bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a class of fractional-order analog wavelet filters
Authors: Li Hongmin , Zou Zixian , Feng Wei , Qian Kun
Published: September 2023

In this article, a methodology is proposed to implement fractional-order analog wavelet filters in the frequency domain. Under the proposed scheme, the fractional-order transfer function of the linear time-invariant system is used to approximate the Gaussian-like wavelet functions. Firstly, we construct a causal, stable, and physically achievable fractional-order mathematical approximation model. Then, the fractional-order mathematical approximation model is transformed into an optimization problem, and a hybrid particle swarm optimization algorithm is exploited to find its global optimal solution. At the same time, constraint terms are introduced to ensure the desired stability. The simulation results show that the fractional-order analog wavelet filters have higher approximation accuracy than the traditional integer-order analog wavelet filters. Furthermore, fractional-order analog wavelet filters can provide more precise control of the stopband attenuation rate, which is a key issue for many engineering applications.
Spontaneous improvement of bilateral clinodactyly of the little finger with trapezoidal phalanx: a case report with a 15-year follow-up
Authors: Teodonno Francesca , Maffeis Jacopo , Guero Stephane
Published: September 2023

Clinodactyly can be produced by a longitudinal epiphyseal bracket that generates either a ‘delta’ or ‘trapezoidal’ phalanx. We present a case with a 15-year follow-up of bilateral clinodactyly of the little finger, to emphasize a ‘wait-and-see’ approach as self-remodelling of his phalanges occurred during growth.
Prosthetic arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint using a surface replacing implant (CapFlex-PIP): 3-year outcomes
Authors: Meuser Stefan , Richter Martin , Kernich Nikolaus
Published: September 2023

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcomes after prosthetic arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Of 73 prostheses, 67 were available for follow-up at a median of 35 months (range 10–78 months). The median brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire score was 88/100 (interquartile range [IQR] 69–98), quickDASH 11 (IQR 1–29), pain on the visual analogue scale during activity 0 (IQR 0–2) and at rest 0 (IQR 0). Median range of motion improved from 50° (IQR 40°–70°) to 70° (IQR 53°–88°; p < 0.001). Preoperatively, there was axial deviation of >15° in 15 (23%) joints, with none postoperatively. There were no signs of loosening or migration of the prostheses. Two cases required revision with the implant staying in situ. In two cases, the prosthesis was removed and the joint was fused. Prosthetic arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint using a modular surface gliding implant is a good option for patients with primary osteoarthritis achieving acceptable pain relief, range of motion and axial stability.

 

Level of evidence: IV
Update on the second-line treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: a narrative review
Authors: Shih Chih-An , Shie Chang-Bih , Tai Wei-Chen , Chuah Seng-Kee , Lee Hsi-Chang , Hsu Ping-I
Published: September 2023

A standard bismuth quadruple therapy, a fluoroquinolone-containing triple (or quadruple) therapy or a proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-amoxicillin high-dose dual therapy has been recommended as a second-line treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection by the Maastricht VI/Florence Consensus Report. The major shortcoming of levofloxacin-amoxicillin triple therapy is low cure rate for eradicating levofloxacin-resistant strains. With the rising prevalence of levofloxacin-resistant strains, levofloxacin-amoxicillin triple therapy cannot reliably achieve a high eradication rate for second-line treatment of H. pylori infection in most countries now. The present article aims to review current second-line eradication regimens with a per-protocol eradication rate exceeding 85% in most geographic areas. Recently, a novel tetracycline-levofloxacin quadruple therapy consisting of a PPI, bismuth, tetracycline, and levofloxacin for rescue treatment of H. pylori infection has been developed. The new therapy achieved a higher per-protocol eradication rate than levofloxacin-amoxicillin triple treatment in a randomized controlled trial (98% versus 69%). Additionally, the tetracycline-levofloxacin quadruple therapy also exhibits a higher eradication rate than amoxicillin-levofloxacin quadruple therapy. High-dose dual PPI-amoxicillin therapy is another novel second-line treatment for H. pylori infection. The new therapy can achieve an eradication rate of 89% by per-protocol analysis for the second-line treatment in Taiwan. Recently, levofloxacin-based sequential quadruple therapy and potassium-competitive acid blocker have also been applied in the second-line treatment of H. pylori infection. A meta-analysis revealed that a vonoprazan-based regimen has significant superiority over a PPI-based regimen for second-line H. pylori eradication therapy. In conclusion, the eradication rate of levofloxacin-amoxicillin triple therapy is suboptimal in the second-line treatment of H. pylori infection now. Currently, a standard bismuth quadruple therapy (tetracycline-metronidazole quadruple therapy), a tetracycline-levofloxacin quadruple therapy, an amoxicillin-levofloxacin quadruple therapy, a levofloxacin-based sequential quadruple therapy or a high-dose PPI-amoxicillin dual therapy is recommended for the second-line treatment of H. pylori infection.
Food recovery and produce distribution as a system strategy for increasing access to healthy food among populations experiencing food insecurity: lessons for post-pandemic planning
Authors: Palimaru Alina I. , Caldwell Julia I. , Cohen Deborah A. , Shah Dipa , Kuo Tony
Published: September 2023

