bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Physical and Ambient Sexual Harassment of Women Undergraduate University Students in Canada: A Diary Study
Authors: Albert Katelin , Couture-Carron Amanda , Schneiderhan Erik
Published: January 2023

Using a 60-day daily e-diary tool, 117 women undergraduate students reported sexual harassment on a Canadian university campus (4,283 diary surveys, collectively). Participants reported 181 incidents of both ambient sexual harassment ( witnessing 40 incidents , hearing 106 unwelcomed sexual jokes/remarks) and targeted personal experiences of non-physical sexual harassment (35 incidents). Qualitative data document students’ descriptions of these encounters and contextualize how these are part of everyday student life. Findings show that students experience this harassment almost daily—in an ongoing, persistent, and normalized way—and that university can be a hostile environment where the possibility of daily unwanted sexual experiences is a lived, endemic reality.
Different Tumor Types Share a Common Nuclear Map of Chromosome Territories
Authors: Parl Fritz F
Published: January 2023

Different tumor types are characterized by unique histopathological patterns including distinctive nuclear architectures. I hypothesized that the difference in nuclear appearance is reflected in different nuclear maps of chromosome territories, the discrete regions occupied by individual chromosomes in the interphase nucleus. To test this hypothesis, I used interchromosomal translocations (ITLs) as an analytical tool to map chromosome territories in 11 different tumor types from the TCGA PanCancer database encompassing 6003 tumors with 5295 ITLs. For each chromosome I determined the number and percentage of all ITLs for any given tumor type. Chromosomes were ranked according to the frequency and percentage of ITLs per chromosome. The ranking showed similar patterns for all tumor types. Chromosomes 1, 8, 11, 17, and 19 were ranked in the top quarter, accounting for 35.2% of 5295 ITLs, whereas chromosomes 13, 15, 18, 21, and X were in the bottom quarter, accounting for only 10.5% ITLs. The correlation between the chromosome ranking in the total group of 6003 tumors and the ranking in individual tumor types was significant, ranging from P < .0001 to .0033. Thus, contrary to my hypothesis, different tumor types share a common nuclear map of chromosome territories. Based on the large number of ITLs in 11 different types of malignancy one can discern a shared pattern of chromosome territories in cancer and propose a probabilistic model of chromosomes 1, 8, 11, 17, 19 in the center of the nucleus and chromosomes 13, 15, 18, 21, X at the periphery.
Analyzing Wetland Dynamics Using Geospatial Techniques: A Case of Abay Choman and Jimma Geneti Watershed, Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Moisa Mitiku Badasa , Bulto Tadesse Weyuma , Werku Birhanu Chalchisa , Berkessa Yifru Waktole , Chebo Abdella Kosa , Negash Daniel Assefa , Gemeda Dessalegn Obsi
Published: January 2023

Wetland ecosystems are one of the most important areas that provides different ecosystems services as well as habitat for plant and animal species. In spite of multipurpose, wetland ecosystems are under threats. This study attempts to analyze wetland dynamics of Abay Choman and Jimma Geneti watershed in Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia using geospatial techniques. The land use land cover (LULC), the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) were investigated using Landsat 5 TM of 1991, Landsat 7ETM+ of 2003, and OLI/TIRS of 2021. In the present study, the LULC was classified using a supervised classification method with maximum likelihood algorithm. The red and infrared bands of Landsat imagery from three different time periods were used to calculate NDVI, while the NDWI was estimated using the green and near infrared (NIR) bands of multispectral Landsat images. Results show that wetland ecosystem in the study area decreased by about 125.2 km2 (8.8%) with the rate of 4.2 km2/year. In contrast, agricultural land increased by 223.4 km2 with the rate of 7.4 km2/year between 1991 and 2021. About 66.7 km2 wetland was converted to cultivated land whereas 29.3 and 24.7 km2 of grassland and shrubs land were converted into cultivated land. As a result, the maximum NDVI and NDWI values were decreased between 1991 and 2021. To minimize the rapid loss of wetland and water bodies in the study area, proper land use planning and environmental education should be promoted.
Getting to yes: An interview with Igor Vamos
Authors: Burkart Patrick , Vamos Igor
Published: January 2023

Patrick Burkart, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Communication: International Journal of Media and Culture, interviews Dr Igor Vamos, member of The Yes Men and Professor of Art at Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute, New York, USA. Dr Burkart and Dr Vamos discuss the formative years of experimentation with art and politics which informed Dr Vamos’s vision for The Yes Men's environmental activism and the prospects for an ecological politics.
Domestic overheating risks and mitigation strategies: The state-of-the-art and directions for future research
Authors: Alrasheed Mousa , Mourshed Monjur
Published: January 2023

