bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatigue crack initiation life prediction using different plasticity models in cold expanded AL-alloy plates utilized in double shear lap joints
Authors: Mohammed Raad Arif , Chakherlou T.N. , Khoshravan Azar Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2023

Cold expansion of fastener holes is a recognized technique for enhancing the fatigue life of holed plates utilized in detachable joints. This method involves introducing compressive residual stress around the holes, which has proven to be effective in improving the structural integrity and longevity of such components. In this research, the role of using different plasticity models in finite-element simulations of cold expansion (CE) in determining residual stress distribution and predicting the fatigue life of lap joints was investigated. Finite-element simulations were conducted to analyze the distribution of residual stress in cold-expanded Al-alloy 2024-T3 plates utilized in double-shear lap joints. Three time-independent plasticity models, specifically multilinear kinematic hardening, multilinear isotropic hardening (M.L.I.H) based on monotonic tensile tests, and nonlinear combined hardening models derived from saturated hysteresis stress and strain loops, were employed in the simulations. These models allowed for an accurate determination of the residual stress distribution in the plates. In finite-element simulations, two CE sizes of 1.5% and 4.7% were employed to create residual stresses. In the simulations, after creating residual stress by CE, remote sinusoidal loads are applied to the joints corresponding to the previously conducted fatigue tests in order to obtain stress and mechanical strain distributions. In order to predict the fatigue life, four different multiaxial fatigue criteria (Smith–Watson–Topper, Glinka, Kandil–Brown–Miller, and Fatemi–Socie) were employed, using the stress and strain distributions obtained from the finite element simulations with the different plasticity models. The simulations yielded varying stress and strain distribution results for the multilinear kinematic and M.L.I.H models, while the results of the nonlinear combined hardening model fell between the other two models. Notably, the fatigue life prediction based on the nonlinear combined hardening plasticity model closely matched the experimentally observed fatigue lives, with an absolute percentage deviation of 24.8%.
When social media backfires – intrusive ties in entrepreneurship
Authors: Jonsson Josefina
Published: August 2023

This study critically explores the potential negative impacts of social media for entrepreneurship, and acknowledges online interactions as a part of the social dynamics surrounding entrepreneurship. The study departs from theories on entrepreneurship as a context-dependent social process and uses Granovetter’s concept of ties as a theoretical lens. To develop an understanding of the social aspects of entrepreneurship, this study employs qualitative methods of inquiry and combines a netnographic approach with ethnography. This study illustrates the need to include interactions on social media platforms as a part of the social context for entrepreneurs, and introduces the concept of intrusive ties for explaining how individuals online can, forcibly, make themselves part of the entrepreneurial process.
Smartphone Diary Application in Household Surveys: Integration of High Frequency Temporal Data in Large-scale Data Collection
Authors: Premkumar Prasanna S. , Ganesan Santhosh Kumar , Pandiyan Balaji , Krishnamoorthy Dhivya Kumari , Kang Gagandeep
Published: August 2023

Household expenditure data is at the core of efforts to measure living standards, inequality and financial protection against illness. Currently it is mainly derived from recall-based surveys that are time consuming and prone to measurement errors. Diaries are often used as an alternative approach, however this results in fatigue and low compliance. Smartphone- based diaries could overcome many of these challenges, but it is yet unknown how this approach could be used and its relationship with data from the household surveys. This study evaluated a smartphone-based diary application for collecting daily household expenditures and compared data with that of household surveys. Results show that smartphone-based diary applications could be used to optimize or complement the information from conventional survey-based indicators.
A systematic review of ethical leadership studies in educational research from 1990 to 2022
Authors: Ahmed Eman I
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of the scholarly publications on ethical leadership in educational research, drawing on a database of 151 articles published between 1990 and 2022. Descriptive statistics and content analysis methods were used to identify trends in the ethical leadership literature in terms of volume and growth trajectory of ethical leadership research, geographic and journal distribution, types of articles, authorship trends, citation impact, research methods, key themes and findings associated with empirical ethical leadership research in education. The results revealed that 28% of the articles were conceptual, while the rest was empirical 72%. Within the subset of empirical articles, 61% of the studies adopted qualitative methods, followed by quantitative studies (31%), and mixed methods articles (8%). The analysis found that the ethical leadership research adapting qualitative methodology focused on four major themes: the practices of school ethical leadership; the dilemmas/challenges of ethical leadership; the leadership development of ethical educational leaders; and overlapping issues. The analysis also identified the antecedents, mediators, moderators, and outcomes associated with quantitative ethical leadership research in educational research. Recommendations were provided to strengthen future ethical leadership research.
Leadership in early childhood education: Cross-cultural case studies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fonsén Elina , Marchant Shaireen , Ruohola Vivianne
Published: August 2023

