bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Centering and uplifting youth voice in planning for a more resilient climate future in rural Colorado: a case study of a student resilience team asking for change
Authors: Schloesser Katya , Davis Ravi , Ruffin Taylor , Gold Anne U. , Christensen Alicia , Littrell Megan K. , Boyd Kathryn J.
Published: October 2024

Rural communities are increasingly facing challenges from climate-related natural hazards such as drought, wildfire, and flood. These cascading hazards threaten social, emotional, physical, and economic well-being, and pose unique challenges to rural areas which may already struggle to find enough resources. Yet, rural areas are rich in social capital, creativity, and resilience, and future leaders are learning how to build agency and increase their community’s resilience in school settings. Students in Estes Park, Colorado, have experienced major climate-fueled hazards in their lifetimes, surviving the floods in 2013 and the East Troublesome and Cameron Peak wildfires in 2020. At Estes Park Middle School, the Environmental Resilience Team (ERT) is an afterschool group of students who are actively participating in promoting public awareness, mitigation, and policy-making to increase resilience to natural hazards. Supported by the Hazard, Education, Awareness, and Resilience Task Force (HEART Force) Program, a comprehensive curriculum that immerses students in the study of their community’s resilience to floods and fires, in conjunction with the Earth Force Environmental Civic Action resources, students and educators gained the tools needed to spearhead community discussions on resilience, all while striving to mitigate and minimize future risks. In this paper, we tell the story of the Environmental Resilience Team’s campaign to pass statewide legislation to implement Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Building Codes in high-risk areas. Students visited the Colorado State Capitol, met with their State Senator and Governor to lobby for the passage of the bill. This initiative builds upon years of action projects, including service projects to mitigate fire risk in vulnerable populations within the mountain town of Estes Park and build community education and awareness through the distribution of “go-bags” to community members. By including youth voice in public decision-making and planning for climate resilience, community leaders and policymakers can develop more holistic plans that include multigenerational input. This research is part of a broader study across implementations of HEART Force in several classrooms that showed that the HEART Force program helped students develop a sense of agency and grow in their understanding of community resilience.
Spatial variability of near-surface ground temperatures in a discontinuous permafrost area in Mongolia
Authors: Temuujin Khurelbaatar , Dashtseren Avirmed , Etzelmüller Bernd , Undrakhtsetseg Tsogtbaatar , Aalstad Kristoffer , Westermann Sebastian
Published: October 2024

In Central Asia, the ground thermal regime is strongly affected by the interplay between topographic factors and ecosystem properties. In this study, we investigate the governing factors of the ground thermal regime in an area in Central Mongolia, which features discontinuous permafrost and is characterized by grassland and forest ecosystems. Miniature temperature dataloggers were used to measure near-surface temperatures at c. 100 locations throughout the 6 km2 large study area, with the goal to obtain a sample of sites that can represent the variability of different topographic and ecosystem properties. Mean annual near-surface ground temperatures showed a strong variability, with differences of up to 8 K. The coldest sites were all located in forests on north-facing slopes, while the warmest sites are located on steep south-facing slopes with sparse steppe vegetation. Sites in forests show generally colder near-surface temperatures in spring, summer and fall compared to grassland sites, but they are warmer during the winter season. The altitude of the measurement sites did not play a significant role in determining the near-surface temperatures, while especially solar radiation was highly correlated. In addition, we investigated the suitability of different hyperspectral indices calculated from Sentinel-2 as predictors for annual average near-surface ground temperatures. We found that especially indices sensitive to vegetation properties, such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), show a strong correlation. The presented observations provide baseline data on the spatiotemporal patterns of the ground thermal regime which can be used to train or validate modelling and remote sensing approaches targeting the impacts of climate change.
Study on the coupled hydro-mechanical model of gas-induced dilation effects in bentonite
Authors: Guo Jingna , Zhang Qi , Li Qiang , Li Meng , Chen Zhanqing , Chen Jiayi , Tang Zhiqiang
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Gas migration in low-permeability buffer materials is a crucial aspect of nuclear waste disposal. This study focuses on Gaomiaozi bentonite to investigate its behavior under various conditions.

Methods

We developed a coupled hydro-mechanical model that incorporates damage mechanisms in bentonite under flexible boundary conditions. Utilizing the elastic theory of porous media, gas pressure was integrated into the soil's constitutive equation. The model accounted for damage effects on the elastic modulus and permeability, with damage variables defined by the Galileo and Coulomb–Mohr criteria. We conducted numerical simulations of the seepage and stress fields using COMSOL and MATLAB. Gas breakthrough tests were also performed on bentonite samples under controlled conditions.

Results

The permeability obtained from gas breakthrough tests and numerical simulations was within a 10% error margin. The experimentally measured gas breakthrough pressure aligned closely with the predicted values, validating the model's applicability.

