bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameter effect on the novel swashplateless rotor control
Authors: Tang Linkai , Chang Min , Huang Yaping , Zu Siliang , Bai Junqiang
Published: March 2024

To achieve underactuated control, a novel swashplateless rotor configuration of asymmetric inclined hinges which can be driven by periodic sinusoidal torque is studied, hopefully eliminating the conventional swashplate mechanism and multiple actuators. Therefore, the traditional mechanism can be intelligently replaced by software. However, high-frequency torque variation will invariably result in vibration noise and energy loss.Thus it is critical to properly design the swashplateless rotor in order to achieve a control process with less torque variation. As a result, in both numerical simulation and experiments, we performed sensitivity analyses on related design parameters such as hinge eccentricity, hinge inclined angle, and wingtip hammer position. The parameter effect on swashplateless rotor control was discovered through the analyses, and the basic law of its design was obtained.
The Impact of Academic Development Structures on Self-Perception: Honors Versus Nonhonors University Students
Authors: Bean Beatrice M. , Rickert Nicolette P.
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the current study was to determine if there were variations in the self-perceptions of honors and nonhonors collegiate students in areas of academic and nonacademic self-concept. This research was important as it provides emphasis on an understudied population and gathers a deeper understanding of intricacies related to self-concept by incorporating comprehensive investigative measures. A sample of 236 students from a single institution (72.6% female, 65.7% White, 20.8% honors, ages 18–51) took an online survey consisting of questions related to self-concept. By utilizing a series of two-tailed, independent samples t-tests we examined the differences between student self-perceptions of self-concept. Results indicated that honors students had statistically significantly higher academic self-concepts than nonhonors students. Both groups of students scored similarly across social self-concepts; however, nonhonors students had higher perceptions of their physical self-concepts. These findings will provide new insights into how honors enrollment impacts the formation of self-image.
Understanding the roles of video cameras in online English courses: A qualitative inquiry into students and foreign lecturers’ conceptions
Authors: Waluyo Budi , Wangdi Thinley
Published: March 2024

Turning video cameras on or off during synchronous online learning has been a topic of attention lately. Whether teachers should urge students to turn on their cameras or let them switch them on or off is a matter of dispute, but it has yet to be decided due to a lack of empirical data. To contribute, this study specifically explored EFL students’ and foreign English lecturers’ perspectives on the benefits of cameras on or off during online English classes based on their recent academic year teaching and learning English online. A qualitative survey with a phenomenological descriptive approach was employed. The thematic analysis results identified students’ and lecturers’ converging perspectives that the camera on improves student learning engagement, student-student and student-teacher relationships, and classroom atmosphere. Yet, they acknowledged that the camera off has equally important benefits, such as maintaining one’s privacy or comfort, reducing learning anxiety, enabling better concentration, and fostering a readiness to speak English. This study further elaborates on the pedagogical implications of the findings for online English learning.
Persuading climate skeptics with facts: Effects of causal evidence vs. consensus messaging
Authors: Kim Jin Woo , Liu Ruijun
Published: March 2024

Communicating the “97%’’ scientific consensus has been the centerpiece of the effort to persuade climate skeptics. Still, this strategy may not work well for those who mistrust climate scientists, to begin with. We examine how the American public—Republicans in particular—respond when provided with a relatively detailed causal explanation summarizing why scientists have concluded that human activities are responsible for climate change. Based on a preregistered survey experiment ( N = 3007), we assessed the effectiveness of detailed causal evidence versus traditional consensus messaging. We found that both treatments had noticeable effects on belief in human-caused climate change, with the causal evidence being slightly more effective, though we did not observe equivalent patterns for changes in attitudes toward climate policies. We conclude that conveying scientific information serves more as a remedy than a cure, reducing but not eliminating misperceptions about climate change and opposition to climate policies.
Book review: Satyaki Roy, Contours of Value Capture: India’s Neoliberal Path of Industrial Development
Authors: Goyal Meghna
Published: March 2024

Satyaki Roy, Contours of Value Capture: India’s Neoliberal Path of Industrial Development (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2020), 202 pp., US$99.99, ISBN: 9781108486910 (Hardback).
Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction Using Fascia Lata Autograft Versus Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Patients 65 Years and Older With Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: So Sang-Pil , Kholinne Erica , Ben Hui , Lee Jun-Bum , Alsaqri Hood , Lee Hyun June , Koh Kyoung Hwan , Jeon In-Ho
Published: March 2024

Background:

Arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have both shown favorable outcomes in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs).

Purpose:

To (1) compare the clinical outcomes of ASCR versus RSA in patients aged ≥65 years with IRCTs and (2) compare serial changes in clinical outcomes between treatment groups.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This study included patients with IRCTs without glenohumeral osteoarthritis who underwent either ASCR or RSA between March 2013 and December 2020 and had at least 2 years of follow-up data. We assessed active range of motion, a visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score at the preoperative, short-term (postoperative 6-12 months), and final follow-up times.