Using a cross-cultural comparative study approach, this study analyses and compares the leadership discourses revealed through interviews with early childhood education (ECE) leaders in Finland and Singapore. The interviews were conducted both before the COVID-19 outbreaks in 2018 and during the pandemic in 2021. Conducted as focus group discussions, the data were analysed using discursive analysis. Finnish ECE leaders’ identified discourses that revealed ‘pedagogically focused leadership’ and the ‘desire for distributed pedagogical leadership’. In Singapore, the interviews highlighted discourses related to ‘community spirit emerging from challenges’ and the ‘deepening of management demands’. An overall analysis of the discourses showed that COVID-19 resulted in changes in leadership discourses revealing that leadership was characterised with ‘leading from a distance’ and an ‘emphasis on instructions and regulations’. Despite the challenges, leaders continue to place an importance on pedagogy in their practice. The study also showed that although cultural differences in leadership discourses were identified, time as a factor, remains significant as a crucial aspect for leadership in both countries.
COVID-19 pandemic among adults with intellectual disabilities: Implementing a social model of disability in crisis and trauma situations
Authors: Gouzman Julia , Soskolne Varda , Dekel Rachel
Published: August 2023

A growing body of evidence has attested to the higher impact of COVID-19 on individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) than on members of the general population during the pandemic, mainly showing their higher vulnerability. However, we believe it is important to better understand how their situation interacts with the specific circumstances of the pandemic. In this article we discuss recent findings regarding individuals with IDs through the lens of two theories – the social disability model and the ecological model of trauma and recovery – and propose an integration, namely a social model of disability in crisis and trauma situations. Such a model allows for a wider perspective on understanding the way people living with disabilities (PLWDs) cope in these situations, integrating the individual aspects of coping with the social and environmental ones.
Do contextual factors influence running and accelerometry GPS based variables in professional women soccer players? A case study about the effect of match location and result
Authors: Oliveira Rafael , Ceylan Halil İbrahim , Fernandes Renato , Morgans Ryland , Nobari Hadi , Nalha Matilde , Brito João Paulo
Published: August 2023

The aims of this study were to compare external match load between home and away matches as well as the result of the match (win, draw, and loss). The secondary aim was to quantify external training load that preceded the next match taking into account both match location and result. Ten elite women soccer players participated in the study (age 24.6 ± 2.3 years). Seven home and seven away matches in which four wins, three draws, and seven losses occurred. The following global positioning system (GPS) metrics were analyzed: duration, total distance, high-speed running distance (HSR, ≥15 km h−1), number of accelerations (ACC) and decelerations (DEC), average speed, and player load. There were no significant differences between match results and match locations. Regarding comparisons of training data preceding different match results, only duration and player load did not differ while HSR, number of ACC and DEC showed to be higher when the next match was a loss ( p < 0.05, moderate to very large effect). Regarding comparisons of training data preceding different match locations, only duration, total distance, and player load did not differ while HSR, average speed, number of ACC and DEC in all zones were higher when the next match was at home ( p < 0.05, moderate to very large effect). In conclusion, this study showed that match result and location did not have a significant effect on GPS metrics exhibited during match-day. However, training data influenced the contextual factors of the next match which should be considered when planning training sessions.
Poor miners and empty e-wallets: Latin American experiences with cryptocurrencies in crisis
Authors: Rosales Antulio , van Roekel Eva , Howson Peter , Kanters Coco
Published: August 2023

This article examines how cryptocurrencies are increasingly entangled with crises in Latin American political discourse and everyday economic life. In an effort of interdisciplinary integration, combining human geography with political economy and cultural anthropology, we critically assess the linkages between cryptocurrency, economic crisis and forms of political and economic precarity and exploitation. Drawing on experiences in Latin America, mostly on the cases of El Salvador and Venezuela, we explore how cryptocurrencies have rapidly emerged and expanded during periods of economic and political crises. We ground this discussion on social theories of money and critical analysis of blockchain and cryptocurrencies that question the apolitical assumptions of these apparent “trustless” infrastructures. The article contends that cryptocurrencies have the capacity to create potential niches for makeshift economic survival, speculation and quick profit, while at the same time reproducing historical conditions of vulnerability, inequality and ‘crypto-colonialism’. Though cryptocurrencies are surrounded by stories of freedom and decentralised community control, our ethnographic data on El Salvador and Venezuela suggest they often rely on free market fundamentalism and conditions of political corruption by authoritarian state-backed elites.
Where's the bathroom in this “mobile home”? Adding Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WaSH) infrastructure to agendas on homelessness and digital media
Authors: Polson Erika , Botta Renée A. , Van Houweling Emily
Published: August 2023

