impervious surface cover for the study period, and linear regression analysis was used to establish the trend. Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station (CHIRPS) rainfall data were retrieved from Google Earth Engine, then processed to produce monthly and annual rainfall totals, and Mann–Kendall trend tests were used to establish the rainfall trend for the watershed. The Hydrologic Engineering Center’s Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) model was used to simulate runoff from the watershed with the rainfall data and impervious surface area percentages as inputs; then, linear regression analysis was performed to establish the runoff trend. The impervious surface area increased by 87.03% from 2.88% (0.49 km2) of the total surface area of the watershed in 2000 to 22.21% (3.91 km2) in 2022, demonstrating an approximate increment of 3.96% (0.88 km2) each year. The Mann–Kendall trend test results (Sen’s slope results [β = 0.832], Kendall’s tau results [τb = 0.146], and p-value [0.625]) confirmed that there is no significant change in rainfall amounts. Runoff increased by 84.75% from 0.18 mm in 2000 to 1.18 mm in 2022; otherwise, an approximate increment of 3.85% (0.045 mm) was evident each year. Besides the impervious surface area, the HEC-HMS model factors in the length of slope, length of reach, soil type, size of subbasins, and longest flow path, thus producing accurate runoff estimations.
Evolution of the flux tube instability parameters in plasma injections at saturnian magnetosphere
Authors: Wing Simon , Johnson Jay R. , Thomsen Michelle F. , Ma Xuanye
Published: December 2024

The evolution of the flux tube stability parameters in plasma injections at the Saturnian magnetosphere is reviewed. Plasma injections result from an imbalance in the centrifugal, total pressure gradient, and magnetic tension forces acting on plasma in the magnetosphere. Plasma originating from Enceladus tends to move outward due to centrifugal forces while reconnected flux tubes that are depleted of plasma collapse because of the magnetic tension leading to plasma injections. As the flux tube moves inward and contracts, the ambient density and pressure increase sufficiently to resist further collapse and the injected flux tube brakes. During this process the flux tube may also lose its integrity due to particle drifts, which allow exchange of plasma with adjacent flux tubes so as to bring the flux tube closer to equilibrium and stability so that it is indistinguishable from adjacent plasma. Stability parameters using this energy approach are defined and examined. The results show that the net forces push the plasma moves inward for L > 11 and outward for L < 8.5, while equilibrium is generally reached for 8.5 < L < 11, where L is the equatorial magnetic field crossing measured in Saturnian radii. The evolution of the stability parameters can also apply to Jovian and other fast rotating planetary magnetospheres.
Development of functional foods from grouper fish-bone residues to enhance muscle strength and exercise endurance in mice
Authors: Kao Yi-Feng , Chai Huey-Jine , Tsai Cheng-Jeng , Tsai Tsung-Yu , Liu Te-Hua , Yi Tsung-Kai , Chen Yi-Ming
Published: December 2024

Grouper aquaculture is a key industry in Taiwan, yet its processing generates significant byproducts, leading to challenges in waste management and environmental sustainability. Recent research has focused on developing innovative methods to valorize these byproducts, with grouper bone hydrolysate (GBH) emerging as a potential candidate for applications in health promotion and exercise performance enhancement. In this study, we investigated the amino acid composition of grouper bone hydrolysate (GBH) and analyzed its peptide contents. We also investigated GBH supplementation in relation to body composition and exercise performance in mice. Male Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were divided into 3 groups (n = 7 per group) and orally administered GBH once daily for 6 weeks at doses of 0 g/kg/day (vehicle), 103 mg/kg/day (GBH-1X), 205 mg/kg/day (GBH-2X), and 513 mg/kg/day (GBH-5X). The GBH was rich in branched-chain amino acids and bioactive peptides, and supplementation enhanced the exercise performance of the mice. GBH supplementation increased their exhaustive swimming time, forelimb grip strength, and tissue glycogen content while reducing fatigue markers such as lactate, ammonia, and creatine kinase. The results indicate that GBH contains dipeptides such as Leu-Ala, Glu-Asp., Met-Leu, Met-Ile, Phe-Pro, Trp-Asp., Leu- Val, and Leu-Cys, as well as tetrapeptides such as Pro-Ser-Met-Ala, Ser-Val-Pro- Ile, and Ala-Val-Pro-Trp. GBH supplementation could aid in overcoming fatigue during endurance exercise and decrease metabolic waste after acute exercise.
Surgical vs. conservative treatment for hip osteoporotic fracture in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Man-Yu , Song Wei , Wang Jing-Bo , Lv Rui-Qian , Zhao Fu-Hao , Yang Ding-Wei
Published: December 2024

