bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for Early Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality following Extremity Metastatic Pathologic or Impending Fracture Fixation
Authors: Wang Patrick Qi , Charron Brynn P. , Hali Kalter , Raleigh Matthew , Del Balso Christopher , Macleod Mark D. , Sanders David W. , Lawendy Abdel-Rahman
Published: September 2024

Background. As cancer survivorship continues to improve, the perioperative morbidity and mortality following surgical treatment of metastatic bone disease become an increasingly important consideration. The objective of this study is to identify risk factors for early postoperative complications and mortality following extremity prophylactic fixation and pathologic fracture stabilization. Methods. A single‐centre retrospective review of 185 patients (226 total surgeries) who underwent prophylactic fixation or pathologic fracture stabilization for extremity metastatic bone disease between 2005 and 2020 was performed. Skull, spine, pelvic, and revision surgeries along with diagnosis of primary bone neoplasm were excluded. Univariate, multivariate, and subgroup analyses were performed to identify predictors and independent risk factors for 30‐day postoperative morbidity and mortality. Results. Primary cancers included lung (n = 41), breast (n = 36), multiple myeloma (n = 35), prostate (n = 16), lymphoma (n = 11), renal cell carcinoma (n = 10), and other (n = 36). The 30‐day postoperative complication and mortality rates were 32.30% (n = 73) and 17.26% (n = 39), respectively. The most common complications were pulmonary‐related, cardiac events, surgical site infection, sepsis, and thromboembolism. Pathologic fracture, presence of extra‐skeletal metastases, longer surgical duration, and blood transfusion requirements were associated with 30‐day postoperative complications overall. A past medical history for cardiac disease was also associated with systemic but not local surgical complications. Pathologic fracture, presence of extra‐skeletal metastases, lung cancer, blood transfusion requirements, and increasing pack‐year smoking history were predictors for 30‐day mortality. In the multivariate analysis, pathologic fracture (p = 0.016) and presence of extra‐skeletal metastases (p = 0.029) were independent predictors of complications. For mortality, pathologic fracture (p = 0.014), presence of extra‐skeletal metastases (p = 0.0085), and increased blood transfusion requirements (p = 0.048) were independent risk factors. Conclusions. The findings of this study provide additional guidance for perioperative risk assessment and patient counselling. Additionally, improving clinical assessment tools to identify and quantify patients at risk of pathologic fractures becomes increasingly important given the significant morbidity and mortality associated with pathologic fracture treatment.
Characteristic Flavor Analysis of Inner Mongolia Air‐Dried Meat and the Impact of Vacuum Tumbling Curing on Flavor
Authors: Shiqi Hao , Jialu Du , Xueyin Sun , Guanhua Hu , Erke Sun , Xiaotong Li , Ye Jin , Lihua Zhao
Published: September 2024

Air‐dried beef is a traditional specialty dried meat product that has a rich history in Inner Mongolia. In‐depth understanding of the characteristic flavor substances of air‐dried meat in different regions can help branding of traditional air‐dried meat products and sustainable development of the air‐dried meat industry in Inner Mongolia. This study aims to investigate the characteristic flavors of air‐dried beef from various regions of Inner Mongolia (Ordos, Xinlingol, and Chifeng) by using electronic nose and GC‐MS combined with ROAV value and explore the impact of the vacuum tumbling curing process on the flavor of air‐dried meat. The samples from each region were found to contain characteristic flavor substances such as alcohols, aldehydes, hydrocarbons, and oxygenates. There are five characteristic flavor substances unique to the Ordos region: 3‐dodecanol (5.938), 4‐methyl‐5‐decanol (32.686), 2,4‐dimethyl‐2‐pentanol (4.139), methylheptenone (67.445), and 3‐ethyl‐2,5‐dimethylpyrazine (4.256); three characteristic flavor substances unique to the Xilingol region: isovaleraldehyde (68.917), ethyl phenylacetate (3.746), and thymol (2.091); and two characteristic flavor substances unique to the Chifeng region: 2‐heptanol (3.984) and 6‐methyl‐2‐heptanone (6.191). Vacuum tumbling curing not only improved the pH (6.35) and L∗ value (33.74) of air‐dried meat but also increased the variety of flavor substances characteristic of air‐dried meat, including trans‐2‐decenol (2.989), isopentanol (0.585), trans‐2‐nonenal (2.937), methyl decyl ketone (4.836), phenylacetic acid (4.262), and benzoic acid (0.554). In conclusion, the addition of vacuum tumbling curing process in the industrial production of air‐dried beef products can increase the curing efficiency and improve the flavor of air‐dried beef products.
An Injury Prevention Programme in Physical Education Teacher Education Students: Process Evaluation Using the RE‐AIM Sports Setting Matrix
Authors: Goossens Lennert , Cardon Greet , Witvrouw Erik , Verhagen Evert A. L. M. , De Clercq Dirk
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of an injury prevention programme for Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) students, consisting of an injury awareness module and implementing prevention strategies during intracurricular lessons. Participants from four PETE programmes formed the intervention group (n = 4 programme directors, n = 38 sports lecturers, n = 859 students), while those from four other programmes were the controls (n = 4 programme directors, n = 34 sports lecturers, n = 721 students). Programme directors and sports lecturers received a three‐hour workshop on sports injury prevention. The feasibility and effectiveness of the intervention were evaluated following the RE‐AIM Sports Setting Matrix. Reach, adoption, and implementation of the prevention strategies were high, but implementation of the awareness module was moderate, ranging from 25% to 75%. Maintenance in terms of intentions ranged from 25% to 75% for aspects of the awareness module and averaged 68% for the prevention strategies. Significantly more static stretching (p = 0.029), dynamic stabilisation (p < 0.001), and core stability (p = 0.001) were implemented in the intervention group compared to the control group. Injury prevention behaviour and knowledge in students did not increase after the intervention. In conclusion, moderate feasibility of an injury prevention intervention for PETE students was found. Sports lecturers implemented prevention strategies in their lessons frequently, but future interventions should develop more dissemination initiatives.
Nurses’ Perspectives and Understanding of Sarcopenia in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Khuankaew Kanjana , Limpawattana Panita , Manjavong Manchumad , Saengwijit Nutwara , Ojongpien Khanyanut , Tanlawan Prapassawan
Published: September 2024

