bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teachers’ in-class use of nominal address forms with their students
Authors: Rehner Katherine , Mougeon Raymond , Mougeon Françoise
Published: August 2024

This study examines variation in the address forms teachers use in class with their students. It draws on a corpus collected in French-medium secondary schools in Ontario, Canada. The study provides a taxonomy of the nominal address forms used, along with frequency counts and dispersion rates. This includes forms used to address: i) the entire class (e.g., tout le monde ‘everyone’, guys, and les élèves ‘students’); ii) a group of students (e.g., ceux-celles/les gens, etc. + qui ‘those/the people, etc. + who’, les filles ‘girls’, and les gars ‘boys’); and iii) individual students (e.g., first names, first and last names, Monsieur ‘Sir’, Madame ‘Ma’am’, Mademoiselle ‘Miss’, ma belle ‘my dear’, mon grand ‘big guy’). The study examines the discursive functions associated with these address forms (e.g., positive relational functions like ‘praising’ and ‘encouraging’ are associated with terms of affection). The study concludes by highlighting the contribution its findings make to Francols’ (2010) calls for further research on the topic.
S'il y a du monde qui vient fumer ils vont dehors : l'accord verbal de nombre avec les collectifs singuliers à Welland (Ontario) entre 1975 et 2015
Authors: Mougeon Francoise , Mougeon Raymond , Rehner Katherine
Published: August 2024

Notre étude porte sur l’accord verbal de nombre avec le sujet lorsque celui-ci réfère à des groupes humains désignés par des noms morphologiquement singuliers mais sémantiquement pluriels (i.e., noms collectifs). Elle examine la variation entre l’accord au singulier, conforme à l’usage standard, ou au pluriel, typique de l’usage vernaculaire. Notre recherche s’appuie sur des données d’entrevues recueillies au sein de la minorité francophone de Welland (Ontario), d’abord en 1975 et quarante ans plus tard. Nous mesurons la variation dans le temps ainsi que l’impact de facteurs linguistiques et extralinguistiques tels que : i) le type de nom collectif (le monde, du monde, tout le monde, famille, parenté, nom d’entreprise ou compagnie); ii) l’absence/présence de quantificateur devant le collectif; iii) l’appartenance socioéconomique, le sexe et le niveau de bilinguisme des locuteurs. Notre étude comble une lacune car, excepté la recherche de Tristram (2017), les travaux sur l’accord verbal de nombre avec les sujets collectifs n’ont pas examiné cet aspect du français selon une perspective sociolinguistique variationniste.
Deux nouvelles
Authors: Thomas Alain
Published: August 2024

Ces deux nouvelles publiées à titre posthume témoignent de l'intérêt d'Alain Thomas pour le vécu des Français pendant la Seconde Guerre mondiale. Dans "Sursis", un aimable facteur partage son appréciation d'être en vie à la suite des traumatismes endurés et "Les Pieds vers la France" relate, du point de vue de Daniel Thomas, le père de l’auteur, son évasion d'un camp de prisonniers de guerre allemand.
Formin-like 1 β phosphorylation at S1086 is necessary for secretory polarized traffic of exosomes at the immune synapse in Jurkat T lymphocytes
Authors: Fernández-Hermira Sara , Sanz-Fernández Irene , Barbeito Pablo , Navarro-Zapata Alfonso , Pérez-Martínez Antonio , Garcia-Gonzalo Francesc R. , Calvo Víctor , Izquierdo Manuel , Ruiz-Navarro Javier
Published: August 2024

T-cell receptor stimulation (TCR) by antigen bound to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) on an antigen-presenting cell (APC) induces protein kinase C (PKC) activation and the formation of the immune synapse (IS), followed by depletion of filamentous actin (F-actin) at the central region of the IS (cIS) and the polarization of multivesicular bodies (MVB) and the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) to the IS. These events lead to polarized exosome secretion at the IS. These exosomes are involved in several crucial immune responses such as autocrine activation-induced cell death (AICD) of T lymphocytes and cytotoxicity. We analysed here how formin-like 1 beta (FMNL1beta), an actin cytoskeleton-regulatory protein, regulates MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion at an IS model in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. IS formation was associated with transient recruitment of FMNL1beta to the IS, which was independent of protein kinase C delta (PKCdelta). Simultaneous RNA interference of all FMNL1 isoforms prevented MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion, which were restored by FMNL1betaWT expression. However, expression of the non-phosphorylatable mutant FMNL1βS1086A did not restore neither MTOC/MVB polarization nor exosome secretion to control levels, supporting the crucial role of S1086 phosphorylation in MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion. In contrast, the phosphomimetic mutant, FMNL1βS1086D, restored MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion. Conversely, FMNL1βS1086D mutant did not recover the deficient MTOC/MVB polarization occurring in PKCdelta-interfered clones, indicating that S1086 FMNL1beta phosphorylation alone is not sufficient for MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion. FMNL1 interference inhibited the depletion of F-actin at the cIS, which is necessary for MTOC/MVB polarization. FMNL1betaWT and FMNL1βS1086D, but not FMNL1βS1086A expression, restored F-actin depletion at the cIS. Thus, actin cytoskeleton reorganization at the IS underlies the effects of all these FMNL1beta variants on polarized secretory traffic. FMNL1 was found in the IS made by primary T lymphocytes, both in TCR and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-evoked synapses. Taken together, these results point out a crucial role of S1086 phosphorylation in FMNL1beta activation, leading to cortical actin reorganization and subsequent control of MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion.
Study of residual stresses in steel components produced via wire-arc directed energy deposition: finite element analyses and experimental approach
Authors: Liskevych Olga , Ziberov Maksym , de Oliveira Rogerio Lima Mota , de Lima Milton Sergio Fernandes
Published: August 2024