Anthropogenic climate change will likely put dwellings at risk of overheating and potentially increase cooling demand in the decades ahead, leading to higher greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to the energy consumed for mechanical cooling. Contemporary constructions with highly insulated fabric have been found to suffer from periodic overheating in today’s climate, the occurrence of which is projected to increase in frequency as the temperature rises. This critical review investigates the factors affecting overheating risks in dwellings and passive cooling strategies to mitigate overheating impacts on occupant thermal comfort and wellbeing. The cooling efficiency of passive strategies is affected by the design, construction and operation of buildings, as well as climate and occupancy. A framework has been developed to illustrate the effect of overheating factors on the cooling efficacy of passive strategies. Findings suggest that a combination of passive strategies is required to minimise overheating risks by the 2080s. External solar shading is the most effective method for retrofitting insulated dwellings. On the other hand, cool paint is ideal for uninsulated dwellings. In addition, thermal mass and natural ventilation require occupant interaction for optimal air circulation and cooling performance.
Introduction to the special section: Tribal marketing after Covid
Authors: Coffin Jack , Cova Bernard , Shankar Avi
Published: January 2023

This article introduces the special section, “Tribal Marketing After Covid: Consuming Together in an Age of Social Distance.” The authors trace the history of tribal marketing theory up until the present, ‘post-Covid' era, outlining each wave and some trajectories for future research.
Bibliometric Analysis: Bridging Informatics With Science
Authors: Lazarides Miltos K. , Lazaridou Irene-Zacharo , Papanas Nikolaos
Published: January 2023

Bibliometric analysis represents a new tool for classifying and quantitatively assessing bibliographic material (publications, citations, authors, institutions, etc) of a scientific discipline. Is a computer-assisted review and, therefore, it should follow the methodology of a systematic review. These analyses download bibliographic data from electronic databases analyzing them and extracting several indicators (such as the h-index). Analysis can be enhanced by adding scientific maps using specific software. These analyses are increasingly accepted in the medical literature to identify the most influential papers/authors/institutions on a given topic. During the last decade, there is a remarkable increase in the number of published bibliometric analysis articles.
Becoming Bayek: Blackness, Egypt, and Identity in Assassin's Creed: Origins
Authors: Keefer Katrina HB
Published: January 2023

This article is an exploration of one of the bestselling single player RPGs from the Assassin's Creed series, 2017's Origins, as understood through a framework of cultural race and identity theory. This article relies on theories of identity and how we experience gameworlds as players, and how our sense of self is represented in virtual bodies. The article also considers and closely analyzes the game on its historicity—the franchise is one which is often touted as being extremely accurate, but as the article shows, there are inherent flaws and longstanding tropes which remain. This approach is an interdisciplinary one, using cultural history drawn from both an Africanist and a Classicist perspective alongside more recent theories, in particular those of Stuart Hall, to interpret the power of the immersive single player game.
The function and regulation of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein ε
Authors: Cheng Shaowen , Yang Jian , Wang Yudie , Xian Lina , Hu Zhihua , Zou Lingyun
Published: January 2023

In recent years, studies on the structure, function, and regulation of the C/EBPε gene have become an essential topic in the field of many diseases. CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein ε (C/EBPε) is the fifth member of the transcription factor CCAAT/C/EBP family of transcription factors. It plays crucial roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, immunity, energy metabolism, and hematopoiesis. C/EBPε plays essential roles in regulating the hematopoietic system, including myeloid cell development and maturation, participation in the body’s immune responses, and prevention of infections. C/EBPε function is regulated by phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, and other types of genes. This review related to C/EBPε structure, function and regulation provides a theoretical basis for subsequent research in this area. C/EBPε is an emerging therapeutic target and thus provides new strategies for disease prevention and control.
A regionalism shift? Chinese undergraduate students’ choice of study in Asia Under COVID-19
Authors: Gu Feifei , Shen Wenqin , Zhang Kun
Published: January 2023

This paper draws attention to the current and possible effects of COVID-19 on the mobility trajectories of mainland Chinese students studying in Asia. By drawing on 35 biographical interviews, this paper focuses on their decision to study in Asian countries and regions. Particularly, it calls for more attention to Asia in global student mobilities and discusses whether COVID-19 has changed the position of Asia in the global landscape of student mobility. Results show that even if COVID-19 provides an opportunity for Asian universities to embrace more international students, Asia still lacks the capability to attract great numbers of them. Finally, the study argues that college students’ choice of mobility destinations is shaped by their perception of the central–periphery structure of higher education, which is hard to be shaken by the pandemic.
Decline in spontaneous cervical artery dissection incidence during COVID-19 public health measures: Evidence for a role of upper respiratory infections in pathogenesis
Authors: Mayer-Suess Lukas , Heidbreder Anna , Kiechl Stefan , Knoflach Michael
Published: January 2023

Background:

Upper respiratory infections have been suggested as a risk factor for spontaneous cervical artery dissection (sCeAD). If this is the case, public health measures implemented to contain the spread of SARS-CoV-2, which also reduced other communicable diseases such as influenza, might be associated with a reduction in cervical artery dissection incidence.

Aims:

We determined the incidence of sCeAD before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated public health measures.

Methods:

All patients suffering an sCeAD and seen in Innsbruck Austria, between January 2002 to December 2016 (pre-COVID comparators) and between January 2020 to August 2022 were recorded through two individual prospective cohort studies. We compared admission rates, demographic, and clinical characteristics of sCeAD patients in pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 times.

