bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing global and regional public interest in home dialysis modalities from 2004 to 2024
Authors: Thongprayoon Charat , Wathanavasin Wannasit , Suppadungsuk Supawadee , Davis Paul W. , Miao Jing , Mao Michael A. , Craici Iasmina M. , Qureshi Fawad , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: November 2024

Background and objectives

Home dialysis (peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis) is an important renal replacement therapy modality option for patients with end-stage kidney disease. As the Internet has become a primary source for healthcare information, this study aimed to analyze the global and regional interests in home dialysis using Google Trends™ data from January 2004 to March 2024.

Design, setting, participants, and measurements

A comprehensive analysis was conducted using Google Trends™ with the search terms “Peritoneal Dialysis” and “Home Hemodialysis.” This study extracted worldwide trends and detailed regional interests within the United States. Interest levels were quantitatively assessed based on Google Trends™ indices, providing insights into temporal patterns and geographical distributions of public interest.

Results

The study found a fluctuating pattern of global interest in Peritoneal Dialysis, with peak interest in March 2022 and lowest interest in December 2008. The most recent data from March 2024 showed significant interest level of 94, indicating a new upward trend. Mexico exhibited the highest relative interest in Peritoneal Dialysis. Within the United States, Tennessee demonstrated the highest interest. For Home Hemodialysis, the peak interest was in July 2004. The most recent data from March 2024 showed a modest increase in interest. The United States led in highest relative interest for Home Hemodialysis, followed by Australia, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. Within the United States, Mississippi demonstrated the highest interest.

Conclusions

This study offers crucial insights into the global and regional landscape of interest in home dialysis modalities over time, highlighting the significance of leveraging online platforms to increase public awareness, education, and engagement home dialysis modalities. By understanding the temporal and geographical patterns of interest, healthcare providers, policymakers, and patient advocacy groups can develop targeted strategies to better promote the benefits of home dialysis, address knowledge gaps, and improve access to these life-sustaining treatments.
Evaluating the reliability and validity of a Chinese version of the performance-oriented mobility assessment among patients with chronic stroke
Authors: Zhong Ming , Jing Yongnan , Zhao Xiaofeng , Gao Ying , Jiang Yanju , Liu Yihao , Du Chunping
Published: November 2024

Background

The Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) is a reliable instrument for evaluating the mobility (balance and gait) of patients with chronic stroke to manage their risk of falling; however, it has not been validated among Chinese patients with stroke. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese POMA in patients with stroke.

Methods

The POMA was applied to volunteer patients with stroke from the Shanghai MCC Hospital. The patients underwent the Chinese POMA, Berg balance scale (BBS), and timed up and go (TUG) tests on the first day of inpatient treatment. The same physician repeated the tests the next day to assess test–retest reliability, and upon the patient’s discharge from the inpatient department, two different physicians measured inter-rater reliability.

Results

The study involved 76 patients with stroke (age: 62.04 ± 9.76 years; 34.2% female). The results showed that the Chinese POMA had good overall internal consistency (σ=. 875), with a moderate consistency between its two subscales (balance σ = 0.875; gait σ = 0.668). The individual items showed high test–retest (ICC = 0.997) and inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.988). The content validity test showed high correlations between the Chinese POMA, the BBS (rs = 0.70), and the TUG (rs = −0.75). However, the confirmatory factor analysis suggested that the two-factor model (balance and gait) was mediocre.

Conclusion

The Chinese POMA showed acceptable reliability and validity for evaluating mobility (balance and gait) in Chinese patients with stroke in terms of their risk of falling. However, further evaluation of the two-factor model (balance and gait) is required.
Social network structure modulates neural activities underlying group norm processing: evidence from event-related potentials
Authors: Han Mengfei , Han Ruoxuan , Liu Xin , Xie Duo , Lin Rong , Hao Yaokun , Ge Hanxiao , Hu Yiwen , Zhu Yuyang , Yang Liu
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Social ties play a crucial role in determining the health and wellbeing of individuals. However, it remains unclear whether the capacity to process social information distinguishes well-connected individuals from their less-connected peers. This study explored how an individual’s social network structure influences the dynamic processing of group norms, utilizing event-related potentials (ERPs).

Methods

The study involved 43 university students from the same class who participated in a social network study measuring metrics such as real-life social network size, in-degree, out-degree, and betweenness centrality. Subsequently, 27 students participated in an EEG study assessing their willingness to engage in various exercises after being exposed to peer feedback or in its absence.

Results

The results indicate that an individual’s social network structure is significantly associated with the dynamic processing of group norms. Notably, well-connected individuals exhibited larger ERP amplitudes linked to feedback (e.g., N200, P300, and LPP), greater functional segregation within the brain network (e.g., local efficiency and clustering coefficient), and enhanced synchronization within frontal area and across different brain areas.