Background

HSip Osteoporotic fractures are common complications with high mortality in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). It remains unclear whether surgical or conservative should be adopted for hip fractures in MHD patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted in Tianjin Hospital of Tianjin University from August 2019 to August 2023. A total of 43 MHD patients with hip fracture were included, with 30 cases in the surgical group and 13 cases in the conservative group. The differences in cumulative survival rates, time to first ambulation, Harris score, Barthel index, and incidence of complications were compared.

Results

The surgical group had remarkable lower mortality rates as compared with the conservative group at 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, 24 months (13.33 VS. 38.46%, 26.67 VS. 53.85%, 26.67 VS. 53.85%, 26.67 VS. 61.54%, 26.67 VS. 61.54%, and 26.67 VS. 69.23%). In the surgical treatment group, the first ambulation time was reduced to 28 (26) days, which was superior to the conservative group (134.17 ± 43.18 days, P < 0.001). The Harris score at 1 month (61.50 ± 4.10) and the Barthel index at 3 months (95, 11.25) were also significantly higher (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the surgical group had a significantly lower overall incidence of complications (60.00 vs. 92.31%, P = 0.034). The risk of death and complications of surgical treatment was only 23.0 and 32.4% of conservative treatment in MHD patients with hip fracture.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment is effective and safe and should be the first choice for hip fracture in MHD patients.
Robotic lower-lip mucosal graft ureteroplasty for ureteral stenosis longer than 2 cm: initial experience of thirteen patients
Authors: Zhang Zhaolin , Zeng Xin , Wu Yuting , Wu Gengqing , He Zhihua , Zhang Guoxi , Zou Xiaofeng , Yuan Yuanhu , Xu Hui
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To present our initial experience of robotic ureteroplasty with lower-lip mucosal graft (LLMG) for treating ureteral stenosis longer than 2 cm and evaluate its feasibility and efficacy.

Materials and methods

A total of thirteen patients with ureteral stenosis who underwent robotic ureteroplasty with LLMG were retrospectively analyzed. After identification and dissection of the ureteral stenosis segment, the segment was incised longitudinally. Then, the LLMG was harvested according to the characteristics of stenosis and sutured with the ureter in onlay fashion. All procedures were completed successfully.

Result

The median stenosis length was 3.5 cm (ranged: 3.0–4.5 cm). The mean length and width of the LLMG were 3.81 ± 0.60 cm and 1.27 ± 0.26 cm, respectively. The mean operative time and anastomosis time were 212.31 ± 23.06 min and 36.54 ± 6.58 min, respectively. The double-J stent was removed at 8 weeks postoperatively in all patients. Three patients (23.1%) suffered postoperative complications during the follow-up period (range, 6–18 months), including fever, urinary tract infection and stenosis recurrence. The success rate was 92.3% (12/13).