Results:

In total, 249 sCeAD patients were admitted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic compared to 20 during its course. Baseline characteristics of sCeAD subjects did not differ in subjects admitted during and prior to the pandemic. Following the introduction of public health measures for the pandemic, there was a marked decrease of sCeAD admissions from 16.5 per year to 6.3 per year (p = 0.012). Since the measures were ended the number of sCeAD admissions increased again. In contrast, the number of all ischemic stroke patients treated at the Medical University of Innsbruck did not alter during the pandemic. (N per year: 633 in 2015, 687 in 2017, 684 in 2019, 731 in 2020, and 717 in 2021).

Conclusion:

The incidence of sCeAD fell markedly during the pandemic and this may have resulted from the public health measures introduced and a subsequent reduction in upper respiratory infections. Our study provides indirect evidence for a role of infection in the pathogenesis of sCeAD.

Data access statement:

Anonymized data not published within this article will be made available by request from any qualified investigator.
Neuromuscular adaptations to different set configurations during a periodized power training block in elite junior Judokas
Authors: Harris Dale M , Oranchuk Dustin J , Latella Christopher
Published: January 2023

Although the impacts of traditional sets (TS) versus cluster (CL) sets resistance training have been broadly explored among recreationally trained populations, no studies have previously compared these set configurations among elite Judokas. Twenty-two elite male and female Judokas (age = 17.5 ± 1.2 years) performed identical periodized 4-week hypertrophy and strength blocks (8 weeks in total). Following this, for the final 4-week power training block, the cohort was separated into either TS (n = 11) or CL (n = 11) set structures. CL were prescribed by including 45-second intra-set rest every two repetitions. One-repetition maximum (1RM) and peak barbell velocities of the back squat and bench press, and countermovement (CMJ) jump height were assessed before and following each 4-week mesocycle. Significant strength and power improvements were observed after the 4-week hypertrophy training block (1RM bench press = Δ3.82 kg, ES [95% CI] = 1.34 [0.76, 1.93], p < 0.001; 1RM squat = Δ4.71 kg, ES = 0.52 [0.07, 0.96], p = 0.024; CMJ height = Δ0.54 cm, ES = 0.62 [0.16, 1.07], p = 0.008) and after the 4-week maximal strength training block (1RM bench press = Δ1.5 kg, ES = 0.68 [0.21, 1.41], p = 0.004; 1RM squat = Δ5.47 kg, ES = 0.61 [0.15, 1.06], p = 0.010; CMJ height = Δ0.45 cm, ES = 0.71 [0.23, 1.17], p = 0.003). However, no time × group differences were observed between the TS and CL groups following the 4-week power training block. Though traditional periodized resistance training improved neuromuscular qualities of elite junior Judokas, no between-group neuromuscular differences using either TS or CL suggests that both methods may be used as part of periodized training programs.
Gender equality and female incarceration: Evidence from global and regional analyses
Authors: Chu Doris C , Hebenton Bill , Toh Albert
Published: January 2023

This article examines the nature of female1incarceration patterns globally and regionally in relation to societal gender equality using cross-national analysis of 138 countries. Importantly, our analysis uses a conceptually innovative gender-specific indicator (the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index) to determine relative levels of gender equality. Results of our study show that globally, countries with a narrower gender gap in economic participation made higher use of female incarceration, and this was also the case in the Asian and European regions. Countries with a narrower gap in political empowerment were found to have lower female incarceration rates globally and in the European region, but have higher female incarceration rates in the African region. Limitations are noted and suggestions for future studies are made.
Severity of illness and mortality among children admitted to a tertiary referral hospital in Botswana: A secondary data analysis of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Richards Sheyla Denise , Hayes Molly , Mazhani Loeto , Arscott-Mills Tonya , Mulale Unami , Coffin Susan , Steenhoff Andrew P , Kitt Eimear
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

Data on triage practices of children admitted to Princess Marina Hospital in Gaborone, Botswana is limited. The inpatient triage, assessment, and treatment score was developed for low resource settings to predict mortality in children. We assess its performance among children admitted to Princess Marina Hospital and their demographic, clinical, and risk factors for death.

Methods:

This was a secondary data analysis of a prospective cohort study comprising 299 children ages 1 month to 13 years admitted June to September 2018. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression were used. Sensitivity and specificity data were generated for the inpatient triage, assessment, and treatment score.

Results:

Thirteen children died (13/284, 4.6%). Comorbidity (adjusted odds ratio 4.0, p = 0.020) and high inpatient triage, assessment, and treatment score (adjusted odds ratio 5.0, p = 0.017) increased odds of death. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.81. Using inpatient triage, assessment, and treatment cutoff of 4, the sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratio were 31%, 94%, and 5.0, respectively.