Discussion

These findings highlight that well-connected individuals possess enhanced sensitivity and efficiency in processing social information, pointing to potential areas for further research on the factors influencing social network evolution.
Case report: The effect of induction targeted therapies in stage III driver mutants non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kian Waleed , Krayim Belal , Giles Betsy , Elkiaan Nasim A. , Idris Amjad , Fink Daniel , Peled Nir , Roisman Laila C.
Published: November 2024

Background

Over the past decade, progress in the diagnosis and treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) has led to the identification of many targeted mutations. This has enhanced PFS and OS in both advanced and early-stage NSCLC. The current standard of care for stage III NSCLC varies, and it may combine chemotherapy with either immunotherapy or radiotherapy. This study evaluated the role of induction targeted therapies in patients with driver mutations and inoperable NSCLC.

Methods

This is a single-center, retrospective study assessing the efficacy of targeted therapy in resectable stage III NSCLC patients who are EGFR or ALK-positive, using patient records, PET-CT, brain MRI staging, and mediastinal lymph node evaluation.

Results

Between January 2020 and February 2024, we identified four patients with either EML4-ALK fusions (2/4) or EGFR mutations (2/4) who underwent treatment with brigatinib or osimertinib before surgery. All patients experienced clinical benefits. Of the two patients with ALK fusion, one responded almost completely, while the other exhibited a notable partial response. Among the patients with EGFR mutations, one had a complete response and the other displayed a significant partial response. All four patients subsequently underwent lobectomy surgical resection.

Conclusions

This case series highlights the potential of targeted therapies for resectable NSCLC in the neoadjuvant setting. Further research is required to confirm their benefits, assess their safety and efficacy, and determine optimal timing and sequencing.
Current status of evaluation and treatment of early-stage remnant gastric cancer
Authors: Huang Yinghui , Ma Li , Ren Keyu , Gao Qun , Zhu Zhenming , Wang Guangrong , Cao Bin , He Baoguo
Published: November 2024

Because of early diagnosis and improved prognosis, patients with gastric cancer are now surviving longer and remnant gastric cancer after gastrectomy is becoming more common. Remnant gastric cancer is traditionally considered a malignancy with a dismal outcome. However, recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies have improved outcomes. In recent years, the development of endoscopic therapy has provided us with new therapeutic ideas. Although with some drawbacks, such as limited working space, gastric fibrosis and staples under the suture line, endoscopic management is still an effective treatment option with potential long-term survival advantage. For gastrectomy patients, endoscopic surveillance should also be recommended, for prompt surveillance and detection in the early remnant gastric cancer. This review aims to provide an overview of remnant gastric cancer, especially focusing on its pathogenesis as well as new advances in the diagnosis and endoscopic treatment of early-stage remnant gastric cancer.
Case Report: IVIG causing bilateral papilledema and increased intracranial hypertension in patients with anti-TIF-1γ antibody-positive JDM
Authors: Baluta Sarah , Stojkic Ivana , Driest Kyla , Schutt Christina
Published: November 2024

Juvenile dermatomyositis is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive proximal muscle weakness, pathognomonic rashes, and often the presence of myositis-specific antibodies. Consensus treatment plans for pediatric patients with juvenile dermatomyositis recommend steroids and methotrexate as initial therapy. Patients with anti-transcription intermediary factor 1 gamma (anti-TIF-1γ) antibodies tend to have more refractory disease requiring more aggressive treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, which is typically well tolerated. We describe two pediatric patients diagnosed with anti-TIF-1γ antibody-positive juvenile dermatomyositis who developed persistent increased intracranial pressure following intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. These cases suggest a potential association between treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and increased intracranial pressure, a side effect that is not readily known. The shared anti-TIF-1γ positivity in both patients may suggest a possible concern for intracranial hypertension among juvenile dermatomyositis patients with this myositis-specific antibody.
Glucocorticoids influence on rat hematological parameters and catalase activity
Authors: Herenda Safija , Carev Ivana , Haskovic Denis , Prevljak Sabina , Causevic Sara , Haskovic Edhem
Published: November 2024

