bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible clinical and radiological predictors of haemorrhagic transformation in acute stroke patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy: a clinical study
Authors: Bagnato Maria Rosaria , Maestrini Ilaria , Bruno Leonardo , Ciullo Ilaria , D’Agostino Federica , Lacidogna Giordano , Marrama Federico , Mascolo Alfredo Paolo , Rocco Alessandro , Diomedi Marina
Published: October 2024

Background:

The predictors of intracranial haemorrhagic transformation (HT) in acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) are not well known.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to identify the possible clinical and radiological predictors of HT in patients, irrespective of clinical indication for this treatment.

Design:

This study is a monocentric cohort retrospective study.

Methods:

We enrolled consecutive AIS patients, from our prospective register, admitted to Stroke Unit between June 2021 and June 2023 undergoing DAPT with Acetylsalicylic Acid and Clopidogrel within 72 h from symptoms onset. According to current guidelines, DAPT indication was for patients with a minor stroke, symptomatic intracranial artery stenosis and carotid angioplasty stenting. We collected clinical, demographical and radiological data. We used ABC/2 method to measure stroke volume in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences performed within 48 h. The primary outcome was the presence of HT at non-contrast brain computed tomography, performed 7 days after commencing DAPT.

Results:

One hundred ninety-four patients were included. Twenty-eight (14.4%) presented HT. Higher NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and MRI/DWI lesion volume related to increased risk of HT ( p < 0.001). Reperfusion therapy and mechanical thrombectomy (MT), stent placement and a loading dose (LD) of dual antiplatelet or Clopidogrel were associated with a higher occurrence of HT ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, we individuated an NIHSS cut-off value >4 (area under the curve (AUC) 0.80, sensitivity 0.82, specificity 0.65) and a volume cut-off value >8.2 ml (AUC 0.82, sensitivity 0.79, specificity 0.80) associated with an increased risk of HT (respectively, adjusted odds ratio (adj. OR) 6.5, confidence interval (CI) 1.3–32.7, p = 0.024 and adj. OR 11.0, CI 3.1–39.2, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

In clinical practice, MT treatment, antiplatelet LD administration, stent placement and clinical severity may relate to a higher risk of HT in patients with AIS and DAPT in the acute phase. In particular, we found that lesion volume cut-off could help to identify patients at greater risk of HT, regardless of the indication for DAPT.
Core psychosocial insights, challenges, and opportunities in the orthopedic surgery care of children and adolescents
Authors: Hamilton Amber A , Wongcharoenwatana Jidapa , Hoellwarth Jason S , Geffner Adam , Mehta Rena , Epstein B Sue , Fabricant Peter D , Fragomen Austin T , Rozbruch S Robert
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

This is the second phase in an investigation of the psychosocial impact of orthopedic surgery on adolescents. What are the core psychosocial factors that shape the experience of adolescent patients aged 11–18 who are undergoing orthopedic surgery?

Methods:

Two 43-question surveys (preoperative and postoperative) were developed as modified versions of the survey used in phase 1. The preoperative survey was administered 2 weeks before surgery. The postoperative survey was administered 6 weeks later. Responses were collected from free-response and Likert-scale questions exploring patient–physician relationships, office visits/hospital stays, family, peers, academics, sports, and surgical expectations. The survey was administered prospectively to patients aged 11–18 undergoing limb lengthening/reconstruction, pediatric, spine, sports, or hand/upper extremity orthopedic surgery. In all, 135 patients were identified; 105 were enrolled and completed both surveys.

Results:

There were some statistically significant changes in responses to questions regarding office visits/hospital stays, patient–physician relationships, friends/community, academic performance, and expectations for surgical experience throughout the perioperative period. There were no statistically significant changes in responses to questions regarding the role of parent/family and sports. There was no statistically significant difference between the female and male genders or between age groups in any of the domains. Overall statistical significance in this study did not consistently correlate to clinical significance.

Conclusion:

Adolescents require psychosocial support from their surgeons, caregivers, and peers in addition to respect for their independence and personal needs.

Level of evidence:

Level II.
Trends in food and nutrition literacy in obesity: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Madali-Kafes Berna , Kafes Mustafa
Published: October 2024

Background

Low food and nutrition literacy is a significant factor in obesity prevalence, adversely impacting economic and individual health outcomes, with limited research impeding effective public health interventions.

Objectives

This study seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of scientific research conducted over the past three decades on food and nutrition literacy in relation to obesity. The objective is to evaluate the thematic focus of studies in this domain.

Methods

A bibliometric analysis methodology, known as a quantitative technique, was employed to investigate scientific studies published in the Web of Science database between 1995 and 2023. The analysis, conducted using the Bibliometrix library in R StudioIDE, considers key variables such as publication year, authorship, countries of origin, high-impact journals, citations, collaborations, and keywords.

Results

The research encompasses 755 articles, revealing a notable surge in publications post-2007. Remarkably, studies predominantly concentrate on the food and nutrition literacy of children and adolescents. The most cited author is Velardo, whose 2015 article focuses on defining nutritional literacy. The total number of publications from the 10 countries with the most productive authors in this field is 590, accounting for 78.15% of the dataset. The integration of digital media tools among this demographic has sparked innovative research trends.