Although access to water and sanitation have been recognized by the United Nations as human rights since 2010, that access continues to be a site of struggle in everyday life, especially among homeless populations. In this paper, we draw from two summers of a fieldwork-based course on homelessness and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Denver, Colorado to consider whether a Google Map of public restrooms in the city might be useful for unhoused people. The paper's conceptual framework stems from Hartmann's idea of “homing”—which refers to how digital media can help unhoused people create everyday routines, exercise some control over their lives and spaces, and gradually create a safe environment—to consider whether the Google Water, Sanitation & Hygiene Map might help unhoused people integrate bathroom access into routines, rounding out the so-called “mobile home” to provide relief and personal agency. The effort runs up against digital literacy issues that mitigate “access” and point to the limits of techno-solutions. This paper points to the need to consider both media literacies and inclusive design in creating digital solutions to address issues faced by unhoused people. We also argue that planners should think holistically about how digital and telecom-focused “solutions” relate to other necessary infrastructures—in this case, public toilets and water access.
Sightseers’ Responsible Behavior Toward the Environment at Rural Destinations: The Moderating Role of Levels of Education
Authors: Lasfeto Deddy Barnabas , Lada Yohan A. A. , Beitzel Brian D. , Santosa Eka Budhi
Published: August 2023

This study discusses the impact of the external factors in tourism locations on the environmental conduct of students as sightseers; takes the rural destinations in Indonesia as the case-study place based on 325 questionnaire survey samples of tourists; and adopts the method of structural equation model-multiple group analysis to explore the moderating role of levels of education on the relationship between students’ intention to behave environmental responsibility and their responsible behavior toward the environment. Students’ factors include PBC (Perceived Behavioral Control), AE (attitude to behave toward the environment), SN (subjective norms), and IR (intention to behave with environmental responsibility). Results indicate that among students’ factors, PBC and SN have no significant effect on students’ IR; PBC affects students’ RBE positively, and students’ IR affects their RBE positively. Through analysis of survey data collected from rural sightseers on an island in Indonesia, we conclude that it is important to encourage favorable community formation and good behavioral norms by external factors to support responsible environmental behavior in sightseeing places.
Newly Diagnosed SLE With APLS and Right Atrial Thrombus
Authors: Ivyanskiy Ilya , Abdelbaki Shady , Qayyom Muhammad Mohsin , Horn Robin , Davey-Ranasinghe Nicole
Published: August 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder manifesting in myriad of forms and could affect almost any body system or organ. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS) is a relatively common scenario in SLE. Both arterial and venous thrombosis is a hallmark feature of APLS. Among others, intracardiac thrombus is a rare and potentially life-threatening presentation. It could occur in any heart chamber whereas the right atrium is the least common location. The treatment is based on anticoagulation preferably with warfarin along with treatment of SLE. We describe a young patient with newly diagnosed SLE with APLS complicated by right atrial thrombus formation. We are, therefore, adding to the scant literature on right atrial thrombi in SLE and increasing awareness of readers of this serious and potentially deadly condition if left unrecognized.
Comparison of Arthroscopic Single-row and Double-row Repair for Rotator Cuff Injuries With Different Tear Sizes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Gu Zhangyang , Wu Shengguang , Yang Yu , Ren Tao , Zhang Kai-Wei
Published: August 2023

Background:

There is no clinical gold standard for the indications for single-row (SR) versus double-row (DR) repair according to small, large, or massive rotator cuff tear size.

Purpose:

To conduct a meta-analysis to compare the clinical outcomes and retear rates after arthroscopic SR and DR repair for rotator cuff injuries with different tear sizes.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

On the basis of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria, the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library databases, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and China BioMedical Literature database were searched for relevant studies published before November 1, 2021, using the following search terms: “Rotator Cuff Injuries,” “Rotator Cuff Tears,” “Arthroscopy,” “Arthroscopic Surgery,” “single-row,” and “double-row”; a total of 489 articles were retrieved. Quality evaluation was conducted for all the studies that met the inclusion criteria. This study evaluated the Constant-Murley score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score, and range of motion (ROM) as well as retear rate. A fixed-effects or random-effects model was adopted to calculate the results and assess risk.

Results:

A total of 10 clinical studies were included, with 404 cases of DR and 387 cases of SR. Regarding overall results, DR had better forward elevation ROM (mean difference [MD] = -4.03° [95% CI, -6.00° to -2.06°]; P < .0001; I 2 = 46%) and a lower retear rate (MD = 2.39 [95% CI, 1.40 to 4.08]; P = .001; I 2 = 0%) compared with SR repair. With regard to small tears (<3 cm), there was no noticeable difference on any of the 3 outcome scores between SR and DR. For large rotator cuff tears (≥3 cm), DR repair showed significantly better ASES scores (MD = -3.09 [95% CI, -6.19 to 0.02]; P = .05; I 2 = 73%) and UCLA scores (MD = -1.47 [95% CI, -2.21 to -0.72]; P = .0001; I 2 = 31%) compared with SR repair.