In this study, the impact of glucocorticoid, betamethasone dipropionate on enzyme activity in vitro and its effects on hematological parameters in vivo was investigated. The immobilized catalase, crucial for cell oxidative stress response via hydrogen peroxide reduction, exhibited a robust electrocatalytic response, maintaining its biological activity. The in vitro inhibition kinetics of catalase, as determined by electrocatalytic methods and expressed using Lineweaver-Burke diagrams, revealed an uncompetitive type of inhibition with altered Imax and Km in the presence of a range of betamethasone dipropionate concentrations. The in vivo experiments conducted on Rattus norvegicus demonstrated significant alterations in hematological parameters following betamethasone dipropionate administration. These changes included a decrease in erythrocyte count, an increase in hemoglobin, a reduction in mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and an elevation in mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). Notably, the leukocyte counts substantially increased. The observed hematological shifts suggest an impact of betamethasone dipropionate on the hematopoietic system, reinforcing the need for cautious corticosteroid administration. The findings underline the necessity for judicious corticosteroid treatment, acknowledging both enzymatic and systemic repercussions.
Renal microangiopathy induced by lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Xue Cheng , Cui Linlin , Chen Jiaxin , Liu Yang , Deng Yufei , Xu Wenyi , Mao Zhiguo , Wu Jun
Published: November 2024

Lenvatinib, a multi-target inhibitor of receptor tyrosine kinases, has been increasingly used in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its association with renal adverse effects, including proteinuria and renal microvascular complications, was not fully understood in HCC patients. We reported a case of a 68-year-old male with a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, diagnosed with primary HCC in 2015. Despite previous treatments, he was started on lenvatinib due to tumor recurrence. Initially, he had mild proteinuria, which significantly worsened post-lenvatinib initiation, accompanied by fluctuating renal function and severe edema. The diagnosis of lenvatinib-induced renal microvascular damage was confirmed through renal biopsy, which showed glomerular sclerosis, tubulointerstitial changes, and arteriolosclerosis. Discontinuation of lenvatinib led to significant improvements in proteinuria and edema. Subsequent cancer recurrence was managed with microwave ablation and immunotherapy, with satisfactory recovery. The potential for lenvatinib to induce significant renal microvascular disease, as demonstrated in this case, emphasizes the importance of vigilant renal monitoring and personalized therapeutic strategies in patients treated with lenvatinib for HCC. Early intervention and dose adjustment may be crucial in preventing severe renal impairment, highlighting the significance of tailored treatment plans in the management of advanced HCC patients especially with pre-existing risk factors.
In-depth analysis of lupeol: delving into the diverse pharmacological profile
Authors: Dalimunthe Aminah , Carensia Gunawan Mega , Dhiya Utari Zahirah , Dinata Muhammad Riza , Halim Princella , Estherina S. Pakpahan Nathasya , Sitohang Alex Insandus , Sukarno M. Andriansyah , Yuandani  , Harahap Yahdiana , Setyowati Erna Prawita , Park Moon Nyeo , Yusoff Syaratul Dalina , Zainalabidin Satirah , Prananda Arya Tjipta , Mahadi Mohd Kaisan , Kim Bonglee , Harahap Urip , Syahputra Rony Abdi
Published: November 2024

Lupeol, a naturally occurring lupane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid, is widely distributed in various edible vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants. Notably, it is found in high concentrations in plants like Tamarindus indica, Allanblackia monticola, and Emblica officinalis, among others. Quantitative studies have highlighted its presence in Elm bark, Olive fruit, Aloe leaf, Ginseng oil, Mango pulp, and Japanese Pear bark. This compound is synthesized from squalene through the mevalonate pathway and can also be synthetically produced in the lab, addressing challenges in natural product synthesis. Over the past four decades, extensive research has demonstrated lupeol’s multifaceted pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial effects. Despite its significant therapeutic potential, clinical applications of lupeol have been limited by its poor water solubility and bioavailability. Recent advancements have focused on nano-based delivery systems to enhance its bioavailability, and the development of various lupeol derivatives has further amplified its bioactivity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in understanding the pharmacological benefits of lupeol. It also discusses innovative strategies to improve its bioavailability, thereby enhancing its clinical efficacy. The aim is to consolidate current knowledge and stimulate further research into the therapeutic potential of lupeol and its derivatives.
Inhibition of Sat1 alleviates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury through regulation of ferroptosis via MAPK/ERK pathway
Authors: Liu Zhou , Chen Hongjin , Song Yingnan , Chen Kaiyuan , Pan Sisi , Yang Siyuan , Lu Deqin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a prevalent complication in patients with myocardial infarction. The pathological mechanism of MIRI remains elusive. Ferroptosis plays a critical role in MIRI. This study aimed to investigate the role of spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1 (Sat1) in MIRI by regulation of ferroptosis.

Methods

Rats and H9C2 cells were used to perform MIRI model. The extent of myocardial damage and associated pathological changes were evaluated. Protein expression was detected by western blot. Then we observed the mitochondrial morphology and measured cell viability and damage. The levels of lipid peroxide and glutathione were measured, and lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) was quantified. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in MIRI were analyzed. Moreover, to explore the role of Sat1 in MIRI, this study utilized adeno-associated virus 9 and lentiviral transduction to modulate Sat1 expression in rats and H9C2 cells, respectively. The transcription factor that regulates Sat1 expression was predicated. Luciferase reporter gene experiment was conducted to reveal the potential sites of Sox2 binding to Sat1.

