bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reanalysis of unsolved prenatal exome sequencing for structural defects: diagnostic yield and contribution of postnatal/postmortem features
Authors: BOURGON Nicolas , Thauvin-Robinet Christel , Garde Aurore , FAVIER Maud , Delanne Julian , Racine Caroline , rousseau thierry , Nambot Sophie , Bruel Ange-Line , MOUTTON Sébastien , Quelin Chloé , COLSON Cindy , BREHIN Anne-Claire , Guerrot Anne-Marie , Rooryck Caroline , Putoux Audrey , Blanchet Patricia , Odent Sylvie , Schaefer Elise , Boute Odile , Goldenberg Alice , Guichet Agnès , Abel Carine , MOREL Godelieve , FRADIN Mélanie , Isidor Bertrand , Vincent Marie , Francannet Christine , Vera Gabriella , Petit Florence , Nizon Mathilde , Wells Constance , Jeanne Médéric , DEILLET Caroline , ZIEGLER Alban , GODIN Manon , SAUGIER-VEBER Pascale , Cassinari Kévin , Blanc Pierre , Simon Emmanuel , Binquet Christine , Duffourd Yannis , Safraou Hana , Denommé-Pichon Anne-Sophie , Vitobello Antonio , Philippe Christophe , Faivre Laurence , Tran-Mau-Them Frédéric , Bourgon Nicolas
Published: August 2024

In 30-40% of fetuses with structural defects, the causal variant remains undiagnosed after karyotype, chromosomal microarray and exome sequencing. This study presents the results of a reanalysis of unsolved prenatal ES (pES) and investigates how postnatal/postmortem phenotyping contributes to identify relevant variants. Prospective reanalysis of pES data was performed in undiagnosed fetuses enrolled in the AnDDI-Prénatome cohort study. Postnatal/postmortem data up to 3 years were merged with prenatal features using HPO terms. The reanalysis involved updating the bioinformatic processing of raw data and periodic querying of the raw pES data using a GREP query. The reanalysis was performed in 58/94 (62%) unsolved pES, including 8 variants of unknown significance. Clinical examination at birth was available for all live newborns, and postmortem examination was available in 12 terminated fetuses. Additional features were identified in 27/58 fetuses (44%). The contribution of updated postnatal/postmortem phenotyping to the identification of relevant variants was limited. Only one new diagnosis was made, but thanks to the new implication of the SNAPC4 gene in the human disease rather than the additional clinical data provided by the postnatal update of the phenotype. Only one of the three additional VUS identified by reanalysis was also considered thanks to additional features provided by postmortem examination. In conclusion, in cases of unsolved pES, the benefit of prospective reanalysis of unsolved pES appears to be limited, even over time. It may be more appropriate to offer postnatal genome sequencing rather than pES reanalysis with postnatal/postmortem phenotyping update to establish a causal diagnosis.
Left Sided Round Ligament Mass co-existing with High Grade Serous Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma – A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ramu Sivalakshmi , Chandra Rudrika , Kumari Sarita
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
Leiomyoma of the round ligament has been reported as an isolated finding and more commonly over the right side. More than 50% of it is associated with fibroid uterus. There is no reported case in the literature of a left-sided leiomyoma of ligamentum rotundum, and its association with a high-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary.
Case Presentation:
We report a confirmed case of high-grade serous epithelial ovarian carcinoma of the ovary in a postmenopausal lady, with an intra-operative incidental finding of a round ligament mass. It was then surgically excised and sent for histopathological study.
Conclusion:
Round ligament leiomyoma coexisting with an invasive epithelial ovarian tumor is a rare entity. Round ligament leiomyomas can create diagnostic dilemmas of metastatic nodes in some cases.
Relationship between family socioeconomic status and toddlers’ social-emotional development : the mediation effects of home rearing environment
Authors: Xu Yuying , Meng Yanfei , Dong Xueli , Wang Suqing , Yu liping
Published: August 2024

Background
The development of children's social emotional ability is crucial for their future success. Increasing evidence suggests that families with low socioeconomic status negatively influence the development of children's social emotions, although the mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. The home rearing environment is the primary setting that toddlers are exposed to in their early years, significantly impacting their emotional development. This environment may be affected by the family’s economic situation.
Methods
A total of 370 healthy toddlers aged 12 to 36 months were recruited through the Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Wuhan. Socio-economic status was assessed using parents' education level and family income. The home environment was measured using the Child Home Nurture Environment Scales. Toddlers’ social-emotional was measured using the 12 to 36 months toddler social emotional questionnaire.
Results
The mean age of the toddlers was 27.71 ± 7.76 months. Family socioeconomic status, home rearing environment, and social-emotion development were significantly correlated (P < 0.05). Family socioeconomic status did not have a direct predictive effect on toddlers' social-emotional development. However, the family nurturing environment played a significant mediating role between family socioeconomic status and toddlers’ social-emotional outcomes, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.467–0.643.
Conclusions
Socioeconomic status may affect the social-emotional development of young children through the family upbringing environment. Health care workers should provide training on parenting knowledge to foster a positive family upbringing environment and mitigate the negative impact of low socioeconomic status on young children's emotional development.
Association of Dietary and Lifestyle Inflammation Score with sleep quality and mental health in hemodialysis patients: A multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Damaneh Mohadeseh Soleimani , Behbahani Hossein Bavi , Alipour Meysam , Javid Ahmad Zare , Keramatzadeh Sara , Shokri Shiva , Tofighzadeh Pardis , Fayazfar Fatemeh , Dehkordi Haleh Soltaniyan , Ghadimi Elahe , Esfandabad Siavash Babajafari , Shayanpour Shokouh
Published: August 2024