Conclusion

Robotic ureteroplasty with LLMG is a safe and feasible technique for treating ureteral stenosis.
Effects of supplemental feeding of Chinese herbal mixtures to perinatal sows on reproductive performance, immunity, and breast milk quality of sows
Authors: Duan Xuelei , Wang Xiao , Li Zhaonian , Liu Chenggong , Zhang Lu , Bao Yongzhan , Shi Wanyu , Zhao Xinghua
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of supplementary feeding with Chinese herbal mixtures on perinatal sows, focusing on their reproductive performance, immunity and breast milk quality. Sixty healthy pregnant sows (Large white, 4 parities) were randomly allocated into five treatment groups (n = 12 per group): the control group received a basal diet, the TRT1 group received a basal diet supplemented with 2 kg/t Bazhen powder (BZP), while the TRT2, TRT3, and TRT4 groups received a basal diet supplemented with 1 kg/t, 2 kg/t, and 3 kg/t Qi-Zhu-Gui-Shao soothing liver and replenishing blood powder (QZGSP), respectively. The trial lasted for a duration of 5 weeks, commencing from day 100 of gestation and concluding on day 21 postpartum. The results showed that supplemental feeding of 2 kg/t and 3 kg/t QZGSP to periparturient sows significantly improved reproductive performance to different degrees, as evidenced by the shortened farrowing intervals and increased average daily feed intake and milk yield. Supplemental feeding of 2 kg/t and/or 3 kg/t QZGSP significantly elevated levels of IL-4, IL-10, IgG, and IgA in sow serum while reduced levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in sow serum. In addition, supplemental feeding of 2 kg/t and 3 kg/t QZGSP to perinatal sows significantly increased the protein and fat content in colostrum and milk. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data in colostrum and milk microbiota revealed that supplemental feeding of QZGSP to perinatal sows is influenced the composition of colostrum and milk composition in sows. Specifically, at the genus level, a decrease in the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus was observed in the TRT3 and/or TRT4 groups on day 0 of lactation. The findings from this study indicate that supplemental feeding of 2 kg/t and 3 kg/t QZGSP significantly improved the reproductive performance, immunity and milk quality in sows. Therefore, QZGSP is a beneficial feed additive for perinatal sows.
O sposobie definiowania terminów gramatycznych w słownikach Knapiusza i Trotza
Authors: Sabała-Bolek Martyna
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the ways of defining lexical units (including grammatical terms) used to describe the Polish language system recorded in Grzegorz Knapiusz’s Thesaurus (ed. 1621, 1643, 1644) and in Nowy dykcjonarz by Michał Abraham Trotz (ed. 1764). The material analysed included units with synonymic definitions, having equivalents or extensive definitions in foreign languages only, as well as lexemes without Polish or foreign-language equivalents. The article attempts to determine to what extent the collected linguistic terms and the ways in which they are presented in both dictionaries may be relevant to diachronic studies of Polish grammatical terminology.
Sensors, Techniques, and Future Trends of Human-Engagement-Enabled Applications: A Review
Authors: Dai Zhuangzhuang , Zakka Vincent Gbouna , Manso Luis J. , Rudorfer Martin , Bernardet Ulysses , Zumer Johanna , Kavakli-Thorne Manolya
Published: December 2024

Human engagement is a vital test research area actively explored in cognitive science and user experience studies. The rise of big data and digital technologies brings new opportunities into this field, especially in autonomous systems and smart applications. This article reviews the latest sensors, current advances of estimation methods, and existing domains of application to guide researchers and practitioners to deploy engagement estimators in various use cases from driver drowsiness detection to human–robot interaction (HRI). Over one hundred references were selected, examined, and contrasted in this review. Specifically, this review focuses on accuracy and practicality of use in different scenarios regarding each sensor modality, as well as current opportunities that greater automatic human engagement estimation could unlock. It is highlighted that multimodal sensor fusion and data-driven methods have shown significant promise in enhancing the accuracy and reliability of engagement estimation. Upon compiling the existing literature, this article addresses future research directions, including the need for developing more efficient algorithms for real-time processing, generalization of data-driven approaches, creating adaptive and responsive systems that better cater to individual needs, and promoting user acceptance.
Impact of Stocking Density on Welfare and Performance of Ross 708 and Cobb 700 Broilers
Authors: Zhou Shengyu , Thornton Tanner , Gan Hao , Tabler Tom , Jaihuni Mustafa , Zhu Xiaojuan , Zhao Yang
Published: December 2024