Using data from an intercept survey of 428 adults who received free surplus produce at five distribution sites and qualitative data from 15 interviews with site personnel, we examined facilitators (e.g. community partnerships, coalition support) and challenges (e.g. limited refrigerated storage, lack of transportation infrastructure) to operating a food recovery and distribution program in Los Angeles County. Overall, this food system intervention appeared to fill an unmet need for recipients, nearly 80% of whom were food insecure and 60% visited a site several months/year or monthly. For many living in this county’s underserved communities, this effort was instrumental in increasing access to healthy food before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. To sustain/expand this program’s reach, local governments and food assistance programs should provide greater coordination and oversight, and invest more resources into this food recovery and distribution infrastructure.
Results of endovascular treatments of Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus C or D aortoiliac occlusive disease involving the aortic bifurcation
Authors: Amanvermez Senarslan Dilsad , Yildırım Funda , Bayram Barıs , Kurdal Adnan Taner , Tetik Omer
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

The current study aims to report midterm results of patients treated with endovascular intervention, kissing stent, or covered endovascular reconstruction of the aortic bifurcation, for Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus C or D aortoiliac occlusive disease involving the aortic bifurcation.

Methods:

Eighteen patients who have intermittent claudication or chronic limb threatening ischemia with Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus C or D aortoiliac occlusive disease involving the aortic bifurcation enrolled to the study between January 2018 and January 2021. Kissing stents, Advanta V12 (Atrium, Getinge Group), were used in 13 patients, and the covered endovascular reconstruction of the aortic bifurcation technique was used in 4 patients to reconstruct the aortic bifurcation. The patients were followed for a median of 49 months (min. 2, max.58 months). Patency rates, mortality, morbidities, and reinterventions were recorded.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 60.4 ± 10 years. Technical success was achieved in 94.4% of the patients, but one patient had to convert to open surgery. Primary patency rate of the remaining patients was 85.6% at 58 months. Target lesion revascularization rate was 11.7%. One patient had successful reintervention for in stent restenosis, and secondary patency rate was 93.3% at 58 months. Limb salvage rate was 84.6% during the follow-up. Two patients had myocardial infarction (11.1%) and one mortality (5.6%) occurred because of cerebrovascular event in the follow-up.

Conclusions:

Endovascular techniques can be used safely for reconstruction of the aortic bifurcation in Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus C or D aortoiliac occlusive disease in selected patients who have high risk for open surgery. Covered endovascular reconstruction of the aortic bifurcation is the only technique that showed patency rates approaching open surgery in treatment of aortoiliac occlusive disease involving the aortic bifurcation to date. Although promising patency results were achieved with kissing-covered stents, long-term patency rates were still lower than those achieved with open surgery. Further randomized controlled studies comparing the long-term results of these techniques are needed.
In-Service Teachers’ Perceptions of Technology Integration in English as a Foreign Language Classrooms in China: A Multiple-Case Study
Authors: Wang（王瑾妍） Jinyan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study investigates university in-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers’ perceptions of technology integration and the relevant factors that may affect their technology integration in the classroom.

Design/Approach/Methods

This multiple case study applies Teo's extended technology acceptance model (TAM) and the theory of teacher value beliefs associated with using technology to explore seven in-service EFL teachers’ perceptions of effective technology integration and the challenges they encountered.

Findings

This study suggests that (1) perceived usefulness and (2) teacher value beliefs are two important factors that influence in-service teachers’ technology integration. Additional factors are (3) subjective norm, (4) facilitating conditions of the environment, and (5) cultural values.

Originality/Value

This study contributes to the existing literature on in-service EFL teachers’ technology integration and increases the applicability of the extended TAM in China. This study also provides insights into these teachers’ perceptions and practices of technology integration. Finally, insights gleaned from this study will guide school-level, local, and national educational policy groups on optimally supporting in-service teachers’ future technology integration.
The Moderating Effect of Entrepreneurial Skills on the Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Entrepreneurial Intention of Business Schools Students: Insight from Jordan
Authors: Abuzaid Ahmad Nasser
Published: September 2023

Entrepreneurship became the ideal alternative for young people to provide them with job opportunities in light of weak economies suffering from high unemployment rates. Therefore, the current study seeks to explore the moderating effect of entrepreneurial skills on the relationship between self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention among young people. Especially that entrepreneurial intention is considered a significant indicator and an essential step towards the involvement of young people in entrepreneurial work. In total, 558 students from 4 business schools in Jordan have completed an online questionnaire. The author tested the study hypotheses through the structural equation modelling technique by using SmartPLS version 4 software. The study results revealed that self-efficacy and entrepreneurial skills positively affect entrepreneurial intention. In addition, the study results demonstrated that entrepreneurial skills have a positive moderating effect on the relationship between self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention. Based on the study findings, the author provided some practical implications for policymakers to stimulate entrepreneurial activity.
Intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke is associated with lower risk of post-stroke dementia: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Vestergaard Sigrid Breinholt , Dahm Christina C , Gottrup Hanne , Valentin Jan Brink , Johnsen Søren Paaske , Andersen Grethe , Mortensen Janne Kærgård
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Dementia after stroke is common and is a great concern for patients and their caregivers. The objective was to investigate if intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) was associated with lower risk of dementia after stroke.

