bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical Application of Autologous Plasma-Derived Plasminogen Accelerates Healing of Chronic Foot Ulcers in Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Petrenko Oleg , Badziukh Sergiy , Korsa Victoria , Kolosovych Ihor , Tykhomyrov Artem
Published: May 2024

Plasminogen (Pg) is currently considered a master regulator of wound healing, but the molecular mechanisms of its efficacy in improving impaired closure of chronic skin ulcers in type 2 diabetes patients remain unclear. Here, we investigated wound healing effects of autologous plasma-derived Pg in diabetes patients with chronic foot ulcers and evaluated Pg-induced changes in levels of key protein markers related to wound repair. Type 2 diabetes patients with chronic wounds of lower extremities were included in the study and received topical applications of Pg in a dose of 1.0 mg/mL every 2 days during 20 days, in addition to the standard wound management treatment. Patients treated only according to conventional protocol served as a control. Wound closure rates were monitored by digital planimetry of wound areas. Plasminogen supplementary treatment significantly accelerated relative wound closure as compared with diabetes patients from the control group (24 ± 4 days vs 120 ± 17 days, respectively, P < .01). As shown by Western blot, Pg application reduced expression of protein regulators of hypoxia events, angiogenesis, and autophagy such as hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (by 6.3-folds, P < .01), angiostatins (by 2.5-folds, P < .05), and autophagy marker LC3-II/LC3-I (by 8.6-folds, P < .05), while increasing vascular endothelial growth factor level by 1.9-folds ( P < .05). Gelatin zymography showed that Pg-supplemented therapy decreased activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) by 3.5-folds at the end of treatment period ( P < .01). We report here for the first time that topically applied plasma-derived Pg has a pronounced beneficial effect in promoting foot ulcer healing in patients with type 2 diabetes through preventing hypoxia-induced signaling, reducing autophagy flux, diminishing excessive MMP activity, and enhancing angiogenesis.
The Flourishing Scale: Psychometric Properties in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Cerezo M. Victoria , Soria-Reyes Lorena M. , Alarcón Rafael , Blanca María J.
Published: May 2024

Background/Objective:

Promoting well-being is a key goal of cancer care, and it needs to be assessed using appropriate instruments. Flourishing is considered part of psychological well-being and it is commonly assessed with the Flourishing Scale (FS). To our knowledge, no studies have analyzed the psychometric properties of the FS in breast cancer patients. Our aim here was to provide validity evidence for use of the FS in this context.

Method:

Participants were 217 Spanish women with breast cancer who completed the FS and other scales assessing positive psychology constructs (life satisfaction, positive affect, resilience, self-esteem, optimism) and indicators of psychological maladjustment (negative affect, depression, anxiety, and stress). The internal structure of the FS was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). We calculated the average variance extracted (AVE) to evaluate convergent validity, and both McDonald’s omega and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients to estimate reliability. Item analysis was performed by computing corrected item-total correlations. Validity evidence based on relationships with other variables was obtained through Pearson correlation analysis, controlling for age and cancer stage.

Results:

The CFA supported a single-factor structure, with adequate goodness-of-fit indices (CFI = 0.997, NNFI = 0.996, RMSEA = 0.069, and SRMR = 0.047) and standardized factor loadings ranging from 0.70 to 0.87. The value of the AVE was 0.63, and the reliability coefficient obtained with both procedures was 0.91. Corrected item-total correlations ranged from .62 to .78. Correlation analysis showed direct and strong associations between the FS score and scores on positive psychology constructs (range from 0.43 to 0.74), the strongest correlations being with positive affect and life satisfaction. The FS score was inversely correlated with scores on depression, anxiety, stress, negative affect, and pessimism (range from −0.14 to −0.52), the strongest association being with stress.

Discussion:

The FS is a useful tool for exploring well-being in the breast cancer context, providing useful information for psychological assessment.
Research of closed loop characteristics of single and double chamber structure for fuel metering mechanism
Authors: Zhang Peng , Jiang AnChang
Published: May 2024