Stocking density (SD) may affect broiler productivity and welfare. This study investigated the performance and welfare of Ross 708 and Cobb 700 broilers as affected by four SDs (27, 29, 32, and 44 kg/m2) until day 56. A total of 432 birds per strain were used, with 10, 12, 14, and 18 birds per pen (1.1 m × 1.5 m), corresponding to the respective SDs. Each SD treatment comprised eight replicates. The target SD was determined based on the projected market weight of 4 kg at 56 days of age. The average body weight (BW), feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured biweekly. Welfare indicators (four broilers per pen), including gait score, feather cleanliness, feather coverage, body temperature, and footpad condition, were evaluated on days 28 and 56. Tibia strength (two broilers per pen) was measured on day 56. The results show that the BW and FCR of both broiler strains were not affected by SD. For both strains, the male broilers exhibited greater bone strength compared to that of the female broilers (129.06 lbf M vs. 91.70 lbf F for Ross, and 130.86 lbf M vs. 117.40 lbf F for Cobb), but the influence of SD on bone strength was found to be significant only for the Ross male broilers. Most welfare indicators were not affected by the SD on days 28 and 56 for either broiler strain, except for feather cleanliness in Ross broilers and footpad in Cobb broilers on day 56, which improved at lower SDs. Strong age and sex effects on the welfare indicators were also identified for both broiler strains. It was concluded that the SD is not a significant factor for broiler productivity, and it has a minor influence on broiler welfare compared to those of age and sex.
SAB: Self-Adaptive Bias
Authors: Choi Suchan , Oh Jinyoung , Cha Jeong-Won
Published: December 2024

Curriculum learning is a method of prioritizing learning data to improve learning performance. In this paper, we propose a new algorithm that determines how to select learning data and when to start and stop curriculum learning by considering learning errors. We use entropy to select data samples with less consistent predictions and automatically determine the warming-up period based on the characteristics of the data. Additionally, to mitigate learning bias, we introduced a variable that adjusts the range of sample selection according to the progress of the training. To validate our method, we conducted extensive experiments on both balanced and imbalanced data classification tasks, and our proposed approach showed an average improvement of about 1.8%, with a maximum improvement of up to 4.4%, compared to previously suggested methods.
Triangular Mesh Surface Subdivision Based on Graph Neural Network
Authors: Chen Guojun , Wang Rongji
Published: December 2024

Mesh subdivision is a common mesh-processing algorithm used to improve model accuracy and surface smoothness. Its classical scheme adopts a fixed linear vertex update strategy and is implemented iteratively, which often results in excessive mesh smoothness. In recent years, a nonlinear subdivision method that uses neural network methods, called neural subdivision (NS), has been proposed. However, as a new scheme, its application scope and the effect of its algorithm need to be improved. To solve the above problems, a graph neural network method based on neural subdivision was used to realize mesh subdivision. Unlike fixed half-flap structures, the non-fixed mesh patches used in this paper naturally expressed the interior and boundary of a mesh and learned its spatial and topological features. The tensor voting strategy was used to replace the half-flap spatial transformation method of neural subdivision to ensure the translation, rotation, and scaling invariance of the algorithm. Dynamic graph convolution was introduced to learn the global features of the mesh in the way of stacking, so as to improve the subdivision effect of the network on the extreme input mesh. In addition, vertex neighborhood information was added to the training data to improve the robustness of the subdivision network. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm achieved a good subdivision of both the general input mesh and extreme input mesh. In addition, it effectively subdivided mesh boundaries. In particular, using the general input mesh, the algorithm in this paper was compared to neural subdivision through quantitative experiments. The proposed method reduced the Hausdorff distance and the mean surface distance by 27.53% and 43.01%, respectively.
Prospects for Treatment of Lung Cancer Using Activated Lymphocytes Combined with Other Anti-Cancer Modalities
Authors: Ganina Anastasia , Askarov Manarbek , Kozina Larissa , Karimova Madina , Shayakhmetov Yerzhan , Mukhamedzhanova Perizat , Brimova Aigul , Berikbol Daulet , Chuvakova Elmira , Zaripova Lina , Baigenzhin Abay
Published: December 2024