Conclusions

Analysis of the data underscores a shortage of research in the literature, emphasizing the need for future studies to prioritize investigating the connection between food and nutrition literacy and obesity in children and adolescents. Bridging this knowledge gap is imperative for developing effective strategies to address and mitigate the obesity epidemic in these specific age groups.
Biermer’s disease unveiled: Bilateral macular hemorrhage as a rare manifestation—A case report
Authors: Sara Ben Addou Idrissi , Mohammed Himmich , Hassan Moutei , Ahmed Bennis , Fouad Chraibi , Meriem Abdellaoui , Idriss Benatiya Andaloussi
Published: October 2024

The patient, a 30-year-old woman, presented with a sudden, painless, and severe decrease in vision in both eyes. The ophthalmological examination revealed a normal anterior segment and intraocular pressure, but a fundus examination showed bilateral macular hemorrhage. In the absence of a known history, a metabolic and hematological biological assessment was conducted. The assessment revealed megaloblastic anemia with a significantly reduced serum vitamin B12 level. Further examination confirmed Biermer’s disease as the cause of her anemia. The patient was started on a regimen of monthly vitamin B12 supplementation, which she will continue for life. This case report highlights the importance of recognizing megaloblastic anemia as a potential cause of spontaneous bilateral retinal hemorrhages. Moreover, it underscores the urgency for healthcare practitioners to promptly investigate and determine the root cause of megaloblastic anemia.
Motivated information avoidance in an mHealth weight loss intervention: Associations between unmet behavioral goals and likelihood of viewing program messages
Authors: Hurley Lex , Nezami Brooke T , Valle Carmina G , Tate Deborah F
Published: October 2024

Background

Program engagement is positively associated with improved outcomes in mobile health (mHealth) interventions, but little is known about which factors may increase or decrease the likelihood of participants viewing program messages. This study examined the association between daily behavioral goal achievement and likelihood of reading daily messages, and if this relationship is moderated by baseline depressive symptoms in an mHealth weight loss intervention.

Methods

Data come from a 12-week microrandomized pilot mHealth weight management trial that tested the effects of daily messages on behavioral goals among 52 young adults (78.8% female, 61.5% white, ages 21–35). Conditional growth curve modeling was used to regress message viewing indicators onto the number of daily behavioral goals that participants had not met at the time of message receipt, with testing for moderation by depressive symptoms and controlling for covariates clustered within participants over time.

Results

For each additional goal not met at the time of message receipt, participants were 34.8% less likely to read any message sent ( p < 0.0001), and this relationship did not appear to be related to depressive symptoms ( p = 0.1).

Conclusions

Participants may tend to avoid reading program messages when they know they are not meeting goals in a program, possibly due to motivated information avoidance to prevent negative emotional reactions from anticipated negative feedback messages. Future interventions may want to consider ways to contact participants who may be struggling in programs and also avoiding viewing standard message pushes in order to reduce the risk of disengagement.
MiniCandidate: An Innovative Method for Enhancing Employee Selection
Authors: Tews Michael J. , Pons Sydney T. , Cruz Laura , Weinstock Carter
Published: October 2024

The importance of effective decision-making in human resource management, particularly in employee selection, cannot be overstated. While education helps in identifying best practices, some individuals still struggle with myopic views toward selection, often overlooking crucial attributes. In response, the MiniCandidate exercise emerges as a novel intervention, integrating LEGO® minifigures into a playful, yet realistic, simulation. Tailored for physical classroom settings, participants construct minifigures symbolizing job candidates, with each component representing different attributes like general mental ability, the Big Five personality dimensions, and previous experience. Critiquing these minifigures fosters substantive discussions on person-job fit. This innovative exercise stands as a promising tool for developing future managers adept at navigating the complexities of hiring processes.
Association of hs-CRP with Serum Creatinine Levels in Chronic Kidney Diseases
Authors: Goriya Shivani , Priya Nivedita
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition characterized by a progressive decline in kidney function over time. It is associated with various complications, including cardiovascular disease and mortality. Inflammation, as indicated by elevated levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), has been implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of CKD. Serum creatinine (S. creatinine) levels, on the other hand, are commonly used as a marker to estimate kidney function.

Aim

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between hs-CRP levels and S. creatinine levels in CKD patients. By investigating this association, this study aimed to shed light on the potential interplay between inflammation and kidney dysfunction in CKD.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in the Parul Sevashram Hospital, Vadodara. The study consisted of 80 CKD patients with 51 males and 29 females. The hs-CRP and creatinine levels were estimated for the study and further evaluated statistically for finding the association between them.

