bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of denosumab on the incidence of fractures and mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kobayashi Arisa , Yaginuma Tatsuhiro , Kato Kazuhiko , Nakashima Akio , Ohkido Ichiro , Yokoo Takashi
Published: March 2024

Background: Patients undergoing hemodialysis are at an elevated risk of fractures; however, substantial evidence on osteoporosis treatment in this population is lacking. We explored the efficacy of denosumab, an anti-IgG2 antibody, in reducing fracture incidence and all-cause mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study—conducted from December 2013 to December 2022—evaluated the effects of denosumab on fracture incidence and mortality. Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank tests were used to assess survival and fracture/mortality risks, respectively. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze fractures and all-cause mortality.
Results: Among 263 patients undergoing hemodialysis, 52 (19.8%) received denosumab. The median age was 71.7±12.1 years, with 93 (35.4%) females, and the median dialysis duration was 48 months (interquartile range, 4–114). During the study, 52 (22.8%) non-denosumab-treated patients had fractures compared to eight (3.0%) in the denosumab group. No significant differences were observed in the unadjusted model (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.24–1.08). Adjusting for competing mortality and clinical factors, the HR remained at 0.51 (95% CI, 0.22–1.20). Regarding all-cause mortality, no significant differences were observed in the unadjusted model (HR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.43–1.07]); however, a significant reduction in mortality was observed in the adjusted model (HR, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.26–0.81]). Notably, the denosumab group showed a significant decrease in mortality, particularly in cardiovascular disease-related cases (HR, 0.32 [95% CI, 0.14–0.75]).
Conclusions: Denosumab may significantly reduce all-cause mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis, particularly in those with cardiovascular complications. This finding offers a promising direction for osteoporosis treatment in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Research on skid resistance performance of Asphalt Pavement Based on 3D Texture Feature Parameters
Authors: LI junjie , YAN YANFENGKUST
Published: March 2024

As is well known, the surface texture of asphalt pavement is adversely affected by the long-term rainwater erosion, leading to a rapid decrease in skid resistance. Through a small accelerated loading device, high-precision 3D scanner, and digital image correlation technology (DIC), this study investigates the changes of surface texture and wear mechanism of basalt asphalt pavement and steel slag asphalt pavement under the influence of water erosion and driving load, respectively. It is found that the 3D-texture characteristic parameters, namely root mean square height (Sq), skewness (Ssk), peak support volume (Vmp), core support volume (Vmc), central void volume (Vvc), and valley void volume (Vvv), decrease significantly, the asphalt film peels off, leading to surface layer deformation, when subjected to loads ranging from 200,000 to 500,000. Moreover, the asphalt film peels off obviously when subjected to 500000 loads. It is noteworthy that the wear resistance of steel slag asphalt pavement is significantly better than that of the basalt asphalt pavement, providing a practical basis for the asphalt mixtures design with high wear resistance.
Bioelectrical impedance analysis–derived phase angle predicts possible sarcopenia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis: A retrospective study
Authors: Zeng Ying , Chen Yang , Yang Yujie , Qiu Ying , Yuan Huaihong
Published: March 2024

Background Early identification of possible sarcopenia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is important to prevent adverse outcomes and improve the quality of life of these patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between phase angle (Pha) and possible sarcopenia and to assess its performance as a predictor of possible sarcopenia in MHD patients. Methods Data were retrospectively collected from outpatient under going MHD at Wenjiang Hemodialysis Center in the Department of Nephrology in West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China. The 2019 consensus update by Asian working group for sarcopenia (AWGS) was used to assess whether a MHD patient had sarcopenia. A total of 244 MHD patients were collected in this study, and after excluding patients with sarcopenia, data from 122 men (56 with possible sarcopenia) and 96 women (55 with possible sarcopenia) patients were included in this study. Participants were divided into a possible sarcopenic group and a non-sarcopenic group to develop a binary classification. Results After eliminating handgrip strength (HGS), short physical performance battery (SPPB), and skeletal muscle index (SMI), the best three features for possible sarcopenia identifcation of men patients are age, body mass index (BMI), and Pha (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, age, and Pha are the best two features for Women (P < 0.05). Spearman analysis showed that Pha was significantly negatively associated with possible sarcopenia (men: r =−0.501, P < 0.001; women: r=−0.356, P < 0.001). Pha showed significant positive associations with HGS, SPPB and SMI (men: r = 0.590, P < 0.001、r = 0.485, P < 0.001、r = 0.338, P < 0.001; women: r = 0.374, P < 0.001、r = 0.360, P < 0.001、r = 0.290, P = 0.004). The results of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) of Pha in screening male possible sarcopenia was 0.790, with sensitivity of 78.57%, specificity of 74.24%, and the optimal cutoff value of 6.52°. The AUC of Pha in screening women for possible sarcopenia was 0.707, sensitivity of 58.18%, specificity of 76.74%, and optimal cutoff value of 5.60°. Conclusions Pha may be a useful and simple predictor of the risk of possible sarcopenia in patients with MHD, and more research is needed to further promote the use of Pha in possible sarcopenia.
RIT1M90I is a driver of lung adenocarcinoma tumorigenesis and resistance to targeted therapy
Authors: Maddalo Danilo , DiMarco Ashley , Ravicahndran Mirunalini , Lau Jeffrey , Lima Anthony , Lin Eva , Weng Julie , Gerosa Luca , Larrocha Pablo Saenz-Lopez , Hunsaker Thomas , Xiao Yang , Mis Monika , Havnar Charles , Chen Wennie , Barck Kai , Totpal Klara , Foreman Oded , Merchant Mark , Sodir Nicole
Published: March 2024