Results:

In total, 64 patients (ASCR, 31 patients; RSA, 33 patients) were included. The mean age of patients was 71.3 ± 4.4 and 72.9 ± 4.1 years, and the mean final follow-up duration was 42 ± 21.8 and 37.7 ± 21.7 months in the ASCR and RSA groups, respectively. At the short-term follow-up, RSA achieved significant improvements in all clinical outcomes, except for internal rotation (IR), while ASCR only showed significant improvements in VAS pain, ASES, and SANE scores. Compared with the preoperative period, both ASCR and RSA achieved significant improvements in all clinical outcomes, except for IR in the RSA group at the final follow-up. The ASCR group achieved better IR and ASES scores at the final follow-up, while the time taken to recover from pseudoparalysis was shorter after RSA. The ASCR group showed a 67.8% graft healing rate at the 1-year follow-up, while the RSA group showed 12.1% of scapular notching at the final follow-up. No other postoperative complications were observed in either group.

Conclusion:

ASCR and RSA achieved favorable clinical outcomes in the study cohort. At the short-term follow-up, RSA showed significant improvements in all clinical outcomes, except for IR, while ASCR only showed significant improvements in VAS pain, ASES, and SANE scores. At the final follow-up, however, ASCR had better IR and ASES scores compared with RSA.
Epidemiology of Shoulder Dislocation Treated at Emergency Departments in the United States Between 1997 and 2021
Authors: Becker Brittany , Spadafore Stephen , Oberle Lauren , Spittler Jack , Khodaee Morteza
Published: March 2024

Background:

The exact incidence of shoulder dislocation in the general population of the United States (US) has yet to be well studied.

Purpose:

To establish the current incidence and patterns of shoulder dislocations in the US, especially regarding sports-related activity.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of shoulder dislocations encountered in emergency departments in the US between 1997 and 2021 as recorded in the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). Data were further analyzed according to patient age, sex, and sports participation. Information from the United States Census Bureau was used to determine the overall incidence of dislocations.

Results:

A total of 46,855 shoulder dislocations were identified in the NEISS database, representing a national estimate of 1,915,975 dislocations (mean 25.2 per 100,000 person-years). The mean patient age was 35.3 years. More than half of the dislocations (52.5%) were sports-related, and basketball (16.4%), American football (15.6%), and cycling (9%) were the sports most commonly associated with dislocation. Most dislocations (72.1%) occurred in men. This disparity by sex was more significant for sports-related dislocations (86.1% in men) than nonsports-related dislocations (56.7% in men; P < .001). With sports-related dislocations, people <21 years experienced a significantly higher proportion versus those >39 years (44.6% vs 14.9%; P < .001), while the opposite distribution was seen with nonsports-related dislocations (<21 years: 12% vs >39 years: 51.7%; P < .001). Women outnumbered men with shoulder dislocation among people >61 years.

Conclusion:

Sports-related shoulder dislocations were more common among younger and male individuals than older and female individuals. Contact sports such as basketball and American football were associated with more shoulder dislocations compared with noncontact sports.
Peer Recovery Specialists and Referrals to Treatment: Clinical Correlates Among Patients of an Opioid Overdose Recovery Program in New Jersey
Authors: Lardier David T. , Gilmore-Powell Kristen , Morton Cory M. , Peterson N. Andrew , Borys Suzanne
Published: March 2024

Background:

Peer recovery programs increase recovery support and treatment engagement among individuals with opioid use disorder. Peer recovery specialists (PRS) are critical in the cascade of care of treating addiction and related conditions. Work remains to help identify the benefits of PRS, particularly time spent with a PRS as a clinical indicator associated with referral to substance use treatment services. Gaps in the literature do not consider the nested hierarchical intercorrelations of opioid recovery data within multiple emergency departments.

Purpose:

The current study examined demographic and clinical correlates with referral to substance use treatment services including prior engagement within an opioid overdose recovery program, mental health diagnosis, the number of naloxone administrations, prior overdoses, and hospital-level variability of PRS time associated with treatment referrals.

Method:

This study used data collected by providers among patients who engaged in an opioid overdose recovery program. Data were collected between January 2016 and September 2020. Generalized linear mixed effect multilevel regression analyses tested the associations on clinical referral to substance use services.

Results:

A total of 5655 patients participated in the study (male: 68.91%; age: mean = 37.75 ± 12.43; White non-Hispanic: 62.48%). Significant individual-level associations were identified between demographic and clinical variables and referral to substance use treatment services. At the hospital level, recovery specialist time spent with the patient also showed a positive and significant association with referral to substance use treatment services.

