bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction value study of breast cancer tumor infiltrating lymphocyte levels based on ultrasound imaging radiomics
Authors: Zhang Min , Li Xuanyu , Zhou Pin , Zhang Panpan , Wang Gang , Lin Xianfang
Published: June 2024

Objective

Construct models based on grayscale ultrasound and radiomics and compare the efficacy of different models in preoperatively predicting the level of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in breast cancer.

Materials and methods

This study retrospectively collected clinical data and preoperative ultrasound images from 185 breast cancer patients confirmed by surgical pathology. Patients were randomly divided into a training set (n=111) and a testing set (n=74) using a 6:4 ratio. Based on a 10% threshold for tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) levels, patients were classified into low-level and high-level groups. Radiomic features were extracted and selected using the training set. The evaluation included assessing the relationship between TIL levels and both radiomic features and grayscale ultrasound features. Subsequently, grayscale ultrasound models, radiomic models, and nomograms combining radiomics score (Rad-score) and grayscale ultrasound features were established. The predictive performance of different models was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Calibration curves assessed the fit of the nomograms, and decision curve analysis (DCA) evaluated the clinical effectiveness of the models.

Results

Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that indistinct margin (P<0.001, Odds Ratio [OR]=0.214, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.103-1.026), posterior acoustic enhancement (P=0.027, OR=2.585, 95% CI: 1.116-5.987), and ipsilateral axillary lymph node enlargement (P=0.001, OR=4.214, 95% CI: 1.798-9.875) were independent predictive factors for high levels of TIL in breast cancer. In comparison to grayscale ultrasound model (Training set: Area under curve [AUC] 0.795; Testing set: AUC 0.720) and radiomics model (Training set: AUC 0.803; Testing set: AUC 0.759), the nomogram demonstrated superior discriminative ability on both the training (AUC 0.884) and testing (AUC 0.820) datasets. Calibration curves indicated high consistency between the nomogram model’s predicted probability of breast cancer TIL levels and the actual occurrence probability. DCA revealed that the radiomics model and the nomogram model achieved higher clinical net benefits compared to the grayscale ultrasound model.

Conclusion

The nomogram based on preoperative ultrasound radiomics features exhibits robust predictive capacity for the non-invasive evaluation of breast cancer TIL levels, potentially providing a significant basis for individualized treatment decisions in breast cancer.
Investigating phenotypic plasticity due to toxicants with exposure disparities in primary human breast cells in vitro
Authors: Schroeder Jade , Polemi Katelyn M. , Tapaswi Anagha , Svoboda Laurie K. , Sexton Jonathan Z. , Colacino Justin A.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer, as well as the primary cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Of the different breast cancer subtypes, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is particularly aggressive and is associated with poor prognosis. Black women are two to three times more likely to be diagnosed with TNBCs than white women. Recent experimental evidence suggests that basal-like TNBCs may derive from luminal cells which acquire basal characteristics through phenotypic plasticity, a newly recognized hallmark of cancer. Whether chemical exposures can promote phenotypic plasticity in breast cells is poorly understood.

Methods

To investigate further, we developed a high-content immunocytochemistry assay using normal human breast cells to test whether chemical exposures can impact luminal/basal plasticity by unbiased quantification of keratin 14 (KRT14), a basal-myoepithelial marker; keratin 8 (KRT8), a luminal-epithelial marker; and Hoechst 33342, a DNA marker. Six cell lines established from healthy tissue from donors to the Susan G. Komen Normal Tissue Bank were exposed for 48 hours to three different concentrations (0.1μM, 1μM, and 10μM) of eight ubiquitous chemicals (arsenic, BPA, BPS, cadmium, copper, DDE, lead, and PFNA), with documented exposure disparities in US Black women, in triplicate. Automated fluorescence image quantification was performed using Cell Profiler software, and a random-forest classifier was trained to classify individual cells as KRT8 positive, KRT14 positive, or hybrid (both KRT8 and KRT14 positive) using Cell Profiler Analyst.

Results and discussion

Results demonstrated significant concentration-dependent increases in hybrid populations in response to BPA, BPS, DDE, and PFNA. The increase in hybrid populations expressing both KRT14 and KRT8 is indicative of a phenotypically plastic progenitor-like population in line with known theories of carcinogenesis. Furthermore, BPA, BPS, DDE, and copper produced significant increases in cell proliferation, which could be indicative of a more malignant phenotype. These results further elucidate the relationship between chemical exposure and breast phenotypic plasticity and highlight potential environmental factors that may impact TNBC risk.
Spotlight on borderline-IGHV mutational status in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Rammal Souraya , Semaan Warde , Aprahamian Natalia , Moussallem Romy , Chebly Alain
Published: June 2024