Background
Poor sleep quality and mental disorders are common issues among patients undergoing dialysis. Diet and lifestyle may be associated with sleep hygiene and mental health. The current study aimed to evaluate the association between the Dietary and Lifestyle Inflammation Score (DLIS) and mental health, and sleep quality among Iranian hemodialysis patients.
Methods
This multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted on 423 patients undergoing hemodialysis in eight centers in three cities. The DLIS was calculated using information from a validated 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Mental health was evaluated using the 21-item depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess sleep quality. Other assessments included physical activity levels, biochemical parameters, and dialysis data of patients. Statistical analyses using SPSS software were conducted to identify associations.
Results
The mean ± standard deviation of the age and BMI were 52.84 ± 14.63 years and 24.8 ± 5.11 kg/m2, respectively. 58.9% of participants were men. After controlling for potential confounders, participants in the top quartile of DLIS had greater odds of having poor sleep quality (OR: 3.18; 95% CI: 1.71–5.90), depression (OR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.06–3.54), anxiety (OR: 2.82; 95% CI: 1.51–5.27), and stress (OR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.14–4.03) compared with those in the bottom quartile.
Conclusion
Our findings showed that higher dietary and lifestyle inflammatory potential, characterized by higher DLIS, was positively associated with psychological disorders and poor sleep quality.
Exploring the trainee experience during a combined technical and non-technical skills obstetric training session on a simulated labour ward: A rapid ethnographic study
Authors: Siddharth Aditi , Nadia Muspratt Tucker , Nambiar Divya , Houlden Ruth , Aitken Debbie , Higham Helen
Published: August 2024

Background:
Obstetric training requires competence in both technical and non-technical skills (TS and NTS). Traditionally the acquisition of these skills is dependent on experience more than formal teaching. Simulation training can be an opportunity to bridge this gap in a safe environment. This study explores the impact of merging TS and NTS simulation into a single session of an obstetric on call on a simulated labour ward.
Methods:
All obsetric specialist trainees year 1 and 2 (ST1-2) from the Thames Valley Deanery (n = 14) participated in a 40 minute simulated labour ward oncall,managing patients on the labour and antenatal wards and maternity assessment unit. The trainees were divided into two groups, each group participated in the simulation followed by a focus group discussion. This study used rapid ethnography with in-situ observation, audio recordings, field notes and focus group interviews. Data analysis used Kopta’s 3 phase theorical framework of technical skill learning- cognitive, integrative and autonomous.
Results:
Trainees learnt TS in all three Kopta’s phases during this simulation. The trainee’s familiarity with the TS determined the phase of learning they achieved. For less familiar tasks, trainees were in the cognitive phase. The integrative phase was seen when the TS was partially familiar and required them to perform it in conjunction with the appropriate NTS. There was autonomous TS and NTS integration with tasks they were skilled in.
Conclusion:
Integrating TS and NTS simulation optimised the learning opportunities within one training session. This model is adaptable to various skill levels and specialities, without increasing trainee, faculty, or resource burden. Further exploration can broaden applicability of this approach across other specialities.
Assessment of symptom burden and quality of life in patients with primary brain tumors receiving palliative care in a tertiary cancer care centre
Authors: Padhi Pratyasa , Gupta Nishkarsh , Bharati Sachidanand Jee , Garg Rakesh , Mishra Seema , Bhatnagar Sushma , KP Haresh , Kumar Vinod
Published: August 2024

Background
Primary brain tumor patients present with a unique trajectory of illness, with an uncertain prognosis, a rapid decline in physical functioning and a significant worsening of quality of life.
Methods
The EORTC QLQ C30 & EORTC BN 20 questionnaires were used to assess quality of life and symptom burden in patients with primary brain tumors. The scores were analysed using SPSS statistical software.
Results
One hundred patients—61 males and 39 females—with radiological or histo-pathological diagnoses of primary brain tumors were included. Seizures (38%) were the most common presenting symptom (38%), followed by headache (18%), loss of consciousness (13%), focal neurological deficit (9%) and blurring of vision (8%). The mean quality of life at baseline was 78.29, with a standard deviation of 9.67 on a scale of 0 to 100, and the brain tumor-specific symptom burden score was 46.9, with a standard deviation of 17.95 on a scale of 0 to 100. There was a significant difference in the global health status score between the first visit and third visit, i.e., at three months (p value = 0.03).
Conclusion
Primary brain tumors are often aggressive and deemed incurable. Unaddressed symptoms such as fatigue and insomnia, future uncertainties and decreased social functioning are widely prevalent in such patients. The integration of palliative care in the treatment course is important to ensure good quality of life in such patients.
Navigating Uncertainty in Patient Care: A CLoser Look at Emergency Medicine Residents in Brazil
Authors: Boemeke Gabriela , Barbosa Larissa , Quintanilha Luiz , Avena Kátia , Andrade Bruno
Published: August 2024