Background. Sarcopenia is prevalent in older adults. It is essential for nurses to sustain updated information regarding the knowledge of sarcopenia, particularly in relation to approaches to diagnosing and addressing sarcopenia. However, there are limited studies examining the attitudes and awareness of nurses in relation to this condition. Objective. To assess the attitude and knowledge of nurses regarding sarcopenia and correlation between positive attitude and scores on knowledge. Materials and Methods. An electronic survey was carried out among the nurses of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, during November 2022 and January 2024. This survey encompassed questionnaires aimed at evaluating the nurses’ perspectives and understanding of sarcopenia. The participants were invited to complete the survey, and they were returned to the researchers for analysis. Results. A total of 231 nurses were recruited (response rate 46.2%). Only 58.4% of them were familiar with “sarcopenia,” while only 16% had confidence in diagnosing it. For general knowledge, they achieved a total score of 19/30 (63.3%). They demonstrated proficiency in “etiology” (75%), while their performance was fair in “management and prevention” (62.5%) and low in “terminology & importance” (50%) and “diagnosis” (50%). The correlation between positive attitude and knowledge on sarcopenia was 0.22 (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Nurses exhibited a reduced awareness regarding “sarcopenia.” Their comprehension about terminology, diagnosis, prevention, and management of this condition was limited. There was a weak correlation between positive attitude and knowledge. The findings emphasize the essentiality of augmenting the educational programs to enhance the recognition of sarcopenia among nurses.
Establishment of a STING‐Deficient HepG2 Cell Line through CRISPR/Cas9 System and Evaluation of Its Effects on Salmonella Replication
Authors: Sun Lanqing , Huang Kai , Huang Xuan
Published: September 2024

Background. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (Salmonella Typhimurium) is a common food‐borne pathogen that causes gastroenteritis and can lead to life‐threatening systemic disease when it spreads to vital organs, such as the liver. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a crucial regulator of the host’s innate immune response to viral infections, while its role in bacterial infections remains controversial. This study aims to establish a STING‐deficient HepG2 cell line through the CRISPR/Cas9 system and evaluate its effects on Salmonella replication. Methods. In this study, a STING knockout HepG2 cell line was constructed through the application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology. We assessed cell viability and proliferation using the CCK‐8 assay. Subsequently, we investigated the effect of STING deletion on Salmonella replication and the expression of type I interferon‐related genes. Results. The STING knockout HepG2 cell line was successfully constructed using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The proliferation capability was diminished in STING‐deficient HepG2 cells, while Salmonella Typhimurium replication in these cells was augmented compared to the wild‐type (WT) group. Following Salmonella infection, the transcriptional responses of type I interferon‐related genes, such as IFNB1 and ISG15, were inhibited in STING‐deficient HepG2 cells. Conclusions. We successfully constructed a STING‐deficient cell line. Our finding of increased Salmonella Typhimurium replication in STING‐deficient HepG2 cells provides the basis for further studies on pathogen‐host interactions.
Table S3 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

