bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of information literacy and their predictors among emergency department nurses: a latent profile analysis based on the person-context interaction theory
Authors: Wu Chao , He Chunyan , Yan Jiaran , Du Juan , He Shizhe , Ji Zhaohua , Wang Yifei , Lang Hongjuan
Published: January 2024

Background

With the development of information technology, information has been an important resource in clinical medicine, particularly within the emergency department. Given its role in patient rescue, the emergency department demands a high level of information literacy from nurses to effectively collect, analyze, and apply information due to the urgency and complexity of emergency nursing work. Although prior studies have investigated the information literacy of nursing staff, little has been undertaken in examining the patterns of information literacy and their predictors among emergency department nurses.

Aim

To clarify the subtypes of information literacy among nurses in the emergency department and explore the factors affecting profile membership.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among a convenience sample of 2490 nurses in the emergency department from April to June 2023. The clinical nurses completed the online self-report questionnaires including the general demographic questionnaire, information literacy scale, self-efficacy scale and social support scale. Data analyses involved the latent profile analysis, variance analysis, Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Four latent profiles were identified: ‘Low information literacy (Class 1)’, ‘Moderate information knowledge (Class 2)’, ‘High information knowledge and support (Class 3)’ and ‘High information literacy (Class 4)’, accounting for 20.14%, 42.11%, 23.36% and 14.39%, respectively. Each profile displayed unique characteristics representative of different information literacy patterns. Age, years of work, place of residence, hospital grade, title, professional knowledge, using databases, reading medical literature, participating in information literacy training, self-efficacy, and social support significantly predicted information literacy profile membership.

Conclusions

Information literacy exhibits different classification features among emergency department nurses, and over half of the nurses surveyed were at the lower or middle level. Identifying sociodemographic and internal-external predictors of profile membership can aid in developing targeted interventions tailored to the needs of emergency department nurses. Nursing managers should actively pay attention to nurses with low information literacy and provide support to improve their information literacy level.

Relevance to clinical practice

Insights from the current study of the latent profile analysis are beneficial to hospital managers in understanding the different types of emergency department nurses’ information literacy. These insights serve as a reference for managers to enhance nurses’ information literacy levels.
A step closer towards achieving universal health coverage: the role of gender in enrolment in health insurance in India
Authors: Ziegler Susanne , Srivastava Swati , Parmar Divya , Basu Sharmishtha , Jain Nishant , De Allegri Manuela
Published: January 2024

Background

There is limited understanding of how universal health coverage (UHC) schemes such as publicly-funded health insurance (PFHI) benefit women as compared to men. Many of these schemes are gender-neutral in design but given the existing gender inequalities in many societies, their benefits may not be similar for women and men. We contribute to the evidence by conducting a gender analysis of the enrolment of individuals and households in India’s national PFHI scheme, Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY).

Methods

We used data from a cross-sectional household survey on RSBY eligible families across eight Indian states and studied different outcome variables at both the individual and household levels to compare enrolment among women and men. We applied multivariate logistic regressions and controlled for several demographic and socio-economic characteristics.

Results

At the individual level, the analysis revealed no substantial differences in enrolment between men and women. Only in one state were women more likely to be enrolled in RSBY than men (AOR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.32-5.38), and this pattern was linked to their status in the household. At the household level, analyses revealed that female-headed households had a higher likelihood to be enrolled (AOR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.14-1.62), but not necessarily to have all household members enrolled.

Conclusion

Findings are surprising in light of India’s well-documented gender bias, permeating different aspects of society, and are most likely an indication of success in designing a policy that did not favour participation by men above women, by mandating spouse enrolment and securing enrolment of up to five family members. Higher enrolment rates among female-headed households are also an indication of women’s preferences for investments in health, in the context of a conducive policy environment. Further analyses are needed to examine if once enrolled, women also make use of the scheme benefits to the same extent as men do. India is called upon to capitalise on the achievements of RSBY and apply them to newer schemes such as PM-JAY.
Truncated FRMD7 proteins in congenital Nystagmus: novel frameshift mutations and proteasomal pathway implications
Authors: Su Yuqing , Zhang Juntao , Gao Jiahui , Ding Guoqing , Jiang Heng , Liu Yang , Li Yulei , Yang Guohua
Published: January 2024