Discussion

Analysis revealed that increased dry density under flexible boundaries reduced the damage area and influenced gas breakthrough pressure. Specifically, at dry densities of 1.4 g/cm³, 1.6 g/cm³, and 1.7 g/cm³, the corresponding gas breakthrough pressures were 5.0 MPa, 6.0 MPa, and 6.5 MPa, respectively. At a dry density of 1.8 g/cm³ and an injection pressure of 10.0 MPa, no continuous seepage channels formed, indicating no gas breakthrough. This phenomenon is attributed to the greater tensile and compressive strengths associated with higher dry densities, which render the material less susceptible to damage from external forces.
Factors affecting professional identity formation of basic medical sciences teachers in Pakistan: a phenomenological analysis of interviews
Authors: Kiran Faiza , Javaid Arshad , Irum Shazia , Zahoor Asiya , Farooq Fareeha
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Teachers can perceive themselves as a true teacher and act as one only if they have a strong professional identity. This study aimed to identify factors that shape the unique professional identity of basic medical sciences teachers in Pakistan.

Methods

A qualitative study was performed using the concepts of phenomenology and purposive sampling. A 20-item text-based interview was conducted by sharing a Google Form link with basic medical sciences teachers from select institutions. Iterative data collection and analysis were performed until data saturation was attained.

Results

A total of 40 participants took part in the study. Nine categories were identified and grouped into two major themes: four personal and five environmental factors. Personal factors included characteristics, preferences, religious values, and professional development. Environmental factors included community of practice, students' feedback, administrative support, work environment, and societal apathy. Among these factors, aptitude, family preference or work-life balance, hard work, dedication, and effect on parenting were more evident in women. By contrast, passion, experience, complacency, and unique identity were the prominent factors.

Discussion

Community of practice [31 (77%)], passion for teaching [21 (52%)], students' feedback [18 (45%)], work-life balance [16 (40%)], and religious values [13 (32%)] were the primary positive contributors to the identity of basic medical sciences teachers. By contrast, poor administrative support [8 (20%)], negative work environment [11 (27%)], job dissatisfaction [7 (17%)], societal apathy [4 (10%)], and lack of opportunities for professional growth [6 (15%)] negatively impact the professional identity of basic medical sciences teachers.
Systematic observation to measure teaching quality in different contexts: insights from science lessons, physical education lessons, and sports training using the classroom assessment scoring system
Authors: Kohake Kathrin
Published: October 2024

There is substantial evidence that the quality of classroom interactions is crucial for students’ academic and social development. Both subject-specific and generic systematic observation instruments are widely used to assess these interactions. A notable example of a generic observation protocol based on US classroom research is the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS). This study aims to evaluate the applicability of the CLASS framework for assessing teaching quality in various contexts in Germany, specifically in science classes, physical education classes, and sports training at the elementary school level. In total, 110 video-recorded observation cycles, each lasting 15–20 min, were double-coded by two independent observers. Assessments were conducted across 10 dimensions using a 7-point scale. Results indicate average scores for the dimensions within the Emotional Support domain in the medium to high range, within the Classroom Organization domain in the high range, and within the Instructional Support domain in the low to medium range. CLASS scores varied considerably across different settings, effectively distinguishing between the observed teachers and coaches. The Percentage-Within-One agreement values and Intra-Class-Correlations demonstrate good interrater reliability across all settings. These findings highlight the robustness of the CLASS framework and its transferability to various educational contexts in Germany. This adaptability facilitates future studies on predictive validity and enables cross-country comparisons.
Immunomodulatory effect of bovine lactoferrin during SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Silva Andrea Marques Vieira da , Machado Thiago Lazari , Nascimento Ryann de Souza , Rodrigues Miguel Pires Medeiros Diniz , Coelho Felipe Soares , Tubarão Luciana Neves , da Rosa Lorenna Carvalho , Bayma Camilla , Rocha Vanessa Pimenta , Frederico Ana Beatriz Teixeira , Silva Jane , Cunha Danielle Regina de Almeida de Brito e , de Souza Alessandro Fonseca , Souza Raphaela Barbosa Gonçalves de , Barros Caroline Augusto , Fiscina Danielle da Silva , Ribeiro Luiz Claudio Pereira , de Carvalho Carlos Alberto Marques , da Silva Bruno Jorge Duque , Muller Rodrigo , Azamor Tamiris , Melgaço Juliana Gil , Gonçalves Rafael Braga , Ano Bom Ana Paula Dinis
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Lactoferrin (Lf) is an important immunomodulator in infections caused by different agents. During SARS-CoV-2 infection, Lf can hinder or prevent virus access to the intracellular environment. Severe cases of COVID-19 are related to increased production of cytokines, accompanied by a weak type 1 interferon response.

Methods

We investigated the influence of bovine Lf (bLf) in the immune response during SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro and in vivo assays.