RIT1 is a RAS-family GTPase that is mutated in 2.4% and amplified in up to 14% of lung adenocarcinoma patients. Yet, the oncogenic potential of RIT1 in the lungs is not completely understood. Many patients with RIT1 alterations are considered ‘oncogene-negative’, hence they are not eligible for any targeted therapy in the clinic. The role of RIT1 in cancer has been historically understudied due to the lack of in vitro and in vivo models harboring RIT1 alterations. In this study, we generated the first murine model of RIT1M90I-mutant lung cancer. We found that RIT1M90I was tumorigenic in the lungs and the tumors displayed histopathological features similar to lung adenocarcinoma. We leveraged this new model to assess both ex vivo and in vivo sensitivity of RIT1 tumors to the SHP2 inhibitor, migoprotafib, in combination with other targeted therapies. Finally, we showed that RIT1M90I can also drive resistance to the KRASG12C inhibitor, divarasib, and that the combination with migoprotafib can revert this phenotype. Our data shows that RIT1M90I is a bona fide oncogenic driver of NSCLC and mediator of targeted therapy resistance as a co-occurring mutation. Taken together, our study suggests that RIT1-altered cancer patients may benefit from combination treatment with SHP2 inhibitor in the primary and resistance setting.
Colchicine alleviates interstitial lung disease in mice with experimental autoimmune myositis by inhibiting the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps
Authors: Li Feifei , Zhao Peipei , Zhao Liangtao , Bai Ling , Su Qiyan , Feng Yingyue , Ma Wenlan , Zhu Jiarui , Zhang Sigong
Published: March 2024

Background:Our previous study has shown that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are associated with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy and its related interstitial lung disease (IIM-ILD). Colchicine plays an anti-inflammatory role mainly by inhibiting the activity and chemotaxis of neutrophils. This study will verify the role and mechanism of colchicine in IIM-ILD.
Methods: A mouse model of experimental autoimmune myositis was established and divided into model group, colchicine treatment group (1, 2mg/kg), and healthy control group (n=5/ group). After 5 weeks, the mice were sacrificed to evaluate the degree of pulmonary interstitial lesions and the formation of NETs. Human neutrophils were stimulated with PMA in vitro, and the treatment group was pretreated with colchicine (40nmol/L). After 4 hours of culture, the neutrophils were stained with Sytox Green and observed by fluorescence microscopy. Human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells were stimulated with NETs, and the experimental group was pretreated with colchicine (7.5, 15nmol/L), and the markers of inflammation and pyroptosis were detected 24h later.
Results: (1) Pathological staining of lung tissue showed that colchicine treatment significantly alleviated interstitial lung disease in EAM mice. (2) After colchicine treatment, the infiltration of NETs in the lung tissue of EAM was significantly reduced, and the serum level of NETs was also significantly decreased (F=6.859, P < 0.05). (3) Colchicine intervention significantly attenuated the formation of NETs on neutrophils induced by PMA in vitro. (4) Colchicine significantly decreased the expression of inflammasomes and pyroptosis markers in NETs-stimulated human lung microvascular endothelial cells, and inhibited the production of inflammasomes and pyroptosis in the lung tissue of EAM in vivo.
Conclusions: Colchicine can alleviate interstitial lung disease in EAM mice by inhibiting NETs formation, inflammasome activation and endothelial cell pyroptosis. These findings provide a basis for targeting NETs in the treatment of myositis-associated interstitial lung disease.
Tuberculosis of TMJ presenting as preauricular swelling – A rare case report
Authors: Lata Jeevan , Gupta Pallavi , Pansotra Neetu , Gowda Sharad
Published: March 2024

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease affecting multiple organs commonly caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can present as either its primary form or in secondary forms. Primary TB is mostly pulmonary, but it may occur in skin, abdomen, joints, lymph nodes, meninges and central nervous system. Maxillofacial manifestations of tuberculosis form nearly 10% of all extrapulmonary manifestations of the disease. Very few cases of primary TB of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) have been reported in the literature. This rarity is the reason for not considering TB in differential diagnosis of the patients presenting with TMJ pain. Owing to its non-specific clinical signs it may be misdiagnosed as osteoarthritis, osteomyelitis, or any other chronic joint disease. Detailed clinical and radiographic examination aided by histopathological and a microbiological diagnostic workup is the key for timely detection and administration of appropriate therapeutic regimens.
Investigating the impact of Socio-Demographic and Urban Built Environments on the Spatial Heterogeneity of Flu Vaccine Locations – A Case Study from New York City, United States
Authors: Chang Haoliang , Huang Siwen , Luo Shuli , Han Ahreum , XU Corey Kewei
Published: March 2024