Idiopathic congenital nystagmus (ICN) manifests as involuntary and periodic eye movements. To identify the genetic defect associated with X-linked ICN, Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) was conducted in two affected families. We identified two frameshift mutations in FRMD7, c.1492dupT/p.(Y498Lfs*15) and c.1616delG/p.(R539Kfs*2). Plasmids harboring the mutated genes and qPCR analysis revealed mRNA stability, evading degradation via the NMD pathway, and corroborated truncated protein production via Western-blot analysis. Notably, both truncated proteins were degraded through the proteasomal (ubiquitination) pathway, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues targeting this pathway for similar mutations. Moreover, we conducted a comprehensive analysis, summarizing 140 mutations within the FRMD7 gene. Our findings highlight the FERM and FA structural domains as mutation-prone regions. Interestingly, exons 9 and 12 are the most mutated regions, but 90% (28/31) mutations in exon 9 are missense while 84% (21/25) mutations in exon 12 are frameshift. A predominant occurrence of shift code mutations was observed in exons 11 and 12, possibly associated with the localization of premature termination codons (PTCs), leading to the generation of deleterious truncated proteins. Additionally, our conjecture suggests that the loss of FRMD7 protein function might not solely drive pathology; rather, the emergence of aberrant protein function could be pivotal in nystagmus etiology. We propose a dependence of FRMD7 protein normal function primarily on its anterior domain. Future investigations are warranted to validate this hypothesis.
Bimodal DNA self-origami material with nucleic acid function enhancement
Authors: He Songlin , Deng Haotian , Li Peiqi , Tian Qinyu , Yang Yongkang , Hu Jingjing , Li Hao , Zhao Tianyuan , Ling Hongkun , Liu Yin , Liu Shuyun , Guo Quanyi
Published: January 2024

Background

The design of DNA materials with specific nanostructures for biomedical tissue engineering applications remains a challenge. High-dimensional DNA nanomaterials are difficult to prepare and are unstable; moreover, their synthesis relies on heavy metal ions. Herein, we developed a bimodal DNA self-origami material with good biocompatibility and differing functions using a simple synthesis method. We simulated and characterized this material using a combination of oxDNA, freeze–fracture electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Subsequently, we optimized the synthesis procedure to fix the morphology of this material.

Results

Using molecular dynamics simulation, we found that the bimodal DNA self-origami material exhibited properties of spontaneous stretching and curling and could be fixed in a single morphology via synthesis control. The application of different functional nucleic acids enabled the achievement of various biological functions, and the performance of functional nucleic acids was significantly enhanced in the material. Consequently, leveraging the various functional nucleic acids enhanced by this material will facilitate the attainment of diverse biological functions.

Conclusion

The developed design can comprehensively reveal the morphology and dynamics of DNA materials. We thus report a novel strategy for the construction of high-dimensional DNA materials and the application of functional nucleic acid–enhancing materials.

Graphical Abstract
Comparative proteomics reveals different protein expression in platelets in patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis
Authors: Haji Begli Nima , Freund Cora , Weiss Karl-Heinz , Gotthardt Daniel , Wannhoff Andreas
Published: January 2024

Background

The role of platelets in disease progression as well as the function of platelets as part of the haemostatic and immunological system in patients with liver cirrhosis is only incompletely understood. This is partly due to difficulties in assessing platelet function. Proteome analyses of platelets have been used to further investigate the role of platelets in other diseases.

Aim

To assess possible changes in the platelet proteome during different stages of alcohol induced liver cirrhosis compared to healthy donors.

Patients and methods

A 45 ml blood sample was drawn from 18 participants aged 18–80 years evenly divided into three groups of healthy donors, patients with less advanced alcohol induced liver cirrhosis (Child-Pugh < 7) and patients with advanced liver cirrhosis (Child-Pugh > 10). The blood was processed to isolate platelets and perform subsequent two-dimensional gel-electrophoresis using a SYPRO™ Ruby dye. After computational analysation significantly in- or decreased protein spots (defined as a two-fold abundance change between different study cohorts and ANOVA < 0.05) were identified via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS) and searching against human protein databases.

Results

The comparative analysis identified four platelet proteins with progressively decreased protein expression in patients with liver cirrhosis. More specifically Ras-related protein Rab-7a (Rab-7a), Ran-specific binding protein 1 (RANBP1), Rho GDP-dissociation inhibitor 1 (RhoGDI1), and 14–3-3 gamma.

Conclusion

There is significant change in protein expression in the platelet proteome throughout the disease progression of alcohol induced liver cirrhosis. The identified proteins are possibly involved in haemostatic and immunoregulatory function of platelets.
Impaired bisecting GlcNAc reprogrammed M1 polarization of macrophage
Authors: He Xin , Wang Bowen , Deng Wenli , Cao Jinhua , Tan Zengqi , Li Xiang , Guan Feng
Published: January 2024