There are two forms of engine fuel metering devices which are single and double chamber structures using electro-hydraulic servo valves as electro-hydraulic conversion devices to realize accurate fuel flow measurements and constant pressure differential valve is used to maintain the constant pressure difference of the metering valve. The main purpose of this article is to analyze the time domain and frequency domain characteristics of constant pressure differential valve assembly and compare the closed-loop characteristics of two metering mechanisms. Firstly, the mathematical model of constant pressure differential valve assembly (including the fuel pump and constant pressure differential valve) is established and its time and frequency domain characteristics are analyzed. The conclusion that the constant pressure differential of the metering valve can meet the practical requirements is obtained. Secondly, the mathematical models of single and double-chamber fuel metering mechanisms are established considering the specific working conditions. Finally, the characteristics of two kinds of metering mechanisms are compared and analyzed under the same control method in the time and frequency domain. The extension overshoot with a maximum value of 3.564% of the single chamber control metering valve mechanism is smaller than that of the double chamber control metering valve mechanism with a maximum extension overshoot of 6.04%. The negative overshoot with a maximum value of 1.391% of the single chamber control metering valve mechanism is bigger than the double chamber control metering valve mechanism with a maximum negative overshoot value of 1.17%. In terms of steady-state error, the steady-state error of a single chamber control metering valve mechanism with a maximum value of 0.194 mm and minimum value of 1.25e-6 mm is smaller than that maximum value of 0.302 mm and minimum value of 1.95e-6 mm of double chamber control metering valve mechanism under the same controller parameters. The bandwidth of the extension motion of the single and double chamber control metering valve is greater than that of the retraction motion. Under the same proportional control parameter, the bandwidth of the double chamber control metering valve extension motion system is greater than that of the single chamber extension motion system.
Identification of rail cracks based on path graph features and SVM
Authors: Ye Yunfei , Ji Kailun , Wang Ping
Published: May 2024

In order to improve the accuracy of rail crack identification, a new method based on path graph feature and support vector machine is proposed. This method uses graph signal processing and graph theory to transform the magnetic flux leakage signal of rail crack, calculates the “time domain” and “frequency domain” statistics of the path graph signal, and effectively identifies rail cracks with different defect parameters by SVM classifier. The measured data verify the effectiveness of this method, which shows that the method of identifying rail cracks by using path graph features has higher accuracy and stability. The innovation of this method is that it draws on the idea of transform domain features to extract the graph domain features that can best represent the MFL signal. Compared with the 31 features used by the traditional method, this method only needs 22 features to achieve better recognition results and has shorter training time. For the recognition rate of 18 kinds of cracks, the average recognition rate of this method is more than 83.51%, and the highest recognition rate is 95.34%. Therefore, this study provides a new way for magnetic leakage analysis and treatment of rail crack detection, has important practical value, and provides beneficial enlightenment for further research in related fields.
Advanced diagnostic techniques for turbo compressors: A spectral analysis approach for preventive maintenance
Authors: Kebabsa Tarek , Babouri Mohamed Khemissi , Djebala Abderrazek , Ouelaa Nouredine
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces an innovative spectral analysis control approach aimed at monitoring and diagnosing machine malfunctions to prevent potential failures. The research was conducted on a critical machine in a major industrial enterprise. The proposed method involves the use of a new indicator, called Overall Level (OL), that evaluates the machine’s condition before any operation. This study showcases practical methodologies for transitioning from time-based maintenance to predictive strategies, furnishing actionable insights into machine condition. This yields tangible advantages for the industry in terms of optimizing maintenance practices and enhancing asset productivity. Additionally, various methods, including vibration analysis, performance monitoring, and data analysis, are employed to identify the causes of issues and recommend solutions to enhance the reliability of the turbo compressor. The results provide a clear representation of the machine’s vibration state for diagnostic purposes. This noteworthy intervention underscores the potential of incorporating the measured and calculated values of the OL indicator across three specifically chosen frequency bands. To achieve this objective, the average value is employed as an indicator, contributing to the enhancement of reliability and longevity of critical industrial machinery. In this context, the novelty of the findings resides in the advanced diagnostic capabilities of the turbocompressor, thereby augmenting the efficacy of condition-based preventive maintenance for the BP 103 J turbine. The ultimate goal is to extend the equipment’s lifespan, improve the efficiency of the rotating machinery fleet, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance parameters such as availability and reliability through the support of an electronic maintenance system.
Diagnostic yield using electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy for peripheral pulmonary nodules <2 cm
Authors: Chen Jun-Ying , Yang Han , Lin Xiao-Dan , Yang Hong , Wen Jing , Liu Qian-Wen , Zhang Lan-Jun , Lin Peng , Fu Jian-Hua , Leng Chang-Sen , Yi Rong , Luo Kong-Jia
Published: May 2024

Background:

Although electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) is highly sensitive in the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary nodules (PPNs), its diagnostic yield for subgroups of smaller PPNs is under evaluation.

Objectives:

Diagnostic yield evaluation of biopsy using ENB for PPNs <2 cm.

Design:

The diagnostic yield, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the ENB-mediated biopsy for PPNs were evaluated.

Methods:

Patients who had PPNs with diameters <2 cm and underwent ENB-mediated biopsy between May 2015 and February 2020 were consecutively enrolled. The final diagnosis was made via pathological examination after surgery.