Results

This study revealed that ferroptosis was involved in MIRI. Through bioinformatic analysis, Sat1 was identified as a significant gene in MIRI, which has been reported as an inducer of ferroptosis. Our results showed that Sat1 expression was significantly increased in MIRI. Next, the study showed that inhibition of Sat1 alleviated MIRI by suppressing ferroptosis in vivo and in vitro, and over-expression of Sat1 promoted MIRI via activation of ferroptosis. Furthermore, Sat1 and its interacting genes were enriched in several signaling pathways, including ferroptosis and the MAPK signaling pathway. The results showed that Sat1 regulated MIRI through ferroptosis via MAPK/ERK pathway. Moreover, it is found that Sox2 can suppress Sat1 expression at the transcriptional level. The potential binding site was TAACAAAGGAA.

Conclusion

In sum, this study demonstrated Sat1 expression was increased in MIRI, inhibition of Sat1 can alleviate MIRI by regulating ferroptosis via MAPK/ERK pathway, and Sat1 was negatively regulated by Sox2. These findings suggested that Sat1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of MIRI.
Evaluation of cerebral perfusion heterogeneity by the electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Zhu Mingxu , Wang Yu , Li Junyao , Wang Weice , Gao Guobin , Ji Zhenyu , Liu Benyuan , Wang Lei , Li Weichen , Shi Xuetao
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of global inhomogeneity index (GI) and left-right asymmetry index (AI) based on electrical impedance tomography (EIT) to be used in assessing cerebral perfusion heterogeneity. The diagnostic value of these two indices in identifying abnormalities in the degree of cerebral perfusion heterogeneity was also explored.

Methods

In this study, Transcranial Doppler (TCD) was used as a control, and unilateral carotid artery was compressed to change the degree of heterogeneity of cerebral perfusion in 15 healthy volunteers. The control group consisted of an additional 15 volunteers without any intervention. EIT perfusion images were obtained by calculating the impedance difference between at the beginning and end of cerebral vasodilation. Subsequently, GI and AI were calculated based on the pixel values of intracranial regions.

Results

The GI and AI values in the non-carotid artery compression (NCAC) group were significantly lower than those in the unilateral carotid artery compression (UCAC) group (P < 0.001), whereas there was no significant difference between the left carotid artery compression (LCAC) and right carotid artery compression (RCAC) groups. ROC analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC), specificity and sensitivity of GI in distinguishing between NCAC and UCAC were 0.94, 0.90 and 0.87, respectively. The AUC, specificity and sensitivity of AI in distinguishing between NCAC and UCAC were 0.86, 0.87 and 0.73, respectively.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that the GI and AI effectively quantify the distribution of intracranial perfusion, demonstrating excellent validity and interindividual comparability, and the ability to detect abnormal cerebral perfusion heterogeneity.
Association between nutritional status, injury severity, and physiological responses in trauma patients
Authors: Niu Linguo , Zhang Yongning , Dai Weihong , Wang Rixing
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the predictive value of the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score and Injury Severity Score (ISS) in assessing physiological abnormalities and outcomes in trauma patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 354 trauma patients. Physiological parameters were assessed, including cardiovascular function, inflammatory response, liver and kidney function, and nutritional status. The CONUT score and ISS were calculated for each patient. Binary logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of trauma severity. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis evaluated the predictive accuracy of the CONUT and ISS scores for adverse outcomes.

Results

Severely injured patients exhibited more significant abnormalities in cardiovascular function, inflammatory response, liver and kidney function, and nutritional status compared to those with minor injuries. These patients had significantly higher CONUT scores. Logistic regression analysis identified white blood cell count, hemoglobin, and CONUT score as independent predictors of trauma severity. ROC analysis showed that both CONUT and ISS scores effectively predicted adverse outcomes, with ISS demonstrating better specificity.

Conclusion

The CONUT and ISS scores are effective tools for predicting physiological abnormalities and adverse outcomes in trauma patients. Incorporating these scores into clinical practice may enhance prognostic assessments and improve management strategies for trauma patients.
Effects of 5-ion 6-beam sequential irradiation in the presence and absence of hindlimb or control hindlimb unloading on behavioral performances and plasma metabolic pathways of Fischer 344 rats
Authors: Raber Jacob , Chaudhari Mitali , De la Torre Alexis , Holden Sarah , Kessler Kat , Glaeser Breanna , Lenarczyk Marek , Leonard Scott Willem , Borg Alexander , Kwok Andy , Patel Chirayu , Kronenberg Amy , Olsen Christopher M. , Willey Jeffrey S. , Morré Jeffrey , Choi Jaewoo , Stevens Jan Frederik , Bobe Gerd , Minnier Jessica , Baker John
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Effects and interactions between different spaceflight stressors are expected to be experienced by crew on missions when exposed to microgravity and galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). One of the limitations of previous studies on simulated weightlessness using hindlimb unloading (HU) is that a control HU condition was not included.

