bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy based damage model for low-cycle fatigue of ductile materials
Authors: Perović Zoran B , Šumarac Dragoslav M , Ćorić Stanko B , Knežević Petar M , Cao Maosen , Nurković Ismail
Published: September 2024

A uniaxial material model for fatigue damage accumulation, established on the connection of unit elements, is presented in this paper. Although these units are regarded as micro-elements in the proposed model, they are based on a hysteretic operator that enables calculating hysteretic energy loss as an analytical expression. Further, this unit element represents a mechanical model with elastoplastic damage behavior in function of strain. The second level of modeling is defined by the connection of these units (micro-elements) with different values of total energy dissipated at failure. By changing the distribution of dissipated energy limit, various fatigue damage evolution laws are developed. Calculation of total and hysteretic energy loss in one loading cycle is also affected by fatigue damage as the varying number of unit elements are been eliminated when their maximum dissipation energy is reached. Material parameters for the model were defined based on the experimental monotonic and cyclic stress-strain tests, still, detailed comparison was not performed as the main advantage and aim of the paper was the development of the method for assessment of damage evolution in fatigue analysis. On the other hand, the number of cycles to failure ( Nf) and total heat dissipation are compared in both qualitative and quantitative aspects with experimental results. Finally, based on the proposed model, mean strain and load sequence effect diagrams were constructed. It is shown that the proposed model can provide a reliable estimation of fatigue life in the low-cycle regime of loading. The maximum error for the calculated Nf was 3% for constant strain loading for experiments with strain amplitude less than 5%. In load sequence fatigue life estimation, the proposed model demonstrated good accuracy, with a maximum error of 34%. Further, obtained results were achieved with different types of damage evolution that could be defined for the same material and fatigue life.
Familial Trafficking: History, Consequences, and Clinical Recommendations
Authors: Sidun Nancy , Dryjanska Laura
Published: September 2024

Familial trafficking is a form of human trafficking that refers to the trafficking being perpetrated by family members. While more research is available on familial sex trafficking, minors have also been exploited in other forms of human trafficking, such as labor trafficking (e.g., in manufacturing, agriculture, domestic servitude, begging, and criminal activities). The involvement of family members varies and may consist of ongoing exploitation. At the same time, the child lives at home or a decision to “sell” the child to traffickers in exchange for money, debt reduction, drugs, and more. Historically, there has been evidence globally of various practices that could today be defined as familial trafficking. The reasons behind familial trafficking are complex and related to several factors, such as culture, community, and individual characteristics of each family member. The framework of risk factors frequently used in human trafficking studies can shed some light on the driving forces of familial trafficking. The consequences of being trafficked by a family member are delineated, and treatment considerations are offered.
Renal Solitary Fibrous Tumor With Müllerian Cysts: A Novel Differential Diagnosis for Biphasic Renal Neoplasms
Authors: Saad Mohammed , Kilic Irem , Segura Sheila , Ulbright Thomas M. , Mesa Hector
Published: September 2024

Solitary fibrous tumor is an uncommon mesenchymal neoplasm, initially described in the pleura and infrequently found in the kidney. It is characterized by haphazardly arranged spindle cells, staghorn vasculature, coexpression of CD34 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), and a NAB2::STAT6 gene fusion. We report a 64-year-old woman who presented with a 2.5 cm multilocular cystic renal mass. On microscopic examination, the tumor consisted of a spindle cell component closely intermingled with ciliated and hemorrhagic epithelial cysts. The spindle cell component was positive for CD34, B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2), and STAT6, confirming the diagnosis of a solitary fibrous tumor. The epithelial cysts expressed keratin 7, PAX8, BCL2, estrogen receptor 1, and progesterone receptor, indicative of Müllerian cysts. The occurrence of solitary fibrous tumor in the kidney is extremely rare, and its association with Müllerian cysts has not been previously reported in the kidney. This morphologic variant has a striking similarity with biphasic renal neoplasms, especially with mixed epithelial and stromal tumors and angiomyolipoma with epithelial cysts. This report describes a novel renal solitary fibrous tumor subtype within this differential and underscores clinical and pathological distinctions of biphasic renal neoplasms.
Incidentally Detected ALK-Positive Histiocytosis with EML4::ALK Fusion in a Solitary Pulmonary Nodule Following COVID-19 Infection: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Kolik Ali Kubilay , Bakkaloğlu Doğu Vurallı , Yilmaz Ismail , Cakir Mehmet Semih , Yegen Gulcin , Kara Murat , Özlük Yasemin
Published: September 2024