The functions of macrophages are governed by distinct polarization phenotypes, which can be categorized as either anti-tumor/M1 type or pro-tumor/M2 type. Glycosylation is known to play a crucial role in various cellular processes, but its influence on macrophage polarization is not well-studied. In this study, we observed a significant decrease in bisecting GlcNAc during M0-M1 polarization, and impaired bisecting GlcNAc was found to drive M0-M1 polarization. Using a glycoproteomics strategy, we identified Lgals3bp as a specific glycoprotein carrying bisecting GlcNAc. A high level of bisecting GlcNAc modification facilitated the degradation of Lgals3bp, while a low level of bisecting GlcNAc stabilized Lgals3bp. Elevated levels of Lgals3bp promoted M1 polarization through the activation of the NF-кB pathway. Conversely, the activated NF-кB pathway significantly repressed the transcription of MGAT3, leading to reduced levels of bisecting GlcNAc modification on Lgals3bp. Overall, our study highlights the impact of glycosylation on macrophage polarization and suggests the potential of engineered macrophages via glycosylated modification.
EXO1/P53/SREBP1 axis-regulated lipid metabolism promotes prostate cancer progression
Authors: Wang Zefeng , Chao Zheng , Wang Qi , Zou Fan , Song Tianbao , Xu Lizhe , Ning Jinzhuo , Cheng Fan
Published: January 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignant tumors affecting the male genitourinary system. However, there is currently a lack of effective treatments for patients with advanced prostate cancer, which significantly impacts men’s overall health. Exonuclease 1 (EXO1), a protein with mismatch repair and recombination functions, has been found to play a vital role in various diseases. In our study, we discovered that EXO1 acts as a novel biomarker of PCa, which promotes prostate cancer progression by regulating lipid metabolism reprogramming in prostate cancer cells. Mechanistically, EXO1 promotes the expression of SREBP1 by inhibiting the P53 signaling pathway. In summary, our findings suggest that EXO1 regulated intracellular lipid reprogramming through the P53/SREBP1 axis, thus promoting PCa progression. The result could potentially lead to new insights and therapeutic targets for diagnosing and treating PCa.
Immune-related lncRNAs signature and radiomics signature predict the prognosis and immune microenvironment of glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Luan Jixin , Zhang Di , Liu Bing , Yang Aocai , Lv Kuan , Hu Pianpian , Yu Hongwei , Shmuel Amir , Zhang Chuanchen , Ma Guolin
Published: January 2024

Background

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults. This study aimed to construct immune-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) signature and radiomics signature to probe the prognosis and immune infiltration of GBM patients.

Methods

We downloaded GBM RNA-seq data and clinical information from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project database, and MRI data were obtained from The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA). Then, we conducted a cox regression analysis to establish the immune-related lncRNAs signature and radiomics signature. Afterward, we employed a gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to explore the biological processes and pathways. Besides, we used CIBERSORT to estimate the abundance of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs). Furthermore, we investigated the relationship between the immune-related lncRNAs signature, radiomics signature and immune checkpoint genes. Finally, we constructed a multifactors prognostic model and compared it with the clinical prognostic model.

Results

We identified four immune-related lncRNAs and two radiomics features, which show the ability to stratify patients into high-risk and low-risk groups with significantly different survival rates. The risk score curves and Kaplan–Meier curves confirmed that the immune-related lncRNAs signature and radiomics signature were a novel independent prognostic factor in GBM patients. The GSEA suggested that the immune-related lncRNAs signature were involved in L1 cell adhesion molecular (L1CAM) interactions and the radiomics signature were involved signaling by Robo receptors. Besides, the two signatures was associated with the infiltration of immune cells. Furthermore, they were linked with the expression of critical immune genes and could predict immunotherapy’s clinical response. Finally, the area under the curve (AUC) (0.890,0.887) and C-index (0.737,0.817) of the multifactors prognostic model were greater than those of the clinical prognostic model in both the training and validation sets, indicated significantly improved discrimination.

Conclusions

We identified the immune-related lncRNAs signature and tradiomics signature that can predict the outcomes, immune cell infiltration, and immunotherapy response in patients with GBM.
Differentiation between depression and bipolar disorder in child and adolescents by voice features
Authors: Luo Jie , Wu Yuanzhen , Liu Mengqi , Li Zhaojun , Wang Zhuo , Zheng Yi , Feng Lihui , Lu Jihua , He Fan
Published: January 2024

Objective

Major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) are serious chronic disabling mental and emotional disorders, with symptoms that often manifest atypically in children and adolescents, making diagnosis difficult without objective physiological indicators. Therefore, we aimed to objectively identify MDD and BD in children and adolescents by exploring their voiceprint features.

Methods

This study included a total of 150 participants, with 50 MDD patients, 50 BD patients, and 50 healthy controls aged between 6 and 16 years. After collecting voiceprint data, chi-square test was used to screen and extract voiceprint features specific to emotional disorders in children and adolescents. Then, selected characteristic voiceprint features were used to establish training and testing datasets with the ratio of 7:3. The performances of various machine learning and deep learning algorithms were compared using the training dataset, and the optimal algorithm was selected to classify the testing dataset and calculate the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and ROC curve.

Results

The three groups showed differences in clustering centers for various voice features such as root mean square energy, power spectral slope, low-frequency percentile energy level, high-frequency spectral slope, spectral harmonic gain, and audio signal energy level. The model of linear SVM showed the best performance in the training dataset, achieving a total accuracy of 95.6% in classifying the three groups in the testing dataset, with sensitivity of 93.3% for MDD, 100% for BD, specificity of 93.3%, AUC of 1 for BD, and AUC of 0.967 for MDD.