Results:

A total of 82 lesions from 65 patients were analyzed. The median tumor size was 11 mm. All lesions were subjected to ENB-mediated biopsy, of which 29 and 53 were classified as malignant and benign, respectively. Subsequent segmentectomy, lobectomy, or wedge resection, following pathological examinations were performed on 64 nodules from 57 patients. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for nodules <2 cm were 53.3%, 91.7%, 92.3%, and 51.2%, respectively. The receiver operating curve showed an area under the curve of 0.721 ( p < 0.001). Additionally, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 62.5%, 100%, 100%, and 42.9%, respectively, for nodules with diameters equal to or larger than 1 cm; and 30.8%, 86.7%, 66.7%, and 59.1%, respectively, for nodules less than 1 cm. In the subgroup analysis, neither the lobar location nor the distance of the PPNs to the pleura affected the accuracy of the ENB diagnosis. However, the spiculated sign had a negative impact on the accuracy of the ENB biopsy ( p = 0.010).

Conclusion:

ENB has good specificity and positive predictive value for diagnosing PPNs <2 cm; however, the spiculated sign may negatively affect ENB diagnostic accuracy. In addition, the diagnostic reliability may only be limited to PPNs equal to or larger than 1 cm.
A combination of radiomic features, clinic characteristics, and serum tumor biomarkers to predict the possibility of the micropapillary/solid component of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xing Xiaowei , Li Liangping , Sun Mingxia , Zhu Xinhai , Feng Yue
Published: May 2024

Background:

Invasive lung adenocarcinoma with MPP/SOL components has a poor prognosis and often shows a tendency to recurrence and metastasis. This poor prognosis may require adjustment of treatment strategies. Preoperative identification is essential for decision-making for subsequent treatment.

Objective:

This study aimed to preoperatively predict the probability of MPP/SOL components in lung adenocarcinomas by a comprehensive model that includes radiomics features, clinical characteristics, and serum tumor biomarkers.

Design:

A retrospective case control, diagnostic accuracy study.

Methods:

This study retrospectively recruited 273 patients (males: females, 130: 143; mean age ± standard deviation, 63.29 ± 10.03 years; range 21–83 years) who underwent resection of invasive lung adenocarcinoma. Sixty-one patients (22.3%) were diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma with MPP/SOL components. Radiomic features were extracted from CT before surgery. Clinical, radiomic, and combined models were developed using the logistic regression algorithm. The clinical and radiomic signatures were integrated into a nomogram. The diagnostic performance of the models was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC). Studies were scored according to the Radiomics Quality Score and Transparent Reporting of a Multivariable Prediction Model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis guidelines.

Results:

The radiomics model achieved the best AUC values of 0.858 and 0.822 in the training and test cohort, respectively. Tumor size (T_size), solid tumor size (ST_size), consolidation-to-tumor ratio (CTR), years of smoking, CYFRA 21-1, and squamous cell carcinoma antigen were used to construct the clinical model. The clinical model achieved AUC values of 0.741 and 0.705 in the training and test cohort, respectively. The nomogram showed higher AUCs of 0.894 and 0.843 in the training and test cohort, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study has developed and validated a combined nomogram, a visual tool that integrates CT radiomics features with clinical indicators and serum tumor biomarkers. This innovative model facilitates the differentiation of micropapillary or solid components within lung adenocarcinoma and achieves a higher AUC, indicating superior predictive accuracy.
Addressing the elephant in the room: economic growth and the nation’s poor health – changing the economy’s goal for a healthier future
Authors: Noonan RJ
Published: May 2024

This opinion piece focuses on how in order to improve the nation’s poor health, the government needs to place more value on social justice and wellbeing as well as the use of regulation to positively change culture and health behaviour.
Challenges of determining the relative contribution of determinants of health on population health: a Canadian perspective
Authors: Aloosh M , Hopkins J
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the source of frequently cited data regarding the relative contribution of determinants of health to population health in Canada. It critically discusses the imperative for such national or regional data in policymaking, and the challenges and limitations of this approach.
Effectiveness and safety of immunoadsorption as a rescue treatment of inflammatory myopathies: report of three cases and literature review
Authors: Nies Jasper F. , Hendrix Claudia , Bartram Malte P. , Spear Ryan , Hagmann Henning , Benzing Thomas , Kubacki Torsten
Published: May 2024

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) summarizes rare, systemic autoimmune conditions primarily characterized by inflammatory damage to the skeletal muscle. Although primary damage occurs to the muscle, these IIM-related conditions involve other organs, including the skin, lungs, upper gastrointestinal tract, joints, and heart. While many patients have an adequate response to immunosuppressive treatment, some patients develop rapidly progressive and treatment-resistant life-threatening courses. Treatment-resistant IIM is challenging for the treating physician and requires interdisciplinary and individualized treatment approaches. Extracorporeal therapy is one option for rescue therapy, with immunoadsorption (IA) having proven more effective than plasma exchange regarding the removal of circulating antibodies. Despite its efficacy and desirable safety profile, the clinical value of IA use in IIM is understudied with no controlled trials reported. Here, we present a review of the current knowledge regarding the management of treatment-resistant IIM and the cases of three patients with treatment-resistant IIM (two with dermatomyositis and one with immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy) who have successfully been treated with IA. All patients responded well to the therapy and experienced no IA-related complications. Taken together, we found IA to be a safe and effective treatment option in treatment-resistant IIM.
Modulatory Effect of Dihydromyricetin on Chronic Alcoholic Liver Injury Based on the FXR-NLRP3 Signaling Pathway and Serum and Liver Metabolomics
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhou Jinhang , Shi Wenxin , Shao Shijuan , Chen Yunzhong
Published: May 2024