Conclusion:

Implementing the inpatient triage, assessment, and treatment score in low resource settings may improve identification, treatment, and evaluation of the sickest children.
Spatial concentration and the social distance of migrants: Evidence from Shanghai
Authors: Zeng Donglin , Wu Xiaogang , Chen Wei
Published: January 2023

This paper examines whether the spatial concentration of migrants from the same province of origin (native-place in-group members) is associated with a greater degree of social distance from the native residents in Shanghai. Applying spatial clustering analysis to government population registration data, we first define spatial concentration as a high representation of native-place in-group members in a series of adjacent neighborhoods. Combining individual information with household survey data from the Shanghai Urban Neighborhood Survey, we link respondents with population registration data using information on the geographic location of each respondent and distinguish migrants living in spatially clustered communities from their counterparts living elsewhere. This study has two main findings. First, the spatial concentration of in-group members reinforces group identity. Second, migrants living in in-group-clustered communities tend to have a larger social distance from the native residents. We argue that this increased social distance can be explained by the residential segregation created by the spatial concentration of in-group members. We further classify in-group-concentrated communities into segregated and non-segregated communities. Compared with migrants living in non-segregated communities, only those living in segregated communities have a larger social distance from native residents. This finding is only applied to the sample of urban communities. We suspect that the spatial concentration of in-group members leads to greater preservation of the social norms and culture of migrants.
Minimally Invasive Surgery Using a Shannon Burr for the Treatment of Hallux Valgus Deformity: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gonzalez Tyler , Encinas Rodrigo , Johns William , Benjamin Jackson J.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Recently there has been an increase in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for the correction of hallux valgus deformity. This systematic review aims to evaluate and present the current literature on MIS hallux valgus correction in studies reporting the use of the Shannon burr with distal metatarsal osteotomies to help establish evidence-based guidelines for surgeons using this technique.

Methods:

Two independent authors performed a systematic literature search using the following databases: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol and the Cochrane Handbook guidelines were followed. All studies included were published from 2008 to 2022 and included the use of the Shannon burr during distal metatarsal osteotomies MIS for hallux valgus and at least 12-month follow-up. The MINORS score criteria was used to evaluate the strength and quality of 17 studies by 3 authors. Statistical analysis and meta-analysis were not performed because of the heterogeneity of the included studies and the data being descriptive.

Results:

A total of 17 studies were reviewed. A total of 911 subjects were included, and 1088 MIS procedures were performed. The average follow-up was 23.8 (12-59.1) months. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society scale and visual analog scale scores improved from 52.1 (41-62.5) to 90.3 (83.3-97.1) and 4.9 (3-8.2) to 0.8 (0-1.9). Satisfaction rates were very high among the studies that reported it. The hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, and distal metatarsal articular angle improved from 31.4 (23.5-44.1) to 11.1 (7-17.2), 13.4 (8.1-18.6) to 7.3 (4.2-10.3), and 12.3 (9-16.3) to 4.1 (1-6.7), respectively. The complication rate was 16.6%, and recurrence was 2.2%. Nonunion comprised 0.4%, infections 1.1%, nerve injury 2.2%, avascular necrosis 0%, hallux varus 0.09%, transfer metatarsalgia 0.1%, and hardware removal 6.2%.

Conclusion:

MIS for the treatment of hallux valgus using the Shannon burr appears to be a safe and effective therapy, with appropriate correction of the hallux valgus deformity, improvement in functional outcomes, high patient satisfaction, low recurrence, and acceptable complication rates.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, systematic review.
Investigation of mechanical characterization of hybrid sandwich composites with syntactic foam core for structural applications
Authors: Afolabi Olusegun Adigun , Kanny Krishnan , Mohan Turup Pandurangan
Published: January 2023

In this work, mechanical performance on sandwich composites consisting of syntactic foam filled with hollow glass microsphere in an epoxy resin matrix as the core material and hybrid kenaf/glass fibers face-sheet based composites panel is studied. The main purpose of this work is to design a suitable lightweight composite panel material for structural application. Four different sequences of face-sheet reinforcement (e.g., kenaf-kenaf; glass-glass; glass-kenaf, and kenaf-glass) were adopted. In this study, the mechanical properties and failure modes are carefully investigated. The sandwich composites were characterized by compressive, tensile, and flexural properties. The results showed that compressive strength was highest at the “kenaf-glass” face-sheets, tensile strength was highest at “glass-glass” face-sheets, and flexural at “glass-glass” face-sheets with 52.1%, 67.6%, and 74.4% increase to “kenaf-kenaf” face-sheets, respectively. The tensile strength and modulus values with the specific strengths and modulus values showed that the mechanical properties of the sandwich composites can be influenced by hybridizing the face-sheet laminates of the composite. This shows that kenaf fiber has limited strength when used as reinforcement alone but gave an excellent performance when combined with glass fiber.
Understanding the Public Health Role, Motivations, and Perceptions of Community Health Workers Deployed to Low-Income Housing in Richmond, Virginia
Authors: Obasanjo Iyabo , Scott Alison , Griffin Monica , Agyemang-Duah Amma , Westhoff Charlie , Toney Stephanie , Shelton Patrice
Published: January 2023

Background

For the US health indicators to improve to the level of other developed countries, the use of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in vulnerable populations has been indicated as a possible long-term intervention. There are few models of long-term deployment of CHWs as part of the district level public health system in the US.

Method

In this study we interviewed CHWs who served as neighborhood-integrated health district staff assigned to low-income housing in Richmond, Virginia for 10 years. Qualitative analyses of their taped and transcribed interviews resulted in 5 themes from the interviews. The themes were Activities, Satisfaction, Strengths, Facilitation/Resources and Challenges. We highlighted quotes from the CHWs interviews for themes and summarized the findings from each theme.