Conclusion:

The cross-level interaction effect displayed that any period of time spent with PRS played an important role for those patients with a greater number of prior overdoses on referral to treatment. Results provide important information on the role of PRS in the cascade of care, as well as the time spent with those in this role for both individuals with varying number of prior overdoses.
Configuration and Kinematics of a 3-DOF Generalized Spherical Parallel Mechanism for Ankle Rehabilitation
Authors: Zhang Jianjun , Yang Shuai , Liu Chenglei , Wang Xiaohui , Guo Shijie
Published: March 2024

The kinematic equivalent model of an existing ankle-rehabilitation robot is inconsistent with the anatomical structure of the human ankle, which influences the rehabilitation effect. Therefore, this study equates the human ankle to the UR model and proposes a novel three degrees of freedom (3-DOF) generalized spherical parallel mechanism for ankle rehabilitation. The parallel mechanism has two spherical centers corresponding to the rotation centers of tibiotalar and subtalar joints. Using screw theory, the mobility of the parallel mechanism, which meets the requirements of the human ankle, is analyzed. The inverse kinematics are presented, and singularities are identified based on the Jacobian matrix. The workspaces of the parallel mechanism are obtained through the search method and compared with the motion range of the human ankle, which shows that the parallel mechanism can meet the motion demand of ankle rehabilitation. Additionally, based on the motion-force transmissibility, the performance atlases are plotted in the parameter optimal design space, and the optimum parameter is obtained according to the demands of practical applications. The results show that the parallel mechanism can meet the motion requirements of ankle rehabilitation and has excellent kinematic performance in its rehabilitation range, which provides a theoretical basis for the prototype design and experimental verification.
Nanovoid formation mechanism in nanotwinned Cu
Authors: Fan Cuncai , Wang Haiyan , Zhang Xinghang
Published: March 2024

Nanotwinned metals have been intensely investigated due to their unique microstructures and superior properties. This work aims to investigate the nanovoid formation mechanism in sputter-deposited nanotwinned Cu. Three different types of epitaxial or polycrystalline Cu films are fabricated by magnetron sputtering deposition technique. In the epitaxial Cu (111) films deposited on Si (110) substrates, high fractions of nanovoids and nanotwins are formed. The void size and density can be tailored by varying deposition parameters, including argon pressure, deposition rate, and film thickness. Interestingly, nanovoids become absent in the polycrystalline Cu film deposited on Si (111) substrate, but they can be regained in the epitaxial nanotwinned Cu (111) when deposited on Si (111) substrate with an Ag seed layer. The nanovoid formation seems to be closely associated with twin nucleation and film texture. Based on the comparative studies between void-free polycrystalline Cu films and epitaxial nanotwinned Cu films with nanovoids, the underlying mechanisms for the formation of nanovoids are discussed within the framework of island coalescence model.

Graphical abstract
Tracing vitamins on the long non-coding lane of the transcriptome: vitamin regulation of LncRNAs
Authors: Yazarlou Fatemeh , Alizadeh Fatemeh , Lipovich Leonard , Giordo Roberta , Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh
Published: March 2024

A major revelation of genome-scale biological studies in the post-genomic era has been that two-thirds of human genes do not encode proteins. The majority of non-coding RNA transcripts in humans are long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) molecules, non-protein-coding regulatory transcripts with sizes greater than 500 nucleotides. LncRNAs are involved in nearly every aspect of cellular physiology, playing fundamental regulatory roles both in normal cells and in disease. As result, they are functionally linked to multiple human diseases, from cancer to autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurological disorders. Numerous human conditions and diseases stem from gene-environment interactions; in this regard, a wealth of reports demonstrate that the intake of specific and essential nutrients, including vitamins, shapes our transcriptome, with corresponding impacts on health. Vitamins command a vast array of biological activities, acting as coenzymes, antioxidants, hormones, and regulating cellular proliferation and coagulation. Emerging evidence suggests that vitamins and lncRNAs are interconnected through several regulatory axes. This type of interaction is expected, since lncRNA has been implicated in sensing the environment in eukaryotes, conceptually similar to riboswitches and other RNAs that act as molecular sensors in prokaryotes. In this review, we summarize the peer-reviewed literature to date that has reported specific functional linkages between vitamins and lncRNAs, with an emphasis on mammalian models and humans, while providing a brief overview of the source, metabolism, and function of the vitamins most frequently investigated within the context of lncRNA molecular mechanisms, and discussing the published research findings that document specific connections between vitamins and lncRNAs.
Predicting lncRNA–protein interactions through deep learning framework employing multiple features and random forest algorithm
Authors: Liang Ying , Yin XingRui , Zhang YangSen , Guo You , Wang YingLong
Published: March 2024