Results

The study observed a gender distribution with 63.75% male and 36.25% female patients. Among males, 41.17% had hs-CRP levels >2 mg/L, with a mean ± standard deviation (SD) creatinine value of 4.63 ± 0.32 mg/dL. In females, only 13.79% had hs-CRP levels >2 mg/L, with a mean ± SD creatinine value of 4.62 ± 0.30 mg/dL. The statistical analysis using Fisher’s exact test showed a highly significant association between hs-CRP and S. creatinine levels ( P < .01).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a strong association between hs-CRP levels and S. creatinine levels in patients with CKD. As S. creatinine levels increased, there was a corresponding rise in hs-CRP levels. This suggests that monitoring hs-CRP levels could be valuable in assessing the progression of renal dysfunction and predicting cardiovascular complications in CKD patients. Further research is needed to fully comprehend the underlying mechanisms driving this association.
Soil liquefaction manifestations at Hatay Airport after the February 2023 Türkiye earthquake sequence
Authors: Cetin Kemal Onder , Cakir Elife , Eyigün Yalçın , Gokceoglu Candan
Published: October 2024

Hatay Airport was shaken by the Mw 7.8 and Mw 7.5 Pazarcık and Ekinözü-Elbistan Kahramanmaraş earthquake sequence on February 6, 2023. Two weeks after these events, Mw 6.3 Yayladağı-Hatay earthquake shook the site again. This paper presents the results of the reconnaissance assessment of soil liquefaction at the site, focusing on mostly three aspects: (a) the seismic response of the Hatay Airport, particularly the surface manifestations of seismic soil liquefaction in the form of soil ejecta; (b) the findings of site investigation studies performed before and after the seismic events, and (c) assessments for soil liquefaction susceptibility. Among the soil ejecta samples collected, three out of five are classified as clayey sand and fall within or near the boundary of the “further studies required” region on the susceptibility charts. The remaining two ejecta samples, composed of low and high-plasticity clay soils with PI values of 31 and 36% fall within the “not susceptible” region. The deviation from the current state of knowledge might be attributed to liquefaction-induced seepage eroding clayey soils to the ground surface or limitations in the current liquefaction susceptibility assessment methods for fine-grained soils, which may not accurately delineate the boundaries between susceptible and not-susceptible zones. Determining the most likely explanation requires additional site investigation studies, including CPT soundings, extending beyond the scope of this reconnaissance study. The documented case history and assessment results are expected to enhance the understanding of seismic soil liquefaction in fine-grained soils and contribute to the development of predictive models based on case histories for assessing liquefaction susceptibility and triggering.
Jitegemee (rely on yourself): a multi-phase process of co-creating a personal savings intervention with female sex workers in western Kenya to reduce their HIV risk
Authors: Agot Kawango , Onyango Jacob , Ochillo Marylyn , Okello Timothy Omondi , Carol Shantana , Odwar Tobias , Moraa Jane , Otticha Sophie , Odeny Redempter , Okeyo Nicky , Ochieng Linet , Ochieng Gerald , Wango Ivy , Koloo Alloys , Badia Jacinta , Camlin Carol S. , Ayieko Bernard , Napierala Sue , Thirumurthy Harsha
Published: October 2024

Background

HIV prevalence among female sex workers (FSW) is significantly higher than among women in the general population. Studies have shown that FSW engage in unprotected sex which provides higher compensation when they face emergency situations. We co-created a savings intervention – Jitegemee (rely on yourself) – with FSW to encourage them to save part of their earnings to withdraw in emergency situations in order to reduce risk.

Methods

We undertook a five-phase intervention development process between February 2021 and July 2023: 1) qualitative interviews with FSW to identify essential intervention features; 2) pilot trial to assess intervention feasibility; 3) literature review of studies on economic empowerment of FSW; 4) scoring of key components of Phases 1–3 on a scale of 1–5 (1 = definitely exclude, 5 = definitely include), for inclusion in the intervention package; 5) workshops with FSW and other key stakeholders to co-design the intervention.

Results

In phase 1, nearly all participants (99%) found the intervention acceptable to them and 95% believed it would be acceptable to other FSW. Participants suggested inclusion of financial literacy (75%), savings groups (38%) and goal-setting (24%). In the feasibility assessment, 41% saved, of whom 46% withdrew some savings. Condom use was higher among FSW who withdrew their savings compared to those who did not (χ2 7.52; p = 0.006). In Phase 3, we identified 14 intervention components. In phase 4, all suggested intervention components scored 4.5 on average. In phase 5, we held 3 workshops with FSW to co-design the intervention, which included instructions for how to save and make withdrawals, financial literacy training, and formation of savings groups.

Conclusions

A savings intervention for and by FSW was highly acceptable and feasible. Involving end-users in the design process is likely to result in greater economic security among FSW and lower engagement in higher risk transactional sex.
Factors that facilitate or hinder the use of the facial rehabilitation webtool MEPP 2.0: a comparative study in the Quebecer health system
Authors: Martineau Sarah , Barbeau Jacinthe , Paquin Alyssia , Marcotte Karine
Published: October 2024

Background

Recently, our research team developed an open source and free website called the MEPP website (for the Mirror Effect Plus Protocol) to efficiently provide mirror therapy for patients with facial palsy. Previous studies demonstrated that the first version of the MEPP website improved user experience and likely optimized patients’ performance during facial therapy. Nevertheless, compliance was found to be low despite a generally positive opinion of the website, and in light of our earlier findings, MEPP 2.0—a revised and enhanced version of the MEPP 0.1—was created. The purpose of this study was to examine and contrast various factors that help or impede institutional partners of the Quebec health care system from using the MEPP 2.0 website in comparison to its initial version.