Results

CHWs carried out a variety of activities daily and these were described. The CHWs were generally satisfied with their job because it enabled them to assist others. The strength of their communities was resilience, and the resources they needed more included physical resources, human resources, political support, and more comprehensive programming. Their client’s challenges include transportation, mental health, and physical safety and the CHWs challenge to effectively carrying out their work with clients was trust by community members.

Conclusion

The information garnered from the CHWs would be useful in designing CHW programs at other health districts.
How a Despotic Project Manager Jeopardizes Project Success: The Role of Project Team Members’ Emotional Exhaustion and Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Iqbal Rimsha , Nauman Shazia , Shahzadi Raheela , Luqman Adeel
Published: January 2023

Drawing on conservation of resources theory, our study investigates whether a project manager’s despotic leadership style influences project success directly and indirectly through the underlying mechanism of project team members’ emotional exhaustion. Additionally, the moderating role of project team members’ emotional intelligence (EI) between despotic leadership and emotional exhaustion is also examined. Data were collected from the project-based employees working in telecommunications organizations (n = 250) using a time-lagged survey in three waves. The result indicates that despotic leadership has a significant negative influence on project success, and emotional exhaustion partially mediates this relationship. Moreover, conforming to a rare line of inquiry that there is a dark side to being emotionally intelligent, our findings show that the effect of despotic leadership style on emotional exhaustion is stronger when a project team member is highly emotionally intelligent. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Central nervous system relapse in younger patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a LYSA and GLA/DSHNHL analysis
Authors: Thieblemont Catherine , Altmann Bettina , Frontzek Fabian , Renaud Loïc , Chartier Loic , Ketterer Nicolas , Récher Christian , Poeschel Viola , Fitoussi Olivier , Held Gerhard , Casasnovas Olivier , Haioun Corinne , Morschhauser Franck , Glass Bertram , Mounier Nicolas , Tilly Herve , Rosenwald Andreas , Ott German , Lenz Georg , Molina Thierry , Ziepert Marita , Schmitz Norbert
Published: January 2023

Most patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) can be cured with immunochemotherapy such as R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone). Patients with progression or relapse in the central nervous system (CNS) face dismal outcomes. The impact of more aggressive regimens used in frontline therapy has not been systematically investigated in this context. To this end, we analyzed a large cohort of 2203 younger patients with DLBCL treated on 10 German (German Lymphoma Alliance [GLA]/The German High Grade Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Study Group [DSHNHL]) and French (The Lymphoma Study Association [LYSA]) prospective phase 2 and 3 trials after first-line therapy with R-CHOP, R-CHOEP (R-CHOP + etoposide), dose-escalated R-CHOEP followed by repetitive stem cell transplantation (R-MegaCHOEP), or R-ACVBP (rituximab, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vindesine, bleomycine, and prednisone) followed by consolidation including multiple drugs crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Patients with DLBCL with an age-adjusted International Prognostic Index (aaIPI) of 0 to 1 showed very low cumulative incidence rates of CNS relapse regardless of first-line therapy and CNS prophylaxis (3-year cumulative incidences 0%-1%). Younger high-risk patients with aaIPI of 2 to 3 had 3-year cumulative incidence rates of 1.6% and 4% after R-ACVBP plus consolidation or R-(Mega)CHO(E)P, respectively (hazard ratio 2.4; 95% confidence interval: 0.8-7.4; P = .118). Thus, for younger high-risk patients, frontline regimens incorporating agents crossing the BBB may reduce often fatal CNS relapse.
GENTLE: a novel bioinformatics tool for generating features and building classifiers from T cell repertoire cancer data
Authors: Andrade Dhiego Souto , Terrematte Patrick , Rennó-Costa César , Zilberberg Alona , Efroni Sol
Published: January 2023

Background

In the global effort to discover biomarkers for cancer prognosis, prediction tools have become essential resources. TCR (T cell receptor) repertoires contain important features that differentiate healthy controls from cancer patients or differentiate outcomes for patients being treated with different drugs. Considering, tools that can easily and quickly generate and identify important features out of TCR repertoire data and build accurate classifiers to predict future outcomes are essential.

Results

This paper introduces GENTLE (GENerator of T cell receptor repertoire features for machine LEarning): an open-source, user-friendly web-application tool that allows TCR repertoire researchers to discover important features; to create classifier models and evaluate them with metrics; and to quickly generate visualizations for data interpretations. We performed a case study with repertoires of TRegs (regulatory T cells) and TConvs (conventional T cells) from healthy controls versus patients with breast cancer. We showed that diversity features were able to distinguish between the groups. Moreover, the classifiers built with these features could correctly classify samples (‘Healthy’ or ‘Breast Cancer’)from the TRegs repertoire when trained with the TConvs repertoire, and from the TConvs repertoire when trained with the TRegs repertoire.