This review explores the significance and prospects of using diverse T-cell variants in the context of combined therapy for lung cancer treatment. Recently, there has been an increase in research focused on understanding the critical role of tumor-specific T lymphocytes and the potential benefits of autologous T-cell-based treatments for individuals with lung cancer. One promising approach involves intravenous administration of ex vivo-activated autologous lymphocytes to improve the immune status of patients with cancer. Investigations are also exploring the factors that influence the success of T-cell therapy and the methods used to stimulate them. Achieving a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of activated lymphocytes and deciphering the mechanisms underlying their activation of innate anti-tumor immunity will pave the way for numerous clinical trials and the development of innovative strategies for cancer therapy like combined immunotherapy and radiation therapy.
Lactate Is a Strong Predictor of Poor Outcomes in Patients with Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Sharma Bharti , Jiang Winston , Dhole Yashoda , Agriantonis George , Bhatia Navin D. , Shafaee Zahra , Twelker Kate , Whittington Jennifer
Published: December 2024

Background: Lactate is a byproduct of glycolysis, often linked to oxygen deprivation. This study aimed to examine how lactate levels (LLs) affect clinical outcomes in patients with severe TBI, hypothesizing that higher LLs would correlate with worse outcomes. Methods: This is a level 1 single-center, retrospective study of patients with severe TBI between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2023, inclusive. Results: Single-factor ANOVA indicated a significant decrease in LLs with increasing age. Linear regression models showed the same for hospital admission, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission LLs, and death LLs. Prognostic scores such as Injury Severity Scores (ISS) and Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) showed a strong correlation with both Hospital admission and ICU admission LLs. ANOVA indicated higher LLs with increasing ISS and increasing LLs with decreasing GCS. Linear regressions revealed a strong positive correlation between ISS and LLs. On linear regression, the LL measured at hospital admission and ICU admission was positively associated with the length of stay (LOS) in the hospital, LOS in the ICU, ventilator days, and mortality. Linear regression models showed that a decreased delta LL during ICU admission led to an increased LOS at the hospital and the ICU, as well as a higher number of days on a ventilator. Discussion: We discovered that high LLs were linked to higher AIS and GCS scores, longer stays in the hospital and ICU, more days requiring a ventilator, and higher mortality rates in patients with severe TBI. Conclusions: LLs can be considered a strong predictor of poor clinical outcomes in patients with severe TBI.
SIRT1 Activation Suppresses Corneal Endothelial–Mesenchymal Transition via the TGF-β/Smad2/3 Pathway
Authors: Yu Yi , Guo Ruilin , Ling Jie , Xu Chenjia , Ma Minglu , Dong Xiaojuan , Wu Jing , Huang Ting
Published: December 2024

Endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EnMT) is the transversion of endothelial cells to mesenchymal cells under certain physiological or pathological conditions. When EnMT occurs in the corneal endothelium, corneal endothelial cells (CECs) lose their normal function and thus cannot maintain corneal clarity. Studies have shown that the mechanism of EnMT in CECs involves the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway, and one of the important inhibitors of the TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway is sirtuin-1 (SIRT1). In this study, we used a rat model of corneal endothelium injury and TGF-β1-treated human CECs to induce EnMT, aiming to explore whether SIRT1 activation inhibits corneal EnMT in vivo and in vitro. SIRT1 was activated and suppressed using resveratrol (RSV) and EX527, respectively. The endothelial markers and mesenchymal markers were measured by immunofluorescence and Western blot assays. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to detect the interaction between SIRT1 and Smad2/3. The results showed that after mechanical injury, the group treated with RSV-activated SIRT1 regained corneal transparency and recovered from edema faster than the control group. Moreover, RSV-activated SIRT1 downregulated the expression levels of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, and Snail and upregulated the expression levels of E-cadherin and Na+/K+-ATPase both in vivo and in vitro, but these effects were reversed when SIRT1 was inhibited by EX527. SIRT1 also upregulated the expression levels of TGF-β receptor 1 and phosphorylated Smad2/3. The interaction between SIRT1 and Smad2/3 in vitro was confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation. Overall, our results indicate that SIRT1 activation inhibits corneal EnMT via the TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway, which may be a potential therapeutic target for corneal endothelium dysfunction.
The Role of Frailty and Myosteatosis in Predicting All-Cause Mortality in Older Adults with Cancer
Authors: Papadopoulos Efthymios , Wong Andy Kin On , Law Sharon Hiu Ching , Costa Sarah , Cheung Angela M. , Rozenberg Dmitry , Alibhai Shabbir M. H.
Published: December 2024