RNA-protein interaction (RPI) is crucial to the life processes of diverse organisms. Various researchers have identified RPI through long-term and high-cost biological experiments. Although numerous machine learning and deep learning-based methods for predicting RPI currently exist, their robustness and generalizability have significant room for improvement. This study proposes LPI-MFF, an RPI prediction model based on multi-source information fusion, to address these issues. The LPI-MFF employed protein–protein interactions features, sequence features, secondary structure features, and physical and chemical properties as the information sources with the corresponding coding scheme, followed by the random forest algorithm for feature screening. Finally, all information was combined and a classification method based on convolutional neural networks is used. The experimental results of fivefold cross-validation demonstrated that the accuracy of LPI-MFF on RPI1807 and NPInter was 97.60% and 97.67%, respectively. In addition, the accuracy rate on the independent test set RPI1168 was 84.9%, and the accuracy rate on the Mus musculus dataset was 90.91%. Accordingly, LPI-MFF demonstrated greater robustness and generalization than other prevalent RPI prediction methods.
Integrated analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome reveals the molecular mechanism regulating cotton boll abscission under low light intensity
Authors: Zhao Ning , Geng Zhao , Zhao Guiyuan , Liu Jianguang , An Zetong , Zhang Hanshuang , Ai Pengfei , Wang Yongqiang
Published: March 2024

Background

Cotton boll shedding is one of the main factors adversely affecting the cotton yield. During the cotton plant growth period, low light conditions can cause cotton bolls to fall off prematurely. In this study, we clarified the regulatory effects of low light intensity on cotton boll abscission by comprehensively analyzing the transcriptome and metabolome.

Results

When the fruiting branch leaves were shaded after pollination, all of the cotton bolls fell off within 5 days. Additionally, H2O2 accumulated during the formation of the abscission zone. Moreover, 10,172 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 81 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified. A KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the identified DEGs and DAMs were associated with plant hormone signal transduction and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways. The results of the transcriptome analysis suggested that the expression of ethylene (ETH) and abscisic acid (ABA) signaling-related genes was induced, which was in contrast to the decrease in the expression of most of the IAA signaling-related genes. A combined transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis revealed that flavonoids may help regulate plant organ abscission. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis detected two gene modules significantly related to abscission. The genes in these modules were mainly related to exosome, flavonoid biosynthesis, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, plant hormone signal transduction, photosynthesis, and cytoskeleton proteins. Furthermore, TIP1;1, UGT71C4, KMD3, TRFL6, REV, and FRA1 were identified as the hub genes in these two modules.

Conclusions

In this study, we elucidated the mechanisms underlying cotton boll abscission induced by shading on the basis of comprehensive transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses of the boll abscission process. The study findings have clarified the molecular basis of cotton boll abscission under low light intensity, and suggested that H2O2, phytohormone, and flavonoid have the potential to affect the shedding process of cotton bolls under low light stress.
Specialised residential care for older people subject to homelessness: experiences of residents and staff of a new aged care home in Australia
Authors: Preti Costanza , Poulos Christopher J , Poulos Roslyn G , Reynolds Najwa L , Rowlands Allison C , Flakelar Kyall , Raguz Angela , Valpiani Peter , Faux Steven G , O’Connor Claire MC
Published: March 2024

Background

The number of older people experiencing homelessness in Australia is rising, yet there is a lack of specialised residential care for older people subject to homelessness with high care and palliative needs. To address this significant gap, a purpose-built care home was recently opened in Sydney, Australia.

Methods

This qualitative study explores the experiences of both residents and staff who were living and working in the home over the first twelve months since its opening. Residents were interviewed at baseline (n = 32) and after six months (n = 22), while staff (n = 13) were interviewed after twelve months. Interviews were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach informed by grounded theory.

Results

Three main themes emerged: (1) Challenges in providing care for older people subject to homelessness with high care needs; (2) Defining a residential care service that supports older people subject to homelessness with high care needs, and (3) Perception of the impact of living and working in a purpose-built care home after six months (residents) and twelve months (staff) since its opening. A key finding was that of the complex interplay between resident dependency and behaviours, referral pathways and stakeholder engagement, government funding models and requirements, staff training and wellbeing, and the need to meet operational viability.