Background. In emergency situations, the inexperience and complexity of cases can lead to uncertainty and stress among doctors, affecting their decision-making and negatively impacting patients and the healthcare system. Despite the importance of this topic, studies on uncertainty among Emergency Medicine residents are limited. Aim. Our study aims to investigate decision-making uncertainty among Emergency Medicine residents (EMR), identifying the most affected dimensions and assessing the impact of sociodemographic and academic profiles.
Methods. This is a cross-sectional study that includes EMR in Brazil, with no restrictions on the year of specialization. Data was collected using the snowball method through an anonymous, structured electronic form distributed via virtual groups and e-mail. Measurements included sociodemographic and academic questions, as well as the application of the Physicians Reactions to Uncertainty (PRU) questionnaire, which quantifies physicians' uncertainty in decision-making.
Results. A total of 124 residents participated in the study, with the majority being women (52.4%), over 26 years old (77.4%), in their first year of residency (49.2%), and without previous graduation on other academic fields (94.7%) or prior medical specializations and residencies (91.9%). The year of residency significantly influenced the perception of uncertainty, with first-year residents showing less ability to handle it (p=0.003). Participants with prior graduation in health-related fields aside from medicine and those with prior specializations demonstrated less intense reactions to uncertainty (p=0.041 and p=0.036, respectively). First-year residents experienced greater stress related to uncertainty (p<0.001), while those with previous graduation other than medicine were less reluctant to share their mistakes (p=0.003).
Conclusion. Experience, in terms of years of residency or prior graduations, significantly impacts physicians' reactions, reducing perceived uncertainty and mitigating its emotional and cognitive impact. This can directly influence clinical decisions, behaviors, and overall well-being.
Integrated Geological Analysis of the AI Well, Niger Delta Basin: Insights into Reservoir Characterization and Hydrocarbon Potential
Authors: Maju-Oyovwikowhe Efetobore Gladys , Aigbadon Godwin , Egharevba Aisosa
Published: August 2024

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the AI well within the Agbada Formation, focusing on its depositional environment, reservoir characteristics, and dominant mineralogical composition. One hundred rock samples were collected at various depths ranging from 6000 ft to 10120 ft and subjected to detailed petrographic, geochemical, and sedimentological analyses. Petrographic thin section analysis, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) were performed on five selected samples to determine their mineral phases and geochemical compositions. Sedimentological analysis of the remaining samples included assessments of grain size, sorting, and lithofacies. The petrographic analysis revealed quartz as the predominant mineral, constituting 27.2–28.8% of the reservoir components, along with plagioclase (3.8–2.5%) and clay minerals (57.2–52.8%). XRD results supported these findings, showing quartz content ranging from 35–51%. XRF analysis indicated that SiO2 is the most abundant oxide (63.264–36.662%), followed by Fe2O3 (19.718–10.519%), and Al2O3 (16.147–10.462%). Sedimentological results revealed an almost equal sand-clay ratio, suggesting a paralic depositional environment within the Agbada Formation of the Niger Delta. The integration of geochemical, petrographic, and sedimentological data provides detailed insights into the reservoir characteristics and mineral composition, highlighting factors that can influence reservoir performance. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the depositional environments and diagenetic processes within the Niger Delta Basin, offering valuable implications for hydrocarbon exploration and reservoir management.
Highly efficient synthesis of the chiral ACE inhibitor intermediate (R)-2-hydroxy-4-phenylbutyrate ethyl ester via engineered bi-enzyme cascade systems
Authors: dai yanmei , Wang Jinmei , Tao Zijuan , Luo Liangli , Huang Changshun , Liu Bo , Tang Lan , Ou Zhimin
Published: August 2024

(R)-2-Hydroxy-4-phenylbutyric acid ethyl ester ((R)-HPBE) represents a crucial chiral intermediate in the synthesis of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Its preparation entails an asymmetrical reduction of ethyl 2-oxo-4-phenylbutyrate (OPBE) with high selectivity by carbonyl reductase, a process that necessitates the regeneration of the cofactor as a pivotal aspect. The carbonyl reductase gene (CpCR) in Candida parapsilosis ATCC 7330 was successfully cloned in our laboratory. A series of recombinant engineering bacteria were constructed based on the cloned CpCR gene. These included E. coli BL21-pETDuet-1-CpCR, E. coli BL21-pET28a-CpCR and E. coli BL21-pACYCDuet-1-CpCR, which expressed the CpCR monoenzyme. To address the issue of cofactor regeneration, glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) was incorporated into the reaction system to construct a bi-enzyme cascade system, which included three co-expression recombinant engineering bacteria (E. coli BL21-pETDuet-1-CpCR/pACYCDuet-1-GDH, The following recombinant engineering bacteria were constructed: E. coli BL21-pETDuet-1-CpCR-GDH and BL21-pETDuet-1-GDH-CpCR, as well as E. coli BL21-pETDuet-1-CpCR-L-GDH and E. coli BL21-pETDuet-1-GDH-L-CpCR, which were created through fusion expression. Subsequent studies demonstrated that the fusion-expressed bi-enzyme cascade recombinant engineering bacteria E. coli BL21-pETDuet-1-GDH-L-CpCR exhibited superior carbonyl reductase activity compared to CpCR single-enzyme recombinant engineering bacteria and bi-enzyme co-expression recombinant engineering bacteria. This was evidenced by a 3-fold increase in substrate processing capacity at a reaction temperature of 30 ℃and a reaction time of 24 h. With a substrate loading of 30 mM OPBE, (R)-HPBE was achieved in 92.1% conversion with an enantiomeric excess value of 99.9%.
Effect of adjuvant treatments on the diameter of recipient vessels for free flap breast reconstruction: A computed tomographic angiography-assisted analysis
Authors: Choi Jong Yun , Lee Junhyeok , Jun Daiwon , Rhu Jiyoung , Paik Pill Sun , Lee Jung Ho
Published: August 2024

