bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamification in Biomedical Science Education: The Successful Implementation of Resimion, a Scenario-Based Learning Tool
Authors: May Jennifer E. , Anderson Elizabeth , Clark Dan , Hull Jonathon
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Scenario-based learning and gamification have many advantages in comparison to traditional didactic teaching methods, including development of many higher-level skills such as analysis and evaluation. It is hoped that these simulations provide a real-world experience in a format accessible to students. Integration of these tools into teaching excelled during the COVID-19 pandemic, an event that completely changed education and initiated the greatest advancement in digital learning to date. We discuss our experiences using Resimion, a novel scenario-based learning tool that was adapted to biomedical science, both for teaching and assessment.

Methods: Our cohort included 769 students studying BSc(Hons) Biomedical Science at the University of the West of England from 2020 to 2023. Data was obtained from assessments within four different modules, two at FHEQ level 5 and two at level 6. Students were grouped based on reasonable adjustment (RA) status, including physical issues, specific learning differences and neurodiversity, with differences between student groups and assessment types analysed by ANOVA.

Results: Data clearly demonstrate good engagement from students utilising Resimion software, representing 18,436 student interactions in total, across both assessed and non-assessed activities. RAs of any type did not alter submission rates (p = 0.53) or student outcome in any of the assessment types analysed. However, submission rates for Resimion assessments were notably higher than for other assessment types (p = 0.002). Whist outcomes were not significantly different, students with RAs did take significantly longer to complete the Haematology and Transfusion assessments (p = 0.0012). Specifically, neurodiverse students and those with specific learning differences used on average 81% of their allocated time, students with other RAs used 76%, whereas students without RAs used just 56% (p ≤ 0.0001), highlighting the appropriate adjustment of extra time provided for these students. It was further observed that 1.3% of Resimion activities undertaken by students utilised the in-built inclusivity features in the software. Both students with known RAs, and those without, utilised these features, therefore also aiding students without a formal diagnosis.

Conclusion: The scenario-based learning tool Resimion was successfully integrated into the teaching of biomedical science and provided an engaging platform for students, with comparable results to other traditional assessment types.
Immune signatures predicting the clinical outcome of peanut oral immunotherapy: where we stand
Authors: Wanniang Naphisabet , Boehm Theresa-Maria , Codreanu-Morel Françoise , Divaret-Chauveau Amandine , Assugeni Isabela , Hilger Christiane , Kuehn Annette
Published: October 2023

Peanut allergy is a growing health concern that can cause mild to severe anaphylaxis as well as reduced quality of life in patients and their families. Oral immunotherapy is an important therapeutic intervention that aims to reshape the immune system toward a higher threshold dose reactivity and sustained unresponsiveness in some patients. From an immunological point of view, young patients, especially those under 3 years old, seem to have the best chance for therapy success. To date, surrogate markers for therapy duration and response are evasive. We provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature state regarding immune signatures evolving over the course of oral immunotherapy as well as baseline immune conditions prior to the initiation of treatment. Although research comparing clinical and immune traits in the first years of life vs. later stages across different age groups is limited, promising insights are available on immunological endotypes among peanut-allergic patients. The available data call for continued research to fill in gaps in knowledge, possibly in an integrated manner, to design novel precision health approaches for advanced therapeutic interventions in peanut allergy.
Horizontal-to-tilt irradiance conversion for high-latitude regions: a review and meta-analysis
Authors: Manni Mattia , Thorning Jacowb Krum , Jouttijärvi Sami , Miettunen Kati , Di Sabatino Marisa , Lobaccaro Gabriele
Published: September 2023

This review focuses on the solar irradiance model chain for horizontal-to-tilted irradiance conversion at high latitudes. The main goals of the work are 1) to assess the extent to which the literature accounts for decomposition and transposition models specifically developed for high-latitude application; 2) to evaluate existing validation studies for these particular conditions; 3) to identify research gaps in the optimal solar irradiance model chain for high-latitude application (i.e., latitude ≥60°). In total, 112 publications are reviewed according to their publication year, country, climate, method, and keywords: 78 publications deal with decomposition models and 34 deal with transposition models. Only a few models (6) have been parameterized using data from Nordic countries. Here, we compare 57 decomposition models in terms of their performance in Nordic climate zones and analyze the geographical distribution of the data used to parametrize these models. By comparing the Normalized Root Mean Square Deviation coefficients for direct normal irradiation, the decomposition models Skartveit1 and Mondol1 are most effective on one-hour scale and Yang4 on one-minute scale. Recent studies on the empirical transposition models estimating the global tilted irradiation on vertical surfaces show the best performance for Perez4 and Muneer models. In addition, innovative methods such as artificial neural networks have been identified to further enhance the model chain. This review reveals that a validated model chain for estimating global tilted irradiation at high latitudes is missing from the literature. Moreover, there is a need for a universal validation protocol to ease the comparison of different studies.
Application of plastic conjugated materials in the repair of sports injury
Authors: Li Peng , Zhou Jihe
Published: October 2023

For professional athletes or fitness crowd who often participate in sports, sports injury are more common. However, the traditional repair materials for sports injury have many problems, such as long recovery period and poor repair effect. In recent years, many studies have found that conjugated materials have good stability, small side effects and other excellent characteristics, and conjugated materials are used in sports injury repair materials. In order to study the repair effect of conjugated materials on sports injury tissues, this paper prepared nitrogen porphyrin conjugated organic skeleton materials with pyrrole and p-benzaldehyde as substrates, used chemical synthesis and selective laser sintering technology to form plastic conjugated scaffold materials with polyvinyl alcohol, polylactide and conjugated materials, and established mechanical properties and constitutive formula to evaluate the performance characteristics of repair materials. In order to test the effect of plastic conjugated materials on sports injury, experiments were carried out from the aspects of degradability, mechanical properties of repair materials, repair effect of radius defect and new bone formation area. Experimental data: The proportion of newly formed bone area at weeks 3, 6, and 9 using this method was 32%, 52%, and 68%, while the proportion of newly formed bone area at weeks 3, 6, and 9 using traditional methods was 12%, 18%, and 23%, indicating that this method had better bone repair effects than traditional methods. The research in this paper provided a new idea for the application of plastic conjugated materials in the field of sports medicine.
Effects of traditional Chinese exercises on cardiac rehabilitation in patients with myocardial infarction: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang Jingfang , Weng Jieqiong , Yuan Mengfei , Shen Xingchen , Weng Yayi , Shen Xiaoxu
Published: October 2023

Objective

Traditional Chinese exercises (TCE) are excellent cardiac rehabilitation (CR) training that can effectively improve cardiorespiratory fitness. However, there is no published meta-analysis of TCE on CR in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). Therefore, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation from multiple perspectives.

Methods

This meta-analysis is based on the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews. Eight databases were searched from the date of database construction to March 15, 2023. Two investigators independently screened the literature and assessed their quality. The meta-analysis was performed with RevMan5.4 software.

Results

A total of 21 articles involving 1,890 patients were included. N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in the TCE group were lower than the control group (MD = −96.34, 95%CI: −140.69 ∼−51.98, P < 0.00001, I2 = 96%), the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in the TCE group was higher than the control group (MD = 4.58, 95%CI: 3.28–5.88, P < 0.00001, I2 = 79%), the left ventricular end diastolic dimension (LVDD) in TCE group was lower than the control group (MD = −3.83, 95%CI: −5.27 ∼−2.38, P < 0.00001, I2 = 94%), the left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESD) in TCE group was lower than the control group (MD = −2.17, 95%CI: −4.10 ∼−0.24, P < 0.00001, I2 = 96%), The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) in the TCE group was higher than the control group (MD = 69.60, 95%CI: 34.59–104.60, P < 0.00001, I2 = 99%), the oxygen uptake (VO2) in the TCE group was higher than the control group (MD = 4.38, 95%CI: 2.25–6.51, P < 0.00001, I2 = 94%), the 36-item short form survey (SF-36) in the TCE group was higher than the control group (MD = 13.34, 95%CI: 9.25–17.42, P = 0.008, I2 = 75%), the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) in the TCE group was lower than the control group (MD = −4.34, 95%CI: −5.18 ∼−3.50, P = 1.00, I2 = 0%), the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) in the TCE group was lower than the control group (MD = −3.48, 95%CI: −5.35 ∼−1.61, P = 0.0002, I2 = 88%), the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) in the TCE group was lower than the control group (RR = 0.31, 95%CI: 0.20–0.47, P = 0.52, I2 = 0%). Subgroup analysis revealed differences in TCE types could be a potential source of heterogeneity.

Conclusion

MI patients who used TCE have not only notable improvements in cardiopulmonary function, physical function, quality of life, and emotions but also reduced the incidence of MACEs. Tai Chi might be more efficient than Ba Duan Jin.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42023408675.
Risk factors for major adverse cardiovascular events after coronary artery bypass grafting using radial artery grafts
Authors: Xia Tianyu , Li Bo , Zhang Wei , Wang Zhe , Ye Xiaofeng , Zhou Mi , Li Haiqing , Qiu Jiapei , Zhu Yunpeng , Zhao Qiang
Published: September 2023

Background

Coronary artery bypass grafting using radial artery grafts (RA-CABG) has improved long-term outcomes. However, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE-4, including all-cause death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and repeat revascularization) after RA-CABG still occur and the predictors remain uncertain. This study aimed to detect independent risk factors of MACE-4 after RA-CABG.

Methods

This is a retrospective case-control study (NCT04935086) conducted among patients who underwent primary isolated RA-CABG between 2009 and 2019 in our center. Baseline characteristics, procedure characteristics, and medication use were compared to identify the independent predictors of MACE-4, all-cause death, and myocardial infarction (MI) with univariate and then multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 370 patients were analyzed using a mean follow-up duration of 48.8 ± 41.0 months. MACE-4, all-cause death, and MI occurred in 102 (27.6%), 27 (7.3%), and 66 patients (17.8%), respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed prior MI (OR = 2.12, 95%CI 1.05–4.25, P = 0.04) and RA to the left anterior descending artery (LAD) (non-left internal mammary artery to LAD) (OR = 4.87, 95%CI 1.41–16.82, P = 0.01) as independent predictors of MACE-4 after surgery. Female (OR = 4.53, 95%CI 1.06–19.41, P = 0.04), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40% (OR = 21.00, 95%CI 1.20–368.35, P = 0.04), and RA to LAD (OR = 8.55, 95%CI 1.35–54.10, P = 0.02) were independent predictors of all-cause death. Prior MI (OR = 3.11, 95%CI 1.40–6.94, P = 0.006) emerged as an independent predictor of MI.

Conclusion

Our data suggested that prior MI and RA to LAD were independent predictors of MACE-4 after RA-CABG. Being female, having an LVEF < 40% and RA to LAD indicated death. Prior MI indicated new MI.
Open science and human genetic data: recommendations on South Africa’s Draft National Open Science Policy
Authors: Thaldar Donrich , Gooden Amy , Steytler Michaela
Published: October 2023

The Draft National Open Science Policy, which was shared by the South African government with stakeholders in 2022, is an encouraging step forward as it aims to promote the practice of open science in South Africa through a system of incentives. Since South Africa is constitutionally committed to be an open and democratic society, this approach is preferable to the approach of state control that characterizes the Draft National Policy on Data and Cloud—another data-related policy initiative by the South African government. However, there is room for improvement in the Draft National Open Science Policy. In particular, it should: (a) rely on the right to freedom of scientific research to strengthen the policy; (b) rectify the omission of ownership from its policy analysis; and (c) retain a clear differentiation between human and non-human genetic data. This will ensure that the final policy is clearly anchored in the South African Constitution, and that the principle of “as open as possible, as closed as necessary” can be applied to human genetic data in a legally well informed and accountable way.
Correlation between the rate of morphological changes and rupture of intracranial aneurysms during one cardiac cycle analyzed by 4D-CTA
Authors: Wang Binghao , Shen Chengen , Su Zhongzhou , Nie Xiaohu , Zhao Jingjing , Qiu Sheng , Li Yuntao
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the rate of morphological changes and intracranial aneurysm rupture during the cardiac cycle.

Methods

Eighty-four patients with intracranial aneurysms were retrospectively analyzed and divided into the rupture (42 cases) and unruptured (42 cases) groups. Four-dimensional computed tomography angiography (4D-CTA) was performed to collect quantitative parameters of aneurysm morphology and calculate the morphological change rate. The potential factors associated with aneurysm rupture were determined by comparing the general clinical data and rate of change in the location and morphology of the aneurysm between the two groups.

Results

Each morphological change rate in the rupture group was generally higher than that of the unruptured group. The rate of dome height change and aneurysm volume change were independent factors associated with aneurysm rupture. ROC curve analysis revealed that the diagnostic accuracy of the aneurysm volume change rate was higher. When the volume change rate was 12.33%, the sensitivity and specificity of rupture were 90.5 and 55.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

The rate of change in dome height and volume of intracranial aneurysms during one cardiac cycle were independent factors associated with aneurysm rupture.
Gad1 knock-out rats exhibit abundant spike-wave discharges in EEG, exacerbated with valproate treatment
Authors: Liu Dongyu , Fujihara Kazuyuki , Yanagawa Yuchio , Mushiake Hajime , Ohshiro Tomokazu
Published: September 2023

Objective

To elucidate the functional role of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic inhibition in suppressing epileptic brain activities such as spike-wave discharge (SWD), we recorded electroencephalogram (EEG) in knockout rats for Glutamate decarboxylase 1 (Gad1), which encodes one of the two GABA-synthesizing enzymes in mammals. We also examined how anti-epileptic drug valproate (VPA) acts on the SWDs present in Gad1 rats and affects GABA synthesis in the reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN), which is known to play an essential role in suppressing SWD.

Methods

Chronic EEG recordings were performed in freely moving control rats and homozygous knockout Gad1 (–/–) rats. Buzzer tones (82 dB) were delivered to the rats during EEG monitoring to test whether acoustic stimulation could interrupt ongoing SWDs. VPA was administered orally to the rats, and the change in the number of SWDs was examined. The distribution of GABA in the RTN was examined immunohistochemically.

Results

SWDs were abundant in EEG from Gad1 (–/–) rats as young as 2 months old. Although SWDs were universally detected in older rats irrespective of their Gad1 genotype, SWD symptom was most severe in Gad1 (–/–) rats. Acoustic stimulation readily interrupted ongoing SWDs irrespective of the Gad1 genotype, whereas SWDs were more resistant to interruption in Gad1 (–/–) rats. VPA treatment alleviated SWD symptoms in control rats, however, counterintuitively exacerbated the symptoms in Gad1 (–/–) rats. The immunohistochemistry results indicated that GABA immunoreactivity was significantly reduced in the somata of RTN neurons in Gad1 (–/–) rats but not in their axons targeting the thalamus. VPA treatment greatly increased GABA immunoreactivity in the RTN neurons of Gad1 (–/–) rats, which is likely due to the intact GAD2, another GAD isozyme, in these neurons.

Discussion

Our results revealed two opposing roles of GABA in SWD generation: suppression and enhancement of SWD. To account for these contradictory roles, we propose a model in which GABA produced by GAD1 in the RTN neuronal somata is released extrasynaptically and mediates intra-RTN inhibition.
Long-term, repeated doses of intravenous autologous mesenchymal stem cells for a patient with Parkinson's disease: a case report
Authors: Vij Ridhima , Prossin Alan , Tripathy Mallika , Kim Hosu , Park Hyeonggeun , Cheng Thanh , Lotfi Djamchid , Chang Donna
Published: September 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the basal ganglia. Clinically, patient presentation involves a combination of motor and non-motor symptoms characterized by progressive worsening over time and significant decreases in overall quality-of-life. Despite there being no fully restorative cure for PD, Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) therapy offers promising therapeutic potential. Here, we report a case of a 77-year-old female, living with idiopathic Parkinson's Disease for over 17 years. The patient received multiple infusions of autologous Hope Biosciences adipose-derived MSCs (HB-adMSCs). A total of 26 infusion treatments of HB-adMSCs were administered over the course of ~2 years that resulted in marked improvements in her typical Parkinsonian symptoms, as demonstrated by the decreases in her UPDRS (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale) scores. Changes in clinical scores mirrored concurrent changes in regional brain metabolism as quantified by FDG-PET (Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography), compared to baseline. Long-term, multiple infusions of HB-adMSCs were safely tolerated by the patient without any serious adverse events. Further research is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of HB-adMSC therapy for the treatment of PD patients.
Altered neural processes underlying executive function in occupational burnout—Basis for a novel EEG biomarker
Authors: Pihlaja Mia , Peräkylä Jari , Erkkilä Emma-Helka , Tapio Emilia , Vertanen Maiju , Hartikainen Kaisa M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

As burnout has become a global pandemic, there is a call for improved understanding and detection of alterations in brain functions related to it. We have previously reported challenges in executive functions (EFs) in daily life, especially in metacognition, in subjects with occupational burnout, along with alterations in cardiac physiology. In the current study, we focused on the impact of burnout on brain physiology during a task requiring EF.

Methods

Fifty-four volunteers filled in inventories of burnout, depression, and EF in daily life (BBI-15, BDI, and BRIEF-A). Based on the BBI-15 score, subjects were divided into burnout and non-burnout groups. Subjects performed a Go/NoGo test (Executive RT test) engaging several EFs, while their EEG was recorded. The inventory scores, cognitive performance scores, and event-related potential (N2, P3) amplitudes, latencies, and interpeak latencies (IPLs) were compared between the groups.

Results

There were significant differences in the BDI and BRIEF-A scores between the groups, with more symptoms of depression and challenges in daily life in the burnout group. There were no differences in objective performance measures in the EF task between the groups. However, centroparietal P3 amplitude was larger, and while there were no differences in N2 or P3 latencies, N2-P3 IPL was longer in the Go condition in the burnout than in non-burnout group. Both ERP measures correlated significantly with burnout symptoms. A regression model from centroparietal P3 amplitude and N2-P3 IPL predicted significantly both the BBI-15 score and the BRIEF-A metacognition index.

Discussion

We conclude that burnout is linked with challenges in EF in daily life and alterations in the underlying neural processes. While cognitive performance in the task was equal, electrophysiological measures differed between the groups. Prolonged N2-P3 IPL points toward slowed transition from one cognitive process to another. Increased P3 amplitude, on the other hand, reflects increased allocation of neural processing resources. This may be a compensatory mechanism, allowing for equal performance with controls. These electrophysiological measures, obtained during the EF task, show promise as brain physiology-based biomarkers of burnout, contributing to its improved and objective detection. In addition, these results indicate occupational burnout is linked with objective alterations in brain physiology.
White matter microstructure and connectivity changes after surgery in male adults with obstructive sleep apnea: recovery or reorganization?
Authors: Chai Yaqiong , Park Hea Ree , Jo Hyunjin , Seo Min Young , Kim Hyo Yeol , Joo Eun Yeon , Kim Hosung
Published: September 2023

Study objectives

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent clinical problem significantly affecting cognitive functions. Surgical treatment is recommended for those unable to use continuous positive airway pressure. We aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of upper airway surgery on the white matter (WM) microstructure and brain connectivity in patients with OSA.

Methods

Twenty-one male patients with moderate-to-severe OSA were recruited for multi-level upper airway surgery. Overnight polysomnography (PSG), neuropsychiatric tests, and brain MRI scans were acquired before and 6.1 ± 0.8 months after surgery. Nineteen male patients with untreated OSA were also included as a reference group. We calculated the longitudinal changes of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters, including fractional anisotropy (ΔFA) and mean/axial/radial diffusivity (ΔMD/AD/RD). We also assessed changes in network properties based on graph theory.

Results

Surgically treated patients showed improvement in PSG parameters and verbal memory after surgery. Globally, ΔFA was significantly higher and ΔRD was lower in the surgery group than in the untreated group. Especially ΔFA of the tracts involved in the limbic system was higher after surgery. In network analysis, higher Δbetweenness and lower Δclustering coefficients were observed in the surgical group than in the untreated group. Finally, the improvement of verbal memory after surgery positively correlated with ΔFA in superior thalamic radiation (p = 0.021), fronto aslant tracts (p = 0.027), and forceps minor tracts (p = 0.032).

Conclusion

Surgical treatment of OSA can alleviate alterations in WM integrity and disruptions in local networks, particularly for the tracts involved in the limbic system. These findings may further explain the cognitive improvement observed after the treatment of OSA.
Relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and blood pressure among US adults without a previous diagnosis of hypertension: evidence from NHANES 2005–2018
Authors: Che Jinhang , Tong Jin , Kuang Xue , Zheng Caiyin , Zhou Ruoyu , Song Jiaqi , Zhan Xiaodan , Liu Zengzhang
Published: September 2023

Background

There are various cross-sectional studies that concluded that vitamin D is associated with blood pressure, but randomized controlled studies have not yielded consistent conclusions. Considering many limitations indeed, our study aimed to examine whether concentrations of 25(OH)D are inversely associated with blood pressure in people without a previous diagnosis of hypertension.

Method

We analyzed data from the 2005–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by applying multivariable logistic regression models. The dose–response relationship was assessed by means of restricted cubic spline regression, and stratification analyses were employed to test the consistency between the subgroups.

Results

Of 17,467 participants aged ≥ 20 years without a previous diagnosis of hypertension, 4,769 had higher blood pressure. Compared with individuals whose 25(OH)D levels were in the bottom quartile (<44.3 nnol/L), adjusting for multiple confounders, the ORs for higher blood pressure were 0.90(95%CI 0.78, 1.05), 0.85(95%CI 0.72, 0.99), and 0.86(95%CI 0.72, 1.02), respectively (P for trend = 0.096). Furthermore, as a continuous variable, 25(OH)D concentrations were non-linearly associated with an increased risk of hypertension (P < 0.001). The interaction between the sleeplessness subgroup and higher blood pressure was significant (P = 0.042).

Conclusion

In adults without a previous diagnosis of hypertension in the United States, concentrations of 25(OH)D were inversely associated with higher blood pressure when it was <84 nmol/L.
Carbohydrate confusion and dietary patterns: unintended public health consequences of “food swapping”
Authors: Ayoob Keith T.
Published: September 2023

The 2025–2030 United States Dietary Guidelines process is currently underway, and the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is examining and evaluating a list of prioritized scientific questions identified by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and the United States Department of Agriculture. One of the questions that will be evaluated is if changes should be made to USDA Dietary Patterns based on whether starchy vegetables and grains are, or can be, consumed interchangeably. These foods have historically been classified in distinct food groups. Menu modeling analyses evaluating the impact of replacing starchy vegetables with grains result in declines in key nutrients of concern. Given their unique nutrient contributions and the fact that many cultural foodways within the United States population include both starchy vegetables and grains, it is important for dietary recommendations to continue to categorize starchy vegetables and grains separately.
Definers and drivers of functional high-risk multiple myeloma: insights from genomic, transcriptomic, and immune profiling
Authors: Banerjee Rahul , Cicero Kara I. , Lee Sarah S. , Cowan Andrew J.
Published: October 2023

Traditional prognostic models for newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma (MM), including International Staging System criteria and number of high-risk chromosomal abnormalities, are based on disease characteristics at diagnosis. However, the identification of patients at risk of more rapidly progressive MM is inherently a dynamic assessment. In a subset of patients with MM, adverse disease biology only becomes evident after the failure of first-line therapy. We define this entity as functional high-risk MM (FHRMM), encompassing relapse within 18 months of treatment initiation and/or within 12 months of frontline autologous stem cell transplantation. FHRMM is not adequately captured by traditional prognostic models, and there is a need for better understanding of mechanisms or risk factors for early relapse or progression. In this review, we explore potential definitions of FHRMM before delving into its underlying drivers based on genetic, transcriptomic, and immune cell profiling studies. Emerging data suggest that specific features of both myeloma cells and immune cells can enable the FHRMM phenotype. We conclude our review by discussing ongoing and future studies that seek to identify and intervene upon patients with FHRMM preemptively.
Case Report: Gonio-endoscopy: a novel approach to minimally invasive glaucoma surgery in a glaucomatous eye
Authors: Matsushita Kenji , Kawashima Rumi , Kanazawa Noriaki , Usui Shinichi , Nishida Kohji
Published: October 2023

Background

The gonio-endoscope is a novel device for use during minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to treat glaucomatous eyes with cloudy cornea. The MIGS procedure requires a surgical gonioprism lens for direct visualization of the angle, intraoperative manipulation of the surgical microscope and the patient’s head position, and the patient’s eye without a cloudy cornea. In cases with cloudy corneas or limitation of neck movement, MIGS cannot be safely performed. Gonio-endoscopy facilitates clear visualization of the trabecular meshwork (TM) to perform MIGS safely and easily even in a patient with corneal opacities or limitation of neck movement with no additional MIGS procedures. We report the first case in which we performed the newly developed a 10,000-pixel high-resolution 23-gauge gonio-endoscopic operation.

Case presentation

The patient was a 58-year-old man with Down syndrome who had secondary glaucoma bilaterally after cataract surgery and long-time use of a steroid for atopic dermatitis and allergic conjunctivitis. His left eye had a cloudy cornea after penetrating keratoplasty for keratoconus with severe corneal residual scarring after prior resolved corneal hydrops. When the intraocular pressure (IOP) in his left eye increased to 41 mmHg despite the maximum use of anti-glaucoma eyedrops, he was referred to our hospital. Anterior-segment optical coherence tomography showed an open angle. We developed a new gonio-endoscope (MACHIDA Endoscope Co., Ltd., Chiba, Japan and NIPRO CORPORATION, Osaka, Japan), the probe of which is bent appropriately to aid visualization of and access to the TM. After obtaining clinical approval from the government and our institution, we could safely perform a high-resolution 23-gauge gonio-endoscopy-assisted microhook ab interno trabeculotomy (μLOT). The IOP decreased to 10 mmHg and the visual acuity has been preserved with no major complications for 1 year postoperatively.

Conclusion

This new technique of clear gonio-visualization using a gonio-endoscope might be helpful for a safe and easy μLOT in patients with cloudy corneas. This device can apply to other types of MIGS procedures and cases with pathological diagnoses of glaucoma that are difficult to treat.
Effects of metformin on acute respiratory distress syndrome in preclinical studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Liu , Tian Yan-Fen , Deng Wen-Qing
Published: September 2023

Introduction: In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to judge the effects of metformin on acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in a comprehensive and quantitative manner.

Methods: We included studies that tested the effects of metformin on ALI or ARDS in in vivo studies. We excluded literature from which data could not be extracted or obtained. Electronic search was conducted to retrieve relevant literature from public databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (inception to July 2023). Moreover, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, Google Scholar, and Baidu scholar were inquired. Retrieved literature was screened and evaluated by pairs of reviewers independently according to pre-stated criteria. The Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation risk of bias tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of eligible literature. No restriction was exerted on publication status or language.

Results: Fifteen preclinical studies were analyzed in this meta-analysis. Pooled results showed metformin effectively decreased pulmonary wet-to-dry weight ratios [SMD = −2.67 (−3.53 to −1.81), I2 = 56.6%], protein content [SMD = −3.74 (−6.76 to −0.72), I2 = 86.7%] and neutrophils [SMD = −3.47 (−4.69 to −2.26), I2 = 0%] in BALF, pulmonary malondialdehyde [SMD = −1.98 (−3.77 to −0.20), I2 = 74.2%] and myeloperoxidase activity [SMD = −3.15 (−4.79 to −1.52), I2 = 74.5%], lung injury scores [SMD = −4.19 (−5.65 to −2.74), I2 = 69.1%], and mortality at 24 h [RR = 0.43 (0.24–0.76), I2 = 0%] as well as 48 and 72 h.

Conclusion: Metformin inhibited pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress and improved experimental lung injury and survival rates in animal models of ARDS. Results from randomized controlled trials are needed.
The effect of family boundary flexibility on employees’ work engagement: a study based on person-environment fit theory perspective
Authors: Yang Dexiang , Liu Yakun , Zhang Huiqin , Zhang Yuxiang
Published: September 2023

Under the impact of the era of big data and public emergency, the blurring of family-work boundaries and the increasing burden of family responsibilities will pose a great challenge to employee resilience and family work balance, which in turn will affect employees’ work engagement. Therefore, based on the person-environment fit theory, this study aims to explore the potential mechanism and boundary conditions of employee family boundary flexibility fit on work engagement. This study conducted a random sampling of enterprise employees in China. A sample of 433 participants completed a questionnaire to provide data. We conduct hierarchical regression and Bootstrap analysis to verify the hypothesis model. The study found that employees’ work engagement is significantly improved when their family boundary flexibility is matched. Family-work enrichment plays a role in mediating the impact of employees’ family boundary flexibility on work engagement. The relationship between family-work enrichment and work engagement is moderated by family support. Therefore, enterprises should respect and value each employee’s family boundary flexibility, establish family-friendly policies, and consider personal family boundary flexibility in employees’ career development planning. This will promote the enhancement of employee resilience, enable better engagement in work, improve work efficiency, and enhance the core competitiveness of enterprises.
Exploring relationships between pre-service teachers’ self-efficacy for writing and instruction provided in simulated elementary writing conferences
Authors: Gillespie Rouse Amy , Young Murphy K. , Gifford Diane
Published: September 2023

Practice-based opportunities, like teaching simulations, are becoming more prevalent in teacher preparation programs. We sought to examine the instructional moves of 5 pre-service teachers during a simulated elementary writing conference using Mursion technology, a mixed-reality simulation (MRS) that emulates a classroom environment with student avatars. We examined both participants’ self-efficacy and their instructional moves during MRS writing conferences. To better understand pre-service teachers’ learning, we also examined reflections they wrote about their MRS experience. Results showed that pre-service teachers spent much of their time (31.7%) managing the environment (e.g., setting expectations, addressing student behavior) during MRS writing conferences, followed by nearly one-fourth of their time (24.2%) instructing students on their writing pieces (e.g., adding details, revising, editing), with high levels of teacher talk compared to student talk. Participants’ self-efficacy for writing, for teaching writing elements, and for writing instruction were not clearly related to their instructional moves during the MRS experience. However, participants’ reflections suggest that pre-service teachers felt the experience gave them the opportunity to practice making in-the-moment decisions and learn from their peers in a way that may allow them to have a more accurate understanding of their abilities to teach writing. Implications from these findings related to teacher self-efficacy, motivation, and teacher preparation programs are presented.
The differential roles of shame and guilt in the relationship between self-discrepancy and psychological maladjustment
Authors: Oh Hyunjoo , Lee Dong-gwi , Cho Hunggu
Published: September 2023

The self-discrepancy theory proposes that having inconsistent self-representations can trigger feelings of shame and guilt, leading to experiences of depression and anxiety. The aim of this study was to determine the distinct characteristics of each shame and guilt in relation to the connection between actual/ideal self-discrepancy and depression, as well as actual/ought self-discrepancy and anxiety. A total of 403 participants completed an online questionnaire assessing their self-discrepancy, shame, guilt, depression, and anxiety. Correlational analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis were used to assess the goodness of fit of the proposed model and the structural relationships between the variables. The key findings were as follows: (1) There were positive correlations among actual/ideal self-discrepancy, actual/ought self-discrepancy, shame, guilt, depression, and anxiety; (2) Shame partially mediated the association between actual/ideal self-discrepancy and depression; and (3) Guilt fully mediated the association between actual/ought self-discrepancy and anxiety. These outcomes uphold the self-discrepancy theory by confirming a distinct intra-psychological process involving shame and guilt. Each type of self-discrepancy was related to experiences of depression and anxiety. Our data suggest that researchers and practitioners should prioritize shame and guilt when examining individuals’ self-discrepancy and related mental health challenges.
Mediating effect of social interaction anxiety between emotional intelligence and life satisfaction in physical education students: post-COVID-19 study
Authors: Calleja-Núñez Juan José , Granero-Gallegos Antonio , Espinoza-Gutiérrez Roberto , Baños Raúl
Published: October 2023

The aim of this research is to analyze the effect of social interaction anxiety on satisfaction with life mediated by emotional intelligence. The research design was descriptive, cross-sectional, and non-randomized. In total, 1,164 Mexican physical education students participated (Mage = 21.21; SD = 3.26; 30.0% female; 69.6% male; 0.4% other). The scales used were the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale, Trait Meta-Mood Scale and Satisfaction with Life and a structural equation analysis with latent variables was conducted. The results highlight that it can be asserted that emotional clarity and repair had a mediating effect between social interaction anxiety and satisfaction with life, as they did decrease the negative effects of social interaction anxiety on satisfaction with life. In addition, social interaction anxiety had a direct and positive effect on emotional attention and a negative effect on emotional clarity and repair.
Access to COVID-19 testing by individuals with housing insecurity during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States: a scoping review
Authors: Johannesson Jon M. , Glover William A. , Petti Cathy A. , Veldman Timothy H. , Tsalik Ephraim L. , Taylor Donald H. , Hendren Stephanie , Neighbors Coralei E. , Tillekeratne L. Gayani , Kennedy Scott W. , Harper Barrie , Kibbe Warren A. , Corbie Giselle , Cohen-Wolkowiez Michael , Woods Christopher W. , Lee Mark J.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic focused attention on healthcare disparities and inequities faced by individuals within marginalized and structurally disadvantaged groups in the United States. These individuals bore the heaviest burden across this pandemic as they faced increased risk of infection and difficulty in accessing testing and medical care. Individuals experiencing housing insecurity are a particularly vulnerable population given the additional barriers they face. In this scoping review, we identify some of the barriers this high-risk group experienced during the early days of the pandemic and assess novel solutions to overcome these barriers.