Conclusion

This study provides novel insights into how the lives of older people subject to homelessness with high care needs are affected by living in a specifically designed care home, and on some of the challenges faced and solved by staff working in the care home. A significant gap in the healthcare system remains when it comes to the effective provision of high care for older people subject to homelessness.
Diarrheal disease and associated factors among children aged 6 to 59 months in Oda Bultum District, Eastern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Getachew Zewudalem , Asefa Nega , Gashaw Tigist , Birhanu Abdi , Debella Adera , Balis Bikila , Jibro Usmael , Tolera Sina , Motuma Aboma , Gamachu Mulugeta , Deressa Alemayehu , Mohammed Fethia , Tolera Moti , Eyeberu Addis , Regassa Lemma Demissie , Mussa Ibsa
Published: March 2024

Background

Diarrhea is a serious health problem in children under the age of five that is both preventable and treatable. In low-income countries like Ethiopia, children under the age five years frequently experience diarrhea. However, the burden and associated factors of these diarrheal diseases are understudied in Eastern Ethiopia, Thus, this study aimed to determine the factors associated with the prevalence of diarrheal diseases in Eastern Ethiopia from September 1–30, 2022.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on the total of 602 children aged 6 to 59 months in Oda Bultum district in eastern Ethiopia. A multistage sampling method was used. Three kebeles were selected from nine kebeles by the lottery method. Data was entered into Epi data 4.0.2 and exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. Descriptive analysis was used for frequency, mean, and standard deviations. In addition, bivariable, and multivariable Poisson regression model was used to identify predictors of diarrhea along with a 95% confidence interval. Finally, statistical significance was declared at a p-value of 0.05.

Result

A total of 602 children were included in this study. The prevalence of diarrhea 7.4% (47/602), 95% CI; 5.5–9.7%) among the children. Factors such as being unvaccinated for any vaccine (AOR = 10.82, 95%CI; 4.58–25.48) and born from a mother who had medium level of empowerment (AOR = 0.34, 95%CI; 0.11–0.88) in the household had statistically significant association with diarrhea among the children compared to their counterparts.

Conclusion

The study found that nearly one out of thirteen children aged 6 to 59 months had any form of diarrheal diseases in Oda Bultum District, Eastern Ethiopia. In addition, the study revealed that children who were vaccinated for their age developed diarrhea less likely compared to those who did not receive any form of vaccine for their age. Moreover, children with mothers who had a medium level of empowerment were less likely to get diarrhea than children with mothers who had a low level of empowerment.
Pre-operative vs. post-operative stereotactic radiosurgery for operative metastatic brain tumors: study protocol for a phase III clinical trial
Authors: Routman David M. , Jusue-Torres Ignacio , Brown Paul D. , Trifiletti Daniel M. , Vora Sujay A. , Brown Desmond A. , Parney Ian F. , Burns Terry C. , Yan Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

Almost one third of cancer patients in the United States will develop brain metastases on an annual basis. Surgical resection is indicated in the setting of brain metastases for reasons, such as maximizing local control in select patients, decompression of mass effect, and/or tissue diagnosis. The current standard of care following resection of a brain metastasis has shifted from whole brain radiation therapy to post-operative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). However, there is a significant rate of local recurrence within one year of postoperative SRS. Emerging retrospective and prospective data suggest pre-operative SRS is a safe and potentially effective treatment paradigm for surgical brain metastases. This trial intends to determine, for patients with an indication for resection of a brain metastasis, whether there is an increase in the time to a composite endpoint of adverse outcomes; including the first occurrence of either: local recurrence, leptomeningeal disease, or symptomatic radiation brain necrosis - in patients who receive pre-operative SRS as compared to patients who receive post-operative SRS.

Methods

This randomized phase III clinical trial compares pre-operative with post-operative SRS for brain metastases. A dynamic random allocation procedure will allocate an equal number of patients to each arm: pre-operative SRS followed by surgery or surgery followed by post-operative SRS.

Expected outcomes

If pre-operative SRS improves outcomes relative to post-operative SRS, this will establish pre-operative SRS as superior. If post-operative SRS proves superior to pre-operative SRS, it will remain a standard of care and halt the increasing utilization of pre-operative SRS. If there is no difference in pre- versus post-operative SRS, then pre-operative SRS may still be preferred, given patient convenience and the potential for a condensed timeline.

Discussion

Emerging retrospective and prospective data have demonstrated some benefits of pre-op SRS vs. post-op SRS. This study will show whether there is an increase in the time to the composite endpoint. Additionally, the study will compare overall survival; patient-reported outcomes; morbidity; completion of planned therapies; time to systemic therapy; time to regional progression; time to CNS progression; time to subsequent treatment; rate of radiation necrosis; rate of local recurrence; and rate of leptomeningeal disease.

Trial registration number

NCT03750227 (Registration date: 21/11/2018).
Survival time prediction in patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer based on 18F-FDG PET/CT- derived inter-tumor heterogeneity metrics
Authors: He Dianning , Zhang Xin , Chang Zhihui , Liu Zhaoyu , Li Beibei
Published: March 2024

Background

The presence of heterogeneity is a significant attribute within the context of ovarian cancer. This study aimed to assess the predictive accuracy of models utilizing quantitative18F-FDG PET/CT derived inter-tumor heterogeneity metrics in determining progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Additionally, the study investigated the potential correlation between model risk scores and the expression levels of p53 and Ki-67.