Patients and methods:

When IVT was introduced in Denmark, not all eligible patients were treated due to restricted access. We conducted a nationwide register-based cohort study of all patients with AIS in Denmark from 2004 to 2011. IVT-treated patients were propensity score-matched with comparable non-treated patients. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause and vascular dementia 2, 5, and 10 years after stroke.

Results:

Of the 5919 patients eligible for the study, 2305 IVT-treated patients were propensity score-matched with 2305 non-treated patients. Mean (SD) age was 66.6 (13.3) and 61.2% were male. Rate of all-cause dementia was lower for the IVT-treated 2 years (8.4/1000 person years (PY) vs 13.6/1000 PY, HR 0.63 (0.40–0.99)) and 5 years after stroke (7.3/1000 PY vs 11.4/1000 PY, HR 0.65 (0.46–0.91)). 10 years after stroke, the rates of all-cause dementia remained in favor of IVT (8.0/1000 PY vs 9.8/1000 PY, HR 0.83 (0.64–1.07)). IVT-treated had lower rates of vascular dementia 2 years (2.4/1000 PY vs 7.4/1000 PY, HR 0.33 (0.15–0.71)), 5 years (2.3/1000 PY vs 6.2/1000 PY, HR 0.38 (0.23–0.65)), and 10 years after stroke (3.0/1000 PY vs 5.4/1000 PY, HR 0.56 (0.38–0.81)).

Conclusion:

IVT treatment was associated with lower long-term risk of both vascular and all-cause dementia after AIS.
Fe-phthalocyanine derived highly conjugated 2D covalent organic framework as superior electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Kumar Anuj , Ubaidullah Mohd , Pandit Bidhan , Yasin Ghulam , Gupta Ram K. , Zhang Guoxin
Published: September 2023

Although porphyry systems like metallo-phthalocynine are recognized as promising molecular models for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), their poor durability and methanol tolerance are still challenges and need improvement before being considered for practical applications. Herein, we successfully designed and constructed a Fe-phthalocyanine-derived highly conjugated 2D covalent organic framework (2D FePc-COF), using octa-amino-Fe-phthalocyanine (OA-FePc) and cyclohexanone as precursors. The prepared 2D FePc-COF was characterized via multiple analytic techniques. The electrochemical studies indicated that prepared 2D FePc-COF was far more superior to OA-FePc and 20% Pt/C, displaying anodic shift of 100 and 50 mV (vs RHE) in formal potential, respectively. Moreover, this catalyst also demonstrated excellent methanol tolerance and durability (over 10,000 CV cycles). Theoretical investigations revealed that due to extended conjugation and elimination of electron donating groups (-NH2), the shifting of dz2-orbital (Fe) energy took nearer to π*-orbital (O2), allowing optimum coupling of both the orbitals, thereby enhancing 4e− ORR. This work demonstrates the art of molecular design, aiming at improving catalytic activity of macrocyclic molecular systems towards ORR.
Empirical methods for the validation of time-to-event mathematical models taking into account uncertainty and variability: application to EGFR + lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jacob Evgueni , Perrillat-Mercerot Angélique , Palgen Jean-Louis , L’Hostis Adèle , Ceres Nicoletta , Boissel Jean-Pierre , Bosley Jim , Monteiro Claudio , Kahoul Riad
Published: September 2023

Background

Over the past several decades, metrics have been defined to assess the quality of various types of models and to compare their performance depending on their capacity to explain the variance found in real-life data. However, available validation methods are mostly designed for statistical regressions rather than for mechanistic models. To our knowledge, in the latter case, there are no consensus standards, for instance for the validation of predictions against real-world data given the variability and uncertainty of the data. In this work, we focus on the prediction of time-to-event curves using as an application example a mechanistic model of non-small cell lung cancer. We designed four empirical methods to assess both model performance and reliability of predictions: two methods based on bootstrapped versions of parametric statistical tests: log-rank and combined weighted log-ranks (MaxCombo); and two methods based on bootstrapped prediction intervals, referred to here as raw coverage and the juncture metric. We also introduced the notion of observation time uncertainty to take into consideration the real life delay between the moment when an event happens, and the moment when it is observed and reported.

Results

We highlight the advantages and disadvantages of these methods according to their application context. We have shown that the context of use of the model has an impact on the model validation process. Thanks to the use of several validation metrics we have highlighted the limit of the model to predict the evolution of the disease in the whole population of mutations at the same time, and that it was more efficient with specific predictions in the target mutation populations. The choice and use of a single metric could have led to an erroneous validation of the model and its context of use.