Conclusion:

Our meta-analysis revealed that DR had better UCLA scores, ASES scores, and ROM in forward elevation and lower retear rates. In rotator cuff tears <3 cm, there were no statistical differences in clinical outcome between SR and DR.
It Happened Again: Differences Between Single and Repeat/Poly-Victimization Among Financial Fraud Victims
Authors: Snyder Jamie A. , Golladay Katelyn A.
Published: August 2023

An increasing number of studies have focused on fraud victimization. However, fewer studies have specifically focused on financial fraud, a unique form of fraud that relies on victim participation. Using the Supplemental Fraud Survey (SFS), the prevalence and differences between single and repeat/poly-victims of financial fraud were examined utilizing state dependence and risk heterogeneity variables to identify potential differences. Overall, some support for state dependence was found, while less support was found for risk heterogeneity. Reporting the victimization to a family member and having a higher income reduced the risk of becoming a repeat/poly-victim, while identifying as a victim and having a higher total monetary loss were associated with increased risk. Implications for policy, theory, and prevention are discussed.
Are ready biodegradation tests effective screens for non-persistence in all environmental compartments?
Authors: Martin-Aparicio Alberto , Camenzuli Louise , Hughes Christopher , Pemberton Emma , Saunders David , Wang Neil , Lyon Delina Y.
Published: August 2023

Background

Persistence assessment is a cornerstone of chemical hazard and risk assessment in numerous regulatory frameworks, as the longevity of a substance in the environment relates to exposure and ultimately the risk it poses. A chemical that is readily biodegradable is commonly assumed to undergo rapid and ultimate biodegradation under most environmental conditions. Ready biodegradability tests (RBT), such as the OECD 301 test series, are used to quickly screen out non-Persistent substances and focus regulatory scrutiny on the most hazardous substances. The stringency of the RBT as a screen for all environmental compartments is paramount to ensure that there are no readily biodegradable yet Persistent substances. To assess this stringency in practice, we here describe a systematic comparison of substances with both RBT data and biodegradation simulation test data for soil, sediment, or water compartments to see whether there are any substances which are readily biodegradable yet meet EU REACH regulatory Persistence criteria in any specific environmental compartment.

Results

A rough assembly of data extracted from the ECHA database showed that, out of 263 substances with both RBT and simulation test data, there were 19 substances that were readily biodegradable but Persistent (based on the most conservative result and after a temperature adjustment to the half-life). However, many of the underpinning simulation study information were either not high-quality guideline studies or the substances were UVCBs. To more accurately compare the RBT and simulation testing outcomes, quality criteria on the RBT and simulation tests were applied, which limited the data set to about one-third.

Conclusions

When examining quality-screened, temperature-adjusted simulation testing half-lives for readily biodegradable substances, there were no readily biodegradable substances that were Persistent. A side-by-side comparison of the available data supports the stringency and effectiveness of RBTs to identify non-Persistent chemicals.
Transcriptome analysis of multiple tissues reveals the potential mechanism of death under acute heat stress in chicken
Authors: Nan Jiuhong , Yang Hongrui , Rong Li , Jia Zijia , Yang Sendong , Li Shijun
Published: August 2023

Background

Acute heat stress could induce high mortality and cause huge economic losses in the poultry industry. Although many studies have revealed heat stress-induced injuries of multiple tissues, the main target tissue and molecular mechanism of death under acute heat stress was largely unknown. This study systematically compared the transcriptome data of five main visceral tissues in chickens to reveal the response of multiple tissues to acute heat stress and determine the main target tissue of acute heat stress, further revealing the injuries of main target tissue and their potential mechanism by combing pathological section and qRT-PCR technologies.

Results

The transcriptome data of five visceral tissues revealed that acute heat stress broadly caused inflammatory response and damaged tissues metabolic homeostasis. Among the five tested visceral tissues, the number of differentially expressed genes in the lung was the highest, and their fold changes were the greatest, indicating that the lung was the main target tissue of acute heat stress. The results of pathological section revealed severe inflammation, emphysema and pulmonary hemorrhage in the lung under acute heat stress. Our study found that some pro-inflammatory genes, including CNTFR, FURIN, CCR6, LIFR and IL20RA, were significantly up-regulated both in the heat-stress and heat-death groups, and their fold changes in the heat-death group were significantly greater than that in the heat-stress group. We also found an anti-inflammatory gene, AvBD9, exhibiting an extremely high expression in the heat-stress group but a low expression in the heat-death group.

Conclusions

Our study found that acute heat stress caused multiple tissue injuries broadly and the lung was the main target tissue of acute heat stress in chicken. Acute heat stress caused a severe inflammatory response, emphysema, and pulmonary haemorrhage, The severe inflammatory response in the heat-death group was related to the up-regulation of pro-inflammatory genes and down-regulation of anti-inflammatory genes.
Detection and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania braziliensis promastigotes
Authors: Costa Brenda Furtado , de Queiroz Filho Tarcísio Navegante , da Cruz Carneiro Adeniele Lopes , Falcão Aline Semblano Carreira , da Silva Kataoka Maria Sueli , Pinheiro João de Jesus Viana , Rodrigues Ana Paula Drummond
Published: August 2023

Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are remarkable zinc-dependent endopeptidases, critical for degrading components of the extracellular matrix, thus actively influencing cell migration. Their impact on intracellular parasites, such as the enigmatic protozoan Leishmania, elicits intriguing queries. This study explores into the untapped territory of MMP-2 and MMP-9 within Leishmania spp. promastigotes. Notably, we successfully detected and quantified these MMPs, while also evaluating their activity in two distinct Leishmania species—L. amazonensis (La) and L. braziliensis (Lb)—at various growth stages and isolated from distinct clinical tegumentar disease forms. The results unveiled the presence of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in both species, albeit with distinct localization patterns. Specifically, MMP-9 exhibited significantly higher gelatinolytic activity in La when compared to Lb. Moreover, our data cleverly illustrated the presence and release of MMP-2 and MMP-9 by La and Lb promastigotes, exposing their ability to invade and migrate within a collagen matrix. This pioneering study establishes a compelling correlation between MMP-2 and MMP-9 and their potential role in the dynamics of La and Lb infection. Suggesting their potential as prognostic markers for severe leishmaniasis and promising target molecules for therapeutic interventions, this research opens new avenues for combatting this debilitating parasitic disease.
Novel nomogram to predict the overall survival of postoperative patients with gastric signet
Authors: Liu Donghui , Ding Ran , Wang Liru , Shi Enhong , Li Xiaoxue , Zhang Chenyao , Zhang Yan , Wang Xuyao
Published: August 2023

Background

The TNM staging system cannot accurately predict the prognosis of postoperative gastric signet ring cell carcinoma (GSRC) given its unique biological behavior, epidemiological features, and various prognostic factors. Therefore, a reliable postoperative prognostic evaluation system for GSRC is required. This study aimed to establish a nomogram to predict the overall survival (OS) rate of postoperative patients with GSRC and validate it in the real world.

Methods

Clinical data of postoperative patients with GSRC from 2002 to 2014 were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database and randomly assigned to training and internal validation sets at a 7:3 ratio. The external validation set used data from 124 postoperative patients with GSRC who were admitted to the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University between 2002 and 2014. The independent risk factors affecting OS were screened using univariate and multivariate analyses to construct a nomogram. The performance of the model was evaluated using the C-index, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), calibration curve, decision analysis (DCA) curve, and adjuvant chemotherapy decision analysis.

Results

Univariate/multivariate analysis indicated that age, stage, T, M, regional nodes optimized (RNE), and lymph node metastasis rate (LNMR) were independent risk factors affecting prognosis. The C-indices of the training, internal validation, and external validation sets are 0.741, 0.741, and 0.786, respectively. The ROC curves for the first, third, and fifth years in three sets had higher areas under the curves, (training set, 0.782, 0.864, 0.883; internal validation set, 0.781, 0.863, 0.877; external validation set, 0.819, 0.863, 0.835). The calibration curve showed high consistency between the nomogram-predicted 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS and the actual OS in the three queues. The DCA curve indicated that applying the nomogram enhanced the net clinical benefits. The nomogram effectively distinguished patients in each subgroup into high- and low-risk groups. Adjuvant chemotherapy can significantly improve OS in high-risk group (P = 0.034), while the presence or absence of adjuvant chemotherapy in low-risk group has no significant impact on OS (P = 0.192).

Conclusions

The nomogram can effectively predict the OS of patients with GSRC and may help doctors make personalized prognostic judgments and clinical treatment decisions.
Feasibility of a kinect-based system in assessing physical function of the elderly for home-based care
Authors: Liu Xin-Ting , Nikkhoo Mohammad , Wang Lizhen , Chen Carl PC , Chen Hung-Bin , Chen Chih-Jui , Cheng Chih-Hsiu
Published: August 2023

Background

With concerns about accurate diagnosis through telehealth, the Kinect sensor offers a reliable solution for movement analysis. However, there is a lack of practical research investigating the suitability of a Kinect-based system as a functional fitness assessment tool in homecare settings. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a Kinect-based system to assess physical function changes in the elderly.

Methods

The study consisted of two phases. Phase one involved 35 young healthy adults, evaluating the reliability and validity of a Kinect-based fitness evaluation compared to traditional physical examination using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Phase two involved 665 elderly subjects, examining the correlation between the Kinect-based fitness evaluation and physical examination through Pearson’s correlation coefficients. A Kinect sensor (Microsoft Xbox One Kinect V2) with customized software was employed to capture and compute the movement of joint centers. Both groups performed seven functional assessments simultaneously monitored by a physical therapist and the Kinect system. System usability and user satisfaction were assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and Questionnaire for User Interface Satisfaction (QUIS), respectively.

Results

Kinect-based system showed overall moderate to excellent within-day reliability (ICC = 0.633-1.0) and between-day reliability (ICC = 0.686-1.0). The overall agreement between the two devices was highly correlated (r ≧ 0.7) for all functional assessment tests in young healthy adults. The Kinect-based system also showed a high correlation with physical examination for the functional assessments (r = 0.858–0.988) except functional reach (r = 0.484) and walking speed(r = 0.493). The users’ satisfaction with the system was excellent (SUS score = 84.4 ± 18.5; QUIS score = 6.5–6.7).