Flu vaccine clinics play a pivotal role in fighting the spread of flu. However, limited research has focused on the influence of socio-demographic and urban built environments on the spatial heterogeneity of flu vaccine locations. This study focuses on the spatial inequity of flu vaccine clinics in New York City. Firstly, Global Moran’s I index was utilized to test the statistical significance of the spatial heterogeneity of flu vaccine locations. Next, ordinary least squares regression, a spatial lagged endogenous model, and two geographically weighted regression models were conducted to uncover the associations between the number of flu vaccine locations and the socio-demographic and urban built environments. We observed significant spatial heterogeneity regarding the spatial distribution of all flu vaccine locations and clinics offering flu vaccines for children. Population distribution and per capita income were positively associated with the number of flu vaccine locations and clinics offering flu vaccines for children. Compared to all the flu vaccine locations associated with regions offering greater health services, the clinics that offered flu vaccines for children were placed in areas with more numerous residential communities. Current findings indicate that socio-demographics and the urban built environment have distinct influences on the number of flu vaccine clinics in different city regions. These findings provide the health authorities with valuable insights into the socio-demographic and urban characteristics associated with the inequity of flu vaccine clinics and may enhance preparedness for future influenza pandemics.
Mycobacterium marinum MMAR_0267-regulated copper utilization facilitates bacterial escape from phagolysosome
Authors: xu Junqi , Ma Shaying , Huang Yu , Zhang Qiao , huang lingxi , xu xianghong , Suleiman Ismail , li peibo , Wang ZhiJian , Xie Jianping
Published: March 2024

The host limits Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) by restricting copper access. This research investigates how Mtb escapes copper stress. The membrane protein encoded by Mtb Rv0102, when its homolog in M. smegmatis (MSMEG_4702) was knocked out, resulted in a fourfold decrease in intracellular copper levels and enhanced tolerance to elevated extracellular copper concentrations. Similarly, knockout mutants of its homolog in M. marinum (MMAR_0267) showed increased virulence in zebrafish and higher bacterial load within macrophages. In THP-1 cells infected with MMAR_0267 deletion mutants, the intracellular survival of the mutants increased, accompanied by reduced THP-1 apoptosis. Cu deficiency down-regulated the transcriptional level of the M. marinum virulence factor CFP-10, dampened macrophage STING cytosolic signaling, resulting in decreased IFN-β production and cell apoptosis. In conclusion, these findings highlight the significant impact of copper on the survival and reproduction of mycobacteria, underscoring the importance of studying mycobacterial adaptation mechanisms in copper-rich environments.
The putative proton-coupled organic cation antiporter is involved in uptake of triptans into human brain capillary endothelial cells
Authors: Svane Nana , Pedersen Alberte Bay Villekjaer , Rodenberg Anne , Ozgür Burak , Saaby Lasse , Bundgaard Christoffer , Kristensen Mie , Tfelt-Hansen Peer , Brodin Birger
Published: March 2024

Background
Triptans are anti-migraine drugs with a potential central site of action. However, it is not known to what extent triptans cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The aim of this study was therefore to determine if triptans pass the brain capillary endothelium and investigate the possible underlying mechanisms with focus on the involvement of the putative proton-coupled organic cation (H+/OC) antiporter. Additionally, we evaluated whether triptans interacted with the efflux transporter, P-glycoprotein (P-gp).
Methods
We investigated the cellular uptake characteristics of the prototypical H+/OC antiporter substrates, pyrilamine and oxycodone, and seven different triptans in the human brain microvascular endothelial cell line, hCMEC/D3. Triptan interactions with P-gp were studied using the IPEC-J2 MDR1 cell line. Lastly, in vivo neuropharmacokinetic assessment of the unbound brain-to-plasma disposition of eletriptan was conducted in wild type and mdr1a/1b knockout mice.
Results
We demonstrated that most triptans were able to inhibit uptake of the H+/OC antiporter substrate, pyrilamine, with eletriptan emerging as the strongest inhibitor. Eletriptan, almotriptan, and sumatriptan exhibited a pH-dependent uptake into hCMEC/D3 cells. Eletriptan demonstrated saturable uptake kinetics with an apparent Km of 89 ± 38 µM and a Jmax of 2.2 ± 0.7 nmol·min− 1·mg protein− 1 (n = 3). Bidirectional transport experiments across IPEC-J2 MDR1 monolayers showed that eletriptan is transported by P-gp, thus indicating that eletriptan is both a substrate of the H+/OC antiporter and P-gp. This was further confirmed in vivo, where the unbound brain-to-unbound plasma concentration ratio (Kp,uu) was 0.04 in wild type mice while the ratio rose to 1.32 in mdr1a/1b knockout mice.
Conclusions
We have demonstrated that the triptan family of compounds possesses affinity for the H+/OC antiporter proposing that the putative H+/OC antiporter plays a role in the BBB transport of triptans, particularly eletriptan. Our in vivo studies indicate that eletriptan is subjected to simultaneous brain uptake and efflux, possibly facilitated by the putative H+/OC antiporter and P-gp, respectively. Our findings offer novel insights into the potential central site of action involved in migraine treatment with triptans and highlight the significance of potential transporter related drug-drug interactions.
How much would Huey Long's Share Our Wealth Plan have lowered inequality?
Authors: Mathy Gabriel
Published: March 2024