Background

In modern diets, alcohol consumption has led to an increase in the number of cases of alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). Dihydromyricetin (DMY) is commonly used as a hepatoprotective agent owing to its remarkable efficacy in treating chronic alcoholic liver injury; however, its mechanism of action is unclear. The object of the study is to investigate the effect and mechanism of DMY in alleviating chronic ALD.

Methods

A mouse model of chronic ALD was established. Mice were treated with DMY for 56 days, and their biochemical parameters including liver function, blood lipids, and oxidative stress-related indices were measured. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) expression, NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) pathway-related protein expression, and inflammation-related gene expression were determined to elucidate the mechanism of DMY in mice with ALD. Lastly, serum and liver metabolomics-based UHPLC-Orbitrap Exploris MS analyses were used to determine the influence of the metabolism of DMY on mice with ALD.

Results

Pharmacodynamic studies showed that DMY could decrease aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, improve superoxide dismutase activity, and reduce inflammation in mice with ALD. DMY treatment protects the liver by increasing FXR protein expression and by decreasing NLRP3 pathway-related protein expression and inflammatory gene expression. Metabolomics analysis indicated that ethanol treatment mainly altered metabolism in mice. DMY could regulate 10 metabolites in serum, namely, N-α-acetyllysine, 1-pyrrolinecytosine, glutamyllysine, 5-methylcytosine, N-methylvaline, pyridoxamine, demethoxycurcumin, L-arginine, triacetin, and 15-methylpalmitate. It could also regulate 31 metabolites in the liver, including L-methionine and L-leucine. DMY treatment altered the following important pathways: valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis; cysteine and methionine metabolism; and valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation. Correlation analyses using heatmaps revealed that the metabolic parameters are closely related to the pharmacodynamic index.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that DMY alleviated ALD by regulating the FXR-NLRP3 signaling pathway and could treat serum and liver metabolic disorders.
Politically Driven Intentional News Avoidance under Democratic Backsliding
Authors: Lee Francis L. F.
Published: May 2024

While extant research on news avoidance has been conducted mainly in democratic societies, this article examines intentional news avoidance in a society undergoing severe democratic backsliding. Given the decline of political freedom and democratic institutions, citizens in such contexts may become frustrated with ongoing political change and withdraw from public affairs and the news. This could result in a form of intentional, politically driven, and topical news avoidance. At the individual level, such news avoidance is likely to be influenced by political attitudes, ability to adapt, and news affect and cognition. Analysis of survey data from post-National Security Law Hong Kong finds that negative news affect and perceived news efficacy explain intentional avoidance of news about social and political change, whereas political trust, belief in civil liberties, and adaptiveness relate to news avoidance only indirectly through negative news affect and perceived news efficacy. Theoretical implications of the findings are discussed.
Predictors and Implications of Parents’ Beliefs About the Age Appropriateness of LGBTQ+ Topics for Children
Authors: Chaney Kimberly E. , Wilton Leigh S. , Morgenroth Thekla , Cipollina Rebecca , Pereira-Jorge Izilda
Published: May 2024

U.S. policies increasingly limit lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or another marginalized gender identity or sexual orientation (LGBTQ +) education topics for children under the guise of age-appropriate curriculum, placing the responsibility of educating children about LGBTQ + identities and experiences on parents. We examined parents’ beliefs about the age-appropriateness of LGBTQ + topics for children, with implications for parent–child conversations and support for restricted LGBTQ + curriculum. In two studies, LGBTQ + and cisgender-heterosexual parents’ ( N = 837) belief that LGBTQ + topics are age-appropriate for children at an older age was related to fewer parent–child conversations about LGBTQ + topics and greater anticipated discomfort having such conversations (Studies 1 and 2). Counter to hypotheses, exposure to restrictive LGBTQ + education policies did not affect age-appropriateness beliefs (Studies 1 and 2). In line with hypotheses, parents’ belief that sexual orientation discussion should be minimized was associated with later age-appropriateness beliefs and greater support for restricting LGBTQ + curriculum (cisgender-heterosexual parents; Study 2). These studies highlight age-appropriateness beliefs as a key mechanism hindering critical parent–child LGBTQ + conversations.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward malaria among hospital outpatients in Nangarhar, Afghanistan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nemat Arash , Sherzad Abdul Ghafar , Ehsan Ehsanullah , Hussainzai Asadullah , Naderi Mehrab , Zaki Naqeebullah , Essar Mohammad Yasir , Mowlabaccus Wafaa Binti , Head Michael G , Asady Abdullah
Published: May 2024