Residual stress evaluation in directed energy deposition processes is of great importance, since its underestimation or lack of control can result in mechanical properties degradation of the produced components and even failure in service, particularly when there is an overlap of tensile stresses originating from repeated thermal cycles. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic analysis of the residual stress generation in wire-arc directed energy deposition produced steel samples. For this purpose, a finite element model was first developed and validated in order to understand the stress distribution in the longitudinal and transverse sections. In addition, test specimens with different numbers of deposited layers were produced by a bidirectional continuous strategy using the cold metal transfer deposition modality, and subjected to experimental residual stress measurements employing an optical hole-drilling method. Dimensional, microstructural, and hardness profile analyses were performed as well. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that the residual stress distribution is not uniform in the wire-arc directed energy deposition produced samples because of the different cooling rates and deposited material volume in the different parts of the studied components. Moreover, different numbers of beam layers, and consequently varying thermal cycles have a significant influence on the type, magnitude, and distribution of the residual stresses, as well as on the dimensional stability and microstructure changes.
In Vitro Comparison of PU, PU-CA, and PU-CA-GO scaffolds to evaluate osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Rostami Elnaz , Rostami Solmaz , hosseinzadeh simzar , Maham Hassan Rajabi
Published: August 2024

Background
Nanoscale scaffolds play a significant role in bone tissue engineering due to their appropriate biological activity which could be increased by the presence of nanoparticles such as graphene oxide (GO). This study aimed to develop a scaffold based on polyurethane (PU), cellulose acetate (CA), and GO nanoparticles for bone tissue engineering by electrospinning technique.
Methods
In this study, the scaffolds including PU, PU-CA, and PU-CA-GO, were prepared to assess the differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) into bone. The scaffolds were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR, water contact angle, and tensile test. After cell culture, SEM, DAPI staining, and MTT assay were performed. Then, alizarin red staining (ARS), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and calcium maps were employed to evaluate the differentiation potential of MSCs.
Results
The results showed that GO nanoparticles were successfully distributed with PU-CA polymer without any agglomerations. The PU-CA-based scaffolds created hydrophilic surfaces that supported cell attachment and proliferation and provided a better milieu for cells. Also, GO increased the strain and Young modulus of the scaffolds and also, better osteogenic differentiation. ALP activity, calcium deposition, and ARS indicated that PU-CA-GO scaffold enables a suitable matrix for the osteogenic differentiation of AD-MSCs.
Conclusion
In general, the porous electrospun PU-CA-GO scaffold with desirable mechanical properties, could increase osteogenic differentiation of AD-MSCs. Hence, this scaffold could be considered as a favorable biodegradable candidate for bone tissue engineering. However, animal evaluations should be considered in future investigations.
Targeting LMO2-induced autocrine FLT3 signalling to overcome chemoresistance in early T-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Tremblay Cedric , Saw Jesslyn , Yan Feng , Boyle Jacqueline , Amarasinghe Ovini , Abdollahi Shokoufeh , Vo Ngoc Quynh Anh , Shields Benjamin , Mayoh Chelsea , McCalmont Hannah , Evans Kathryn , Steiner Anna , Parsons Kevin , McCormack Matthew , Powell David , Wong Nicholas , Jane Stephen , Lock Richard , Curtis David
Published: August 2024

Early T-cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ETP-ALL) is characterised by aberrant expression of the LMO2-LYL1 stem-cell transcription factor complex, activating mutations of cytokine receptor signalling and poor response to intensive chemotherapy. Previously, studies of the Lmo2 transgenic mouse model of ETP-ALL identified a population of stem-like T-cell progenitors with long-term self-renewal capacity and intrinsic chemoresistance linked to cellular quiescence. Here, analyses of Lmo2 transgenic mice, patient-derived xenografts and single-cell RNA-sequencing data from primary ETP-ALL identified a rare subpopulation of leukemic stem cells expressing high levels of the cytokine receptor FLT3. Despite a highly proliferative state, these FLT3-overexpressing cells had long-term self-renewal capacity and almost complete resistance to chemotherapy. We found that FLT3 and its ligand may be direct targets of the LMO2 stem-cell complex, thereby establishing an autocrine FLT3 signalling loop that could be targeted by the FLT3 inhibitor gilteritinib. Consequently, gilteritinib impaired in vivo growth of ETP-ALL and improved the response to chemotherapy. Furthermore, gilteritinib synergized with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax, which may enable ‘chemo-free’ treatment of ETP-ALL. Together, these data provide a cellular and molecular explanation for enhanced cytokine signalling in LMO2-driven ETP-ALL beyond activating mutations and a rationale for clinical trials of FLT3 inhibitors in ETP-ALL.
Future nutraceuticals from minor faunal species: source of novel pharmaceuticals & eco-livelihood
Authors: Tripathi Gireesh , Mukherjee Suchetana , Kumar Arvind , Soni Rajbala , Singh Gajender , Rout Subhalakshmi , Kumar Sanjeet
Published: August 2024