Conclusions

With this work, we stress the importance of making judicious choices for a metric, and how using a combination of metrics could be more relevant, with the objective of validating a given model and its predictions within a specific context of use. We also show how the reliability of the results depends both on the metric and on the statistical comparisons, and that the conditions of application and the type of available information need to be taken into account to choose the best validation strategy.
Common lizard microhabitat selection varies by sex, parity mode, and colouration
Authors: Recknagel Hans , Harvey William T. , Layton Megan , Elmer Kathryn R.
Published: September 2023

Background

Animals select and interact with their environment in various ways, including to ensure their physiology is at its optimal capacity, access to prey is possible, and predators can be avoided. Often conflicting, the balance of choices made may vary depending on an individual’s life-history and condition. The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) has egg-laying and live-bearing lineages and displays a variety of dorsal patterns and colouration. How colouration and reproductive mode affect habitat selection decisions on the landscape is not known. In this study, we first tested if co-occurring male and female viviparous and oviparous common lizards differ in their microhabitat selection. Second, we tested if the dorsal colouration of an individual lizard matched its basking site choice within the microhabitat where it was encountered, which could be related to camouflage and crypsis.

Results

We found that site use differed from the habitat otherwise available, suggesting lizards actively choose the composition and structure of their microhabitat. Females were found in areas with more wood and less bare ground compared to males; we speculate that this may be for better camouflage and reducing predation risk during pregnancy, when females are less mobile. Microhabitat use also differed by parity mode: viviparous lizards were found in areas with more density of flowering plants, while oviparous lizards were found in areas that were wetter and had more moss. This may relate to differing habitat preferences of viviparous vs. oviparous for clutch lay sites. We found that an individual’s dorsal colouration matched that of the substrate of its basking site. This could indicate that individuals may choose their basking site to optimise camouflage within microhabitat. Further, all individuals were found basking in areas close to cover, which we expect could be used to escape predation.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that common lizards may actively choose their microhabitat and basking site, balancing physiological requirements, escape response and camouflage as a tactic for predator avoidance. This varies for parity modes, sexes, and dorsal colourations, suggesting that individual optimisation strategies are influenced by inter-individual variation within populations as well as determined by evolutionary differences associated with life history.
Foliar application of chitosan-putrescine nanoparticles (CTS-Put NPs) alleviates cadmium toxicity in grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. Sultana: modulation of antioxidant and photosynthetic status
Authors: Panahirad Sima , Gohari Gholamreza , Mahdavinia Gholamreza , Jafari Hessam , Kulak Muhittin , Fotopoulos Vasileios , Alcázar Rubén , Dadpour Mohammadreza
Published: September 2023

Background

Cadmium (Cd) stress displays critical damage to the plant growth and health. Uptake and accumulation of Cd in plant tissues cause detrimental effects on crop productivity and ultimately impose threats to human beings. For this reason, a quite number of attempts have been made to buffer the adverse effects or to reduce the uptake of Cd. Of those strategies, the application of functionalized nanoparticles has lately attracted increasing attention. Former reports clearly noted that putrescine (Put) displayed promising effects on alleviating different stress conditions like Cd and similarly chitosan (CTS), as well as its nano form, demonstrated parallel properties in this regard besides acting as a carrier for many loads with different applications in the agriculture industry. Herein, we, for the first time, assayed the potential effects of nano-conjugate form of Put and CTS (CTS-Put NP) on grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. Sultana suffering from Cd stress. We hypothesized that their nano conjugate combination (CTS-Put NPs) could potentially enhance Put proficiency, above all at lower doses under stress conditions via CTS as a carrier for Put. In this regard, Put (50 mg L− 1), CTS (0.5%), Put 50 mg L− 1 + CTS 0.5%” and CTS-Put NPs (0.1 and 0.5%) were applied on grapevines under Cd-stress conditions (0 and 10 mg kg− 1). The interactive effects of CTS-Put NP were investigated through a series of physiological and biochemical assays.

Results

The findings of present study clearly revealed that CTS-Put NPs as optimal treatments alleviated adverse effects of Cd-stress condition by enhancing chlorophyll (chl) a, b, carotenoids, Fv/Fm, Y(II), proline, total phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, antioxidant enzymatic activities and decreasing Y (NO), leaf and root Cd content, EL, MDA and H2O2.