Methods

Forty-one patients with facial palsy and nineteen clinicians working with this population were enrolled in a within-subject crossover study. For both the MEPP 1.0 and MEPP 2.0, user experience was assessed for all participants. Embodiment was assessed in patients, and factors influencing clinical use were assessed by clinicians. Qualitative comments about their experiences were also gathered. Descriptive statistics and reliability measures were calculated. Differences between the two MEPP versions were assessed using the linear mixed model.

Results

Overall, patients appreciated more the MEPP 2.0 (OR = 4.57; p < 0.001), and all clinicians preferred the MEPP 2.0 over the MEPP 1.0. For patients, it seems that facial ownership, as well as possession and control of facial movements, was significantly better with the MEPP 2.0. For clinicians, the MEPP 2.0 specifically allowed them to self-evaluate their intervention and follow up with more objectivity. The use of the MEPP 2.0 was also modulated by what their patients reported. Qualitatively, options to access an Android app and needs for improving the exercises bank were mentioned as hindering factors.

Conclusions

The updated version of the MEPP website, the MEPP 2.0, was preferred by our different partners.

Trial registration

https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN10885397. The trial was registered before the start of the study on the 1st December 2023
Dentofacial and skeletal effects of two orthodontic maxillary protraction protocols: bone anchors versus facemask
Authors: Tabellion Maike , Lisson Jörg Alexander
Published: October 2024

Background

Maxillary retrognathia and/or mandibular prognathia are resulting in class III malocclusion. Regarding orthodontic class III malocclusion treatment, the literature reports several treatment approaches. This comparative clinical study investigated two maxillary protraction protocols including bone anchors and Delaire type facemask.

Methods

Cephalometric radiographs of n = 31 patients were used for data acquisition. The patients were divided into two groups according to their treatment protocol: bone anchored protraction (n = 12, 8 female, 4 male; mean age 11.00 ± 1.76 years; average application: 13.50 ± 5.87 months) and facemask protraction (n = 19, 11 female, 8 male; mean age 6.74 ± 1.15 years; average application: 9.95 ± 4.17 months). The evaluation included established procedures for measurements of the maxilla, mandibula, incisor inclination and soft tissue. Statistics included Shapiro-Wilk- and T-Tests for the radiographs. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The cephalometric analysis showed differences among the two groups. SNA angle showed significant improvements during protraction with bone anchors (2.30 ± 1.18°) with increase in the Wits appraisal of 2.01 ± 2.65 mm. SNA angle improved also during protraction with facemask (1.22 ± 2.28°) with increase in the Wits appraisal of 1.85 ± 4.09 mm. Proclination of maxillary incisors was larger in patients with facemask (3.35 ± 6.18°) and ML-SN angle increased more (1.05 ± 1.51°) than in patients with bone anchors. Loosening rate of bone anchors was 14.58%.

Conclusions

Both treatment protocols led to correction of a class III malocclusion. However, this study was obtained immediately after protraction treatment and longitudinal observations after growth spurt will be needed to verify the treatment effects over a longer period. The use of skeletal anchorage for maxillary protraction reduces unwanted side effects and increases skeletal effects needed for class III correction.
Screening differentially expressed proteins to distinguish thymoma (B1 and B3) from thymic cysts based on tandem mass tag (TMT) technology
Authors: Shi Jingwei , Yang Rusong , Chen Xin , Wang Yan , Shi Ye , Wang Yongsheng , Liu Zhengcheng
Published: October 2024

The therapeutic approach to thymic cysts remains a subject of controversy. Predicted biomarkers for identifying thymic cysts and thymoma (THYM) are crucial. In this research, patients diagnosed with thymic cysts (MTC, n = 6) and thymoma (B1, n = 6; B3, n = 6) were enrolled. Proteins of superior quality were subjected to TMT labeling and UPLC-MS, and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and protein-protein interactive network analyses were applied to the DEPs. Some key differentially expressed genes(DEGs) were corroborated through GEPIA 32. The pan-cancer expression levels of key DEGs remarkably linked with prognosis were determined utilizing The University of ALabama at Birmingham CANcer data analysis Portal (UALCAN). Eventually, 49 DEPs were identified in the B1 vs. MTC comparison (17 upregulated and 32 downregulated), 27 in the B3 vs. MTC comparison (8 upregulated and 19 downregulated), and 38 in the B3 vs. B1 comparison (9 upregulated and 29 downregulated). IL13RA1 (down), galectin-3 binding protein (LGALS3BP)(up), PRCSH (down), C3 (down), MXRA5 (down), TNN (down), CFHR1 (down), SUN3 (down) were jointly altered in both B1 vs. NZ and B3 vs. NZ. GEPIA validated that LGALS3BP was significantly upregulated in thymoma patients. In conclusion, LGALS3BP might be an essential biomarker to identify thymoma from the thymic cyst.
Global warming induced spread of the highest human fascioliasis hyperendemic area
Authors: Cuervo Pablo F. , Bargues M. Dolores , Artigas Patricio , Buchon Paola , Angles Rene , Mas-Coma Santiago
Published: October 2024