Conclusion

The paper walks through installing and using GENTLE and presents a case study and results to demonstrate the application’s utility. GENTLE is geared towards any researcher working with TCR repertoire data and aims to discover predictive features from these data and build accurate classifiers. GENTLE is available on https://github.com/dhiego22/gentle and https://share.streamlit.io/dhiego22/gentle/main/gentle.py.
Low-dose whole-spine imaging using slot-scan digital radiography: a phantom study
Authors: Ichikawa Shigeji , Muto Hiroe , Imao Masashi , Nonaka Takashi , Sakekawa Kouji , Sato Yasutaka
Published: January 2023

Background

Slot-scan digital radiography (SSDR) is equipped with detachable scatter grids and a variable copper filter. In this study, this function was used to obtain parameters for low-dose imaging for whole-spine imaging.

Methods

With the scatter grid removed and the beam-hardening (BH) filters (0.0, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3 mm) inserted, the tube voltage (80, 90, 100, 110, or 120 kV) and the exposure time were adjusted to 20 different parameters that produce equivalent image quality. Slot-scan radiographs of an acrylic phantom were acquired with the set parameters, and the optimal parameters (four types) for each filter were determined using the figure of merit. For the four types of parameters obtained in the previous section, SSDR was performed on whole-spine phantoms by varying the tube current, and the parameter with the lowest radiation dose was determined by visual evaluation.

Results

The parameters for each filter according to the FOM results were 90 kV, 400 mA, and 2.8 ms for 0.0 mm thickness; 100 kV, 400 mA, and 2.0 ms for 0.1 mm thickness; 100 kV, 400 mA, and 2.8 ms for 0.2 mm thickness; and 110 kV, 400 mA, and 2.2 ms for 0.3 mm thickness. Visual evaluation of the varying tube currents was performed using these four parameters when the BH filter thicknesses were 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mm. The entrance surface dose was 59.44 µGy at 90 kV, 125 mA, and 2.8 ms; 57.39 µGy at 100 kV, 250 mA, and 2.0 ms; 46.89 µGy at 100 kV, 250 mA, and 2.8 ms; and 39.48 µGy at 110 kV, 250 mA, and 2.2 ms, indicating that the 0.3-mm BH filter was associated with the minimum dose.

Conclusion

Whole-spine SSDR could reduce the dose by 79% while maintaining the image quality.
Exosomes from high glucose-treated macrophages promote epithelial–mesenchymal transition of renal tubular epithelial cells via long non-coding RNAs
Authors: Yang Huayu , Bai Yu , Fu Chen , Liu Wenhu , Diao Zongli
Published: January 2023

Background

Macrophages contribute to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) derived from macrophages play a major role in transmitting biological information, whereas related studies on DN are rare. Here we investigated the effects of exosomal lncRNAs from high glucose-treated macrophages on EMT.

Methods

High glucose-treated macrophage exosomes (HG-exos) were extracted by coprecipitation and stabilized. Then, mouse renal tubular epithelial cells were treated with HG-exos for 24 h. Expression of E-cadherin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibronectin was detected by western blotting, qPCR, and immunofluorescence. High-throughput sequencing was then applied to analyze the bioinformatics of HG-exos.

Results

HG-exos inhibited the proliferation of tubular epithelial cells. Additionally, HG-exos markedly upregulated α-SMA and fibronectin expression and downregulated E-cadherin expression in tubular epithelial cells, indicating EMT induction. A total of 378 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 674 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified by high-throughput sequencing of HG-exos. Bioinformatics analysis and subsequent qPCR validation suggested 27 lncRNAs were enriched in the EMT-related MAPK pathway. Among them, ENSMUST00000181751.1, XR_001778608.1, and XR_880236.2 showed high homology with humans.

Conclusion

Exosomes from macrophages induce EMT in DN and lncRNAs in exosomes enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway may be the possible mechanism.
Kidney dysfunction: prevalence and associated risk factors in a community-based study from the North West Province of South Africa
Authors: Navise Nonkululeko Hellen , Mokwatsi Gontse Gratitude , Gafane-Matemane Lebo Francina , Fabian June , Lammertyn Leandi
Published: January 2023

Background

Globally, the World Health Organization ranks chronic kidney disease (CKD) as one of the top 10 causes of mortality. In South Africa, where noncommunicable diseases have become leading causes of mortality, the true population prevalence of CKD is unknown and associated risk factors remain understudied. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of kidney dysfunction and associated risk factors in a community from the North West province of South Africa.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1999 participants older than 30 years. Kidney dysfunction was defined as (i) estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 90 ml/min/1.73m2, or (ii) urine albuminuria-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) ≥ 3.0 mg/mmol, or a combination (i and ii). Risk factors included age, sex, urban/rural locality, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), lipid profile, haemoglobin A1c (HbA1C), C-reactive protein (CRP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), tobacco use, and HIV status.

Results

Mean age of participants was 48 (42;56) years, and 655/1999 (33%) had eGFR < 90 ml/min/1.73m2and/or uACR ≥ 3.0 mg/mmol. Compared to those with normal kidney function, participants with eGFR < 90 ml/min/1.73m2and/or uACR ≥ 3.0 mg/mmol were older, female, had higher measures of adiposity, systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure, serum lipids and C-reactive protein (CRP) (all p ≤ 0.024). In multiple regression analyses eGFR was associated with systolic BP (β = 0.11) and HIV infection (β = -0.09), and albuminuria was associated with elevated CRP (β = 0.12) and HIV infection (β = 0.11) (all p < 0.026). In both groups (individuals with and without kidney dysfunction respectively), eGFR was associated with age (β = -0.29, β = -0.49), male sex (β = 0.35, β = 0.28), BMI (β = -0.12, β = -0.09), low-density/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (β = -0.17, β = -0.09) and CRP (β = 0.10, β = 0.09) (all p < 0.005); and uACR was associated with female sex (β = 0.10, β = -0.14), urban locality (β = -0.11, β = -0.08), BMI (β = -0.11, β-0.11), and systolic BP (β = 0.27, β = 0.14) (all p < 0.017).