Methods

A total of 292 patients diagnosed with HGSOC were retrospectively enrolled at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University (median age: 54 ± 9.4 years). Quantitative inter-tumor heterogeneity metrics were calculated based on conventional measurements and texture features of primary and metastatic lesions in18F-FDG PET/CT. Conventional models, heterogeneity models, and integrated models were then constructed to predict PFS and OS. Spearman’s correlation coefficient (ρ) was used to evaluate the correlation between immunohistochemical scores of p53 and Ki-67 and model risk scores.

Results

The C-indices of the integrated models were the highest for both PFS and OS models. The C-indices of the training set and testing set of the integrated PFS model were 0.898 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.881–0.914) and 0.891 (95% CI: 0.860–0.921), respectively. For the integrated OS model, the C-indices of the training set and testing set were 0.894 (95% CI: 0.871–0.917) and 0.905 (95% CI: 0.873–0.936), respectively. The integrated PFS model showed the strongest correlation with the expression levels of p53 (ρ = 0.859,p < 0.001) and Ki-67 (ρ = 0.829,p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The models based on18F-FDG PET/CT quantitative inter-tumor heterogeneity metrics exhibited good performance for predicting the PFS and OS of patients with HGSOC. p53 and Ki-67 expression levels were strongly correlated with the risk scores of the integrated predictive models.
Mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviour among Egyptian undergraduates: a cross-sectional national study
Authors: Baklola Mohamed , Terra Mohamed , Taha Anhar , Elnemr Mohammed , Yaseen Mohammad , Maher Ahmed , Buzaid Ali Hussain , Alenazi Rahaf , Osman Mohamed Safa Adil , Abdelhady Doaa , El-Gilany Abdel-Hady
Published: March 2024

Background

Mental health literacy (MHL) and help-seeking behaviors are pivotal in managing mental well-being, especially among Egyptian undergraduates. Despite the importance and prevalent psychological distress in this group, limited research has addressed MHL and associated behaviors in Egypt. This study aimed to assess the levels of MHL and help-seeking behavior among Egyptian university students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted across ten Egyptian universities during the academic year 2022–2023. A convenience sample of 1740 students was obtained through online questionnaires distributed via social media platforms. The survey comprised demographic characteristics, the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS), and the General Help Seeking Behavior Questionnaire (GHSPQ).

Results

Among 1740 Egyptian undergraduates, medical students scored higher in recognizing disorders (p < 0.05), while non-medical students excelled in attitudes (p < 0.05). A strong correlation was observed between attitudes toward mental illness and total mental health literacy (coefficients of 0.664 and 0.657). Univariate analysis indicated a significant association with professional help-seeking (OR = 1.023). Females, individuals aged 21 or above, and non-medical students were more likely to seek mental health information (OR = 1.42, 1.82, 1.55 respectively). Help-seeking behavior for emotional problems was more inclined towards intimate partners, whereas suicidal thoughts prompted seeking professional help.

Conclusion

The findings advocate for comprehensive mental health education, particularly in rural areas, and emphasis on the role of personal relationships in mental well-being. Implementing these insights could foster improved mental health outcomes and reduce related stigma in Egypt.
Long-term pulmonary outcomes of young adults born prematurely: a Polish prospective cohort study PREMATURITAS 20
Authors: Walicka-Serzysko Katarzyna , Postek Magdalena , Borawska-Kowalczyk Urszula , Szamotulska Katarzyna , Kwaśniewicz Piotr , Polak Krystyna , Mierzejewska Ewa , Sands Dorota , Rutkowska Magdalena
Published: March 2024

Background

The long-term consequences of prematurity are often not sufficiently recognized. To address this gap, a prospective cohort study, which is a continuation of the multicenter Polish study PREMATURITAS, was conducted, utilizing unique clinical data from 20 years ago.

Objective

The main goal was to evaluate lung function, detect any structural abnormalities using lung ultrasound, and assess psychological well-being in young adults born between 24 and 34 weeks of gestational age (GA). Additionally, the study aimed to investigate potential associations between perinatal risk factors and abnormalities observed in pulmonary function tests (PFTs) during adulthood.

Methods

The young survivors underwent a comprehensive set of PFTs, a lung ultrasound, along with the quality of life assessment. Information regarding the neonatal period and respiratory complications was obtained from the baseline data collected in the PREMATURITAS study.

Results

A total of 52 young adults, with a mean age of 21.6 years, underwent PFTs. They were divided into two groups based on GA: 24–28 weeks (n = 12) and 29–34 weeks (n = 40). The subgroup born more prematurely had significantly higher lung clearance index (LCI), compared to the other subgroup (p = 0.013). LCI ≥ 6.99 was more frequently observed in the more premature group (50% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.005), those who did not receive prenatal steroids (p = 0.020), with a diagnosis of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (p = 0.034), those who received surfactant (p = 0.026), and mechanically ventilated ≥ 7 days (p = 0.005). Additionally, elevated LCI was associated with the diagnosis of asthma (p = 0.010).