Background:

In the Eastern Mediterranean region, Afghanistan ranks third for the world’s highest burden of malaria. The vast majority (95%) of malaria cases in Afghanistan are attributed to Plasmodium falciparum and 5% to Plasmodium vivax. Most cases occur in low-altitude regions, especially in the eastern province of Nangarhar, where agriculture and farming are predominant. To better understand the public sentiment toward malaria, this study aimed to understand the knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients toward malaria who visited public and private hospitals of Nangarhar province.

Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on Nangarhar residents who visited the adult Outpatient departments of eight local public and private health facilities. Data collection took place from 1st August 2022 to 15th September 2022.

Results:

Of 700 participants, 37.9% ( n = 265) identified as male and 62.1% ( n = 435) identified as female. The majority of participants (84.6 %) were within the (18–40) age range, followed by 12.7% in the (41–60) age range, and 2.7% were aged 61 years or older. Moreover, 99.7% ( n = 698) of the participants had heard of malaria. The main sources of information about malaria were family members (31.3%, n = 219), television (32.6%, n = 228), Internet (12.6%, n = 88), school (11.3%, n = 79), and health facilities (31.4%, n = 220). Most respondents correctly identified mosquito bites as the primary mode of malaria transmission (72.6%, n = 508). Others suggested that transmission could occur by close contact with a malaria patient (14.0%, n = 98) and drinking contaminated water (17.3%, n = 121). The majority of participants (70.6%) agreed that malaria is a serious and life-threatening disease. A significant number of participants (96.6%) reported owning an insecticide-treated mosquito net at home, and 87.0% reported using the net.

Conclusion:

Overall, participants reported good knowledge, attitude, and practice toward malaria. This may be linked to the awareness campaigns and preventive programs in Nangarhar province that have contributed to participant’s willingness to prevent malaria and treat themselves if they get infected. Public health campaigns are difficult in Afghanistan with weak governance and conflict, and thus, populations may find themselves at risk if health promotion activities are stopped.
Long-term survival of a cat with a metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Authors: Civa Patrick Antônio Sonaglio , Fonseca-Alves Carlos Eduardo , Dos Anjos Denner Santos
Published: May 2024

Case summary

An 8-year-old spayed female mixed-breed cat presented with a 2-year history of recurrent vomiting and hyporexia. Physical examination revealed a palpable mass in the mesogastric abdominal region without discomfort upon touch. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed an intramural mass in the small intestine (duodenum) that caused a decrease in the segment lumen. A complete blood count revealed leukocytosis with marked neutrophilia, eosinophilia and mild hypoalbuminemia. Enterectomy was performed with 3 cm margins and end-to-end anastomosis at the duodenal site of the mass. Histology revealed neoplastic elongated spindle cells that were poorly confined, originating within the muscle layers and that had a mitotic index of 2/10 high-power field (hpf) (at 400×), human epidermal growth factor receptor-type 2 (HER-2) supporting the diagnosis of low-grade sarcoma. Immunohistochemical analysis was positive for KIT, confirming a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) with a Ki67 level of 15%. Furthermore, multikinase profile biomarkers revealed that the neoplastic cells expressed HER-2 (65%), epidermal growth factor receptor-1 (50%), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (35%), platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (15%) and c-KIT (15%). Six months after the original surgery, CT revealed presumptive hepatic, splenic and peritoneal metastases. Toceranib phosphate was prescribed at a dose of 2.75 mg/kg and progressive disease was observed at 8 weeks of follow-up.

Relevance and novel information

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to characterize the proliferation biomarker profile of a feline GIST in veterinary oncology. However, despite KIT expression in this tumor, the target drug did not inhibit tumor proliferation, providing new insights into this rare tumor in the feline species.
Virtual reality after stroke: Identifying important characteristics when designing experiences to improve engagement in upper limb rehabilitation
Authors: Isbel Stephen , Holloway Helen , Greber Craig , Nguyen Kelly , Frost Jane , Pearce Claire , D’Cunha Nathan M
Published: May 2024

Objective

Virtual reality (VR) has been used to improve upper limb function after stroke but there is little to guide product developers in building experiences that engage users in the sustained, repetitive training required. This research sought to understand the characteristics of VR scenarios best suited to engaging someone with a stroke during recovery to achieve therapeutic outcomes.

Methods

Five creative immersive VR scenarios were designed by an experienced VR content creator containing unique combinations of VR characteristics. The usefulness of the scenarios was reviewed by expert clinicians experienced in stroke rehabilitation. Following this review, seven stroke survivors participated in each experience and reported on their engagement and motivation. Outcome measures were the User Satisfaction Evaluation Questionnaire and the modified Intrinsic Motivation Inventory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants following their immersive VR experience and analysed thematically.