Background

Climate change is driving the occurrence of several infectious diseases. Within a One Health action to complement the ongoing preventive chemotherapy initiative against human fascioliasis in the Northern Bolivian Altiplano hyperendemic area, field surveys showed a geographical expansion of its lymnaeid snail vector. To assess whether climate change underlies this spread of the infection risk area, an in-depth analysis of the long-term evolution of climatic factors relevant for Fasciola hepatica development was imperative.

Methods

We used monthly climatic data covering at least a 30-year period and applied two climatic risk indices, the water-budget-based system and the wet–day index, both of verified usefulness for forecasting fascioliasis transmission in this endemic area. To reveal the long-term trends of the climatic factors and forecast indices, we applied procedures of seasonal-trend decomposition based on locally weighed regression and trend analysis on the basis of linear models. To further demonstrate the changes detected, we depicted selected variables in the form of anomalies.

Results

This study revealed a notorious climatic change affecting most of the hyperendemic area, with a strong impact on crucial aspects of the fascioliasis transmission. Trends in maximum and mean temperatures show significant increases throughout the endemic area, while trends in minimum temperatures are more variable. Precipitation annual trends are negative in most of the localities. Trends in climatic risk indices show negative trends at lower altitudes or when farther from the eastern Andean chain. However, monthly and yearly values of climatic risk indices indicate a permanent transmission feasibility in almost every location.

Conclusions

Warmer temperatures have enabled lymnaeids to colonize formerly unsuitable higher altitudes, outside the endemicity area verified in the 1990s. Further, drier conditions might lead to an overexploitation of permanent water collections where lymnaeids inhabit, favoring fascioliasis transmission. Therefore, the present preventive chemotherapy by annual mass treatments is in need to widen the area of implementation. This study emphasizes the convenience for continuous monitoring of nearby zones for quick reaction and appropriate action modification.

Graphical Abstract
Microenvironment-responsive nanomedicines: a promising direction for tissue regeneration
Authors: Xiong Yuan , Mi Bo-Bin , Shahbazi Mohammad-Ali , Xia Tian , Xiao Jun
Published: October 2024

Severe tissue defects present formidable challenges to human health, persisting as major contributors to mortality rates. The complex pathological microenvironment, particularly the disrupted immune landscape within these defects, poses substantial hurdles to existing tissue regeneration strategies. However, the emergence of nanobiotechnology has opened a new direction in immunomodulatory nanomedicine, providing encouraging prospects for tissue regeneration and restoration. This review aims to gather recent advances in immunomodulatory nanomedicine to foster tissue regeneration. We begin by elucidating the distinctive features of the local immune microenvironment within defective tissues and its crucial role in tissue regeneration. Subsequently, we explore the design and functional properties of immunomodulatory nanosystems. Finally, we address the challenges and prospects of clinical translation in nanomedicine development, aiming to propose a potent approach to enhance tissue regeneration through synergistic immune modulation and nanomedicine integration.
Unveiling the causal nexus between Saudi’s seaborne trade and economy: evidence from an ARDL model
Authors: Anwar A. H. M. Mehbub , Altelmesani Mohammad , Alwosheel Abdulrahman
Published: October 2024

An economy’s primary objective is to foster high economic growth, ultimately enhancing the well-being of its citizens. Recent economic strategies have increasingly emphasized trade-oriented policies to achieve this goal. This study delves into the nexus between Saudi seaborne trade (measured in tons) and gross domestic product (GDP), aiming to determine any causal relationship between these economic variables. Using datasets from the Saudi Central Bank and the General Authority of Statistics, this research employs rigorous unit root, cointegration, and causality tests to find the intricate interplay between trade and economic growth in Saudi Arabia. The empirical analysis highlights a robust long-term relationship between Saudi GDP and seaborne trade, suggesting cointegration. Specifically, the findings reveal a significant impact of economic growth on seaborne trade, as indicated by a trade elasticity of 1.08, which implies that changes in GDP yield a substantial shift in trade. For instance, a 1% increase in GDP corresponds to an approximate 1.08% increase in trade volume. The error correction mechanism also illustrates the dynamic adjustment process: deviations of Saudi seaborne trade and economic growth from equilibrium are corrected by 61% and 43%, in the subsequent year. Furthermore, Granger causality tests unveil bidirectional causality between GDP and trade, elucidating that economic growth changes precede trade volume alterations and vice versa. Thus, fostering international trade not only stimulates income but also bolsters the domestic economy of Saudi Arabia.
Telemedicine data secure sharing scheme based on heterogeneous federated learning
Authors: Wang Nansen , Zhang Jianing , Huang Ju , Ou Wei , Han Wenbao , Zhang Qionglu
Published: October 2024