The quality of the recipient vessel is critical for good outcomes after microsurgical breast reconstruction, and damage to the recipient vessels should be minimized. Radiation therapy (RTx) and chemotherapy (CTx) are widely used as adjuvant treatments for breast cancer. They may result in changes in recipient vessels for microsurgical breast reconstruction. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the changes in recipient vessels for breast reconstruction after adjuvant treatment for breast cancers. Overall, 167 patients with unilateral breast cancer who underwent surgical resection between 2017 and 2021 were selected. Notably, 33 of these patients received only mastectomy without adjuvant treatment (Group A), 44 received only adjuvant RTx (Group B), 43 received only adjuvant CTx (Group C), 47 patients received both adjuvant CTx and RTx (Group D). Using preoperative and postoperative computed tomography (CT) angiography, the vessel diameters of the thoracodorsal artery (TDA) and the internal mammary artery (IMA) on the affected and unaffected sides were measured, and differences in vessel diameters between the two sides and characteristics of each group were analyzed. The diameter of affected vessels (TDA and IMA) significantly decreased in groups B and D compared with the changes in vessel diameters on the unaffected side (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the diameter of vessels in groups A and C (Group A: p = 0.644, Group B: p = 0.367). Therefore, the diameter of recipient vessels for microsurgical breast reconstruction significantly decreased when RTx was performed postoperatively. Thus, plastic surgeons conducting delayed breast reconstruction must thoroughly understand the changes in recipient vessels associated with adjuvant treatment. Consequently, the preoperative consideration of these possibilities enables plastic surgeons to provide patients with accurate information about the risks associated with surgery, ensuring that informed decisions are made.
The Power of Fame: Evaluating Celebrity Influence on Brand Attention, Emotion, and Memory
Authors: Michael Noela , Zoega Thomas , Michael Ian
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on the growing trend of celebrities being used as influencers in marketing, with firms investing substantially in celebrity endorsements. The study examines the effectiveness of celebrity influencers in destination marketing, comparing their influence with that of non-celebrity influencers. Neuroscience tools and methods were used to understand how cognitive and emotional factors impact consumer decisions and their likelihood to travel. The results show that employing a celebrity does not always increase audience engagement and attention toward the destination. The average person perceives the celebrity as a whole rather than focusing on one specific feature. Moreover, there were no significant differences in motivating levels or emotional responses between advertisements with influencers and those with unknown individuals. Celebrity influencers often do not contribute much to the cognitive load of viewers, although there are certain situations where they may slightly increase mental effort. The results suggest that influencer marketing can attract attention but should not overshadow the brand.
Evolving a safe blasting regime near an earthen dam through geophysical assessment
Authors: Vajre R. , Iyer V. , Sharma P. , Raina A. K.
Published: August 2024

Earthen dams are vulnerable to damage through nearby construction, particularly vibrations generated by blasting used for the excavation of hard rock. As such, there are restrictions by dam authorities that prohibit excavation beyond a certain depth near a dam. A similar case was observed near an earthen dam in India, where blasting was proposed for construction of a new railway line. To restrict vibrations due to blasting, it was imperative to develop a methodology and define the maximum allowable limits of vibrations near the dam toe. This meant defining the attenuation characteristics of the vibrations and assessing the natural frequency of the dam. A comprehensive geophysical investigation of the dam was conducted, which revealed a natural frequency of 2 to 4 Hz along with subsurface s-wave velocities in the range of 166 to 981 m/s. An empirical method was used to predict natural frequencies ranging from 1.82 to 4.59 Hz, thus matching those measured via geophysical methods. Finally, a vibration criterion based on the frequency and type of structure was used to obtain a threshold vibration level of 5 mm/s. Few blasts were conducted and the actual measurements of the vibrations at approximately 480 m proved that the vibration levels at the dam toe were less than 2 mm/s, thereby validating the predictions of vibrations.
Comparison of the Effects of Kinesio Taping and Rigid Taping in Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Saad Muhammad , Jamil Muhammad Ammad , Khan Lal Gul
Published: August 2024

Background:According to different researches kinesio and rigid taping both found to have a positive effect on the treatment for knee osteoarthritis, whereas kind of taping which is more 8 effective still require investigations.
Objective:To compare the effect of kinesio taping and rigid taping on the pain, range of motion and limited functioning in knee osteoarthritis.
Methodology: A randomize control trails was conducted at ATTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL from October 2022 to May 2023. 36 Patients aged 40-60 years with grade 1-3 osteoarthritis suffering from 6 months were included in this study. These 36 Patients were randomly divided into two groups, Group A with 18 patients received the Kinesio taping while group B with 18 patients received rigid taping, while conventional therapy was given to both groups. Patients were also guided about postural care. Analysis was done by SPSS 22.
Results: Analysis of data within group by Freidman test shows significant improvement in pain, range of knee flexion and extension, and functional activities measured by WOMAC index (p-value is <0.001). However, Mann Whitney U test comparison between the two groups showed no statistically significant difference, indicating the similar effectiveness of all the measured parameters in knee osteoarthritis patients.
Conclusion: The study concludes that both interventions, kinesio and rigid taping, along with conventional treatment, are equally effective for reducing pain , increasing range of motion and improving functional limitations for knee osteoarthritis patients.
Registration: The trails were registered on classic.clinicaltrails.gov with NCT number: NCT05946434.
Hydrological Connectivity Induces Changes in Macrobenthos Functional Feeding Groups in a Typical Tidal Creek System of the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Fu Qinglu , Chen Li , Sun Debin , Wang Jiao , Chen Jing , Li Baoquan , Chen Linlin
Published: August 2024

Hydrological connectivity in tidal creek systems is a fundamental element of coastal wetland ecosystems, influencing the interactions among various key ecological factors within the wetlands. Understanding the mechanisms by which hydrological connectivity affects the functional feeding groups (FFGs) of macrobenthos is crucial for the restoration and maintenance of wetland ecosystems and biodiversity. This study focuses on a typical tidal creek system in the Yellow River Delta, where we investigated macrobenthos, environmental factors, and metal elements across different seasons in tidal creek areas. We employed multi-element fingerprint analysis, non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), biological co-occurrence network analysis, and redundancy analysis (RDA) to explore the impact of hydrological connectivity on the ecological functions of tidal creek systems and the structure of macrobenthos FFGs. The results indicate that tidal creeks with greater differences in hydrological connectivity exhibit lower chemical connectivity. Scrapers had the highest abundance proportion in the tidal creek system, accounting for 40.9%. Gathering-collectors were identified as the key feeding functional group for maintaining the stability of biological communities. Areas with high hydrological connectivity showed strong synergistic effects and stability within the macrobenthos communities. The study further demonstrated that hydrological connectivity is a factor influencing the complexity of biological co-occurrence networks in typical tidal creeks. Sediment organic carbon, silicate, ammonia nitrogen, and metal element contents were identified as key factors affecting the structure of macrobenthos FFGs. Ecological function results suggest that high hydrological connectivity characteristics contribute to maintaining the productivity and stability of tidal creek systems.
Trophic niche partitioning of three anuran species in forest using stable isotopes analysis
Authors: LEE Su-Yeon , Song Jae-Young , Koo Kyo Soung , Seung Jinbae , Choi Chang-Yong
Published: August 2024

Stable isotopes provide knowledge of dynamic relationships within ecosystems. However, research on the trophic niche of domestic anurans—which serve as biological indicator of ecosystem health—using stable isotope analysis is limited. Therefore, we analyzed stable isotope values in the bone collagen of three anuran species—Bombina orientalis, Rana uenoi, and R. huanrenensis—representative of the domestic forest ecosystem to determine the trophic levels, niche partitioning, overlap, and shifts with growth within populations. Our findings indicate that B. orientalis occupied a relatively higher trophic level, while no significant difference was observed between the two Rana species. R. uenoi and R. huanrenensis, which share similar ecological characteristics and life cycles, tended to utilize a wide range of overlapping resources. Large Rana individuals occupied higher trophic levels and broader trophic niches than small individuals, indicating size-based niche partitioning within populations. B. orientalis showed a high trophic niche overlap between males and females, indicating resource sharing, although males were found to utilize a wide range of resources. Ultimately, the three anuran species might function as higher-order consumers as their size increases and two Rana species would increasingly consume terrestrial prey resources as they grow, while B. orientalis would consume more aquatic-origin prey resources.
The Prognostic Role of SIRI and PIV in Patients with Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Receiving Systemic Chemotherapy
Authors: Uzun Mehmet , Hamitoglu Buket , Gokcek Savas , Ellez Halil Ibrahim , Oztop Ilhan
Published: August 2024

