bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetuin-A as a plausible biomarker for cardiac valve calcification in rheumatic heart disease patients from North India
Authors: Rani Aishwarya , Singh Lakhwinder , Chakraborti Anuradha , Gupta Sameer , Singh Harkant , Toor Devinder
Published: December 2024

Background

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains a persistent public health challenge, particularly prevalent in developing and underdeveloped regions despite concerted global eradication efforts. The progressive stage of RHD, marked by valvular calcification, necessitates the imperative need to identify prognostic biomarkers. Fetuin-A, well-known for its role as a negative inhibitor of ectopic calcification, is investigated in our study as a potential biomarker for cardiac valve calcification in RHD patients.

Methods

Individuals with confirmed presence of RHD via echocardiography, who exhibited moderate to severe cardiac valve involvement, were enrolled alongside age and sex-matched healthy controls. Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay was performed to analyse serum concentration of fetuin-A in healthy controls and RHD patients. Cytokine profiling was carried out using Cytometric Bead Array.

Results

Sixty confirmed RHD patients along with age and sex-matched case–control were evaluated for their serum fetuin-A and serum cytokines levels. Our findings reveal significantly reduced serum fetuin-A levels in RHD patients (1.96 ± 0.608 ng/ml) compared to healthy controls (2.85 ± 0.55 ng/ml) ( p < 0.0001). Cytokine profiling shows nearly two-fold elevations in interleukin (IL)-17A, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), IL-6, IL-10, IL-4 and IL-2 levels among RHD patients versus healthy controls, with IL-6 showing the maximum elevation in serum concentration. Pearson's correlation coefficient ( r) values indicate a strong negative correlation between fetuin-A levels in RHD patients and various inflammatory cytokines, including IL-17A (−0.9754), IFN-γ (−0.8142), TNF-α (−0.8281), IL-10 (−0.9183), IL-6 (−0.8479), IL-4 (−0.9182) and IL-2 (−0.9430) ( p < 0.05, statistically significant).

Conclusion

This study suggests that fetuin-A can be explored as a plausible biomarker for cardiac valve calcification and has an inverse correlation with inflammatory cytokines involved in RHD.
Sibling Warmth, Self-Worth, and Empathy among Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Dong Qiyiru , Chen Bin-Bin
Published: December 2024

As one of the longest-lasting interpersonal connections within the family system, the sibling relationships are an essential foundation for children’s social development. Adolescents’ warm sibling relationships may be of great benefit to promote positive youth development. The present study aimed to explore the indirect mechanisms linking sibling warmth to empathy (i.e., cognitive and affective empathy) through self-worth among adolescents in Chinese context. Participants were N = 165 adolescents ( M = 12.93 years, SD = .29; 55.2% girls) from Shanghai, China. Measures of sibling warmth, self-worth and empathy were collected via self-reports at three time points over 1 year. Results based on a path analysis indicated that: (a) sibling warmth positively predicted self-worth; (b) self-worth positively predicted empathy; and (c) self-worth served as a mediator of the link between sibling warmth and empathy. These findings illustrate the importance of sibling warmth on empathy, which can be used in future interventions aiming at promoting positive youth development in Chinese contexts.
The application of flipped classroom teaching model combining scientific research expansion in the teaching of thoracic surgery
Authors: Liang Zhu , Chen Chunyuan , Xie Zhanqiang , Wang Zhigang , Cai Xiaobi , Chen Lin , Xu Dinghua
Published: December 2024

Background

The Department of Thoracic Surgery of the First Clinical Medical College of Guangdong Medical University took the lead in introducing the flipped classroom teaching mode combining scientific research expansion into the undergraduate teaching of clinical medicine in 2018. This teaching mode has achieved good teaching effects.

Objective

Through the flipped classroom based on role exchange, it is observed whether students can achieve a comprehensive understanding of lung cancer, whether they have basic scientific research quality, innovative application ability and stimulate students’ enthusiasm for learning.

Methods

During the research process, teachers prepare their lessons meticulously. Students interpret the study materials line by line as required, identify difficulties, and engage in discussions to resolve them. If unable to resolve, they can ask questions through various channels such as QQ, WeChat, or email. This allows students to choose their study time independently, achieving personalized learning. Teachers adjust in real-time and effectively formulate teaching plans, objectives, and progress.

Results

For this teaching method reform, most students believed that this teaching improved their teamwork skills, PPT creation skills, and active problem-solving abilities, improved their understanding of scientific research, stimulated their interest in scientific research, deepened their understanding and understanding of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, and enhanced their enthusiasm for learning.

Conclusion

This not only stimulated students’ enthusiasm for learning thoracic surgery but also improved their scientific research and clinical thinking abilities, resulting in good teaching outcomes.
Enhancing the mechanical performance of bagasse and flax fibers with NaOH treatment: A case study
Authors: Krishna Yerru Kalyana , Karthikeyan B. , Sameer Kumar Devarakonda
Published: December 2024

This investigation explores the development and exploration of hybrid composites fabricated with flax and bagasse for enhanced mechanical performance with NaOH treatments. This process involves soaking flax and bagasse powder in water and allowing it to dry in the sun, and then washing it with a NaOH solution. To improve cohesion, these materials in varying weight fractions were mixed with epoxy resin and formed into the necessary die by hand layup. Subsequent mechanical experiments were carried out to ascertain the strengths of various composite compositions and the impact of treatment conditions. These tests included hardness, impact, flexural, and tensile testing. When compared to monolithic material, the composite material containing 25% bagasse and 75% flax treated with 5% NaOH showed the highest impact strength at 16.73 joules contributed to a rise of 25% and71% compared to monolithic material. There has also been an improvement of 31.54% in hardness and 53% in ductility compared to flax matrix material with NaOH treatment. The present investigation underscores the pivotal role that weight fractions and NaOH treatments contributed in enhancing the mechanical attributes of flax/bagasse hybrid composite materials. By using morphological analyses, this study emphasizes the significance of surface treatments in the development of superior composite materials suited to particular applications.
Public Awareness Campaigns on Palliative Care: Applying a Multidimensional Model to Understand the Reception by the General Public
Authors: Matthys Marjolein , Deforche Benedicte , Deliens Luc , Cohen Joachim , Beernaert Kim , Van Brussel Leen , Chambaere Kenneth , Dhollander Naomi
Published: December 2024

Public awareness campaigns on palliative care aim to tackle limited public knowledge and negative perceptions of palliative care. However, little is known about their public reception. This study examined how existing campaigns are interpreted, evaluated, and engaged with by members of the general public. Three public campaigns, launched in Flanders or the Netherlands between 2020 and 2023, were discussed in 10 focus groups (total of 65 participants). The analysis was guided by Schrøder's multidimensional audience reception model. Our results show that campaigns were interpreted, evaluated, and engaged with in highly divergent ways. People with personal experiences surrounding serious illness were generally more open toward campaign messages, while a sense of personal relevance was lacking for others. Campaigns that centered on the perspectives of seriously ill individuals while portraying them in active and resilient positions were more positively evaluated. Moreover, they were more successful in broadening perceptions of palliative care beyond being hospital-based end-of-life care for severely ill and care-dependent persons. Conversely, materials that neglected the patient’s voice while framing palliative care as enabling moments of joy “despite serious illness” generally fortified prior perceptions and were often rejected. Additionally, a preference for highlighting the social context surrounding the patient was repeatedly expressed. We conclude that diversified strategies, optimizing a sense of personal relevance, are needed to more effectively influence public understanding and engagement toward palliative care. Destigmatizing palliative care also involves destigmatizing persons with serious illness, and representing them with an emphasis on their agency and strength is vital to this shift.
Maximising the value of research projects for sustainable society development: The triple S system of social impact assessment – A case study of Chulalongkorn University research projects, Thailand
Authors: Areesophonpichet Sornnate , Lawthong Nuttaporn , Panbamrungkij Thitirat
Published: December 2024

This study develops an SDG-aligned social impact assessment (SIA) system for five Chulalongkorn University research projects, in Thailand. Employing mixed methods in an exploratory sequential design, the first phase involves qualitative data collection, including focus groups and field studies, to establish the SIA system. The second phase employs quantitative data collection and applies SIA and social return on investment (SROI) approaches to evaluate these projects. The study yields the ‘triple S system’ (3S), comprising three components: strategic SDGs (S1); social impact assessment models (S2) encompassing goal-based, expert, and development evaluations; and SIA steps (S3), including the six-step ‘3I3S process’. These steps involve SDG indicator mapping (I1), impact pathway analysis (I2), identification of output, outcome, and impact indicators (I3), site visits and focus groups (S1), SROI analysis (S2), and summarisation of SDG social impact assessment results (S3). The study reveals alignment with specific SDGs (2, 4, 5, 8, 11, and 17) across the five projects. Projected 5-year SROI assessments range from 1.25 to 9.82. This dynamic system effectively monitors project progress toward social impact while identifying opportunities for enhancing the SIA process. This study contributes an SDG-aligned SIA system to enhance research project impact assessment, fostering more effective, sustainable, and socially beneficial initiatives.
Poor adherence to ultrasound surveillance is associated with infrainguinal bypass graft failure – An ongoing challenge in Australia
Authors: Koo Mei Ping Melody , Bookun Hansraj Riteesh
Published: December 2024

Backgrounds

Infra-inguinal bypass (IIB) surgery is a time-proven and reliable management avenue for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The importance of ultrasound surveillance in maintaining IIB graft patency is well-recognised, yet adherence rates are underreported. This study evaluates the impact of surveillance compliance on graft outcomes in an Australian setting.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis of IIBs performed between 2010 and 2020 at a major vascular surgical institution in Australia was conducted retrospectively. Demographic data, peri-operative comorbidities and configuration of the bypass were captured as well as post-discharge results. Surveillance compliance was assessed based on adherence to post-operative ultrasound and clinic visits. The chief outcome measure was graft occlusion within 2 years. Secondary outcomes were major amputation, mortality and ambulatory function.

Results

Over a time period of 10 years, 239 bypasses were carried out on 207 individuals. 83% complied with surveillance protocols. Adherence rates were lower in regional patients. Non-compliance was significantly associated with vein graft occlusions ( p < 0.01) but not with synthetic grafts. Regional referrals ( p < 0.01), low pre-operative haemoglobin ( p < 0.01), post-operative transfusion ( p = 0.02) and use of prosthetic conduit ( p < 0.01) were identified as significant predictors of graft thrombosis. Patients with occluded grafts were at substantially higher risk of ambulatory deterioration (2.4 fold), major limb amputation or death (8.6 fold) within 12 months. One-year survival without amputation was 88.3%.

Conclusion

Enhanced bypass graft surveillance is essential in clinical practice to minimise graft occlusion, reduction in morbidity, limb loss and death. This study reveals suboptimal compliance in Australian vascular surgical setting, particularly in regional areas, underscoring the need for improved education, resource allocation and infrastructural development.
Effect of Acacia Honey on Serum Uric Acid Level and Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Xu Xiuhe , Zhang Peiyan , Cui Qingke , He Xiaoli , Pan Lizhu , Zhou Zhuojun , Li Jiayue , Wang Caixia , Yang Xiaojuan , Zhu Guiqi
Published: December 2024

Objective

Honey is generally considered to be a natural product with rich nutritional value. However, the fructose contained in honey is harmful to the liver. This study aims to observe the effect of acacia honey (AH) on serum uric acid and liver injury in potassium oxonate model rats after drinking AH aqueous solution.

Materials and methods

Sixty male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were selected and randomly divided into control group (CON group), potassium oxonate model group (OA model group), 10% fructose group (10%F group) and different concentration AH groups (25%, 12.5% and 6.25% AH groups). 100 mg/kg OA solution combined with fructose solution or AH solution was administered to gavage model rats. After the 4 weeks test, blood and liver tissues were collected, serum uric acid content, biochemical indexes, activities of alanine transaminase and alanine transaminase were determined, and liver histological sections were observed.

Results

AH can significantly increase serum uric acid level, liver weight and liver to body weight ratio ( p < 0.05). The levels of serum triglyceride (TG), free fatty acid (FFA), and high-density fatty acid cholesterol (HDL-C) were elevated in 25% and 12.5% AH groups compared with CON group or OA model group ( p < 0.05), but serum levels of TG, FFA, HDL-C, total cholesterol (T-CHO) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were significantly increased in 6.25%AH group ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

AH can cause fatty liver disease in all rats in a dose dependent manner. In the dose range of the present study, AH can induce hyperuricemia, hypertriglyceridemia and fatty liver disease.
Effect of Curcumin and Black tea Extract on Breast, Liver and Colon Cancer Cells, Studying the Effect of raw Turmeric Powder Hangover on Adsorption of Heavy Metal
Authors: Hussein Azhar Maher , Badawy Nagwa A. , Elbayaa A. A. , Zaahkouk S. A. M. , Emam Abeer A. , Miski Samar F. , Belal Amany , Mehany Ahmed B. M.
Published: December 2024

Objective/Background

Curcumin is a phenolic molecule found in turmeric, it has a wide range of pharmacological actions and is being studied in clinical investigations for the treatment of many illnesses. The durability of turmeric as a natural coloring agent in various media is not well understood. Numerous variables including additives can change the stability of turmeric. Therefore, it is interesting to investigate the stability of turmeric in different additive combinations.

Methods

To examine the following three main areas: (1) the impact of different additives (green and black tea) on the kinetic analysis and chemical stability of commercial turmeric as a natural mixture of curcuminoids. (2) Study the adsorption of Cr (III) by raw turmeric powder hangover and (3) the anticancer activity of both turmeric raw material and black tea.

Results

Investigations of the extract on human cancer cells as breast, colon and liver using Sulphorhodamine B (SRB) assay method shwoed a good anticancer activity of black tea and the extracted turmeric raw material.

Conclusion

Raw turmeric powder hangover has effect on adsorption of heavy metal, also curcumin and black tea extract have anticancer activity against the tested cancer cells, IC50 value ranged from 0.25 to 2.5 μg/ml.
Bioinspired synthetic peptide-based biomaterials regenerate bone through biomimicking of extracellular matrix
Authors: Azadi Sareh , Yazdanpanah Mohammad Ali , Afshari Ali , Alahdad Niloofar , Chegeni Solmaz , Angaji Abdolhamid , Rezayat Seyed Mahdi , Tavakol Shima
Published: December 2024

There have been remarkable advancements in regenerative medicine for bone regeneration, tackling the worldwide health concern of tissue loss. Tissue engineering uses the body’s natural capabilities and applies biomaterials and bioactive molecules to replace damaged or lost tissues and restore their functionality. While synthetic ceramics have overcome some challenges associated with allografts and xenografts, they still need essential growth factors and biomolecules. Combining ceramics and bioactive molecules, such as peptides derived from biological motifs of vital proteins, is the most effective approach to achieve optimal bone regeneration. These bioactive peptides induce various cellular processes and modify scaffold properties by mimicking the function of natural osteogenic, angiogenic and antibacterial biomolecules. The present review aims to consolidate the latest and most pertinent information on the advancements in bioactive peptides, including angiogenic, osteogenic, antimicrobial, and self-assembling peptide nanofibers for bone tissue regeneration, elucidating their biological effects and potential clinical implications.
Digital empowerment in long-term condition management: A systematic review and narrative synthesis of the experiences and perceptions of home-based digital health coaching interventions
Authors: Christie Rachel , Sadler Euan , Sait Matthew , Light Karen , Cox Chantel , Board Michele , Thomas Sarah , Walker Dawn-Marie , Allen-Pick Mark , Bradbury Katherine , Murphy Jane
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Globally, the prevalence of long-term conditions (LTCs) continues to rise. The impact of LTCs presents significant challenges for international health and social care systems and continues to be a leading cause of mortality. Despite this, digital health coaching interventions (DHCIs) appear to be a promising strategy for managing chronic disease. The aims of this systematic review and narrative synthesis were to explore the barriers and enablers for the use of DHCIs and to gather valuable information to inform the development of a new DHCI for LTC management.

Methods

Six major databases were searched for studies published in the English language between January 2012 and December 2022. Qualitative and mixed methods studies were included if there was an intervention of digital health coaching alongside the use of a digital component. Interventions were suitable if completed in community settings, amongst adults aged over 18 with a LTC, or amongst informal carers, health coaches, or health and care professionals. Included studies were assessed for quality, and results were analysed with narrative synthesis.

Results

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, covering a range of LTCs and interventions which included digital health coaching (telephone, video, online, text) and the use of a digital component (online, application-based). Results showed that DHCIs require personalisation and feedback, and cannot be overcomplex. Importantly, an element of human connection is favourable.

Conclusions

The acceptability of DHCIs is variable- and context-dependent. Further research is needed to focus on the breadth of LTCs in order to generalise findings.
Mapping cognitive dysfunction in relapsing multiple sclerosis with mild disability: A cross-sectional study from South India
Authors: Nair Sruthi S , Thulaseedharan Jissa Vinodha , Rajan Neenumol Kandagathparambil , Bava Elshal , Nair Gowthami , Sundaram Soumya , Nair Muralidharan , Kesavadas Chandrasekharan , Menon Ramshekhar N
Published: December 2024

Background

Cognitive dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS) occurs early. Locally adapted neuropsychological data from India in MS is scarce.

Objectives

We aimed to identify the pattern of cognitive impairment in relapsing MS (RMS) with mild disability using a regionally-adapted MS-specific cognitive battery.

Methodology

The study included 59 persons with MS (pwMS) with expanded disability status scale (EDSS)≤ 4 and 62 controls. The battery had 8 neuropsychological tests (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test [PASAT], Symbol Digit Modalities Test [SDMT], Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test [RAVLT], Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised [BVMT-R], verbal fluency [VF], Judgement of Line Orientation Test [JOLOT], Wisconsin Card Sorting Test [WCST] and Trail Making Test-B [TMT-B]) with 11 measures. The scores were compared between the groups for pattern and associations of cognitive impairment.

Results

The pwMS cohort had 39 (66.1%) females; mean age of 32.56 (±8.17) years. Scores were significantly worse for pwMS in 10 of 11 tests (except JOLOT). Cohen's-d test showed the largest effect sizes for PASAT, SDMT, VF and TMT-B. Cognitive impairment (defined as ≥2 abnormal tests) were noted in 41 (69.5%) pwMS. Male sex was associated with cognitive impairment ( p = 0.002).

Conclusions

In pwMS with mild disability, nearly two-thirds had cognitive abnormalities, predominantly involving processing speed, working memory, executive function, and VF.
Determining the Typologies of Basketball Fans
Authors: Halici Alperen , Otkan Can Çavin
Published: December 2024

This research aims to determine the typologies of basketball fans and reveal whether the variables differ according to the typologies. Criterion sampling, one of the purposive sampling methods, was used in the sample selection to determine the typologies of basketball fans. In this context, 211 fans were included in the study. The “Fan Typology Scale” was used as a data collection tool. Skewness and kurtosis values were examined to determine whether the data set was suitable for normal distribution. After examining the data distribution, a two-stage hierarchical clustering analysis was used to reveal the fan typology, and the research questions were tested with ANOVA and chi-square analyses. As a result, it was determined that basketball fans consist of three typologies. These are fanatic, classical, and social fans. When the distribution of fan groups according to typologies was analyzed, it was determined that most (43.6%) were classical, and the least (20.9%) were fanatic fans. Hooligan fans with violent tendencies did not emerge in this study conducted specifically for basketball. Considering the results that the percentage of fanatic fans with high averages in both fan behavior variables and motivations to support the team is lower in the distribution of basketball fans and that classic and social fan groups with motivations, such as entertainment and socializing rather than supporting the team are in the majority, it can be said that meeting fan expectations is a more critical factor for basketball clubs compared to football clubs.
Association Between Articular Incongruence After Trochleoplasty and Long-term Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis
Authors: Pineda Tomas , Dan Michael J. , Cance Nicolas , Demey Guillaume , Dejour David H.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Trochleoplasty has shown promising results in selected patients with patellar instability. However, concerns persist regarding its potential relationship with long-term osteoarthritis (OA) and the underlying causes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the correlation between postoperative patellofemoral incongruence after trochleoplasty and long-term OA.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent sulcus-deepening trochleoplasty between 2003 and 2013 and identified 43 patients after their initial search. All patients were assessed at a minimum follow-up of 10 years. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and end-of-follow-up lateral and axial view knee radiographs were used to evaluate patellofemoral OA using the Iwano classification, the patellar articular surface angle (PA), and the trochlear articular surface angle (TA). Data on patellar redislocation, reoperations, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Kujala, and patient satisfaction scores were also collected. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between articular surface angles and OA, and Spearman rank correlation analysis was used to assess the association between categorical and ordinal variables. A 2-tailed Student t test was used to compare the mean values of the clinical scores between groups.

Results:

Ten patients (10 knees) met the inclusion criteria, with a mean follow-up of 15.3 ± 3.93 years. The PA and TA were 148.5°± 24.75° and 148.5°± 17.85°, respectively, with a mean patellofemoral incongruence of 21.4°± 16.03°. None of the patients had preoperative OA, and 4 (40%) developed postoperative OA: 2 with Iwano grade 1 and 2 with Iwano grade 2. Higher patellofemoral incongruence was found to correlate with the development of patellofemoral OA ( P = .017). No independent correlation was found between the TA and OA ( P = .553) or the PA and OA ( P = .884). The satisfaction, Kujala, and IKDC scores were 8.2 ± 1.75, 82.5 ± 10.09, and 84.4 ± 9.79, respectively. Only 1 patient (10%) reported a traumatic patellar dislocation, none required reoperations, and all (100%) indicated they would undergo surgery again.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that patellofemoral incongruence after trochleoplasty was associated with the development of long-term OA without an independent correlation with a flat trochlea or a flat patella.
Multilingual Learners and Elementary Science Achievement: Exploring Trends and Heterogeneity Across Subgroups
Authors: Curran F. Chris , Pacheco Mark B. , Boza Lelydeyvis , Harris-Walls Katharine , Tan Tiffany , Deig Amber
Published: December 2024

Multilingual learners (MLs) represent an increasing proportion of public school students. Although much attention has been given to their academic performance in English language arts and math, less research has addressed their academic performance in science, particularly in elementary school. This study leveraged nationally representative data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study of 2010–2011 to document the science test score trajectories of MLs from kindergarten through fifth grade. Using descriptive statistics and regression analyses, our findings document wide variation in elementary science test performance among subgroups of MLs while also documenting the rapid gains this group makes in science performance across the elementary years compared with non-MLs. Our study is among the first to use nationally representative data to examine science learning trajectories of MLs and provides a foundation for policy, practice, and future research aimed at understanding how the linguistic assets of MLs promote science learning.
Education Initiative for Essential Conversations with Parents—Serious Illness Guide for Pediatrics (SICG-Peds©-Peds)
Authors: Breemen Camara van , Lusney Nadine , Doherty Megan , Castro-Noriega Elisa , Siden Harold (Hal)
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To explore whether training on the SICG-Peds© (Serious Illness Guide for Pediatrics) impacts a pediatric clinician's confidence and knowledge in participating and initiating/leading difficult conversations with families of children living with a serious illness.

Methods

Over 2 years, clinicians from BC and Ontario who care for children with serious illnesses attended training workshops on the SICG-Peds©. These workshops were evaluated using pre- and post-workshop questionnaires. Participants reported confidence scores on a scale of 1 to 10.

Results

In total, 134 and 140 clinicians attended the workshops in BC and Ontario, respectively. The majority of clinicians who completed the immediate post-workshop survey ( N = 223, 94.5%), responded that the content enhanced their knowledge about pediatric serious illness conversations (SIC). Confidence scores in initiating/leading a SIC significantly increased from median 5 (interquartile range [IQR] 3-7) pre-workshop to 7 (IQR 7-9) immediately post-workshop ( P < .0001). Confidence scores in participating as a non-leader in a SIC also significantly increased from median 7 (IQR 6-9) pre-workshop to median 8 (IQR 7-9) immediately post-workshop ( P < .0001).

Conclusions

Overall, these workshops significantly improved participants’ confidence. Effectiveness and knowledge enhancement were other areas where the majority of participants reported positive improvements. Areas for continued support were identified as more mentoring, and training for supporting the guide's use in a clinical setting.
When and How Does Innovation Augment the Effect of HRM on SME Performance?
Authors: Islami Xhavit , Mulolli Enis
Published: December 2024

Does innovation by firms augment employees’ impact on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) performance? In this study, we examine the role that innovations play in connecting human resource management (HRM) practices (such as training and development, communication and information, compensation and reward, job design and performance appraisal) with SME performance. This is based on research that looks at human-innovation collaboration, HRM practices and SME performance. Indeed, to date, there has not been a comprehensive HRM-innovation-SME performance framework adequately documented in the literature. Therefore, we conducted a quantitative study using self-administered questionnaires with the SMEs. First, we find that the implementation of HRM practices results in a higher level of innovation and performance among SMEs and that this enhanced innovation ultimately leads to an increase in SME performance. Next, we find that innovation mediates (changes positively) the relationship between HRM practices and SME performance. We conclude that generating creative employees through appropriate HRM practices can improve SME performance, but this desirable outcome depends on realising the innovation rate. This study makes a significant contribution to the body of knowledge about the relationship between high-commitment HRM practices, innovation and SME performance.
Inhibition Mechanism of the Interface Reaction in the Molten Pool of SiCp/Al Composites by Pulsed Laser Welding with Powder-Filling
Authors: Shi Yan , Wang Shupeng , Jian Yongchao
Published: December 2024

In the welding process of SiCp/Al composites, Al reacts with SiC particles in the molten pool to form Al4C3, a brittle phase, damaging the reinforcement and causing a sharp decline in the mechanical properties of weld joints. To mitigate this, a method of welding SiCp/Al composites by pulsed laser welding with powder-filling is proposed, inhibiting the interface reaction between Al and SiC particles in the molten pool. This study investigates the effect of pulse frequency on the temperature field of the molten pool, and combines thermal-fluid numerical simulation to analyze the peak temperature at different pulse frequencies, optimizing the Si content to ultimately inhibit the interface reaction in the molten pool. Results indicate that an appropriate pulse frequency achieves good welding formation and effectively regulates the peak temperature of the molten pool. Only a small amount of brittle phase is present in the weld joint, creating favorable conditions for the addition of alloying elements. The interface reaction is slowed down by adjusting the pulse frequency, though it is not completely inhibited. When the addition of Si content reaches 8%, the occurrence of the interface reaction is effectively inhibited. In weld joints with the addition of 8wt% Si powder, no Al4C3 brittle phase is present, and the tensile strength of the weld joint is 266 MPa, up to 70% of the base material.
Vitamin E nanoparticles enhance performance and immune status of Nile tilapia
Authors: Farag Enas A. H. , Baromh Mohamed Z. , El-kalamwi Naglaa , Sherif Ahmed H.
Published: December 2024

Vitamin E (VE) is an essential vitamin liposoluble antioxidant in aquatic animals that is usually lost during feed processing and digestion, whereas nano-chitosan, a polysaccharide, could protect VE. In this study, Nile tilapia (70.85 ± 0.2 g) was fed VE (100 mg/kg dry diet) and a chitosan protected-VE nanoparticle (NPs) with gradual percentages of recommended dose 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% for 4, 6, and 8 weeks. Growth parameters total weight gain (TG), daily weight gain (DWG), and relative growth rate (RGR) were significantly and positively correlated with VENPs additions. Regardless of the addition level, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly lower in the VENP groups. Lysozyme, serum antibacterial activity, and oxidative burst activity indicated the superiority of VENPs (VENPs75 and VENPs100) in enhancing the fish’s innate immunity compared to bulk VE and the control groups. Fish were experimentally challenged with pathogenic Aeromonas hydrophila; those received dietary showed a low mortality rate (MR%), about 40% compared with 70% in the control with lower re-isolation compared to the control and VE groups. VENPs could provide ascending relative protection level during the period of 4 to 8 weeks; RPL ranged from 33.3 to 42.86% (VENPs100), 16.67–42.86% (VENPs75), 0 to 28.57% (VENPs50), and 0 to 14.29% (VENPs25 and VE), respectively. Finally, this study recommended incorporating VENPs into the Nile tilapia diet at 50, 75, and 100 mg/ kg fish feed. Fish in the VENPs75 and VENPs100 groups were immune boosted, becoming less vulnerable to A. hydrophila infection.
Functional circuits of LYL1 controlled by supraphysiological androgen in prostate cancer cells to regulate cell senescence
Authors: Heidari Horestani Mehdi , Schindler Katrin , Baniahmad Aria
Published: December 2024

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a public health problem mostly reported in developed countries. The androgen receptor (AR) regulates the development and physiological function of normal prostate as well as the proliferation of cancerous prostate tissue. Treatment with supraphysiological androgen levels (SAL) is used in bipolar androgen therapy and inhibits PCa growth, suggesting SAL induces a tumor suppressive program. It was shown that SAL induces cellular senescence, in PCa cell lines, human tumor samples and in xenografted mouse tumor model.

Methods

Transcriptome and ChIP-seq analysis, PCa spheroids, knockdown (KD), co-immunoprecipitation, qRT-PCR, immune detection, in situ histochemistry.

Results

Here we show that LYL1 is upregulated by the clock gene BHLHE40 in both C4-2 and LNCaP cells and mediates SAL-induced cellular senescence. LYL1 is a transcriptional co-factor with oncogenic activity in leukemia. However, analysis of a large cohort of PCa patients shows that LYL1 expression is reduced during PCa development and reduced expression is significantly associated with reduced overall survival. SAL induces the expression of LYL1 through upregulation of BHLHE40. On the other hand, the KD of LYL1 enhances BHLHE40 expression via a negative feedback loop including p27kip1. Regulatory feedback loops were identified by rescue experiments. Functional analysis revealed that KD of BHLHE40 reduces whereas LYL1 KD enhances p27kip1 levels. The KD of p27kip1 suggests that this cell cycle inhibitor is a mediator of cellular senescence by the BHLHE40 - LYL1 regulatory loop. Interestingly, ChIP-seq data revealed recruitment of both AR and BHLHE40 to the LYL1 gene indicating that LYL1 is a novel direct target of both factors. Furthermore, RNA-seq data from C4-2 cells suggests that LYL1 and BHLHE40 encompass a large overlap of genes by SAL suggesting a co-regulatory activity controlled by androgens. In line with this, co-immunoprecipitation suggests LYL1 is in a complex with BHLHE40 and the AR.

Conclusions

Three novel feed-back loops and a novel AR- BHLHE40 / LYL1 -p27kip1 axis has been identified mediating cellular senescence in PCa cells.

Graphical Abstract
The top 100 most-cited articles on artificial intelligence in breast radiology: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Singh Sneha , Healy Nuala A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) in radiology is a rapidly evolving field. In breast imaging, AI has already been applied in a real-world setting and multiple studies have been conducted in the area. The aim of this analysis is to identify the most influential publications on the topic of artificial intelligence in breast imaging.

Methods

A retrospective bibliometric analysis was conducted on artificial intelligence in breast radiology using the Web of Science database. The search strategy involved searching for the keywords ‘breast radiology’ or ‘breast imaging’ and the various keywords associated with AI such as ‘deep learning’, ‘machine learning,’ and ‘neural networks’.

Results

From the top 100 list, the number of citations per article ranged from 30 to 346 (average 85). The highest cited article titled ‘Artificial Neural Networks In Mammography—Application To Decision-Making In The Diagnosis Of Breast-Cancer’ was published in Radiology in 1993. Eighty-three of the articles were published in the last 10 years. The journal with the greatest number of articles was Radiology (n = 22). The most common country of origin was the United States (n = 51). Commonly occurring topics published were the use of deep learning models for breast cancer detection in mammography or ultrasound, radiomics in breast cancer, and the use of AI for breast cancer risk prediction.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the top 100 most-cited papers on the subject of artificial intelligence in breast radiology and discusses the current most influential papers in the field.

Clinical relevance statement

This article provides a concise summary of the top 100 most-cited articles in the field of artificial intelligence in breast radiology. It discusses the most impactful articles and explores the recent trends and topics of research in the field.

Key Points

Multiple studies have been conducted on AI in breast radiology.

The most-cited article was published in the journal Radiology in 1993.

This study highlights influential articles and topics on AI in breast radiology.

Graphical Abstract
Pediatricians at the forefront of child mental health? A Delphi method exploration
Authors: Pinchover Shulamit , Berger Raanan Rony , Gadassi Hava , Shalev Amit , Dahari Dasi , Gutentag Tony , Rudolf Mary
Published: December 2024

Background

Rising mental health challenges among children and adolescents are a global concern. However, a shortage of professionals, inadequate competence and lack of resources hamper necessary care, presenting a major challenge to health service provision. Community pediatricians, frequently the initial contact for mental health issues, are in a key position to improve access to care. The Delphi method was employed as an initial step toward redefining the role of pediatricians and the re-design of pediatric responses within Israeli primary mental health care.

Method

Ninety-two experts, including pediatricians, psychiatrists, mental health and child-development professionals, and parents of children with emotional-behavioral challenges participated in a three-round Delphi study. A survey including 6 topics (37 items, 9 demographic questions) was distributed, probing the envisioned role of pediatricians in children’s mental health care.

Results

There was strong endorsement between experts regarding pediatricians’ potential roles in risk identification, parental guidance, psycho-education, and health policy isuues such as referrals to mental health professionals, and the need for training in this domain. However, discord arose concerning changes in the service framework and pediatricians’ role in psychiatric drug prescription. The majority agreed on the necessity of close support from mental health experts, despite differing in the form it should take.

Conclusions

This study underscores the critical need for mental health training among pediatricians and advocates for a structured, consensus-driven model to bolster early detection and initial treatment of mental health issues in children. The findings highlight the potential for leveraging this model to drive health policy changes and improve service delivery in pediatric mental health care, and might inform other health systems considering extending pediatricians’ roles. By equipping pediatricians with essential competencies, this approach can broaden mental health service delivery and reduce stigma. Aligning the model with expert consensus paves the way for impactful policy reform, enhancing pediatricians’ roles in mental health risk identification and intervention, and advancing child health services.
Defect engineering strategy to enhance the SO2 adsorption performance of Zr-based MOFs materials: potential application for purifying cultural heritage storage environments
Authors: Shi Meirong , Zejin  , Wang Yongjin , Jia Nan , Sha Zhongping , Fu Peng
Published: December 2024

In this work, a novel Zr-based MOFs material (D-NH2-UiO-66) with multi-stage pore structure was prepared by introducing defects in NH2-UiO-66 through a ligand regulation strategy, aiming to enhance the SO2 adsorption performance and be applied to purify the cultural relic storage environment. The research demonstrated that the defect engineering effectively increased the pore diameter of the precursor material, leading to the exposure of internal adsorption sites within the framework and the utilization of defect sites, thereby increasing the number of adsorption sites. Moreover, the enlargement of pore diameter facilitated the diffusion of gas molecules within the framework, which enhanced the mass transfer process. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were conducted to deeply investigate the impact of defect structures on the adsorption mechanism. In addition, breakthrough experiments were conducted to assess the adsorption performance of D-NH2-UiO-66 towards SO2, and the material’s potential application in cultural relic storage environments was explored through controlled laboratory tests. The results indicated that this material possesses outstanding SO2 adsorption performance, effectively improving the integrity of paper fibers and enhancing the tensile strength of the paper. This study not only provides new insights into the application of MOFs materials in environmental protection but also offers an effective solution for the preservation of cultural heritage.
IPTA APPLICATION FOR RAINFALL TRENDS ANALYSIS IN THE MEKKERA WATERSHED (NORTHWEST OF ALGERIA)
Authors: Benabdelkrim M. A. , Ghenim A. N. , Megnounif A. , Abida H. , Abdelbaki C. , Ghenim O. , Kantoush S. , Saber M. , Sumi T.
Published: December 2024

In semi-arid climates, precipitation is the most important hydrometeorological event since it remains the main source of water. In the context of climate change, the analysis of its temporal trends provides useful information for effective planning and management of water resources. Daily rainfall data collected from 12 meteorological stations in the downstream-Mekkera Basin, Northwest Algeria, between 1975 and 2011 were analyzed using the Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis (IPTA) method. The analysis focused on trends in average monthly rainfall, the average number of rainy days, the average daily intensity, the maximum daily rainfall, and the maximum number of dry days per month. The results reveal a contrasting trend in monthly precipitation averages between dry and wet season months. Precipitation drops noticeably in the spring months with a decrease in maximum daily precipitation, and less noticeably in winter months with an increase in the intensity of maximum daily events. On the other hand, August and September present an increase in precipitation with an increase in the intensity of maximum daily precipitation. Additionally, the average number of wet days and the maximum number of dry days showed opposite trends, where an increase in rainy days led to a decrease in dry days and vice versa. These findings highlight the necessity for adaptive water management strategies to address the changing precipitation patterns in the region.
Inspiring Use of Novel Blocks in Chronic Pain Management: Quadro-iliac Plane Block a Promising Step Toward the Future—A Case Report
Authors: Ciftci Bahadir , Tulgar Serkan , Sakul Bayram Ufuk , Alver Selcuk , Alici Haci Ahmet
Published: December 2024

Quadro-iliac plane block (QIPB) is a novel regional anesthesia technique that provides analgesia in the abdominal, lumbar, and hip regions. Case reports about the efficacy of this block in the literature are limited. In this report, we would like to share our successful QIPB experience with a patient with chronic myofascial low back pain.
Politics of the Middle East
Authors: El-Mahdi Rabab
Published: December 2024

This article argues that the interplay between a limited disciplinary research agenda in political science and an overemphasis on quantitative methods has left a whole range of important untapped questions regarding the Middle East and North Africa. This is most obvious, when looking at the leading journals of the discipline following the 2011 uprisings. While, there was a short-lived shift toward topics like social mobilization, the scholarship still maintained the primacy of conventional ontological taxonomies such as Islam and democracy as the main pathways to understanding the region. The diversity of issues and the political complexity of the unfolding processes was overshadowed by many of the age-old questions about democratic transitions. At same time an increasing weight given to quantitative and experimental method often times took precedence over the intellectual and political relevance of the research question being asked.
Remnants of Eternal Possibility
Authors: Chubb-Confer Francesca
Published: December 2024

This article presents a new way of considering the poetry of Muhammad Iqbal (d. 1938) by arguing that Iqbal's lyric poetry, particularly the ghazal, should be read as a mode of expression that sets out its own methodology for negotiating the new demands colonial modernity made of the Muslim subject's relationship to tradition. Through a close reading and analysis of a Persian ghazal from Iqbal's 1923 Payām-i Mashriq (Message of/from the East), this article proposes that Iqbal's ghazals offer a lyric method in which the resources of the Persianate poetic tradition navigate these demands on the self and its representation. With an analysis of formal and rhetorical features, mainly apostrophe and the imperative voice, as well as a consideration of Iqbal's philosophy of time and the representation of temporality in the lyric, one can see how the poem reorients the connection between tradition and modernity not as historical trajectory, but as co-constituted in lyric time in an ambivalent, mutually generative relationship.