Results

Our results show a strong binding between bLf and TLR4/NF-κB in silico, as well as an increase in mRNA expression of these genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) treated with bLf. Furthermore, the treatment increased TLR4/TLR9 mRNA expression in infected K18-hACE2 mouse blood, indicating an activation of innate response. Our results show that, when bLf was added, a reduction in the NK cell population was found, presenting a similar effect on PD-1 in TCD4+ and TCD8+ cells. In the culture supernatant of PBMCs from healthy participants, bLf decreased IL-6 levels and increased CCL5 in COVID-19 participants. In addition, K18-hACE2 mice infected and treated with bLf presented an increase of serum pro-inflammatory markers (GM-CSF/IL-1β/IL-2) and upregulated mRNA expression of IL1B and IL6 in the lung tissue. Furthermore, bLf treatment was able to restore FTH1 levels in brain tissue.

Discussion

The data indicate that bLf can be part of a therapeutic strategy to promote the immunomodulation effect, leading to homeostasis during COVID-19.
In silico and pharmacological evaluation of GPR65 as a cancer immunotherapy target regulating T-cell functions
Authors: Li Shamin , Melchiore Fabien , Kantari-Mimoun Chahrazade , Mouton Aurore , Knockaert Samantha , Philippon Wendy , Chanrion Benjamin , Bourgeois Christophe , Lefebvre Céline , Elhmouzi-Younes Jamila , Blanc Véronique , Ramon Olayo Fernando , Laugel Bruno
Published: October 2024

The success of cancer immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cells and immune cell engagers have provided clinicians with tools to bypass some of the limitations of cancer immunity. However, numerous tumour factors curtail the immune response against cancer and limit the efficiency of immuno-oncology (IO) therapies. Acidification of the extra-cellular tumour environment consecutive to aberrant cancer cell metabolism is a well-known promoter of oncogenic processes that also acts as an immune regulator. Yet, the suppressive mechanisms of low extra-cellular pH on anti-cancer immunity remain poorly understood. Recent reports have suggested that GPR65, a Gαs-coupled proton-sensing GPCR broadly expressed in the immune system, may act as an immune suppressant detrimental to anti-tumour immunity. So far, the immuno-regulatory properties of GPR65 in acidic milieux have mostly been documented in macrophages and myeloid cells. Our computational evaluation of GPR65’s transcriptomic expression profile and potential as an IO target using public datasets prompted us to further investigate its functions in human T-cells. To this end, we identified and validated GPR65 small molecule inhibitors active in in vitro cellular assays and we showed that GPR65 inhibition promoted the killing capacity of antigen-specific human T-cells. Our results broaden the scope of GPR65 as an IO target by suggesting that its inhibition may enhance T-cell anti-tumour activity and provide useful pharmacological tools to further investigate the therapeutic potential of GPR65 inhibition.
Establishment of OBT/TFWT dataset in seafood in Zhejiang province, China
Authors: Gong Xinyu , Huang Wengzhe , Cao Yiyao , Ma Xiaoxiang , Zhou Lei , Wang Peng , Ren Hong
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This work aims to establish a dataset of ratios between tissue free water tritium (TFWT) and organically bound tritium (OBT) (containing both exchangeable and non-exchangeable OBT) in different types of seafood from Zhejiang province, China, thus to provide references for rapid screening of potential contamination of tritium in biological samples.

Methods

Five types of seafood (fish, prawn, mussel, crab and kelp) were collected from Jiaxing, Ningbo, Zhoushan, Taizhou and Wenzhou city in Zhejiang Province in 2022, and measured for TFWT and OBT using tube furnace combustion system and liquid scintillation counting.

Results

The observed activity concentrations of TFWT and OBT in this study were within the range of 1.01-10.09 Bq/L and 0.51-7.61 Bq/L, respectively. No significant difference in OBT/TFWT ratio was observed among different types of seafood (p > 0.05), among the geographic distribution of the five cities (p > 0.05), nor among the area of coastline, fishing ground and island (p > 0.05). Additionally, there was no significant difference in the OBT/TFWT ratio between seafood from area with and without nuclear power plant operation (p > 0.05). The mean OBT/TFWT ratio of fish, prawn, mussel, crab and kelp was 0.37 ± 0.19, 0.48 ± 0.27, 0.63 ± 0.33, 0.82 ± 0.50, and 0.64 ± 0.37, respectively. The mean and range of OBT/TFWT ratios were 0.59 ± 0.37 and 0.15-2.09 in all seafood collected from the five cities in Zhejiang Province, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that tritium in seafood from coastal cities in Zhejiang Province is at the background level, and the operation of nuclear power plants in the province has no notable impact on the radioactivity levels of tritium in local marine biota. This study filled the gap in OBT/TFWT ratios in seafood, which provides new dataset for rapid detection of tritium contamination in nuclear emergencies.
Mitigation of end zone cracks in precast prestressed concrete girders using shape memory alloys
Authors: Sun C. Shawn , Babarinde Oluwatobi , Kuruppuarachchi Dinesha , Farzana Nahid
Published: October 2024

