bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring Vietnamese-speaking English as a foreign language students’ socio-emotional skills
Authors: Hung Do Minh , Anh Le Thanh Nguyet , Ngan Vo Phan Thu , Tac Pham Van , Tinh Bui Thanh
Published: November 2024

Socio-emotional skills are crucial in learning processes and academic performances, but research in this field among college students, especially among Vietnamese-speaking students majoring in English as a foreign language (EFL) is still rare. Thus, the study attempts to fill this gap. As the first necessary part of a larger research project, the present study measured the target population’s socio-emotional skills via a 30-item questionnaire scale made up of two core components (the self and the others) embracing five subcomponents (self-awareness, self-regulation, self-utilization, empathy, and social skills). The sample group of 615 EFL majors from a university in Vietnam was surveyed. Statistic survey results show that the group appeared to reach a high level of socio-emotional skills in general. In addition, there was no significant gap between two core components, but five subcomponents stood out in a descending magnitude line of self-awareness>self-utilization, empathy>social skills>self-regulation. These significant findings provide constructive guidance needed for our research team to project instructional action plans in the subsequent phases. It also provokes further research on similar strands within Vietnam and beyond.
Specifics of population psychodiagnostics on the example of Kazakhstan, China, and Japan: a comparative analysis
Authors: Mynbayeva Aigerim , Zhou Mi , Minazheva Gulsharat , Seiitnur Zharas
Published: November 2024

This research aimed at analyzing the history of psychological testing in three Asian countries (Kazakhstan, China, and Japan) in a comparative chronological aspect. A modern trend of interest in population psychodiagnostics was examined, considering a sample of university professors from the studied countries. The study had two stages: theoretical (cross-cultural analysis of the chronological development of psychodiagnostics in three countries) and experimental (in-depth interviews with professors). The study population was 72 respondents. As a result, two periods of psychodiagnostics were distinguished in each country: prescientific and scientific. The general factors influencing the historical development of psychological testing were: i) country’s history and influence of wartime; ii) positive and negative influence of ideology (communist and capitalist) on the psychometrics’ development; iii) the history of psychology and testing in particular, its methodology and methods; iv) the emergence of regional trends in the cooperation and countries’ level of publicity. Consequently, based on the interview, the testing of career interests and individual career guidance significantly dominated in China (4.8) while in Japan it was testing of interpersonal relationships (4.9). The present study may be in demand in future research to develop specific questionnaires and methods for studying the population considering national and historical characteristics.
School resilience through quality management in early childhood education: a case study from Indonesia
Authors: Arifiyanti Nurul , Dwiningrum Siti Irene Astuti , Syamsudin Amir , Harun Harun
Published: November 2024

Poor management of the education system can cause a decrease in school quality. Moreover, the increasing of similar institutions in early childhood education (ECE) in Indonesia gives a school must have good resilience. These institutions must ensure that the educational programs they provide to children are of high quality, thus earning the trust of preschool parents. This article aimed to highlight the importance of paying attention to school management. Therefore, schools that already have good resilience need to be studied to have an impact on schools that are in the stagnant category. The method used was a case study with in-depth interviews. The results indicate that the resilience schools use four strategies to remain resilient. These strategies include having quality human resources, unique school programs, and school promotion. The research results highlight the importance of quality human resource management, superior programs such as foreign language learning and international curricula, and effective promotion in maintaining the resilience of educational institutions amidst competition.
Exploring teacher perceptions, commitment, and beliefs in STEM education: a systematic literature review analysis
Authors: Talib Sariati , Alias Bity Salwana , Matore Mohd Effendi Ewan Mohd
Published: November 2024

In recent times, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education has gained interest in preparing students to face the challenges of the modern world. STEM fields are important for nurturing and shaping a wide range of skills in society. Therefore, to ensure students acquire the necessary skills and knowledge, STEM education has become a priority in education systems around the world, with teachers playing an important role in ensuring the success of STEM education. Therefore, teachers’ perceptions, commitments and beliefs need to be explored to gain understanding, needs and challenges for teachers to implement STEM education. This study analyzed past research findings through the systematic literature review (SLR) method with the findings of 28 articles. The findings of this past study reveal the challenges, and opportunities faced by educators through their perceptions, commitments, and beliefs in STEM education for the actions of policymakers and school leaders.
Development and validation of doctoral student social support perception scale
Authors: Yang Xiaohan , Yeo Kee Jiar , Lee Shih-Hui , Wong Boon Yew , Handayani Lina
Published: November 2024

The perception of social support is crucial for doctoral students' academic careers, yet there is a notable absence of scales specifically designed to measure the social support that doctoral students receive. Consequently, there is a clear need for an effective tool to assess the level and nature of support perceived by these students. The Doctoral Students Social Support Perception Scale (DSSPS) is a multidimensional instrument developed to evaluate social support received by doctoral students from supervisors, family, and peers/friends. This scale operates in two phases: the first phase uses exploratory factor analysis to identify three potential dimensions of perceived social support: resource provision, emotional inspiration, and appropriate attention. The second phase employs confirmatory factor analysis to demonstrate the scale's robust overall fit. The results also indicate high internal consistency as well as convergent and discriminant validity. These findings suggest that the DSSPS is both an effective and reliable measure to assess the extent and nature of social support perceived by doctoral students.
A new protist literacy assessment for university students
Authors: Hardianto Hardianto , Mahanal Susriyati , Susanto Hendra , Prabaningtyas Sitoresmi , Zubaidah Siti
Published: November 2024