Drug transporter expression levels in H69AR vs H69
Figure S3 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

Figure S3 shows immunogenicity is induced in TREX1 depleted cells
Figure 1 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

TREX1 expression is induced in drug-resistant SCLC cell lines. A, Schematic of establishment of subpopulations from H69 SCLC cell line. B, Volcano plots of H3K27Ac ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq analyses comparing H69AR and H69 cells are shown. C, Venn diagrams for top-hits genes of H3K27Ac ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq, and genes listed in “GOBP_NEGATIVE_REGULATION_OF_IMMUNE_SYSTEM_PROCESS.” TREX1 was selected as one of the eight overlapped genes. D, ATAC-seq and H3K27Ac ChIP-seq analysis to compare H69, H69M, and H69AR cells. Results of the TREX1 gene region are shown. E, Expression levels of the TREX1 gene in H69, H69M, and H69AR cells were compared by qPCR (mean ± SEM; n = 3). F, Expression levels of TREX1, cGAS, and STING in H69, H69M, and H69AR cells were compared by immunoblotting. G, Expression levels of TREX1 in H69, DMS114 cells treated with etoposide (20 or 50 µmol/L) or DMSO were compared by immunoblotting. H, Drug sensitivity/resistance data of SCLC cell lines are summarized. Cells are lined up based on TREX1 expression levels. Data represent mean ± SEM. ns, not significant; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001 by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s multiple comparisons test (E).
Supplementary Table S4 from A Phase II Trial of the WEE1 Inhibitor Adavosertib in SETD2-Altered Advanced Solid Tumor Malignancies (NCI 10170)
Authors: Maldonado Edward , Rathmell W. Kimryn , Shapiro Geoffrey I. , Takebe Naoko , Rodon Jordi , Mahalingam Devalingam , Trikalinos Nikolaos A. , Kalebasty Arash R. , Parikh Mamta , Boerner Scott A. , Balido Celene , Krings Gregor , Burns Timothy F. , Bergsland Emily K. , Munster Pamela N. , Ashworth Alan , LoRusso Patricia , Aggarwal Rahul R.
Published: September 2024

Supplementary Table S4 is a table showing the representativeness of study participants.
Data from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most lethal type of lung cancer. Paradoxically, this tumor displays an initial exquisite response to chemotherapy; however, at relapse, the tumor is highly resistant to subsequent available therapies. Here, we report that the expression of three prime repair exonuclease 1 (TREX1) is strongly induced in chemoresistant SCLCs. Assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing revealed a significant increase in chromatin accessibility and transcriptional activity of TREX1 gene locus in chemoresistant SCLCs. Analyses of human SCLC tumors and patient-derived xenografts (PDX) also showed an increase in TREX1 expression in postchemotherapy samples. TREX1 depletion caused the activation of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase stimulator of interferon gene pathway due to cytoplasmic accumulation of damage-associated double-stranded DNA, inducing immunogenicity and enhancing the sensitivity of drug-resistant cells to chemotherapy. These findings suggest TREX1 upregulation may partially contribute to the survival of resistant cells, and its inhibition may represent a promising therapeutic strategy to enhance antitumor immunity and potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy in chemoresistant SCLCs.

Significance: In this study, we show that targeting TREX1 induces an innate immune response and resensitizes SCLC cells to chemotherapy, representing a promising novel target for “immunologically” cold tumors, such as SCLC.
Roller Coasters and Retinal Detachment: Case Series and Review of Acceleration-Deceleration Retinal Injury
Authors: Pickel Lauren , Cruz Pimentel Miguel , Naidu Sumana , Devenyi Robert G. , Mandelcorn Efrem , Yan Peng
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Anecdotal reports and limited reports suggest a possible link between activities involving rapid acceleration and retinal detachment. We present two novel such cases and review existing literature to investigate the plausibility of this association and delineate in what populations such an association may be more likely. Case Presentation: We report 2 cases of retinal detachment following roller coaster riding. The first, a 24-year-old woman with a family history of retinal detachment, presented with floaters after consecutive rides and was found to have an inferior temporal macula-sparing retinal detachment with associated retinal breaks. The second case, a 25-year-old female with a history of high myopia, presented with visual field defect and was found to have a macula-on retinal detachment with an accompanying tear at the edge of an area of lattice degeneration. Both were successfully treated with pneumatic retinopexy followed by laser retinopexy. Conclusion: Rapid acceleration/deceleration forces, such as those experienced on roller coasters, could potentially lead to retinal detachment. Structural predisposition is likely necessary for acceleration/deceleration injury to lead to retinal detachment, with all known cases having risk factors, including high myopia and positive family history. These same forces in eyes without structural predisposition have resulted in hemorrhage, but not detachment.
Applied Legal Hermeneutics in 18th-Century Fes: Al-Tāwudī’s Treatise on the Effect of Long Duration in bayʿ al-thunyā Transactions
Authors: Oberauer Norbert
Published: September 2024