Precast prestressed concrete girders are widely used in U.S. bridge construction. With advancements in high-performance concrete and new girder designs, these girders are now capable of achieving significantly longer spans. Such spans often require deeper girders and an increased number of prestressing strands. The resulting bursting forces at the girder ends at time of prestress release may cause end zone cracking, especially horizontal web cracks, which can compromise the durability of the girders and potentially lead to rejection by bridge owners. Current practices focus on mitigating these cracks by providing adequate end zone reinforcement, but completely eliminating them remains a challenge, as girders are typically prestressed along their length only. This paper proposes an innovative approach to combat end zone cracking through the application of vertical prestressing at the girder ends using shape memory alloys (SMAs). This method involves heating prestrained SMAs at the beam ends to induce recovery stress, thus generating vertical prestress that enhances splitting resistance and reduces web cracking. The research employed a variety of NiTi SMA reinforcement, including wires, strands, and cables, demonstrating the feasibility of this method through both small-scale and full-scale beam tests. The beam tests demonstrated the shape memory effects of SMAs and the impact of induced prestressing. The findings suggest that properly designed vertical prestress can effectively counteract bursting forces and mitigate concrete cracking.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between ABCA7 common variants and Alzheimer’s disease in non-Hispanic White and Asian cohorts
Authors: Liu Da , Zhang Hongwei , Liu Cao , Liu Jianyu , Liu Yan , Bai Na , Zhou Qiang , Xu Zhiyao , Li Linyan , Liu Hua
Published: October 2024

Background and aims

The relationship between the ABCA7 gene and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been widely studied across various populations. However, the results have been inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association of ABCA7 polymorphisms with AD risk, including specific subtypes such as late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD).

Methods

Relevant studies were identified through comprehensive database searches, and the quality of each study was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Allele and genotype frequencies were extracted from the included studies. The pooled odds ratios (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random-effects or fixed-effects models. Multiple testing corrections were conducted using the false discovery rate (FDR) method. The Cochran Q statistic and I2 metric were used to evaluate heterogeneity between studies, while Egger’s test and funnel plots were employed to assess publication bias.

Results

A total of 36 studies, covering 21 polymorphisms and involving 31,809 AD cases and 44,994 controls, were included in this meta-analysis. NOS scores ranged from 7 to 9, indicating high-quality studies. A total of 11 SNPs (rs3764650, rs3752246, rs4147929, rs3752232, rs3752243, rs3764645, rs4147934, rs200538373, rs4147914, rs4147915, and rs115550680) in ABCA7 were significantly associated with AD risk. Among these SNPs, two (rs3764650 and rs3752246) were also found to be related to the late-onset AD (LOAD) subtype. In addition, two SNPs (rs4147929 and rs4147934) were associated with the susceptibility to AD only in non-Hispanic White populations. A total of 10 SNPs (rs3764647, rs3752229, rs3752237, rs4147932, rs113809142, rs3745842, rs3752239, rs4147918, rs74176364, and rs117187003) showed no significant relationship with AD risk. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the reliability of the original results, and heterogeneity was largely attributed to deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, ethnicity, and variations between individual studies.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that specific ABCA7 SNPs may be associated with AD risk. Future studies with larger sample sizes will be necessary to confirm these results.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42024540539.
Obliteration of a glycinergic projection to the medial geniculate in an animal model of autism
Authors: Mansour Yusra , Kulesza Randy
Published: October 2024

Auditory dysfunction affects the vast majority of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and can range from deafness to hypersensitivity. In utero exposure to the antiepileptic valproic acid (VPA) is associated with significant risk of an ASD diagnosis in humans and timed in utero exposure to VPA is utilized as an animal model of ASD. VPA-exposed rats have significantly fewer neurons in their auditory brainstem, thalamus and cortex, reduced ascending projections to the midbrain and thalamus and reduced descending projections from the cortex to the auditory midbrain. Consistent with these anatomical changes, VPA-exposed animals also have abnormal auditory brainstem responses. We have recently described a significant ascending projection from calbindin-positive neurons in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) to the ventral division of the medial geniculate (vMG) in rats that bypasses the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus (CNIC). Since we found that axonal projections to the vMG in VPA-exposed rats are reduced beyond what is predicted from neuron loss alone, we hypothesize that VPA exposure would result in a significant reduction in the MNTB projection to the vMG. We examined this hypothesis by quantifying the proportion of retrogradely-labeled neurons in the MNTB of control and VPA-exposed animals after injections of retrograde tracers in the CNIC and vMG in control and VPA-exposed animals. Our results indicate that in control animals, the MNTB forms the largest projection from the superior olivary complex to the MG and that this projection is nearly abolished by in utero VPA exposure.
Tumor treating induced fields: a new treatment option for patients with glioblastoma
Authors: Cai Zehao , Yang Zukai , Wang Ying , Li Ye , Zhao Hong , Zhao Hanwen , Yang Xue , Wang Can , Meng Tengteng , Tong Xiao , Zheng Hao , He Zhaoyong , Niu Chunli , Yang Junzhi , Chen Feng , Yang Zhi , Zou Zhige , Li Wenbin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Currently, a range of electromagnetic therapies, including magnetic field therapy, micro-currents therapy, and tumor treating fields, are under investigation for their potential in central nervous system tumor research. Each of these electromagnetic therapies possesses distinct effects and limitations. Our focus is on overcoming these limitations by developing a novel electric field generator. This generator operates by producing alternating induced currents within the tumor area through electromagnetic induction.

Methods

Finite element analysis was employed to calculate the distribution of electric fields. Cell viability was assessed using the CCK-8 assay. Tumor volumes and weights served as indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of TTIF. The in-vivo imaging system was utilized to confirm tumor growth in the brains of mice.

Results

TTIF significantly inhibited the proliferation of U87 cells both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

TTIF significantly inhibited the proliferation of U87 cells both in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, TTIF emerges as a potential treatment option for patients with progressive or metastatic GBM.
Effects of online and offline trigeminal nerve stimulation on visuomotor learning
Authors: Arias Diego E. , Buneo Christopher A.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

A current thrust in neurology involves using exogenous neuromodulation of cranial nerves (e.g, vagus, trigeminal) to treat the signs and symptoms of various neurological disorders. These techniques also have the potential to augment cognitive and/or sensorimotor functions in healthy individuals. Although much is known about the clinical effects of trigeminal nerve stimulation (TNS), effects on sensorimotor and cognitive functions such as learning have received less attention, despite their potential impact on neurorehabilitation. Here we describe the results of experiments aimed at assessing the effects of TNS on motor learning, which was behaviorally characterized using an upper extremity visuomotor adaptation paradigm.

Objective

Assessing the effects of TNS on motor learning.

Methods

Motor learning was behaviorally characterized using an upper extremity visuomotor adaptation paradigm. In Experiment 1, effects of offline TNS using clinically tested frequencies (120 and 60 Hz) were characterized. Sixty-three healthy young adults received TNS before performing a task that involved reaching with perturbed hand visual feedback. In Experiment 2, the effects of 120 and 60 Hz online TNS were characterized with the same task. Sixty-three new participants received either TNS or sham stimulation concurrently with perturbed visual feedback.

Results

Experiment 1 results showed that 60 Hz stimulation was associated with slower rates of learning than both sham and 120 Hz stimulation, indicating frequency-dependent effects of TNS. Experiment 2 however showed no significant differences among stimulation groups. A post-hoc, cross-study comparison of the 60 Hz offline and online TNS results showed a statistically significant improvement in learning rates with online stimulation relative to offline, pointing to timing-dependent effects of TNS on visuomotor learning.

Discussion

The results indicate that both the frequency and timing of TNS can influence rates of motor learning in healthy adults. This suggests that optimization of one or both parameters could potentially increase learning rates, which would provide new avenues for enhancing performance in healthy individuals and augmenting rehabilitation in patients with sensorimotor dysfunction resulting from stroke or other neurological disorders.
Maternal socio-economic status determines animal source food consumption of children aged 6–23 months in East African countries: a multilevel mixed-effects generalized linear model
Authors: Mussa Ibsa , Gamachu Mulugeta , Regassa Lemma Demissie , Birhanu Abdi , Mohammed Fethia , Weyessa Alemayehu Deressa , Eyeberu Addis , Debela Adera , Zakaria Hamdi Fekredin
Published: October 2024

Background

Nutrient deficiencies in Africa persist due to limited access to animal-source foods, causing a higher undernutrition prevalence, with 30.7% stunted children under five, which is higher than the global average of 22.0%. In African regions, there needs to be more information on access, consumption, and factors influencing children’s animal-source food consumption. Therefore, we comprehensively analyse data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) to determine factors associated with children’s (aged 6–23 months) consumption of animal-source foods (ASFs) in East African countries, which is crucial for policy and program development.

Methods

We utilized cross-sectional pooled DHS data from nine East African countries reported from 2015 to 2021. The sample size consisted of 18,686 weighted children aged 6–23 months who were included. The DHS data were collected from women (15–49 years old) from households in each enumeration area of each country. We calculated the pooled proportion of consumption of foods of animal origin using multi-level logistic regression analysis to determine factors of ASFs, and the strength of the association was measured by an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% CI and a p-value < 0.05, which was declared as significant.

Result

The study found that 51.07% (95% CI: 50.26–51.88%) of infants and young children in East Africa consume ASFs, with variation across countries, of which 28.26% (95% CI: 26.31–30.29%) was the lowest in Burundi and 55.81% (95% CI: 53.39–58.21%) was the highest ASF consumption in Zimbabwe. The amount of ASF consumed grows with children’s age and varies greatly between countries. In addition, children in the wealthiest quintile and with the highest educational attainment consume more ASFs. However, those who lived in rural areas consumed fewer ASFs.

Conclusion

The consumption of ASFs increased with the age of children, maternal education, and household wealth index. The government and non-government sectors should implement public health interventions targeting rural residents and poor households to increase access to and consumption of ASFs for children aged 6–23 months in East Africa.
A risk prediction stratification for non-mass breast lesions, combining clinical characteristics and imaging features on ultrasound, mammography, and MRI
Authors: Xie YaMie , Zhang Xiaoxiao
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Given the inevitable trend of domestic imaging center mergers and the current lack of comprehensive imaging evaluation guidelines for non-mass breast lesions, we have developed a novel BI-RADS risk prediction and stratification system for non-mass breast lesions that integrates clinical characteristics with imaging features from ultrasound, mammography, and MRI, with the aim of assisting clinicians in interpreting imaging reports.

Methods

This study enrolled 350 patients with non-mass breast lesions (NMLs), randomly assigning them to a training set of 245 cases (70%) and a test set of 105 cases (30%). Radiologists conducted comprehensive evaluations of the lesions using ultrasound, mammography, and MRI. Independent predictors were identified using LASSO logistic regression, and a predictive risk model was constructed using a nomogram generated with R software, with subsequent validation in both sets.

Results

LASSO logistic regression identified a set of independent predictors, encompassing age, clinical palpation hardness, distribution and morphology of calcifications, peripheral blood supply as depicted by color Doppler imaging, maximum lesion diameter, patterns of internal enhancement, distribution of non-mass lesions, time–intensity curve (TIC), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values. The predictive model achieved area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.873 for the training group and 0.877 for the testing group. The model’s positive predictive values were as follows: BI-RADS 2 = 0%, BI-RADS 3 = 0%, BI-RADS 4A = 6.25%, BI-RADS 4B = 26.13%, BI-RADS 4C = 80.84%, and BI-RADS 5 = 97.33%.

Conclusion

The creation of a risk-predictive BI-RADS stratification, specifically designed for non-mass breast lesions and integrating clinical and imaging data from multiple modalities, significantly enhances the precision of diagnostic categorization for these lesions.
Radiomics based on MRI in predicting lymphovascular space invasion of cervical cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Chongshuang , Wu Min , Zhang Jiancheng , Qian Hongwei , Fu Xiangyang , Yang Jing , Luo Yingbin , Qin Zhihong , Shi Tianliang
Published: October 2024

Objective

The objective of this meta-analysis is to assess the efficacy of radiomics techniques utilizing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for predicting lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) in patients with cervical cancer (CC).

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Medline, Scopus, CNKI, and Wanfang, with studies published up to 08/04/2024, being considered for inclusion. The meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15 and Review Manager 5.4. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 and Radiomics Quality Score tools. The analysis encompassed the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). Summary ROC curves were constructed, and the AUC was calculated. Heterogeneity was investigated using meta-regression. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

There were 13 studies involving a total of 2,245 patients that were included in the meta-analysis. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the MRI-based model in the Training set were 83% (95% CI: 77%–87%) and 72% (95% CI: 74%–88%), respectively. The AUC, DOR, PLR, and NLR of the MRI-based model in the Training set were 0.89 (95% CI: 0.86–0.91), 22 (95% CI: 12–40), 4.6 (95% CI: 3.1–7.0), and 0.21 (95% CI: 0.16–0.29), respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that the AUC of the model combining radiomics with clinical factors [0.90 (95% CI: 0.87–0.93)] was superior to models based on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) sequence [0.78 (95% CI: 0.74–0.81)], contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (T1WI-CE) sequence [0.85 (95% CI: 0.82–0.88)], and multiple sequences [0.86 (95% CI: 0.82–0.89)] in the Training set. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of the model integrating radiomics with clinical factors [83% (95% CI: 73%–89%) and 86% (95% CI: 73%–93%)] surpassed those of models based on the T2WI sequence [79% (95% CI: 71%–85%) and 72% (95% CI: 67%–76%)], T1WI-CE sequence [78% (95% CI: 67%–86%) and 78% (95% CI: 68%–86%)], and multiple sequences [78% (95% CI: 67%–87%) and 79% (95% CI: 70%–87%)], respectively. Funnel plot analysis indicated an absence of publication bias (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

MRI-based radiomics demonstrates excellent diagnostic performance in predicting LVSI in CC patients. The diagnostic performance of models combing radiomics and clinical factors is superior to that of models utilizing radiomics alone.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#myprospero, identifier CRD42024538007.
Analysis of the evolution of placental oxidative stress research from a bibliometric perspective
Authors: Chen Ailing , Tian Mengyuan , Luo Zouqing , Cao Xiaohui , Gu Yanfang
Published: October 2024

Background

Research on placental oxidative stress is pivotal for comprehending pregnancy-related physiological changes and disease mechanisms. Despite recent advancements, a comprehensive review of current status, hotspots, and trends remains challenging. This bibliometric study systematically analyzes the evolution of placental oxidative stress research, offering a reference for future studies.

Objective

To conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature on placental oxidative stress to identify research hotspots, trends, and key contributors, thereby providing guidance for future research.

Methods

Relevant data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database and analyzed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the bibliometrix package. An in-depth analysis of 4,796 publications was conducted, focusing on publication year, country/region, institution, author, journal, references, and keywords. Data collection concluded on 29 April 2024.