Conclusion

By exploring the characteristics of voice features in children and adolescents, machine learning can effectively differentiate between MDD and BD in a population, and voice features hold promise as an objective physiological indicator for the auxiliary diagnosis of mood disorder in clinical practice.
Mechanisms of Bushen Tiaoxue Granules against controlled ovarian hyperstimulation-induced abnormal morphology of endometrium based on network pharmacology
Authors: Zhang Jia-Cheng , Zhang Hao-Lin , Xin Xi-Yan , Zhu Yu-Tian , Mao Xin , Hu Hang-Qi , Jin Yu-Xin , Fan Rui-Wen , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Ye Yang , Li Dong
Published: January 2024

Bushen Tiaoxue Granules (BTG) is an empirical Chinese herbal formula that has been used for the treatment of subfertility. The protective effect of BTG on controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH)-induced impaired endometrial receptivity has been reported in our previous study. This study aims to explore the mechanisms of BTG on ameliorating abnormal morphology of endometrium based on network pharmacology. Active compounds of BTG were identified via the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology and UPLC-MS technology. The SwissTargetPrediction platform and HERB database were used to screen out the putative targets of BTG. Potential targets of endometrial dysfunction caused by COH were obtained from three GEO databases. Through the STRING database, the protein–protein interaction was carried out according to the cross-common targets of diseases and drugs. GO terms and KEGG pathways enrichment analyses were conducted via the Metascape database. AutoDock Vina was used for docking validation of the affinity between active compounds and potential targets. Finally, in vivo experiments were used to verify the potential mechanisms derived from network pharmacology study. A total of 141 effective ingredients were obtained from TCMSP and nine of which were verified in UPLC-MS. Six genes were selected through the intersection of 534 disease related genes and 165 drug potential targets. Enrichment analyses showed that BTG might reverse endometrial dysfunction by regulating adherens junction and arachidonic acid metabolism. Hematoxylin–eosin staining revealed that BTG ameliorated the loose and edematous status of endometrial epithelium caused by COH. The protein expression of FOXO1A, β-Catenin and COX-2 was decreased in the COH group, and was up-regulated by BTG. BTG significantly alleviates the edema of endometrial epithelium caused by COH. The mechanisms may be related to adheren junctions and activation of arachidonic acid metabolism. The potential active compounds quercetin, taxifolin, kaempferol, eriodictyol, and isorhamnetin identified from the BTG exhibit marginal cytotoxicity. Both high and low concentrations of kaempferol, eriodictyol, and taxifolin are capable of effectively ameliorating impaired hESC cellular activity.
DON in pediatric cerebral malaria, a phase I/IIA dose-escalation safety study: study protocol for a clinical trial
Authors: Nampota-Nkomba Nginache , Nyirenda Osward M. , Mallewa Jane , Chimalizeni Yamikani , Dzabala Nettie , Fay Michael P. , Gopalakrishnan Mathangi , Laurens Matthew B. , O’Brien Nicole F. , Miller Louis H. , Pierce Susan K. , Riggle Brittany A. , Postels Douglas G.
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite treatment with highly effective antimalarial drugs, malaria annually claims the lives of over half a million children under 5-years of age in sub-Saharan Africa. Cerebral malaria (CM), defined as Plasmodium falciparum infection with coma, is the severe malaria syndrome with the highest mortality. Studies in the CM mouse model suggest that a T cell-mediated response underlies CM pathology, opening a new target for therapy in humans. This trial aims to establish the preliminary safety of one such novel therapy, the glutamine antagonist 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON).

Methods

In this phase I/IIa dose-escalation clinical trial, a single dose of intravenous (IV) DON is administered to three participants groups—healthy adults and adults with uncomplicated malaria, then pediatric participants with CM—to primarily assess safety. The secondary objective of this trial is to assess pharmacokinetics of DON over a range of doses. The open-label adult portion of the trial enrolls 40 healthy adults concurrently with 40 adults with uncomplicated malaria. Cohorts of 10 participants receive a single IV dose of DON with doses escalating between cohorts from 0.1 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, 5.0 mg/kg, to 10 mg/kg. Following subsequent safety review, a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled pediatric study enrolls 72 participants aged 6 months to 14 years with CM. The pediatric portion of the study minimally spans three malaria seasons including a planned interim analysis after 50% of pediatric enrollments. The first half of pediatric participants receive DON 0.1 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, or placebo. Dosing for the second half of pediatric participants is informed by the safety and preliminary efficacy results of those previously enrolled. The pediatric portion of the study has an exploratory outcome evaluating the preliminary efficacy of DON. Efficacy is assessed by diagnostics predictive of CM outcome: electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and transcranial doppler (TCD), measured before and after DON administration. All participants with malaria receive standard of care antimalarials in accordance with local guidelines, regardless of study drug dose group.