We hereby report a patient with ALK-positive histiocytosis with localized lung involvement. A 47-year-old woman presented with a solitary pulmonary nodule in the left upper lobe, 7 months after COVID infection. A well-defined 15 mm yellow mass was found in trisegmentectomy specimen. Histopathological examination revealed that the mass was composed of epithelioid and spindle cells with foamy cytoplasms. No necrosis, pleomorphism, or nuclear atypia was detected. The cells were positive for CD68, CD163, PU.1, ALK and negative for KRT, smooth muscle actin (SMA), S100, Melan-A, CD34, STAT6, and BRAF VE1. Flourescence in situ hybridization demonstrated ALK gene rearrangement, and next generation sequencing confirmed EML4::ALK fusion. Lung involvement in ALK-positive histiocytosis is characterized by the presence of pulmonary nodules, which can be seen in all forms of the disease. However, lung involvement is rarely seen in single-system ALK-positive histiocytosis. Our report represents the fourth documented instance of localized lung involvement in ALK-positive histiocytosis, an exceedingly rare occurrence, and it is the third instance with available molecular data.
Dignity at Work: A Critical Conceptual Framework and Research Agenda
Authors: Blustein David L. , Allan Blake A.
Published: September 2024

This article provides a narrative review of the literature on dignity at work with a focus on social justice perspectives, which informs the development of a conceptual framework to guide future theory, research, practice, and public policies. Dignity at work encompasses earned and inherent dignity; the capacity for autonomous action; the affirmation of diversity; access to decent and humane work conditions; freedom to organize and resist; and opportunities for contribution, meaningfulness, and achievement. The literature review highlighted the diverse disciplinary and conceptual frameworks that inform how dignity at work is defined and understood along with a review of relevant empirical literature exploring the nature, antecedents, and outcomes of dignity at work. We presented a critical conceptual model that includes macro-level, work-based and relational conditions, systems of oppression, and resistance as the context for understanding dignity at work and its outcomes. The paper concluded with directions for future research and implications for practice and public policy.
Plantar Fascia Thickness and Stiffness in Healthy Individuals vs Patients With Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Thanwisate Tanwarat , Siriwanarangsun Palanan , Piyaselakul Sitha , Tharmviboonsri Theerawoot , Chuckpaiwong Bavornrit
Published: September 2024

Background:

Plantar fasciitis is a major cause of heel pain, resulting from repetitive trauma to the plantar fascia and leading to structural changes within the fascia. It has been observed that plantar fascia thickness in plantar fasciitis patients exceeds that of normal individuals. However, the biomechanical properties of the plantar fascia in patients with plantar fasciitis remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare plantar fascia stiffness between healthy individuals and patients with plantar fasciitis across different areas.

Methods:

Fifty-eight participants were divided into 2 groups: 29 healthy individuals and 29 individuals with plantar fasciitis. B-mode ultrasonography was used to assess plantar fascia thickness, whereas shear wave elastography was employed to measure plantar fascia stiffness. The study focused on 3 distinct areas: calcaneal insertion, 1-cm distal area, and 2-cm distal area. Additionally, the most painful area reported by patients was marked in the plantar fasciitis group.

Results:

The findings showed that the plantar fasciitis group exhibited significantly greater plantar fascia stiffness in almost all areas compared to the healthy group ( P < .05). Moreover, the stiffness of the plantar fascia in the most painful area demonstrated the highest value compared with other areas within the plantar fasciitis group ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

This study suggests structural and mechanical changes in the plantar fascia in patients with plantar fasciitis.
Caring for Families of Patients With Acquired Brain Injury Early During Hospitalization: A Feasibility Study of the SAFIR© Intervention
Authors: de Goumoëns Véronique , Bruyere Krystel , Rutz Dionys , Pasquier Jérôme , Bettex Yann-Olivier , Vasserot Krystel , Ryvlin Philippe , Ramelet Anne-Sylvie
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a complex family nursing intervention (SAFIR©) designed to support families of patients with acquired brain injuries during the early phase of hospitalization, using a one-group pre- and post-test design with a one-month follow-up. Family members participated in four family meetings. Quantitative data were collected using an intervention protocol checklist and questionnaires. Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, written open-ended questions, and note-taking. Feasibility outcomes revealed a family recruitment rate of 15.4% and a retention rate of 100%. Protocol adherence ranged from 94% in Phase 1 to 78% in Phase 3. Our results indicated that the intervention was meaningful and suitable for family members (n=7), healthcare provider (n=1), and nursing managers (n=6). From a sustainability perspective, our findings suggest the need to formally involve the entire inter-professional team in the intervention. Further evaluation of the intervention is warranted through a large-scale experimental.
Advanced Machine Learning Models for Predicting Post-Thrombolysis Hemorrhagic Transformation in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jiang You-li , Zhao Qing-shi , Li Ao , Wu Zong-bi , Liu Lin-lin , Lin Fu , Li Yan-feng
Published: September 2024