Mutated or unmutated immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGHV) gene is an important prognostic factor in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, a small fraction of patients with CLL are classified as borderline (BL)-IGHV. Few data are available on this subgroup of CLL. In this paper, we retrospectively report and analyze data from 21 patients with BL-IGHV CLL, showing the heterogeneity of this subgroup of CLL and paving the way for more research focusing on this entity to optimize the management and treatment of patients with Borderline-IGHV CLL.
Pharmacokinetic evaluation of paclitaxel, albumin-binding paclitaxel, and liposomal-encapsulated albumin-binding paclitaxel upon gastric subserosal administration
Authors: Lee Yoontaek , Park Sun Mi , Song In Ho , Kim Bom Sahn , Park Hyun Soo , Moon Byung Seok , Kim Hyung-Ho
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Systemic chemotherapy is typically administered following radical gastrectomy for advanced stage. To attenuate systemic side effects, we evaluated the effectiveness of regional chemotherapy using paclitaxel, albumin-paclitaxel, and liposome-encapsulated albumin-paclitaxel via subserosal injection in rat models employing nuclear medicine and molecular imaging technology.

Method: Nine Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups: paclitaxel (n = 3), albumin-paclitaxel nano-particles (APNs; n = 3), and liposome-encapsulated APNs (n = 3). [123I]Iodo-paclitaxel ([123I]I-paclitaxel) was synthesized by conventional electrophilic radioiodination using tert-butylstannyl substituted paclitaxel as the precursor. Albumin-[123I]iodo-paclitaxel nanoparticles ([123I]APNs) were prepared using a desolvation technique. Liposome-encapsulated APNs (L-[123I]APNs) were prepared by thin-film hydration using DSPE-PEG2000, HSPC, and cholesterol. The rats in each group were injected with each test drug into the subserosa of the stomach antrum. After predetermined times (30 min, 2, 4, 8 h, and 24 h), molecular images of nuclear medicine were acquired using single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography.

Results: Paclitaxel, APNs, and L-APNs showed a high cumulative distribution in the stomach, with L-APNs showing the largest area under the curve. Most drugs administered via the gastric subserosal route are distributed in the stomach and intestines, with a low uptake of less than 1% in other major organs. The time to reach the maximum concentration in the intestine for L-APNs, paclitaxel, and APNs was 6.67, 5.33, and 4.00 h, respectively.

Conclusion: These preliminary results imply that L-APNs have the potential to serve as a novel paclitaxel preparation method for the regional treatment of gastric cancer.
PDE4 inhibitors: potential protective effects in inflammation and vascular diseases
Authors: Fan Tianfei , Wang Wenjing , Wang Yao , Zeng Mingtang , Liu Yi , Zhu Shuyao , Yang Lin
Published: June 2024

Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors are effective therapeutic agents for various inflammatory diseases. Roflumilast, apremilast, and crisaborole have been developed and approved for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease psoriatic arthritis, and atopic dermatitis. Inflammation underlies many vascular diseases, yet the role of PDE4 inhibitors in these diseases remains inadequately explored. This review elucidates the clinical applications and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of PDE4 inhibitors, as well as their potential protective effects on vascular diseases. Additionally, strategies to mitigate the adverse reactions of PDE4 inhibitors are discussed. This article emphasizes the need for further exploration of the therapeutic potential and clinical applications of PDE4 inhibitors in vascular diseases.
Radioassay of the materials for AMoRE-II experiment
Authors: Agrawal A. , Alenkov V. V. , Aryal P. , Bae H. , Beyer J. , Bhandari B. , Boiko R. S. , Boonin K. , Buzanov O. , Byeon C. R. , Chanthima N. , Cheoun M. K. , Choe J. S. , Choi S. , Choudhury S. , Chung J. S. , Danevich F. A. , Djamal M. , Drung D. , Enss C. , Fleischmann A. , Gangapshev A. M. , Gastaldo L. , Gavrilyuk Y. M. , Gezhaev A. M. , Gileva O. , Grigorieva V. D. , Gurentsov V. I. , Ha C. , Ha D. H. , Ha E. J. , Hwang D. H. , Jeon E. J. , Jeon J. A. , Jo H. S. , Kaewkhao J. , Kang C. S. , Kang W. G. , Kazalov V. V. , Kempf S. , Khan A. , Khan S. , Kim D. Y. , Kim G. W. , Kim H. B. , Kim H. J. , Kim H. J. , Kim H. L. , Kim H. S. , Kim M. B. , Kim S. C. , Kim S. K. , Kim S. R. , Kim W. T. , Kim Y. D. , Kim Y. H. , Kirdsiri K. , Ko Y. J. , Kobychev V. V. , Kornoukhov V. , Kuzminov V. V. , Kwon D. H. , Lee C. H. , Lee D. Y. , Lee E. K. , Lee H. J. , Lee H. S. , Lee J. , Lee J. Y. , Lee K. B. , Lee M. H. , Lee M. K. , Lee S. W. , Lee Y. C. , Leonard D. S. , Lim H. S. , Mailyan B. , Makarov E. P. , Nyanda P. , Oh Y. , Olsen S. L. , Panasenko S. I. , Park H. K. , Park H. S. , Park K. S. , Park S. Y. , Polischuk O. G. , Prihtiadi H. , Ra S. , Ratkevich S. S. , Rooh G. , Sari M. B. , Seo J. , Seo K. M. , Sharma B. , Shin K. A. , Shlegel V. N. , Siyeon K. , So J. , Sokur N. V. , Son J. K. , Song J. W. , Srisittipokakun N. , Tretyak V. I. , Wirawan R. , Woo K. R. , Yeon H. J. , Yoon Y. S. , Yue Q.
Published: June 2024