Conclusions

In conclusion, CTS-Put NPs could be applied as a stress protection treatment on plants under diverse heavy metal toxicity conditions to promote plant health, potentially highlighting new avenues for sustainable crop production in the agricultural sector under the threat of climate change.
The effect of body mass index on thoracic paravertebral block analgesia after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery; a prospective interventional study
Authors: Zengin Emine Nilgün , Alagöz Ali , Yiğit Hülya , Sazak Hilal , Şekerci Sumru , Zengin Musa
Published: September 2023

Background

To investigate the effects of body mass index (BMI) on intensity postoperative pain in patients who underwent thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for postoperative analgesia after video-assissted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

Methods

Patients aged 18–80 years, ASA I-III, and BMI 18–40 kg/m2 who underwent elective VATS were included in the study. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to their BMI levels. TPVB was performed under ultrasound-guidance at the fifth thoracic vertebrae, and 30 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine was injected. The patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) was performed by using morphine and multimodal analgesia was performed. As a rescue analgesic agent, 0.5 mg/kg tramadol was given to patients intravenously when a score of visual analog scale (VAS) at rest was ≥ 4. The primary outcome was determined as VAS scores at rest and cough. Secondary outcomes were determined as postoperative morphine consumption, additional analgesic requirement, and side effects.

Results

The post-hoc test revealed that the VAS resting scores at the 4th hour (p: 0.007), 12th hour (p: 0.014), and 48th hour (p: 0.002) were statistically significantly lower in Group I compared to Group II. Additionally, VAS resting scores were also statistically significantly lower in Group I compared to Group III at all time points (p < 0.05). Similarly, the post-hoc test indicated that the VAS coughing scores at the 4th hour (p: 0.023), 12th hour (p: 0.011), and 48th hour (p: 0.019) were statistically significantly lower in Group I compared to Group II. Moreover, VAS coughing scores were statistically significantly lower in Group I compared to Group III at all time points (p < 0.001). Furthermore, there were statistically significant differences in terms of additional analgesic use between the groups (p: 0.001). Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference in terms of morphine consumption via PCA and morphine milligram equivalent consumption between the groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Higher postoperative VAS scores with TPVB applied in obese patients and the consequent increase in additional analgesics and complications require more specific postoperative management in this patient group.
Non-tuberculous mycobacteria lung disease due to Mycobacterium chimaera in a 67-year-old man treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors for lung adenocarcinoma: infection due to dysregulated immunity?
Authors: Azzarà Cecilia , Lombardi Andrea , Gramegna Andrea , Ori Margherita , Gori Andrea , Blasi Francesco , Bandera Alessandra
Published: September 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are drugs growingly employed in cancer immunotherapy which have significantly improved the prognosis of several tumours. ICIs act by restoring the “exhausted” immune system and increasing the number of T cells active against pathogens losing tolerogenic signalling, which has been linked to an increased risk of infectious events. We present the case of a 67-year-old man with locally advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with the anti-PD-L1 durvalumab. Three months after immunotherapy started, an apparent radiological progression was found with elements suggesting a parenchymal superinfection associated with weight loss, asthenia, and sputum emission. A bronchoalveolar lavage resulted positive for Mycobacterium chimaera, and treatment with amikacin iv (for eight weeks) and daily azithromycin, ethambutol, and rifampicin was started. Thirteen months after treatment started, the patient is alive with a stable lung condition. The case highlights the risk of non-tuberculous mycobacteria lung disease (NTM-LD) in patients receiving ICIs treatment. We hypothesise that durvalumab induced an exaggerated immune response toward the mycobacteria, leading to immunopathology and overt clinical manifestations. Clinicians should be aware of this possibility in patients receiving ICIs developing new signs/symptoms related to the respiratory tract, especially in countries with a high prevalence of NTM-LD.
Multiparametric MRI radiomics for the differentiation of brain glial cell hyperplasia from low-grade glioma
Authors: Gu Siqian , Qian Jing , Yang Ling , Sun Zhilei , Hu Chunhong , Wang Ximing , Hu Su , Xie Yuyang
Published: September 2023

Background

Differentiating between low-grade glioma and brain glial cell hyperplasia is crucial for the customized clinical treatment of patients.

Objective

Based on multiparametric MRI imaging and clinical risk factors, a radiomics-clinical model and nomogram were constructed for the distinction of brain glial cell hyperplasia from low-grade glioma.

Methods

Patients with brain glial cell hyperplasia and low-grade glioma who underwent surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from March 2016 to March 2022 were retrospectively included. In this study, A total of 41 patients of brain glial cell hyperplasia and 87 patients of low-grade glioma were divided into training group and validation group randomly at a ratio of 7:3. Radiomics features were extracted from T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (T1-enhanced). Then, LASSO, SVM, and RF models were created in order to choose a model with a greater level of efficiency for calculating each patient’s Rad-score (radiomics score). The independent risk factors were identified via univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to filter the Rad-score and clinical risk variables in turn. A radiomics-clinical model was next built of which effectiveness was assessed.

Results

Brain glial cell hyperplasia and low-grade gliomas from the 128 cases were randomly divided into 10 groups, of which 7 served as training group and 3 as validation group. The mass effect and Rad-score were two independent risk variables used in the construction of the radiomics-clinical model, and their respective AUCs for the training group and validation group were 0.847 and 0.858. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the validation group were 0.821, 0.750, and 0.852 respectively.