Discussion

This preliminary safety and efficacy study evaluates DON, a candidate adjunctive therapy for pediatric CM. If results support DON preliminary safety and efficacy, follow-up phase II and III clinical trials will be indicated.

Trial registration

This trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on 28 July 2022 (NCT05478720).
Preventing Respiratory Viral Illness Invisibly (PRiVII): protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomized trial evaluating far-UVC light devices in long-term care facilities to reduce infections
Authors: Nix Hayden P. , Meeker Samantha , King Caroline E. , Andrew Melissa , Davis Ian R. C. , Koto Prosper S. , Sim Meaghan , Murdoch Jennifer , Patriquin Glenn , Theriault Chris , Reidy Stephanie , Rockwood Michael , Sampalli Tara , Searle Samuel D. , Rockwood Kenneth
Published: January 2024

Background

Respiratory viral illness (RVI)—e.g., influenza, COVID-19—is a serious threat in long-term care (LTC) facilities. Standard infection control measures are suboptimal in LTC facilities because of residents’ cognitive impairments, care needs, and susceptibility to loneliness and mental illness. Further, LTC residents living with high degrees of frailty who contract RVIs often develop the so-called atypical symptoms (e.g., delirium, worse mobility) instead of typical cough and fever, delaying infection diagnosis and treatment. Although far-UVC (222 nm) light devices have shown potent antiviral activity in vitro, clinical efficacy remains unproven.

Methods

Following a study to assay acceptability at each site, this multicenter, double-blinded, cluster-randomized, placebo-controlled trial aims to assess whether far-UVC light devices impact the incidence of RVIs in LTC facilities. Neighborhoods within LTC facilities are randomized to receive far-UVC light devices (222 nm) or identical placebo light devices that emit only visible spectrum light (400–700 nm) in common areas. All residents are monitored for RVIs using both a standard screening protocol and a novel screening protocol that target atypical symptoms. The 3-year incidence of RVIs will be compared using intention-to-treat analysis. A cost-consequence analysis will follow.

Discussion

This trial aims to inform decisions about whether to implement far-UVC light in LTC facilities for RVI prevention. The trial design features align with this pragmatic intent. Appropriate additional ethical protections have been implemented to mitigate participant vulnerabilities that arise from conducting this study. Knowledge dissemination will be supported through media engagement, peer-reviewed presentations, and publications.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05084898. October 20, 2021.
Geographic expansion of the introduced Aedes albopictus and other native Aedes species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Vulu Fabien , Futami Kyoko , Sunahara Toshihiko , Mampuya Pitshou , Bobanga Thierry L. , Mumba Ngoyi Dieudonne , Minakawa Noboru
Published: January 2024

Background

Aedes albopictus has been reported in several Central African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The establishment of this mosquito species poses a serious threat as a vector of various infectious diseases. Although Ae. albopictus has been reported in the western region of the DRC, information about its distribution is still scarce in the country. The aim of this study was to investigate the current nationwide distribution of the invasive Ae. albopictus, as well as other native Aedes mosquitoes, in the DRC and to identify suitable areas for its future expansion.

Methods

Two entomological surveys were conducted in 2017–2019 and 2022. Based on the occurrence sites of Ae. albopictus, important environmental variables were identified. Then, geographical areas suitable for Ae. albopictus establishment were determined using the maximum entropy model. The distribution and abundance of Ae. albopictus were also compared with those of the major native Aedes species.

Results

Aedes albopictus was found in the western, northern, central, and eastern regions of the DRC, but it was not found in the southeastern region. The maximum entropy model predicted that most parts of the DRC are suitable for the establishment of this mosquito. The unsuitable areas encompassed the eastern highlands, known for their low temperatures, and the southeastern highlands, which experience both low temperatures and a long dry season. The native Aedes species found were Aedes aegypti, Aedes simpsoni, Aedes africanus, and Aedes vittatus. Aedes albopictus dominated in the western and northern regions, while Ae. aegypti was more prevalent in other regions.

Conclusions

Aedes albopictus has been well established in the western and northern regions of the DRC. This mosquito is expanding its distribution while replacing the native Aedes species. Most of the country is suitable for the establishment of this mosquito species, except the highlands of the eastern and the southeastern regions.

Graphical Abstract
The effect of teacher self-efficacy, online pedagogical and content knowledge, and emotion regulation on teacher digital burnout: a mediation model
Authors: Yang Xianbi , Du Juan
Published: January 2024

Background

With the increasing prevalence of online teaching, understanding the dynamics that impact educators' well-being and effectiveness is paramount. This study addresses the interconnected relationships among online teaching competence, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and digital burnout among teachers in the digital learning environment.