Background
In today’s world, people are facing a food security crisis and unavailability of adequate medicines due to urbanization and consistent increase in the human population. There are several cases of hunger and malnutrition in India, and at the same time, a lot of health problems include microbial infections and poor immunity. To overcome these problems, researchers are searching for unexplored foods with medicinal values that could be nutraceuticals and sources of future pharmaceuticals. Unexplored faunal species are overlooked among the therapeutic foods. Keeping this in mind, the authors conducted field surveys in selected districts of Odisha and Jharkhand states of India during 2022–2023 to document the edible minor faunal species that are consumed by the tribal communities as nutraceuticals.
Results
Through standard procedures and interaction with the local communities, the authors enumerated 31 edible minor faunal species that have both medicinal and food benefits. 26 species of fish, 3 species of insects, and 1 species of each of freshwater crab and freshwater snail make up the 31 minor faunal species. Fish additionally contains fatty acids, which are vital for human health, and the identified minor faunal food are potent in protein and fiber. It has been noted that most of the known edible faunal species are eaten to alleviate fatigue, weakness, heart issues, iron deficiency, and to get vitamins and minerals naturally without any harmful chemicals.
Conclusion
Several overlooked edible faunal species remain unexplored and may prove to be valuable sources of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. The study concludes that 31 species have been identified to have food and therapeutic uses. This finding is also corroborated by the work of other researchers who have added pharmaceutical uses. The study also encourages to carry out cutting-edge research for long-term use, to solve the issues of adequate food and medicine, and to find new potential pharmaceuticals.
Assessment of Faecal Sludge Quality, Heavy Metal Pollution, and Ecological Risk: Implications for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Odirile Phillimon , Obuseng Veronica , Moshoeshoe Mohau , Tshenyego Lamong , Mbongwe Bontle
Published: August 2024

Pit latrines represent the predominant form of onsite sanitation in Botswana, posing unique challenges in faecal sludge (FS) management. The key concerns revolve around FS extraction, treatment, and safe disposal. Currently, co-treatment with wastewater is the primary approach, but it strains wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and compromises effluent quality. This study comprehensively assesses FS quality from pit latrines and evaluates potential health risks when used in agriculture for soil improvement. Systematic sampling at various depth intervals, approximately 30 cm thick, was conducted, followed by extensive analysis, including heavy metals (copper, iron, lead, cadmium, zinc, manganese, and arsenic). The findings unequivocally demonstrate that FS from VIP latrines poses no significant health risks due to heavy metal content. Specifically, Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) values for nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and arsenic (As) were consistently below zero, indicating negligible risk of environmental contamination. However, copper (Cu) exhibited Igeo values above zero, with a moderate pollution risk but within manageable limits. The high nutrient content, particularly of nitrogen and phosphorus, highlights its agricultural potential, though prudent management is needed to mitigate eutrophication. The study advocates for separate FS treatment, resolving co-treatment operational challenges and enhancing sustainability. Implementing these recommendations promises to address FS management issues, bolster food security, and enhance Botswana's ecological well-being.
A Rare Case of Pulmonary Cryptococcosis in an Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Gbadamosi Hafisatu , Afriyie-Mensah Jane Sandra , Ansah Emmanuel Nyamekye , Dadzie Samuel Kwame , Kumordji Robert , Puplampu Peter
Published: August 2024