Background: Thrombolytic therapy is essential for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) management but poses a risk of hemorrhagic transformation (HT), necessitating accurate prediction to optimize patient care. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar, covering studies from inception until July 10, 2024. Studies were included if they used machine learning (ML) or deep learning algorithms to predict HT in AIS patients treated with thrombolysis. Exclusion criteria included studies involving endovascular treatments and those not evaluating model effectiveness. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed following PRISMA guidelines and using the Transparent Reporting of a Multivariable Prediction Model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis (TRIPOD) and Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) tools. Results: Out of 1943 identified records, 12 studies were included in the final analysis, encompassing 18 007 AIS patients who received thrombolytic therapy. The ML models demonstrated high predictive performance, with pooled area under the curve (AUC) values ranging from 0.79 to 0.95. Specifically, XGBoost models achieved AUCs of up to 0.953 and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models reached up to 0.942. Sensitivity and specificity varied significantly, with the highest sensitivity at 0.90 and specificity at 0.99. Significant predictors of HT included age, glucose levels, NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and radiomic features. Despite these promising results, methodological disparities and limited external validation highlighted the need for standardized reporting and further rigorous testing. Conclusion: ML techniques, especially XGBoost and ANN, show great promise in predicting HT following thrombolysis in AIS patients, enhancing risk stratification and clinical decision-making. Future research should focus on prospective study designs, standardized reporting, and integrating ML assessments into clinical workflows to improve AIS management and patient outcomes.
A spatial six-dimensional force measurement method based on acceleration sensors
Authors: He Shuai , Sun Xiangyang , Xu Anpeng , Zhu He , Xu Zhenbang
Published: September 2024

Accurate measurement of disturbance forces is an essential prerequisite for the simulation and analysis of micro-vibrations of space optical devices. Most of the current force measurement methods are based on force sensors, which have problems such as serious coupling between sensors, and the measurement accuracy is easily affected by the preload force. In order to solve these problems, a six-dimensional disturbance force measurement method based on acceleration sensors is proposed in this paper. First, the basic structure of the force measurement platform is introduced, and then the dynamics model of the platform is established and its force measurement principle is analyzed. Then the simulation analysis of the measurement accuracy of the platform is carried out by the Monte Carlo method. The analysis results show that the measurement accuracy of the disturbance force is proportional to the measurement accuracy of the acceleration sensor and the mass matrix recognition accuracy. When the errors of the acceleration sensor and mass matrix are within the normal range, the measurement error of the force measurement platform is less than 15%. Finally, a single-degree-of-freedom disturbance force measurement verification platform is built, and the test results show that the disturbance force is basically proportional to the acceleration of the platform when it is far from the resonance frequency, which verifies the correctness of the method to a certain extent. The measurement method is simple in structure and easy to implement, and can perform real-time measurement. Moreover, the measurement frequency is wide and the resolution is high, which is suitable for the measurement of disturbance force in the form of sinusoidal vibration or multi-frequency line spectrum.
Integrating of LMIs with Buckingham Π theorem for control of uncertain oscillating systems
Authors: Palizvan Zand Javad , Katebi Javad , Zhang Chunwei
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces a novel framework for robust controller synthesis in oscillating systems by synergistically combining generalized linear matrix inequalities (GLMIs) with the Buckingham Π theorem. The primary goal is to enhance the design of robust controllers for systems with uncertain parameters through the exploitation of dimensionless groups derived from the Buckingham Π theorem. By establishing a dimensionless state-space representation, the proposed approach demonstrates adaptability to a broad spectrum of similar systems. The LMI-based formulation facilitates the systematic design of controllers capable of effectively mitigating the impact of parametric uncertainties. Simulation results for an uncertain inverted pendulum and a vehicle active suspension system validate the superior performance of the proposed method compared to conventional control techniques, such as MPC, LQG, SMC, PID, and LQR. For the uncertain inverted pendulum system, the proposed robust control scheme achieves a cart position stabilization in 5.35 s and pendulum stabilization in 6.3 s, which is faster than standard control algorithms. In the context of the vehicle active suspension system, the performance indices for sprung mass acceleration, suspension deflection, and tire deflection are 0.19, 0.47, and 0.07, respectively. These values indicate significant reductions when compared to conventional passive suspension systems and standard robust control methodologies.
“Norman Denzin as a Firestarter”
Authors: Forber-Pratt Anjali J.
Published: September 2024

Remarks from May 16, 2024 from the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry’s Memorial for Norman Denzin.
Letrozole-induced reversible acute heart failure
Authors: Sekmek Serhat , Bayram Dogan , Seven Ismet , Perkin Perihan , Bal Oznur , Algin Efnan
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor (AI), which suppresses plasma estrogen levels by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, that causes the conversion of androgens to estrogen in peripheral tissues. There is very few information in the literature regarding the development of acute heart failure after AI use. We would like to report a case of a patient who was started letrozole for hormonal treatment and developed acute heart failure due to this.

Case report

Fifty-seven-year-old woman with hormone positive breast cancer was operated after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and received radiotherapy. Letrozole treatment was initiated after radiotherapy and the patient presented to the emergency department after two weeks with cough and dyspnea. Ejection fraction decreased to 20% and acute heart failure developed.