The present study is an analysis of a treatise (risāla) by the 18th-century Mālikī al-Tāwudī in which he discusses a doctrinal detail regarding bayʿ al-thunyā, a common stratagem to circumvent the prohibition of interest. I use al-Tāwudī’s text as a lens to reconstruct the hermeneutical perspective of a Muslim jurist of the late premodern era. In the first section, I show that al-Tāwudī’s legal reasoning is strongly informed by the legacy of Mālikī discourse on bayʿ al-thunya, which is one of constant disagreement over the acceptability of the institution. In the course of this conflict, various doctrinal compromises were negotiated, only to be challenged again by the invention of new stratagems or by rigorist backlashes. Al-Tāwudī’s treatise must be understood as part of this doctrinal tug of war.

In the second section, I analyze al-Tāwudī’s epistemological premises. I show that his legal reasoning is strictly exegetical, except that the object of this exegesis is not Qurʾān and Sunna, as proposed in classical uṣūl al-fiqh, but the school’s literary corpus. This corpus, in turn, is hierarchically structured. It consists of many layers of texts, accumulated over centuries and tightly interwoven by intertextual references, with certain texts enjoying a particularly authoritative status. Against this background, reasoning becomes a game of artful referencing. Successful argumentation requires claiming a maximum of authority within the school tradition in support of one’s position.
Determining the Realm of the Dead through Metaphors: The Case of Gilgameš, Enkidu, and the Netherworld
Authors: Apostel Lilith , Krech Volkhard
Published: September 2024

In this article we provide a contribution to answering the question of how religious communication is possible. Religious communication is confronted with the essential paradox that statements about a principally inaccessible transcendence have to be made by immanent, known means. Metaphors, which we understand as mapping of a known source domain onto an unknown target domain, are particularly suitable for this purpose. We apply these assumptions to the Sumerian story Gilgameš, Enkidu, and the Netherworld to examine how the text is to be understood as religious communication. We identify the familiar physical and social spheres as the source domains and the netherworld as the unknown target domain. We show how the conceptual metaphor The netherworld is a physical place is elaborated by means of different slots, namely where the realm of the dead is located, how to get to and how to return from there, in which shape one is able to return from the netherworld, as well as how things are ordered there.
In Between Human–Animal Bodies: Transcorporeal Experiences in Hittite Anatolia
Authors: Della Casa Romina
Published: September 2024

This study traces material movement across human–nonhuman animal bodies (henceforth human–animal) during ritual performances in which patients from Hittite Anatolia spat into an animal’s mouth. It explores the transference of pollution through the lens of theoretical approaches that reflect on bodily margins and orifices as potent symbolic points of human bodies, as well as on bodily fluids as substances that can threaten inside/outside, subject/object distinctions. An examination of Hittite compositions from this theoretical perspective suggests that ritual patients were able, through spitting, and spittle, to release evils characterized primarily by being in between corporeality, social, and divine encounters, instead of freeing them principally from physical afflictions.
Apocalyptic Actors and Historical Trajectories in Mythic Discourse of Conspiracism
Authors: Saarinen Toni
Published: September 2024

Contemporary conspiracism draws on both long-standing traditions and the current cultural and political environment as it constructs mythic knowledge that often includes apocalyptic prophecies. Such knowledge is constantly altered and reinterpreted by the conspiracy activists who invest in its transmission and reproduction. This article examines how conspiracist mythologies emerge in the use of these activists as mythic discourse that fluidly adapts both to include past sources and to comment on late modern phenomena. Illustrative cases of Christian and popular millennial conspiracist narratives are analyzed in terms of how they construct the actors, organizations, power positions, and historical trajectories of the world. The article highlights how different conspiracist myths share features and stances, influenced by the currents of late modernity, but also contest each other based on what their sources and purposes are, and how they differ in their evaluation of the apocalyptic event’s nature.
Leucocortinarius brunnescens (Agaricales), a new species from southwestern China
Authors: HE JIN-FU , CAI QING , FAN XUE-PING , YANG ZHU L.
Published: September 2024