Conclusions

The reliability and validity of Kinect for assessing functional performance are generally favorable. Nonetheless, caution is advised when employing Kinect for tasks involving depth changes, such as functional reach and walking speed tests for their moderate validity. However, Kinect’s fundamental motion detection capabilities demonstrate its potential for future applications in telerehabilitation in different healthcare settings.
3D-based strain analysis and cardiotoxicity detection in cancer patients received chemotherapy
Authors: Azzam Muhammad , Wasef Mohammad , Khalaf Hani , Al-Habbaa Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Background

Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity has become a prevalent complication. Regular monitoring of patients who received chemotherapy using 3D strain parameters may aid in early detection of myocardial damage and its prevention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of three-dimensional speckle tracking imaging (3D-STI) in diagnosing and predicting the likelihood of cardiotoxicity. This was achieved by conducting a systematic review of original research articles.

Objectives

To evaluate the role of 3D speckle tracking echocardiography in early detection of cardiotoxicity.

Methods

Relevant case control studies published prior to December 2022 were extracted to assess cardiotoxicity by 3D STE in patients after chemotherapy.

Results

A total of 1991 chemotherapy treated patients and control patients were included in the present review via pooling 22 studies.

Conclusions

3D speckle tracking echocardiography has the utility of non-invasive and objective evaluation of changes in left ventricular function in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

ROSPERO registration No

Study ID, CRD42023383790 on PROSPERO: International prospective register of systematic reviews.
Association of self-reported use of cannabis for the purpose of improving physical, mental, and sleep health with problematic cannabis use risk
Authors: Jacobs Wura , Merianos Ashley L. , Quinn Patrick , Barrington-Trimis Jessica , Leventhal Adam
Published: August 2023

Background

Little is known about health-focused cannabis use purposes and their associations with risk for problematic cannabis use. This cross-sectional study examined three broad cannabis use purposes and association with risk for problematic use among young adult cannabis users who report using for > 1 health reasons.

Methods

Young adults completed an electronic survey as part of an ongoing study on substance use and health. Those who self-reported past 6-month use of ≥ 1 cannabis products—smoking, vaping, dabbing, eating, and blunts—were included in the analysis. Their purposes for use were coded into three categories: sleep, mental, and physical health. Problematic cannabis use (PCU) was measured with the three-level structure Cannabis Abuse Screening Test (CAST-3). Adjusted multivariable regression models were used to estimate use purposes associated with with problematic cannabis use at the p < 0.05 level.

Results

Participants (n = 954) were mostly female (63.94%) and Hispanic (54.93%). Mental health was the most endorsed reason (73.38%) for use among study sample. Among participants, 36.3% were classified as being at severe risk (CAST-3 score ≥ 8). There was a significant association between PCU risk and reporting cannabis use for physical health (p < 0.01), mental health, and sleep health (p < 0.01) purposes. Those who used cannabis for physical heath purposes had about four times the risk (adjusted relative risk ratio (aRRR) = 4.38, 95% CI = 3.06–6.69), those who used for mental health had about three times the risk (aRRR = 2.81, 95% CI = 1.86–4.72), and those who used for sleep health had almost two times the risk (aRRR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.17–2.63) for severe PCU.

Conclusion

All cannabis use purposes examined increased risk of problematic cannabis use. Physical health use purposes was associated with highest PCU risk. This study demonstrates the risk for cannabis use disorder associated with self-medicating with cannabis.
Dementia and the history of disease in older adults in community
Authors: Wang Yuan , Xu Honglian , Geng Zihan , Geng Guiling , Zhang Feng
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Many studies have revealed the effect of medical history on dementia. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between the history of disease and onset of dementia.

Methods

This was a multi-center, cross-sectional study, with 2595 older adults enrolled. The onset of dementia was evaluated with Revised Hasegawa Dementia Scale (HDS-R). The diagnosed diseases after the age of 40 of the participants were investigated, including respiratory system diseases, digestive system diseases, cardiovascular diseases, endocrine disorders, genitourinary system diseases, nervous system disease, sensory system diseases, dental/oral diseases, bone/joint diseases and mental illnesses.

Results

Data of 2458 older adults were analyzed. Univariate analysis showed that diabetes, thyroid disease, mental illness, hearing loss, stroke, dental/oral disease, Denture use, fracture/osteoporosis, kidney disease and number of diseases were risk factors for dementia. After controlling for demographic sociological variables, diabetes, dental/oral disease, and denture use were independent risk factors for dementia. Thyroid disease (P = 0.313), mental illnesses (P = 0.067), hearing loss (P = 0.595), stroke (P = 0.538), fractures/osteoporosis (P = 0.069), kidney disease (P = 0.168) were no longer significant to dementia.