Conclusion

In this study from the North West province, South Africa, eGFR < 90 ml/min/1.73m2and/or uACR ≥ 3.0 mg/mmol was prevalent and associated with modifiable risk factors. The findings may inform screening strategies for kidney disease prevention, focusing on women, obesity, blood pressure control, dyslipidaemia, identifying and treating inflammation, and HIV diagnosis and treatment.
Remote follow-up after cataract surgery (CORE-RCT): study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Claessens Janneau L. J. , Wanten Joukje C. , Bauer Noël J. C. , Nuijts Rudy M. M. A. , Findl Oliver , Huemer Josef , Imhof Saskia M. , Wisse Robert P. L.
Published: January 2023

Background

Cataract surgery has become one of the most performed surgical procedures worldwide. Postoperative management consists of routine clinical examinations to assess post-operative visual function and detect possible adverse events. Due to the low incidence of complications, the majority of clinic visits after cataract surgery are uneventful. Nonetheless, valuable time and hospital resources are consumed. We hypothesize that remote post-operative follow-up involving teleconsultations and self-assessments of visual function and health status, could be a valid alternative to face-to-face clinical examinations in selected patient groups. The practice of remote follow-up after cataract surgery has not yet been evaluated. The aim of this study is to investigate the validity, safety and cost-effectiveness of remote cataract surgery follow-up, and to report on the patients’ experiences with remotely self-assessing visual function.

Methods

This study is a multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial. Patients planned for cataract surgery on both eyes, without ocular comorbidities, are eligible for participation. Participants will be allocated (1:1) into one of the two study groups: ‘telemonitoring’ or ‘usual care’. Participants in the ‘telemonitoring’ group will perform in-home assessments after cataract surgery (remote web-based eye exams and digital questionnaires on their own devices). Participants in the ‘usual care’ group will have regular post-operative consultations, according to the study site’s regular practice. Outcome measures include accuracy of the web-based eye exam for assessing visual acuity and refraction, patient-reported outcome measures (visual function and quality of life), adverse events, and cost aspects.

Discussion

Investigating remote follow-up after cataract surgery fits the current trends of digitization of health care. We believe that remote self-care can be a promising avenue to comply with the increasing demands of cataract care. This randomized controlled trial provides scientific evidence on this unmet need and delivers the desired insights on (cost)effectiveness of remote follow-up after cataract surgery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04809402. Date of registration: March 22, 2021.
The Malay version of the caregiver assessment of function and upset instrument (Malay-CAFU): a translation and validation study among informal stroke caregivers
Authors: Hamzah Nurfaten , Musa Kamarul Imran , Romli Muhammad Hibatullah , Chen Xin Wee , Rahim Mohd Zulkifli Abdul , Abdullah Jafri Malin , Suliman Mohd Azmi , Ibrahim Mohd Ismail , Ismail Tengku Alina Tengku , Nadal Iliatha Papachristou , Kamalakannan Suresh Kumar
Published: January 2023

Background

Post-stroke complications affect the informal caregivers equally as the stroke survivors, especially those who have a moderate to worst prognosis in functional capacity recovery. Caregiver Assessment of Function and Upset (CAFU) is one of the common tools used in both research and clinical practice to measure the patient’s dependency level and the stroke caregivers' upset level.

Objective

This study aimed to translate and validate the CAFU instrument into the Malay language and test the validity and reliability of the CAFU among informal stroke caregivers in Malaysia.

Methods

A standard forward-backward translation method was employed to translate CAFU. Subsequently, 10 expert panels were included in the validation process, and thereafter reliability testing was conducted among 51 stroke caregivers. The validation of the instrument was determined by computing the content validity indices (CVIs), and we used the Cronbach’s alpha method to explore the internal consistency of the overall score and subscales scores of the Malay-CAFU. Finally, the explanatory factor analysis used principal component extraction and a varimax rotation to examine construct validity.

Results

All items of the Malay-CAFU had satisfactory item-level CVI (I-CVI), with values greater than 0.80, and the scale-level CVI (S-CVI) was 0.95. These results indicate that the Malay-CAFU had good relevancy. The internal consistency for the reliability test showed a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.95 for the overall score. The eigenvalues and scree plot supported a two-factor structural model of the instrument. From the explanatory factor analysis, the factor loadings ranged from 0.82 to 0.90 and 0.56 to 0.83, respectively.