Methods

We characterized the behavioral performance of male Fischer rats 2 months after sham or total body irradiation with a simplified 5-ion 6-mixed-beam exposure representative of GCRs in the absence or presence of HU. Six months later, the plasma, hippocampus, and cortex were processed to determine whether the behavioral effects were associated with long-term alterations in the metabolic pathways.

Results

In the open field without and with objects, interactions were observed for radiation × HU. In the plasma of animals that were not under the HU or control HU condition, the riboflavin metabolic pathway was affected most for sham irradiation vs. 0.75 Gy exposure. Analysis of the effects of control HU on plasma in the sham-irradiated animals showed that the alanine, aspartate, glutamate, riboflavin, and glutamine metabolisms as well as arginine biosynthesis were affected. The effects of control HU on the hippocampus in the sham-irradiated animals showed that the phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan pathway was affected the most. Analysis of effects of 0.75 Gy irradiation on the cortex of control HU animals showed that the glutamine and glutamate metabolic pathway was affected similar to the hippocampus, while the riboflavin pathway was affected in animals that were not under the control HU condition. The effects of control HU on the cortex in sham-irradiated animals showed that the riboflavin metabolic pathway was affected. Animals receiving 0.75 Gy of irradiation showed impaired glutamine and glutamate metabolic pathway, whereas animals receiving 1.5 Gy of irradiation showed impaired riboflavin metabolic pathways. A total of 21 plasma metabolites were correlated with the behavioral measures, indicating that plasma and brain biomarkers associated with behavioral performance are dependent on the environmental conditions experienced.

Discussion

Phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan metabolism as well as phenylalanine and tryptophan as plasma metabolites are biomarkers that can be considered for spaceflight as they were revealed in both Fischer and WAG/Rij rats exposed to simGCRsim and/or HU.
The risks of unconcern: low sensitivity to threat can have unfortunate consequences
Authors: Ristvedt Stephen L.
Published: November 2024

Each one of us is confronted with warnings of danger or threats to wellbeing in our everyday life, whether in the form of certain road signs, Public Service Announcements, ominous changes in bodily functioning, or cautionary tales heard from family or friends. There is great inter-individual variation in how people respond to such threats, with some people habitually tending to ignore or dismiss them, often to their peril. The first purpose of the present paper is to review several studies showing that individuals—most often men—who score very low on measures of trait anxiety are more likely to engage in behaviors that could jeopardize their physical wellbeing. The general hypothesis that is derived from that review is that when attention to everyday threats is chronically muted by way of a dispositional trait, the likelihood of proceeding down some dangerous path is increased. Those findings are then discussed within the broader context of personality theory to highlight the importance of recognizing the bipolarity of common traits. Here the case is made for replacing the term trait anxiety with the term threat sensitivity in order to capture the full breadth of this basic personality variable. A discussion of the neurobiological underpinnings of threat sensitivity is then presented with an emphasis on individual and sex differences in the workings of the defensive survival circuitry. Taken together, this paper has implications for two subfields within psychology. For the area of personality theory, this paper provides support for the adaptationist view with the argument that low threat sensitivity has both adaptive and maladaptive potential. For the area of health psychology, it is argued that some individuals who demonstrate a habitual tendency to neglect their physical wellbeing may be acting—at least in part—in accordance with their innate neurobiological constitution.
Agential realism as an alternative philosophy of science perspective for quantitative psychology
Authors: Scholz Julia
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces Karen Barad’s philosophical framework of agential realism as an alternative philosophy of science perspective for quantitative psychology and measurement. Agential realism offers a rethinking of the research object, measurement process and outcome, causality, and the researcher’s responsibility by proposing an ethico-epistem-ontological understanding of material-discursive practices that co-construct our world. The contemporary, canonical underlying philosophy of science perspective of quantitative psychology entails entity realism, a difference between ontic existence and epistemic approaches, complete causality, and determinism. Consequently, the researcher has no responsibility for the characteristics of a research object. The paper introduces agential realism and its assumptions about rejecting entity realism but a particular understanding of phenomena, the entanglement of ontic existence and epistemic approaches, and the researcher’s role in co-creating an outcome. A reworking of the concept of causality implies newly emerging possibilities for realizations. Subsequently, the paper addresses four consequences of applying agential realism in quantitative psychology. (1) If there is indeterminacy in every phenomenon, researchers do not search for one true score but assume a realization potential, which has implications for comparisons and replications. (2) If configurations are part of things-in-phenomena, then context does not work as a third variable; instead, all ‘parts’ are co-creators. This entanglement must be considered in replications instead of trying to eliminate its impact. (3) Agential realism encompasses the researchers’ responsibility to justify decisions made in a research project and to clarify ethics. (4) Overall, agential realism alters the research endeavor by asking new questions and interpreting research outcomes differently. Further directions point towards concrete tasks like methodological questions and the necessity within psychology to elaborate further on the conceptualizations initiated by Barad.
Pre- and post-COVID 19 outbreak relationship between physical activity and depressive symptoms in Spanish adults with major depressive disorder: a secondary analysis of the RADAR-MDD cohort study
Authors: Ibáñez Delia , Condominas Elena , Haro Josep Maria , Vázquez Iago Giné , RADAR-MDD-Spain  , Bailón Raquel , Garcia Esther , Kontaxis Spyridon , Peñarrubia-Maria Maria Teresa , Arranz Belen , Llaosa-Scholten Raúl , Gardeñes Lluisa , Hotopf Matthew , Matcham Faith , Lamers Femke , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Annas Peter , Folarin Amos , Narayan Vaibhav , Lima Rodrigo Antunes , Siddi Sara ,   the RADAR CNS consortium
Published: November 2024