Objectives

The primary objectives of this research are to investigate the direct and mediated effects of online teaching competence and self-efficacy on emotion regulation and digital burnout among teachers. Additionally, the study aims to explore the mediating role of emotion regulation in the relationship between self-efficacy and digital burnout. The overarching goal is to provide comprehensive insights into the factors influencing teacher well-being in the online teaching context.

Methodology

A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving a convenience sample of educators from a specific university. Participants responded to validated self-report measures assessing online teaching competence, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and digital burnout. Statistical analyses, including regression and mediation analyses, were conducted to examine the relationships among the key variables.

Results

The findings reveal significant relationships and effects among the investigated variables. Online teaching competence is a substantial predictor of emotion regulation and digital burnout. Similarly, self-efficacy significantly impacts emotion regulation and digital burnout. Emotion regulation mediates the relationship between online teaching competence, self-efficacy, and digital burnout. These results highlight the intricate connections shaping teachers' experiences in the digital teaching environment.

Conclusions and implications

In conclusion, this study provides robust evidence supporting the interconnectedness of online teaching competence, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and digital burnout among teachers. The implications underscore the importance of fostering these competencies through targeted professional development. Educational institutions and policymakers can use these insights to implement strategies that enhance teacher well-being, ultimately promoting a more effective and sustainable online teaching environment.
CT radiomics based on different machine learning models for classifying gross tumor volume and normal liver tissue in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Huai-wen , Huang De-long , Wang Yi-ren , Zhong Hao-shu , Pang Hao-wen
Published: January 2024

Background & aims

The present study utilized extracted computed tomography radiomics features to classify the gross tumor volume and normal liver tissue in hepatocellular carcinoma by mainstream machine learning methods, aiming to establish an automatic classification model.

Methods

We recruited 104 pathologically confirmed hepatocellular carcinoma patients for this study. GTV and normal liver tissue samples were manually segmented into regions of interest and randomly divided into five-fold cross-validation groups. Dimensionality reduction using LASSO regression. Radiomics models were constructed via logistic regression, support vector machine (SVM), random forest, Xgboost, and Adaboost algorithms. The diagnostic efficacy, discrimination, and calibration of algorithms were verified using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analyses and calibration plot comparison.

Results

Seven screened radiomics features excelled at distinguishing the gross tumor area. The Xgboost machine learning algorithm had the best discrimination and comprehensive diagnostic performance with an AUC of 0.9975 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.9973–0.9978] and mean MCC of 0.9369. SVM had the second best discrimination and diagnostic performance with an AUC of 0.9846 (95% CI: 0.9835– 0.9857), mean Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC)of 0.9105, and a better calibration. All other algorithms showed an excellent ability to distinguish between gross tumor area and normal liver tissue (mean AUC 0.9825, 0.9861,0.9727,0.9644 for Adaboost, random forest, logistic regression, naivem Bayes algorithm respectively).

Conclusion

CT radiomics based on machine learning algorithms can accurately classify GTV and normal liver tissue, while the Xgboost and SVM algorithms served as the best complementary algorithms.
Janus kinase inhibitors vs. abatacept about safety and efficacy for patients with rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease: a retrospective nested case-control study
Authors: Tsujii Atsuko , Isoda Kentaro , Yoshimura Maiko , Nakabayashi Akihiko , Kim Dong-Seop , Tamada Tatsuya , Yamamoto Kurumi , Ohshima Shiro
Published: January 2024

Background

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) related to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is among the leading causes of death and an essential prognostic factor. There is only limited evidence for the safety of anti-rheumatic drugs for patients with RA-ILD. The aim of this study is to investigate the safety and efficacy of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) by comparing it with abatacept (ABT) in patients with RA-ILD.

Methods

This single centre, retrospective nested case–control study enrolled patients with RA-ILD treated with JAKi or ABT. To determine the safety of the two drugs for existing ILD, we compared their drug persistency, incidence rates of pulmonary complications, and change of chest computed tomography (CT) image. For their efficacy as RA treatment, disease activity scores and prednisolone (PSL)-sparing effect were compared. We performed propensity score matching to match the groups’ patient characteristics.

Results

We studied 71 patients with RA-ILD (ABT, n = 45; JAKi, n = 26). At baseline, the JAKi group had longer disease duration, longer duration of past bDMARD or JAKi use and higher usual interstitial pneumonia rate. After propensity score matching, no significant differences in patient characteristics were found between the two groups. No significant difference in the drug persistency rate for the first 2 years (ABT, 61.9%; JAKi, 42.8%; P = 0.256) was observed between the two matched groups. The incidence rate of pulmonary complications did not differ significantly between the two groups (P = 0.683). The CT score did not change after the treatment for the ABT group (Ground-glass opacities (GGO): P = 0.87; fibrosis: P = 0.78), while the GGO score significantly improved for the JAKi group (P = 0.03), although the number was limited (ABT: n = 7; JAKi: n = 8). The fibrosis score of the JAKi group did not change significantly.(P = 0.82). Regarding the efficacy for RA, a significant decrease in disease activity scores after the 1-year treatment was observed in both groups, and PSL dose was successfully tapered, although no significant differences were observed between the two drugs.