Background
To determine the relationship between SIRI, PIV and prognosis in metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and to create a formula based on parameters that can be easily accessed in daily practice.
Methods
A total of 126 patients diagnosed with metastatic NSCLC and receiving systemic chemotherapy were evaluated. Laboratory values measured within 24 hours before the initiation of chemotherapy were recorded. The systemic immune-inflammation index (SIRI) was calculated using the formula (neutrophil count × monocyte count) / lymphocyte count, and the pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) was obtained using the formula (neutrophil count × platelet count × monocyte count) / lymphocyte count. ROC curve analysis was used to determine the average threshold values for SIRI and PIV. According to the ROC curve, the mean threshold value was established as 2.57 for SIRI and 772 for PIV. Patients with SIRI ≤ 2.57 were classified as SIRI-low, and those with SIRI > 2.57 as SIRI-high. Similarly, patients with a PIV ≤ 772 were classified as PIV-low, and those with a PIV > 772 as PIV-high. Survival analysis was conducted based on the PIV and SIRI cut-off values determined using the ROC curve.
Results
Of the 126 patients included in the study, 100 (79.4%) were male, and 26 (20.6%) were female, with a median age of 64 ± 9.3 years. The median overall survival (mOS) was 17 months in the SIRI-low group, whereas it was 6 months in the SIRI-high group, with a statistically significant correlation between SIRI and survival (p = 0.005). Similarly, the mOS was 19 months in the PIV-low group and 6 months in the PIV-high group, demonstrating a statistically significant relationship between PIV and survival (p = 0.001).
Conclusion
For metastatic NSCLC, the SIRI and PIV can be used to determine prognosis and develop treatment strategies, as it is a clinical decision-making tool based on parameters that are easily accessible in daily practice.
Application of alternative integration methods, to obtain more accurate photovoltaic devices’ parameters, through refinement of the Co-Content function, for Current-Voltage curves with a percentage noise of the short circuit current, measured in the zero volt to open-circuit voltage range
Authors: Rangel-Kuoppa Victor-Tapio
Published: August 2024

In this article, the application of the Newton-Cotes quadrature formula, the 3/8 rule, the Boole’s rule, and order 5 and 6 integration techniques, are explored to refine the Co-Content function, of Current-Voltage (IV) measurements done between 0 V and the open circuit voltage, which include a percentage noise of the short circuit current. Their impact on the extraction of the five photovoltaic devices’ parameters (within the one-diode model) is investigated and reported. The shunt resistance, series resistance, ideality factor, and photocurrent can be obtained with less than 10 % error, using these integration techniques and 101 measured points per volt, when the percentage noise is 0.05 % or less, of the short circuit current. It is not possible to obtain the saturation current with less than 10 % error. These integration techniques are implemented in photovoltaic devices, such as solar cells and single-crystalline silicon, CdTe, CIGS, and heterojunction with intrinsic thin-layer solar panels IV curves, to extract the five solar cell parameters.
PACS: 73.50.Pz, 73.61.−r, 84.60.Jt, 85.30.−z, 85.30.De, 88.40.−j
Digital health co-design: Perspectives from participating stakeholders on creating the Compass app
Authors: Ryan Jillian , Sicari Alexandra , Stewart Charlie , Davis Aaron , Edney Sarah , Cox David N
Published: August 2024

Background
Co-design is increasingly heralded as an appealing and effective method for engaging diverse stakeholders in public health research. However, it is not clear how co-design can best be implemented in research projects and what the constraints and enablers of its use are.
Methods
In this study, we evaluate the use of co-design in the design of a digital health prevention intervention, titled ‘Compass’. The co-design process is evaluated according to Normalisation Process Theory and investigated how co-design was implemented in a public health research setting. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 stakeholders who were heavily involved in the co-design process.
Results
Co-design of a digital health intervention was widely perceived to be beneficial by those involved. Key advantages include that it empowered diverse stakeholders to have a voice in the digital health design process, that the use of design thinking led to the disassembly of power imbalance that typically characterise traditional patient - professional relationships, and it generated new ideas for the intervention design that wouldn’t otherwise have eventuated. Challenges include the substantial effort required to initiate and execute a co-design process including coordination of the various activities and diverse stakeholder group. High-quality project management was identified as a critical factor in the success of the co-design process.
Conclusion
Co-design is a substantial yet worthwhile undertaking that can add significant value to the development of digital health interventions including increasing the relevance of such outputs and empowering diverse stakeholders in the process.
Synergistic Effects of Niraparib and Anlotinib on Suppressing the Growth of Ovarian Cancer and Stem-Like Cells by Inhibiting PI3K/Akt Signalling
Authors: Chu Baiwang , Sun Wenhui , Wang Ying , Zhang Yue , Yuan Yafan , Yang Linxia , Wang Xueyu , Wen Tingjie , Wang Dong , Sun Hua
Published: August 2024

Identifying novel and effective treatments is urgent to reduce the recurrence rates and drug resistance of patients with ovarian cancer, given the deficiencies of traditional treatments. In this study, we evaluated the synergistic effects of combining niraparib (NIR) and anlotinib (ANL) on their anti-proliferative, anti-migratory, anti-stem cell, and pro-apoptotic abilities on ovarian cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, NIR combined with ANL inhibited clone formation, proliferation, and migration and promoted apoptosis of A2780 cells through the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. The combination of the two drugs also inhibited the sphere-forming ability of ovarian cancer stem cells and reduced the expression of SOX2 and ALDH1A1, two markers related to stem cells. In vivo, NIR combined with ANL inhibited the growth of solid tumours and stem-like cells through the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. Our study suggests that the efficacy of combining NIR and ANL in treating ovarian cancer is superior to that of monotherapy, identifying it as a novel therapeutic modality for treating the disease.
Confidence in Providing Primary Care to Patients with Low Back Pain among Physiotherapists
Authors: Shavit Ron , Kushnir Talma , Nudelman Yaniv , Weisman Asaf , Springer Shmuel
Published: August 2024

Background
Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder with distinct clinical features. Direct access to physiotherapy (PT), with PTs acting as primary care providers, can improve the management of individuals with LBP. However, the success of these treatments is related to clinician confidence. The objectives of this study were to develop the Primary Care Confidence Scale (PCCS) and to describe the confidence of PTs in treating LBP in primary care.
Methods
The PCCS questionnaire was developed through a seven-stage Delphi process involving experts who modified an existing self-confidence scale. The questionnaire was completed by 314 PTs, 140 of whom completed it again after 2 weeks. Structural validity was evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Reliability was assessed with Cronbach’s alpha for internal consistency and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for test-retest reliability. Spearman tests assessed correlations between background characteristics and PCCS scores. Two independent t-tests estimated the effects of gender and post-graduate education. One-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the impact of the workplace.
Results
The PCCS had a multidimensional structure with three factors demonstrating an acceptable model fit and good reliability (α = 0.83, ICC = 0.78). The mean level of confidence was 75% (PCCS = 45 ± 6/60), with moderate positive correlations between age and years of experience (r = 0.33) and PCCS scores (r = 0.42, p < 0.001( for both. PTs working in public or private outpatient clinics had significantly higher scores (PCCS = 45.3 and 47.0, respectively) compared to PTs working in an inpatient hospital or in rehabilitation centers (PCCS = 40.6 and 40.3, respectively, p < 0.009).
Conclusions
The newly developed PCCS demonstrated adequate validity and high reliability, suggesting that it is suitable for measuring confidence in treating patients with LBP in primary care settings. PTs showed similar confidence levels to other healthcare professionals treating patients in primary care, which could support direct access to PT. Health policy makers and educators could incorporate the PCCS into training and evaluation programs to assess the readiness and competence of clinicians to treat LBP in primary care.
Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in breastfeeding women in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants
Authors: Laoprasopwattana Kamolwish , Tassanakijpanich Nattaporn , Khantee Puttichart , Kittivisuit Sirinthip , Rachatawiriyakul Pornruedee , Koosakulchai Vanlaya
Published: August 2024

Objective: To compare the COVID-19 transmission rates between infants who were primarily breastfed and those formula fed in mothers who received at least 2 doses of the COVID-19 vaccines.
Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted during the Omicron wave (January 1-October 1, 2022). Infants who exhibited respiratory symptoms were tested for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR.
Results: Of 234 infants, 66 (28.2%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, with 63 out of the 66 (95.5%) having a mother with COVID-19, and a median (IQR) age at diagnosis of 11.3 (10.8-11.9) months. The proportions of COVID-19 in 6- and 12-month breastfed and formula fed dominant infants were 27.0% vs. 31.0%, p =0.53 and 21.1% vs. 31.3%, p =0.11, respectively.
In the multivariate Cox regression models, both 6- and 12-month breastfed only/dominant infants had a protected effect against COVID-19 with hazard ratios (HRs, 95% CI) of 1.50 (0.90, 2.51), p =0.13 and 1.63 (0.90, 2.51), p =0.09, respectively. Maternal vaccine regimens had no protective effect against COVID-19 with the HR of 0.86 (0.49, 1.52), p =0.61. In sub-group analysis, infants with a mother that had received 2 doses within 6 months and were breastfed only/dominant at 12 months had a protected effect against COVID-19 with the HR of 3.77 (0.77, 18.43), p =0.05.
Conclusion: Mothers who have experienced COVID-19 can nurse without increasing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Despite the possibility that breastfeeding mothers who receive the COVID-19 vaccine can shield their infants from the virus, the statistical evidence is insignificant.
Prevalence, associated factors, and prevention practices of hepatitis B and C infections in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Alula Gebre Ayanaw , Gebeyehu Sefenew , Abinew Yideg , Chane Jemberu
Published: August 2024

Introduction
: Hepatitis is a major health problem worldwide, which can lead to the development of extensive liver scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, liver cancer, and death. Hepatitis B and C viruses infect 350 million and 170 million individuals worldwide, respectively.
Objective
The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and prevention practices of hepatitis B and C infections in the North Gondar Zone.
Method
A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted from February to June 2023 at Debark General Hospital and Janamora Primary Hospital to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and level of prevention practice of the hepatitis B and C virus. Data was collected using a pre-tested, structured questionnaire and a blood test. Chi-square and logistic regression were used to evaluate the possible association between dependent and independent variables.
Result
The overall prevalence of hepatitis was 7%, and the prevalence of hepatitis B and C was 4.18% and 2.87%, respectively. The result of multivariate analysis revealed that age (AOR = 0.41 [0.12–1.4]), residence (AOR = 3.77, 95% CI = 1.6–8.8), blood transfusion (AOR: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.02–0.86), and history of multiple sexual partners (AOR = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.04–0.79) were found to be statistically significantly associated with the prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infection among patients.
Conclusion
A significant number of patients participating in the study were infected by the hepatitis B and C virus which needs efficient intervention to reduce the infection rate. Therefore, immediate intervention strategies should be designed and implemented to overcome this disease.
Triglyceride Glucose-Waist to Height Ratio(TyG-WHtR) as a Potential Predictor of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A cross-sectional study from NHANES(March 2017-March 2020)
Authors: Yang Yubo , Sun Xijie , Lei Yuqing , Tao Shaohong , Xie Weining
Published: August 2024

Background:The objective of this study was to elucidate the relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the triglyceride glucose-waist to height ratio (TyG-WHtR), and to ascertain its predictive value for the occurrence of NAFLD.
Methods: Data was collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey(NHANES) from March 2017 to March 2020. Age,Gender,Height, Weight, Waist circumference(WC),Hip circumference(HC), Body mass index(BMI), Fasting blood glucose(FBG),Triglycerides(TG),High-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C) and Controlled attenuation parameter(CAP)of the 3674 subjects were collected. The logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate associations between the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) ,waist-hip ratio (WHR),the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index,the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(TG/HDL-C) ratio, and TyG-WHtR with a diagnosis of NAFLD. The diagnostic performance of WHtR, WHR, TyG index, TG/HDL-C ratio and TyG-WHtR for cirrhosis was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis.
Results: The prevalence rates of NAFLD progressively increased across the quartiles of WHtR, WHR, TyG index, TG/HDL-C ratio and TyG-WHtR (P for tend < 0.0001).After adjusting for confounders, the TyG-WHtR had a better association with NAFLD risk than other indices.The odds ratios (ORs) of NAFLD from the second to the fourth quartiles of TyG-WHtR compared to the first quartile were 1.58 (1.16, 2.14), 1.84 (1.16, 2.93), and 2.15 (1.06, 4.37), respectively. The TyG-WHtR curve's area under the curve (AUC) was 0.823 (0.809, 0.837).the highest of all other study parameters.
Conclusions: Compared to WHtR, WHR, TyG index and TG/HDL-C ratio, TyG-WHtR was a more effective predictor of NAFLD. TyG-WHtR has the potential to be a simpler, more accurate, and more cost-effective non-invasive marker for predicting NAFLD patients.
Treatment patterns and survival outcomes in octogenarians with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer from 2011 to 2020: a SEER database analysis
Authors: Hua Wenxuan , Zhang Zhigang , Ni Lianfang , Liu Xinmin
Published: August 2024

Objective: This study investigated treatment patterns and survival outcomes in octogenarians with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.
Methods: Data from the SEER 17 Registries (2000-2020) was analyzed. Patients aged 80 years or older who were diagnosed with early-stage NSCLC (stage I-IIA) between2011 and 2020 were included. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to balance clinical characteristics between treatment groups. Overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were assessed using Kaplan‒Meier analysis and Cox regression.
Results: A total of 31371 patients aged 80 years or older were diagnosed with NSCLC in the SEER database from 2011 to 2020, including 8042 patients with early-stage I–IIA (AJCC 8th) NSCLC, 7372 of whom met the study entry criteria. Early-stage NSCLC patients increased significantly to over 30% during 2018-2020, compared to less than 25% in 2011-2017. Over the decade, radiotherapy increased from 31.2% to 49.4%, while surgery decreased from 44.5% to 32.4%. Radiotherapy has surpassed surgery and been the predominant treatment for octogenarians since 2014. A total of 5496 patients were included in survival analysis. The mediansurvival was 67 months for patients who underwent surgery and 33 months for those who received radiotherapy. Lobectomy was associated withbetter long-term OS thansegmentectomy and wedge resection. Stratification by tumor size confirmed the superiority of surgery in most categories except for the smallest tumors (0-1 cm).
Conclusions: The proportion of early-stage NSCLC patients aged 80 and older increased significantly in 2018-2020 compared to 2011-2017. Radiotherapy is increasingly used to treat early-stage NSCLC in octogenarians, yet surgery provides superior long-term survival. These findings support surgical intervention as the preferred treatment for eligible octogenarians with early-stage NSCLC.
Pyrroloquinoline quinone activates lactate production and inhibits NLRP3 to improve the apoptosis of granulosa cells in POI rats
Authors: Liu Ke , Huo Peng , Li BaoXiang , Li Tianlong , Ma Yue , Zhong Ou , Li Wanhan , Zhang Shun , Chen Xi , Lei Xiaocan
Published: August 2024

Chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an extreme form of reproductive aging in women, while the inflammatory factors manifest a vital cause of ovarian aging and serve as a research hotspot. However, there is still no effective method to restore the ovarian reserve. In the present study, we investigated the potential association between pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) and chemotherapy-induced POI. To investigate this, a POI rat model was established by cyclophosphamide (CTX) successfully, we demonstrated that PQQ intervention reduced the ovarian injury and improved ovarian function, as well as increased the lactate levels and up-regulated the expression of key rate-limiting enzymes of glycolysis, while inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors such as NLRP3 and so on in the ovarian aging rats. To further explore the mechanisms, KGN cells were treated with Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mimic the inflammatory environment. PQQ alleviated the inflammation level and enhanced the glycolysis rate of KGN cells treated by LPS, meanwhile an identical effect was detected by inhibiting NLRP3. Furthermore, PQQ acted as a molecule which could activated the process of glycolysis. Collectively, our findings show that PQQ as an antioxidant may effectively restore the ovarian reserve function, which suggesting that great clinical significance to apply PQQ for prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency in the future.