Aim

To evaluate the longitudinal association of sedentary behavior, light and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) participation with depressive symptoms and whether their possible association changed depending on the pandemic phase.

Methods

This longitudinal study conducted secondary analysis from the Spanish cohort of the Remote Assessment of Disease and Relapse – Major Depressive Disorder (RADAR-MDD) study. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8). Sedentary behavior and physical activity were estimated via wrist-worn devices. Linear mixed models evaluated the longitudinal associations of sedentary behavior and physical activity (light and moderate-to-vigorous intensities) with depressive symptoms.

Results

In total, 95 participants (67.5% women, 53.0 [±10.5] years of age on average) were monitored pre-COVID-19 and included in the analyses. Pre-COVID-19, 73.7% of participants presented depression, and, on average, participated in 13.2 (±1.08) hours/day of sedentary behavior, 2.42 (±0.90) hours/day of light physical activity and 23.6 (±19.80) minutes/day of MVPA. Considering all the observations (from November 2019 to October 2020), an additional hour/day of sedentary behavior was longitudinally associated with higher depressive symptoms [βstd = 0.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.10 to 0.47], whereas an additional hour/day in light physical activity was associated with lower depressive symptoms (βstd = −0.06, 95% CI −0.59 to −0.15). Time in MVPA was not associated with depressive symptomatology. The association of sedentary behavior and light physical activity with depressive symptoms was significant only during pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 relaxation periods, whereas during the strictest periods of the pandemic with regards to the restrictions (lockdown and de-escalation), the association was not observed.

Conclusion

Sedentary behavior and light physical activity were longitudinally associated with depressive symptoms in participants with a history of MDD. The incorporation of light physical activity should be stimulated in adults with a history of MDD. Neither sedentary behavior nor light physical activity were associated with depressive symptoms during the most restrictive COVID-19 phases, whereas sedentary behavior (positively) and light physical activity (negatively) were associated with depressive symptoms in persons with MDD before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prevalence and risk factors of knee osteoarthritis: a cross-sectional survey in Nanjing, China
Authors: Shao Wenjuan , Hou Huisheng , Han Qi , Cai Keshu
Published: November 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) presents a significant public health challenge due to its hazards and increasingly severe trends. Addressing this challenge requires targeted investigation into the prevalence and identification of risk factors for KOA across different regions, especially in populous and vast China. Therefore, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Nanjing, China, with the aim of investigating the prevalence and risk factors of KOA among individuals aged 50 and above.

Method

A total of 1,045 subjects were selected using the stratified random sampling method and diagnosed with KOA based on the diagnostic criteria established by the Chinese Medical Association. Data on 14 potential risk factors were collected through a self-designed questionnaire and standardized on-site tests. The association between KOA and these risk factors was explored using t-tests, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of KOA among the subjects was 23.64%. Multiple logistic regression models indicated that the risk of KOA was significantly higher among women (OR: 5.34, 95% CI: 3.13–9.11), subjects aged 60–69 (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.25–2.69) and over 70 (OR: 2.87, 95% CI: 1.80–4.59), individuals with high school education and above (OR:2.22, 95% CI: 1.37–3.60), those with flatfoot (OR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.10–2.74), and subjects classified as overweight (OR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.21–3.04) and obese (OR: 4.63, 95% CI: 2.18–9.85) based on their BMI status. Additionally, the models identified weight (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.08), 30-s chair stand performance (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.91–0.97), and single-leg stand performance (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93–0.99) as independent risk factors for KOA.