Conclusions

JAKi is as safe and effective as ABT for patients with RA-ILD. JAKi can be a good treatment option for such patients.
Feasibility of a web-based program for secondary prevention of suicidal behavior: The
iFight Depression-Survive
Authors: Elices M. , Canosa I. , Toll A. , Justicia A. , Colom F. , Pérez V.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Suicide is a leading cause of preventable death in the world. Interventions that can
quickly reach a large and geographically dispersed population are needed. Web-based programs
are potentially cost-effective, allowing continuity of care. The iFightDepression-SURVIVE
(iFD-Survive) is a web-based program designed as an add-on to iFightDepression, a tool
developed by the European Alliance Against Depression to target depressive symptoms
(https://ifightdepression.com/en/). iFD-Survive is based on dialectical behavioral therapy
skills and includes four modules: a safety plan, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and
distress tolerance. The content is presented in various formats, including audio, videos, and
registers. In addition, weekly telephone support is offered by a mental health
nurse.

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility (acceptability, usability, and satisfaction) of the
iFD-Survive.

Methods

30 participants who received the intervention as part of a large RCT completed an
online survey. To receive the intervention, participants needed to meet the following
criteria: 1) digital literacy, 2) having attempted suicide in the last month, and 3) PHQ-9
scores above 5. The online survey included an ad-hoc questionnaire to collect
socio-demographic data and data regarding participants’ opinions on the program’s content.
The following instruments were also administered:

System Usability Scale (SUS)

Credibility of analogue of therapy rationales

Results

Most respondents were women (20/30), with a mean age of 44 years, and secondary
studies (15/30). Most participants (57%) used a mobile phone to access the website and
regarded it as “easy to use” (53%). According to the SUS, many of them (57%) reported that
they would like to use it frequently and that the tool was “easy” and “safe” to use (53%).
Regarding acceptability, 47% of the sample indicated that the iFD-Survive content was
adequate to improve their symptoms, and 56% considered that their symptoms of depression have
improved as a result of the intervention. 83% of the sample considered telephone follow-up
“very useful.” The majority (70%) consulted the program once a week. The “safety plan” and
the mindfulness module were regarded as the most useful, followed by “distress tolerance.”
The audio for practicing mindfulness skills and the written material were considered very
useful, while the videos were valuable.

Conclusions

Online tools can promote continuity of care, helping to prevent further suicide
attempts in vulnerable populations. These preliminary findings suggest that the iFD-Survive
is feasible among participants with depressive symptoms who have recently attempted suicide.
However, these results are based on a small sample of highly educated women; therefore,
future research is needed to determine if these can be transferred to other
sub-populations.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Features of the course of affective diseases in hyperthymic persons
Authors: Barkhatova A. , Churkina A. , Bolgov M.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Hyperthymia was studied by many eminent psychiatrists considering it mainly within the
framework of the subsyndromic course of affective disorders (Akiskal H.S., Angst J., Benazzi
F.). Statistical data on the prevalence of hyperthymic personalities are scarce, which is
associated with rare requests for help and diagnosis of this condition within the framework
of character traits. Given the above, the study of the psychopathological and dynamic
features of hyperthymia seems to be very relevant, since previously hyperthymic
characterological features were not always taken into account in the diagnosis of the
disease, the selection of drugs and the prediction of remission.

Objectives

Determination of the clinical features of the course of an affective disease in
patients with hyperthymic features.

Methods

The sample consisted of, 48 patients (39 women, 9 men) who were on inpatient or
outpatient treatment at the clinic since 2019 to 2022. Patients were examined by
clinical-psychopathological, clinical-anamnestic methods due to the presence of a phase
affective state.

Results

The subjects were diagnosed with two diseases - bipolar affective disorder and
cyclothymia. There were 2 variants of affective phases - affective-mixed and “double” mania.
In bipolar disorder, there were anxiety-hypochondriacal depressions (10 patients, 38.5%),
polymorphic depressions (4 patients, 15.4%), asthenic hypomania (5 patients, 19.2%),
hypochondriacal manias (3 patients, 11. 5%), alternating states (4 patients, 15.4%), “double”
manias (8 patients, 23.5%). In cyclothymia, anxiety-hypochondriac depression (8 patients,
57.1%), somatoform decompensation (2 patients, 14.3%) and asthenic hypomania (4 patients,
28.6%) were observed.

Conclusions

Thus, bipolar disorder was the most common among hyperthymic individuals.
Anxiety-hypochondriacal depression prevailed in both nosologies. Manic and hypomanic states
were most often observed in patients with bipolar disorder (“double” manias - exclusively in
bipolar disorder).