The AMoRE-II experiment will search for the 0νββ decay of 100Mo nuclei using molybdate crystal scintillators, operating at milli-Kelvin (mK) temperatures, with a total of 80 kg of 100Mo. The background goal for the experiment is 10–4 counts/keV/kg/year in the region of interest around the 0νββ decay Q-value of 3,034 keV. To achieve this level, the rate of background signals arising from emissions produced by decays of radioactive impurities in the detector and shielding materials must be strictly controlled. To do this, concentrations of such impurities are measured and are controlled through materials selection and purification. In this paper, we describe the design and the construction materials used to build the AMoRE-II detector and shielding system, including active and passive shielding, the cryostat, and the detector holders and instrumentation, and we report on measurements of radioactive impurities within candidate and selected materials.
Exploring the relevance of the type of horizontal separator to optimize the extraction efficacy for the Arbequina variety
Authors: Boudebouz Abdelaziz , Hermoso Juan-F , Martí Esteve , Ninot Antonia , Boqué Ricard , Mestres Montserrat , Aceña Laura , Veneziani Gianluca , Selvaggini Roberto , Servili Maurizio , Romero Agustí
Published: June 2024

The productivity of virgin olive oil depends not only on agronomic factors but also on the technological factors of the extraction process. The ‘Arbequina’ variety has extractability problems, which is a challenge for master millers anywhere. This work aims to evaluate the behavior of different decanters and seeks to modulate the effect of some processing parameters and their interactions with oil extraction efficiency in the case of ‘Arbequina.’ Fruit characteristics, processing parameters, and extractability were collected over 10 years from 38 decanters that belong to five different brands. The results have shown that fruit moisture is the most relevant factor for oil extractability, especially over 52%. Furthermore, extractability is positively correlated with malaxing temperature, addition of water, and total fat content in the fruit. However, the results show that before applying a regulation, the type of decanter must be considered. The model used in this study has allowed us to optimize the regulations for each type of decanter to reduce oil losses within the pomace, achieving an extraction efficiency within the range of 78%–91.5%. In fact, the best extraction efficiency results (91.5%) were obtained by processing at temperatures >26°C and water injection of 5%.
Estimation of soybean yield based on high-throughput phenotyping and machine learning
Authors: Li Xiuni , Chen Menggen , He Shuyuan , Xu Xiangyao , He Lingxiao , Wang Li , Gao Yang , Tang Fenda , Gong Tao , Wang Wenyan , Xu Mei , Liu Chunyan , Yu Liang , Liu Weiguo , Yang Wenyu
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Soybeans are an important crop used for food, oil, and feed. However, China’s soybean self-sufficiency is highly inadequate, with an annual import volume exceeding 80%. RGB cameras serve as powerful tools for estimating crop yield, and machine learning is a practical method based on various features, providing improved yield predictions. However, selecting different input parameters and models, specifically optimal features and model effects, significantly influences soybean yield prediction.

Methods

This study used an RGB camera to capture soybean canopy images from both the side and top perspectives during the R6 stage (pod filling stage) for 240 soybean varieties (a natural population formed by four provinces in China: Sichuan, Yunnan, Chongqing, and Guizhou). From these images, the morphological, color, and textural features of the soybeans were extracted. Subsequently, feature selection was performed on the image parameters using a Pearson correlation coefficient threshold ≥0.5. Five machine learning methods, namely, CatBoost, LightGBM, RF, GBDT, and MLP, were employed to establish soybean yield estimation models based on the individual and combined image parameters from the two perspectives extracted from RGB images.

Results

(1) GBDT is the optimal model for predicting soybean yield, with a test set R2 value of 0.82, an RMSE of 1.99 g/plant, and an MAE of 3.12%. (2) The fusion of multiangle and multitype indicators is conducive to improving soybean yield prediction accuracy.

Conclusion

Therefore, this combination of parameters extracted from RGB images via machine learning has great potential for estimating soybean yield, providing a theoretical basis and technical support for accelerating the soybean breeding process.
Effects of different sowing dates on biomass allocation of various organs and allometric growth of Fagopyrum esculentum
Authors: Wang Heqi , Wang Congwen , Fan Gaohua , Fu Changxing , Huang Yingxin , Liu Xuhe , Wang Shirui , Wang Kunling
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The sowing date plays a crucial role in influencing the growth and reproduction of plants, with its specific impact on biomass allocation and allometric growth remaining unclear. Understanding these effects is essential for optimizing agricultural practices and enhancing crop productivity.