Results

Expert clinicians reported potential therapeutic value in the immersive VR scenarios by providing opportunities for repeated and graded practice of upper limb movements. Stroke survivors reported varied levels of enjoyment and engagement for each scenario. They recommended changes to the experiences, primarily relating to the tailoring of the scenarios to match varied upper limb capacities.

Conclusion

This study highlights the characteristics of immersive VR scenarios that are important in sustaining motivation and providing high-repetition task-specific movement experiences. Differences in the experience and preferences of stroke participants regarding the characteristics of immersive VR experiences indicate that a variety of experiences are necessary to engage and sustain participation in an immersive VR-related therapy programme.
Pre-Fracture Functional Status and Early Functional Recovery are Significant Predictors of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living After Hip Fracture: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Selaković Ivan , Mandić-Rajčević Stefan , Milovanović Anđela , Tomanović-Vujadinović Sanja , Dimitrijević Sanja , Aleksić Milica , Dubljanin-Raspopović Emilija
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Although the overall quality of medicine has improved in recent decades, the functional capacity in many hip fracture patients remains insufficient. The goal of the present study was to identify significant predictors of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) measured by the Lawton-Brody scale at 3- and 6-month follow-up in patients with hip fractures admitted to a hospital.

Methods

This observational cohort study included 191 patients with acute hip fractures. IADL was measured at baseline and after 3 and 6 months using the Lawton-Brody scale. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out using pre-fracture functional status, sociodemographic variables, hand grip strength (HGS), surgical procedure, complications, and length of hospital stay, Short Physical Performance Battery, and Barthel Index (BI) on the fifth postoperative day as potential predictors for IADL after a hip fracture surgery.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 80.3 ± 6.8 years, and 77.0% of our cohort were women. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that pre-fracture functional status and early functional recovery were independent predictors of IADL after hip fracture surgery.

Conclusions

Clinicians should take steps to improve functional outcomes by changing how patients are rehabilitated in the first days after hip fracture surgery, especially for the group of patients with a lower functional status before the fracture.
When the Student Becomes the Teacher: Determinants of Self-Estimated Successful PhD Completion Among Graduate Teaching Assistants
Authors: Glorieux Anaïs , Spruyt Bram , te Braak Petrus , Minnen Joeri , van Tienoven Theun Pieter
Published: May 2024

This study investigates how graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) differ from regular graduates in terms of input characteristics (i.e., who they are), process characteristics (i.e., how they experience the PhD trajectory), and the self-estimated likelihood of successfully completing the PhD. Additionally, it assesses to what extent and how the input and process characteristics explain the self-estimated success rate between the two groups. The data come from four waves of the PhD Survey (2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021; N = 1,766) conducted at a large university in Brussels (Belgium). Results show that GTAs estimated their likelihood of successful completion of their PhD lower compared to regular graduates. This difference is mediated by a lower satisfaction with the supervisor support and a higher amount of time pressure among GTAs. Additionally, GTAs’ surplus of time spent on teaching duties and the lack of a research plan was negatively related to the self-estimated likelihood of successful completion to a greater extent than regular graduates.
Factors Affecting the Decision of First-Year Pharmacy Students to Study Pharmacy in Can Tho, Vietnam
Authors: Tran Van De , Truong Thi Quyen , Dao Hoang Ngoc , Lai Ha Phuong , Thach Thi Diem Phuong , Tran Nguyen Minh Tam , Nguyen Minh Cuong , Nguyen Thanh Huy , Pham Kieu Anh Tho , Susan Dewey Rebecca , Van Cong Khanh
Published: May 2024

Establishing and maintaining a highly-trained pharmaceutical workforce is crucial for serving the healthcare needs of the population. Globally, various factors have been associated with the decision of students leaving high school to pursue an undergraduate degree in pharmacy, however, this topic has not yet been explored in Vietnam. To explore the motivations of first-year undergraduate pharmacy students to study pharmacy at university. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 428 first-year pharmacy students enrolled in undergraduate pharmacy programs from across all universities in Can Tho, Vietnam, including one public university (193 students) and two private universities (235 students), from November 2022 to February 2023. Exploratory factor analysis identified five underlying factors associated with the choice of students to study pharmacy, with internal consistency assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha (α): personal factors (α = .86), career (α = .88), advice (α = .74), reputation (α = .84), and promotion (α = .76). Of these factors, personal factors had the greatest impact (mean = 4.13), while the least influential factor was promotion (mean = 2.92). Compared to public university students, private university students were more influenced by career ( p = .019), advice ( p = .002), and promotion ( p < .001) when making the decision to study pharmacy. This study identifies the factors associated with the decision to pursue pharmacy education. These findings may be of interest to educational institutions addressing how they attract students and meet the workforce needs of the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare system.
Does Family Background Affect the Experience of College Student Leaders?
Authors: Guohua Zeng , Jingyan Zeng , Wenwen Wu
Published: May 2024

Educational process inequality is an important branch of higher education fairness and the role difference of student leaders is one of the important phenomena of educational process inequality. Based on the employment administrative data of 2018 college graduates in a province in central China, this paper investigates the relationship between family background factors and college students serving as student cadres by using Multiple Logit Regression. The results show that the father’s work unit and the father’s educational level have a significant impact on college students as student leaders. The students whose father works in a unit within the system and whose father has a college degree or above were more likely to be student cadres. However, the poor students with disadvantaged family economic resources are more likely to serve as student leaders, which is contrary to the expected conclusion. Scholastic attainment can effectively adjust the positive influence of family background factors on the experience of student cadres and promote the relative equality of education process.
The Influence of Ecological Systems on Primary School Learner Performance in Informal Settlements in Namibia
Authors: Ipinge Kaino , Seroto Johannes
Published: May 2024

Learners’ underperformance in primary schools in informal settlements is a concern worldwide. Families living in urban informal settlements of Windhoek, Namibia face overwhelming social and economic challenges, which affect children’s academic performance. A qualitative inquiry was informed by Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory with reference to the microsystem, mesosystem, and the exosystem, which emphasizes the complex interactions between individuals and their environment. Three primary schools were selected in the informal settlements of the Khomas Region, Windhoek, Namibia and a purposive sample of participants was chosen comprising school teachers, principals, school board chairpersons, parents, and Grade 7 learners. Data were collected by semi-structured individual interviews and analyzed according to themes. Findings indicated that challenges in the microsystem (poverty and socio-economic context), mesosystem (parental engagement and peer pressure), and exosystem (school infrastructure) were the main contributory factors to poor learner performance in the selected schools. The interconnectedness between learners and their ecological systems and how these systems interact have a direct bearing on learner performance.
The Effects of Human-Robot Interactions and the Human-Robot Relationship on Robot Competence, Trust, and Acceptance
Authors: Yuan Yue , Wu Chih-Fu , Niu Jin , Mao Limin
Published: May 2024

As social robots may be used by a single user or multiple users different social scenarios are becoming more important for defining human-robot relationships. Therefore, this study explored human-robot relationships between robots and users in different interaction modes to improve user interaction experience. Specifically, education and companion were selected as the most common areas in the use of social robots. The interaction modes used include single-user interaction and multi-user interaction. The three human-robot relationships were adopted. The robot competence scale, human-robot trust scale, and acceptance of robot scale were used to evaluate subjects’ views on robots. The results demonstrate that in the two scenarios, people were more inclined to maintain a more familiar and closer relationship with the social robot when the robot interacted with a single user. When multiple persons interact in an education scenario, setting the robot to Acquaintance relationships is recommended to improve its competence and people’s trust in the robot. Similarly, in multi-person interaction, Acquaintance relationships would be more accepted and trusted by people in a companion scenario. Based on these results, robot sensors can be added to further optimize human-robot interaction sensing systems. By identifying the number of users in the interaction environment, robots can automatically employ the best human-robot relationship for interaction. Optimizing human-robot interaction sensing systems can also improve robot performance perceived in the interaction to meet different users’ needs and achieve more natural human-robot interaction experiences.
Investigation of the Shared Biomarkers in Heterotopic Ossification Between Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Liu Yishan , Li Yang , Liu Yixuan , Gao Zhongya , Zhang Jianjun , Qiu Youcai , Wang Can , Lu Xuhua , Yang Jiandong
Published: May 2024

Study Design

Bioinformatics analysis of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO).

Objective

Ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) represent intricate conditions marked by the gradual progression of endochondral ossification. This investigation endeavors to unveil common biomarkers associated with heterotopic ossification and explore the potential molecular regulatory mechanisms.

Methods

Microarray and RNA-sequencing datasets retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) repository were harnessed to discern differentially expressed genes (DEGs) within the OLF and AS datasets. Subsequently, Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was implemented to pinpoint co-expression modules linked to OLF and AS. Common genes were further subjected to an examination of functional pathway enrichment. Moreover, hub intersection genes were identified using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, followed by an evaluation of diagnostic performance in external OLF and AS cohorts. Lastly, an analysis of immune cell infiltration was conducted to scrutinize the correlation of immune cell presence with shared biomarkers in OLF and AS.

Results

A total of 1353 and 91 Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) were identified in OLF and AS, respectively. Using the Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), 2 modules were found to be notably significant for OLF and AS. The integrative bioinformatic analysis revealed 3 hub genes (MAB21L2, MEGF10, ISLR) as shared risk biomarkers, with MAB21L2 being the central focus. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis exhibited a strong diagnostic potential for these hub genes. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis indicated their involvement in the positive regulation of myoblast proliferation. Notably, MAB21L2 was singled out as the optimal common biomarker for OLF and AS. Furthermore, an analysis of immune infiltration demonstrated a correlation between MAB21L2 expression and changes in immune cells. Activated CD8 T cells were identified as shared differential immune infiltrating cells significantly linked to MAB21L2 in both OLF and AS.

Conclusion

This study represents the first instance of identifying MAB21L2 as a prospective diagnostic marker for patients contending with OLF associated with AS. The research results indicate that the ECM-receptor interaction and the cell-cell adhesion may play a role in both disease processes. This newfound knowledge not only enhances our understanding of the pathogenesis behind spinal ligament ossification but also uncovers potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
Explicit Training in Systematic Communication Strategies: A Pilot Study Exploring the Incorporation of Communication Tools by First-Year Residents in Simulation and in Clinical Practice
Authors: Hoffert Mara M , Newman Jennifer , Mortimore Anastasia , Passalacqua Karla D , Abreu Lanfranco Odaliz
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES

Educational approaches for training physicians in clinical communications vary, and whether physicians apply the communication skills they learn or find them useful in the clinic is not well known. The aim of this study was to determine how first-year residents who received explicit instruction in 7 communication strategies would apply them in a simulation exercise and in clinical practice.

METHODS

First-year Internal Medicine residents at an urban teaching hospital received instruction in 7 systematic communication strategies: Ask-Tell-Ask, Teach-back, open-ended questioning, NURSE, open body language, pausing, and plain language. Residents were evaluated on their use of specific communication behaviors associated with the 7 strategies during a simulation exercise of disclosing a medical error to a standardized patient. Control group residents who did the simulation before attending the training program and training group residents who did the simulation after the training were compared. Residents were queried 6 months after the training program on their use of communication strategies during clinical practice.

RESULTS

A total of 27 residents participated ( n = 13 control group; n = 14 training group). The training group performed behaviors for “establishing patient understanding” significantly more often than the control group. Both groups used non-verbal communication and behaviors for addressing patient emotions at similar levels. Of the 24 residents who responded to the 6-month follow-up questionnaire, 24 (100%) reported using Ask-Tell-Ask, open-ended questioning, and Teach-back, and 22 (92%) reported using NURSE statements and non-verbal communication. Most respondents reported using the strategies in clinical practice often or very often (79%) and found the strategies useful or very useful (96%).

CONCLUSION

Providing explicit instruction in systematic communication strategies, particularly those focused on establishing patient understanding, may be an efficient approach for helping early career physicians develop effective communication skills that can be readily implemented during clinical training and practice.
Adivasi Text as an Assertion and a Lament: A Feminist Perspective and a Critique of Religious Conversion and Reservations
Authors: Dharavath Mohan , Rani Neetha
Published: May 2024

This article explores the ways in which Kocharethi: The Araya Woman by Adivasi writer Narayan is a significant work in Adivasi literature in the way that it opens the life-world of a community, family and individuals. Kocharethi is a story about the intimate ways in which the Malayaraya Adivasi community of Kerala relates to their land and its ownership. Kocharethi is about their exploitation, impoverishment, displacement and erasure and their interaction and negotiation with modernity. It is not an overtly political piece of writing in the sense that it does not incorporate political consciousness, language, form and content, but by centring the Adivasi life-world, it attains a political feat within a literary industry that focuses primarily on the upper-caste Hindus. In a way, Kocharethi is an assertion of the autonomous identity of the Adivasi communities in general and the Malayaraya people in particular. This article therefore engages with complex insights into the relationship between the Adivasi identity, Christianity and Hinduism and how these religions have dehumanized and accepted the people within the fold only on their own terms. The article looks into the important arguments about affirmative action, such as the policy of reservation for Dalits and Adivasis, and one of the transformations that the Malayaraya community underwent, that of conversion to Christianity. When it comes to the women of this community, it is even more complex. Hence, this article is also an attempt to reread the text by Kerala’s first Adivasi novelist, Narayan, from a feminist perspective without undermining the unique and significant position that it holds in Adivasi literature. It further looks at the issues of Adivasi women, specifically the Malayaraya women, and also analyses the patriarchal structure that is depicted in the text. The transition that the community makes due to modernity is placed subsequently.
Book review: Scott R. Stroud, The Evolution of Pragmatism in India: An Intellectual Biography of B. R. Ambedkar
Authors: Waldekar Shivani
Published: May 2024

Scott R. Stroud, The Evolution of Pragmatism in India: An Intellectual Biography of B. R. Ambedkar. Haryana: HarperCollins Publishers India, 2023, 302 pp., ₹599 (Paperback). ISBN: 9789356991101.