Conclusion

Combining with radiomics constructed by multiparametric MRI images and clinical features, the radiomics-clinical model and nomogram that were developed to distinguish between brain glial cell hyperplasia and low-grade glioma had a good performance.
Experiences of postpartum mental health sequelae among black and biracial women during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dwarakanath Megana , Hossain Fahmida , Balascio Phoebe , Moore Mikaela C. , Hill Ashley V. , De Genna Natacha M.
Published: September 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to qualitatively examine coping mechanisms and desired supports in pregnant and birthing Black and Biracial adolescent and young adult women during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Black and Biracial participants ages 16–23 were recruited for virtual individual semi-structured interviews. Participants (n = 25) were asked about pre- and post-natal experiences with the healthcare system, effects of the pandemic, and participants’ experiences of or desires for ideal care within the healthcare system. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded for qualitative analysis using nVivo. Discussions around postpartum mental health evolved organically when asked about how participants were coping postpartum.

Results

Nearly half the interviewees organically reported mental health symptoms consistent with postpartum depression (PPD) during questions regarding their postpartum experience. Of the 11 interviewees who reported mental health symptoms consistent with PPD, 2 were afraid to disclose their symptoms to a healthcare provider due to fear of child protective services involvement and their belief they would be treated unfairly because of their race.

Conclusion

Clinicians who care for Black and Biracial adolescent and young adult mothers must be particularly attuned to structural barriers for appropriate screening and treatment of postpartum depression. Expanding investigations of intersectional influences on young mothers’ perinatal health and PPD are needed.
Heavy metals in drinking water and periodontitis: evidence from the national oral health survey from China
Authors: Zhou Shuduo , Li Wenjing , Wan Jun , Fu Yixuan , Lu Hongye , Li Na , Zhang Xu , Si Yan , Wang Xing , Feng Xiping , Tai Baojun , Hu Deyu , Lin Huancai , Wang Bo , Wang Chunxiao , Zheng Shuguo , Liu Xuenan , Rong Wensheng , Wang Weijian , Deng Xuliang , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: September 2023

Background

Periodontitis has become an increasingly important public health issue, coupled with a high economic burden for prevention and treatment. Exposure to essential trace heavy metals has been associated with various diseases; however, the relationships between essential trace heavy metals and periodontitis remain inconclusive.

Objectives

To investigate the association between essential trace heavy metals in tap water and periodontitis in a nationally representative sample in China.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide study including 1348 participants from the Fourth National Oral Health Survey in the 2015–2016 period. The trace heavy metals concentration was measured in the local pipeline terminal tap water. Periodontitis was diagnosed according to the classification scheme proposed at the 2018 world workshop on the classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions. We used weighted multivariable logistic regression to estimate the association between essential trace heavy metals and the risk of periodontitis. We additionally used spline analysis to explore the possible nonlinear dose-response associations.

Results

Periodontitis patients were exposed to higher concentrations of essential trace heavy metals. In adjusted models, for 1 SD increase in the concentration of iron, manganese, and copper in tap water, the risk of periodontitis increased by 30% (OR: 1.30, 95%CI: 1.12–1.50), 20% (OR: 1.20, 95%CI: 1.03–1.41), and 20% (OR: 1.20, 95%CI: 1.04–1.39), respectively. Stratified analyses demonstrated that the associations between essential trace heavy metals and periodontitis were higher in females, elders, and rural residents. Spline analysis revealed nonlinear exposure-response relationships between periodontitis and exposure to iron, manganese, and copper in tap water.

Conclusions

Exposures to essential trace heavy metals in drinking water were associated with greater odds of periodontitis. Given the growing burden of periodontitis, our study sheds light on tailored public health policies for improving drinking water standards to alleviate periodontitis impairment.
Message framing effects on attitude and intention toward social participation in old age
Authors: Murayama Hiroshi , Sasaki Shusaku , Takahashi Yuta , Takase Mai , Taguchi Atsuko
Published: September 2023

Background

Message framing is frequently used to advocate health perceptions and behaviors. The effects of message framing on various health behaviors have been examined; however, its effects on social participation, a key determinant of healthy aging, are unclear. This study investigated the effects of message framing on older adults’ attitudes and intentions toward social participation.

Methods

A questionnaire survey conducted in 2020 targeted community-dwelling people aged ≥ 65 years in two rural areas in Japan. Participants were randomly allocated to four groups according to the types of framed messages to promote social participation activities: “private gain-framed message,” “private loss-framed message,” “public gain-framed message,” or “no message.” Outcomes included attitudes and intentions toward social participation (impression, interest, and readiness for social participation activities).

Results

A total of 1,524 participants were analyzed (men: 46.3%; average age: 75.7 ± 7.9 years). Ordinal logistic regression analyses of individuals who engaged in any social participation activity showed no significant intergroup difference in the outcomes after adjusting for potential covariates. Among people who did not engage in any activity, the private loss-framed message was associated with a more favorable impression and higher interest and readiness than no message. The private gain-framed message was related to a higher interest in social participation.