Huey Long proposed a radical plan for wealth and income distribution, called the “Share Our Wealth” Plan. This was intended to end the Great Depression by imposing 100% taxes on income and wealth above a cap and to use that revenue to provide for a guaranteed minimum income and wealth, among other policies. I estimate the impact of these policies had they been implemented in a counterfactual United States of 1934. The largest impact on inequality comes from the cap on wealth, which makes the wealth of the very rich both lower and perfectly equal. However, wealth and income ceilings do nothing to reduce poverty or to improve the condition of the non-rich. Minimum income and wealth floors reduce inequality much less, but are much more effective at reducing poverty. However, the minimum income and wealth policies would require significant revenues to implement, which could not be funded by maximum income or wealth caps, which would raise little revenue.
JEL Codes: D31, D63, H23
The use of technology by seniors with neurocognitive disorders in long-term care: A scoping review
Authors: Hardy Marie-Soleil , Fanaki Chaimaa , Savoie Camille
Published: March 2024

Background To investigate and describe the current state of knowledge about the use of technology with seniors with neurocognitive disorders in long-term care to foster interactions, wellness, and stimulation. Methods Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL Plus); MEDLINE; PsycINFO; Embase and Web of Science were searched in eligible literature, with no limit of time, to describe the current use of technology by seniors with neurocognitive disorders in long-term care. All types of literature were considered except for theses, editorial, social media. Review Methods: This scoping review was built around the recommendations of Peters et al. (2020 version). Three researchers collaborated on the selection of articles and independently reviewed the papers, based on the eligibility criteria and review questions. Results The search yielded 3,605 studies, of which 39 were included. Results are presented in an overall description of the included studies encompassing study designs, population characteristics, and the current state of knowledge about different types of technologies used in long term care and the main findings on their use, objectives, and potential effects. Conclusion The study highlights different types and potential benefits of technology for long-term care residents with neurocognitive disorders, emphasizing the crucial need for additional research to refine interventions and their use.
Medical Tattooing as a Complementary Cosmetic Intervention to Reduce Body-Image Distress and Mental Health Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Proctor Miranda , Cassisi Jeffrey E. , Dvorak Robert , Decker Veronica
Published: March 2024

Purpose
A review of the literature revealed a high incidence of body-image distress among breast cancer survivors who had surgery. This study examined medical tattooing as a complementary intervention to mitigate body-image distress and poor mental health outcomes among breast cancer survivors following surgery.
Methods
We examined 330 responses collected through a nationwide online survey, pursuing two main objectives. First, we investigated body-image distress, depression and anxiety symptoms, and perceived stress in survivors who underwent breast cancer surgery, comparing those with medical tattooing (n = 89) and those without (n = 226). Second, we assessed the influence of the participant's surgery type on body-image distress, depression and anxiety symptoms, and perceived stress. Additionally, we evaluated whether individual factors, such as appearance investment, satisfaction with decision, and cosmetic expectation discrepancy, predicted the participant’s body-image distress.
Results
Findings suggest that participants with medical tattoos reported significantly lower body-image distress, depression and anxiety symptoms, and perceived stress compared to those without medical tattoos. The participant’s surgery type did not significantly predict body-image distress, depression or anxiety symptoms, or perceived stress. However, participants who reported greater appearance investment endorsed higher body-image distress. Participants who reported higher satisfaction with their treatment decisions and lower cosmetic expectation discrepancy endorsed lower body-image distress.
Conclusion
Medical tattooing can be a valuable tool in improving body-image distress and mental health. Empirical studies supporting the mental health benefits of medical tattooing among survivors is crucial to standardize insurance coverage and promote its inclusion as a complementary intervention across insurance providers nationwide. This complementary intervention should be considered using a patient-centered approach that aligns with the patient’s values and preferences.
The Effect of Teachers Beliefs and Experiences on the Use of ChatGPT in STEM Disciplines
Authors: Beege Maik , Hug Christopher , Nerb Josef
Published: March 2024

The rapid development of AI in the recent years has triggered numerous discussions in the education sector. AI offers numerous opportunities, but also challenges, especially for teachers. This study therefore examines the extent to which STEM teachers assess the benefits but also the risks of ChatGPT and how this influences the future use of AI in an educational context. As part of a questionnaire study, the current and future use of ChatGPT and various teacher variables were recorded and relationships between the variables were explored using a path model. In general, AI is still used relatively rarely, but future usage expectations are high compared to current usage. Results further revealed that perceived competence and benefits of ChatGPT have a positive influence on the use and intention to use it. Perceived risks and concerns have no significant influence on the usefulness of ChatGPT in the classroom, indicating that STEM teachers use AI in the classroom despite potential concerns and perceived risks. Additionally, perceived benefits and risks are negatively associated with each other, indicating that teachers rely on an affect heuristic when judging the usefulness of AI technology in the classroom.
Alternative culture medium for Nannochloropsis oculata mass culture
Authors: Neves Fábio de Farias , Sales Rafael de Oliveira Jaime , Ikeda Isadora Kaniak , Santos Ana Carolina de Souza , Duarte Ana Flavia Celso , Martins Ricardo Camilo , Schneider Rosana de Cássia de Souza , Willemann Daniel Pedro
Published: March 2024