Management and outcome

Letrozole treatment was stopped. Afterwards, improvement in the patient's cardiac functions was observed. Letrozole-induced heart failure was thought to be reversible.

Discussion

Letrozole is one of the most commonly used HT in the treatment of hormone positive breast cancer. It may rarely cause cardiac side effects. It is very important to make patients aware of these issues and to be consulted by cardiology in case of possible cardiac symptoms.
What About Language?: A Mixed Methods Examination of the Impact of Person-Centered Language on Students’ Perceptions of Individuals Who Commit Sex Offenses
Authors: Belisle Linsey A. , Marshall Ethan A. , Butler Makayla M.
Published: September 2024

Person-centered language is a well-known approach to reducing stigmatizing labels among marginalized groups. However, little research has explored person-centered language’s impact in criminal justice classrooms. Utilizing a mixed-method research design, this study explores the impact of person-centered language on students’ perceptions of persons convicted of sex offenses. The study used three sections of an online Sex Crimes course. The course sections were identical, except for the language used and awareness of person-centered language; the control group section did not utilize person-centered language, the second section utilized person-centered language, and the third section utilized person-centered language and was given an informational lecture on stigmatizing language. Quantitative data was collected from the Perceptions of Sex Offenders Scale at the beginning and end of the semester. Students’ end-of-semester reflection papers served as the qualitative component. The findings suggest shifts in punitive attitudes toward sentencing and management for the group exposed to person-centered language and the informational lecture. These differences were not apparent for the other groups and subscales. While qualitative data provided a more in-depth understanding of students’ perceptions, overall, exposure to person-centered language didn’t seem to impact student perceptions. However, exposure alongside a lecture about person-centered language, seemingly had a more pronounced impact on students’ perceptions, suggesting that transparency surrounding language and reducing stigma are important components of person-centered language. The findings have implications for using person-centered language for criminal justice pedagogical practices, as well as considerations beyond the classroom (e.g., program development and curricula).
A Comparison of Passive Rewarming Systems Following Cold Water Immersion
Authors: Wallace Phillip J. , Hodgkinson Matthew L. , Ramagnano Lucas , Janjuha Ramneek Singh , Andrade Mariska J. , Cheung Stephen S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

We studied field rewarming using a typical winter sleeping bag versus two heated hypothermia wrap systems in a semi-realistic lab simulation.

Methods

10 participants (8 M, 2 F) were cooled to 36.1°C core temperature through 10.5-11.5°C water immersion, then performed 60 min of passive rewarming in 0°C air. The rewarming methods tested were: 1) a −9°C rated mummy-style Sleeping Bag; 2) Doctor Down Rescue Wrap; and 3) Thermal Yielding Vascular Airway Capsule (TYVAC) system; the latter two methods included vapor barriers and two heating pads. Rectal and skin temperatures, along with metabolic heat production calculated via indirect calorimetry, were measured throughout rewarming.

Results

One male participant was removed from analysis due to lack of sufficient cooling. Rectal temperature decreased in the remaining participants by ∼1.1–1.2°C to 36.1°C during the initial immersion phase. Over the 60 min of rewarming, rectal temperature changes were Δ0.0 ± 0.6°C in a sleeping bag, Δ+0.2 ± 0.3°C in Doctor Down, and Δ+0.2 ± 0.3°C in TYVAC, with no significant differences across methods. Mean skin temperatures, metabolic heat production, and perceptual measures were also similar across methods with no method×time interactions.

Conclusions

After 60 min of passive rewarming in cold conditions, all three rewarming methods were able to stall continued core cooling to levels at or slightly above post-immersion temperatures. With no differences in any physiological measures, it appears that all three rewarming methods are equally viable options for wilderness responders, and the choice should come down to environmetal conditions, availability, convenience, and ergonomics rather than rewarming efficacy.
In Utero Exposure to Di-n-butyl Phthalate Causes Modulation in Neurotransmitter System of Wistar Rats: A Multigenerational Assessment
Authors: Radha MJ , Basha Mahaboob P.
Published: September 2024

Neuroendocrine regulation is disrupted by di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) when exposure occurs during the critical periods of fetal development, which can lead to neurological disorders. To evaluate the toxic potential of DBP, it is necessary to conduct teratological studies, which could determine impacts on the development of the fetus. The present study was designed to understand the sequelae of neuroendocrine regulation in one-month-old pups when rats were exposed to DBP (F1–F3) in utero and during lactation. The rats received DBP (500 mg/kg BW/day) dissolved in olive oil through oral gavage from gestation day 6 to postnatal day 30, while the control group received the olive oil (vehicle) during the same timeline. Following the exposure, thyroid profile and estradiol, which were measured at GD-19, exhibited a significant decrease ( P < 0.05) in dams (F0–F2). The exposure resulted in developmental outcomes, including underdeveloped fetuses, and a notable number of resorptions in experimental rats. The one-month-old pups were assessed for serum thyroid profile and testosterone and neurotransmitters in discrete brain regions, cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus for up to three generations. The levels of dopamine and cortisol showed a significant increase ( P < 0.05), but serotonin levels decreased when examined in distinct brain regions of the experimental group as compared to the control. DBP, which is considered an endocrine disruptor, had the most impact on the third generation in this study, leading to a significant decrease in testosterone levels. In summary, in utero exposure to DBP impaired the neuroendocrine system and had an antiandrogenic effect in the three successive generations.
One Size Does Not Fit All: Unraveling Item Response Process Heterogeneity Using the Mixture Dominance-Unfolding Model (MixDUM)
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chalmers R. Philip , Li Lingyue , Sun Tianjun , Tay Louis
Published: September 2024

When modeling responses to items measuring non-cognitive constructs that require introspection (e.g., personality, attitude), most studies have assumed that respondents follow the same item response process—either a dominance or an unfolding one. Nevertheless, the results are not equivocal, as some preliminary evidence suggests that some people use an unfolding response process, whereas others use a dominance response process. To enhance item response modeling, it is critical to develop measurement models that can accommodate heterogeneity in the item response processes. Therefore, we proposed the Mixture Dominance-Unfolding Model (MixDUM) to formally identify this potential population heterogeneity. Monte Carlo simulations showed that MixDUM possessed reasonably good statistical properties. Moreover, ignoring item response process heterogeneity was detrimental to item parameter estimation and led to less accurate selection outcomes. An empirical study was conducted in which respondents completed focal personality scales under either an honest condition or a simulated job application condition, to demonstrate the utility of MixDUM. The findings indicated (1) that MixDUM provided the best fit across scales, (2) that approximately 55–60% of respondents utilized an unfolding response process, (3) that respondents exhibited moderate consistency in their use of response processes across scales, (4) that narcissism consistently negatively predicted the use of an unfolding response process, and (5) that the criterion-related validity of focal personality scores varied across latent classes for certain criteria. To encourage its use, we provided a tutorial on the implementation of MixDUM in the R package mirt.
Disclaimers for the Non-Reporting of Sexual Harassment within the Swedish Police
Authors: Wieslander Malin , Lundgren Silje
Published: September 2024

This article analyses reasons for not reporting sexual harassment within the Swedish police. The empirical data consisting of interviews, participant observation, testimonies from the police #MeToo call, and internal police investigations is analysed through tracing ‘disclaimers’, a form of discursive devices aligning actions to restore meaning. The article identifies 20 disclaimers that represent distinct reasons for not reporting sexual harassment perpetrated by colleagues and supervisors. These disclaimers shed light on police cultural norms and what we label as ‘male network acceptance’, that together with organisational factors influence the un/willingness to report experiences of sexual harassment. The findings show that sexual harassment is renegotiated when perpetrated by colleagues, and that both the harassed and bystanders doubt that reporting will lead to positive impacts. There is therefore a need to develop and implement alternative ways of handling sexual harassment that enable a shift from individual guilt, and re-frame sexual harassment as an issue of collegial concern.
Immune-Related Long Non-Coding RNA Signature Determines Prognosis and Immunotherapeutic Coherence in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Uttam Vivek , Kapoor Harmanpreet Singh , Rana Manjit Kaur , Yadav Ritu , Prakash Hridayesh , Jain Manju , Tuli Hardeep Singh , Jain Aklank
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

Aim of this study was to explore the immune-related lncRNAs having prognostic role and establishing risk score model for better prognosis and immunotherapeutic coherence for esophageal cancer (EC) patients.

Methods:

To determine the role of immune-related lncRNAs in EC, we analyzed the RNA-seq expression data of 162 EC patients and 11 non-cancerous individuals and their clinically relevant information from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database. Bioinformatic and statistical analysis such as Differential expression analysis, co-expression analysis, Kaplan Meier survival analysis, Cox proportional hazards model, ROC analysis of risk model was employed.

Results:

Utilizing a cutoff criterion (log2FC > 1 + log2FC < −1 and FDR < 0.01), we identified 3737 RNAs were significantly differentially expressed in EC patients. Among these, 2222 genes were classified as significantly differentially expressed mRNAs (demRNAs), and 966 were significantly differentially expressed lncRNAs (delncRNA). Through Pearson correlation analysis between differentially expressed lncRNAs and immune related-mRNAs, we identified 12 immune-related lncRNAs as prognostic signatures for EC. Notably, through Kaplan-Meier analysis on these lncRNAs, we found the low-risk group patients showed significantly improved survival compared to the high-risk group. Moreover, this prognostic signature has consistent performance across training, testing and entire validation cohort sets. Using ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithm we further observed significant enriched infiltration of naive B cells, regulatory T cells resting CD4+ memory T cells, and, plasma cells in the low-risk group compared to high-risk EC patients group. On the contrary, tumor-associated M2 macrophages were highly enriched in high-risk patients. Additionally, we confirmed immune-related biological functions and pathways such as inflammatory, cytokines, chemokines response and natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, toll-like receptor signaling pathways, JAK-STAT signaling pathways, chemokine signaling pathways significantly associated with identified IRlncRNA signature and their co-expressed immune genes. Furthermore, we assessed the predictive potential of the lncRNA signature in immune checkpoint inhibitors; we found that programed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1; P-value = .048), programed cell death ligand 2 (PD-L2; P-value = .002), and T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3; P-value = .045) expression levels were significantly higher in low-risk patients compared to high-risk patients.

Conclusion:

We believe this study will contribute to better prognosis prediction and targeted treatment of EC in the future.
Adopting Integrated Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Approaches to Pinpoint the COVID-19 Patients’ Risk Factors That Uplift the Onset of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Ahmed Sabbir , Hossain Md Arju , Bristy Sadia Afrin , Ali Md Shahjahan , Rahman Md Habibur
Published: September 2024

Owing to the recent emergence of COVID-19, there is a lack of published research and clinical recommendations for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) risk factors in patients who contracted or received treatment for the virus. This research aims to identify potential molecular targets to inform therapeutic strategies for this patient population. RNA sequence data for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and PTSD (from the National Center for Biotechnology Information [NCBI]) were processed using the GREIN database. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks, pathway enrichment analyses, miRNA interactions, gene regulatory network (GRN) studies, and identification of linked drugs, chemicals, and diseases were conducted using STRING, DAVID, Enrichr, Metascape, ShinyGO, and NetworkAnalyst v3.0. Our analysis identified 15 potentially unique hub proteins within significantly enriched pathways, including PSMB9, MX1, HLA-DOB, HLA-DRA, IFIT3, OASL, RSAD2, and so on, filtered from a pool of 201 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology (GO) terms and metabolic pathway analyses revealed the significance of the extracellular region, extracellular space, extracellular exosome, adaptive immune system, and interleukin (IL)-18 signaling pathways. In addition, we discovered several miRNAs (hsa-mir-124-3p, hsa-mir-146a-5p, hsa-mir-148b-3p, and hsa-mir-21-3p), transcription factors (TF) (WRNIP1, FOXC1, GATA2, CREB1, and RELA), a potentially repurposable drug carfilzomib and chemicals (tetrachlorodibenzodioxin, estradiol, arsenic trioxide, and valproic acid) that could regulate the expression levels of hub proteins at both the transcription and posttranscription stages. Our investigations have identified several potential therapeutic targets that elucidate the probability that victims of COVID-19 experience PTSD. However, they require further exploration through clinical and pharmacological studies to explain their efficacy in preventing PTSD in COVID-19 patients.
The Influencing Factors of Psychosocial Adaptation of Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhu Hanjing , Yang Linning , Yin Hongfan , Yuan Xia , Gu Jia , Yang Yan
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

The psycho-social adaptation of cancer patients is very important, which affects the treatment, rehabilitation process and prognosis of patients, and is closely related to the subjective well-being and quality of life of patients. However, the key factors affecting the psycho-social adjustment of cancer patients are not clear yet. This study aims to evaluate the psycho-social adaptation of cancer patients and its influencing factors based on a meta-analysis.

Basic procedures:

The Systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist and guided by the society-to-cell model framework. Literature retrieval was conducted from the construction of the library to December 2023.

Main findings:

Fourteen pieces of literature were included in this study, with a total sample size of 2922 cases. Among the 14 literatures included, 9 were in English and 5 were in Chinese, published between 1991 and 2021. All of the 14 literatures were cross-sectional studies. According to the society-to-cells model framework, the influencing factors are divided into 5 levels: society, community, family, individual, and physiology. However, studies related to the cellular level are lacking.

Principal conclusions:

The psychosocial adaptation of cancer patients is affected by physiology, individual, family, community and society, among which age, education level, disease uncertainty, hope level, psychological pain, self-efficacy, social support, coping styles (facing, avoidance, submission, and emotion-oriented) are the main factors affecting the psychosocial adaptation of cancer patients. However, studies related to the cellular level are lacking. This may be due to the fact that most of the factors from the individual to the society level are intervenable, and most studies focus more on the mining of these levels of factors. However, the biological basis is crucial to the occurrence and development of diseases, and needs to be paid attention to by nursing staff, and further research on this level needs to be strengthened in the future.
Dietary and Lifestyle Insulinemic Potential Indices and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome Among Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hojati Ali , Abbasalizad Farhangi Mahdieh
Published: September 2024

Background:

As a worldwide pandemic, metabolic syndrome (MetS) is related with high disease burden. The emergence of multiple chronic diseases can be attributed to unfavorable dietary and lifestyle choices made by individuals, with hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance as the underlying causes. Current study sought to assess the relationship between the Empirical Dietary Index for Hyperinsulinemia (EDIH) and the Empirical Lifestyle Index for Hyperinsulinemia (ELIH) and MetS risk factors.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study involved 339 individuals between the ages of 20 and 50, who were either obese or overweight, and were recruited from Tabriz, Iran. In this study, a validated semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) with 168 questions was used to assess individuals’ food consumption. Blood tests were performed to assess total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG) levels, as well as blood glucose and insulin levels.

Results:

After multivariable adjustment, among tertiles of EDIH, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and TG were significantly different. Also, SBP, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and HDL-C significantly differed across tertiles of ELIH. In multivariate-adjusted models, individuals classified in the highest tertile of EDIH demonstrated elevated ORs in relation to FBG levels [OR: 1.035 (1.004-1.068; P < .05)], and the second tertile of ELIH was inversely associated with SBP [OR: 0.966 (0.935-0.999; P < .05)], DBP [OR: 0.972 (0.948-0.997; P < .05)], TG in the model I [OR: 0.991 (0.983-0.999; P < .05)], and model II [OR: 0.991 (0.983-0.999; P < .05)].

Conclusion:

Considering the findings of our study, higher insulinemic dietary potential, indicated by EDIH, can be related to higher odds of FBG and decreased odds of TG as risk factors of MetS. Furthermore, our findings suggest that individuals with a higher ELIH may potentially exhibit lower SBP and DBP levels. Nevertheless, further experimental and long-term investigations are necessary to fully comprehend this association.
A Novel Porphyromonas gingivalis Infection-Related Inflammatory Response-Related Genes Signature Predicts the Prognosis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kong Jinyu , Liu Yiwen , Wang Jian , Qian Mengfan , Sun Wei , Xing Ling
Published: September 2024

Background:

Our previous research showed that Porphyromonas gingivalis ( P. gingivalis) infection can activate the inflammatory signaling pathway and promotes the malignancy development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the prognostic significance of inflammatory response-related genes (IRRGs) in P. gingivalis-infected ESCC requires further elucidation. Hence, our study constructed a prognostic signature based on P. gingivalis and IRRGs to forecast the survival of patients with ESCC, which may provide insight into new treatment options for ESCC patients.

Methods:

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in P.gingivalis-infected and P.gingivalis-uninfected ESCC cell by RNA sequencing. A risk model was constructed and validated using the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database by using univariate Cox regression analysis, LASSO, and the multivariate Cox regression analysis. Kaplan-Meier analysis was carried out to compare the overall survival (OS) between high-risk and low-risk groups. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis was used to analyze the immune cell infiltration. The Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database was used to predict drug sensitivity.

Results:

There were 365 DEGs between the P.gingivalis-infected and P.gingivalis-uninfected groups. Four genes including DKK1, ESRRB, EREG, and RELN were identified to construct the prognostic risk model ( P = .012, C-index = 0.73). In both the training and validation sets, patients had a considerably shorter OS in the high-risk group than those in the low-risk group ( P < .05). A nomogram was established using the risk score, gender, and N stage which could effectively forecast the prognosis of patients ( P = .016, C-index = 0.66). The high-risk group displayed lower immune infiltrating cells, such as activated dendritic cells, type 2 T helper cells, and neutrophils ( P < .05). A total of 41 drugs, including dactinomycin, luminespib, and sepantronium bromide, had a significant difference in IC50 between the 2 subgroups.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated the potential of a novel signature constructed from 4 P. gingivalis-related IRRGs for prognostic prediction in ESCC patients.
Five-year efficacy outcomes of ocrelizumab in relapsing multiple sclerosis: A propensity-matched comparison of the OPERA studies with other disease-modifying therapies in real-world lines of treatments
Authors: Muros-Le Rouzic Erwan , Heer Yanic , Yiu Sean , Tozzi Viola , Braune Stefan , van Hövell Philip , Bergmann Arnfin , Bernasconi Corrado , Model Fabian , Craveiro Licinio ,   on behalf of the NTD study group
Published: September 2024

Background

Clinical trials comparing the efficacy of ocrelizumab (OCR) with other disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) other than interferon (IFN) β-1a in relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) are lacking.

Objectives

To compare the treatment effect of OCR vs six DMTs’ (IFN β-1a, glatiramer acetate, fingolimod, dimethyl fumarate, teriflunomide, natalizumab) treatment pathways used in clinical practice by combining clinical trial and real-world data.

Methods

Patient-level data from OPERA trials and open-label extension phase, and from the German NeuroTransData (NTD) MS registry, were used to build 1:1 propensity score-matched (PSM) cohorts controlling for seven baseline covariates, including brain imaging activity. Efficacy outcomes were time to first relapse and time to 24-week confirmed disability progression over 5.5 years of follow-up. Intention-to-treat analysis using all outcome data irrespective of treatment switch was applied.

Results

The analyses included 611 OPERA patients and 7141 NTD patients. We built 12 paired-matched cohorts (six for each outcome, two for each DMT) to compare efficacy of OCR in OPERA with each DMT treatment pathway in NTD. Post-matching, baseline covariates and PS were well balanced (standardized mean difference <.2 for all cohorts). Over 5.5 years, patients treated with OCR showed a statistically significant reduction in the risk of relapse (hazard ratios [HRs] .30 to .54) and disability progression (HRs .51 to .67) compared with all index therapies and their treatment switching pathways in NTD. Treatment switch and/or discontinuation occurred frequently in NTD cohorts.

Conclusion

OCR demonstrates superiority in controlling relapses and disability progression in RMS compared with real-world treatment pathways over a 5.5-year period. These analyses suggest that high-efficacy DMTs and high treatment persistence are critical to achieve greatest clinical benefit in RMS.

Registration

OPERA I (NCT01247324), OPERA II (NCT01412333)
Brain hemodynamic responses and fall prediction in older adults with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Holtzer Roee , Foley Frederick W , Motl Robert W , Wagshul Mark E , Hernandez Manuel E , Lipton Michael L , Picone Mary Ann , Izzetoglu Meltem
Published: September 2024

Objective:

We examined whether brain hemodynamic responses, gait, and cognitive performances under single- and dual-task conditions predict falls during longitudinal follow-up in older adults with multiple sclerosis (OAMS) with relapsing-remitting and progressive subtypes.

Methods:

Participants with relapsing-remitting ( n = 53, mean age = 65.02 ± 4.17 years, %female = 75.5) and progressive ( n = 28, mean age = 64.64 ± 4.31 years, %female = 50) multiple sclerosis (MS) subtypes completed a dual-task-walking paradigm and reported falls during longitudinal follow-up using a monthly structured telephone interview. We used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to assess oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO) in the prefrontal cortex during active walking and while performing a cognitive test under single- and dual-task conditions.

Results:

Adjusted general estimating equations models indicated that higher HbO under dual-task walking was significantly associated with a reduction in the odds of reporting falls among participants with relapsing-remitting (odds ratio (OR) = 0.472, p = 0.004, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.284–0.785), but not progressive (OR = 1.056, p = 0.792, 95% CI = 0.703–1.588) MS. In contrast, faster stride velocity under dual-task walking was significantly associated with a reduction in the odds of reporting falls among progressive (OR = 0.658, p = 0.004, 95% CI = 0.495–0.874), but not relapsing-remitting (OR = 0.998, p = 0.995, 95% CI = 0.523–1.905) MS.

Conclusion:

Findings suggest that higher prefrontal cortex activation levels during dual-task walking, which may represent compensatory reallocation of brain resources, provide protection against falls for OAMS with relapsing-remitting subtype.
A cultural psychology gaze at the inclusion process in the school context
Authors: Sá Ana Luiza de França , Sakai Catarina Prado , Zucoloto Patrícia Carla Silva do Vale , Souza Jamile Oliveira Santana
Published: September 2024

Inclusion is a process of dynamic diversity through which people live. Specific settings where inclusion is mandatory (e.g., schools) call for preparing institutions to think about inclusion procedures rather than the included person. This paper aims to highlight the complexity of the inclusion process in the school context by building a representation based on a Cultural Psychology framework. To do this, we explain how some inclusion processes must integrate schools’ realities shaped in their contexts. The visual representation pictured through Cultural Psychology theory enhances the complexity and synthesis concerning individual and social dimensions. Change at any level can reverberate in others, leading to a comprehension of inclusion as an interconnected process that allows institutions to grasp the needs of children in an inclusion situation. The dialogicality propels meaning-making processes from various directions, creating room for changes at the social and individual levels. It must be done to enable diversity and development by unfolding institutional changes.
Adverse childhood experiences: A health risk in emerging adulthood
Authors: Quezada-Gaibor Katherine , Gomis-Pomares Aitana , Villanueva Lidón
Published: September 2024

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) represent a child’s exposure to negative events that are detrimental to their mental and physical health. Despite this, very few studies have focused on the relationship between ACEs and physical health problems, in non-English-speaking populations and in emerging adulthood. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the cumulative and differential impact of ACEs on diverse physical health problems in a Spanish population. Participants were 648 young adults (22% men), between the ages of 18 and 30 (mean age = 21.37, SD = 3.11), who completed the ACE Questionnaire and answered some questions about their health (e.g. asthma, obesity, global health). From the cumulative perspective, ACEs had a significant relationship with global health and asthma. Additionally, the differential approach revealed some specific ACEs related to three out of five health outcomes. Therefore, early detection of ACEs is of paramount importance to reduce their impact.