Protists are organisms that have close involvement with student life, especially in maintaining the balance of ecosystems on earth. Literacy instruments about protists are important to develop because students need to know the relationship between protists and life. This instrument was developed because there is no specific instrument to measure student protist literacy. The purpose of this study is to develop a new protist literacy assessment (N-PLA) for university students. The N-PLA development process consists of three stages, namely, i) dimension development, item development, and expert validation; ii) exploratory factor analysis (EFA), content validity, and data reduction; iii) internal consistency through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The results of the study found seven dimensions of protist literacy with a total of 36 items: conceptual knowledge (CnK) (7 item), relation information (RlI) (6 item), fact evaluation (FcE)
(5 item), real solution (RlS) (5 item), argument identification (ArI) (3 item), self-confidence (S-C) (4 item), and scientific value (ScV) (6 item). The developed N-PLA has a relationship between dimensions and items based on EFA and CFA test results. N-PLA has two types of instruments, namely by using tests and questionnaires to be able to measure the cognitive and affective of students. N-PLA is recommended as a measuring tool that can measure the protist literacy of university students. The results of measuring student’s protist literacy become a reference in empowering students protist literacy in the learning process in university.
Assessment for learning practices among Malay language teachers in Malaysia National Type Chinese School
Authors: Oya Siti Aishah Wan , Nordin Zaimuariffudin Shukri
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the issues Malay language teachers in Malaysia National Types Chinese School (SJKC) regarding the inconsistent application assessment for learning (AfL) practices, the persistence of traditional teachercentered, and the challenge of aligning AfL practices with curriculum standards and assessment criteria. These issues have a critical impact on the effectiveness of assessment, teaching, and learning. Given AfL’s potential to address educational challenges and enhance student outcomes, this study is highly relevant. To achieve this goal, a qualitative case study design approach, six participants were selected using the following criteria in purposive sampling, using data gathered from in-depth semi-structured interviews, informal conversations, lesson plans and assessment methods. Thematic analysis conducted using Atlas.ti, revealed three main themes: knowledge of AfL, AfL practice, and obstacles and challenges. The results show that most teachers primarily use belief AfL to improve student outcomes, but there are significant differences between beliefs and practices. Moreover, lack of knowledge which poses challenges due to shifts in curriculum standards and assessment administration in school. Given the results, suggestions embedding AfL principle into AfL practices to develop an objective framework for AfL and tracking second language learners’ language proficiency and progress, improving learning outcomes and language acquisition.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and the Pathogenesis of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Systematic Review on the Missing Link in a Complex Pathway
Authors: Nisson Peyton L. , Lawton Michael T. , Cisneros Oscar , Maeda Takuma , Gonzalez Nestor R. , Frösen Juhana , Hashimoto Tomoki
Published: November 2024

Background

Aneurysms are one of the most common and yet devastating cerebrovascular diseases after rupture. Despite several decades of scientific advancements including the expansion of the endovascular capabilities and noninvasive imaging modalities, no medical treatment exists to date. This failure is likely largely attributed to the complex and multifactorial nature of aneurysm pathophysiology. Recent research has increasingly implicated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the development and rupture of intracranial aneurysms. Regarded as one of the most potent inducers of angiogenesis, it is a key factor in vascular wall maintenance, inflammation, and regulation of vascular permeability. Whether abnormal VEGF expression is directly related to aneurysm development or acting merely as an acute phase reactant remains uncertain. No review of the current‐state‐of‐evidence on this topic exists yet.

Methods and Results

A systematic literature search was performed following PRISMA guidelines May 2024 that queried PubMed (1946–2024), Wiley Cochrane Library: Central Register of Controlled Trials (1898–2024), Thompson Reuters Web of Science: Citation Index (1900–2024), and Google Scholar (1946–2024). Inclusion criteria encompassed human and animal studies that investigated the relationship of intracranial aneurysm and VEGF. Several human and animal models revealed significantly elevated expression of VEGF in intracranial aneurysm tissue, along with greater levels in the cerebrospinal fluid and systemically. Overexpression has been shown to inhibit endothelial cell migration, proliferation, and induce cell apoptosis. Recently, genetic polymorphisms of VEGF have also been shown to significantly correlate with the presence of intracranial aneurysms, establishing the first genetic link between the two.

Conclusions

Despite lacking definitive evidence of a causal relationship, the wealth of supporting data substantiates VEGF as a promising topic for future investigation into aneurysm pathophysiology and as a potential therapeutic target.
Associations Between Health‐Related Social Needs and Cardiovascular Health Among US Adults
Authors: Zhang Zefeng , Jackson Sandra L. , Thompson‐Paul Angela M. , Yin Xiaoping , Merritt Robert K. , Coronado Fatima
Published: November 2024

Background

Unfavorable health‐related social needs (HRSNs) have the potential to worsen health and well‐being and drive health disparities. Its associations with cardiovascular health (CVH), assessed by Life's Essential 8, have not been comprehensively examined among US adults.