Pulmonary cryptococcosis is an uncommon invasive fungal infection of the lungs seen in immunocompromised individuals but increasingly reported among the immunocompetent. We report on a rare case of pulmonary cryptococcosis in the immune component host highlighting the unique clinical and radiological presentation.
Glyphosate is a transformation product of a widely used aminopolyphosphonate complexing agent
Authors: Röhnelt Anna , Martin Philipp , Athmer Mathis , Bieger Sarah , Buchner Daniel , Karst Uwe , Huhn Carolin , Schmidt Torsten , Haderlein Stefan
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate for the first time that the broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate is a stable transformation product during manganese-driven oxidation of diethylenetriamine penta(methylenephosphonate) (DTPMP), a complexing agent widely used in household and industry applications. Glyphosate formation was observed at circumneutral pH (i) in the presence of MnO2 (with and without dissolved O2) as well as (ii) in the presence of Mn2+ and O2. Maximum glyphosate yields varied with reaction conditions and ranged from 0.06 to 0.16 mol-%. Given the ubiquitous presence of manganese in the environment and wastewater treatment systems, Mn-driven transformation of DTPMP likely contributes to glyphosate formation under environmentally relevant conditions. Our results support recent reports of municipal wastewater as a previously neglected source of glyphosate in European surface waters with aminopolyphosphonates as suspected precursors. Therefore, the current approach to protecting water resources from glyphosate contamination needs to be revised, which has significant environmental, legal and economic implications.
Schizophrenia Knowledge Among Primary Family Caregivers Compared to Other Family Members of Individuals with Schizophrenia
Authors: Kurnianingsih Tuti , Young Chang Jin , Afriandi Irvan , Pandia Veranita , Dhamayanti Meita
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Schizophrenia, a profound and chronic mental disorder, is predominantly managed by family caregivers in Indonesia. Although psychoeducation about schizophrenia is usually provided to primary caregivers, insufficient comprehension of other family members can cause a negative consequence. The lack of knowledge may also cause inadequate support for relatives affected by the disorder, including medical treatment. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the level of knowledge between primary caregivers and other family members of individuals with schizophrenia.
Method
A cross-sectional design was used to evaluate the level of knowledge among ninety-four primary family caregivers and ninety-four other family members of individuals with schizophrenia. Knowledge was assessed through Indonesian version of Knowledge About Schizophrenia Test (KAST), while data was analyzed using Mann-Whitney test.
Results
The results showed that primary caregivers had superior knowledge about schizophrenia compared to other family members across various domains, including overall scores (p = 0.0001), diagnosis (p = 0.0001), symptoms (p = 0.005), etiology (p = 0.002), medication (p = 0.001), and management (p = 0.0001). Nevertheless, no significant differences were identified between the two groups about their understanding of the course and prognosis of the illness (p = 0.222).
Conclusion
Other family members were found to have significantly lower knowledge about schizophrenia compared to primary caregivers. Therefore, mental health professionals should prioritize addressing knowledge gaps about schizophrenia and providing psychoeducation not only for primary caregivers but also other family members of individuals with schizophrenia.
Effect of pulmonary rehabilitation on all-cause mortality in patients with chronic respiratory disease: A retrospective cohort study in an Australian teaching hospital.
Authors: SHARIFI Vahid , Brazzale Danny J , McDonald Christine F , Hill Catherine J , Michael Chris , Ruehland Warren R , Berlowitz David J
Published: August 2024

Background:Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is widely recommended for short-term benefits in chronic respiratory diseases, yet long-term outcomes remain uncertain. This retrospective cohort study addresses this gap, comparing 20-year mortality rates between PR participants and matched controls.
Methods: The 20-year mortality of stable chronic respiratory patients who participated in an outpatient PR program was compared with a matched control group based on the type of lung disease. Demographic and clinical variables, and the dates of deaths, were extracted and compared between two groups with two sample t-test and chi-square tests. Kaplan-Meier plots and Cox regression analyses were employed to evaluate survival differences.
Results: Between 2000 and 2002, 238 individuals enrolled in a pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program (58% male, mean age ±SD: 69±8 years, mean FEV1 % predicted ± SD: 46±21%). An equal number of people with comparable lung disease were selected as controls (88% COPD, 5% ILD). Controls had lower FEV1 % predicted values (mean±SD: 39±17%, P<0.001), smoked more (mean±SD: 48±35 pack-years, P = 0.032), and no differences in age, BMI, sex, and Index of Relative Socio-economic Advantage and Disadvantage (IRSAD). Median (IQR) follow-up time was 68 months (34-123), with 371 (78%) deaths. Univariable (HR = 1.71, p < 0.001) and multivariable (HR = 1.64, p < 0.001) Cox regression found higher mortality risk in controls. Subgroup analysis for COPD replicated these findings (HR = 1.70, P < 0.001).
Discussion: Our study suggests that clinically stable patients with chronic respiratory disease who undertake PR exhibit lower mortality than matched controls.
Trial registration: Retrospectively registered.
Comparison between Community-Acquired Pneumonia and Post-Obstructive Pneumonia Associated with Endobronchial Tumors
Authors: Yu Wenwen , Shi Yubo , Zheng Qingsong , Chen Jianwu , Zhang Xie , Chen Ali , Yu Zhiyang , Zhou Weilong , Lin Li , Zheng Legui , Ye Hua , Li Yunlei
Published: August 2024