Conclusion

The Malay-CAFU questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument to assess the dependence level of stroke survivors and the upset level of informal stroke caregivers in Malaysia.
LncRNA AK089514/miR-125b-5p/TRAF6 axis mediates macrophage polarization in allergic asthma
Authors: Zhu Xiaolong , He Ling , Li Xueqin , Pei Weiya , Yang Hui , Zhong Min , Zhang Mengying , Lv Kun , Zhang Yingying
Published: January 2023

Background

Micro RNA (miRNA) plays important roles in macrophage polarization. However, the manner in which miRNA regulate macrophage polarization in response to dermatophagoides farinae protein 1(Der f1)-induced asthma has not been defined. This study aims to explore the role of miRNAs in regulating macrophages in asthma.

Methods

The microRNAs which may regulate asthma were selectd by Microarrays. The function of miR-125b-5p in macrophage and Der f1-induced asthma were detected in vivo experiment. The long non coding RNA (lncRNA) AK089514/miR-125b-5p/TRAF6 axis was predicted by bioinformatics and confirmed by dual luciferase reporter assay.

Results

In this study, we found that miR-125b-5p is highly expressed in M2 macrophages and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cells with Der f1-induced asthma. In response to the challenge of Der f1, miR-125b-5p KD attenuated allergic airway inflammation of mice by preventing M2 macrophages polarization. Mechanistic studies indicated that lncRNA AK089514 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA for miR-125b-5p, thereby leading to the depression of its endogenous target TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6).

Conclusions

miR-125b-5p is significantly over-expressed in asthma, and AK089514–miR-125b-5p–TRAF6 axis play critical role in asthma by modulating macrophage polarization. Our findings may provide a potential new target for potential therapeutic and diagnostic target in asthma.
The effectiveness of physeal bar resection with or without Hemi-Epiphysiodesis to treat partial growth arrest
Authors: Xiao Han , Li Miao , Zhu Guanghui , Tan Qian , Ye Weihua , Wu Jiangyan , Mei Haibo , Yan An
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the outcomes of distal femoral, proximal tibial, and distal tibial physeal bar resection combined with or without the Hemi-Epiphysiodesis procedure and provide a better understanding of the application of physeal bar resection combined with Hemi-Epiphysiodesis procedure in the treatment of physeal bar growth arrest.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the patients who suffered physeal bar and underwent physeal bar resection with or without the Hemi-Epiphysiodesis technique during 2010–2020. All were followed up for at least 2 years or to maturity. A modified mapping method was used to determine the area of a physeal bar by CT data. The aLDFA, aMPTA, aLDTA, MAD, and LLD were measured to assess the deformity of the lower limb.

Results

In total, 19 patients were included in this study. The average age was 8.9 years (range 4.4 to 13.3 years old). During the follow-up, 4 (21.1%) patients had an angular change < 5°; 12 (63.2%) patients had angular deformity improvement > 5° averaging 10.0° (range 5.3° to 23.2°), and 3 (15.8%) patients had improvement of the angular deformity averaging 16.8° (range 7.4° to 27.1°). Eleven patients (57.9%) had significant MAD improvement. After surgery, we found that 7 (36.8%) patients had an LLD change of < 5 mm and were considered unchanged. Only 2 (15%) patients had an LLD improvement > 5 mm averaging 1.0 cm (range 0.7 to 1.3 cm), and 7 (36.8%) patients had increasing of LLD > 5 mm averaging 1.3 cm (range 0.5 to 2.5 cm). There were no postoperative fractures, infections, or intraoperative complications such as neurovascular injury.

Conclusion

Physeal bar resection combined with Hemi-epiphysiodesis is helpful for partial epiphysis growth arrest. Without statistically verifying, we still believe that patients with limited growth ability could benefit more from physeal bar resection combined with Hemi-epiphysiodesis.
Female high school students' knowledge and attitude toward breast cancer
Authors: Mohebi Zahra , Heidari Sarvestani Maryam , Moradi Zahra , Naghizadeh Mohammad Mehdi
Published: January 2023

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Even though early detection and diagnosis of this disease can reduce mortality considerably, several studies have shown that more than 92% of women are unaware of the risk factors for breast cancer and of breast cancer screening tests. The simultaneous promotion of screening and provision of education can increase community health and reduce medical costs, and students can play a leading role in informing and educating people in society.

Aim

The present study aims to examine the level of knowledge and attitude of female students in senior high schools in Fasa regarding breast cancer screening.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, the random sampling method was applied to survey 350 female high school students, only 311 of whom completed the study. Questionnaires were completed in girls' high schools, and the data was analyzed by SPSS Software, Version 25.

Results

The results revealed that more than 87% of students were unaware or had incorrect information regarding breast cancer screening. The link between the type of breast cancer information sources and students' general knowledge was significant. Most students were aware of the risk of breast cancer, but they were uninformed of its symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies, and students with a family history of breast cancer had a higher score in terms of mammography knowledge than students with no family history of breast cancer, although this difference was not significant (mean ± standard deviation = 0.94 ± 0.90 vs. 0.67 ± 0.81,p = 0.19).

Conclusion

The level of awareness and attitude of Fasa high school girls regarding breast cancer and screening methods is not acceptable. Therefore, it is recommended that educational programs be implemented to increase the awareness of students in schools, so that the number of screenings increases with the institutionalization of this information. Likewise, by transferring information through students to their families, the level of awareness in the whole society will hopefully increase as well.