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Assessment of executive functions through a virtual reality task in euthymic patients
with bipolar disorder and influence in psychosocial functioning
Authors: Andreu Martínez J. , Beltrán Cristancho D. , Navalón P. , Sierra San Miguel P. , García Blanco A. , Chicchi Glioli A. , Cervera Torres S. , Alcañiz Raya M. , Cañada Pérez Y.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Previous research has shown that neurocognitive deficits, especially deficits in
executive functions, may persist during euthymia in in patients with bipolar disorder (BD)
and that those are associated with an impairment of psychosocial functioning. The assessment
of executive functions (EFs) is normally carried out using laboratory tests. Novel
methodologies such as virtual reality (VR) allow the creation of immersive environments, to
evaluate executive performance with greater potential for ecological validity than
evaluations with standard tasks.

Objectives

The objectives of this project are to evaluate executive performance in euthymic
patients with BD with a novel virtual reality task compared to standard computerized tasks,
and to find predictors of functioning associated with cognitive performance.

Methods

This is a cross sectional study in which 46 euthymic patients with BD treated at La Fe
University and Polytechnic Hospital were assessed with a battery of standard computerized
tasks (ST) (TMT/Stroop,/Go-No-Go/TOL/DOT) and with the Cooking Task virtual reality task. The
Cooking Task presents 4 tasks of increasing difficulty in which you must cook food in a
specific time. It records total time to complete the task, whether food is cooled or burned,
the simultaneous use of two fires, the proper use of seasonings and the time to set the
table.

Functioning was assessed with the Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST) that
evaluates the overall functioning of patients with a mental illness in 6 subscales.

Correlation analyses between cognitive performance variables and clinical variables
were done. Multiple linear regression was performed with the FAST score as a dependent
variable and cognitive performance variables and relevant clinical variables to executive
functioning (months of euthymia, age, and number of total episodes) were included as
independent variables.

Results

A worse psychosocial functioning was significantly associated with a worse performance
in standard tasks (TMTA, TMTB, STROOP, and TOL) and cooking task (total time spent on task 2,
burning time and total time spent on task 3, and total time spent on task 4). In the
regression analysis, the correct simultaneous use of the two fires was the best predictor of
a better psychosocial functioning in BD patient. This implies the preserved ability of
planning and performing dual tasks.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that euthymic patients with BD present deficits in executive
functions related with a worse psychosocial functioning. Among the tasks, the cooking task
may have a greater sensitivity than standards task to predict real functioning. This in an
opportunity to design virtual applications for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Evaluating the implementation of the perinatal maternal route in a group of students of
the psychology program of two Universites in Colombia during the period 2022
Authors: Ruiz Gonzalez E. P. , Muñoz Argel M. N. , Vicuña Romero J. J. , Noguera Morales T. , Acevedo Rodríguez M. Y.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Reducing maternal and newborn mortality is apriority on the health agenda. Priority,
integral, integrated and barrier-free care a attention to the population frames the spirit of
the route. The Comprehensive Care Route in Perinatal Maternal Health (CRPMH) proposes “to
promote health and the improvement of maternal and perinatal health outcomes, through
comprehensive health care, including coordinated action FROM the state, THE society and the
family on the social and environmental determinants of health inequities”
(Minsalud).

Objectives

To evaluate the implementation of the CRPMH in a group of maternal students from 0-12
months.

Methods

Qualitative, through semi-structured interview techniques and focused groups (FG)
referenced from the CRPMH (table 1) in 11 undergraduate students in psychology over 18 years
from 2 Colombian universities.

Results

Qualitative analysis evaluates convergences/divergences by percentages of
questionnaire responses and axial text analysis (FG). In preconception attention 100% of
mothers do not report signs of health risk, however, caesarean section was performed in 83.3%
of cases, this safer method is perceived for the mother and fetus, and is justified taking
into account that the pain of childbirth is very strong (FG).

In gestational health they indicate prenatal control, medical appointments, formation
in the condition of the fetus, guidelines on care, respectful upbringing and breastfeeding in
100%. In contrast, the focus group reports low empathy of doctors toward levels their fears,
reduced time to address concerns, negative information about labor and satisfaction with
medical procedures, considering caesarean section a humanized strategy.

Access to CRPMH is known by 50% of mothers, they do not know the preconceptional
consultation. In the GF they conclude that the information on preparation for maternity and
paternity is ineffective.

Psychological support is absent during childbirth and postpartum. There is a greater
knowledge about breastfeeding 83.3%

Discussion

The successful implementation of the route could reduce the risks of physical and
psychological impact on perinatal maternal health by facilitating decisions about motherhood
and its practice in the university educational environment. There was recognition of the
clinical factors of the CRPMH and ignorance of the responsibility of the educational
environment in its implementation.

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Conclusions

The CCRPMH regulation is insufficient to guarantee its implementation. Risk factors
include the quality of service provided by health-care providers and the lack of knowledge of
regulations in university management.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared