bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of rehabilitation unit-based physical activity therapy versus symptomatic supportive treatment on older patients with advanced cancer: a non-randomized controlled study
Authors: Lu Xiaoqiong , Wei Shubao , Liang Benzi , Huang Cheng , Meng Weiwei , Zhang Xiaojing , Chen Xiuqiong
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Relatively few studies have investigated the effects of rehabilitation-based physical activity therapy as a treatment for older patients with advanced cancer. This study evaluated the effects of individualized precise and structured exercise interventions, prescribed by a rehabilitation physician, on fatigue, quality of life (QOL), and physical activity in older patients with advanced cancer.

Methods

After admission to the rehabilitation department, older cancer patients were divided into groups receiving conventional symptomatic supportive therapy (SST) or physical activity therapy plus conventional symptomatic supportive therapy (PAT). The SST group was given symptomatic supportive treatment, exercised on their own, and were observed at home after their symptoms improved. The PAT group was required to implement physical exercise along with SST, involving 30 min of moderate-intensity exercise per day and 5 days per week, and were discharged after 4 weeks and instructed to continue to exercise outside the hospital. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) at 4 and 8 weeks was the primary endpoint of the study, while the secondary endpoints included patients’ QOL, physical activity, and exercise adherence rate.

Results

Sixty-five patients were included; 37 (56.92%) chose to enter the PAT group, and 28 (43.08%) chose to enter the SST group. After 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, CRF relief and QOL improvement were significantly better in the PAT group than in the SST group (p < 0.05), whereas global health status did not differ between the two treatment groups (T1: p = 0.84; T2: p = 0.92). Mild physical activity significantly increased for the PAT group at T1 and T2 (T1: p = 0.03; T2: p = 0.005). At the T2 time point, the PAT group exhibited a higher level of participation in moderate-intensity physical activities as well as a higher total leisure activity score (p < 0.05). Thirty-three patients (94.29%) completed the PAT exercise program during hospitalization. Only four (12.12%) patients achieved moderate-intensity exercise, while the other 29 (87.88%) patients were able to continue exercising after their exercise intensity was decreased.

Conclusions

Implementation of precise and individualized exercise interventions, prescribed by the rehabilitation team, can lead to the reduction of CRF and improvement of QOL, and change in behavior related to physical activity.
Unveiling intrusions: explainable SVM approaches for addressing encrypted Wi-Fi traffic in UAV networks
Authors: Bayrak Sengul
Published: July 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, have become instrumental in various domains, including agriculture, geographic information systems, media, logistics, security, and defense. These UAVs often rely on wireless communication networks for data transmission, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. To address these challenges, it is necessary to detect potential threats by analyzing the encrypted Wi-Fi traffic data generated by UAVs. This study aimed to develop a linear SVM model that is enhanced with explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques and fine-tuned using Bayesian optimization for intrusion detection systems (IDSs); the model is specifically designed to identify malware threats targeting UAVs. This research utilized encrypted Wi-Fi traffic data derived from three different UAV networks, namely, Parrot Bebop 1, DBPower UDI, and DJI Spark, while considering unidirectional and bidirectional communication flow modes. SVM-based intrusion detection models have been modeled on these datasets, identified their key features using the local interpretable model-agnostic explanations (LIME) technique, and conducted a cost analysis of the proposed modeling approach. The incorporation of the LIME method enabled to highlight the features that are highly indicative of cyberattacks and provided valuable insights into the importance of each feature in the context of intrusion detection. In conclusion, this interpretable IDS model, fine-tuned with Bayesian optimization, demonstrated its superiority over the state-of-the-art methods, proving its efficacy in detecting and mitigating threats to UAVs while offering a cost-effective solution.
Migration-related determinants of health-care service utilization among persons with a direct migration background in Germany: an exploratory study based on the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP)
Authors: Grochtdreis Thomas , König Hans-Helmut , Dams Judith
Published: July 2024

Background

It is known that the health-care service utilization in primary care of persons with a direct migration background is lower compared to non-migrants. However, potential migration-related determinants of health-care service utilization are not known. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the associations between health-care service utilization and migration-related characteristics of persons with a direct migration background in Germany.

Methods

The migration samples (M1 and M2) of the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) were used as the sample for this study. Associations between the number of visits to primary care physicians in the previous three months and migration-related characteristics were examined using generalized linear models. Associations between the hospitalization within one year and migration-related characteristics were examined using logit models.

Results

The mean number of visits to primary care physicians was about 2, and 8% of persons were hospitalized. Being born in a country other than Russia was associated with a higher number of visits to primary care physicians (+ 26% to + 34%). Both, a very strong connectedness with the country of birth and very good oral German language skills were associated with higher number of visits to primary care physicians (both + 13%) compared to no connectedness and fairly bad oral German language skills.

Conclusion

Only the country of birth, connectedness with the country of birth and oral German language skills may be migration-related determinants of health-care service utilization with regard to the number of visits to primary care physicians by persons with a direct migration background in Germany. With regard to hospitalization, no potential migration-related determinants of health-care service utilization could be identified.
Detection and characterization of autoreactive memory stem T-cells in children with acute immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Zahran Asmaa M. , El-Badawy Omnia H. , Mahran Hayam , Gad Eman , Saad Khaled , Morsy Salma G. , Makboul Ahmed , Zahran Zeinab Albadry M. , Elhoufey Amira , Dailah Hamad Ghaleb , Elsayh Khalid I.
Published: July 2024

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired autoimmune disorder characterized by an isolated decrease in platelets below 100 × 109/l after the exclusion of other conditions associated with thrombocytopenia. We investigated the role of different memory T-cell subsets, including T stem cell memory (TSCM), in children diagnosed with primary ITP and its association with therapeutic duration. This case–control study included 39 pediatric patients with acute ITP admitted to the Children's Hospital at Assiut University. Using a FACSCanto flow cytometer, CD8 + and CD4 + T-lymphocytes were gated. Five different subsets were characterized in each of these cells according to CD45RO and CD45RA expression. Afterward, gating was performed based on CCR7, CD95, and CD27. Examination of the CD8 + T cells subpopulation showed that Central memory T (TCM) and CD8+ Naïve T (TN) cells were significantly lower in ITP patients than in healthy children (p < 0.0001) and (p = 0.01), respectively. In addition, CD8 + TEMRA was significantly higher in ITP children than in controls (p = 0.001). CD4 + TCM cells were significantly lower in the ITP patient group (p = 0.04). However, CD4 + TEM was significantly higher in patients than controls (p = 0.04). Our research found that ITP patients had an imbalance in the ratio of CD4+ to CD8+ T cells in the peripheral blood and that TCM cells may be involved in the pathogenetic mechanism of ITP. TCMs could help in prediction of patients with higher risk of developing ITP.
Ultra-wide band gap and wave attenuation mechanism of a novel star-shaped chiral metamaterial
Authors: Wang Shuo , Wang Anshuai , Wu Yansen , Li Xiaofeng , Sun Yongtao , Zhang Zhaozhan , Ding Qian , Ayalew G. D. , Ma Yunxiang , Lin Qingyu
Published: July 2024

A novel hollow star-shaped chiral metamaterial (SCM) is proposed by incorporating chiral structural properties into the standard hollow star-shaped metamaterial, exhibiting a wide band gap over 1 500 Hz. To broaden the band gap, solid single-phase and two-phase SCMs are designed and simulated, which produce two ultra-wide band gaps (approximately 5 116 Hz and 6 027 Hz, respectively). The main reason for the formation of the ultra-wide band gap is that the rotational vibration of the concave star of two novel SCMs drains the energy of an elastic wave. The impacts of the concave angle of a single-phase SCM and the resonator radius of a two-phase SCM on the band gaps are studied. Decreasing the concave angle leads to an increase in the width of the widest band gap, and the width of the widest band gap increases as the resonator radius of the two-phase SCM increases. Additionally, the study on elastic wave propagation characteristics involves analyzing frequency dispersion surfaces, wave propagation directions, group velocities, and phase velocities. Ultimately, the analysis focuses on the transmission properties of finite periodic structures. The solid single-phase SCM achieves a maximum vibration attenuation over 800, while the width of the band gap is smaller than that of the two-phase SCM. Both metamaterials exhibit high vibration attenuation capabilities, which can be used in wideband vibration reduction to satisfy the requirement of ultra-wide frequencies.
Multi-layer quasi-zero-stiffness meta-structure for high-efficiency vibration isolation at low frequency
Authors: Zhou Jiahao , Zhou Jiaxi , Pan Hongbin , Wang Kai , Cai Changqi , Wen Guilin
Published: July 2024

An easily stackable multi-layer quasi-zero-stiffness (ML-QZS) meta-structure is proposed to achieve highly efficient vibration isolation performance at low frequency. First, the distributed shape optimization method is used to design the unit cel, i.e., the single-layer QZS (SL-QZS) meta-structure. Second, the stiffness feature of the unit cell is investigated and verified through static experiments. Third, the unit cells are stacked one by one along the direction of vibration isolation, and thus the ML-QZS meta-structure is constructed. Fourth, the dynamic modeling of the ML-QZS vibration isolation meta-structure is conducted, and the dynamic responses are obtained from the equations of motion, and verified by finite element (FE) simulations. Finally, a prototype of the ML-QZS vibration isolation meta-structure is fabricated by additive manufacturing, and the vibration isolation performance is evaluated experimentally. The results show that the vibration isolation performance substantially enhances when the number of unit cells increases. More importantly, the ML-QZS meta-structure can be easily extended in the direction of vibration isolation when the unit cells are properly stacked. Hence, the ML-FQZS vibration isolation meta-structure should be a fascinating solution for highly efficient vibration isolation performance at low frequency.
Alkoxide-based solvent dyeing: a feasible strategy for pollution minimization and sustainable approach for the reactive dyeing of cellulosic materials
Authors: Periyasamy Aravin Prince , Negi Arvind
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of substituting the conventional inorganic alkalis (Na2CO3) with different organic alkoxide5s to explore the potential of replacing aqueous dyeing medium with environmentally friendly solvents like ethanol (EtOH). The study aimed to assess the dyeing characteristics, such as exhaustion, fixation, fastness qualities, physical properties, and environmental implications when EtOH and water were present, while also examining the impact of alkoxides. Time-gated Raman spectra provide insights into the allomorphic forms of cellulose-II after the alkoxide pretreatment, which significantly influences the overall reactivity of cellulose fibers and their dye absorption capabilities. Notably, organic alkoxide pretreated dyeing demonstrated improved color strength, exhaustion, and fixation efficiency compared to Na2CO3 pretreatment, as one of the work’s key findings. For instance, the conventional dyed fabric exhibits 3.4 times lower color strength than alkoxide-based (RR239 + C2H5ONa 3 g/L + EtOH) dyeing, showing substantial potential for upscaling at commercial level as it requires no chemical auxiliaries (such as NaCl and Na2CO3). Importantly, the alkoxide pretreatment does not significantly alter the physical, mechanical and fastness properties of the fabrics, which are comparable to both the pristine and aqueous dyed fabrics, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy experiments. The effluent’s color intensity resulting from dyeing with C2H5ONa + EtOH (3 g/L) is approximately 24 times lower (250 Pt/Co) in comparison to the aqueous dyeing using 40 g/L of NaCl and 20 g/L of Na2CO3 in an aqueous medium (6154 Pt/Co). Apart from the color intensity, alkoxide pretreatment and EtOH-based dyeing drastically reduce the COD, BOD, TDS, TSS and total hardness values, which could have cost-saving implications for wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs).
Fluorescence Studies on the Binding Affinity and Determination of Vitamin B12 in the Presence of Fibrinogen
Authors: Gökoğlu Elmas , Budun Seniye Şura , Doyuran Bensu , Taskin-Tok Tugba
Published: July 2024

The binding properties between vitamin B12 (vitB12, cyanocobalamin) and fibrinogen (Fib) were investigated by UV-vis absorption and steady-state/three-dimentional (3D) fluorescence spectra techniques as well as molecular docking. The experimental results showed that the intrinsic fluorescence of Fib quenched by vitB12 with static mechanism to form a non-fluorescent complex. The positive signs of thermodynamic parameters, ΔH (92.18 kJ/mol) and ΔS (433.5 J/molK), indicated that the hydrophobic forces were dominant in the binding mode. The molecular docking data were found to be in agreement with these experimental results and were confirmed by three hydrophobic interactions between the Trp430, Try390 residues of Fib and the vitamin. 3D spectra showed that fibrinogen undergoes a conformation change when it interacts with vitB12. Based on non-radiative energy transfer theory, binding distance was calculated to be 3.94 nm between donor (tryptophan residues of Fib) and acceptor (vitB12). The limit of detection (LOD) of vitB12 was calculated as 2.08 µM in the presence of fibrinogen. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of method was 4.28% for determinations (n = 7) of a vitB12 solution with the concentration of 7.80 µM.
LaMMOn: language model combined graph neural network for multi-target multi-camera tracking in online scenarios
Authors: Nguyen Tuan T. , Nguyen Hoang H. , Sartipi Mina , Fisichella Marco
Published: July 2024

Multi-target multi-camera tracking is crucial to intelligent transportation systems. Numerous recent studies have been undertaken to address this issue. Nevertheless, using the approaches in real-world situations is challenging due to the scarcity of publicly available data and the laborious process of manually annotating the new dataset and creating a tailored rule-based matching system for each camera scenario. To address this issue, we present a novel solution termed LaMMOn, an end-to-end transformer and graph neural network-based multi-camera tracking model. LaMMOn consists of three main modules: (1) Language Model Detection (LMD) for object detection; (2) Language and Graph Model Association module (LGMA) for object tracking and trajectory clustering; (3) Text-to-embedding module (T2E) that overcome the problem of data limitation by synthesizing the object embedding from defined texts. LaMMOn can be run online in real-time scenarios and achieve a competitive result on many datasets, e.g., CityFlow (HOTA 76.46%), I24 (HOTA 25.7%), and TrackCUIP (HOTA 80.94%) with an acceptable FPS (from 12.20 to 13.37) for an online application.
“I Heard of PrEP—I Didn’t Think I Needed it.” Understanding the Formation of HIV Risk Perception Among People Who Inject Drugs
Authors: Mars Sarah , Ondocsin Jeff , Koester Kimberly A. , Mars Valerie , Mars Gerald , Ciccarone Daniel
Published: July 2024

Uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis medication (PrEP) to prevent HIV among people who inject drugs (PWID) remains extremely low in the United States. West Virginia’s rising HIV incidence and highest drug overdose rate in the nation makes it an important locus for opioid use and HIV risk interaction. In this pilot study we pioneered the use of Cultural Theory among PWID to understand HIV-related risk perception arising from four contrasting modes of social organization. Carried out during an HIV outbreak, we explored PrEP uptake qualitatively as a window onto risk perception. Of the 26 interviewees, 18 were HIV− and despite the medication’s free availability from the health center where recruitment took place, none had taken PrEP, half considering they were not at risk. Intimate couples who showed characteristics of ‘enclaves’ considered the boundary around themselves protective against HIV, creating a safe space or ‘invisible risk group’. Higher HIV risk was perceived among those who were housed compared to those living homeless. Beliefs about the causation of the local HIV outbreak and the validity of scientific research corresponded with characteristics of the contrasting modes of social organization and the approach is promising for informing public health interventions among PWID.
The impact of codeine rescheduling on non-opioid analgesic use by people who regularly use codeine: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Maher Jessie , McCoy Jacqui , Bruno Raimondo , Nielsen Suzanne
Published: July 2024

Background

Codeine was rescheduled in Australia to prescription only in February 2018. Initial studies reported an increase in population level paracetamol and ibuprofen sales following codeine upscheduling. However, to date no study has been able to investigate changes in non-opioid analgesic use at the individual patient level to determine if sales data reflect actual consumption patterns.

Aim

To address this gap, we aimed to determine the impact of codeine rescheduling on non-opioid analgesic use in people who regularly used over-the-counter codeine, primarily for pain, prior to the rescheduling change.

Method

We conducted a prospective cohort study with 260 participants who reported regular over-the-counter codeine consumption at cohort entry. Surveys were completed at baseline (November 2017, 3 months before rescheduling) and at 1 month (February 2018), 4 months (June 2018), and 12 months (February 2019), following rescheduling. The primary outcomes were mean daily doses of non-opioid analgesics, captured through a 7 day medication diary.

Results

The mean daily paracetamol dose decreased from 1754.4 mg (95% CI 1300.5–2208.3) at baseline to 1023.8 mg (95% CI 808.5–1239.1) at the final time-point (+ 12 months) (p = .009). The mean daily ibuprofen dose decreased from 305.1mg (95% CI 217.9–392.4) at baseline to 161.2 mg (95% CI 98.5–224.0) 12 months after rescheduling (p = .03). No significant change in doses of other medications remained was found.

Conclusion

In people who regularly consumed over-the-counter codeine, doses of non-opioid analgesics either reduced or remained stable following codeine rescheduling, suggesting concerns of medication substitution or overuse following the change were not realised.
The evolving role of pharmacists in depression care: a scoping review
Authors: Shalash Ala’ , Zolezzi Monica
Published: July 2024

Background

Worldwide, depression is known to contribute significantly to the global burden of disease. Considering pharmacists are among the most approachable healthcare providers, they are well-placed to assist people with depression achieve positive treatment outcomes.

Aim

The primary aim was to examine the evidence regarding pharmacists’ roles in interventions, outcomes, and barriers to implementation within depression care globally, with the secondary aim focusing on the Arab region.

Method

A scoping review was conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR extension guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, using Scopus, Cochrane, ProQuest, and Medline databases for studies worldwide and within the Arab region (22 Arab-league countries). Article selection, along with data extraction, analysis, and narrative synthesis were performed independently by two reviewers. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus.

Results

Forty studies reporting various roles and services provided by pharmacists in depression management were included. Most articles (24) described studies on pharmacist-led specific/single interventions/management strategies, and 16 described studies in which pharmacists provided comprehensive or team-based services. The majority of studies reported positive impact on patient outcomes. In accordance with the secondary aim, only three studies assessed various pharmacists’ services for people with depression in the Arab region. Barriers to effective depression-related care included time constraints and training needs.

Conclusion

This scoping review supports the expanding role of pharmacists in depression management. The interventions, impact, challenges, and research gaps identified serve as preliminary evidence for advocating for an expanded pharmacists’ scope of practice in mental health, both globally and in the Arab region.
Emotion Regulation Difficulties and Smoking Behavior among Adults with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases
Authors: Schadegg Mary J. , Dixon Laura J. , Lee Aaron A.
Published: July 2024

COPD is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and results in increased healthcare costs and disability. Smoking is the main determinant of COPD development and continued use increases mortality as compared to those who have stopped smoking. Research has indicated that cigarette smoking may play a role in attempts to regulate distressing emotional experiences and thus, may be an important transdiagnostic process underlying continued smoking behavior among adults with COPD. The current study investigated the role of ER difficulties in relation to smoking status and cigarettes smoked per day among adults with COPD. This cross-sectional study included a sample was adults with COPD (N = 320). Participants self-reported current smoking status, daily smoking, and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale. All analyses were adjusted for age, sex, probable depression, probable anxiety, and dyspnea severity. DERS total scores were associated with greater odds of current smoking. With the exception of impulsivity, all other dimensions of emotion regulation were significantly associated with current smoking. Greater difficulties in emotional awareness were associated with greater cigarettes smoked per day. However, neither the DERS total score nor any other dimensions of emotional regulation were significantly associated with cigarettes smoked per day. The present study provides preliminary data linking ER difficulties to smoking behavior among adults with COPD. If corroborated by future research, these findings suggest that ER might be a potential target for smoking cessation programs among adults with COPD.
Effect of pyrite on the treatment of chlorophenolic compounds with zero-valent iron-Fenton process under uncontrolled pH conditions: reaction mechanism and biodegradability
Authors: Oral Ozlem , Kantar Cetin , Yildiz Ilker
Published: July 2024

This current study explored the effect of pyrite on the treatment of chlorophenolic compounds (CP) by Fenton process with micron-sized zero-valent iron (ZVI) as the catalyst. The experiments were conducted in batch reactors with 100 mg L−1 CP, 0–0.02 M H2O2, and variable pyrite and ZVI doses (0–1 g L−1). Our findings show that while the reactor with 1 g L−1 ZVI as the only catalyst achieved only 10% CP removal efficiency due to rapid ZVI surface passivation and ZVI particle aggregation, the CP removal efficiency increased with increasing pyrite dose and reached 100% within couple of minutes in reactors with 0.8 g L−1 pyrite and 0.2 g L−1 ZVI. The CP removal was mainly driven by the oxidative treatment of CPs with some strong radicals such as hydroxyl radicals (•OH) while the adsorption onto the catalyst surface was only responsible for 10 to 25% of CP removals, depending on the type of CP studied. The positive impact of pyrite on CP removal by the ZVI/H2O2 system could be attributed to the ability of pyrite to (1) create an acidic environment for optimum Fenton process, (2) provide support material for ZVI to minimize ZVI particle agglomeration, and (3) stimulate iron redox cycling for improved surface site generation. Following oxidative Fenton treatment, the degradation intermediate products of CPs, including some aromatic compounds (benzoquinone, hydroquinone, etc.) and organic acids (e.g., acetic acid), became more biodegradable in comparison to their mother compounds. Overall, the treatment systems with a mixture of ZVI and pyrite as catalyst materials could offer a suitable cost-effective technology for the treatment of wastewater containing biologically non- or low-degradable toxic compounds such as chlorophenols.
Classroom profiles of instructional quality: contribution of level and variability of students’ perception
Authors: Lindermayer Christian , Kosiol Timo , Ufer Stefan
Published: July 2024

Different approaches for measuring instructional quality have been debated. Previous studies based on student ratings have primarily used class-average ratings. Beyond this, the high within-classroom variability of students’ ratings might indicate that instruction caters to some, but not all students. Therefore, we investigated student-reported instructional quality in mathematics classrooms by considering the average student ratings and rating heterogeneity within classrooms. Using a case-centered clustering approach, we aimed to detect meaningful configurations of the level and heterogeneity of student-reported instructional quality in terms of the Three Basic Dimensions (TBD): classroom management, cognitive activation, and student support. We analyzed data fromN = 973 grade eight students acrossN = 106 classes. Using Latent Profile Analysis (LPA), we identified four classroom profiles comprising 20% to 28% of the sample. The results indicate that the profile with the lowest average ratings showed consistently high heterogeneity for all indicator variables. However, the profile with the highest average ratings exhibited consistently low heterogeneity. We gained interesting insights into between-class differences in instructional quality by considering rating heterogeneity. Furthermore, we explored how classrooms from the identified profiles differed regarding socio-economic status (SES) and mathematics-related characteristics (interest, intrinsic motivation, self-concept, and achievement).
Facilitating circularity in city governance in the Republic of Serbia: a novel approach to modeling of energy efficiency big data mining
Authors: Radovanović Mirjana , Filipović Sanja , Šimić Goran
Published: July 2024

Efficient use of energy and other resources, as the basic postulates of the circular economy, is a prerequisite for the green transition to more sustainable cities in the future. The main scientific goal of the paper is the development of a new approach to city governance when it comes to the inefficient use of energy, predominantly fossil fuels, mainly in developing and poor countries. Energy efficiency problems faced by these countries require the introduction of urgent, applicable, and realistically achievable solutions. A prerequisite for adequate analysis and modeling of energy efficiency performance, measures, policies, outcomes, and impacts is the introduction and functioning of the big data management system, which should begin with data mining. On the other hand, adequate data collection has been neglected in many of these countries. The study shows a way to reduce this gap, but in accordance with realistic and limited possibilities for countries with less favorable conditions. In that respect, a conceptual model for the Analytical Service for facilitating energy efficiency in city governance was developed and presented as a driver that can enable cities to manage energy more efficiently. The model is based on an interdisciplinary approach and on the needs of cities in the Republic of Serbia. However, it is designed to allow upgrading in accordance with the capabilities and resources of cities, primarily applicable in developing and poor countries.
Immunosuppression in adult liver transplant recipients: a 2024 update from the Italian Liver Transplant Working Group
Authors: Manzia Tommaso Maria , Antonelli Barbara , Carraro Amedeo , Conte Grazia , Guglielmo Nicola , Lauterio Andrea , Mameli Laura , Cillo Umberto , De Carlis Luciano , Del Gaudio Massimo , De Simone Paolo , Fagiuoli Stefano , Lupo Francesco , Tisone Giuseppe , Volpes Riccardo ,   on behalf of the Italian Liver Transplant Working Group
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Advances in surgical procedures and immunosuppressive therapies have considerably improved the outcomes of patients who have undergone liver transplantation in the past few decades. In 2020, the Italian Liver Transplant Working Group published practice-oriented algorithms for immunosuppressive therapy (IT) in adult liver transplant (LT) recipients. Due to the rapidly evolving LT field, regular updates to the recommendations are required. This review presents a consensus- and evidence-based update of the 2020 recommendations.

Methods

The Italian Liver Transplant Working Group set out to address new IT issues, which were discussed based on supporting literature and the specialists’ personal experiences. The panel deliberated on and graded each statement before consensus was reached.

Results

A series of consensus statements were formulated and finalized on: (i) oncologic indications for LT; (ii) management of chronic LT rejection; (iii) combined liver–kidney transplantation; (iv) immunosuppression for transplantation with an organ donated after circulatory death; (v) transplantation in the presence of frailty and sarcopenia; and (vi) ABO blood group incompatibility between donor and recipient. Algorithms were updated in the following LT groups: standard patients, critical patients, oncology patients, patients with specific etiology, and patients at high immunologic risk. A steroid-free approach was generally recommended, except for patients with autoimmune liver disease and those at high immunologic risk.

Conclusion

The updated consensus- and evidence-based 2024 recommendations for immunosuppression regimens in adult patients with ABO-compatible LT address a range of clinical variables that should be considered to optimize the choice of the immunosuppression treatment in clinical practice in Italy.

Graphical abstract
NAFLD and MAFLD independently increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE): a 20-year longitudinal follow-up study from regional Australia
Authors: Vaz Karl , Kemp William , Majeed Ammar , Lubel John , Magliano Dianna J. , Glenister Kristen M. , Bourke Lisa , Simmons David , Roberts Stuart K.
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

The association between fatty liver disease (FLD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in an Australian context has yet to be defined. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the association between FLD and 3-point major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Methods

This was a longitudinal follow-up study of a randomly sampled adult cohort from regional Australia between 2001 and 2003. Baseline covariates included demographic details, anthropometry, health and lifestyle data, and laboratory tests. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic-(dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) were diagnosed in participants with fatty liver index (FLI) ≥ 60 and meeting other standard criteria. ICD-10 codes were used to define clinical outcomes linked to hospitalisations. Three-point MACE defined as non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI) and cerebrovascular accident (CVA) and CVD death.

Results

In total, 1324 and 1444 participants met inclusion criteria for NAFLD and MAFLD analysis, respectively. Over 23,577 and 25,469 person-years follow-up, NAFLD and MAFLD were independent predictors for 3-point MACE, adjusting for demographic covariates and known cardiometabolic risk factors, whilst considering non-CVD death as a competing event (NAFLD: sub-hazard ratio [sHR] 1.56, 95% confidence interval [CI 1.12–2.19]; MAFLD: sHR 1.51, 95% CI 1.11–2.06). The results held true on several sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Both forms of FLD increase the risk for CVD independent of traditional cardiometabolic risk factors.
Exploring the effect of cognitive load in scenarios of daily driving
Authors: Felisberti Fatima M. , Fernandes Thiago P.
Published: July 2024

Although driving to and from work is an unavoidable part of the working life of many people, little is known about the relationship between work-related and drive-related cognitive load in daily commuting. To explore those relationships, Study 1 examined the effect of a demanding driving period on the performance of a subsequent cognitive task (mimicking a home-to-work commuting scenario). That driving-related higher cognitive load than the control condition was associated with an increased accuracy in the following cognitive task. Study 2 examined the effects of a period of demanding cognitive tasks on the performance of a subsequent driving task (mimicking a work-to-home commuting scenario). Although no reliable effect on speed or lane keeping ability in a virtual motorway scenario was observed, the completion of tasks under the higher cognitive load condition before driving led to a modest increase in the distance kept from the car ahead. The two sets of findings suggest that moderate levels of cognitive load could modulate the performance in timely contiguous tasks. The process underpinning possible spillover effects with such timestamp is unknow but might be linked to the activation of long-lasting attentional processes involving alertness. Hence, this exploratory study can be a catalyst for future studies investigating the interplay between cognitive load and driving in scenarios of daily commuting.
Some aspects of k-ideals of semirings
Authors: Goswami Amartya , Dube Themba
Published: July 2024

The aim of this paper is to study some distinguished classes of k-ideals of semirings, which include k-prime, k-semiprime, k-radical, k-irreducible, and k-strongly irreducible ideals. We discuss some of the properties of k-ideals and their products, intersections, and ideal quotients under semiring homomorphisms.
Differential Expression of mRNA in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells May Predict Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Patients
Authors: Tan Mingqi , Liu Xiankun , Wang Lianqun , Jiang Nan , Bai Yunpeng , Guo Zhigang
Published: July 2024

Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation (POAF) frequently follows Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery. This prospective study investigates genes linked to POAF in CABG patients, aiming to create a predictive model. Employing differential gene and methylation analyses, the study identified four genes (WARS2, CKAP2, CHI3L1, HSD17B6) associated with POAF. Preoperative plasma samples and clinical data were collected from 139 CABG patients, categorized into POAF (+) (43) and POAF (-) (96). Real-time quantitative PCR assessed gene expression, and a predictive model using the LASSO method demonstrated robust performance, with AUC values of 0.8895 in the training set and 0.7840 in the test set. This pioneering study integrates genomics and clinical data, suggesting WARS2, CKAP2, and CHI3L1 as potential indicators for POAF prediction.

Graphical Abstract
Short-term S100A8/A9 Blockade Promotes Cardiac Neovascularization after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Mares Razvan Gheorghita , Suica Viorel Iulian , Uyy Elena , Boteanu Raluca Maria , Ivan Luminita , Cocuz Iuliu Gabriel , Sabau Adrian Horatiu , Yadav Vikas , Szabo Istvan Adorjan , Cotoi Ovidiu Simion , Tomut Mihaela Elena , Jakobsson Gabriel , Simionescu Maya , Antohe Felicia , Schiopu Alexandru
Published: July 2024

Acute-phase inhibition of the pro-inflammatory alarmin S100A8/A9 improves cardiac function post-myocardial infarction (MI), but the mechanisms underlying the long-term benefits of this short-term treatment remain to be elucidated. Here, we assessed the effects of S100A8/A9 blockade with the small-molecule inhibitor ABR-238901 on myocardial neovascularization in mice with induced MI. The treatment significantly reduced S100A9 and increased neovascularization in the myocardium, assessed by CD31 staining. Proteomic analysis by mass-spectrometry showed strong myocardial upregulation of the pro-angiogenic proteins filamin A (~ 10-fold) and reticulon 4 (~ 5-fold), and downregulation of the anti-angiogenic proteins Ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA, ~ 4.7-fold), neutrophilic granule protein (Ngp, ~ 4.0-fold), and cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (Camp, ~ 4.4-fold) versus controls. In-vitro, ABR-238901 protected against apoptosis induced by recombinant human S100A8/A9 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). In conclusion, S100A8/A9 blockade promotes post-MI myocardial neovascularization by favorably modulating pro-angiogenic proteins in the myocardium and by inhibiting endothelial cell apoptosis.

Graphical Abstract
COVID-19-Associated Cerebellitis: A Case Report and Rehabilitation Outcome
Authors: Tedeschi Roberto , Amoruso Vincenza , Boetto Valentina , Glorioso Davide , D’Auria Lucia , Donati Danilo
Published: July 2024

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to neurological complications, including cerebellitis, characterized by inflammation of the cerebellum. Despite its rare occurrence, cerebellitis has been associated with COVID-19 infection, albeit the pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. Case report. We present the case of a 22-year-old male with acute onset ataxia and dysarthria during a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Diagnostic evaluations ruled out other causes, confirming cerebellitis. Treatment included steroid therapy, vitamin supplementation, physiotherapy, and intravenous immunoglobulins. Rehabilitation focused on enhancing balance, coordination, and daily activities. The patient showed significant improvement in functional abilities, with increased autonomy in daily activities and improved ambulation. Despite persistent mild symptoms, the multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach led to remarkable progress. Conclusions. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing neurological complications, such as cerebellitis, in COVID-19 patients. A comprehensive approach combining medical treatment and rehabilitation is essential for optimizing outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the pathogenesis and optimal management strategies for such complications.
Physical Activity Interventions Framed by the Health Action Process Approach for Adults with Long-Term Conditions: A Scoping Review
Authors: Silva-Smith Amy L. , Hanson Coral L. , Neubeck Lis , Rowat Anne , McHale Sheona
Published: July 2024

Background

Interventions that use the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) model show promise for increasing PA frequency, duration, and intensity. However, there is limited understanding of how HAPA model variables have been operationalized for PA interventions in chronic disease to promote behavior change and sustained PA or whether the phase or continuous form of the HAPA model was used. The aim of this scoping review is to describe how the HAPA model variables for PA interventions were operationalized and provide details of implementation.

Method

We searched five databases to identify studies published between January 1992 and March 2024. We aimed to describe (1) the characteristics of interventions including setting, delivery mode, duration, and content; (2) which HAPA variables were operationalized and the strategies used; and (3) the physical activity measures and outcome effects.

Results

The search identified 23 interventions in 30 papers (12 protocols, 3 quasi-experimental studies, and 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs)). Seven of the 15 RCTs reported significant positive effects of the HAPA model on PA behavior outcomes. Interventions operationalized between three and nine HAPA constructs showed significant variability in how the HAPA model is used in intervention research. PA measures varied from self-report to validated objective instruments.