Frailty and myosteatosis are each prognostic of all-cause mortality (ACM) in patients with cancer. However, it is unclear whether myosteatosis adds value to frailty for predicting ACM. We assessed whether myosteatosis improves the predictive ability of frailty for ACM in older adults undergoing chemotherapy. This was a retrospective study of older adults (≥65 years) initiating chemotherapy between June 2015 and June 2022. Frailty was assessed using a 24-item frailty index (FI). Myosteatosis was evaluated via computed tomography scans at the third lumbar vertebra (L3).. Multivariable Cox regression and Uno’s c-statistic determined the predictive performance of the FI and myosteatosis. In total, 115 participants (mean age: 77.1 years) were included. Frailty alone (adjusted hazards ratio (aHR) = 1.68, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) = 1.03–2.72, p = 0.037) and myosteatosis alone (aHR = 2.14, 95%CI = 1.07–4.30, p = 0.032) exhibited similar performance (c-statistic = 0.66) in predicting ACM in multivariable analyses adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and treatment intent. However, the highest predictive performance for ACM was observed after inclusion of both myosteatosis and frailty in the multivariable model (c-statistic = 0.70). Myosteatosis improves the performance of frailty for predicting ACM in older adults with cancer. Prospective studies to assess the effect of exercise on myosteatosis in older patients are warranted.
Non-Evidence-Based Dietary Restrictions in Hospital Nutrition and Their Impact on Malnutrition: A Narrative Review of International and National Guidelines
Authors: Carnevale Sara , Vitale Assunta , Razzi Monica , Onori Claudia , Cornacchia Gianna , Grispo Ornella , Corsinovi Elena , Rossl Laura , Spinetti Elena , Tosi Martina , Lisso Fabrizia , Marchi Gianna
Published: December 2024

Background: Malnutrition is a major issue in hospitals, impacting over 25% of patients. It can arise from a range of factors, such as chronic underfeeding, diseases, aging, and inappropriate nutritional care. Unnecessary fasting and the use of incorrect dietary prescriptions can also contribute to malnutrition, regardless of a patient’s underlying health conditions. Methods: A search strategy was applied to identify pertinent articles on the prescription and management of therapeutic diets in hospital settings from the last 10 years (2014–2024) using the PubMed database. The following English terms and their combinations were used: hospital diet, non-evidence-based dietary restriction, hospital food service, and therapeutic diets. Only national or international guidelines published in English were considered. Results: The narrative review was developed through the analysis of two guidelines on the prescription and management of therapeutic diets in hospital settings. The main non-evidence-based therapeutic diets that should have limited prescriptions are low-calorie, low-carbohydrate, low-protein, and low-sodium diets because they inevitably lead to a reduction in caloric and/or protein content, limit menu choices, and make recipes less palatable. The preventive total elimination of lactose without diagnostic confirmation should be avoided in the prescription of hospital therapeutic diets for lactose intolerance without symptoms and confirmation of diagnosis. Fasting after surgery should be avoided. The two guidelines differ in part in terminology and the bromatological composition of the diet. Conclusions: The heterogeneity of terminologies and bromatological composition leads to further confusion in determining the correct procedure for managing and prescribing therapeutic diets. Deepening and increasing research in the field of management and prescription of therapeutic diets is necessary to overcome the problem of hospital malnutrition, as the food provided through hospital food service is a very effective medicine for providing calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients.