bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COSMIC FEASIBILITY STUDY: COMPARING OPEN SCARF OSTEOTOMY AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE CHEVRON OSTEOTOMY FOR HALLUX VALGUS CORRECTION
Authors: Kakwani Mehak , Pujol-Nicolas A , Griffiths A , Hutt N , Townshend D , Murty A , Kakwani R
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has gained popularity for hallux valgus, compared to the traditional scarf osteotomy (OS). Though evidence suggests similar clinical outcomes, there is paucity of randomised controlled studies. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial comparing the patient recorded and clinical outcomes for the surgical management of Hallux Valgus between OS and MIS Chevron Akin (MICA).

Methods

Patients suitable for surgical correction were invited to participate. Post-op rehabilitation was standardised for both groups. Patients completed a validated questionnaire (Manchester Oxford Foot questionnaire and EQ-5D-5L) pre-operatively and post-operatively at 6 months and 1 year. Radiological parameters and range of motion were measured pre-and post-operatively.

Results

31 patients were recruited between Dec 2017 and June 2022. 17 patients were randomised to MICA (15 female, mean age 51) and 15 to OS (14 female, mean age 51). Both groups had a significant improvement in all MOXFQ parameters at 6m and 12m, as well as radiological parameters. VAS improved for OS (p=0.048) and for MICA (p=0.059) at 6m.

There was no significant improvement in EQ-5D in either group at 12 months and no significant difference in operative time (p=0.53). There was a higher number of complications in the MICA group with 5 removal of metalwork (29.4%) and 2 superficial infections (11.8%) versus none in the OS group. The dorsiflexion significantly improved in the OS group at 6months (p=0.04). Recruitment rate dipped during COVID. No patients were lost at follow up.

Conclusion

Both surgical options show similar clinical results, but higher complication rates were seen with MICA. This study illustrates the feasibility to conduct a randomised control trial for the comparison between the two techniques.

Challenges to recruitment included surgeon equipoise, patient preference, training requirement and the pandemic which could be mitigated in a larger study.
FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES OF ELBOW HEMIARTHROPLASTY FOR DISTAL HUMERUS: A VIABLE OPTION IN COMPLEX DISTAL HUMERUS FRACTURES
Authors: Rai Avinash , Nanda Rajesh , Ponugoti Nikhil , Saunders Mark
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Distal humerus fractures in elderly population are often comminuted and presents multiple challenges. When managed with fixation the results are often complicated with stiffness, pain, and reduced function while total elbow replacement is fraught with lifelong restrictions on load bearing which can significantly affect elderly patients who rely assistive devices for ambulation. Elbow hemiarthroplasty however, presents a viable alternative in these cases. This series evaluates the results of the distal humerus hemiarthroplasty in a single centre.

Designs and methods

Data was collected retrospectively. Comprehensive case reviews were done to collect demographic, intra-operative and post-operative data. Fractures were classified as per AO classification. The primary outcome was functional outcome and range of motion (ROM). The secondary outcomes were complications and patient satisfaction.

Results

22 cases were included in this study from 2016 – 2023 majority being females (n=18). Mean age was 74years (SD −11.2). Majority fractures were AO type C3 (n=15) with two A2 type fractures managed for non-union. Pre-existing bone on bone arthritis was present in 3 cases and CT scan was done for 12 patients to assess fracture configuration. Excluding those treated for non- union the median time between fracture and surgery was 8.5 days. Follow-up of more than 6 months was available for 16 patients with median follow-up of 18 months. ROM was available for 17 patients with 13 (50%) patients having functional ROM. No patients had full extension and there was a mean lag of 200. Mean flexion was 118.20. Nearly 2/3rd patients (73%- n=16) were satisfied with the surgery with no problems in activity of daily living. Complications seen were ulnar neuropathy (n=3), heterotopic ossification(n=2) and periprosthetic fracture (n=1).

Conclusion

This single centre study suggests good outcomes following distal humerus hemiarthroplasty. It is a reasonable alternative to fixation and total elbow arthroplasty in complex fractures.
Diabetes distress, the mediator of the poor glycemic control and depression: A meta-analysis
Authors: Mirghani Hyder O
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Diabetes-related distress (DRD) is a common psychological disorder specifically associated with diabetes, its cross-talk with depression, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was discussed controversially. Interventions addressing DRD were shown to improve HbA1c. However, the primary concern is to investigate the association of DRD with glycemic control. No meta-analyses have compared the effects of depression and diabetes distress on HbA1c.

AIM

To assess the relationship between DRD, depression, and glycemic control.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library from inception up to May 2024. The keywords diabetes distress, depression, psychopathology, glycemic control, HbA1c, glycated hemoglobin, fasting, and postprandial blood glucose were used. A datasheet was used to extract the author’s name year and country of publication, diabetes distress, depression, and HbA1c among patients with DRD, depression, and control subjects.

RESULTS

Out of the 2046 studies retrieved, 55 full texts were screened and 22 studies were included in the final meta-analysis. Diabetes distress was associated with poor glycemic control, odd ratio = 0.42, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.17-0.67, and P value < 0.001, and odd ratio = 0.52, 95%CI: 0.38-0.72, and P value < 0.001 respectively. No significant difference was observed between depression and DRD regarding the impact on HbA1c, odd ratio = 0.13, 95%CI: 0.15-0.41, P value = 0.37, I 2 for heterogeneity = 76%. However, when heterogeneity was eliminated, diabetes distress influenced the HbA1c more compared to depression, odd ratio = 0.29, 95%CI: 0.17-0.41, and P value < 0.001.

CONCLUSION

DRD negatively influenced the HbA1c and glycemic control more than depression. Further studies using more specific measures (ecological momentary assessment) to assess DRD are recommended.
Navigating young fatherhood in contemporary South Africa: does the provider status still matter?
Authors: Dunn Shanaaz , Maharaj Pranitha
Published: December 2024

Historically, fathers were often expected to be the primary providers of their families; however, the role of men has evolved substantially. Increasingly, men are changing and so are their responsibilities. The aim of this study is to explore the role that young fathers play in contemporary families and the challenges they are exposed to. This study focuses on 20 young men living in Durban, South Africa. The young men suggested that being able to provide for their children was still an important part of their role. However, being unable to maintain this was not only a financial struggle but also one that affected them emotionally. The young men demonstrated their renewed commitment of wanting to do and be better, even in the absence of finances. More family-centred support should be implemented in communities, especially in lower-income contexts.
Economic evaluation of expanding inguinal hernia repair among adult males in Sierra Leone
Authors: Thet Lwin Zin Min , Mansaray Abdul Rahman , Al-Samman Sam , Keel George , Forsberg Birger C. , Beard Jessica H. , van Duinen Alex J. , Bolkan Håkon Angell , Ashley Thomas , Palmu Juuli , Kalsi Hertta , Ashley Hannah , Löfgren Jenny
Published: December 2024

Sierra Leone faces a substantial backlog of patients with inguinal hernia in need of repair due to a shortage of surgical providers. The current mitigation strategy includes task-sharing with associate clinicians and non-specialist medical doctors, and the economic impact of this approach needs assessment for potential scale-up. This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of open mesh repair of inguinal hernias by associate clinicians and non-specialist medical doctors in adult males (>18 years) compared to no treatment, as well as between the two provider types and to estimate the budget impact of clearing the backlog in Sierra Leone. A Markov model was constructed to calculate the cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted over 10 years for operations by different providers. Subsequently, the costs of reducing the backlog through accelerated repair rates via task-sharing were assessed under two scenarios, with or without a budget limit. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the uncertainty of input values. Associate clinicians and non-specialist medical doctors achieved USD 250 and USD 411 per DALY averted, respectively, which is below the GDP per capita of USD 1,427. Associate clinicians delivered comparable health outcomes at lower costs than non-specialist medical doctors. A budget of USD 108 million was projected to clear the entire backlog over 10 years. Hernia repair by both associate clinicians and non-specialist medical doctors in Sierra Leone is highly cost-effective. Associate clinicians, with quality training and supportive supervision, are more cost-effective than non-specialist medical doctors. Task-sharing, especially with associate clinicians, is promising for optimizing access to surgical services.
Integration of biological data via NMF for identification of human disease-associated gene modules through multi-label classification
Authors: Alberuni Syed , Ray Sumanta
Published: December 2024

Proteins associated with multiple diseases often interact, forming disease modules that are critical for understanding disease mechanisms. This study integrates protein-protein interactions (PPIs) and Gene Ontology data using non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) to identify gene modules associated with human diseases. We leverage two biological sources of information, protein-protein interactions (PPIs) and Gene Ontology data, to find connections between novel genes and diseases. The data sources are first converted into networks, which are then clustered to obtain modules. Two types of modules are then integrated through an NMF-based technique to obtain a set of meta-modules that preserve the essential characteristics of interaction patterns and functional similarity information among the proteins/genes. Each meta-module is labeled based on its statistical and biological properties, and a multi-label classification technique is employed to assign new disease labels to genes. We identified 3,131 gene-disease associations, validated through a literature review, Gene Ontology, and pathway analysis.
Does the establishment of civilized cities promote urban inclusive development?——Quasi-natural experiment based on the selection of “National Civilized City”
Authors: Zhang Enguang , Zhang Jing , Li Xuesi , Dai Yangyang , Zhang Mingdou , Li Weilu
Published: December 2024

Taking the selection of “National Civilized City” as a quasi-natural experiment and basing on the research samples of 272 prefecture level and above cities in China from 2003 to 2020, this paper explores the impact of the establishment of civilized cities on urban inclusive development and its mechanism by using the time-varying DID model. The findings are as follows: firstly, the establishment of civilized cities has significantly promoted the urban inclusive development, and then parallel trend test, placebo test and other robustness tests verify the reliability of the research conclusions. Secondly, in regions with larger population, stronger financial strength and belonging to the Excellent Tourism City, the establishment of civilized cities has a more obvious role in promoting urban inclusiveness. Thirdly, the establishment of civilized cities promotes the urban inclusive development through government public regulation at the macro level, industrial structure upgrading at the middle level, and talent gathering and infrastructure construction at the micro level. The research conclusion of this paper has a certain reference value for giving full play to the policy effect of the selection of “National Civilized Cities”, further promoting the urban inclusive development and achieving common prosperity.
The unmet needs of adopting clinical decision support system among physicians in Palestinian hospitals
Authors: Sultan Haya , Najjar Shahenaz , Awartani Faisal , Abu-Odah Hammoda
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Clinical decision support system (CDSS) is an application used to aid decision-making and provide knowledge regarding treatment, diagnosis, and laboratory testing. Despite the associated benefits, the underutilization of CDSS is causing a global challenge. In Palestine, CDSS remains unimplemented, prompting a study on knowledge levels and factors influencing CDSS acceptance among physicians.

Objective

The study aimed to assess physicians’ knowledge of CDSS and understand factors impacting CDSS adoption, including performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), computer self-efficacy, involvement in decision-making, perceived threat to autonomy, and social influence.

Methods

A validated questionnaire-based survey consisting of seven constructs was used in this study. The constructs were derived from the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). The target population was 363 resident physicians and general practitioners (GPs) from three governmental hospitals. In total, 124 participants were enrolled, and data was collected between June 1 and June 30, 2022. Generalized linear regression was used for data analysis.

Results

Most participants were males (75%), with an average of 2.9 years of experience. Despite limited CDSS knowledge, participants strongly intended to adopt it (mean = 3.91, SD = 0.65). Our results showed a significant effect of PE (p = 0.000, r = 0.469), EE (p = 0.001, r = 0.294), computer self-efficacy level (p = 0.015, r = 0.218), perceived threat to professional autonomy (p = 0.001, r = -0.302), and social influence (p = 0.047, r = 0.179) on the intention to adopt CDSS. However, involvement in decision-making about CDSS had no significant impact (p = 0.123, r = 0.140).

Conclusion

This study provides the basis for implementing CDSS in Palestinian settings. Despite the readiness of Palestinian healthcare providers, introducing CDSS as an aiding, effort-free tool is a prerequisite for successful CDSS adoption in Palestine.
A helping hand: Applying behavioural science and co-design methodology to improve hand hygiene compliance in the hospital setting
Authors: Blair Calea-Jay , McCrudden Clare , Brazier Alix , Huf Sarah , Gregory Alice , O’Driscoll Fiona , Galletly Tracey , Leon-Villapalos Clare , Brown Helen , Clay Kristina , Maxwell Shona , Anakwe Raymond , Grailey Kate
Published: December 2024

Compliance with hand hygiene is an effective way of reducing the incidence of healthcare acquired infections (HCAI). At one London National Health Service (NHS) Trust, improving hand hygiene compliance (HHC) was a patient safety priority in response to non-compliance and ongoing occurrences of HCAI. The objective of this study was to co-design a behavioural science informed intervention to improve HHC. To obtain a baseline level of HHC and understand associated behaviours, 18 hours of observation were undertaken on three inpatient wards. These focused upon Moment 1 and 5 of the World Health Organisation’s moments for hand hygiene. The intervention was co-designed with clinical staff and took the form of “visual primes”. Three different stickers designed to create a motivational “nudge” were placed at key points where HHC had been observed to fail. Following implementation, a further 18 hours of observation took place. A Chi-squared statistical analysis compared proportions of HHC pre- and post-intervention. Our intervention led to an 11% increase in HHC across the three study wards for both Moments (X2 (1, N = 1,285) = 13.711, p = <0.001) in the six weeks following the intervention. The intervention had a more marked effect on Moment 1, (with an increase of 15%, X2 (1, N = 667) = 17.091, p = <0.001 when compared to the change in compliance with Moment 5 (11%, X2 (1, N = 652) = 7.449, p = 0.06). This study demonstrated that utilising behavioural science in the co-design and placement of visual motivational nudges can significantly improve compliance with hand hygiene practices. We highlight the benefit of co-design when designing interventions–both in terms of engagement with and efficacy of the intervention.
Coping strategies employed by older Nepalese migrant women to manage their mental distress in the UK: A qualitative research
Authors: Sah Lalita Kumari , Sah Rajeeb Kumar , Singh Devendra Raj , Burgess Rochelle A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Mental health and wellbeing is a global public health concern. However, there is limited evidence on managing the mental health needs of the Nepalese migrant population in the UK. This paper is focused on exploring coping strategies employed by older Nepalese migrant women in managing their mental distress.

Methods

A qualitative study informed by a narrative approach was conducted among twenty Nepalese older women living in London. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Findings identified three major coping strategies used by Nepalese older women: i) Engaging others to access human, social and economic resources in problem focussed strategies; ii) Using emotion-focussed strategies through drawing on human and social resources; and iii) Employing emotion-focussed strategies through prayer and acceptance. Each strategy reflected the strategic use of existing resources, highlighting a strong sense of ownership over their mental wellbeing.

Conclusion

Nepalese women used both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies to manage their mental distress while living in the UK. However, they had poor awareness of the availability or potential benefits of mental health services in managing their distress and were not able to identify their everyday survival as strengths. We assert social interventions that build on women’s abilities are essential to promote mental health and wellbeing.
Dynamics of submicroscopic and microscopic asymptomatic malaria infection and associated factors: A longitudinal study in South Benin
Authors: Telfils Rodeline , Dossou Akpéyédjé Yannelle , Djènontin Armel , Adimi Elisée , Akoho Romuald , Bailly Justine , Bouraïma Aziz , Matondo Déborah , Sissinto-Savi de Tove Yolande , Houinato Dismand , Massougbodji Achille , Dechavanne Célia , Cottrell Gilles
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Asymptomatic malaria infection is now recognized as a potential threat to malaria control. However, its prevalence and its dynamics are poorly documented especially in a perennial context of high seasonal transmission. A longitudinal study was conducted in southern Benin to investigate the dynamics of asymptomatic malaria infection and to identify factors influencing it.

Methods

A cohort of 377 participants was recruited, stratified into three age groups (under 5 years, between 5 and 15 years, over 15 years). After inclusion, two visits were made one-month apart between August and November 2021. Malaria infection was diagnosed by microscopy and PCR and questionnaires were administered to the participants. The dynamics of malaria infection, both submicroscopic (positive PCR / negative blood smear) and microscopic (positive blood smear), and related factors were determined using a mixed ordinal polytomous regression model and a multistate Markov model.

Results

The human infectious reservoir consisted primarily of asymptomatic submicroscopic infections (289/512 (56.4%)), followed by asymptomatic microscopic infections (182/512 (35.5%)) and symptomatic infections (41/512 (8%)). The prevalence of asymptomatic infection was highly related to age-group (5–15 years: OR: 4 .12 [2.55–6.67] and > 15 years OR: 2.80 [1.73–4.54] compared to the under 5 years old group). The children under 15 years with asymptomatic infection had the highest risk of becoming symptomatic. The mean duration of asymptomatic infections in 5–15-year-olds was the longest (76.7 days (53.8–109.1)).

Conclusion

This study revealed a persistent asymptomatic malaria reservoir over the follow-up period, with substantial variations between age-groups. These findings are important elements to consider for an optimal deployment of malaria control interventions.
Knowledge generation towards evidence-based practice and nursing competency
Authors: Konlan Kennedy Diema , Adedia David , Nyande Felix K. , Amenuke Margaret , Tackie Vivian , Anaman-Torgbor Judith A.
Published: December 2024

Aim

This study aims to describe the nursing competency, research knowledge and skills of nurses in Ghana regarding evidence-based practice.

Methods

This nationwide descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 480 clinical nurses and nurse educators from both private and public institutions. Nurses were included in the study if they had a full-time or part-time appointment, were in active service, and had a valid Personal Identification Number from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare mean rank scores between two groups, and the Kruskal Wallis H-test was used for the comparison.

Results

Thirty percent of them rated their ability to formulate research questions, conduct literature search and retrieval, and critical analysis of scientific literature as fair or poor. Half of the nurses disagreed with changing to new methods, and more than half at least agreed with all the items measuring the use of evidence-based practice. One out of every 20 Nurses somewhat disagreed with formulating answerable research questions at work, and the same proportion disagreed or were neutral to integrating evidence into practice with their expertise. It was statistically significant that females (p-value = 0.001), married (p-value = 0.054), Christians (p-value<0.001), nurse educators (p-value<0.001) and part-time workers (p-value<0.001) were more likely to have higher mean scores on research knowledge and skills. The Kruskal Wallis test showed that research knowledge and skills (H = 97.281, p-value<0.001, df = 2), attitude towards evidence-based practice (H = 10.143, p-value = 0.006, df = 2), and nursing competencies (H = 9.041, p-value = 0.011, df = 2) differ for all the educational level of all nurses.

Conclusion

The self-reported competencies in the various aspects of the research process and knowledge generation by both clinicians and nurse educators were good; however, the overall composite score revealed that nurses only had fair knowledge and skills in this regard. Nurses should be given the requisite training to appraise and evaluate nursing research for incorporation into nursing practice.
Association between Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion polymorphism and hypertension in a Ghanaian population
Authors: Bonney Precious , Obirikorang Christian , Quaye Lawrence , Dapare Peter Paul , Adams Yussif , Bourawono Grace , Akaluti Mercy , Duodu Jemimah
Published: December 2024

Background

Genetic modifications in the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) have been suggested to play a key role in the pathophysiology of hypertension. The insertion/deletion polymorphism of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene phenomenon and its relationship with essential hypertension has not been explored within the Ghanaian population. This study aims to determine the relationship between the ACE I/D polymorphism and the risk of essential hypertension among patients seeking medical attention.

Methods

This case-control study was conducted at the Tamale Central Hospital in Ghana. A total of 144 study participants comprising 72 hypertensive patients and 72 normotensive individuals were recruited from May to July 2022. The modified WHO step questionnaire for chronic diseases was used to collect ACE concentrations and electrolytes were estimated and molecular testing conducted using to identify genotypes. To compare continuous variables between two groups and among multiple groups, the Student’s t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used respectively. Genotype and allele frequencies were determined through direct counts, while differences in the distribution of alleles and genotypes between groups were estimated using chi-squared test.

Results

The distribution of DD genotype and D allele respectively was 26.4% and 54% in hypertensives and 50% and 72% in normotensives. DD genotype significantly increased the risk of hypertension after adjusting for age and BMI (aOR = 8.52, 95% C.I = 1.22–59.6). In the recessive model, the risk of hypertension increased four times in subjects with the DD genotype (aOR = 4.09, 95% CI = 1.28–13.05). ACE levels were significantly elevated among hypertensives compared to controls, but did not significantly differ between the DD genotype and II+ID genotypes among hypertensives and normotensive subjects.

Conclusion

The study shows that the presence of the DD genotype is strongly associated with an increased risk of hypertension in the Ghanaian population.
Has the educational use of digital technologies changed after the pandemic? A longitudinal study
Authors: Pozo Juan-Ignacio , Cabellos Beatriz , Pérez Echeverría María del Puy
Published: December 2024

This longitudinal study delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the utilization of digital tools in education, particularly focusing on the transition of classrooms into digital spaces. Three years after the lockdown, results from 144 primary and secondary teachers who also participated in a questionnaire during the lockdown indicate an expected decline in the frequency of using digital resources, particularly in attitude and assessment-related activities. Furthermore, activities centred around verbal and procedural learning continue to be teacher-centred. However, notably, experienced teachers using technologies exhibit a relative increase in the adoption of digital technologies for more student-centred activities, underscoring the significance of prior experience in effective technology integration. The study highlights the importance of teacher training to augment the incorporation of digital tools into the curriculum, promoting more effective teaching methodologies.
Physicochemical properties of stingless bees (Meliponula beccarii) honey in Dandi and Meta Robi districts of West Shewa zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Begna Desalegn , Motuma Girma , Boki Shambel , Bekele Niguse , Kuru Tamiru , Chimdi Achalu
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to characterize the physicochemical properties of honey produced from underground nesting stingless bees (Meliponula beccarii) in the Dandi and Meta Robi districts of the West Shewa zone, Ethiopia. A total of 27 honey samples, including 24 samples collected through careful investigation and excavation of natural nests and 3 samples purchased from the market, were analyzed in the laboratory. The evaluated physicochemical properties showed an overall mean of 306.64±87.95 meq./kg free acidity, 28.05±3.52% moisture content, 1.31±0.44 mS/cm electrical conductivity, 3.29±0.16 pH, 0.89±1.14 mg/kg HMF, 0.63±0.24% mineral (ash), 9.39±4.26% glucose, 0.24±0.01 g/100g sucrose, 10.81±4.95 g/100g maltose, and 16.57±2.55 g/100g fructose, turanose (0.20 ± 0.00 g/100g). The differences between the two district’s honey samples were significant (p > 0.05) for fructose value and considerable for free acidity, moisture content, and pH values. The honey samples purchased from the market showed similar physicochemical properties to the honey from the feral nests, with a mean of 314.33±88.72 meq./kg free acidity, 27.73±2.52% moisture content, 1.43±0.41 mS/cm electrical conductivity, 3.26±0.13 pH, 0.95±1.23 mg/kg HMF, 0.59±0.19% mineral (ash), 10.11±4.11% glucose, 0.25±0.02 g/100g sucrose, 11.23±4.52 g/100g maltose, and 16.33±2.41 g/100g fructose. The study found that the stingless bee honey from the study areas had distinctive low HMF, high free acidity, and low pH values, which may indicate the honey’s potential medicinal properties. The high free acidity in the Meliponula beccarii honey appear unusually elevated compared to other stingless bee honey and the Codex Alimentarius standards for Apis honey, suggesting increased fermentation that can originate from the bee species, plant and geographical origins, improper handling, and high moisture content. This study demonstrated that the honey in the study areas has distinctive physicochemical properties from A. mellifera-produced honey, which may support its traditional medicinal uses. Further detailed studies on ground-nesting and other stingless species’ honey medicinal values are recommended to provide scientific evidence.
Lebanese cannabis oil extract protected against folic acid-induced kidney fibrosis in rats
Authors: Bylan Diana , Khalil Alia , Shebaby Wassim , Habchy Christabel , Nasser Selim , Faour Wissam H. , Mroueh Mohamad
Published: December 2024

Background

Renal fibrosis is a major manifestation of chronic kidney disease. To date, there are no treatments to reverse kidney fibrosis. Cannabis is an aromatic herb that is widely known for its anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study is to evaluate the protective effect of Lebanese cannabis oil extract (COE) against folic acid (FA) induced renal injury both in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and methods

A single dose of 250 mg/kg of Folic acid was administered to induce renal fibrosis in rats. COE was injected at varying doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg. Body weight of rats were monitored and clinical parameters including serum creatinine, urea, and electrolytes were measured. Moreover, pathological examination of the kidney and heart was performed. Conditionally immortalized cultured rat podocytes were exposed to high concentrations of folic acid in the presence or absence of COE. MTS and in vitro scratch assay were used to assess podocyte cells viability and migration respectively. Western blot analysis was used to evaluate the phosphorylation levels of AKT and p38 MAPK.

Results

Rats that received FA showed a marked increase in serum creatinine when compared to the non-treated control group. COE at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg significantly decreased serum creatinine induced by FA. Serum sodium was significantly reduced in all the groups receiving COE. Furthermore, COE ameliorated renal and cardiac pathology abnormalities caused by FA in a dose-dependent manner. Cell viability assay revealed that COE reversed cytotoxicity induced by FA in rat podocytes. In vitro scratch assay showed that COE partially restored the migratory capacity of podocytes incubated with FA. Dose-dependent experiments showed that COE (1 and 2μg/ml) induced a significant increase of phospho-(S473)-AKT along with a decrease in phospho (T180 + Y182) P38 levels.

Conclusion

The current results revealed important protective effect of Lebanese cannabis oil extract against folic acid—induced renal fibrosis in rats.
The potential virulence of Listeria monocytogenes strains isolated from fresh produce processing facilities as determined by an invertebrate Galleria mellonella model
Authors: Bah Umaru , de Llanos Frutos Rosa , Donnellan Samantha , Smith Alva , Flockhart Allen , Singleton Ian , Wheelhouse Nick
Published: December 2024

Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium responsible for listeriosis, is an environmental and food-borne pathogen that poses a particular risk to pregnant women and the elderly. While traditionally associated with animal products, ready-to-eat salads are increasingly recognised as a source of Listeria outbreaks. However, little is known about the potential virulence of Listeria isolates from the fresh produce environment. This study assessed the virulence potential of nine L. monocytogenes strains from the fresh produce chain using the Galleria mellonella invertebrate infection model. Larvae were infected with 106 CFU of each strain via their circulatory system and compared to a reference strain L. monocytogenes (EGD-e) and Listeria ivanovii. Virulence was evaluated by measuring mortality rates, health index score of larvae, viable bacterial counts in the larvae, and the larvae’s immune. Significant differences in larval mortality were observed among strains. Strains NLmo4 and NLmo5 caused the highest mortality rates (98.8% and 96.7%, respectively at 7 days post-infection), while strain NLmo20 had a significantly lower mortality rate of 65% at the same time point (p<0.05). Six isolates that caused varied mortality rates were then selected and tested for their ability to replicate both in vitro and in vivo and their impact on larval haemocyte density. In vitro growth rates were not significantly different among L. monocytogenes strains or compared to Listeria ivanovii. However, L. monocytogenes strains persisted and replicated in larvae up to 7d days post-infection, whereas Listeria ivanovii was reduced by 5 logs CFU by day 7. The presence of these L. monocytogenes strains caused organ damage in larvae, indicated by increased melanisation and subsequent larval death. Haemocyte density showed insignificant fluctuations following infection. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest L. monocytogenes strains from fresh produce food chain have varying pathogenicity levels and can pose potential risk to human health.
Resting-state EEG microstate features for Alzheimer’s disease classification
Authors: Yang Xiaoli , Fan Zhipeng , Li Zhenwei , Zhou Jiayi
Published: December 2024

Resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) microstate analysis resolves EEG signals into topographical maps representing discrete, sequential network activations. These maps can be used to identify patterns in EEGs that may be indicative of underlying neurological conditions. One such pattern is observed in EEGs of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), where a global microstate disorganization is evident. We initially investigated the classification efficacy of microstate parameters as markers for AD classification. Subsequently, we compared the classification efficacy of EEG conventional features to ascertain the superiority of microstate features. We extracted raw EEG data from a public, independent database, OpenNeuro EEG. The raw EEG was subjected to preprocessing and band-pass filtering to obtain five distinct frequency bands. The SVM classifier was used to input the microstate feature set to determine the one with the best classification effect as the main band. In order to verify the advantage of the microstate features, the AD group and the healthy control group were filtered for the main frequency bands respectively. Then the microstate feature set and the regular feature set were extracted. The two feature sets were input into four different conventional machine learning classifiers, namely SVM, KNN, RF, and LR, in order to avoid the classifiers as the dependent variable. And the comparison of the classification results of simply two feature sets as the dependent variable can be obtained. The results show that in the Alpha (8–13 Hz) sub-band, the microstate feature set as model input to SVM is optimal for the recognition of AD, with a classification accuracy of 99.22%. The Alpha band, as the main frequency band, the microstate feature set as model input to the four classifiers obtains an average classification accuracy of 98.61%, and the average classification accuracy obtained by the conventional EEG feature set as model is 91.19%. Based on four different classifiers, microstate parameters can be served as markers to effectively classify the EEG of AD patients. The microstate feature set outperforms the conventional EEG feature set after excluding the effect of classifiers.
A qualitative study examining stressors among Respiratory Therapists in Ontario amidst the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Saragosa Marianne , Goraya Farwa , Nowrouzi-Kia Behdin , Gohar Basem
Published: December 2024

Health care systems were subjected to an unprecedented surge of critically ill patients with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which required management by Respiratory Therapists (RTs). Despite the high level of burnout reported in this health care professional group, we have limited knowledge about the lived experience of RTs during the pandemic. This study aims to examine the impact of COVID-19 on RTs in Ontario, Canada. We conducted a qualitative exploratory, descriptive study by conducting virtual semi-structured interviews and focus groups with RTs between March 2023 and June 2023. Two coders analyzed the data using thematic analysis. Twenty-seven RTs participated in the study, with the majority being female (n = 25), averaging 16.4 years of practice (range 4 to 36 years), primarily in acute care settings (n = 23). We identified four themes and lessons learned from the perspective of RTs: (1) Working in the shadow and suffering in silence reflecting varying perceptions of recognition; (2) Flying blind amidst the buzz reflecting the rapid pace of changing policies and practices as COVID-19 gained global attention; (3) Putting out fires in the face of overflowing hospitals reflecting increased workload and staffing issues; and (4) Managing tensions, both external and internal reflecting how RTs coped with distressing workplace situations and their mental well-being. Finally, lessons learned from the RTs include 1) Mobilizing early and consistently during an emergency, which addresses staff concerns; 2) Prioritizing and investing in the mental health and well-being of RTs; 3) Implementing strategies to retain experienced staff in healthcare; and 4) Involving RTs in leadership discussions. The COVID-19 stressors of RTs have illuminated the detrimental impact of the pandemic on this understudied health care profession. With this knowledge, targeted interventions can be developed to address RT recognition and staff retention and provide mental health support.
Detection method of small size defects on pipeline weld surface based on improved YOLOv7
Authors: Xu Xiangqian , Hou Wenting , Li Xing
Published: December 2024

The background of pipeline weld surface defect image is complex, and the defect size is small. Aiming at the small defect size in the weld image, which is easy to cause missed detection and false detection, a lightweight target detection algorithm based on improved YOLOv7 is proposed. Firstly, in the feature fusion network of YOLOv7, the detection ability of the algorithm to detect small and medium-sized targets in defect images is enhanced by adding a 160*160 small target detection head. Then, the convolution module in the backbone network and the feature fusion network is replaced by the depthwise separable convolution with less computational overhead, so as to effectively reduce the network calculation, parameter quantity and model volume. Finally, the loss function CIoU of YOLOv7 is optimized to EIoU loss function to accelerate the convergence speed of the model. The experimental results show that the defect detection mAP@0.5 based on the improved YOLOv7 algorithm can reach 72.2%, which is 11% higher than that of YOLOv7, and the model calculation amount and parameter amount are reduced by 75.6% and 60.3%, respectively. It can completely detect the small size defects and has a high degree of confidence, which can be effectively applied to the detection of small size defects on the surface of pipeline weld.
Comprehensive financial health assessment using Advanced machine learning techniques: Evidence based on private companies listed on ChiNext
Authors: Zhu Wen , Li Meiling , Wu Chengcheng , Liu Shanqiu
Published: December 2024

This study develops a specific and measurable framework for assessing the financial health (FH) of privately-owned companies listed on ChiNext, aimed at identifying financially sound enterprises and helping investors avoid losses caused by financial fraud or earnings management. The research proposes and tests four hypotheses related to key financial indicators and one overarching hypothesis regarding the model’s performance. Using gradient boosting machines and random forests, the model achieves high accuracy and robustness against overfitting through iterative learning. The framework incorporates four pairs of financial indicators and two non-financial indicators into four classifiers, significantly outperforming the Altman Z-score model in predicting financial soundness. Among 75 private companies with special treatment by the Securities Regulatory Commission in Shanghai and Shenzhen in 2022, 72 were correctly identified as sub-healthy or unhealthy, achieving an accuracy rate of 96%. This study demonstrates time-bound practical value by validating the model with 2022 data and highlights its relevance for cross-market applications. The results provide achievable solutions for enterprise managers and policymakers in financial decision-making and risk management.
Numerical modeling vs experiment of formic acid and formate ion behavior under gamma radiation at several pH values: Implications on prebiotic chemistry
Authors: Paredes-Arriaga Alejandro , López-Islas Anayelly , Frias Diego , Rivera Ana Leonor , Cordero-Tercero Guadalupe , Ramos-Bernal Sergio , Negrón-Mendoza Alicia
Published: December 2024

Formic acid is consistently produced and detected in prebiotic chemistry experiments, constituting a precursor of many carboxylic acids and amino acids. Its behavior with exposure to gamma radiation varies with the pH and solution concentration. This work aimed to model different environmental conditions for formic acid under ionizing radiation using a system of coupled differential equations based on chemical kinetics. An ensemble of radiolysis reaction mechanisms was generated for formic acid at pH 1.5 and formate ion at pH 9, both with radiation doses from 0 to 2 kGy. This was also done for systems with both species in equilibrium, using high molar concentrations, long irradiation times, and large irradiation doses (from 0 to 70 kGy). The results show that these systems can be modeled with a high statistical relationship between the computed solutions and the experimental data; furthermore, the synthesis and degradation of the radiolysis products can be followed. Another dimension of the issue of prebiotic environments was explored using ionizing radiation and analyzing the reactions at various pH values (acidic to basic media). These models allow one to gain insights into the behavior of molecules that are difficult to detect or analyze in the laboratory. Additionally, they offer the possibility of studying potential prebiotic environments.
Deep generative abnormal lesion emphasization validated by nine radiologists and 1000 chest X-rays with lung nodules
Authors: Hanaoka Shouhei , Nomura Yukihiro , Hayashi Naoto , Sato Issei , Miki Soichiro , Yoshikawa Takeharu , Shibata Hisaichi , Nakao Takahiro , Takenaga Tomomi , Koyama Hiroaki , Cho Shinichi , Kanemaru Noriko , Fujimoto Kotaro , Sakamoto Naoya , Nishiyama Tomoya , Matsuzaki Hirotaka , Yamamichi Nobutake , Abe Osamu
Published: December 2024

A general-purpose method of emphasizing abnormal lesions in chest radiographs, named EGGPALE (Extrapolative, Generative and General-Purpose Abnormal Lesion Emphasizer), is presented. The proposed EGGPALE method is composed of a flow-based generative model and L-infinity-distance-based extrapolation in a latent space. The flow-based model is trained using only normal chest radiographs, and an invertible mapping function from the image space to the latent space is determined. In the latent space, a given unseen image is extrapolated so that the image point moves away from the normal chest X-ray hyperplane. Finally, the moved point is mapped back to the image space and the corresponding emphasized image is created. The proposed method was evaluated by an image interpretation experiment with nine radiologists and 1,000 chest radiographs, of which positive suspected lung cancer cases and negative cases were validated by computed tomography examinations. The sensitivity of EGGPALE-processed images showed +0.0559 average improvement compared with that of the original images, with -0.0192 deterioration of average specificity. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the ensemble of nine radiologists showed a statistically significant improvement. From these results, the feasibility of EGGPALE for enhancing abnormal lesions was validated. Our code is available at https://github.com/utrad-ical/Eggpale.
A Christian Narrative
Authors: López Angelini Martín Ricardo
Published: December 2024

The present article explores the Jesuit interpretation of the Confucian concept of “tian” 天 (usually rendered as “heaven”) and “tianming” 天命 (“mandate of heaven”) within a few passages from the first Western translation of the Lunyu 論語 (Analects) to Latin (1687). Thus, it examines how Jesuit missionaries, driven by the goal of evangelization, sought to reconcile Confucius’ philosophy with Christianity. This not only implied interpreting terms such as “tian” or “tianming” through a Christian’s perspective but also commenting on the original text and adding content to it so as to portray Confucius as a proto-Christian. By using an orientalist framework, this article will analyze the construction of a “Christo-Confucianism”; a phenomenon that could be understood as a natural product of the particular material and theological conditions to which the Jesuit Order had to adapt in China.
Midiatização religiosa e estratégias eleitorais
Authors: Barba Marcela , Massuchin Michele
Published: December 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo verificar de que forma se estabelece a relação entre comunicação e religião dentro das disputas eleitorais. A hipótese é que os dispositivos comunicacionais são operacionalizados de forma a contemplar a expertise de candidatos religiosos em comparação aos demais, além de reforçarem o atravessamento eclesiástico na corrida eleitoral. Para tanto, analisa-se quatro variáveis: formato dos conteúdos, tipos de vídeos, personalidades referenciadas e cenários presentes nos materiais visuais e audiovisuais. O estudo se concentra nos candidatos a prefeito nas eleições de 2020, cujos nomes de urna incluem o termo “pastor”. Adiciona-se à pesquisa a comparação de conteúdos veiculados por candidatos sem a apresentação de alcunha religiosa. Por conseguinte, é realizada a análise de conteúdo de 5035 posts veiculados durante o período eleitoral de 2020. Os resultados indicam similaridades em determinadas categorias, mas salientam distinções significativas em todas as variáveis analisadas.
A Ciência Política no Brasil e o Pensamento Político de Wanderley Guilherme dos Santos
Authors: Sevaybricker Moreira Marcelo
Published: December 2024

Muitos estudos sobre a institucionalização da moderna Ciência Política brasileira, ocorrida a partir do final dos anos de 1960, tem enfatizado que a primeira geração de cientistas políticos, após terem completado sua formação acadêmica nas universidades estadunidenses, teriam ignorado e buscado romper o pensamento político nacional do passado, chamado de a “Velha Ciência Política”. Este artigo busca problematizar e complexificar esse diagnóstico a partir da análise da trajetória intelectual e da obra de um dos “pais-fundadores” da nova Ciência Política brasileira, Wanderley Guilherme dos Santos, um dos principais expoentes desta geração e fundador de importantes instituições, teorias e conceitos nessa área de conhecimento. Neste sentido, este artigo defende que, embora certas rupturas sejam observáveis, é igualmente fundamental considerar muitas continuidades entre a “velha” e a “nova” Ciência Política brasileira.