Conclusion

Diabetes, dental/oral disease and denture use were main risk factors for dementia.
Same-gender differences in perioperative complications and transfusion management for lower limb arthroplasty
Authors: Koettnitz Julian , Migliorini Filippo , Peterlein Christian D. , Götze Christian
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA) are surgical interventions for patients with primary and posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The present clinical investigation compared gender differences in THA and TKA.

Methods

Data from 419 patients following primary THA and TKA were collected. The occurrence of systemic and surgery-related complications, the units of blood transfused, and the change in Hb were investigated. Hb was collected preoperatively and at 1, 2, 4 and 7 days postoperatively. Statistical analysis was performed using the software IBM SPSS 28.

Results

There was no significant difference in surgery-related and general complications in men between THA and TKA. A significant difference between THA and TKA in systemic complications in women was observed. No significant difference between THA and TKA in related to surgery-related complications was evidenced. In men, no difference in Hb progression was observed. In women, a significant Hb drop was evidenced (p = 0.03). The rate of blood transfusion units in women was significantly greater in TKA than in THA (p = 0.001). No statistically significant difference was observed in men in the rate of transfusion between THA and TKA.

Conclusion

Perioperative care should be organized differently for women and men. Furthermore, a differentiation between the procedures for each sex could prevent the occurrence of perioperative complicated courses.
Efficient delivery of a large-size Cas9-EGFP vector in porcine fetal fibroblasts using a Lonza 4D-Nucleofector system
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Wang Xiaoguo , Liu Ruirong , Liao Yaya , Peng Zhiwei , Jiang Haoyun , Jing Qiqi , Xing Yuyun
Published: August 2023

Background

Porcine fetal fibroblasts (PFFs) are important donor cells for generating genetically modified pigs, but the transfection efficiencies of PFFs are often unsatisfactory especially when large-size vectors are to be delivered. In this study, we aimed to optimize the transfection conditions for delivery of a large-size vector in PFFs using Lonza 4D-Nucleofector™ vessels and strips.

Methods

We firstly delivered a 13 kb Cas9-EGFP and a 3.5 kb pMAX-GFP vector into PFFs via 7 programs recommended by the Lonza basic protocol. We then tested 6 customized dual-electroporation programs for delivering the 13 kb plasmid into PFFs. In addition, we screened potential alternative electroporation buffers to the Nucleofector™ P3 solution. Finally, three CRISPR/Cas9-sgRNAs targeting Rosa26, H11, and Cep112 loci were delivered into PFFs with different single and dual-electroporation programs.

Results

Notably lower transfection efficiencies were observed when delivering the 13 kb vector than delivering the 3.5 kb vector in PFFs via the single-electroporation programs. The customized dual-electroporation program FF-113 + CA-137 exhibited higher transfection efficiencies than any of the single-electroporation programs using vessels (98.1%) or strips (89.1%) with acceptable survival rates for the 13 kb vector. Entranster-E buffer generated similar transfection efficiencies and 24-hour survival rates to those from the P3 solution, thus can be used as an alternative electroporation buffer. In the genome-editing experiments, the FF-113 + CA-137 and CA-137 + CA-137 programs showed significantly superior (P < 0.01) efficiencies to ones from the single-electroporation programs in vessels and strips. Entranster-E buffer produced higher indel efficiencies than the P3 buffer.

Conclusions

We markedly increased the delivery efficiencies for a large vector via customized dual-electroporation programs using Lonza 4D-Nucleofector™ system, and Entranster-E buffer can be used as an alternative electroporation buffer to Nucleofector™ P3 buffer.
Health facilities preparedness to deliver maternal and newborn health care in Kilifi and Kisii Counties, Kenya
Authors: Orwa James , Temmerman Marleen , Nyaga Lucy , Mulama Kennedy , Luchters Stanley
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Health facility preparedness is essential for delivering quality maternal and newborn care, minimizing morbidity and mortality by addressing delays in seeking skilled care, reaching appropriate facilities, and receiving emergency care. A rapid assessment of 23 government health facilities in Kilifi and Kisii counties identified poor maternal and newborn indicators in 16 facilities. The Access to Quality Care through Extending and Strengthening Health Systems (AQCESS) project supported these facilities with training, equipment, and referral linkages. This study focuses on facility preparedness of the 16 facilities to deliver maternal and newborn health services, specifically delays two and three at the end of the project implementation.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried-out on behalf of AQCESS project team by respective county ministry of health in-charge of reproductive maternal newborn and child health programs and trained nurses and medical doctors from Aga Khan health services in December 2019. The study evaluated the accessibility and reliability of drugs, commodities, equipment, personnel, basic necessities (such as water and electricity), and guidelines using validated World Health Organization service availability and readiness assessment tool. The findings of the assessment are presented through frequency and percentage analysis, along with a comparative analysis between the two counties.