Conclusions

Private loss-framed messages are possibly most effective in reinforcing attitudes and intentions toward social participation, particularly among individuals without social participation experience. These findings highlight the possibility of using a message-framing approach to promote social participation in older adults.
Integrating intimate partner violence prevention content into a digital parenting chatbot intervention during COVID-19: Intervention development and remote data collection
Authors: Schafer Moa , Lachman Jamie M. , Gardner Frances , Zinser Paula , Calderon Francisco , Han Qing , Facciola Chiara , Clements Lily
Published: September 2023

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious public health issue which experienced a sharp incline during the onset of COVID-19. Increases in other forms of violence, such as violence against children (VAC), have also been linked to the pandemic, and there have been calls for greater prevention efforts that tackle both forms of violence concurrently. The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the urgent need for evidence-based and scalable violence prevention interventions that target multiple forms of family violence. Parenting programmes have shown promising results in preventing various forms of family violence, including IPV and VAC, and have recently experienced an expansion in delivery, with digital intervention formats growing. This paper describes the development and evaluation of the IPV prevention content designed and integrated into ParentText, a chatbot parenting intervention adapted from Parenting for Lifelong Health programmes.

Methods

The ParentText IPV prevention content was developed using the Six Steps in Quality Intervention Development (6SQuID) framework. This involved targeted literature searches for key studies to identify causal factors associated with IPV and determining those with greatest scope for change. Findings were used to develop the intervention content and theory of change. Consultations were held with academic researchers (n = 5), practitioners (n = 5), and local community organisations (n = 7), who reviewed the content. A formative evaluation was conducted with parents in relationships (n = 96) in Jamaica to better understand patterns in user engagement with the intervention and identify strategies to further improve engagement.

Results

Using the 6SQuID model, five topics on IPV prevention were integrated into the ParentText chatbot. Text-messages covering each topic, including additional materials such as cartoons and videos, were also developed. The formative evaluation revealed an average user-engagement length of 14 days, 0.50 chatbot interactions per day, and over half of participants selected to view additional relationship content.

Conclusions

This article provides a unique contribution as the first to integrate IPV prevention content into a remotely delivered, digital parenting intervention for low-resource settings. The findings from this research and formative evaluation shed light on the promising potential of chatbots as scalable and accessible forms of violence prevention, targeting multiple types of family violence.
The Observable Movement Quality scale for patients with low back pain (OMQ-LBP): validity and reliability in a primary care setting of physical therapy
Authors: van Dijk M. J. H. , van der Wal A. M. , Mollema† J. , Visser B. , Kiers H. , Heerkens Y. , van der Sanden M. W. G. Nijhuis –
Published: September 2023

Background

The Observable Movement Quality scale for patients with low back pain (OMQ-LBP) is a newly developed measurement instrument for use in primary care settings of physical and exercise therapists to assess movement quality (MQ) of patients with low back pain (LBP).

Objective

This study aims to determine validity, reliability and feasibility of the OMQ-LBP. The OMQ-LBP consists of a standardized movement circuit (performed twice) consisting of five daily activities problematic for LBP patients, which are scored with an 11-item observation list.

Methods

Construct validity was determined by testing seven hypotheses on associations between constructs (n = 85 patients with LBP) and four hypotheses on known group differences (n = 85 patients with LBP and n = 63 healthy controls; n = 35 matched participant-patients having VAS-pain ≥ 20 mm during and/or after both circuits and healthy controls). Internal consistency was analyzed with Cronbach’s alpha (n = 85 patients with LBP). For inter- and intra-rater reliability Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) values were examined (n = 14 therapists: seven primary care physical therapists and seven exercise therapists). Additionally, content validity and feasibility were determined using thematic analysis of a brief interview with participants, patients (n = 38) and therapists (n = 14).

Results

After Bonferroni correction 2/7 associations between constructs and 2/4 significant group differences were confirmed. Cronbach’s alpha was 0,79. The ICC-values of interrater reliability of the OMQ-LBP total score and the duration score were 0.56 and 0.99 and intra-rater reliability 0.82 and 0,93, respectively. Thematic analysis revealed five themes. Three themes elucidate that both patients and therapists perceived the content of the OMQ-LBP as valid. The fourth theme exhibits that OMQ-LBP provides a clear and unambiguous language for MQ in patients with LBP. Theme 5 depicts that the OMQ-LBP seems feasible, but video recording is time-consuming.

Conclusions

The OMQ-LBP is a promising standardized observational assessment of MQ during the five most problematic daily activities in patients with LBP. It is expected that uniform and objective description and evaluation of MQ add value to clinical reasoning and facilitate uniform communication with patients and colleagues.
Application of three-dimensional reconstruction technology in dentistry: a narrative review
Authors: Cen Yueyan , Huang Xinyue , Liu Jialing , Qin Yichun , Wu Xinrui , Ye Shiyang , Du Shufang , Liao Wen
Published: September 2023

Background

Three-dimensional(3D) reconstruction technology is a method of transforming real goals into mathematical models consistent with computer logic expressions and has been widely used in dentistry, but the lack of review and summary leads to confusion and misinterpretation of information. The purpose of this review is to provide the first comprehensive link and scientific analysis of 3D reconstruction technology and dentistry to bridge the information bias between these two disciplines.