Methods

To investigate the effects of sowing dates on biomass allocation and allometric growth, a field experiment was conducted with sequential sowings of Fagopyrum esculentum from April 12th to August 11th in 2018. Biomass measurements were taken across various plant organs, and corresponding allocation calculations were made. A detailed analysis of the allometric growth relationship involving organ biomass variations was performed.

Results

The study revealed that the accumulation and allocation of organ biomass in buckwheat were significantly impacted by the sowing dates. Delayed planting led to reduced vegetative growth and increased biomass allocation towards reproduction. Allometric parameters such as exponent, constant, and individual size of buckwheat were notably affected by delayed planting. Interestingly, the allometric exponents governing the relationships between reproductive vs. vegetative biomass and belowground vs. aboveground biomass exhibited varying trends across different sowing dates.

Discussion

Notably, late sowings resulted in significantly higher reproductive biomass compared to early and middle sowings. These findings highlight the nuanced relationship between plant size and reproductive biomass under different sowing dates, emphasizing the critical role of planting timing in shaping mature plant sizes and reproductive outcomes. The study underscores the importance of considering sowing dates in agricultural practices to optimize plant growth and productivity.
Exogenous melatonin delays oxidative browning in litchi during cold storage by regulating biochemical attributes and gene expression
Authors: Marak Kilchira A. , Mir Hidayatullah , Siddiqui Mohammed Wasim , Singh Preeti , Homa Fozia , Alamri Saud
Published: June 2024

Oxidative damage leading to loss of nutritional quality and pericarp discoloration of harvested litchi fruits drastically limits consumer acceptance and marketability. In the present investigation, the impact of postharvest melatonin application at different concentrations, i.e., 0.1 mM, 0.25 mM, and 0.5 mM, on fruit quality and shelf life of litchi fruits under cold storage conditions was studied. The results revealed the positive effect of melatonin application at all concentrations on fruit quality and shelf life. However, treatment with 0.5 mM concentration of melatonin resulted in minimum weight loss, decay loss, pericarp discoloration, and also retained higher levels of TSS, acidity, total sugar, ascorbic acid, anthocyanin, antioxidant, and phenolics content during cold storage. Melatonin administration also restricted the enzymatic activity of the polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) enzymes in the fruit pericarp and maintained freshness of the fruits up to 30 days in cold storage. At the molecular level, a similar reduction in the expression of browning-associated genes, LcPPO, LcPOD, and Laccase, was detected in preserved litchi fruits treated with melatonin. Anthocyanin biosynthetic genes, LcUFGT and LcDFR, on the other hand showed enhanced expression in melatonin treated fruits compared to untreated fruits. Melatonin, owing to its antioxidant properties, when applied to harvested litchi fruits retained taste, nutritional quality and red color pericarp up till 30 days in cold storage.
Public trust and state management of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria
Authors: Abayomi Kolapo Quadri
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic generated an unprecedented global crisis with long-lasting consequences. In this study, I examine the bi-directional nexus between public trust and the management of the pandemic in Nigeria. I argue that there is a relationship between government management of public policies and the level of public trust. The research draws on the Theory of Trust, in-depth interviews (IDI), and focus group discussions (FGD) and is supported by other secondary sources. I found that the main reason for citizens’ resistance to major policies introduced to contain the spread of the pandemic was due to an entrenched lack of trust in the government, its agencies, and officials. The findings also indicate that a lack of transparency and accountability in the management of the pandemic deepened the already fractured public trust. This was particularly visible in the shrouded pattern of disbursing cash transfers, allegations of corruption against the managers of the pandemic, and evidence of concealed palliatives meant to cushion the negative economic effects of the pandemic. The article recommends that the government needs to promote public trust by adopting an open governance approach that institutionalises transparency and accountability, fosters constant and consistent citizen engagement on government policies and programmes, strengthens critical agencies, and engenders a sense of belonging for all citizens.
Validating the Spanish translation of the posttraumatic stress disorder checklist (PCL-5) in a sample of individuals with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Haghish E. F. , Sahuquillo Juan , Radoi Andreea , Pomposo Ingio , Lozano Guillermo Carbayo
Published: June 2024

Introduction

There is controversy regarding the comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). The present study translated the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) to Spanish and validated it in a sample of patients with TBI 6 months after the injury.

Methods

The study included 233 patients (162 males and 71 females) recruited from four Spanish hospitals within 24 h of traumatic brain injury. A total of 12.2% of the sample met the provisional PTSD diagnostic criteria, and the prevalence was equal between male and female participants.