Conclusion

We found a lack of clarity in decisions about which HAPA constructs were included in interventions. The wide variability in operationalized HAPA constructs made it challenging to compare interventions. Researchers should provide more detail about intervention design and implementation procedures to enhance transparency.
Vom schwierigen Unterfangen, rassismuskritische Veränderungen anzustoßen
Authors: Buonopane Gina , Duttweiler Stefanie , Kibrom Tzegha , Meteku Rahel , Tischhauser Annina
Published: July 2024

Rassismus als Macht- und Herrschaftsverhältnis durchdringt alle Ebenen des Zusammenlebens. Entsprechend tragen auch Bildungsinstitutionen wie eine Hochschule für Soziale Arbeit dazu bei, Rassismus zu aktualisieren. Mehr noch als die Soziale Arbeit allgemein ist die Hochschule ein weißer Raum – zumindest auf der Seite der Lehrenden. Doch inzwischen ist an einigen Stellen etwas in Bewegung geraten: Es mehren sich Wille und Wissen, rassismuskritisches Denken und Selbstreflexion zu fördern. Der folgende Artikel geht diesen Bewegungen nach, u. a. im Rahmen eines intensiven Gesprächs über ein abgeschlossenes Projekt zu Empowerment und Verlernen von Rassismus an der Berner Fachhochschule. Er gibt überraschende Einsichten frei zu den Spannungsfeldern und Erkenntnissen rassismuskritischer Arbeit im Kontext von Hochschule und Sozialer Arbeit.
Conceptualising culturally nourishing pedagogies for professional learning in Australian schooling
Authors: Lowe Kevin , Weuffen Sara , Woods Annette , Burgess Cathie , Vass Greg
Published: July 2024

There is a growing body of evidence highlighting effective pedagogical approaches for educating First Nations students around the world. Despite this evidence, and a plethora of culturally-inclusive aligned policies and professional strategies, many Aboriginal students continue to receive inequitable and poor-quality schooling in Australian schools in ways that do not meet their sovereign needs. While a range of culturally responsive / sustaining / competent / etc. practices have been argued to positively impact Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students' educational experiences, there remains a lack of cohesive understanding about the factors at play that impact student outcomes over a sustained period of time. This conceptual paper explores scholarship that has either provided empirical evidence of, or coherent descriptions about, cultural pedagogies to provocate a culturally nourishing framework and guide educators in working with Aboriginal students and knowledges. Beyond general descriptions, we conceptualise what such pedagogies might look like as observable attributes of classroom practice. The aim in doing so is to offer a framework that supports the authentic and effective professional learning of educators who work with, and learn from, local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students to actualise nourishing pedagogies throughout the everydayness of schooling.
LGBTQ+ student, staff, and parent perceptions of Australian school climates
Authors: Mann Trent , Van Bergen Penny , Burns Emma , Jones Tiffany
Published: July 2024

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/gender diverse, or queer (LGBTQ+) students, staff and parents can each perceive school as challenging environments. These challenges have typically been explored within three disparate bodies of research, however. Using a school climate lens, this study aimed to explore how LGBTQ+ student (n = 1926), staff (n = 198), and parent (n = 180) perceptions of school safety, interpersonal challenges and self-harm differ by roles, school types, school location, and gender modality. ANOVA and chi-square analyses showed that although LGBTQ+ students, staff and parents experience similar concerns in school safety, interpersonal challenges, and self-harm, students have higher prevalence on all indicators. Students in government/public, religious affiliated schools, and non-metropolitan schools had particularly high concerns, as did transgender and gender diverse students. This study offers important implications for school-wide interventions to promote positive school climates, with particular focus on school safety, anti-bullying, and self-harm, targeted to the needs of multiple members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Possibilities of decontaminating organic waste from swine-farming complexes using anaerobic digestion
Authors: Boyko Olexandra , Brygadyrenko Viktor , Chernysh Yelizaveta , Chubur Viktoriia , Roubík Hynek
Published: July 2024

Anaerobic digestion with simultaneous production of biogas is one of the most common methods of recycling, processing and decontamination of organic waste to produce alternative fuels. A commonly used indicator of the sanitary safety of the substrate is eggs of Ascaris suum nematodes of pigs, which are characterised by extremely high resistance to environmental factors. The aim is to investigate the effect of the mesophilic mode of anaerobic digestion on the activity of pathogens, particularly Ascaris suum eggs. The eggs of the studied nematode species were placed in a biogas installation at a temperature of 37 °C. The digestate samples with eggs were then taken every 4 days for 28 days, followed by larvae culture to determine the viability of the eggs. The results of our research have shown that the mesophilic regime of anaerobic digestion is an effective method of controlling parasites, but at the same time, it needs to be improved, since only 7.6% of A. suum eggs remained alive after a 1-day stay, about 50% after the week stay and about 9% in the third week stay in the biogas reactor. Thus, further optimisation of anaerobic fermentation in the mesophilic mode can be aimed at improving the suppression of pathogenic activity.