Results

A total of 4,796 papers were retrieved from 1,173 journals, authored by 18,835 researchers from 4,257 institutions across 103 countries/regions. From 1991 to 2023, annual publications on placental oxidative stress increased from 7 to 359. The United States (1,222 publications, 64,158 citations), the University of Cambridge (125 publications, 13,562 citations), and Graham J. Burton (73 publications, 11,182 citations) were the most productive country, institution, and author, respectively. The journal Placenta had the highest number of publications (329) and citations (17,152), followed by the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (122 publications). The most frequent keywords were “oxidative stress,” “expression,” “pregnancy,” “preeclampsia,” and “lipid peroxidation.” Emerging high-frequency keywords included “gestational diabetes mellitus,” “health,” “autophagy,” “pathophysiology,” “infection,” “preterm birth,” “stem cell,” and “inflammation.”

Conclusion

Over the past 3 decades, research has concentrated on oxidative stress processes, antioxidant mechanisms, pregnancy-related diseases, and gene expression regulation. Current research frontiers involve exploring pathophysiology and mechanisms, assessing emerging risk factors and environmental impacts, advancing cell biology and stem cell research, and understanding the complex interactions of inflammation and immune regulation. These studies elucidate the mechanisms of placental oxidative stress, offering essential scientific evidence for future intervention strategies, therapeutic approaches, and public health policies.
Exponential series approximation of the SIR epidemiological model
Authors: Prodanov Dimiter
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The SIR (Susceptible-Infected-Recovered) model is one of the simplest and most widely used frameworks for understanding epidemic outbreaks.

Methods

A second-order dynamical system for the R variable is formulated using an infinite exponential series expansion, and a recursion relation is established between the series coefficients. A numerical approximation scheme for the R variable is also developed.

Results

The proposed numerical method is compared to a double exponential (DE) nonlinear approximate analytic solution, which reveals two coupled timescales: a relaxation timescale, determined by the ratio of the model’s time constants, and an excitation timescale, dictated by the population size. The DE solution is applied to estimate model parameters for a well-known epidemiological dataset—the boarding school flu outbreak.

Discussion

From a theoretical standpoint, the primary contribution of this work is the derivation of an infinite exponential, Dirichlet, series for the model variables. Truncating the series yields a finite approximation, known as a Prony series, which can be interpreted as a sequence of coupled exponential relaxation processes, each with a distinct timescale. This apparent complexity can be approximated well by the DE solution, which appears to be of main practical interest.
Functions and mechanisms of RNA tailing by nucleotidyl transferase proteins in plants
Authors: Chen Jiwei , Li Xiaozhen , Dong Xianxin , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: October 2024

The addition of non-templated nucleotides at the 3’ terminus of RNA is a pervasive and evolutionarily conserved posttranscriptional modification in eukaryotes. Apart from canonical poly(A) polymerases (PAPs), which are responsible for catalyzing polyadenylation of messenger RNAs in the nucleus, a distinct group of non-canonical PAPs (ncPAPs), also known as nucleotidyl transferase proteins (NTPs), mediate the addition of uridine and adenosine or of more intricate combinations of nucleotides. Among these, HEN1 SUPPRESSOR 1 (HESO1) and UTP: RNA URIDYLYLTRANSFERASE (URT1) are the two most extensively studied NTPs responsible for the addition of uridine to the 3’ ends of RNAs (RNA uridylation). Recent discoveries have improved our understanding of the functions and mechanisms of uridylation mediated by HESO1 and URT1 in RNA metabolism. Furthermore, more NTPs have been identified to function in the 3’ tailing of RNA and not solely through uridylation. Accumulating evidence indicates that RNA tailing plays important roles in plant growth and development, stress responses, and disease resistance. In this review, we examined the latest developments in RNA tailing by NTPs, with a focus on RNA uridylation and metabolism in plants. We also discussed the essential aspects for future research in this field.
The contributions of rainfall and fog to leaf water of tree and epiphyte communities in a tropical cloud forest
Authors: Yang Qingqing , Zhang Zijing , Zhang Hui , Yang Huai , Pandey Shree , John Robert
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Tropical cloud forest ecosystems are expected to face reduced water inputs due to climatic changes.

Methods

Here, we study the ecophysiological responses of trees and epiphytes within in an Asian cloud forest to investigate the contributions of rainfall, fog, and soil to leaf water in 60 tree and 30 vascular epiphyte species. We measured multiple functional traits, and δ2H, and δ18O isotope ratios for leaf water, soil water, rainfall, and fog in the wettest (July) and driest (February) months. Using a Bayesian stable isotope mixing model, we quantified the relative contributions of soil water, fog, and rainfall to leaf water.