Results

The analysis confirmed the internal consistency of the translated instrument (α = 0.95). The concurrent validity of the instrument was confirmed based on high correlation coefficients of 0.7 and 0.74 with the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), respectively. Exploratory factor analysis also confirmed that the items on the PCL-5 can be differentiated from the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 items. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to examine the structural validity of the Spanish translation of the PCL-5 with three different models. CFA partially confirmed the four-factor PTSD model, whereas both the six-factor anhedonia model and the seven-factor hybrid model showed adequate fit. However, the difference between the anhedonia and hybrid models was not statistically significant; moreover, both models showed signs of overfitting. Therefore, the utility of these models should be reexamined in future studies.

Conclusion

Overall, the results suggest that the Spanish translation of the PCL-5 is a reliable and valid instrument for screening PTSD symptoms among Spanish TBI patients. The Spanish translation of the PCL-5 is also presented in the manuscript.
Affect labeling: a promising new neuroscience-based approach to treating combat-related PTSD in veterans
Authors: Burklund Lisa J. , Davies Carolyn D. , Niles Andrea , Torre Jared B. , Brown Lily , Vinograd Meghan , Lieberman Matthew D. , Craske Michelle G.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

A significant portion of individuals exposed to combat-related trauma will develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a severe, debilitating disorder with adverse impacts on both mental and physical functioning. Current treatments are effective for many individuals, however, there is a need for new treatment approaches to improve outcomes in PTSD and address the many existing barriers to seeking or completing treatment.

Methods

In this open trial pilot study, we tested a novel, brief, computer-based intervention for PTSD utilizing “affect labeling” that was inspired by recent advances in neuroscience with U.S. veterans.

Results

As expected, pre-intervention clinical and fMRI neuroimaging data indicated that U.S. veterans with combat-related PTSD (N = 20) had significantly higher PTSD symptoms, depression symptoms, and amygdala reactivity to trauma cues than trauma-exposed healthy control veterans (N = 20). Veterans with PTSD who completed the affect labeling intervention (N = 13) evidenced reduced PTSD symptoms and these reductions were correlated with reductions in amygdala reactivity.

Discussion

Results from this initial proof-of-concept study are intriguing and suggest that affect labeling training offers significant potential as a novel, cost-effective, computer-based intervention for PTSD. Implications and next steps for further developing affect labeling interventions for PTSD are discussed.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT05924399.
Evaluation of two study demands-resources-based interventions: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Körner Lorena Sarah , Kortsch Timo , Rieder Kerstin , Rigotti Thomas
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Higher education students experience significant levels of exhaustion in their studies, yet there are limited evidence-based support programs available. Therefore, this study evaluated a novel intervention approach by testing the effectiveness of two online interventions based on the study demands-resources framework. These interventions aimed to balance demands and resources. Derived from the theoretical assumptions of the framework, we hypothesized that the interventions would increase study and personal resources, engagement, and study crafting, and decrease study demands, exhaustion, and self-undermining. Additionally, we hypothesized that demands and resources would mediate the effects of the intervention on engagement, exhaustion, study crafting, and self-undermining.

Methods

Conducted as a randomized controlled trial with a waitlist control group (n = 71), the study involved participants in two intervention groups who engaged with the interventions for 2 weeks. Intervention group 1 (n = 64) focused on adapting demands, while intervention group 2 (n = 70) focused on increasing resources. The design allowed for a comparison of the effectiveness of these different approaches. Participants completed questionnaires before and after the intervention, and at a 5-week follow-up.

Results

Results of the analyses of variance with repeated measures revealed that the interventions had significant positive effects on the personal resource mindfulness, two study crafting strategies, self-undermining, and exhaustion. Notably, intervention group 2 exhibited more positive outcomes. The hypothesized mediation effects through mindfulness were partially supported.

Discussion

The study demonstrates the considerable potential of interventions based on the study demands-resources framework for higher education institutions in supporting student well-being.
Perceived chronic social adversity and cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents: the mediating role of rumination and moderating role of mindfulness
Authors: Chen Rui , Hu Yang , Shi Hui-fen , Fang Yong , Fan Cui-ying
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds

The prevalence of cyberbullying has brought about many adverse effects on adolescents’ mental health. Although current studies have shown that perceived chronic social adversity (PCSA) is closely related to cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents, the underlying mechanism of the relationship between the two remains relatively unclear. This study investigated the association of PCSA, rumination, mindfulness, and cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents, building upon the general strain theory, the general aggressive model, and the limited resource of self-control theory.

Methods

A sample of 477 Chinese high school students (Mage = 15.84 years, SDage = 0.67, 49.69% female) completed the Perceived Chronic Social Adversity Questionnaire, the Ruminative Responses Scale, the Child and Adolescent Mindfulness Measure, and the cyberbullying subscale of the Revised Cyber Bullying Inventory. The current study constructed a moderated mediation model to examine the relationship between PCSA and cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents and assessed the mediating role of rumination and the moderating role of mindfulness.