Microalgae of the genus Nannochloropsis are highly valued in aquaculture due to their protein, fatty acid, and carotenoid content, offering potential as additives or substitutes for fish meal or oil. However, large-scale production encounters challenges, particularly concerning the culture medium. Thus, this study aimed to assess the impact of substituting artificial sea salt with common salt and standard medium with agricultural fertilizer in Nannochloropsis oculata production. Initially, the effects of reduced salinity were evaluated at salinities of 30, 10, 5, and 1 ups, followed by an examination of the effects of replacing artificial sea salt with common salt and using agricultural fertilizer on microalgae growth. Salinities of 30 and 10 exhibited the highest growth parameters. The salt source had no significant impact on culture growth, while the agricultural fertilizer enhanced it. Common salt increased the concentration of eicosapentaenoic acid compared to artificial sea salt, although the total lipid concentration was higher in microalgae cultured with artificial sea salt. The developed medium was validated through semi-continuous cultures in 100 L flat vertical bags, showing to be an economically viable alternative without hindering N. oculata growth.
Concurrent Validity and Responsiveness of Clinical Upper Limb Outcome Measures and Sensor-based Arm Use Metrics within the First Year after Stroke: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Pohl Johannes , Verheyden Geert , Held Jeremia Philipp Oskar , Luft Andreas , Awai-Easthope Chris , Veerbeek Janne Marieke
Published: March 2024

Background: Concurrent validity and responsiveness of upper limb outcome measures are essential to interpret motor recovery poststroke. Evaluating the associations between clinical upper limb measures and sensor-based arm use (AU) fosters a comprehensive understanding of motor recovery. Defining sensor-based AU metrics for intentional upper limb movements could be crucial in mitigating bias arising from walking-related activities. Here, we investigate the measurement properties of a comprehensive set of clinical measures and sensor-based AU metrics when gait and non-functional upper limb movements are excluded.
Methods: In a prospective, longitudinal cohort study, individuals with motor impairment were measured at days 3±2 (D3), 10±2 (D10), 28±4 (D28), 90±7 (D90), and 365±14 (D365) after their first stroke. Upper limb function, activity capacity, and performance were assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Action Research Arm Test, Box & Block Test, and the 14-item Motor Activity Log. For three days, individuals wore five movement sensors (trunk, wrists, and ankles). Thirteen AU metrics were computed based on functional movements during non-walking periods. Concurrent validity across clinical and AU metrics was determined by Spearman's rank correlations for each time point. Criterion-based responsiveness was examined by correlating patient-reported Global Rating of Perceived Change (GRPC) scores (1-7) and observed change in upper limb outcome. Optimal cut-off values for minimal important change (MIC) were estimated by ROC curve analysis.
Results: Ninety-three individuals participated. At D3 and D10, correlations between clinical measures and AU-metrics presented variability (range rs 0.44-0.90, p<0.01). All time points following showed strong positive associations between capacity measures and affected AU metrics (range rs 0.73-0.94, p<0.01), whereas unilateral nonaffected AU metrics had low-to-high negative associations (range rs 0.48-0.77). Responsiveness across outcomes was highest between D10-D28 within moderate-to-strong relations between GRPC and clinical measures (rs range 0.60-0.73, p<0.01), whereas relations were weaker for AU-metrics (rs range 0.28-0.43, p<0.05).
Eight MIC values were estimated for clinical measures and nine for AU metrics, showing moderate to good accuracy (66-87%).
Conclusions: We present reference data on concurrent validity and responsiveness of clinical upper limb measures and specified AU metrics within the first year poststroke. Estimated MIC values can be used as a benchmark for clinical stroke rehabilitation.
Trial registration: This trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov; registration number NCT03522519.
Comparison of the ability of different quantitative indices in 123I-FP-CIT single-photon emission computed tomography to differentiate dopaminergic neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Sato Tomohiro , Sawai Setsu , Shimada Naokazu
Published: March 2024

Purpose By imaging dopamine transporter (DAT) uptake in the striatum, 123I-2β-carbomethoxy-3β-(4-iodophenyl)-N-(3-fluoropropyl) nortropane (123I-FP-CIT) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can differentiate dopaminergic neurodegenerative disease (dNDD) and non-dNDD, which differ in pathophysiology and clinical management. dNDD can be diagnosed by visual judgment and/or objective assessment using quantitative indices. Our aim was to compare and validate the diagnostic abilities of various 123I-FP-CIT SPECT quantitative indices for dNDD.
Methods Distribution volume ratio (DVR) and binding ratio (BR), measures of DAT uptake capacity, were measured by analyzing clinical 123I-FP-CIT SPECT images of 29 patients with dNDD, including dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease, and 18 patients with non-dNDD, using Montreal Neurological Institute space-based anatomical standardization and an atlas template, which utilizes statistical parametric mapping. Additionally, we computed the specific binding ratio (SBR) based on Bolt’s method and the maximum and mean standardized uptake values (SUVmax and SUVmean, respectively).
Results The caudate-to-occipital lobe, putamen-to-occipital lobe, and striatum-to-occipital lobe ratios (COR, POR, and SOR, respectively) on DVR and POR and SOR on BR were significantly lower in dNDD than in non-dNDD, with areas under the receiver operating curve (AUCs) of 0.941–0.960, showing high diagnostic accuracy for dNDD. However, the AUC of COR on BR was 0.839, indicating lower diagnostic performance. SBR had an AUC of 0.921, while SUVmax and SUVmean had AUCs of 0.906 and 0.900, respectively. Although striatal asymmetry on both DVR and BR exhibited AUCs of 0.728 and 0.734 and asymmetry on SBR showed an AUC of 0.757, the ratio-based DAT quantitative indices were superior. There were strong positive correlations of DVR with BR, DVR with SBR or SUVmax, BR with SBR or SUVmax, and SBR with SUVmax.
Conclusions COR, POR, and SOR on DVR and POR and SOR on BR were the most useful DAT quantitative indices. These indices can be compared with SBR and SUV, suggesting that comprehensive evaluation improves the diagnostic accuracy of dNDD.
Your Profile Reveals Your Traits in Talent Market: An Enhanced Person-Job Fit Representation Learning
Authors: Jian Ling , Rao Chongzhi , Gu Xiao
Published: March 2024

Person-job fit lies at the heart of online recruitment, measuring the compatibility between job seekers and vacancies. Current researchers mainly focus on job-resume matching between job requirements and work experiences, presenting two notable limitations. Free text representation is constrained by word-level polysemy and sentence-level anisotropy. Also, overreliance on final representations hampers the exploration of inter-feature relationships. Towards this end, we proposed a novel Attentive Person-Job Fit Multifaceted feature Fusion model (APJFMF), aiming at obtaining more precise and comprehensive interactive person-job fit feature representations. The main contributions are: (1) Introduction of a method for multifaceted feature extraction and fusion from multi-source heterogeneous person-job data; (2) Enhanced the person-job free text representations through unsupervised fine-tuning of BERT; (3) Investigated global feature interactions by integrating diverse attention mechanisms. Extensive experiments on a real-world recruitment dataset confirmed the effectiveness of APJFMF and its individual components. The code is released at https://github.com/raochongzhi/APJFMF.
A Smooth Transition: Assessing Transition Readiness In Adolescents with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Khan Shahzaib , Tuchman David , Imran Alizeh , Lakdawala Fatima Mustafa , Mansoor Sana , Abraham Joseph
Published: March 2024

Background: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an early onset condition that affects individuals of all ages. Approximately 15%-25% of patients present before the age of 20 years, with peak onset occurring during adolescence.
Aims: To evaluate transition readiness among adolescents diagnosed with IBD and identify barriers to transition.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients with IBD aged 12-21 years. Patients were stratified by age into three groups: A (12-14 years), B (14-17 years), and C (17+ years). Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire which assessed patient knowledge in three areas of transition: ‘Taking Charge’, ‘My Health', and ‘Using Health Care’. Fisher's Exact and Chi-Square tests were used to evaluate the associations between age and transition readiness.
Results: A total of 127 participants (68 males and 59 females) with a mean age of 16.14 years were included. Transition readiness increased with age from 60.7% in Group A to 63.2% and 77.9% in Groups B and C, respectively (p<0.001). Patient confidence and the importance of transition increased with age, with means of 5.51, 6.17, and 6.94 in Groups A, B and C (p=0.02). Patient-reported knowledge of their health condition was > 70%, with no statistical differences between the groups (p=0.65). Patient knowledge regarding ‘Using Health Care’ increased from 52% in Group A to 79% in Group C (p<0.001). The greatest barriers to transitioning were carrying health information for Group A (100%) and obtaining provider referrals for Groups B (75%) and C (51%).
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that transition readiness increases with age in adolescents with IBD.
Prognostic value of the “dynamic” second revision of the international staging system (R2- ISS) in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing anti-CD38 antibody, carfilzomib, and dexamethasone therapy
Authors: Kikuchi Taku , Tsukada Nobuhiro , Kunisada Kodai , Matsumoto Chiaki , Nomura-Yogo Moe , Oda Yuki , Sato Kota , Takei Tomomi , Ogura Mizuki , Abe Yu , Suzuki Kenshi , Hosaya Osamu , Ishida Tadao
Published: March 2024

Recently, the second revision of the International Staging System (R2-ISS) has emerged as a prognostic tool for multiple myeloma (MM) and is known to be useful for prognostication at the time of diagnosis. Treatment outcomes for MM have significantly improved with the introduction of novel agents; however, eventual relapses nevertheless occur frequently, leading to refractory disease. Clonal evolution during relapse often results in high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities (HRCAs). Hence, a patient’s disease risk may change during their treatment course. We retrospectively analyzed whether R2-ISS influenced prognosis at treatment initiation in patients receiving anti-CD38 antibody, carfilzomib, and dexamethasone (Kd) treatments. HRCAs were examined from diagnosis to treatment initiation and considered positive if detected once. R2-ISS was recalculated at treatment initiation and defined as dynamic R2-ISS. Data from 60 patients who underwent the defined treatments were analyzed. The median observation period was 13.0 months, with a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 20.7 months. Median overall survival (OS) was not reached. Dynamic R2-ISS significantly stratified prognoses for both PFS and OS (P = 0.00011 and 0.023, respectively). The median PFS for patients with dynamic R2-ISS IV was 4.4 months, and the median OS was 14.6 months, indicating extremely poor outcomes. Multivariate analysis considering disease progression at treatment initiation, triple-class refractory status, and dynamic R2-ISS showed that only R2-ISS significantly affected both PFS and OS (P = 0.0041 and 0.019, respectively). Dynamic R2-ISS therefore shows potential as a prognostic tool in patients with MM who are treated via anti-CD38 antibody + Kd therapy.
Development of Statistical Models for Predicting Solar Radiation: A Case Study in Guwahati City, India
Authors: Kalita Pankaj , Singh Pushpendra , Baruah Debarshi , Jain Shubham , Jain Siddhant
Published: March 2024

Environmental degradation and gradual depletion of fossil fuels have dramatically enhanced necessity to shift towards an alternative source of energy. In response to this, utilisation solar energy has emerged as a promising solution with various advantages over conventional sources of energy which are diminishing and polluting. Historically, correlations have been made and used to assess the solar potential of a location as measurement of solar radiation at every location is not yet viable due to the high cost of instruments and geographical constraints. Hence, statistical models for predicting solar radiations become very useful. In this work, Angstrom-Prescott model and its modified forms for the Guwahati city, India were developed to estimate the monthly global solar radiation. Error estimation tools like mean bias error (MBE), root mean square (RMSE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and R2 were used to indicate the model performance. All the error indicators showed very low error values for the newly developed models compared to few of the already existing models. A R2 value of 0.96 was achieved for the linear Angstrom-Prescott equation. Statistical analysis showed that the newly developed model is suitable to predict monthly global solar radiation for the Guwahati city.
Iatrogenic Dislocation of the Temporomandibular Joint due to General Anaesthesia
Authors: Alam Munir
Published: March 2024

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a modified hinge joint with the condyle of the mandible resting in a shallow glenoid fossa, predisposing it to be easily dislocated without extreme force. Anterior dislocation of TMJ is the most common type of dislocation. It can occur due to excessive opening of the mouth, trauma, or seizures. Iatrogenic cases of TMJ dislocation have been reported with 5% incidence during anaesthesia induction, intubation, and upper endoscopic procedures(1,2). This is a case report of a post-intubation complication of TMJ dislocation.
Consolidation process of uncemented backfill slurry in a mine stope considering hydro-geotechnical properties of rockmass in adjacent stopes
Authors: Liu Guangsheng , Ma Qinghai , Yang Xiaocong , Guo Lijie , Yuan Xuehao , Li Li
Published: March 2024

A reasonable assessment on pore water pressure (PWP) and effective stresses of backfill slurry during consolidation process is critical to ensure a secure and economic backfilling in mine stopes. This task can be accomplished by analytical or numerical simulations, but most of the previous simulations did not take into account the hydro-geotechnical properties of rockmass in adjacent stopes, which was mainly simplified to an impervious boundary. This treatment may not be representative of the field conditions in underground mine stopes because of the presence of geological joints and/or mining induced cracks in surrounding rockmass that serve as seepage paths for pore water discharged from the filled slurry. In this paper, numerical modeling was conducted with FLAC3D to investigate consolidation process of uncemented backfill slurry in a vertical stope considering the surrounding rockmass with different permeability, initial saturation, porosity, and the rockmass width. The results show that the PWP and effective stresses of backfill slurry in a mine stope considering adjacent rockmass can be very different with numerical outcomes by simplifying the rockmass as impermeable or permeable boundaries assumed in previous studies. For the same backfill slurry in mine stopes with different drainage conditions along side walls, the peaks of the PWP and effective stress differ by a factor of three to five for each consolidation process. This would make the evaluations on backfill slurry consolidation either too conservative, with impermeable side walls, or too aggressive, with free drainage side walls, ignoring the actual rockmass hydro-geotechnical parameters. Different hydro-geotechnical properties of the rockmass have different impacts on the evolutions of the PWP and effective stresses of the consolidating backfill slurry. However, when the hydraulic conductivity of the surrounding rockmass is lower than 10− 8 m/s, the simulated PWP and effective stresses for the backfill slurry will be comparable to the numerical models that simplify the rockmass to a watertight boundary. Furthermore, the influences of different hydro-geotechnical properties of adjacent rockmass on the lateral earth pressure coefficient of consolidated backfill were also discussed. In addition to the validations of simulated PWP and stresses against the analytical results with Gibson model and an arching model respectively, the numerical results were compared with the previous published in-situ monitoring benchmarks to validate the consolidation process simulated by FLAC3D here.
Young adult’s perceptions of the role of trust in the effect of self-reliance on help-seeking for mental health problems
Authors: Meadley Abigail , Rickwood Debra J , Ishikawa Amelia
Published: March 2024