Background Endobronchial tumors can infiltrate the bronchial wall or protrude into the bronchial lumen, causing post-obstructive pneumonia (POP). Differentiating between POP and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is challenging due to similar clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings, which can delay the diagnosis and treatment of endobronchial tumors.
Methods We compared general demographic information, laboratory test results, lung CT images, bronchoscopic observations, pathological findings between the POP group and the CAP group.
Results 1. The POP group consisted mainly of older individuals (mean age 69 vs. 56 years; P < 0.05), males (93.4% vs. 47.1%; P < 0.05), and smokers (67.2% vs. 14.7%; P < 0.05). Clinical symptoms varied, with chest pain (23.0% vs. 11.8%; P < 0.05) and hemoptysis (26.2% vs. 10.8%; P < 0.05) more prevalent in the POP group. MSCT showed that bronchial wall thickening, bronchial stenosis, occlusion, obstructive emphysema, mucoid impaction, and endobronchial shadows occurred more frequently in POP, while consolidation and exudation shadows were predominant in CAP (P < 0.05). 2. In the POP group, neoplasms were the most frequent bronchoscopic findings (57 cases, 93.44%), especially in the upper lungs. Squamous cell carcinoma was the primary pathological type (52 cases, 85.25%). The average delay in diagnosing endobronchial tumors was 214.8 days. In the POP group, 34 cases (55.74%) had abnormal CT images in the past and did not undergo bronchoscopy, resulting in delayed diagnosis. 3. Factors such as gender, age, bronchial occlusion, stenosis, mucus embolism, and intraluminal shadow were determined to be independent risk factors for endobronchial tumors (P < 0.05 and OR > 1).
Conclusions Endobronchial tumors combined with POP are easily misdiagnosed as CAP in the early stage. Factors like bronchial occlusion, stenosis, mucus embolism, and intraluminal shadows on MSCT are significant independent risk factors for these tumors, indicating the need for early bronchoscopy.
The Efficacy of the Spaced Learning Teaching Method on Student Engagement and Learning Anxiety
Authors: Kamali Mohsen , Singh Mandeep , Pallathadka Harikumar , Petkov Iliya , Prasad KDV , Jahlan Ibtesam , Ismail Sayed M. , Esanmurodova Nilufar , Dudnik Olesya
Published: August 2024

Background: Spaced learning is a relatively new teaching method to enhance learning and memory retention. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of spaced learning on student engagement and learning anxiety in the principles and techniques of nursing practical course.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 51 first-semester nursing students selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. Data were gathered using three standardized questionnaires: demographic characteristics, Learning anxiety, and the Student Engagement in School Questionnaire (SESQ). During the implementation phase, after obtaining consent and completing the demographic characteristics form, the experimental group was taught using the spaced learning method, while the control group received traditional instruction. After completing the classes, students from both groups filled out the learning anxiety and student engagement questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26) and descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The mean age of participants was 19.46 years, with females comprising the majority (58.9%). The main findings indicated that the experimental group had significantly lower learning anxiety compared to the control group (P<0.05). Additionally, the total SESQ mean score was significantly higher in the experimental group (P<0.05). The spaced learning group students also had higher mean scores in all three SESQ dimensions (Affective, Behavioral, and Cognitive), with statistically significant differences observed only in the cognitive and behavioral dimensions (P<0.05).
Conclusions: Spaced learning is a fun, enjoyable, cost-effective, and flexible teaching method that can improve the learning level of students through the management of learning anxiety. It also enhances student engagement, especially in the two crucial and influential cognitive and behavioral dimensions of academic success.
Preparing to deliver a stepped wedge cluster-randomised trial to test the effectiveness of daily symptom tracking integrated into electronic health records for managing rheumatoid arthritis: a mixed- methods feasibility trial
Authors: Druce Katie L , Masood Yumna , Chadwick Helen , Skyrme Sarah , Griffiths-Jones Deb , Santisteban Ramiro D. Bravo , Bower Peter , Firth Jill , Sharp Charlotte A , Armitage Christopher J. , Dowding Dawn , McBeth John , Sanders Caroline , Dixon William G , Veer Sabine N van der
Published: August 2024

Background:
We sought to assess the feasibility of a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial testing the effectiveness of a complex mHealth intervention called REMORA: a co-designed smartphone app enabling daily symptom tracking integrated into electronic health records (EHR) for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Methods:
We recruited patients aged ≥ 18 years with RA or inflammatory arthritis who consented to track their symptoms for up to six months using REMORA, from two outpatient departments. We analysed quantitative app and EHR data descriptively. Qualitative data from interviews and clinic observations was analysed thematically. We assessed four feasibility domains: recruitment and consent (target: 15 patients per site), intervention uptake (≥ 70% of recruited participants completed on-boarding), intervention adherence (> 50% daily symptom reports provided) and measuring disease activity as the primary outcome (scores available for ≥ 80% of people with a follow-up clinic visit).
Results:
Of 52 people consented, 32 (62%) completed on-boarding. Participants provided symptom data on 62% of study days. Among 48 people who had ≥ 1 follow-up appointment, at least one disease activity scored was obtained for 46 (96%) of them. Factors related to intervention uptake formed the biggest threat to trial feasibility, including lack of clarity of communication and guidance, access to technology, and personal challenges (e.g., being busy or unwell).
Conclusion:
We found that delivering a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial to test the effectiveness of REMORA would be feasible. This trial will contribute to the much-needed evidence base for the impact of integrated symptom tracking on care delivery and patient outcomes, including decision-making, patient experience, disease activity, and symptom burden.
Trial registration:
This feasibility trial was registered at https://www.isrctn.com/ on 23-Jan-2023 (ISRCTN21226438).
Air pollution and mortality in Portugal: AirQ+ analysis and COVID-19 impact
Authors: Simões João , Bernardo Alexandra , Gonçalves Luísa , Brito José
Published: August 2024

This study uses the World Health Organization's AirQ + model to assess the relationship between air pollution and mortality in Portugal from 2010 to 2021, focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. By integrating AirQ + with Linear Mixed Models, we analyzed long-term air pollution data and its health effects. Results indicate a significant decrease in \(\:{\text{N}\text{O}}_{2}\) and \(\:{\text{P}\text{M}}_{2.5}\) concentrations from 2017–2019 to 2020–2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions and reduced transportation emissions. Conversely, \(\:{\text{O}}_{3}\) exposure slightly increased. The model estimates over 5,000 annual deaths from \(\:{\text{N}\text{O}}_{2}\) and \(\:{\text{P}\text{M}}_{2.5}\) exposure and over 139 annual deaths from \(\:{\text{O}}_{3}\)-related respiratory diseases for 2010–2021. Despite limitations like the need for better assessment of pollutant mixtures and climatic variables, the study shows a decrease in \(\:{\text{N}\text{O}}_{2}\)-related disease burden during the pandemic. These trends reflect anomalies in mortality and pollution data rather than policy improvements. The study underscores the utility of AirQ + in guiding public health strategies and tracking progress towards the 2030 Agenda, offering insights into reducing mortality and morbidity through decreased air pollutant exposure and highlighting the need for sustained, multi-dimensional pollution reduction efforts.
The causal relationship between metformin and bone mineral density: A Two- Sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Jiahao , Zhao Lu , Miao Xin , Yang Ye , Yangb Jiafu
Published: August 2024

[Background] Metformin is a widely used hypoglycemic agent with Excellent hypoglycemic capacity. Many studies have shown that bone metabolism is altered in diabetes. Therefore, understanding the effect of metformin, a commonly used hypoglycemic agent, on bone mineral density has positive implications for advising diabetic patients about exercise and nutritional intake.
[Method] The Bone mineral density (BMD) dataset was derived from the GEFOS Consortium and the UK Biobank's GWAS meta-analysis study and categorized for classification according to the site (heel, forearm (F), femoral neck (FN) and lumbar spine (LS)) and age (15–30,30–45,45–60 and over 60). Data for metformin were obtained from the MRC-IEU consortium and included people of European ancestry (11,552 cases and 451,381 controls). We investigated the causal relationship between metformin and BMD by two-sample Mendelian randomization. Metformin was the exposure factor, and BMD was the outcome variable. Mendelian randomization was performed using inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median (WM), simple mode, and weighted mode methods, and tests for heterogeneity, horizontal multivariate analysis, and sensitivity analyses were performed.
[Results]In terms of results, no significant data suggested that oral metformin improved BMD. However, conclusions of the data on heel bone mineral density (Heel-BMD: Beta = 1.178, 95%CI = 0.3579–1.9974, P = 0.0049)) and bone mineral density in patients over 60 years (Over 60 BMD: (Beta = 1.980, 95%CI = 0.6759–3.2848, P = 0.0029)) suggest there is an association between metformin use and elevated levels of bone mineral density.
[Conclusion] This MR study found that in a European population, while oral metformin had a beneficial effect on whole-body BMD in the 60 + age group and heel BMD, there was no causal effect on the rest of the age group and the rest of the site. The potential exists for metformin to improve BMD, but more extensive clinical trials are still needed to validate this. It can be recommended in elderly patients with diabetes combined with osteoporosis.
Unusual free trisaccharides in caprine colostrum discovered by logically derived sequence tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Weng Wei-Chien , Liao Hung-En , Chang Cheng-Hsiu , Hung Shang-Cheng , Du Kai , Tu Zhijay , Lin Chun-Hung , Ni Chi-Kung
Published: August 2024

Free oligosaccharides in human milk have many biological functions for infant health. The reducing end of most human milk oligosaccharides is lactose, and caprine milk was reported to contain oligosaccharides structurally similar to those present in human milk. The structures of oligosaccharides were traditionally determined using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy or enzyme digestion. Mass spectrometry has much higher sensitivity than nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and enzyme digestion. However, conventional mass spectrometry methods only determine part of the structures of oligosaccharides, i.e., compositions and linkage positions. In this study, we used the latest developed mass spectrometry method, namely logically derived sequence tandem mass spectrometry, to determine the complete structures (i.e., composition, linkage positions, anomericities, and stereoisomers) of free neutral trisaccharides in caprine colostrum and mature milk. The high sensitivity of mass spectrometry enables us to discover oligosaccharides of low abundance. Isomers of (Hex)2HexNAc, (Hex)3, and (Hex)2Fuc which have not been reported before were identified. Many of them do not have lactose at the reducing end. Instead, the reducing end is either Glcb-(1–4)-Glc or Glcb-(1–4)-GlcNAc. These unusual oligosaccharides are higher in concentration and more structurally diverse in caprine colostrum than that in caprine mature milk and human milk. The structural diversity indicates more complicated biosynthetic pathways of caprine milk compared to that of human milk.
Stable pH-responsive superhydrophobic fabric based on AgNPs/copolymer composites for controllable oil-water separation
Authors: Li Xuanjun , Su Xiaojing , Deng Pingping , Chen Shengye , Chen Zhuohan , Li Kunquan , Wu Wenjian
Published: August 2024