Conclusions

The findings suggest pulmonary effects due to prematurity persist into adulthood and their insult on small airway function. Regular follow-up evaluations of young survivors born preterm should include assessments of PFTs. Specifically, the use of LCI can provide valuable insights into long-term pulmonary impairment.
Palliative primary tumor resection may not offer survival benefits for patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasms, one multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yu Guozhi , Liu Shen , Wang Zhijie , Liu Qian , Ren Hongchang , Hu Wenhui
Published: March 2024

Background

The efficacy of palliative primary tumor resection (PTR) in improving prognosis for patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) has not been fully explored.

Methods

We performed one retrospective cohort study and recruited 68 patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal NENs from two Chinese medical centers between 2000 and 2022. All patients were assigned to PTR group and no PTR group. The clinicopathological manifestation data were carefully collected, and the survival outcomes were compared between the two groups using Kaplan–Meier methods. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to minimize confounding bias. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors.

Results

A total of 32 patients received PTR, and the other 36 patients did not. The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) times were 4 and 22 months in the whole cohort, respectively. For patients who received no PTR, the median OS was 16 months, and the 1-year OS rate and 3-year OS rate were 56.4% and 39.6%, respectively. For patients who received PTR, the median OS was 24 months, and the 1-year OS rate and 3-year OS rate were 67.9% and 34.1%, respectively. However, the Kaplan–Meier survival curves and log-rank test demonstrated no significant survival difference between the two groups (P = 0.963). Moreover, palliative PTR was also not confirmed as a prognostic factor in subsequent univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses in both the original and matched cohorts. Only histological differentiation was identified as an independent prognostic factor affecting PFS [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.86, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02–3.41, P = 0.043] and OS [HR = 3.70, 95% CI: 1.09–12.48, P = 0.035] in the original cohort.

Conclusions

Palliative PTR may not offer survival benefits for patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal NENs.
Transcriptome analysis reveals multiple targets of erythritol-related transcription factor EUF1 in unconventional yeast Yarrowia Lipolytica
Authors: Rzechonek DA. , Szczepańczyk M. , Borodina I. , Neuvéglise C. , Mirończuk AM.
Published: March 2024

Background

Erythritol is a four-carbon polyol with an unclear role in metabolism of some unconventional yeasts. Its production has been linked to the osmotic stress response, but the mechanism of stress protection remains unclear. Additionally, erythritol can be used as a carbon source. In the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica, its assimilation is activated by the transcription factor Euf1. The study investigates whether this factor can link erythritol to other processes in the cell.

Results

The research was performed on two closely related strains of Y. lipolytica: MK1 and K1, where strain K1 has no functional Euf1. Cultures were carried out in erythritol-containing and erythritol-free media. Transcriptome analysis revealed the effect of Euf1 on the regulation of more than 150 genes. Some of these could be easily connected with different aspects of erythritol assimilation, such as: utilization pathway, a new potential isoform of transketolase, or polyol transporters. However, many of the upregulated genes have never been linked to metabolism of erythritol. The most prominent examples are the degradation pathway of branched-chain amino acids and the glyoxylate cycle. The high transcription of genes affected by Euf1 is still dependent on the erythritol concentration in the medium. Moreover, almost all up-regulated genes have an ATGCA motif in the promoter sequence.

Conclusions

These findings may be particularly relevant given the increasing use of erythritol-induced promoters in genetic engineering of Y. lipolytica. Moreover, use of this yeast in biotechnological processes often takes place under osmotic stress conditions. Erythritol might be produce as a by-product, thus better understanding of its influence on cell metabolism could facilitate processes optimization.
Healthcare equity in focus: bridging gaps through a spatial analysis of healthcare facilities in Irbid, Jordan
Authors: Obeidat Bushra , Alourd Sally
Published: March 2024