Results

The results revealed a significant positive correlation between PCSA and cyberbullying perpetration. Rumination mediated the relationship between PCSA and cyberbullying perpetration, whereas mindfulness moderated the latter half of the mediation pathway. Specifically, compared to adolescents with higher mindfulness, the association between rumination and cyberbullying perpetration is greater for adolescents with lower mindfulness.

Conclusion

The results further deepen our understanding of the mechanisms linking subjective perception of negative life events and cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents from the interaction of multiple factors, thus providing a basis for future interventions to encourage adolescents to properly cope with social adversity and promote positive mental health to reduce the risk of cyberbullying.
Recovery of adults with autism spectrum disorder during intensive inpatient treatment: a qualitative study
Authors: Bloemert Hendrikje , Sizoo Bram B. , Verhoeven Elisabeth W. M. , Beekman Aartjan , van Meijel Berno
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Although some adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require intensive and specialized ASD treatment, there is little research on how these adults experience the recovery process. Recovery is defined as the significant improvement in general functioning compared to the situation prior to treatment.

Methods

This qualitative study describes the recovery process from the perspective of adults on the autism spectrum during intensive inpatient treatment. Semi-structured interviews (n = 15) were carried out and analyzed according to the principles of grounded theory.

Results

Our results indicate that, given the specific characteristics of autism, therapeutic interventions and goal-oriented work cannot be carried out successfully, and the recovery process cannot begin, if no good working relationship has been established, and if care is not organized in ways that a person on the autism spectrum finds clear and predictable.
Assessing the associations of 1,400 blood metabolites with major depressive disorder: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Dong Tiantian , Wang Xingxin , Jia Zhixia , Yang Jiguo , Liu Yuanxiang
Published: June 2024

Background and objectives

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent and debilitating health conditions worldwide. Previous studies have reported a link between metabolic dysregulation and MDD. However, evidence for a causal relationship between blood metabolites and MDD is lacking.

Methods

Using a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis (MR), we assessed the causal relationship between 1,400 serum metabolites and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The Inverse Variance Weighted method (IVW) was employed to estimate the causal association between exposures and outcomes. Additionally, MR-Egger regression, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode methods were used as supplementary approaches for a comprehensive appraisal of the causality between blood metabolites and MDD. Pleiotropy and heterogeneity tests were also conducted. Lastly, the relevant metabolites were subjected to metabolite function analysis, and a reverse MR was implemented to explore the potential influence of MDD on these metabolites.

Results

After rigorous screening, we identified 34 known metabolites, 13 unknown metabolites, and 18 metabolite ratios associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Among all metabolites, 33 were found to have positive associations, and 32 had negative associations. The top five metabolites that increased the risk of MDD were the Arachidonate (20:4n6) to linoleate (18:2n6) ratio, LysoPE(18:0/0:0), N-acetyl-beta-alanine levels, Arachidonate (20:4n6) to oleate to vaccenate (18:1) ratio, Glutaminylglutamine, and Threonine to pyruvate ratio. Conversely, the top five metabolites that decreased the risk of MDD were N6-Acetyl-L-lysine, Oleoyl-linoleoyl-glycerol (18:1 to 18:2) [2] to linoleoyl-arachidonoyl-glycerol (18:2 to 20:4) [2] ratio, Methionine to phosphate ratio, Pregnanediol 3-O-glucuronide, and 6-Oxopiperidine-2-carboxylic acid. Metabolite function enrichment was primarily concentrated in pathways such as Bile Acid Biosynthesis (FDR=0.177), Glutathione Metabolism (FDR=0.177), Threonine, and 2-Oxobutanoate Degradation (FDR=0.177). In addition, enrichment was noted in pathways like Valine, Leucine, and Isoleucine Biosynthesis (p=0.04), as well as Ascorbate and Aldarate Metabolism (p=0.04).

Discussion

Within a pool of 1,400 blood metabolites, we identified 34 known metabolites and 13 unknown metabolites, as well as 18 metabolite ratios associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Additionally, three functionally enriched groups and two metabolic pathways were selected. The integration of genomics and metabolomics has provided significant insights for the screening and prevention of MDD.
Clinical decision-making before discharge in hospitalized persons with schizophrenia: a Spanish Delphi expert consensus
Authors: Montes José Manuel , Agüera-Ortiz Luis , Mané Anna , Martinez-Raga Jose , Gutiérrez-Rojas Luis
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The care of people with schizophrenia (PWS) is usually provided in an outpatient setting by community mental health teams. However, PWS frequently require inpatient treatment because of a wide array of clinical, personal and/or social situations. Unfortunately, to our knowledge, there are no guidelines available to help psychiatrists in the decision-making process on hospital discharge for PWS. The aim of this project was to develop an expert consensus on discharge criteria for PWS after their stay in an acute inpatient psychiatric unit.

Methods

Using a modified Delphi method a group of 42 psychiatrists throughout Spain evaluated four areas of interest regarding this issue: clinical symptomatology, treatment-related factors, follow-up health care units after discharge, and physical health and monitoring.

Results

After two rounds, among the 64 statements, a consensus was reached for 59 (92.2%) statements. In three (17.7%) of the 17 statements on ‘clinical symptomatology’ and 2 (13.3%) of the 15 statements on ‘follow-up health care units after discharge’, a consensus was not reached; in contrast, a consensus was reached for all statements concerning ‘treatment-related factors’ and those concerning ‘physical health and monitoring’. The consensus results highlight the importance for discharge of the control of symptoms rather than their suppression during admission and of tolerability in the selection of anantipsychotic.

Discussion

Although there is a lack of relevant data for guiding the discharge of PWS after hospitalization in an acute inpatient psychiatric unit, we expect that this consensus based on expert opinion may help clinicians to take appropriate decisions.
Gender differences in the quantitative and qualitative assessment of chronic pain among older people
Authors: Puto Grażyna , Repka Iwona , Gniadek Agnieszka
Published: June 2024

Background

Pain, regardless of its causes, is a subjective and multidimensional experience that consists of sensory, emotional and cognitive factors that cannot be adequately captured by a single number on a pain scale. The aim of the study was to understand gender differences in the assessment of quantitative and qualitative chronic pain among older people.

Methods

The study used a questionnaire that included questions about demographic and social characteristics as well as the following scales: Abbreviated Mental Score (AMTS), Personal Activities of Daily Living (PADL) by Katz, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) by Lawton, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ).

Results

The pain rating index based on rank values of adjectives was higher among women than men (18.36 ± 7.81 vs. 17.17 ± 9.69, p = 0.04). The analysis of the frequency of selection of individual adjectives describing the sensory aspects of pain showed that men described the pain as “stabbing” more often than women (26.1% vs. 14.3%, p < 0.05). Women chose adjectives from the emotional category more often than men (59.8% vs. 75.4%, p < 0.05), describing the pain as “disgusting” (8.9% vs. 1.4%, p < 0.05), “unbearable” (19.6 vs. 4.3, p < 0.05). In the subjective category, there was a difference between women and men in terms of describing pain as “terrible” (23.2% vs. 7.2%, p < 0.05) and as “unpleasant” (11.6% vs. 23.3%, p < 0 0.05).

Conclusion

When referring to pain, women tend to employ more detailed and factual language, indicative of heightened emotional sensitivity. Men tend to use fewer words and focus on the sensory aspects of pain. Subjective aspects of pain were demonstrated by both women and men.
The diagnostic agreement of sarcopenic obesity with different definitions in Chinese community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Hu Fengjuan , Zhang Gongchang , Xu Zhigang , Zuo Zhiliang , Huang Ning , Ge Meiling , Liu Xiaolei , Dong Birong
Published: June 2024

Background

In 2022, the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) launched a consensus on the diagnostic methods for sarcopenic obesity (SO). The study aimed to identify the prevalence and diagnostic agreement of SO using different diagnostic methods in a cohort of subjects from West China aged at least 50 years old.

Methods

A large multi-ethnic sample of 4,155 participants from the West China Health and Aging Trend (WCHAT) study was analyzed. SO was defined according to the newly published consensus of the ESPEN/EASO. Furthermore, SO was diagnosed as a combination of sarcopenia and obesity. The criteria established by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 (AWGS2019) were used to define sarcopenia. Obesity was defined by four widely used indicators: percent of body fat (PBF), visceral fat area (VFA), waist circumference (WC), and body mass index (BMI). Cohen’s kappa was used to analyze the diagnostic agreement of the above five diagnostic methods.

Results

A total of 4,155 participants were part of the study, including 1,499 men (63.76 ± 8.23 years) and 2,656 women (61.61 ± 8.20 years). The prevalence of SO was 0.63–7.22% with different diagnostic methods. The diagnosis agreement of five diagnostic methods was poor-to-good (κ: 0.06–0.67). The consensus by the ESPEN/EASO had the poorest agreement with other methods (κ: 0.06–0.32). AWGS+VFA had the best agreement with AWGS+WC (κ = 0.67), and consensus by the ESPEN/EASO had the best agreement with AWGS+ PBF (κ = 0.32).

Conclusion

The prevalence and diagnostic agreement of SO varies considerably between different diagnostic methods. AWGS+WC has the highest diagnostic rate in the diagnosis of SO, whereas AWGS+BMI has the lowest. AWGS+VFA has a relatively good diagnostic agreement with other diagnostic methods, while the consensus of the ESPEN/EASO has a poor diagnostic agreement. AWGS+PBF may be suitable for the alternative diagnosis of the 2022 ESPEN/EASO.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of social support on turnover intention in clinical nurses
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhou Xiang , Bai Xue , Liu Beibei , Chen Fengzhi , Chang Lixia , Liu Hongli
Published: June 2024

Background

Nurse turnover has become a salient issue in healthcare system worldwide and seriously compromises patient outcomes. Social support is considered an effective contributor to alleviate nurse turnover intention (TI). However, the degree of correlation between social support and nurse TI remains elusive.