In recent years, intelligent response membrane materials have aroused considerable interest in controllable oil-water separation. However, challenges such as unstable response repeatability and easy bacterial contamination continue to hinder their effective use. Herein, a superhydrophobic fabric with pH responsiveness and antibacterial property were synthesized by combing (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) with AgNPs and pH-responsive polymer (DVM) on a fabric substrate. The fabric persisted superhydrophobicity with a WCA of 156o under natural conditions, while underwent a controlled transition of surface wettability in acidic environments. Heavy oil-water mixtures and light oil-water mixtures achieved controllable separation both before and after pH response. The fabric exhibited outstanding oil-water separation capability, achieving a separation efficiency of 98.0% and a separation flux of up to 11025.0 L·m-2·h-1. The pH response and oil-water separation demonstrated excellent repeatability. Specially, the pH responsiveness was maintained for up to 10 cycles, and the oil-water separation remained repeatable for up to 15 cycles. Even when tested under various environmental conditions, the superhydrophobicity was retained. Additionally, the fabric possessed remarkable antibacterial property with an efficiency reaching 90.4%. The preparation of the superhydrophobic fabric serves as a valuable reference for developing multifunctional and stable intelligent materials for oil-water separation.
Comprehensive analysis identifies YKT6 as a potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarker in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Liming , Wang Shaoqiang , Wang Lina
Published: August 2024

Background
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The most prevalent histological subtype of lung cancer is lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), with incidence rising each year. Treating LUAD remains a significant issue due to a lack of early diagnosis and poor therapy outcomes. YKT6 is a member of the SNARE protein family, whose clinical value and biological function in LUAD has yet to be established.
Methods
TCGA, HPA and UALCAN were used to analyze YKT6 mRNA and protein levels, the correlation between YKT6 expression and clinicopathological features and prognosis. YKT6 mRNA and protein expression were verified by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and tissue microarrays (TMA). Additionally, lung cancer cell lines were chosen for YKT6 silencing to explore the effects on cell proliferation and migration. The cBioPortal was used to select YKT6-related genes. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was created based on STRING database and hub genes were screened, with their expression levels and prognosis values in LUAD analyzed accordingly. YKT6-related genes were enriched by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analyses.
Results
In LUAD, YKT6 was distinctly highly expressed with relation to clinical features of staging, smoking, lymph node metastasis, and TP53 mutation. Elevated YKT6 expression was linked to adverse prognosis, serving as an independent unfavorable prognostic factor. Moreover, YKT6 presented high diagnostic value in LUAD patients (AUC = 0.856). Experimental validation indicated that freshly collected LUAD tissues showed significantly high mRNA expression of YKT6. IHC and TMA verified increased YKT6 protein level in LUAD. Knockdown of YKT6 inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis, with mitigated capability of migration and invasion. The top ten hub genes screened by PPI network were highly expressed in LUAD, and significantly associated with poor prognosis. GO and KEGG analyses showed that YKT6-related genes were mainly involved in cell cycle.
Conclusion
Elevated YKT6 expression is related to poor prognosis of LUAD patients. YKT6 can serve as a novel biomarker for LUAD diagnosis and prognosis. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion was impaired with increased apoptosis upon YKT6 silencing in lung cancer cells. In summary, this study comprehensively uncovered that YKT6 could be identified as a potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarker in LUAD.
Seroprevalence of Human Papilloma Virus 6,11,16 and 18 among pregnant women in Mwanza-Tanzania
Authors: Mujuni Fridolin , Msemwa Betrand , Fukuru Vicent E. , Silago Vitus , Mirambo Mariam M. , Mshana Stephen E. , Gumodoka Balthazar
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
High-risk human-papilloma viruses 16 and 18 (HR-HPV 16 and HR-HPV-18) are well known to be associated with carcinoma of the cervix, head and neck, penis, and anus. Low-risk human papillomaviruses 6 and 11 (LR-HPV 6 and LR 11) infection has been associated with anogenital warts, oral papilloma, and laryngeal papillomatosis in children. HPV infection during pregnancy (HR-HPV and LR-HPV) increases the risk of vertical transmission from infected pregnant women to unborn children. The burden of HR-HPV type 16 and 18 and LR-HPV 6 and 11 is not well documented among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics (ANC). This study determined the seroprevalence and distributions of HR-HPV 16, 18, and LR –HPV 6, 11 antibodies among pregnant women attending ANC at BMC in Mwanza, Tanzania.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study involving 255 pregnant women enrolled in obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinics was conducted between November 2020 and March 2021 at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) in Mwanza. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was used to obtain patients' information. Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used for quantitative detection of immunoglobulin G (IgG) from sera. Stata version 15v1 was used for data analysis.
Results
The median age was 27(IQR: 22–31) years. The overall HPV seropositivity was 63.9% (165/255), 95% CI: 58.0-69.7, whereby 37.6%( 97/255), 32.2%( 83/255), 15.5% (40/255) and 27.1% (70) were positive for HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 respectively. Eight participants (3.1%) were positive for all 4 genotypes.
Conclusion
About two-thirds of pregnant women had antibodies against HPV 6, 11 16, and 18 indicating previous exposure to this virus. Vaccination programs should be emphasized to reduce the HPV-related manifestations in this population.
Nature play in early childhood leads to great and varied language production
Authors: Prins Jannette , Veen Chiel van der , Meeter Martijn
Published: August 2024