Results

All the 16 facilities assessed offered routine antenatal care (ANC) and normal delivery, but only two provided comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care (CEmONC). Most essential medicines, commodities, and required equipment were available. BEmONC and CEmONC guidelines were present in Kilifi, not in Kisii. One staff member was available 24/7 for cesarean section (CS) in each county, with one anesthetist in Kilifi. Electricity was accessible in all facilities, but only half had secondary power supply. Facilities offering CS had backup generators.

Conclusion

The Facilities assessed had necessary drugs, commodities, equipment, and requirements, but staffing and guidelines were limited. Kilifi outperformed Kisii in most indicators. Additional support is needed for infrastructure and human resources to deliver quality maternal and newborn health services. Continuous monitoring will facilitate resource allocation based on facility needs.
Heritability of biting time behaviours in the major African malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis
Authors: Govella Nicodem J. , Johnson Paul C. D. , Killeen Gerry F. , Ferguson Heather M.
Published: August 2023

Background

The use of insecticide-treated nets for malaria control has been associated with shifts in mosquito vector feeding behaviour including earlier and outdoor biting on humans. The relative contribution of phenotypic plasticity and heritability to these behavioural shifts is unknown. Elucidation of the mechanisms behind these shifts is crucial for anticipating impacts on vector control.

Methods

A novel portable semi-field system (PSFS) was used to experimentally measure heritability of biting time in the malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis in Tanzania. Wild An. arabiensis from hourly collections using the human landing catch (HLC) method were grouped into one of 3 categories based on their time of capture: early (18:00–21:00), mid (22:00–04:00), and late (05:00–07:00) biting, and placed in separate holding cages. Mosquitoes were then provided with a blood meal for egg production and formation of first filial generation (F1). The F1 generation of each biting time phenotype category was reared separately, and blood fed at the same time as their mothers were captured host-seeking. The resultant eggs were used to generate the F2 generation for use in heritability assays. Heritability was assessed by releasing F2 An. arabiensis into the PSFS, recording their biting time during a human landing catch and comparing it to that of their F0 grandmothers.

Results

In PSFS assays, the biting time of F2 offspring (early: 18:00–21:00, mid: 22:00–04:00 or late: 05:00–07:00) was significantly positively associated with that of their wild-caught F0 grandmothers, corresponding to an estimated heritability of 0.110 (95% CI 0.003, 0.208). F2 from early-biting F0 were more likely to bite early than F2 from mid or late-biting F0. Similarly, the probability of biting late was higher in F2 derived from mid and late-biting F0 than from early-biting F0.

Conclusions

Despite modest heritability, our results suggest that some of the variation in biting time is attributable to additive genetic variation. Selection can, therefore, act efficiently on mosquito biting times, highlighting the need for control methods that target early and outdoor biting mosquitoes.
Fatty acids and pregnancy-induced hypertension: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Zixuan , He Wenkai
Published: August 2023

Background

It is well known that pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) contributes significantly to the mortality rates of both mothers and babies during pregnancy. The relationship between fatty acids (FAs) and PIH remains debatable, with the causality between the two yet to be definitively established.

Methods

Two-sample univariable and multivariable Mendelian Randomization (MR) analyses were executed, based on pooled data from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), to investigate any causal impact of FAs on PIH. A suite of methods was employed to assess causality, including inverse variance weighting (IVW), weighted median, MR Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode. Subsequently, the data underwent a sensitivity analysis (using Leave-One-Out analysis), a heterogeneity test (with MR-PRESSO and Cochran’s Q test), as well as a multiple validity test (using MR-Egger regression). In multivariable analyses, fatty acids were first grouped to observe the effect of individual FAs on PIH. Subsequently, factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI) were incorporated into a multivariable examination of the impact of each FA on PIH. During this process, the IVW, weighted median, MR-Lasso, and MR-Egger methods were employed.

Results

A systematic investigation was conducted into the causal impact of each FA on PIH. The findings indicated that Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA), Omega3, the ratio of Omega6 to Omega3, and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) have a causal relationship with PIH. Increases in PUFA, Omega3, and DHA could potentially reduce the risk of PIH, while an increase in the Omega6/Omega3 ratio could heighten the risk. The impacts of other FAs (including Total Fatty Acids, Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFA), Saturated Fatty Acids (SFA), and Omega 6) on PIH were not substantiated by the MR analysis. In the univariate leave-one-out analysis, rs174564 was identified in PUFA, Omega3, and DHA as having a significant role. The tests with MR-Egger and MR-PRESSO found that the results were not influenced by pleiotropy and heterogeneity. After adjusting for BMI, Diabetes Mellitus, and pre-existing hypertension in the multivariable analysis, the results mirrored those obtained univariable.

Conclusion

The research implies that elevated levels of circulating PUFA, DHA, and Omega3 may serve as a protective mechanism against PIH, while higher Omega6/Omega3 ratios could potentially increase the risk of PIH. These findings may inform clinical strategies for PIH prevention.