Conclusion

The prevalence of KOA is remarkable in Nanjing city. The risk factors for KOA include women, older age, higher education, flatfoot, increased weight and BMI, as well as poor performance in 30-s chair stand and single-leg stand tests.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of trifluridine/tipiracil combined with bevacizumab vs. monotherapy for third-line treatment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Huang Long-Zhuan , Chen Ya-Qing , Gu Hang-Ye , Chen Yong
Published: November 2024

Background

The combination of trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) and bevacizumab has demonstrated promising efficacy and safety in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of trifluridine/tipiracil combined with bevacizumab vs. trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy as a third-line treatment regimen for colorectal cancer within the Chinese healthcare system, providing an economic basis for clinical application.

Methods

Based on data from the SUNLIGHT Phase III clinical trial, a dynamic Markov model was constructed with a cycle length of 4 weeks and a simulation duration of 10 years. Direct medical costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were calculated. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was compared with the willingness-to-pay threshold (WTP = ¥268,200.00/QALY) to assess the economic viability of the treatment regimen. One-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were conducted to verify the robustness of the model results.

Results

The cost of trifluridine/tipiracil combined with bevacizumab treatment (¥838,492.74) was higher than that of trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy (¥357,396.97), with greater health benefits (2.45 QALYs vs. 1.54 QALYs). The ICER was ¥527,577.36/QALY, exceeding the willingness-to-pay threshold. One-way sensitivity analysis indicated that drug costs and utility values during the progression-free period significantly impacted model outputs. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis further confirmed the robustness of the results, showing that at a willingness-to-pay threshold of ¥494,000.00, the probability of the combined treatment being cost-effective was 50%.

Conclusion

Trifluridine/tipiracil combined with bevacizumab, as a third-line treatment for colorectal cancer, does not have a cost-effectiveness advantage compared to trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy in economic evaluations.
Effects of emotional intelligence on physical activity engagement and the mediating roles of achievement motivation and interpersonal relationship in Chinese undergraduate students
Authors: Yu Chengfeng , Xue Aochuan , Zeng Zhaohong , Wu Qianjin
Published: November 2024

Background

Engaging in physical activity has been demonstrated to enhance cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, bone health, and cardiometabolic health. However, it is concerning that more than 80% of students globally do not meet the recommended standard of at least 1 h of physical activity per day. It is imperative to enhance student involvement in physical activities.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the effect of emotional intelligence (EI) on undergraduate students’ physical activity engagement (PAE), to elucidate the mediating role of achievement motivation (AM) and interpersonal relationships (IR).

Methods

A stratified whole-sample was used to survey 810 university students (19.84 ± 1.40 years). The scale items were designed to assess the participants’ EI, PAE, AM, and IR based on the correlation scale. SPSS and AMOS were used to analyze the mediating effect.

Results and conclusion

The results demonstrated a positive effect of EI on AM and PAE (β = 0.29, p < 0.001; β = 0.28, p < 0.001). Furthermore, AM was found to have a positive effect on PAE (β = 0.07, p < 0.05). Notably, AM mediated between EI and PAE. In conclusion, our findings provide further insight into the effect of EI on undergraduate students’ PAE, and reveal the mediating role of AM.
The role of anti-aging approaches in managing hypogonadism in sedentary older males
Authors: Abdel-Sater Khaled A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

With thirty percent of the world’s population not getting enough exercise, Worldwide, physical inactivity ranks as one of the most common causes of premature mortality. Rapid drops in physical activity, decreased mobility, and early morbidity are aging characteristics. As the population over 80 continues to rise, aging raises the danger of age-related illnesses and changes in hormone release.

Aim

Understanding the aging process is useful in developing pharmacological therapies and identifying therapeutic targets for age-related testosterone deficiency. Therefore, this study’s purpose is to present a thorough evaluation of the effects of anti-aging strategies on testosterone levels in older, inactive men.

Methods

A literature search was completed for clinical and preclinical studies published in English between 2014 and 2024 related to age, sedentary life, testosterone, and anti-aging strategies.

Results

A sedentary lifestyle and low testosterone are linked to a vicious cycle. A sedentary lifestyle lowers testosterone levels, which leads to depression, exhaustion, low energy, and weakened bone and muscle strength. These effects exacerbate the detrimental consequences of aging and physical inactivity. Anti-aging techniques can prevent and treat age-related diseases, including calorie restriction, a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight control, diabetes management, and quitting smoking. Regular exercise raises total testosterone, free testosterone, and muscle steroidogenesis. In older men, testosterone replacement treatment increases bone density, cholesterol, protein synthesis, strength, erectile function, sexual desire, and general cognitive performance. However, some studies suggest dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation may provide health improvements without negative effects, potentially reversing arterial aging and reducing cardiovascular disease risk.