Methods

A scoping review was performed following PRISMA-Sc guidelines looking for studies focusing on COVID-19 testing among individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Barriers as well as solutions to barriers were identified as applicable and summarized using qualitative methods, highlighting particular ways that proved effective in facilitating access to testing access and delivery.

Results

Ultimately, 42 studies were included in the scoping review, with 143 barriers grouped into four categories: lack of cultural understanding, systemic racism, and stigma; medical care cost, insurance, and logistics; immigration policies, language, and fear of deportation; and other. Out of these 42 studies, 30 of these studies also suggested solutions to address them.

Conclusion

A paucity of studies have analyzed COVID-19 testing barriers among those experiencing housing insecurity, and this is even more pronounced in terms of solutions to address those barriers. Expanding resources and supporting investigators within this space is necessary to ensure equitable healthcare delivery.
Healthy lifestyle counseling, and barriers perceived by general practitioners in Poland
Authors: Znyk Małgorzata , Kaleta Dorota
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The aim of the study was to determine the influence of the personal factors, such as body mass index (BMI), of general practitioners (GPs), and their counseling on weight management, healthy lifestyle, and their perceived barriers.

Materials and methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2021 among 161 GPs in the city of Lodz.

Results

Only 3.7% of physicians always advised their patients on diet and physical activity (p < 0.05). Most of the GPs (54%) provide counseling occasionally. GPs gave general advice more often to patients with chronic diseases than to patients who did not. The study showed that the chance of providing advice on eating habits or physical activity was significantly higher for the GPs who practiced physical activity (OR = 2.64; 95%Cl: 1.01–6.91, p < 0.05) and measured patient weight, height, and BMI (OR = 4.86; 95%Cl: 1.86–12.67, p < 0.001). GPs who were overweight (OR = 3.55; 95%Cl: 1.49–8.41, p < 0.01) and measured patient weight, height, and BMI (OR = 3.61; 95%Cl: 1.58–8.25, p < 0.01) were more likely to advise on nutrition or physical activity to “healthy” patients. Doctors who measured patient weight, height, and BMI advised patients with chronic diseases (OR = 6.45; 95%Cl: 2.54–16.34, p < 0.001). Over 40% of GPs believe that they are not effective in counseling. Lack of time turned out to be the main barrier to counseling for 73.3% of GPs, which was associated with heavy workload (>100 visits per week).

Conclusion

As many GPs doubt their effectiveness, it is recommended that GPs attend more training activities regarding counseling. In addition, organizational changes are needed to reduce patient numbers, and financial incentives are needed to improve counseling and patient measurement.
Distributed control for geometric pattern formation of large-scale multirobot systems
Authors: Giusti Andrea , Maffettone Gian Carlo , Fiore Davide , Coraggio Marco , di Bernardo Mario
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Geometric pattern formation is crucial in many tasks involving large-scale multi-agent systems. Examples include mobile agents performing surveillance, swarms of drones or robots, and smart transportation systems. Currently, most control strategies proposed to achieve pattern formation in network systems either show good performance but require expensive sensors and communication devices, or have lesser sensor requirements but behave more poorly.

Methods and result: In this paper, we provide a distributed displacement-based control law that allows large groups of agents to achieve triangular and square lattices, with low sensor requirements and without needing communication between the agents. Also, a simple, yet powerful, adaptation law is proposed to automatically tune the control gains in order to reduce the design effort, while improving robustness and flexibility.

Results: We show the validity and robustness of our approach via numerical simulations and experiments, comparing it, where possible, with other approaches from the existing literature.
Emergency regional food supply chain design and its labor demand forecasting model: application to COVID-19 pandemic disruption
Authors: Tian Shuang , Mei Yi
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted the global food supply chain through various interventions, such as city closures, traffic restrictions, and silent management. Limited research has been conducted on the design of emergency regional food supply chains (ERFSC) and its labor demand forecasting under government-mandated interventions. This paper applies emergency supply chain management theory to analyze the business processes of the ERFSC and proposes a multi-level ERFSC network tailored to different risk levels. Additionally, a food demand forecasting model and a mathematical model for stochastic labor demand planning are constructed based on the development trend of regional epidemics. An empirical analysis is presented using Huaguoyuan, Guiyang, China, as an example. The results demonstrate that the proposed ERFSC design and its labor demand forecasting model can achieve secure supply and accurate distribution of necessities in regions with different risk levels. These findings have important policy and research implications for the government and practitioners to take interventions and actions to ensure food supply for residents in the context of city closure or silent management. This study serves as a pilot study that will be further extended by the authors from geographical and policy perspectives.