Active play opportunities in nature are beneficial for healthy child development: Recent reviews have shown that playing in natural environments contributes to children’s motor skill improvement, attention restoration, play skill diversification, and has an impact on wellbeing and cognitive development. This study focuses on the benefits of nature play for productive vocabulary, which is important for learning to read in later years. We investigated the effect of playing in a nature-based environment on preschooler’s (2–4 years old) word production using language sample analysis. A total of N = 30 children (2–4 years) from three Dutch early childhood centers participated. To measure children’s productive vocabulary, we recorded their language production for ten minutes while playing in two conditions: 1) a non-nature-based playground and 2) a nature-based playground. Audio tapes were transcribed, and the total number of words and the number of unique words were counted. Findings indicated a positive effect of playing in the nature-based playground on both the total number of words spoken by the children and the number of unique words. These results suggest that nature-based play environments may support the growth of children’s productive vocabulary.
Challenges and support needs among persons with a migration background who use drugs in four European metropolitan cities
Authors: Pouille Aline , De Ruysscher Clara , Selm Lena van , Amsterdam Jan van , Brink Wim van den , Busz Machteld , Gayo Roberto Perez , Atzemis Marios , Vanderplasschen Wouter
Published: August 2024

Background
Substance dependence amongst persons who immigrate for economic reasons, asylum seekers and refugees is gaining attention in several European countries. This qualitative study describes the needs of Persons with a Migration background Who Use Drugs (PMWUD) living in Amsterdam, Athens, Berlin and Paris.
Methods
This study employed a community-based participatory approach. Through semi-structured interviews with PMWUD (n = 99), we tried to identify (service) needs of PMWUD. Participants were recruited through a combination of community gatekeepers, venue-based sampling, and snowball sampling. Trained community researchers conducted the interviews, which focused on participants' living situation, substance use, physical and mental health, and employment opportunities.
Results
Despite substantial heterogeneity among the PMWUD, several common themes emerged across all groups. Participants frequently mentioned early childhood adversity, limited social networks leading to loneliness, medical, psychological, and substance use issues, histories of personal violence or poverty, homelessness, lack of necessary documents for health care, social security, and employment, and encounters with the criminal justice system. These intertwined and mutually reinforcing factors simultaneously functioned as barriers to care and support, alongside other barriers such as linguistic and cultural differences, and stigma and discrimination. Due to social exclusion, migration, and substance dependence, participants had limited reliable social networks. Therefore, they often had to rely on accessible and low-threshold services. Harm reduction services played a significant role in providing support to PMWUD. Most PMWUD indicated that basic needs for hygiene and food were met thanks to local organizations. Differences in housing opportunities and access to harm reduction services were identified in each city.
Conclusion
Structural barriers toward treatment and care, often related to administrative requirements, stand in the way of appropriate care for PMWUD. Linguistically and culturally sensitive outreach activities with limited practical requirements could break down social and treatment barriers.
Arthroscopic wafer procedure versus ulnar shortening osteotomy for treatment of ulnar impaction syndrome with a short-term follow-up
Authors: Chen Keyi , Yang Shun , Chen yabo
Published: August 2024

Objectives
A prospective study aimed to systematically compare the efficacy and safety of arthroscopic wafer procedure (AWP) versus ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) for treating ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS) with a short-term follow-up.
Methods
From May 2014 to January 2022, 94 patients diagnosed with UIS were recruited and categorized into the AWP and USO groups. At the follow-up, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital length of stay (LOS), and complications were reported. Additionally, clinical evaluation included the visual analog scale (VAS), grip strength, wrist range of motion, and the Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS) were measured at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.
Results
A total of 47 patients in the AWP group and 44 patients in the USO group completed the follow-up. Patients in the AWP group exhibited significantly reduced operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and LOS than the USO group; however, the complication rates were comparable. Moreover, patients who underwent the AWP procedure exhibited lower VAS and better outcomes regarding grip strength, wrist range of motion, and the MMWS than those who underwent the USO procedure at one and three months postoperatively. However, no statistically significant differences were observed in the two groups at 6 and 12 months postoperatively.
Conclusions
Although the subsequent safety and efficacy of the two techniques are comparable for UIS treatment, the AWP procedure should be a superior alternative for less invasive and faster recovery. Ulnar variation larger than 4 mm is more suitable for ulnar osteotomy.