Results and discussion

Rainfall contributes almost all the leaf water of the epiphytes in July, whereas fog is the major source in February. Epiphytes cannot tap xylem water from host trees, and hence depended on fog water when rainfall was low. Most of leaf water was absorbed from soil water in July, while fog was an important source for leaf water in February despite the soil moisture content value was high. In February, lower temperatures, along with reduced photosynthesis and transpiration rates, likely contributed to decreased soil water uptake, while maintaining higher soil moisture levels despite the limited rainfall. These contrasting contributions of different water sources to leaf water under low and high rainfall and for different plant groups outline the community-level ecophysiological responses to changes in rainfall. While direct measurements of water flux, particularly in roots and stems, are needed, our results provide valuable insights on tropical cloud forest hydrology under scenarios of decreased fog immersion due to climatic changes.
Refugees’ integration and emotional distress over the course of 9 months
Authors: Potter Flurina , Dohrmann Katalin , Rockstroh Brigitte , Crombach Anselm
Published: October 2024

Background

High prevalence rates of mental disorders are reported in refugees due to experiencing substantial pre-, peri-, and post-migration stress. While long-term studies indicated that emotional distress of refugees either stagnates or ameliorates over time, long-term research on refugees’ integration and its’ interaction with emotional distress is limited. The examined long-term predictors for refugees’ emotional distress and integration in this study were, amongst others, severe physical abuse in childhood, residence status and length of stay.

Methods

The sample included 46 refugees, 91.3% male, mean age 20.8 years. Trained psychologists screened for emotional distress with the use of the Refugee Health Screener in a semi-structured interview. Integration progress was screened using the Integration Index with the subdimensions psychological, economic, political, social, linguistic and navigational integration. Longitudinal differences for emotional distress and integration sub-dimensions were evaluated by sign tests and t-tests. The longitudinal course of integration was evaluated with a Mixed ANOVA. Further, two hierarchical regression analyses were performed to analyze longitudinal predictors of emotional distress and integration.

Results

Overall, emotional distress decreased, and integration increased over time. In particular, the sub-dimensions of social, economic, and linguistic integration increased significantly over time. Two regression analyses determined significant predictors of (a) emotional distresst1 (adjusted R2 = 0.46): psychotherapy (ß = 0.35, p = 0.020), emotional distresst0 (ß = 0.34, p = 0.031), and integrationt0 (ß = −0.29, p = 0.043), and one significant predictor of (b) integrationt1 (adjusted R2 = 0.70): integrationt0 (ß = 0.89, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This is the first study to longitudinally examine the Integration Index with all subdimensions. Over the course of 9 months refugees’ overall integration, and the sub-dimensions of social, economic, and linguistic integration increased. Whilst the emotional distress of initially highly distressed refugees ameliorated over the course of nine months, their symptom severity remained clinically significant. Results emphasize the importance of early integration for the long-term development of mental health and integration in refugees. Refugees’ emotional distress and integration are intertwined and need to be addressed promptly after refugees’ entry into the host country.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward advanced precision radiotherapy among patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Guo Zhanfei , Cai Qingrui , Liu Bingbing , Zhao Liufang , Xie Yanyan , Li Zhijia , Liu Rui , Wang Yunxiao , Chen Xiaodan , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: October 2024

Background

Advancements in radiotherapy (RT) technology have led to the prominence of precision RT in head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. The new progress in precision RT offers more efficient therapy, potentially improving outcomes for HNC patients.

Objective

The present cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of patients in advanced precision RT for HNC treatment.

Methods

This study enrolled HNC patients at the Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering between October 2023 and May 2024. Then, the demographic data and KAP scores were collected using an investigator-designed questionnaire. Afterwards, descriptive statistics were provided for all study variables, and the relationship among KAP was analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, including Spearman correlation, logistic regression, and path analysis.

Results

A total of 436 participants with a mean age of 52.03 ± 12.19 years old were included. The mean knowledge score, attitude score, and practice score were 18.33 ± 4.21, 36.14 ± 1.71, and 26.26 ± 1.83, respectively. Although most of the participants were unfamiliar with advanced precision RT, they expressed a high willingness to follow their doctor's recommendation for this treatment. The multivariable analysis revealed a positive association between attitude score and proactive practice. The path analysis revealed that knowledge directly influenced attitude and practice, while attitude directly impacted practice.

Conclusion

HNC participants had poor knowledge of advanced precision RT techniques, but had a positive attitude and the willingness to undergo treatment when recommended by their physicians. These results suggest that improving patients' awareness for advanced precision RT can help to promote better attitude and advanced precision RT practice.
Frequency of internet use, economic income, and health of the population—comparative analysis of urban and rural areas based on Chinese General Social Survey
Authors: Yang Xifeng
Published: October 2024

People’s health is one of the important supports for China’s economic development. This study uses the 2021 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) data to empirically test the impact of residents’ Internet use frequency and economic income on residents’ health level, and analyzes the differences between urban and rural areas. The empirical test results show that, firstly, the frequency of Internet use can promote the health level of residents, and the promotion effect of Internet use frequency on the health level of rural residents is higher than that of urban residents; Secondly, economic income has a positive promoting effect on the health level of the entire sample of residents, but in urban samples, the regression between economic income and residents’ health level is not significant. Third, in the heterogeneity test of region, gender and age, it is found that the impact of residents’ Internet use frequency and economic income on residents’ health level also has urban–rural differences. Based on this, this study suggests that the government can continue to make efforts to further promote the health level of residents by improving the Internet penetration rate, strengthening the use of Internet skills, carrying out Internet professional skills training and promoting the high-quality development of Internet content.