The forward triage characteristic of telemedicine highlights its importance again in the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine can provide timely emergency response in the case of environmental or biological hazards, and the patient’s medical privacy data generated in this process can also accelerate the establishment of models for preventing and treating infectious diseases. However, the reuse process of telemedicine user privacy data based on federated learning also faces significant challenges. Differences in regions, economic levels, and grades lead to heterogeneous data and resource-constrained environments, seriously damaging the federated learning process. Besides, the weak password authentication of medical terminals and eavesdropping attacks on transmission channels may cause illegal access to terminals and platforms and leakage of sensitive data. This paper proposed a telemedicine data secure-sharing scheme based on heterogeneous federated learning. Specifically, we proposed a heterogeneous federated learning scheme with model alignment to guide telemedicine practice through the reuse of telemedicine data; in addition, we designed an SM9 threshold identity authentication scheme to guarantee that the patient’s medical privacy data is protected from leakage during the federated learning process. We evaluated our scheme using two third-party medical datasets. The evaluation results indicate that this scheme can still assist the federated learning process in resisting data heterogeneity and resource constraints with almost no performance cost.
Near-field strong coupling and entanglement of quantum emitters for room-temperature quantum technologies
Authors: Clarke Daniel D. A. , Hess Ortwin
Published: October 2024

In recent years, quantum nanophotonics has forged a rich nexus of nanotechnology with photonic quantum information processing, offering remarkable prospects for advancing quantum technologies beyond their current technical limits in terms of physical compactness, energy efficiency, operation speed, temperature robustness and scalability. In this perspective, we highlight a number of recent studies that reveal the especially compelling potential of nanoplasmonic cavity quantum electrodynamics for driving quantum technologies down to nanoscale spatial and ultrafast temporal regimes, whilst elevating them to ambient temperatures. Our perspective encompasses innovative proposals for quantum plasmonic biosensing, driving ultrafast single-photon emission and achieving near-field multipartite entanglement in the strong coupling regime, with a notable emphasis on the use of industry-grade devices. We conclude with an outlook emphasizing how the bespoke characteristics and functionalities of plasmonic devices are shaping contemporary research directives in ultrafast and room-temperature quantum nanotechnologies.
Long-term, Dynamic Remodelling of the Corticotroph Transcriptome and Excitability After a Period of Chronic Stress
Authors: Duncan Peter J , Romanò Nicola , Nair Sooraj V , McClafferty Heather , Le Tissier Paul , Shipston Michael J
Published: October 2024

Chronic stress results in long-term dynamic changes at multiple levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis resulting in stress axis dysregulation with long-term impacts on human and animal health. However, the underlying mechanisms and dynamics of altered of HPA axis function, in particular at the level of pituitary corticotrophs, during a period of chronic stress and in the weeks after its cessation (defined as “recovery”) are very poorly understood. Here, we address the fundamental question of how a period of chronic stress results in altered anterior pituitary corticotroph function and whether this persists in recovery, as well as the transcriptomic changes underlying this. We demonstrate that, in mice, spontaneous and corticotrophin-releasing hormone-stimulated electrical excitability of corticotrophs, essential for ACTH secretion, is suppressed for weeks to months of recovery following a period of chronic stress. Surprisingly, there are only modest changes in the corticotroph transcriptome during the period of stress, but major alterations occur in recovery. Importantly, although transcriptional changes for a large proportion of mRNAs follow the time course suppression of corticotroph excitability, many other genes display highly dynamic transcriptional changes with distinct time courses throughout recovery. Taken together, this suggests that chronic stress results in complex dynamic transcriptional and functional changes in corticotroph physiology, which are highly dynamic for weeks following cessation of chronic stress. These insights provide a fundamental new framework to further understand underlying molecular mechanisms as well approaches to both diagnosis and treatment of stress-related dysfunction of the HPA axis.
Thoracic Continuous Spinal Anesthesia in Patients With Destroyed Lung Resulted in Favorable Perioperative Outcome
Authors: Thakuria Ruma , A. S. Arun Jagath , Kumar Gourav , Talawar Praveen
Published: October 2024

Among patients needing open abdominal surgery, those with high-risk medical conditions impose significant challenges from an anesthesia point of view. Thoracic continuous spinal anesthesia (TCSA) is an evolving technique that may be beneficial for a subset of patients with underlying high-risk medical conditions where general anesthesia (GA) becomes a relative contraindication. TCSA, as a primary anesthesia technique, is gaining favor for its advantages over GA in open abdominal surgery as it avoids airway intervention and mechanical ventilation. The current article focuses on TCSA in 2 patients at high risk for GA, which resulted in favorable perioperative outcomes.
Revolutionary Papers
Authors: Ahmad Mahvish , Benson Koni , Morgenstern Hana
Published: October 2024