Conclusion

This article evaluates the prospects for anti-aging procedures to assist in reducing the adverse effects of aging and physical inactivity in men.
A review on deep learning methods for heart sound signal analysis
Authors: Partovi Elaheh , Babic Ankica , Gharehbaghi Arash
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Application of Deep Learning (DL) methods is being increasingly appreciated by researchers from the biomedical engineering domain in which heart sound analysis is an important topic of study. Diversity in methodology, results, and complexity causes uncertainties in obtaining a realistic picture of the methodological performance from the reported methods.

Methods

This survey paper provides the results of a broad retrospective study on the recent advances in heart sound analysis using DL methods. Representation of the results is performed according to both methodological and applicative taxonomies. The study method covers a wide span of related keywords using well-known search engines. Implementation of the observed methods along with the related results is pervasively represented and compared.

Results and discussion

It is observed that convolutional neural networks and recurrent neural networks are the most commonly used ones for discriminating abnormal heart sounds and localization of heart sounds with 67.97% and 33.33% of the related papers, respectively. The convolutional neural network and the autoencoder network show a perfect accuracy of 100% in the case studies on the classification of abnormal from normal heart sounds. Nevertheless, this superiority against other methods with lower accuracy is not conclusive due to the inconsistency in evaluation.
Adverse childhood experiences, subsequent negative life events, and their impact on health in occupational rehabilitation patients: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Eftedal Monica , Johansen Thomas , Del Risco Kollerud Ruby
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are prevalent globally and can negatively impact an individual's lifespan by not only increasing the likelihood of encountering other negative life events (NLEs), but also escalating the risk of illness, absenteeism due to sickness, unemployment, and reliance on disability benefits in adulthood. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the prevalence of ACEs and NLEs, as well as their health impacts among patients undergoing occupational rehabilitation.

Materials and methods

A total of 80 participants diagnosed with musculoskeletal disorders and/or common mental disorders who participated in two occupational rehabilitation programs in Norway were included. Data were collected by questionnaire and in-depth interviews (39 participants) at the start of the intervention. Comparative quantitative and qualitative analysis was conducted between individuals with a history of ACEs and those without these experiences. Thematic analysis was used to identify the impact of ACEs and NLEs on the health of the informants.

Results

Half of the participants reported ACEs. Of these, 18% reported one ACE, 22% reported 2–3 ACEs and 9% reported 4 or more ACEs. Also, 25% were categorized as revictimized. The two groups with ACEs had more NLEs in adulthood compared to those without ACEs (p < 0.001), revictimized the most (mean numbers between groups 3.1, 4.5 and 5.9). Furthermore, a history of ACEs was associated with a higher number of reported mental health issues compared to those who had not experienced ACEs (p < 0.01). However, there were no significant differences between the two ACE groups. NLEs had a substantial impact on the participants’ current health status, whether they occurred in childhood or adulthood. In adult life, a high workload (psychologically or physically), interpersonal challenges, and financial struggles had an especially negative impact. Additionally, accidents and complications related to surgeries were also significant NLEs causing health problems. For most, there were complex interactions between NLEs and health.

Conclusions

The prevalence of ACEs and NLEs is high among occupational rehabilitation patients. ACEs are associated with subsequent victimization, interpersonal challenges, financial struggles, and increased mental health issues in adulthood. These findings highlight the need for systematic screening and a holistic, individualized approach in occupational rehabilitation programs to potentially mitigate the adverse effects of NLEs on health and work participation.
Case report: VEXAS syndrome and literature review
Authors: Jones Can , Ivanov Stanislav , Ferraro Pablo , Younes Souhad , Fernandez Hugo
Published: November 2024

VEXAS syndrome (Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) is a novel disorder first described in 2020. Patients are diagnosed by identifying a somatic mutation of the ubiquitin-like modifier-activating enzyme 1 (UBA1) gene. They usually have systemic inflammation and present with a combination of hematologic and rheumatologic abnormalities such as myelodysplastic syndrome and polychondritis. VEXAS syndrome patients are at increased risk of developing hematologic malignancies. We present a case of a 60-year-old male who developed transfusion-dependent macrocytic anemia, was found to have UBA1 mutation in the bone marrow, and was diagnosed with VEXAS syndrome. The patient responded well to steroid treatment and did not require more blood transfusion. The two main goals of treating VEXAS syndrome are eradicating the UBA1 mutated hematopoietic cells and inhibiting the inflammatory process. Early stem cell transplant evaluation is necessary as VEXAS-related complications may limit the efficacy of transplantation. Further research is required to improve the prognosis and quality of life of VEXAS syndrome patients.