Purpose Many young people are reluctant to seek support for mental health concerns and a preference for self-reliance has been identified as a key barrier. Yet, the conceptualisation and measurement of self-reliance is not well understood. This study examines the meaning of self-reliance as it affects young people’s help-seeking, with an emphasis on the role of trust (both in self and in others).Method 30 Australian young people aged 18–25 years were interviewed. Reflexive thematic analysis, using both inductive and deductive approaches, was used to construct themes about the relationships between trust, self-reliance, and help-seeking for young people.Results Participants identified that both self-reliance and help-seeking exist on a continuum from insufficient self-reliance to extreme self-reliance and excessive help-seeking to unwillingness to seek help. Trust was a key component of self-reliance, and a balance between trust in self and trust in others is necessary for self-reliance to be adaptive and appropriate help-seeking to occur. To maintain this balance, young people felt that a level of self-awareness was necessary.Conclusion A high level of trust in self is considered to increase self-reliance, whereas a high level of trust in others increases help-seeking behaviours. Understanding the role of trust in self-reliance informs developmentally appropriate ways to address self-reliance as a barrier to mental health help-seeking for young people. [216 words]
Perspectives of female sex workers on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery in Uganda: A qualitative study
Authors: Mpirirwe Ruth , Mujugira Andrew , Walusaga Happy , Ayebare Florence , Musanje Khamisi , Ndugga Patricia , Muhumuza Christine , Nangendo Joan , Semitala Fred C. , Kyambadde Peter , Kalyango Joan , Kiragga Agnes , Karamagi Charles , Kamya Moses R. , Armstrong-Hough Mari , Katahoire Anne R.
Published: March 2024

Background
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is underutilized by cisgender female sex workers (FSW) despite its proven effectiveness. This study aimed to understand the experiences of FSW with PrEP services in Uganda to inform HIV programming for this key population.
Methods
We conducted qualitative interviews with 19 FSW between June and July 2022 at the Most at Risk Populations Initiative clinic, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, to explore experiences with accessing PrEP. In-depth interviews explored: (1) descriptions of where and how PrEP was obtained; (2) perspectives on current approaches for accessing PrEP; and (3) individual encounters with PrEP services. Data were analyzed through inductive thematic analysis.
Results
Three key themes emerged for FSW perspectives on PrEP service delivery. FSW highlighted the positive impact of a welcoming clinic environment, which motivated FSW to initiate PrEP and fostered a sense of connectedness within their community. They also reported feeling accepted, secure, and free from prejudice when accessing PrEP through facility-based services. The second explores the obstacles faced by FSW, such as lengthy wait times at clinics, inadequate provider support, and lack of sensitivity training which hindered their access to PrEP. The third sheds light on how HIV-related stigma negatively impacted the delivery of community-based PrEP for FSW. While community-based distribution offered convenience and helped mitigate stigma, clinic-based care provided greater anonymity and was perceived as offering higher-quality care. Overall, FSWs emphasized the critical role of friendly healthcare providers, social support, and non-stigmatizing environments in promoting successful utilization of PrEP.
Conclusion
The study findings offer insights that can support HIV programs in optimizing PrEP delivery for FSW. Establishing easily accessible drug pick-up locations, prioritizing privacy, addressing and improving health workers' attitudes, and providing regular reminders could enhance PrEP access for FSW and decrease HIV acquisition.
Sharp bounds on Hankel determinants for Sakaguchi classes
Authors: Sun Yong , Kuang Wei-Ping
Published: March 2024

We determine the sharp bounds of the second Hankel determinants of logarithmic coefficients for starlike and convex functions with respect to symmetric points, and the sharp bounds of the third Hankel determinants for convex functions with respect to symmetric points.
Date: March 17, 2024.
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification. 30C55, 30C45.
Outcomes of additional surgery after endoscopic submucosal dissection with endoscopic curability C-2 for early gastric cancer in elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years
Authors: Liu Jinyan , Wang Zhenyu , Xiang Ying , Wang Yanan , Tang Dehua , Yuan Ying , Zou Xiaoping , Wang Lei , Xu Guifang
Published: March 2024

Background: Patients with early gastric cancer whose pathological evaluation was eCuraC-2 after ESD had a high risk of lymph node metastasis and were recommended for further surgery. But previous studies showed that only 5.7-8.2% of patients with non-curative resection actually have lymph node metastasis. For elderly patients, whether additional surgery is beneficial needs to be further explored due to their poor physical fitness.
Objectives: To compare the long-term outcome of additional surgery and follow-up in elderly patients with early gastric cancer and a pathological evaluation of eCuraC-2 after ESD, and analyze the factors affecting their survival.
Design: A retrospective cohort study.
Methods: The data of the patients at our center from April 2014 to September 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the follow-up group and additional surgery group. Propensity score matching was used to control for confounding factors between the two groups. The prognosis of the two groups was compared and the factors affecting survival were analyzed.
Results: The follow-up group was older on average and had a higher incidence of ulcers, larger tumor diameters, and less involvement of SM2/SM3 compared to the additional surgery group. After propensity matching, there was no significant difference in the long-term outcomes between the two groups. Univariate and multivariate analysis revealed that the CCI (Charlson Comorbidity Index), PNI (prognostic nutritional index), and lymphovascular invasion were independent factors affecting OS (overall survival) and lymphovascular invasion was an independent factor affecting DSS (disease-specific survival) in elderly patients with early gastric cancer who underwent ESD and had a pathological evaluation of eCuraC-2.
Conclusion: Elderly patients with early gastric cancer and a pathological evaluation of eCuraC-2 after ESD can be safely monitored with caution. Additionally, CCI, PNI, and lymphovascular invasion can be used to predict their long-term outcomes.