Methods and Results

We used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011 to March 2020 data for adults aged ≥20 years. We grouped Life's Essential 8 scores as low (0–49), moderate (50–79), and high (80–100) CVH. We identified 8 unfavorable HRSNs and assigned a value of 1 for the unfavorable status of each. The number of unfavorable HRSNs was summed and ranged from 0 to 8, with higher numbers indicating more unfavorable HRSNs. We used multivariable linear and multinomial logistic regression to examine the association between HRSNs and CVH. A total of 14 947 participants were included (n=7340 male [49.3%]; mean [SE] age, 46.4 [0.35] years). A higher number of unfavorable HRSNs were associated with worse CVH: comparing adults with unfavorable HRSNs of 1–2, 3–4, and ≥5 to those with none, the fully adjusted prevalence ratios (95% CI) for low CVH were 1.42 (1.17–1.73), 2.11 (1.69–2.63), and 2.42 (1.90–3.08), respectively. The corresponding prevalence ratios (95% CI) for high CVH were 0.77 (0.68–0.87), 0.58 (0.49–0.67), and 0.46 (0.38–0.55). The associations were consistent across subgroups and in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

There was a graded association between unfavorable HRSNs and a higher prevalence of low CVH or lower prevalence of high CVH. Public health interventions targeting HRSNs might reduce health disparities and promote CVH.
Lipoprotein(a) Is Elevated and Inversely Related to Coronary Endothelial Function in People With HIV
Authors: Kikuchi Daniel S. , Kwapong Yaa A. , Schär Michael , Weiss Robert G. , Sun Kevin , Brown Todd T. , Piggott Damani A. , Minhas Anum S. , Gerstenblith Gary , Soleimani‐Fard Alborz , Leucker Thorsten M. , Hays Allison G.
Published: November 2024

Background

HIV‐associated cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increasing in prevalence. The mechanisms underlying the heightened cardiovascular risk faced by people with HIV (PWH), however, remain poorly defined. Recent studies indicate an important role of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) in predicting CVD risk in the general population, but little is known regarding its role in HIV‐associated CVD. Thus, we sought to evaluate whether Lp(a) is elevated in PWH and if it is associated with impaired coronary endothelial function (CEF), a known mediator of CVD in PWH.

Methods and Results

In this cross‐sectional study, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging with isometric handgrip exercise, an endothelial dependent stressor, was performed to assess CEF in 65 PWH and 52 controls without HIV. Percent changes in coronary cross‐sectional area and coronary blood flow from rest to stress were used to quantify CEF. Lp(a) levels were assessed by immunoturbidimetric assay at the time of magnetic resonance imaging. Lp(a) levels were higher in PWH compared with controls (78 nmol/L [39–137 nmol/L] versus 45.5 nmol/L [18–102.5 nmol/L],
P
<0.01). Both percent change in coronary cross‐sectional area (0.38% [−6.1% to 5.4%] versus 7.43% [2.4%–11.2%],
P
<0.0005) and coronary blood flow (9.1% [−1.3% to 23.1%] versus 24.1% [3.3%–39.8%],
P
<0.05) were lower in PWH compared with controls. In PWH, Lp(a) was inversely associated with percent change in coronary cross‐sectional area (β=−6.18±1.01%/nmol/L,
P
<0.001) but not with percent change in coronary blood flow even after adjustment for confounding risk factors. No association between Lp(a) and measures of CEF was observed in individuals without HIV.

Conclusions

Lp(a) concentrations are elevated in PWH and inversely related to CEF in PWH.
Projections of the Stroke Burden at the Global, Regional, and National Levels up to 2050 Based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Cheng Yiran , Lin Yongqi , Shi Hujuan , Cheng Mingmei , Zhang Baoliang , Liu Xiaofeng , Shi Chuan , Wang Yanzhong , Xia Chunhua , Xie Wanqing
Published: November 2024

Background

Stroke is a pressing public health issue worldwide. This study aimed to forecast the future temporal trends and distribution characteristics of the global stroke burden.

Methods and Results

Global data on stroke incidence, prevalence, deaths, and disability‐adjusted life years between 1990 and 2021 were obtained from the GBD (Global Burden of Disease) Study 2021. The temporal trends of stroke burden were estimated using various regression models. Gross domestic product per capita was adopted as a predictor in the model to consider the impact of economic development on stroke burden. Projections of stroke burden up to 2050 were generated using the optimal model selected based on the Akaike information criterion, encompassing global, World Bank income levels, national levels, and sex‐age groups. In 2050, we projected 21.43 million stroke cases, 159.31 million survivors, 12.05 million deaths, and 224.86 million disability‐adjusted life years due to stroke globally. From 2021 to 2050, there was a declining trend in the global age‐adjusted stroke rates, with −7% in incidence, −4% in prevalence, −28% in deaths, and −28% in disability‐adjusted life years. Upper‐middle‐income countries were projected to have the most severe stroke burden, followed by lower‐middle‐income countries, low‐income countries, and high‐income countries. The stroke burden in over half of the 204 countries and territories was expected to be alleviated from 2022 to 2050. Men and older women worldwide bear higher burden.