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the strength of the effectiveness of social support on TI among nurses as well as its potential moderators.

Design

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.

Methods

To obtained qualified studies, two researchers searched Embase, PubMed, Web of science, CINAHL, CNKI, WanFang, and Chinese Medical Journal Full Text Database from inception to January 6, 2024. Meta-analysis, publication bias, and sensitivity analysis were carried out on the included studies using CMA 3.0 software, and the moderating effect was verified through meta-analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

A total of 38 studies were obtained, involving 63,989 clinical nurses. The comprehensive effect size of the random effect model showed a significant medium negative correlation between social support and TI among nurses (p < 0.001). The sample size and TI measurement tools significantly moderated the correlation between social support and TI (p < 0.050). However, nurse department, gender, data collection time, and social support measurement tools did not moderate the correlation between the two variables.

Conclusion

Social support is negatively associated with TI in nurses. Nursing administrators and the medical community should fully recognize the importance of social support for nurses and take corresponding measures to enhance it, thereby reducing TI and ensuring the stability of the nursing team.
Ozone treatment of meat and meat products: a review
Authors: Giménez Belén , Zaritzky Noemí , Graiver Natalia
Published: June 2024

Ozone treatment is a non-thermal method for disinfection; ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent that has been shown to be effective in reducing microbial load, extending the shelf life of meat products. This mini-review covers the analysis of the antimicrobial ozone activity in different meats (beef, poultry, pork, seafood, etc.), emphasizing the ozone application methods (liquid or gaseous phase), the applied concentrations and contact times and the effects of ozone treatment on meat quality, safety, and sensory properties. It has been demonstrated that ozone is effective against a broad range of microorganisms, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, spores, and vegetative cells. The efficacy of ozone depends on various factors, such as concentration, type of treatment, temperature, and presence of organic material. Ozone treatment, known for its rapid decomposition and lack of residue, provides an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical sanitizers. Ozone treatments exhibit promising results in enhancing the safety and extending the shelf life of meat products. According to the findings, the application of ozone is an effective technology for prolonging the shelf life of different types of meats and meat products, requiring careful establishment of conditions on a case-by-case basis.
Influence of semolina characteristics and pasta-making process on the physicochemical, structural, and sensorial properties of commercial durum wheat spaghetti
Authors: Carpentieri Serena , Larrea-Wachtendorff Dominique , Ferrari Giovanna
Published: June 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of semolina characteristics and pasta-making processing on the quality of durum wheat spaghetti (A, B, and C) using a reverse engineering approach.

Methods: Proximate composition, color, granulometry, pasting and thermal properties were determined to characterize semolina, while pasting, thermal and cooking properties, microstructure and sensory profile were evaluated for spaghetti.

Results and Discussion: The sensory profile of sample A, in terms of higher yellowness and hardness, lower stickiness, agreed with the higher transition temperatures (60.07–74.6 °C) and enthalpy of amylose-lipid complexes, degree of starch gelatinization, pasting viscosities and compression force, lower water absorption, cooking losses (4.78 g/100 g), and adhesiveness (0.39 N/mm). Moreover, the microstructural analysis showed a network with denser areas, and starch granules strongly embedded in the gluten matrix for sample A with respect to samples B and C. These results might be ascribed to the semolina characteristics. Sample A was richer in starch (71.4%), lipid (1.6%), and protein (14.0%), and the higher drying temperatures affected protein crosslinking, starch organization, cooking properties, and appearance of spaghetti. The approach used in this study could be suitable in gathering the different phenomena occurring in pasta production process which concur to give spaghetti its distinctive quality.
Handheld robotic device for endoscopic neurosurgery: system integration and pre-clinical evaluation
Authors: Dimitrakakis Emmanouil , Dwyer George , Newall Nicola , Khan Danyal Z. , Marcus Hani J. , Stoyanov Danail
Published: June 2024

The Expanded Endoscopic Endonasal Approach, one of the best examples of endoscopic neurosurgery, allows access to the skull base through the natural orifice of the nostril. Current standard instruments lack articulation limiting operative access and surgeon dexterity, and thus, could benefit from robotic articulation. In this study, a handheld robotic system with a series of detachable end-effectors for this approach is presented. This system is comprised of interchangeable articulated 2/3 degrees-of-freedom 3 mm instruments that expand the operative workspace and enhance the surgeon’s dexterity, an ergonomically designed handheld controller with a rotating joystick-body that can be placed at the position most comfortable for the user, and the accompanying control box. The robotic instruments were experimentally evaluated for their workspace, structural integrity, and force-delivery capabilities. The entire system was then tested in a pre-clinical context during a phantom feasibility test, followed up by a cadaveric pilot study by a cohort of surgeons of varied clinical experience. Results from this series of experiments suggested enhanced dexterity and adequate robustness that could be associated with feasibility in a clinical context, as well as improvement over current neurosurgical instruments.