Methods

The IEEE Xplore and PubMed databases were used for rigorous searches based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, supplemented by Google Academic as a complementary tool to retrieve all literature up to February 2023. We conducted a narrative review focusing on the empirical findings of the application of 3D reconstruction technology to dentistry.

Results

We classify the technologies applied to dentistry according to their principles and summarize the different characteristics of each category, as well as the different application scenarios determined by these characteristics of each technique. In addition, we indicate their development prospects and worthy research directions in the field of dentistry, from individual techniques to the overall discipline of 3D reconstruction technology, respectively.

Conclusions

Researchers and clinicians should make different decisions on the choice of 3D reconstruction technology based on different objectives. The main trend in the future development of 3D reconstruction technology is the joint application of technology.
Identifying potential therapeutic targets of mulberry leaf extract for the treatment of type 2 diabetes: a TMT-based quantitative proteomic analysis
Authors: Shi Lu , Wang Jingkang , He Changhao , Huang Yan , Fu Wanxin , Zhang Huilin , An Yongcheng , Wang Menglu , Shan Ziyi , Li Huimin , Lv Yinglan , Wang Chen , Cheng Long , Dai Hongyu , Duan Yuhui , Zhao Hongbin , Zhao Baosheng
Published: September 2023

Background

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaf, as a medicinal and food homologous traditional Chinese medicine, has a clear therapeutic effect on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet its underlying mechanisms have not been totally clarified. The study aimed to explore the mechanism of mulberry leaf in the treatment of T2DM through tandem mass tag (TMT)—based quantitative proteomics analysis of skeletal muscle.

Methods

The anti-diabetic activity of mulberry leaf extract (MLE) was evaluated by using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats at a dose of 4.0 g crude drug /kg p.o. daily for 8 weeks. Fasting blood glucose, body weight, food and water intake were monitored at specific intervals, and oral glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test were conducted at the 7th and 8th week respectively. At the end of the experiment, levels of glycated hemoglobin A1c, insulin, free fat acid, leptin, adiponectin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were assessed and the pathological changes of rat skeletal muscle were observed by HE staining. TMT-based quantitative proteomic analysis of skeletal muscle and bioinformatics analysis were performed and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were validated by western blot. The interactions between the components of MLE and DEPs were further assessed using molecular docking.

Results

After 8 weeks of MLE intervention, the clinical indications of T2DM such as body weight, food and water intake of rats were improved to a certain extent, while insulin sensitivity was increased and glycemic control was improved. Serum lipid profiles were significantly reduced, and the skeletal muscle fiber gap and atrophy were alleviated. Proteomic analysis of skeletal muscle showed that MLE treatment reversed 19 DEPs in T2DM rats, regulated cholesterol metabolism, fat digestion and absorption, vitamin digestion and absorption and ferroptosis signaling pathways. Key differential proteins Apolipoprotein A-1 (ApoA1) and ApoA4 were successfully validated by western blot and exhibited strong binding activity to the MLE’s ingredients.

Conclusions

This study first provided skeletal muscle proteomic changes in T2DM rats before and after MLE treatment, which may help us understand the molecular mechanisms, and provide a foundation for developing potential therapeutic targets of anti-T2DM of MLE.

Graphical Abstract
Comparison between virtual and hybrid education for psychological factors and academic stress in freshman nursing students: a case-control study
Authors: Losa-Iglesias Marta Elena , Calvo-Lobo César , Jiménez-Fernández Raquel , Rodríguez-Sanz David , Corral-Liria Inmaculada , Casado-Hernández Israel , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Background

The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted several changes in the learning methods of students. The purpose of this study was to establish whether a relationship between levels of resilience, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and academic stress in both hybrid and virtual learning education exist.

Methods

A descriptive and observational case-control study was carried out in universities that offer nursing designation. A total sample of 140 freshman nursing students was recruited. Concretely, 70 participants were recruited from an university receiving hybrid education and 70 participants were recruited from another university receiving virtual learning education. Nursing students self-reported the following questionnaires: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale, the 10 CD-Risk Connor-Davidson Risk Resilience Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Academic Stress Coping Scale.

Results

Significant differences (P = 0.001) showed higher depression levels for students who received virtual education versus received hybrid education. Differences in Rosenberg test for self-esteem and Beck Anxiety Inventory for anxiety (P > 0.05) were not found.

Conclusion

Students who received online education presented higher depression levels which could be due to they had not face-to-face relationships with teachers or classmates, whereas the hybrid education group received a different type of direct interaction with teachers and peers.