Periodicals played a key role in the making of left, anticolonial, and anti-imperial institutions, politics, and cultures in the global south. This issue of Radical History Review investigates how journals operated as a device for the creation and reproduction of counterhegemonic formations, often under conditions of extreme repression and neglect. This article builds on a multiyear project entitled Revolutionary Papers, as well as the contributions to this issue, to lay out the conceptual and political groundwork for examining these periodicals and introduce our collective commitment to mobilize them as part of political struggles today. The article expands the definition of the periodical, the revolutionary, and the global south and argues that these materials offer an alternate method for studying and practicing left anticolonialism. It proposes an analytical approach to periodicals that allows one to unpack the place of the journal in building left, anticolonial institutions, politics, and cultures, and opens up the possibility of mobilizing these journals as pedagogical material in education and movement contexts.
Regimes and Resistance
Authors: Wamai Njoki , Waweru Kimani
Published: October 2024

This essay introduces the Revolutionary Papers teaching tool on the publications at Ukombozi Library, which houses leftist and revolutionary publications from Kenya and around the world. Through different movements’ publications, the authors map Kenyan resistance history through regimes of the colonial and postcolonial periods. A reading of Kenya’s history through alternative movements and the leftist publications produced during these different regimes contests the dominant narratives that have been advanced by the right-wing postindependence regimes.
The Politics of Menstruation
Authors: Sitar Polona
Published: October 2024

Menstrual blood is still regarded as embarrassing and taboo in many places all over the world. This article focuses on the study of the Red Tent as an example of feminist-spiritual menstrual activism established in 2007 in the US because it represents an important form of breaking the menstrual taboo. Although contemporary spiritualities present themselves as nonhierarchical and gender equal, spirituality and well-being in the women's circles is predominantly practiced by cisgender, heterosexual, and white middle-class women, excluding lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and others (LGBTQ+). Constructs around the sacredness of female experiences (menstruation, menopause) are problematic for transgender women who do not share these experiences, and a lack of diversity may perpetuate systematic inequities and discrimination. This article discusses whether the Red Tent in Slovenia is open to include transgender and nonbinary people. By creating alternative domains of representation in which nonnormative bodies can exist, we disrupt the sex/gender system and dismantle normative femininity and masculinity. The article argues that in this way the Red Tent has the potential to subvert the dominant ideology of gender binary construction by providing alternative models for the embodiment of gender to challenge traditional conservative gender essentialisms in society. The methodology employed consists of ethnographic fieldwork, which was performed in the Red Tent gatherings and semistructured in-depth interviews with participants who host or participate in them. Because a part of the scope of the research “lives” in the cyber world, the ethnographic research methodology was integrated with the phenomena and data obtained from the internet in the form of netnography.
Effects of altered contractile environment on muscle shape change in the human triceps surae
Authors: Kelp Nicole Y. , Tucker Kylie , Hug François , Dick Taylor J. M.
Published: October 2024

Skeletal muscles change shape when they contract. Current insights into the effects of shape change on muscle function have primarily come from experiments on isolated muscles operating at maximal activation levels. However, when muscles contract and change shape, the forces they apply onto surrounding muscles will also change. The impact of an altered contractile environment (i.e. mechanical behaviour of surrounding muscle) on muscle shape change remains unknown. To address this, we altered the mechanical contributions of the human gastrocnemii during isometric plantarflexion contractions [via changing knee angle] and determined if there were associated changes in how the muscles of the triceps surae bulged in thickness during a ramped contraction. We combined B-mode ultrasound imaging with surface electromyography to quantify the neuromechanical contributions of the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus (SOL) muscles during isometric plantarflexion contractions. Our results demonstrate that at the same SOL activity levels, altering knee angle had no influence on the magnitude of muscle shape change (thickness) in the triceps surae muscles. We observed high levels of inter-individual variability in muscle bulging patterns, particularly in the knee flexed position, suggesting a complex relationship between muscle bulging and activation strategies in the triceps surae, which may be related to differences in muscle mechanical properties between participants or across muscles. Our findings highlight the dynamics of in vivo bulging interactions among muscles within the triceps surae and provide insights for future investigations into the impact of altered contractile environments on three-dimensional muscle deformations and force production.
Freezing of movements and its correspondence with MLG1 neuron response to looming stimuli in the crab Neohelice
Authors: Oliva Damián , Gültig Matias , Cámera Alejandro , Tomsic Daniel
Published: October 2024

Upon visually detecting a moving predator, animals often freeze, i.e. stop moving, to minimize being uncovered and to gather detailed information of the object's movements and properties. In certain conditions, the freezing behavior can be enough to avoid a predatory menace but, when the risk is high or increases to a higher level, animals switch strategy and engage in an escape response. The neural bases underlying escape responses to visual stimuli have been extensively investigated both in vertebrates and arthropods. However, those involved in freezing behaviors are much less studied. Here, we investigated the freezing behavior displayed by the crab Neohelice granulata when confronted with a variety of looming stimuli simulating objects of distinct sizes approaching on a collision course at different speeds. The experiments were performed in a treadmill-like device. Animals engaged in exploratory walks responded to the looming stimulus with freezing followed by escaping. The analysis of the stimulus optical variables shows that regardless of the looming dynamic, the freezing decision is made when the angular size of the object increases by 1.4 deg. In vivo intracellular recording responses of monostratified lobula giant neurons (MLG1) to the same looming stimuli show that the freezing times correlate with the times predicted by a hypothetical spike counter of this neuron.
The efficacy of combination of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCL)/hypochlorous acid (HOCL) in wound management: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Supsamutchai Chairat , Jirasiritham Jakrapan , Punmeechao Puvee , Pornwaragorn Chaowanun , Wilasrusmee Chumpon , Poprom Napaphat
Published: October 2024