Conclusions

Stroke remains a serious global health challenge, especially in low‐income and middle‐income countries. Targeted implementation of prevention and interventions is imperative across diverse demographic groups.
Prospective Observational Cohort Study of Tenecteplase: Results From the Indian Registry in Ischemic Stroke‐Tenecteplase
Authors: Saraf Amit , Gilvaz Percival C. , Ramakrishnan Tirppur C. R. , Kumar R. N. Komal , Meenakshi‐Sundaram Salvadeeswaran , Sontakke Santosh M. , Alurkar Anand , Kumaravelu Somasundaram , Vijaya Pamidimukkala , Udar Mangesh , Arjundas Deepak , Desai Soaham , Sharma Mukesh , BV Suresh , Nair Rithesh R. , Pathan Sadique , Pujari Shripad S. , Kumar Sudhir , Machhavada Keyur , Kalita Jayantee , Misra Usha K. , Vaidya Bhalchandra , Churilov Leonid , Parsons Mark W. , Singh Sanjay
Published: November 2024

Background

Tenecteplase has been approved for acute ischemic stroke at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg by the Indian licensing authority. A registry to evaluate the safety of tenecteplase was mandated by the licensing authority. The research aim was to use the Indian Registry in Ischemic Stroke‐Tenecteplase (IRIS‐TNK) to assess the safety and clinical outcomes in patients treated with tenecteplase in routine clinical practice.

Methods and Results

In this prospective, registry‐based observational, cohort study, the primary outcome was proportion of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhages at 36±6 hours after treatment. Secondary outcomes included improvement in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score by either ≥4 or 8 points or an NIHSS score of 0, assessment of excellent outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0 or 1), functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2), and Barthel Index score. From October 2017 to May 2023, 1015 patients with a median age of 62 years (interquartile range [IQR, 52–71 years]) were recruited across India. The median baseline NIHSS score was 9 (IQR, 6–13). The proportion of patients with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was 0.6% (95% CI, 0.2–1.3%), and 10 patients (1% [95% CI, 0.5–1.9%]) died within 3 months. Improvement in NIHSS score by ≥4 points or an NIHSS score of 0 at 24 hours was observed in 34.4% (95% CI, 31.5–37.4%) of patients. An excellent outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0 or 1) at 3 months was achieved in 55.4% (95% CI, 52.3–58.5%) of patients.

Conclusions

These results confirm that tenecteplase at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg is safe in routine clinical practice, when administered within 4.5 hours of symptom onset.

Registration

https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/
. Identifier: CTRI/2017/11/010380.
Mortality Risk in Patients With Cardiac Complications Following Ischemic Stroke: A Report From the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive
Authors: Ishiguchi Hironori , Huang Bi , El‐Bouri Wahbi K. , Dawson Jesse , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Abdul‐Rahim Azmil H. , Alexandrov A. , Bath P. M. , Bluhmki E. , Bornstein N. , Chen C. , Claesson L. , Curram J. , Davis S. M. , Diener H‐C. , Donnan G. , Fisher M. , Ginsberg M. , Gregson B. , Grotta J. , Hacke W. , Hennerici M. G. , Hommel M. , Kaste M. , Lyden P. , Marler J. , Muir K. , Roffe C. , Sacco R. , Teal P. , Venketasubramanian N. , Wahlgren N. G. , Warach S.
Published: November 2024

Background

Cardiac complications may occur in patients following ischemic stroke (stroke‐heart syndrome [SHS]). We investigated the mortality risk in patients with SHS and across the SHS manifestations.

Methods and Results

Data were sought from the VISTA (Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive), an international repository of clinical trials data. We reviewed relevant adverse events and classified patients into 2 cohorts based on the incidence of SHS. The SHS was defined as developing any cardiac complications within 30 days following stroke. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we evaluated the temporal risk dynamics of 90‐day death associated with the day of SHS onset. We also compared the risk of 90‐day death across SHS manifestations, using multivariate analysis. Among 15 054 patients with ischemic stroke (mean age, 69±12 years; 55% men), 1787 (11.8% [95% CI, 11.3–12.3]) developed SHS. The median onset time for SHS was 2 (interquartile range, 1–4) days. The most prevalent manifestation was other arrhythmia/ECG abnormalities, with the incidence rate of 6.5% (95% CI, 6.1–6.9). Patients who developed SHS between 10 and 30 days following stroke had significantly higher risks of death compared with those with SHS within the first 0 to 3 days (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.84 [95% CI, 1.36–2.49]).

In the multivariate‐adjusted analysis, SHS manifested as acute myocardial injury/myocardial injury, heart failure/left ventricular dysfunction, and atrial fibrillation/flutter were associated with the highest risk of death within 90 days after stroke across SHS manifestations excluding cardiorespiratory arrest.

Conclusions

SHS is associated with a high risk of death, with a greater risk observed with delayed SHS onset.
Complexity in speech and music listening via neural manifold flows
Authors: Runfola Claudio , Neri Matteo , Schön Daniele , Morillon Benjamin , Trébuchon Agnès , Rabuffo Giovanni , Sorrentino Pierpaolo , Jirsa Viktor
Published: November 2024

Understanding the complex neural mechanisms underlying speech and music perception remains a multifaceted challenge. In this study, we investigated neural dynamics using human intracranial recordings. Employing a novel approach based on low-dimensional reduction techniques, the Manifold Density Flow (MDF), we quantified the complexity of brain dynamics during naturalistic speech and music listening and during resting state. Our results reveal higher complexity in patterns of interdependence between different brain regions during speech and music listening compared with rest, suggesting that the cognitive demands of speech and music listening drive the brain dynamics toward states not observed during rest. Moreover, speech listening has more complexity than music, highlighting the nuanced differences in cognitive demands between these two auditory domains. Additionally, we validated the efficacy of the MDF method through experimentation on a toy model and compared its effectiveness in capturing the complexity of brain dynamics induced by cognitive tasks with another established technique in the literature. Overall, our findings provide a new method to quantify the complexity of brain activity by studying its temporal evolution on a low-dimensional manifold, suggesting insights that are invisible to traditional methodologies in the contexts of speech and music perception.
Systematics of the green lacewing tribe Ankylopterygini Navás, 1910 (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae: Chrysopinae) from China
Authors: WU JINGYU , LIU XINGYUE
Published: November 2024

A systematic revision of the taxonomy of the green lacewing tribe Ankylopterygini (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae: Chrysopinae) from China is present. Sixty-six species belonging to six genera are recorded and described. Keys to genera, subgenera and species are provided. A total of 201 COI barcodes (partial sequence of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)) from 49 species of the tribe are provided and used for molecular species delimitation. Nineta Navás, 1912 is treated as a subgenus of Tumeochrysa Needham, 1909. Two new generic synonyms are proposed: Tibetochrysa Yang, 1988, junior synonym of Retipenna Brooks, 1986; Sencera Navás, 1925, junior synonym of Ankylopteryx Brauer, 1864. Sixteen new species are described: Ankylopteryx hainanensis sp. nov., A. montipunctata sp. nov., A. stena sp. nov., Chrysopidia arcta sp. nov., C. macrosterna sp. nov., C. abdominata sp. nov., Tumeochrysa acuta sp. nov., T. breva sp. nov., T. biloba sp. nov., T. minina sp. nov., T. yangi sp. nov., Retipenna interrupta sp. nov., R. triphlebia sp. nov., Semachrysa pura sp. nov., Se. triloba sp. nov. and Signochrysa jianfenglingensis sp. nov. Twelve specific synonyms are proposed: Ankylopteryx yangi Ma, Yang & Liu, 2020, junior synonym of Ankylopteryx octopunctata candida (Fabricius, 1798), Chrysopidia yangi Yang & Lin, 1977, junior synonym of Chrysopidia junbesiana Hölzel, 1973; Chrysopidia fuscata Navás, 1914 and Chrysopidia tjederi Ma, 2022, junior synonyms of Chrysopidia regulata Navás, 1914; Tumeochrysa hui Yang, 1987, junior synonym of Tumeochrysa praeclara Hölzel, 1973; Tumeochrysa nyingchiana Yang, 1987, junior synonym of Tumeochrysa yunica Yang, 1986; Retipenna inordinata, Yang, 1997, junior synonym of Retipenna dasyphlebia (McLachlan, 1894); Retipenna chione (Banks, 1942 [1940]), junior synonym of Retipenna grahami (Banks, 1942 [1940]); Retipenna chaoi Yang & Yang, 1987, Retipenna guangdongana Yang & Yang, 1987 and Retipenna huai Yang & Yang, 1987, junior synonyms of Retipenna burmana Brooks, 1986; and Signochrysa hainanus (Yang & Yang, 1991), junior synonym of Signochrysa ornatissima (Nakahara, 1955). Eight new combinations are proposed: Retipenna phanera (Yang, 1987) comb. nov., R. sinica (Yang, 1988) comb. nov., Tumeochrysa abunda (Yang & Yang, 1989) comb. nov., T. dolichoptera (Navás, 1910) comb. nov., T. grandis (Navás, 1915) comb. nov., T. inpunctata (Reuter, 1894) comb. nov., T. shaanxiensis (Yang & Yang, 1989) comb. nov. and T. vittata (Wesmael, 1841) comb. nov. Ten species are newly recorded from China: Chrysopidia junbesiana Hölzel, 1973, C. nigrata Navás, 1910, C. ciliata (Wesmael, 1841), C. orientalis (Hölzel, 1973), Tumeochrysa inpunctata (Reuter, 1894), T. praeclara Hölzel, 1973, T. magnifica Hölzel, 1973, Retipenna burmana Brooks, 1986, R. variegata Brooks, 1986, and Semachrysa contorta Brooks, 1983. One species is transferred from Ankylopterygini to Chrysopini: Chrysopa yananica (Yang & Yang, 1989) comb. nov.
Serum free light chains in a racially diverse population including African Americans and populations from South Africa
Authors: Bertamini Luca , Alberge Jean-Baptiste , Lee David J. , El-Khoury Habib , Kim Sungjae , Fleming Grace , Murphy Ciara , Colchie Julia , Davis Maya I. , Perry Jacqueline , Lightbody Elizabeth D. , Allam Sabine , Goqwana Lindokuhle N. , Philip Vinitha , Smyth Natalie , Sakrikar Dhananjay , Perkins Mark , Harding Stephen , Troske Derek , Getz Gad , Karlson Elizabeth W. , Munshi Nikhil , Anderson Kenneth C. , Trippa Lorenzo , Marinac Catherine R. , Chen Wenlong C. , Joffe Maureen , Ghobrial Irene M.
Published: November 2024

Detection of light chain (LC) monoclonal gammopathies (MGs) traditionally relies on serum free LC (FLC) κ, λ, and their ratio (κ/λ) reference ranges based on a mostly White population. We investigated FLC values in a racially diverse population by screening 10 035 individuals for heavy chain MG, identifying 9028 negative cases whose FLC were measured. Participants included 4149 from the PROMISE study (United States, n = 2383; South Africa, n = 1766) and 4879 from the Mass General Brigham Biobank, with 44% self-identifying as Black. Using standard FLC reference ranges, 1074 of 10 035 individuals (10.7%) were diagnosed with LC monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), with 99% being κ-restricted. In the United States, 14.8% of Black and 4% of White individuals were diagnosed (P < .01). Among US participants of African (AFR) and European (EUR) genetic ancestry, 14.4% AFR and 2.9% EUR were diagnosed (P < .01). Among South Africans (100% Black), 27.8% were diagnosed using standard ranges. To avoid overdiagnosis, we propose a new κ/λ ratio reference range (0.686 to 2.10) for populations of AFR descent with normal renal function, with standard values for κ and λ being 7.97 to 77.50 mg/L and 6.20 to 49.20 mg/L, respectively. This reduces LC-MGUS overdiagnosis by 91% (10.7% vs 0.97%). Using the new reference, LC-MGUS accounts for 8.8% of MGUS cases, with 74% being κ-restricted, consistent with LC myeloma rates. These findings highlight the importance of basing disease definitions, such as MGUS, on diverse populations. Adopting our proposed FLC reference values would reduce MGUS overdiagnosis among Black individuals, avoiding unnecessary financial, psychological, and medical consequences. This study includes data from NCT03689595.
Itacitinib for Prevention of Graft-Versus-Host Disease and Cytokine Release Syndrome in Haploidentical Transplantation
Authors: Abboud Ramzi , Schroeder Mark A. , Rettig Michael P , Jayasinghe Reyka G , Gao Feng , Eisele Jeremy , Gehrs Leah , Ritchey Julie K. , Choi Jaebok , Abboud Camille N , Pusic Iskra , Jacoby Meagan A , Westervelt Peter , Christopher Matthew , Cashen Amanda F. , Ghobadi Armin , Stockerl-Goldstein Keith , Uy Geoffrey L , DiPersio John F.
Published: November 2024

Haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (haplo-HCT) is an increasingly used treatment for hematologic malignancies. Although post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PtCy) has improved graft vs. host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis in haplo-HCT, patients continue to experience life-threatening complications. IFN-γ and IL-6 are central in the pathophysiology of GvHD and cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and both cytokines signal through Janus kinase (JAK)-1. We tested the effect of adding the JAK-1 selective inhibitor, itacitinib, to PtCy-haplo-HCT to mitigate these complications and improve overall survival. This open-label, single-arm study evaluated the safety and efficacy of itacitinib combined with standard GvHD prophylaxis after haplo-HCT. A total of 42 patients were treated with itacitinib 200 mg daily from day -3 through +100 or +180, followed by a taper. Itacitinib resulted in low CRS grades, all patients had grade 0 (22%) or grade 1 (78%) CRS and there were no cases of grade 2-5 CRS. There were no cases of primary graft failure. No patients developed grade 3-4 aGvHD through day +180. The cumulative incidence of grade 2 aGvHD at day +100 was 21.9%. The 1-year cumulative incidence of moderate or severe chronic GvHD was 5%. The cumulative incidence of relapse at 2 years was 14%. Overall survival (OS) at 1 year was 80%. The cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality at day 180 was 8%. Itacitinib, when added to standard GvHD prophylaxis, was well tolerated and resulted in low rates of CRS, acute and chronic GvHD, NRM and encouraging rates of GvHD-free relapse-free survival (GRFS) and OS after haplo-HCT. NCT03755414
Lasalocid A selectively induces the degradation of MYD88 in lymphomas harboring the MYD88 L265P mutation
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Ruiui , Wang Junhao , Chai Dafei , Xie Xiaohui , Young Ken H. H. , Cao Ya , Li Yong , Yu Xinfang
Published: November 2024

Myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MYD88) is a key adaptor molecule in the signaling pathways of toll-like receptor (TLR) and interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R). A somatic mutation resulting in a leucine-to-proline change at position 265 of the MYD88 protein (MYD88 L265P) is one of the most prevalent oncogenic mutations found in patients with hematological malignancies. In this study, we employed high-throughput screening to identify lasalocid-A as a potent small molecule that selectively inhibited the viability of lymphoma cells expressing MYD88 L265P and the associated activation of NF-κB. Further investigations using CRISPR-Cas9 genetic screening, proteomics, and biochemical assays revealed that lasalocid-A directly binds to the MYD88 L265P protein, enhancing its interaction with the E3 ligase RNF5. This interaction promotes MYD88 degradation through the ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal pathway, specifically in lymphomas with the MYD88 L265P mutation. Lasalocid-A exhibited strong antitumor efficacy in xenograft mouse models, induced disease remission in ibrutinib-resistant lymphomas, and showed synergistic activity with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax. This study highlights the potential of inducing MYD88 L265P degradation using small molecules, offering promising strategies for treating lymphomas that harbor the MYD88 L265P mutation.
Exploring Smad5: a review to pave the way for a deeper understanding of the pathobiology of common respiratory diseases
Authors: Lin Zeqiang , Zhuang Jiayu , He Lixia , Zhu Siyuan , Kong Weiguo , Lu Wenju , Zhang Zili
Published: November 2024

Smad5 (small mothers against decapentaplegic 5) protein is a receptor-regulated member of the Smad family proteins, mainly participating in the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathway in its phosphorylated form. This article will provide a detailed review of Smad5, focusing on its gene characteristics, protein structure, and subcellular localization properties. We will also explore the related signaling pathways and the mechanisms of Smad5 in respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchial asthma, pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH), lung cancer, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Additionally, the review will cover aspects such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, anti-fibrosis, and mitochondrial function metabolism. In addition, the review will cover aspects of proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, anti-fibrosis and functional mitochondrial metabolism related to the above topics. Numerous studies suggest that Smad5 may play a unique and important role in the pathogenesis of respiratory system diseases. However, in previous research, Smad5 was mainly used to broadly determine the activation of the BMP signaling pathway, and its own function has not been given much attention. It is worth noting that Smad5 has distinct nuclear-cytoplasmic distribution characteristics different from Smad1 and Smad8. It can undergo significant nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling when intracellular pH (pHi) changes, playing important roles in both the classical BMP signaling pathway and non-BMP signaling pathways. Given that Smad5 can move intracellularly in response to changes in physicochemical properties, its cellular localization may play a crucial role in the development of respiratory diseases. This article will explore the possibility that its distribution characteristics may be an important factor that is easily overlooked and not adequately considered in disease research.
Outcomes of coronoid-first repair through an anterior approach in patients with terrible triad injury of the elbow: a prospective study with a minimum 2-year follow-up
Authors: Chang Wen-Chieh , Cheng Ming-Fai , Hsu Kuei-Hsiang , Su Yu-Ping
Published: November 2024

Background

In the treatment of terrible triad injury of the elbow (TTIE), the indication and the appropriate approach and sequence for coronoid process (CP) fixation remain debatable. No gold standard protocol has been established for CP fixation. In this study, we evaluated the midterm outcomes of coronoid-first repair through an anterior approach in patients with unstable TTIE.

Materials and methods

This prospective observational study included patients with TTIE who exhibited posterior or posterolateral subluxation/dislocation during examination under anesthesia (EUA) at our institute between January 2019 and December 2021. All patients underwent coronoid-first repair through an anterior approach, regardless of fragment size. After CP fixation, radial head fixation/replacement and lateral ulnar collateral ligament repair were performed through the lateral Kocher approach. Radiographic and functional (Mayo Elbow Performance Score [MEPS] and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score [DASH]) assessments were performed 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Complications such as recurrent subluxation/dislocation, synostosis, heterotopic ossification, traumatic arthritis, and stiffness were examined at the follow-up visits.

Results

The analysis included 27 patients. The mean follow-up duration was 29.9 (range 24–44) months. At the 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up, the mean flexion–extension arcs were 88.7° ± 14.7°, 107.9° ± 11.9°, 128.3° ± 15.5°, and 130.9° ± 15.3°; the mean supination–pronation arcs were 143.7° ± 9.9°, 160.4° ± 7.6°, 165.0° ± 6.0°, and 167.9° ± 4.9°; the mean DASH scores were 18.7 ± 5.7, 4.5 ± 6.1, 2.7 ± 6.5, and 2.0 ± 6.8; and the mean MEPS were 79.1 ± 10.3, 90.2 ± 8.3, 94.8 ± 6.6, and 95.9 ± 5.7, respectively. At the 24-month follow-up, 26 patients had excellent and 1 patient had good results according to MEPS. Only one patient had a complication: they exhibited stiffness and did not have a 30–130° flexion–extension arc at 24 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

The EUA findings, rather than fragment size alone, may be a good indicator of whether the CP needs to be repaired. Midterm follow-up results implied that coronoid-first repair through an anterior approach yields satisfactory functional outcomes with minimal complications.

Level of evidence: Therapeutic level II.
Palliative care of proximal femur metastatic disease and osteolytic lesions: results following surgical and radiation treatment
Authors: Mehnert Elisabeth , Möller Fränze Sophie , Hofbauer Christine , Weidlich Anne , Winkler Doreen , Troost Esther G. C. , Jentsch Christina , Kamin Konrad , Mäder Marcel , Schaser Klaus-Dieter , Fritzsche Hagen
Published: November 2024

Background

Femoral bone metastases (FBM) or lesions (FBL) can lead to loss of mobility and independence due to skeletal-related events (SRE), e.g. pain, deformity and pathological fractures. Aim of this study was to analyze effects of radiotherapy and surgery, different surgical techniques and complications on disease-specific survival (DSS).

Methods

Patients who underwent palliative therapy for FBM or FBL between 2014 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Chi-square test was used to detect intergroup differences. Survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier method, Cox regression and compared using log-rank test. Complications were evaluated using Chi-Square test.

Results

145 patients were treated for proximal femoral BM/BL or pathologic fractures (10 bilaterally). Three groups were classified: surgery only (S, n = 53), surgery with adjuvant radiation (S + RT, n = 58), and primary radiation only (RT, n = 44). Most common primary tumors were breast (n = 31), prostate (n = 27), and non-small cell lung cancer (n = 27). 47 patients underwent surgery for an impending, 61 for a manifest pathological fracture. There were no significant differences in DSS between the 3 groups (S = 29.8, S + RT = 32.2, RT = 27.1 months), with the S + RT group having the longest one-year survival. Local complications occurred in 25 of 145 patients after a mean interval of 9.9 months.

Conclusion

Due to the steadily increasing incidence and survival of patients with FBM/FBL, indication for prevention and treatment of painful and immobilizing SREs should be critically assessed. Surgical treatment should always be performed with maximum stability and, whenever possible, adjuvant RT.
Comorbid anxiety, loneliness, and chronic pain as predictors of intervention outcomes for subclinical depressive symptoms in older adults: evidence from a large community-based study in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Stephanie Ming Yin , Leung Dara Kiu Yi , Liu Tianyin , Ng Zuna Loong Yee , Wong Gloria Hoi Yan , Chan Wai Chi , Lum Terry Yat Sing
Published: November 2024

Background

Depression is among the leading causes of the global burden of disease and is associated with substantial morbidity in old age. The importance of providing timely intervention, particularly those with subclinical symptoms, has thus increasingly been emphasised. Despite their overall effectiveness, a small but notable subgroup tends to be less responsive to interventions. Identifying predictors of non-remission and non-response is critical to inform future strategies for optimising intervention outcomes.

Methods

A total of 4153 older adults aged 60 years and above with subclinical depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9] = 5–19) were recruited from JC JoyAge, a large-scale collaborative stepped-care intervention service across Hong Kong. A wide range of clinical and modifiable risk and protective factors at baseline were assessed, including depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, loneliness, suicidal ideation, cognitive capacity, multimorbidity, chronic pain, need for informal care due to mental health reasons, history of abuse, and sociodemographic characteristics. Separate multivariable logistic regression models were applied to identify predictors of non-remission (PHQ-9 ≥ 5) and non-response (< 50% reduction in PHQ-9) following intervention.

Results

The rates of non-remission and non-response were 18.9% (n = 784) and 23.0% (n = 956), respectively. Comorbid anxiety symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.08, CI = 1.72–2.51; 1.28, 1.05–1.57), loneliness (2.00, 1.66–2.42; 1.67, 1.38–2.01), need for informal care (1.86, 1.49–2.33; 1.48, 1.18–1.85), lower cognitive capacity (0.95, 0.93–0.97; 0.94, 0.92–0.96), and absence of chronic pain (0.59, 0.48–0.72; 0.76, 0.64–0.91) predicted both non-remission and non-response. Meanwhile, moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms predicted higher odds of non-remission (1.41, 1.18–1.69) and lower odds of non-response (0.28, 0.23–0.34), respectively. Subgroup analyses conducted separately in older adults with mild and moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms at baseline revealed that comorbid anxiety, loneliness, need for informal care, and absence of chronic pain were consistent predictors of non-remission. Those with non-remission and non-response showed more depression-related functional impairments and poorer health-related quality of life post-intervention.

Conclusions

Older adults with subclinical depressive symptoms showing comorbid anxiety, higher loneliness, need for informal care, and chronic pain may be offered more targeted interventions in future services. A personalised risk-stratification approach may be helpful.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT03593889 (registered 29 May 2018), NCT04863300 (registered 23 April 2021).
Factors influencing the decision of Nigerian optometry students to work in rural areas upon graduation: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Atuanya George Nnamdi , Bale Babatunde Ismail , Elebesunu Emmanuel Ebuka , Sow Alhaji Umar
Published: November 2024

Background

Access to eye care in rural Nigeria remains limited, as most optometrists work in urban areas. This study explores the factors influencing Nigerian optometry students’ decision to work in rural settings after graduation.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 400 optometry students from ten accredited Nigerian universities. The students were surveyed on their preferences regarding rural practice and the factors affecting their decisions.

Results

The majority of respondents (81.3%) were not inclined to establish their first optometric practice in rural areas, with poor living conditions (26.34%) being the most common deterrent. However, a significant proportion (52.8%) expressed willingness to consider establishing subsequent practices in rural areas. Motivation to help the community (56.6%) and the potential to enhance their optometric practice (74.6%) were key drivers for rural practice. Chi-square test revealed that participants’ year of study had a significant influence on their preference to practice in rural areas (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant connection between participants’ gender and place of origin, and their preference for rural practice (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

While many students, particularly from urban backgrounds, are reluctant to initiate practice in rural areas after graduation, primarily due to concerns over living conditions. In contrast, students from rural backgrounds show a higher likelihood of considering rural practice, especially within NGOs or the public sector. Hence, such factors should be considered by academic institutions and government bodies when designing policies to address workforce imbalances.
Variations in HBA gene contribute to high-altitude hypoxia adaptation via affected O2 transfer in Tibetan sheep
Authors: Zhao Pengfei , Ma Xiong , Ren Jianming , Zhang Lan , Min Yunxin , Li Chunyang , Lu Yaoyao , Ma Ying , Hou Mingjie , Jia Hui
Published: November 2024

Tibetan sheep are indigenous to the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. Owing to the harsh hypoxic environment in this plateau, the hemoglobin (Hb) protein in Tibetan sheep has undergone adaptive changes over time. Hb is primarily responsible for transporting O2 and CO2 between the lungs and other tissues of the body. The α subunit of Hb, encoded by the HBA gene, is a crucial component of the protein. However, whether variations in the HBA gene sequence affect the adaptation of Tibetan sheep to high-altitude hypoxia remains unclear. In this study, we sequenced the HBA gene and identified three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). These SNPs were genotyped in Tibetan and Hu sheep using Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP). The results showed that the frequencies of the AT genotype and H1H2 haplotype were higher in Tibetan sheep than in Hu sheep. Individuals with the AT genotype exhibited higher P50 levels, whereas those with the H1H2 haplotype exhibited lower PO2 and SaO2 levels. The higher P50 levels indicated that O2 was more readily released from oxygenated Hb into the tissues, with the lower PO2 and SaO2 levels facilitating this process. These findings indicate that variations in the HBA gene sequence contribute to enhancing O2 transfer efficiency in Tibetan sheep.