In the Irbid Governorate, Jordan, equitable healthcare facility distribution is vital to ensuring healthcare accessibility and improving public health outcomes. This study investigated the spatial distribution, accessibility, and conformity of healthcare facilities to the Ministry of Health standards to identify areas requiring improvement. Using geographic information systems (GIS), three spatial analyses were conducted: nearest neighbor analysis, buffer analysis, and service area analysis. These analyses comprehensively assessed the healthcare landscape, revealing a random spatial distribution pattern of healthcare facilities; and indicating an absence of structured organization. The buffer analysis revealed concentrations in specific regions, while others were underserved. The Service Area Analysis revealed significant healthcare access challenges, especially in remote areas. The healthcare resource distribution of the Irbid governorate fell short of national and international standards, emphasizing the need for improvements. To address these disparities, policymakers and healthcare authorities should focus on equitably redistributing resources, tailoring allocation to local needs, improving remote area infrastructure, and refining government policies. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are imperative to ensure alignment with international standards and achieve healthcare equity. The insights from this case study provide valuable guidance for regions facing similar healthcare distribution challenges.
The effectiveness of therapeutic craft-making activities in treating lower-third forearm fracture: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Teoh Rui Fen , Chai Siaw Chui , Razaob Razab Nor Afifi , Amin Mohd Iskandar Mohd , Howell Julianne W.
Published: March 2024

Background

Occupational Therapists use craft-making activities as therapeutic interventions to improve physical and psychological functioning of injured people. Despite the therapeutic effects, craft-making is not routinely used in hand rehabilitation as an intervention for patients with upper limb fractures. These patients often experience physical and psychosocial issues; however, without supportive evidence, therapists hesitate to integrate craft-making into upper limb rehabilitation.

Purpose

This study aims to determine the effect of a conventional therapy combined with therapeutic craft-making on disability, post-traumatic stress, and physical performance in patients with lower-third forearm fractures.

Methods

Priori analysis determined that 38 patients will be needed for this superiority randomized controlled trial to be conducted in a hand and upper limb rehabilitation center. Eligible participants must comprehend English, be diagnosed with lower-third forearm fracture(s) stabilized by open reduction internal fixation, and referred to therapy within 2–4 weeks of surgery. Following the CONSORT guidelines, participants will be randomly assigned to a Control (conventional therapy) group or an Intervention (conventional therapy and craft) group. Twice weekly for 6 weeks, Therapist A will provide both groups with 1-h of conventional therapy while the Intervention group will also receive 15 min of craft-making supervised by the Researcher. The primary outcome of disability will be measured with the Quick-Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand. The secondary outcome measurements include the Patient-Rated-Wrist-Evaluation; Impact of Event Scale-revised and physical performance, i.e., the Purdue Pegboard Test, AROM, and grip strength. All outcome measures will be obtained by Therapist B prior to the 1st therapy visit and after the 12th visit. Descriptive analysis will be done for the categorical and continuous data and a mixed model ANOVA for analysis of the initial and final assessment scores within and between groups.

Results

This study is ongoing.

Discussion

The intent of this study is to determine if therapeutic crafts have value as an intervention when used in combination with conventional therapy for patients with lower-third forearm fractures. If the value of crafts is supported, this evidence may reduce hesitancy of therapists to implement craft-making with patients referred to hand therapy after upper limb fracture.

Conclusion

This study is ongoing.

Trial registration

ANZCTR, ACTRN12622000150741. Retrospectively registered on 28 January 2022 https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=382676&isReview=true..
Amyloid β oligomer induces cerebral vasculopathy via pericyte-mediated endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Chen Siqi , Guo Daji , Zhu Yuanyuan , Xiao Songhua , Xie Jiatian , Zhang Zhan , Hu Yu , Huang Jialin , Ma Xueying , Ning Zhiyuan , Cao Lin , Cheng Jinping , Tang Yamei
Published: March 2024

Background

Although abnormal accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) protein is thought to be the main cause of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), emerging evidence suggests a pivotal vascular contribution to AD. Aberrant amyloid β induces neurovascular dysfunction, leading to changes in the morphology and function of the microvasculature. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms between Aβ deposition and vascular injuries. Recent studies have revealed that pericytes play a substantial role in the vasculopathy of AD. Additional research is imperative to attain a more comprehensive understanding.

Methods

Two-photon microscopy and laser speckle imaging were used to examine cerebrovascular dysfunction. Aβ oligomer stereotactic injection model was established to explain the relationship between Aβ and vasculopathy. Immunofluorescence staining, western blot, and real-time PCR were applied to detect the morphological and molecular alternations of pericytes. Primary cultured pericytes and bEnd.3 cells were employed to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Vasculopathy including BBB damage, hypoperfusion, and low vessel density were found in the cortex of 8 to 10-month-old 5xFAD mice. A similar phenomenon accompanied by pericyte degeneration appeared in an Aβ-injected model, suggesting a direct relationship between Aβ and vascular dysfunction. Pericytes showed impaired features including low PDGFRβ expression and increased pro-inflammatory chemokines secretion under the administration of Aβ in vitro, of which supernatant cultured with bEND.3 cells led to significant endothelial dysfunction characterized by TJ protein deficiency.

Conclusions

Our results provide new insights into the pathogenic mechanism underlying Aβ-induced vasculopathy. Targeting pericyte therapies are promising to ameliorate vascular dysfunction in AD.