Introduction Antiseptic and antibacterial solutions are increasingly used in the treatment of various types of wounds. The successful stabilization of wounds using a combination Sodium Hypochlorite/Hypochlorous acid (NaOCl/HOCl) or superoxidized solution (SOS) has been reported, serving as an effective solution without irritating mammal cells and without posing a carcinogenic hazard. Presently, no systematic review or meta-analysis is available that compares the effectiveness of these antiseptic solutions. The present study aims to investigate the role of NaOCl/HOCl in the treatment of wounds. Methods The systematic review with extended to network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted using NaOCl/HOCl, povidone-iodine, octenidine dihydrochloride, polyhexamethylene biguanide, alcohol, and silver compared with normal saline. The primary outcome was wound healing. Using surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), the direct and indirect comparisons were conducted with the probability of selecting the best treatment. Results A total of 507 studies were identified from PUBMED and SCOPUS databases, and 64 articles were duplicates. Among 29 studies included, 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 7 cohort studies met our inclusion criteria. NaOCl/HOCl had a higher chance of wound healing 1.07-1.30 times compared with all the regimens. NaOCl/HOCl has the probability of providing the best treatment, followed by silver and octenidine with SUCRAs of 36.9, 23.1, and 21.8, respectively. Conclusions NaOCl/HOCl ranks first and proves to have the highest efficacy, followed by silver, octenidine, and PHMB for treatment.
The Gelatin-Chitosan-Tetraethyl Orthosilicate Calcium Hydroxide Composite as a Potential Dental Pulp Medicament (Study on Expression of COX-2, PGP 9.5, TNF-α and Neutrophils number)
Authors: Ghadah Abdulrahman Al-qatta , Endytiastuti Endytiastuti , Ardhani Retno , Sutardjo Rus Sudarso Iwa , Pidhatika Bidhari , Fauzi Mh Busra , Susilowati Heni , Kristanti Yulita , Handajani Juni
Published: October 2024

Introduction Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) is the material of choice for pulp therapy. However, Ca(OH)2 has drawbacks such as toxicity, poor sealing, and tunnel defect formation. Alternative materials have been developed to provide more biocompatible materials with better dentin formation ability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of composites containing gelatin (G), chitosan (CH), tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), and Ca(OH)2, namely G-CH-TEOS-Ca(OH)2 (Extended data) on inflammation of the dental pulp (expression of COX-2, PGP 9.5, TNF-α, and neutrophil number). Materials and methods A total of 16 Wistar rat models of acute pulp injury were prepared and divided into two groups, treatment and control, 8 with each. In the treatment group, we applied a pulp-capping material using G-CH-TEOS-Ca(OH)2 and Ca(OH)2. On the 1st and 3rd days, rats were sacrificed. Tissue samples from 4 rats in each group were processed for histological preparation. COX-2, PGP 9.5, and TNF-α were observed using immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, and neutrophil numbers were observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Image analysis of COX-2, PGP 9.5, and TNF-α expression was performed using ImageJ software. Results The results showed a decrease in COX-2 expression, but not significantly while PGP 9.5 and TNF-α expression were significantly higher than those in the control group. Neutrophil numbers were lower in the treatment group than in the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion The G-CH-TEOS-Ca(OH)2 composite material may have potential as an exposed pulp medicament by reducing inflammation (COX-2 expression and number of neutrophils) and increasing the regeneration factor (TNF-α expression) and nerve (PGP 9.5 expression).
Practical tips for teaching medicine in the metaverse
Authors: Rodriguez-Florido Miguel Angel , Maynar Manuel
Published: October 2024

The metaverse is based on immersive technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, body tracking, tactile sensation, etc. A growing number of studies are demonstrating the potential of the metaverse as an attractive resource for learning medicine. However, in practice, medical teachers and students often encounter significant challenges when utilizing the underlying technologies, potentially leading to frustrating learning experiences. A significant part of the teaching time is often devoted to troubleshooting technical issues with the metaverse, and the medical content itself taking a backseat until students become proficient in navigating the metaverse environment. Therefore, it is essential to fit the metaverse's underlying technologies specifically for medical education, minimizing technical hurdles for both teachers and students. In this paper, we deal with this challenge and we present a collection of practical tips that serves as a guide for medical educators making decisions in this emerging field, where they may lack prior experience. Drawing on our observation with a cohort of 776 medical students, we conclude how to effectively identify, design, or implement educational applications tailored for efficient medical learning through the metaverse. Our work may support teachers considering metaverse learning platforms for their classrooms and it is a beneficial reference for the medical education community during the initial stages of implementing the metaverse for teaching.