bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex differences in the incidence, mortality, and survival outcomes of lymphoma subtypes
Authors: Xing Ziping , Cao Ping , Li Zifeng , Dong Rui , Li Jun , Ma Yangyang , Chen Lian , Chen Xiaotian , Qian Xiaowen , Wang Hongsheng , Qian Maoxiang , Zhai Xiaowen
Published: May 2024

Background
The phenomenon of males exhibiting higher lymphoma incidence and mortality rates than females has been widely recognized, and many survival analyses of certain lymphoma subtypes have incorporated sex as a critical prognostic determinant. However, comprehensive research on these sex-based differences in lymphomas remains limited.
Methods
This study aimed to conduct an integrated population-based analysis of sex-based disparities across various lymphoma subtypes using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. We assessed the age-adjusted incidence rates of cases in the SEER22 and incidence-based mortality rates in the SEER12. The rates were stratified according to subtype, sex, race/ethnicity (incidence and mortality), age at diagnosis, and year of diagnosis (incidence only). Furthermore, we compared the risks of all-cause mortality, cancer-specific mortality, and cardiovascular disease-related mortality based on sex in SEER17.
Results
Our findings revealed that males had a higher likelihood of developing lymphoma and exhibited higher mortality rates than females for most lymphoma subtypes. These sex-based disparities in incidence and mortality were relatively consistent across five racial/ethnic groups. However, sex-based disparities in cancer incidence varied among age groups, and a trend toward narrowing differences with increasing age was observed in nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL), mantle cell lymphoma, and Burkitt lymphoma. Over the past two decades, trends in sex-based disparities of lymphoma incidence have remained stable. Regarding survival outcomes, males faced an increased risk of death compared to females for most lymphoma subtypes, except for NLPHL.
Conclusions
The results of our study underscore the complex and multifaceted nature of sex-based disparities in lymphoma and may offer valuable guidance for future research to unravel the potential causes of these differences.
Adaptation of the Online Moral Disengagement Scale in Turkish: Its Association with Empathetic Tendency and Cyberbullying
Authors: Bakioğlu Fuad , Çapan Bahtiyar Eraslan , Kırteke Sami , Pakpour Amir H
Published: May 2024

Background
Traditional moral disengagement is observed in daily life. However, as the time spent in virtual environments increases, it is important to investigate online moral disengagement. This study aimed to adapt the Online Moral Disengagement Scale to the Turkish population and examine the relationships among online moral disengagement, empathic tendency, and cyberbullying.
Methods
The study participants (58.2% females [n = 404], 41.8% males [n = 290]) consisted of 694 adolescent volunteers. The data were collected using the Online Moral Disengagement Scale, Cyber Bullying Scale, and Adolescent KA-Sİ Empathic Tendency Scale. The study was conducted in several stages: confirmatory factor analysis, item factor loading, item-total correlation, concurrent analysis, mediating analysis, and reliability analysis.
Results
The eight-item structure of the scale was confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis. The study revealed significant relationships between online moral disengagement, cyberbullying, and empathic tendency. Online moral disengagement was found to mediate the relationship between empathic tendency and cyberbullying.
Conclusion
The scale's reliability values were good, and all the results indicated that the Turkish version of the moral disengagement scale was valid and reliable.
Volumetric modulated arc therapy versus three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy in breast cancer patients treated with regional nodal irradiation
Authors: Ogita Mami , Nozawa Yuki , Morishima Kosuke , Nawa Kanabu , Yamashita Hideomi
Published: May 2024

Background
We compared the dosimetric and clinical outcomes of VMAT and 3D-CRT in breast cancer patients undergoing regional nodal irradiation (RNI) to determine the effectiveness of VMAT.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included breast cancer patients who underwent adjuvant radiotherapy with RNI between July 2016 and September 2022. Patients were assigned to receive either 3D-CRT or VMAT based on the laterality of their cancer. Right-sided breast cancer received 3D-CRT, while left-sided breast cancer received VMAT. Radiotherapy consisted of a dose of 50 Gy/25 fr to the chest wall or breast and the regional nodes. Dosimetric parameters, adverse events, and survival were compared between 3D-CRT and VMAT.
Results
A total of 126 patients were included in the analysis, with 64 in the 3D-CRT group and 62 in the VMAT group. VMAT showed better coverage of the clinical target volume (P < 0.01). Among patients who received internal mammary node irradiation, VMAT resulted in a lower total lung V20 Gy compared to 3D-CRT (17% vs. 11%, P < 0.01), whereas total lung V5 Gy was higher for VMAT (27% vs. 34%, P < 0.01). The incidence of grade 2 acute dermatitis was lower in the VMAT group (27%) than in the 3D-CRT group (47%) (P= 0.02). The 5-year overall survival and breast cancer-specific survival rates were 87% and 90% in the 3D-CRT group and 100% and 100% in the VMAT group, respectively (P = 0.06 and 0.09).
Conclusions
VMAT showed better target coverage and less acute radiation dermatitis compared to 3D-CRT.
The Key Factors Controlling the Mechanisms of Consecutive Failures in the Collolar Open Pit in the Afsin-Elbistan Lignite (AEL) Basin in Southeast Türkiye
Authors: Mahmutoğlu Yılmaz , Karagüzel Remzi
Published: May 2024

Mass movements pose a great threat to the safe operation of open pit mines and seriously affect the mining economy, human health and environmental safety. In cases of insufficient dewatering or excessive groundwater withdrawal, different types of stability problems may arise especially in weak and saturated geological settings. In engineering practice, back analyses by finite element method (FEM) is a valuable tool for the evaluation of such cases and revealing their causes. In this study, mechanisms of consecutive failures occurred in an open pit slopes in the Afşin Elbistan Lignite (AEL) basin, southeast of Türkiye, were assessed based on intensive data obtained from the field and laboratory investigations. As a result of back analyses carried out through 2D FEM analyses, it was concluded that the high plasticity clay layers within the geological formation and the hydraulic interaction of two aquifers with different characteristics at the edge of the basin are two key factors controlling mining activities in the AEL basin.
Unveiling the Key Elements of Effective Preventive Strategies: Insights Into Addressing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Physiotherapists
Authors: Harithasan Deepashini , Sean Lim Pei , Singh Devinder Kaur Ajit
Published: May 2024

This study explores the awareness of strategies used in preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and their effectiveness, motivation, and barriers to preventing WMSDs among physiotherapists. This qualitative study was administered among physiotherapists in Malaysia, where semi-structured interviews with a modified interview guide were used through an online platform. The interview was performed as an open conversation and follow-up questions to ensure the research question was answered in-depth. Participants were aware of a range of strategies used in preventing WMSD among physiotherapists and acknowledged the effectiveness of these strategies. The strategies are proper body mechanics (61.5%), exercise (23.1%), proper work ergonomics (15.4%), adequate staffing (15.4%), use of equipment (15.4%), and proper warm-up (7.7%). Clinics or hospitals well equipped with devices and equipment (53.8%), encouraging proper body mechanics and posture (46.2%), and education (30.8%) were the most common themes that motivated participants in preventive WMSD. Several barriers to the engagement of these preventive strategies were also acknowledged, namely the availability of equipment, heavy workload, and inadequate staffing. The findings underscore the awareness among Malaysian physiotherapists regarding the significance of proper body mechanics and the integration of physical exercise as effective measures to prevent WMSDs. These professionals commonly employ preventive strategies, such as utilizing tools or equipment, promoting correct body mechanics and posture, and imparting educational initiatives, to actively combat WMSDs. However, employers must also address existing obstacles like equipment shortages, excessive workloads, and insufficient staffing to ensure the successful implementation of WMSD prevention strategies in the workplace.
Gut bacterium Intestinimonas butyriciproducens improves host metabolic health: evidence from cohort and animal intervention studies
Authors: Rampanelli Elena , Romp Nadia , Troise Antonio Dario , Ananthasabesan Jakshana , Wu Hao , Gül Ismail Sahin , De Pascale Sabrina , Scaloni Andrea , Bäckhed Fredrik , Fogliano Vincenzo , Nieuwdorp Max , Bui Thi Phuong Nam
Published: May 2024

Background: The human gut microbiome strongly influences host metabolism via fermentation of dietary components to metabolites that allow communication with peripheral tissues. Short chain fatty acids are among the most known microbial metabolites that signal to the host. Intestinimonas butyriciproducens is a prevalent commensal bacterium that has a unique capability of converting dietary fructoselysine to butyrate and acetate and has a completed fructoselysine catabolic pathway. Dietary fructoselysine is an abundant Amadori product formed in foods during processing and is part of food products rich in dietary advanced glycation end products which can be potentially toxic. Therefore, understanding the role of this bacterium and fructoselysine metabolism in metabolic health is highly relevant.
Results: We accessed associations of I. butyriciproducens with metabolic risk biomarkers via both strain and functional levels using a human cohort characterized by fecal metagenomic analysis. We observed that the level of the bacterial strain as well as fructoselysine fermentation genes were reversely associated with BMI, triglycerides, HbA1c and fasting insulin levels. We also investigated degradation capacity of fructoselysine within the Intestinimonas genus using a culture dependent approach and observed that I. butyriciproducens as a key player in the butyrogenic fructoselysine metabolism in the gut. To explore the function of I. butyriciproducens on host metabolism, we employed the diet-induced obesity mouse model to mimic the human metabolic syndrome. Oral supplementation of I. butyriciproducens counteracted body weight gain, hyperglycemia as well as adiposity. Moreover, within the inguinal white adipose tissue, bacterial administration reduced inflammation and promotes pathways involved in browning and insulin signaling. The observed effects are attributable to the formation of the short-chain fatty acids butyrate and acetate from dietary fructoselysine, as their plasma levels were significantly augmented by the bacterial strain, thereby contributing to systemic effects of the bacterial treatment.
Conclusions: I. butyriciproducens ameliorates host metabolism in the context of obesity and may thus be a good candidate for new microbiota-therapeutic approaches to prevent or treat metabolic diseases.
The interplay between ADHD and school shift on educational outcomes in children and adolescents: A cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis
Authors: Porto Ighor Miron , Amaral João Villanova , Pacheco João Pedro Gonçalves , Terra Igor , Miguel Euripedes Constantino , Pan Pedro Mario , Gadelha Ary , Rohde Luis Augusto , Salum Giovanni Abrahão , Hoffmann Maurício Scopel
Published: May 2024

Many countries implement a double-shift schooling system, offering morning or afternoon shifts, driven by diverse factors. Young people with ADHD may face educational problems attending morning shifts compared to afternoon shifts. To investigate this, we used data from a Brazilian school-based cohort (n = 2.240, 6–14 years old, 45.6% female; 50.2% in the morning shift; 11.2% with ADHD). ADHD was determined by child psychiatrists using semi-structured interview. Educational outcomes were measured cross-sectionally and three years later (80% retention) and included reading and writing ability, performance in school subjects, and any negative school events (repetition, suspension, or dropout). Generalized regression models tested the interaction between ADHD and school shift and were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, intelligence, parental education, socioeconomic status, and site. Attrition was adjusted with inverse probability weights. We used two dimensional measures of attentional problems as sensitivity analysis. ADHD and morning shift were independently associated with lower reading and writing ability and with higher odds for negative school events cross sectionally. ADHD independently predicted lower performance in school subjects and higher negative school events at follow-up. Interaction was found only at the cross-sectional level in a way that those studying in the afternoon present better educational outcomes compared with those studying in the morning only if they have lower ADHD symptom. Thus, ADHD was not associated with poorer educational outcomes among those studying in the morning. However, participants studying in the afternoon with lower levels of attentional problems presented better educational, despite these associations fade away over time.
The working memory mechanism of the maintenance and updating of spatial situation awareness projection
Authors: Zhang Junheng , Huang Lei , Yan Bihua , Ji Ming
Published: May 2024

In dynamic tasks such as flying and driving, the accurate projection of changes in spatial information is essential for safe operation by operators. However, the working memory mechanism involved in maintaining and updating spatial situation awareness projection are not yet understood. Three experiments were conducted, using a masking paradigm to simulate situation absence and applying distraction, to investigate the working memory mechanism of the maintenance and updating of spatial situation awareness projection. The results revealed that, under different conditions of duration of situation absence and continuous distraction (Experiment 1), increases in the duration of situation absence caused the accuracy of the participants’ projection of the position of a moving object to decrease and their response time slowed. After approximately 5s of situation absence, their projection became completely inaccurate and their reaction delay was at its highest. Under conditions of fixed duration of situation absence and different durations of distraction (Experiment 2), only continuous distraction led to a deterioration in the participants’ projection performance, which partially recovered after the distraction was interrupted. Under different conditions of distraction type and object relationships (Experiment 3), visual-spatial distraction had a stronger negative impact on the participants’ projection judgments compared to auditory distraction, and increased complexity in object relationships amplified the effect of visual-spatial distraction on the participants’ projection judgments. These findings suggest that spatial situation awareness projection has a maintenance and updating mechanism associated with the central executive system’s refreshing function and the visuospatial sketchpad, which operate within limited storage capacity and time constraints.
Enhancing the Accuracy of Machinery Fault Diagnosis through Fault Source Isolation of Complex Mixture of Industrial Sound Signals
Authors: Senanayaka Ayantha , Lee Philku , Lee Nayeon , Dickerson Charles , Netchaev Anton , Mun Sungkwang
Published: May 2024

Machinery health monitoring techniques provide valuable insights into the performance and condition of machines. Acoustic sensor-based monitoring has emerged as a significant area of interest for the industry due to its ability to accurately capture fault signatures, thereby improving the detection accuracies of anomalies or deviations from regular operations. However, the collected sensor signals typically contain a complex mixture of sounds that relate to multiple fault conditions, environmental noise, and other unwanted sounds from the surroundings. Identifying the specific root causes of failures is a challenge in modeling without knowledge of the unique characteristics of failure conditions. This can ultimately degrade the model’s performance or yield inaccurate failure estimations in condition monitoring, which is a consistent concern in the industry. Therefore, this study proposes a novel framework that enhances the accuracy of machinery fault diagnosis using audio source separation of complex mixture of sound signals. The proposed approach employs a Deep Extractor for Music Source Separation (DEMUCS), a state-of-the-art music source separation approach consisting of an encoder-decoder architecture that uses bi-directional long-short-term memory (LSTM) for industrial machine sound separation and enhancement. The proposed methodology comprises two steps. In the first step, the fault sound isolation and recovering individual fault sounds from a complex mixture of sound signals are enabled using DEMUCS. In the second step, the isolated fault sounds are fed through a 1D-convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) classifier for adequate classification. A machine fault simulator by Spectra Quest equipped with a condenser mic was employed to evaluate the proposed DEMUCS-CNN methodology for identifying multiple faults. The effectiveness of the DEMUCS-CNN method was also compared to the traditional approach of blind source separation (BSS). The outcomes of the comparison indicated that the suggested approach of fault isolation by DEMUCS led to enhanced fault classification accuracy, making it a more effective approach compared to conventional BSS.
Dosimetric Analysis and Acute Toxicity in Craniospinal Irradiation Using Helical Tomotherapy: Experience from a Tertiary Cancer Center
Authors: Malukar Siddharth , Parikh Ankita , Kunikullaya U Suryanarayana , Rath Satyajeet , Singh Jayesh , Pandya Akash , Dash Niranjan , T Arun , Mehta Maitrik , Shah Sonal Patel , Shivhare Vinay , Yadav Rajan , Patel Dhara , Prajapati Krishna , Hadiya Piyush , Bopche Tushar , Pelagade Satish , Kakkad Mitul , C.D. Jincy , Pachat Anagha
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of helical intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for Craniospinal Irradiation (CSI) on tomotherapy, aiming to enhance target coverage while minimizing radiation dose to nearby organs at risk (OARs) and to assess acute toxicities.
Methods
It was a prospective observational single-arm study, 24 patients meeting inclusion criteria were enrolled, with most common histology being medulloblastoma. Planning was executed using the Accuray Precision system, adhering to European Society of Paediatric Oncology guidelines for contouring. Dosimetric analysis encompassing target coverage, conformity, homogeneity, and OAR sparing was performed. Acute side effects were assessed using CTCAE 4.0.
Results
Tomotherapy showed acceptable target coverage and spared organs at risk (OARs), although some patients exceeded QUANTEC dose limits due to factors like target volume, prescribed dose and proximity to OARs. Hematological and skin-related adverse events were observed, mostly mild to moderate. These toxicities were generally acceptable. Plans with 2.5 cm field width had higher toxicity rates compared to 5 cm width, attributed to increased monitor units and beam-on times.
Conclusion
Tomotherapy demonstrated effectiveness in target coverage and OAR sparing, careful consideration of dose limits and field width is crucial to minimize toxicity risks. These findings contribute to the understanding of the feasibility and safety profile of Tomotherapy in Craniospinal Irradiation. Larger cohorts and extended follow-up periods are necessary to evaluate late toxicities comprehensively.
Utilizing Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) of the nail for the detection of osteoporosis
Authors: Raheem Safa , Habana Sami , Ali Alaa H.
Published: May 2024

In this study, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technology was used to diagnose osteoporosis through nail analysis. The study focused on measuring calcium concentration in nails as an indicator of bone density and osteoporosis diagnosis. Samples were collected from a healthy individual and a person with osteoporosis from Al-Hillah Teaching Hospital. The results showed that healthy nails have higher calcium concentrations compared to nails affected by osteoporosis. LIBS technology is a powerful and accurate tool for analyzing the elemental composition of nails and identifying disease-related changes. Physicians can utilize this technique to improve their ability to diagnose and monitor osteoporosis and guide appropriate treatment.
Social determinants of health and use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and germline genetic testing in patients with early stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) in the community oncology setting
Authors: Reid Robert , Danso Michael , Dye Joseph , Leong Traci , Raska Paola , kuntz Barb , kidd Angel , Espirito Janet , Tedesco karen , Goudar Ranjit , Lewis Tifany , Clark Becky , Adger Rachael , kocemba Leanne , Mendenhall Molly , Robert Nicholas
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Triple negative breast cancer is a biologically aggressive cancer with limited treatment options. The disease behaves more aggressively in Black women, producing higher mortality rates.
Methods
With the aim of understanding reasons for this difference in outcomes, a retrospective, observational cohort study was conducted. We sought to correlate social determinants of health with use of germline genetic testing and administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Results
We observed lower use of germline genetic testing among patients who were Black (OR = 0.43, p = 0.007 vs. White) or from lower socioeconomic status neighborhoods (OR = 0.98, p = 0.001). Nonetheless, lower administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy was seen in those of older age (OR = 0.95, p < 0.001) or on Medicaid insurance (OR = 0.54, p = 0.020 vs. commercial insurance), while higher administration was seen among patients that were Black (OR = 1.57, p = 0.044 vs. White), obese (OR = 1.46, p = 0.048 vs. normal BMI), or stages over IIA (all stages above IIA p < 0.001 vs. IIA).
Conclusion
Findings suggest that differences in outcomes seen in Black patients may be due to reduced use of germline genetic testing, but not reduced administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Prevalence of Chronic Back Pain among Health Workers at Bashir Teaching Hospital - 2022
Authors: Abd-Elmonim Amna , Magbol Mustafa , Gafoon Ali Abubaker Ahmed , Mohammed Hajer Ahmed Ibrahim , Ali Fatima Siddig Ahmed , Osman Amal , Semaih Handel , Zeyad Mohammed Hussien
Published: May 2024

Introduction
: Chronic back pain is defined as pain that continues for 12 weeks or longer is the second most pain reported after headache. It is a very common symptom affecting nearly everyone at certain time in their lives. Chronic back pain is a significant problem for healthcare workers as it contributes to missed participation time, disability and serious emotional issues.
Objectives
The purpose was to measure the prevalence of chronic back pain and prevalence related with speciality, gender, time spent in work and the effect on daily activities and performance among health care workers in Bashir teaching hospital.
Method
A cross sectional study using self-administered closed ended online questionnaire by google form, stratified random sampling was conducted among Bashir hospital health workers. The questionnaire collected data regarding having chronic back pain, Specialty, duration of working, working hours and affection of daily activities.
Results
Out of 171 participants, the overall prevalence of chronic back pain amounted to 72 (42.1%), prevalence in males was 38.3% while in females was 63.7%. Prevalence in doctors was 59.1%, nurses 28.7%, lab doctors 5.8%, midwifes 4.1% and pharmacist 2.3%. participants less than 24years was 24%, between 24 and 35 years was 56.1%, more than 35years 19.9%.
Conclusions
The prevalence of chronic back pain is more than 40% of the participants, doctors mostly affected while the nurses come second. female higher involved than male. CBP had rule on reduction of daily activities and psychological health aspects although most of participants had mild to moderate back pain.
Improving Survival in Sepsis: Optimizing Treatment Duration with Polymyxin-B Immobilized Hemoperfusion—A Comprehensive Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Yichang , Gao Wen , He Renbin , Zhou Jiatong , Fu Rao , Sun Zhi-Hua , Li Jia-Kai , Liu Huai-Yuan , Gong Hui , Zhang Bikui , Yan Miao
Published: May 2024

Background and objectives: Sepsis and septic shock are critical health emergencies with high morbidity and mortality rates, often triggered by infections. The study investigates Polymyxin B-immobilized fiber column hemoperfusion (PMX-HP) as a supplementary therapy, evaluating its efficacy in critically ill patients with sepsis or septic shock, and determining the optimal treatment protocol.
Methods: This study conducted a systematic review across multiple databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and several Chinese databases up to September 21, 2023. We applied strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to filter relevant studies. The evaluation employed a Bayesian random effects model within a network meta-analysis framework, utilizing Stata 17 for statistical analysis.
Results: From a total of 1,669 papers, 35 studies involving 12,844 patients were selected. Assessing the primary outcome of 28-day mortality, all PMX-HP treatments demonstrated a significant reduction in mortality, with a pooled risk ratio (RR) of 1.19 (95% CI: 1.08–1.31). The optimal regimen, based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), was PMX-HP for 2 hours twice daily (SUCRA 0.403). Secondary outcomes included changes in the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, inotropic score, C-reactive protein (CRP), and ICU-free days. The PMX-HP treatment notably improved SOFA scores in 7 studies (593 patients) with a pooled RR of 2.57 (95% CI: 2.11–3.04). For inotropic support, PMX-HP showed a pooled RR of 16.24 (95% CI: 12.76–19.71). In reducing CRP levels, shorter PMX-HP sessions (2 hours, once or twice daily) significantly reduced CRP, while the 4-hour regimen was preferred when extending treatment duration. Prolonged treatments also increased ICU-free days, with PMX-HP exceeding 4 hours showing the highest efficacy (SUCRA 0.801).
Conclusion: PMX-HP significantly enhances survival among adults with severe infections or sepsis/septic shock. The 2-hour regimen administered twice a day was particularly effective. These findings provide crucial insights for refining PMX-HP treatment strategies, highlighting its potential as a valuable adjunct therapy in managing severe sepsis.
The predictions of seven cancers burden attributed to high fasting plasma glucose from 2020 to 2030
Authors: Ye Jianming , Wang Ping , Qin Juanjuan , Lei Fang , Tang Fangfang , Lin Lijin , Zhang Xingyuan , Wang Wenxin , Liu Weifang , Chen Ze , Zhang Peng , Zhang Xiao-jing , Ji Yan-xiao , She Zhi-gang , Zeng Yong , Wang Xiangcai
Published: May 2024

Background
High fasting plasma glucose (High-FPG) is a major contributory but neglected factor for the risk of neoplastic transformation, progression and mortality. Estimating the global cancer burden attributable to High-FPG is essential for effective interventions.
Methods
We projected the change in the global cancer burden attributable to High-FPG from 2020 to 2030 by the Bayesian age-period-cohort model using the data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2019. Then we depicted the projected age-standardized rate of cancer-related death and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) due to High-FPG by sex, region and cancer types.
Results
Globally, the age-standardized DALYs rate (ASDR) and age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) of cancer attributable to High-FPG increased from 1990 to 2019, and will increase to 109.79 and 5.97 per 100,000 population by 2030, respectively. The ASDR and ASMR will be higher in males than females all along and positively with SDI levels. Except for the high-middle SDI regions where ASDR is expected to decline from 110.18 per 100 000 in 2020 to 100.12 per 100 000 in 2030, all other SDI regions are expected to show an upward trend. Comparing with the rapid increase in low SDI areas, the uptrends of High-FPG-related cancer burden in high SDI regions is expected to flatten from 2020 to 2030. Overall, tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer (TBLC), colon and rectum cancer (CRC), and breast cancer will still account for more than three-quarters of the total cancer burden related to High-FPG, and still be the top three among 7 cancers.
Conclusion
In the next decade, the global burden of cancer attributed to High-FPG will go on increasing progressively, and TBLC, CRC, and breast cancer will remain particularly prominent. High and high-middle SDI regions have a significantly higher burden. While this burden will increase rapidly in lower SDI regions, which further exacerbates the burden globally. Targeted and effective measures to control the burden of High-FPG-related cancer should be customized and implemented.
Impact of foregoing a nasogastric tube in robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Shyr Bor-Uei , Wang Shin-E , Shyr Bor-Shiuan , Chen Shih-Chin , Shyr Yi-Ming
Published: May 2024

Nasogastric tube (NGT) placement has been standard practice in pancreatoduodenectomy, but also questioned. This study evaluated the feasibility and safety of foregoing a NGT in robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD). A total of 906 patients undergoing RPD or open pancreatoduodenectomy (OPD) were included in this study for propensity score matching. Study group of RPD without a NG tube (RPD(-)NGT) was compared with those of RPD with a NG tube (RPD(+)NGT) and OPD with a NG tube (OPD(+)NGT). Each arm comprised 100 patients. The RPD groups without and with NGT had less intraoperative blood loss compared to the OPD group, with a median of 155 vs. 200 vs. 500 cc (p < 0.001) and a higher lymph node yield, with a median number of 18 vs. 15 vs. 12 (p < 0.001). The surgical outcomes were comparable among the RPD(-)NGT, RPD(+)NGT, and OPD(+)NGT groups, except for delayed gastric emptying (DGE) and length of stay (LOS). The incidence of DGE was significantly lower in the RPD without and with NGT groups than in the OPD(+)NGT group (3% vs. 4% vs. 18%, p < 0.001). The LOS was also shorter in the RPD(-)NGT group, with a median of 17 days, compared to the other two groups with NGT, 22 days and 26 days (p < 0.001). Only operation type, OPD, remained an independent risk factor for predicting the occurrence of DGE. RPD without NGT was associated with lower DGE and shorter LOS. It is feasible to forego a NGT in RPD cases without negative impact on safety.
Application and Exploration of Total Hip Arthroplasty for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Assisted by Full-Process Robotics
Authors: Shi Hongxin , Rao Yu , Pu Luqiao , Qi Baochuang , He JianLin , Cheng Meng , Ren Junxiao , Tang Zhifang , Xu YongQing , Li Chuan
Published: May 2024

Purpose
To explore the clinical efficacy of total hip arthroplasty (THA) assisted by full-process robotics in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).
Methods
Sixty-four patients were divided into two groups: the robotic-assisted group (n = 32) and the conventional group (n = 32). A retrospective study was conducted to compare the therapeutic differences between the two groups.
Results
All 64 patients underwent THA successfully, with an average follow-up time of (12.27 ± 0.17) months, and no relevant complications occurred. In the robotic-assisted group, the anteversion angle and abduction angle of the acetabular cup placement were within the safe zone, while in the conventional group, there were 4 cases outside the safe zone. The postoperative Harris score and FJS score were higher, and the VAS score was lower in the robotic-assisted group compared to the conventional group.
Conclusion
Robotic-assisted THA demonstrates advantages in intraoperative precision and postoperative efficacy in treating patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip compared to the conventional manual approach.
An artificial neural network modeling of solar drying of mint: Energy, exergy, and drying kinetics
Authors: Gülçimen Fevzi , Karakaya Hakan , Durmuş Aydın
Published: May 2024

The energy and exergy analysis of thin-layer drying of mint leaves was performed in a forced convective solar dryer with new design solar collector. The effects of inlet airflow rates on the energy utilization ratio (EUR), energy generated by the solar air collector, exergy losses, exergy efficiency, and kinetics of drying were determined. The EUR varied between 7.45 to 87.1% and it increased when the flow rate decreased. The average exergy loss for the air with mass flow rates of 0.012, 0.026, and 0.033 kg/s was calculated as 16.2 W, 8.2 W, and 6.88 W, respectively. Unlike other studies, exergy and EUR data obtained from experimental data were modeled with an artificial neural network (ANN). The experimental data were modeled by an artificial neural network (ANN) via a feed-forward back-propagation network. The values obtained from ANN modeling were significantly closed to the experimental values. In both experimental and ANN models, EUR and exergy loss decreased with increasing airflow rate. The importance of airflow rates was promising to modify EUR and exergy losses.
Shear behaviour of different joints and its influence on fault slip rockburst using 3D printing and 3D carving
Authors: Cheng Guangtan , Zhang Ning
Published: May 2024

Rock joints are widely distributed in rock masses, and their mechanical behaviours largely determine the strength and stability of the rock mass. The shear slip and failure along weak joints can lead to the instability of the rock mass and even induce landslides, tunnel collapses, rockbursts or other geological disasters. Thus, the study on the shear behaviours of rock joints and their influence on rockbursts is very important for the prevention of rockbursts and the safe construction of tunnels. In this paper, three types of rock joints (plaster mortar joints, marble joints and granite joints) containing the same surface are reproduced applying the 3D printing and 3D carving techniques. Shear tests of three different rock joints are performed under different normal stress levels. The shear behaviours and acoustic emission (AE) characteristics of different rock joints and their influence on fault slip rockbursts are addressed. The results indicate that the sudden stick slip and violent stress drops of granite joints could release enormous amounts of energy, which is more likely to induce a fault slip rockburst. The stress drop values after the peak increase with increasing applied normal stresses, resulting in an increase in the possibility of fault slip rockbursts. Dynamic shear failure dominates in granite joints, and the corresponding AE energy rate generated during shearing is also higher than that of the other two joints, indicating that more energy is released and that fault slip rockbursts occur easily.
The prevalence and correlates of unintended pregnancy among female sex workers in South China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liang Peng , Zhao Peizhen , Shi Yijia , Huang Shujie , Wang Cheng
Published: May 2024

Background: Female sex workers (FSW) are particularly vulnerable to unintended pregnancy. Research examining the experience of unintended pregnancy due to commercial sex among Chinese FSW, however, is limited. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of unintended pregnancy due to commercial sex among FSW in China.
Methods: In 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted in five cities from Guangdong provinces in South China. Data were collected on social-demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, experience of unintended pregnancy due to commercial sex and its pregnancy outcome, as well as experience of abortion in lifetime. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with unintended pregnancy.
Results: Among 1257 female sex workers, 19.3% (242/1257) of women reported having at least one unintended pregnancy due to commercial sex, 96.7% (234/242) of participants opted for induced abortion as a means for pregnancy termination. Among those women who experienced unintended pregnancy, 40.5% of individuals (98/242) reported having undergone multiple induced abortion in lifetime. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that women working in high tier (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 0.21, 95%CI: 0.14-0.30), working in current location over one year (aOR: 2.82, 95%CI: 1.71-4.64), using condoms with clients inconsistently in the past month (aOR: 0.16, 95%CI:0.10-0.23), and having more clients in the past week (aOR: 4.53, 95%CI:2.74-7.51) were more likely to experience unintended pregnancy.
Conclusions: Unintended pregnancy are prevalent among FSW in South China. Interventions aimed at reducing the prevalence of unintended pregnancy and enhancing post-abortion care could be necessary among Chinese FSW.
Provision of Counselling Services in Handling Psychosocial Challenges Among Students in Secondary Schools in Tanzania: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Lyimo Godrick , Mkongo Joyce , Lyakurwa Suitbert
Published: May 2024

Secondary education represents a pivotal period in the lives of students, marked by academic pursuits, social interactions, and personal development. However, the transitional nature of adolescence can introduce a host of psychosocial challenges that, if unaddressed, may impede students' overall well-being and hinder their academic success. In the context of Tanzanian secondary schools, where the educational landscape is diverse and dynamic, understanding and effectively managing these psychosocial challenges has emerged as a critical imperative. The paper investigated the provision of counselling services in handling psychosocial challenges among students in secondary schools in Tanzania with a focus on challenges and opportunities. The participants involved students and school counsellors. Data were collected through focus group discussions and interviews. The results show that limited resources, high student-to-counsellor ratio, inadequate training and professional development among school counsellors, and the focus on academic guidance. Others include integration into educational and training policies, a holistic approach, capacity building and training, peer support programmes and collaboration with NGOs and Community-Based Organizations were the challenges and opportunities facing counselling services in handling psychosocial challenges among students in secondary schools in Tanzania. Therefore, this study recommends the conduction of regular needs assessments to understand the evolving psychosocial challenges faced by students. This information can guide the development of targeted intervention strategies and resource allocation.
Obesity and Smoking are causal factors for meniscal injury: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: He Bin , Hou Zhiao , Wang Zicheng , Deng Qiu , Chen Ji , Xiang Tao , Xiao Hong , Ouyang Hanbin
Published: May 2024

Background Previous observational studies have indicated a potential link between obesity, smoking, and meniscal injury. However, it is important to note that these studies are vulnerable to reverse causation and residual confounding. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the causal estimates regarding the impact of these risk factors on meniscal injury. Methods In this study, single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with obesity and smoking were extracted as instrumental variables from the Gene-Wide Association Study database (GWAS). Data on genetic variants of meniscal injuries were obtained from the Finnish database. Heterogeneity of the data was assessed using IVW, MR-Egger and Cochran's Q statistics. Potential causality was assessed using inverse variance weighting, Mendelian randomisation Egger, and weighted median methods. Results Our study showed that obesity and smoking were causal factors for meniscal injuries. (Waist circumference: IVW: OR = 1.59; 95%CI = 1.41–1.80; P<0.001. Hip circumference: IVW: OR = 1.37; 95%CI = 1.23–1.53; P<0.001. BMI: IVW: OR = 1.53; 95%CI = 1.39–1.68; P<0.001. Smoking initiation: IVW: OR = 1.17; 95%CI = 1.00-1.37; P = 0.04. Current smoking: IVW: OR = 2.35; 95%CI = 1.18–4.66; P = 0.01. Past smoking: IVW: OR = 0.75; 95%CI = 0.62–0.90; P<0.01). Conclusion Our results enriched findings from previous epidemiology studies and provided evidence from MR that obesity and smoking have a clear causal effect on meniscal injuries.
Acute pyelonephritis in adults. Should we adopt the pediatric guidelines?
Authors: Neeman Binyamin B , Kafka Ilan , Mamber Ariel , Natsheh Ala Eldin , Koulikov Dmitry , Jaber jawdat , Chertin Boris
Published: May 2024

Purpose
There are no guidelines, what recommend pro or against CEVUS or VCUG for identification of VUR for adults who suffer from first episode of pyelonephritis. The aim of this study was to look at incidence of VUR in adults with first episode of pyelonephritis, and to highlight the necessity for recommending an investigation into reflux among these patients.
Methods
Retrospective study of all patients who admitted at our department in the past decade with the working diagnosis of pyelonephritis. Following discharge from the department, individuals with no pre-existing urological history were advised to undergo a VCUG or CEVUS to identify VUR.
Results
We have identified 76 patients (62 females and 14 males) with an average age of 31.73 years. 48(63%) presented with right pyelonephritis, 26(34%) with left and 2(3%) had bilateral disease. Of those, 23(30%) patients returned for clinical follow-up after completion of VCUG/CEVUS. Reflux was demonstrated in 14 (60%) patients comprising 18 renal refluxing units (RRU). 6 had grade IV reflux, 4 grade III, 4 grade II and 4 grade I respectively. DMSA demonstrated 27.2%±11.9% relative function of the reflux kidney. Of those VUR patients, 9 (64%) underwent endoscopic correction, one (7%) refused surgery and 4 (29%) are under clinical follow-up.
Conclusions
Our data demonstrate high incidence of VUR in these patients, therefore VUR investigation at least should be considered in adult patients even after first episode of pyelonephritis, especially in cases where there is evidence of nephronia, abscess, kidney scars, atrophic kidney or hydronephrosis.
Association of adipose tissue mediators with the development of cancer in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Sereda E. E. , Chernyshova A. L. , Mamonova T. Yu. , Kakurina G. V. , Yunusova N. V. , Sidenko E. A. , Korshunov D. A. , Kondakova I. V.
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study was to summarize the available data on the relationship between adipose tissue mediators and cancer in patients with metabolic syndrome. Material and methods. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed and eliBRARY databases. Of the 400 articles published over the past 20 years, 58 studies were included in the review. Results. There is evidence of an unfavorable course of cancer in patients with metabolic syndrome that is explained by the presence of common pathogenetic pathways. In this review, special attention is paid to adipose tissue mediators that regulate the course of inflammation. The involvement of adipose tissue mediators in the pathogenesis of cancer is discussed. The relationship between adipokines of adipose tissue and the effects of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SpRM), which are metabolites of polyunsaturated fatty acids (resolvins, protectins and maresins), are considered. the associations of mediators that regulate the intensity of inflammation with the metabolic syndrome and cancer are discussed. Conclusion. Further studies will contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between metabolic syndrome and cancer and the search for adequate predictive markers to select the most effective drug strategy for correcting metabolic syndrome.
Controversies in minimally invasive surgery for invasive cervical cancer
Authors: Churuksaeva O. N. , Kolomiets L. A. , Chernyshova A. L. , Villert A. B. , Ochirov M. O. , Trushchuk Yu. M. , Maltseva A. A. , Tashireva L. A.
Published: May 2024

Background. Determination of the feasibility of performing minimally invasive surgery for invasive cervical cancer and identification of criteria for optimal surgical access that ensures safety, effectiveness, and satisfactory immediate and long-term results remain challenging in gynecological oncology. The aim of the study was to evaluate the immediate and long-term treatment outcomes in patients with invasive cervical cancer who underwent radical hysterectomy via laparotomy compared to those who underwent minimally invasive surgery. Material and methods. Treatment outcomes of 91 patients with invasive carvical cancer were analyzed. The assessment of the objective tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy using the RECIST scale (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) was confirmed by clinical, ultrasound and CT/ MRI findings. The Kaplan-Maier curves and the log-rank criterion were used to compare the time of relapse-free and overall survivals. Statistical analysis and visualization of the analysis results were performed using prism 9.5.1 (GraphPad, USA). Results. The presence of parametrial lymphovascular space invasion and the frequency of lymphadenopathy were comparable for both groups of patients. there were no statistically significant differences in the number of the resected lymph nodes, but there was a statistically significant difference in volume of blood loss and the duration of surgery between the groups (p=0.0001). Every third patient was diagnosed with stage IIIC after surgery (pelvic lymph node lesion). Intraoperative complications were significantly lower in the laparoscopy group than in the laparotomy group (6.7 % vs 13 %). No significant differences in the proportion of relapses of the disease between the groups were found (9.6 % in the laparotomy group vs 11.7 % in the laparoscopy group). There were no significant differences in overall and relapse-free survival between the groups. Conclusion. Minimally invasive surgery is a promising and adequate surgical technique for the treatment of cervical cancer. However, additional studies are needed to determine the indications for these surgeries.