Leucocortinarius has long been regarded as a monotypic genus, with only one species, L. bulbiger, which was originally described from Europe. However, a new species of the genus, namely L. brunnescens, is described from southwestern China based on morphological characteristics, molecular phylogenetic evidence, and ecological traits. This species is very similar to L. bulbiger but differs from the latter by its lamellae becoming dark brown to blackish when dried, smaller basidiospores, and different DNA sequences.
Integrative taxonomy reveals the presence of a new species of Cyanea (Scyphozoa: Discomedusae: Semaeostomeae: Cyaneidae) from the West coast of Africa
Authors: SAMSODIEN YUSRA , BROWN MICHAEL K , GIBBONS MARK J
Published: September 2024

A new species of Cyanea is described from trawl samples collected in the Gulf of Guinea during 2017 and 2019. The species is a member of the nozakii-group, possessing interrupted radial septa, and is characterised by, inter alia, deeper rhopalial than velar marginal clefts, a uniformly papillose exumbrella, up to 200 tentacles per tentacle cluster and a dense network of anastomosing canals in broadly quadratic lappets. The species can be distinguished genetically from its congeners at both ITS1 and COI (minimum of 14.4% intergroup variation) regions as confirmed by multiple phylogenies and K2P analyses. This is the first record of a nozakii-group member in the Atlantic Ocean and the first description of the genus Cyanea from the west coast of Africa and the tropical Atlantic Ocean.
A novel cooling structure of narrow copper plate for small chamfered mold
Authors: Wang Guobin , Hongbiao Tao , Zhu Keran , Wang Minglin , Zhang Hui
Published: September 2024

A three-dimensional mathematical model of a narrow copper plate coupled with the cooling water is established to elucidate the heat transfer and cooling intensity in a small chamfered slab mold with original and redesigned schemes. Then, the precision of the models is validated by measured temperatures of the copper plate in actual production. The water boxes, bolts and thermocouple holes are considered, and the temperature distribution on different longitudinal and transverse planes is discussed. A novel one-hole and one-slot cooling structure is proposed for a small chamfered narrow copper plate. The results show that the Redesign1 scheme with an 8 mm diameter round hole makes the maximum temperature decrease from 673.5 to 644.0 K, reduced by 29.5 K. By analysing temperature uniformity on the hot face at maximum temperature transverse plane and second-row bolts transverse plane, it is found that the standard deviation value in Redesign1 decreases 8 to 10 K, compared with the Original scheme. Besides, it is seen from the Redesign1# scheme that while the water velocity of the round hole water slot can be controlled to be 9.24, 11.24 and 13.24 m s−1, the maximum values of copper plate temperature are reduced to 616.4, 606.9 and 599.3 K, respectively. Compared with the Original scheme values, the maximum temperature difference is 74.2 K. Hence, the cooling uniformity of the chamfered copper plate should be improved by increasing the water velocity of the round hole water slot.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Circadian Stimulus in Swedish Radiographers’ Light Environment
Authors: Viseu Camilla Krahmer Anes , Selvander Madeleine
Published: September 2024

Background: Timely light exposure is a vital aspect to achieve better sleep and well-being. As there are risks with a disturbed circadian rhythm and benefits with light settings that stimulate the rhythm, the circadian effective light, circadian stimulus (CS), for radiographers was examined. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare radiographers’ light environment on the workstations, at a university hospital in Southern Sweden in the form of CS and relate that to recommendations published by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. Method: A cross-sectional method has been applied. The measurements for CS were collected in all labs in the radiology department in the middle of January. Result: A total of 804 measures were evenly collected resulting in a median for the 19 labs, where the observed median for all labs was 0.091 CS which is significantly lower than the recommended value of 0.3 CS ( p < .001). Comparing work light settings with maximum light levels in the brightest and darkest labs showed a significant difference ( p < .001). Conclusion: The CS values in the labs, at the radiology department at a university hospital in Southern Sweden, do not reach the recommended values of circadian stimulus published by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency when the radiographers themselves set the light. There is a potential for improvement as a significant difference could be seen between the chosen level of light and the maximum possible level of light.
Apolipoprotein E E3/E4 genotype is associated with an increased risk of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with hypertension
Authors: Wei Guoliang , Li Bin , Wang Hao , Chen Li , Chen Wenhao , Chen Kehui , Wang Weihong , Wang Shen , Zeng Hui , Liu Yuanliang , Zeng Yue , Rao Hui
Published: September 2024

Objective

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms were associated with coronary atherosclerosis and hypertension. However, the relationship between APOE polymorphisms and coronary atherosclerosis susceptibility in hypertensive patients is unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship.

Methods

A total of 1713 patients with hypertension who were admitted to Meizhou People’s Hospital from November 2019 to August 2023 were retrospectively analyzed, including 848 patients with coronary atherosclerosis and 865 patients without coronary atherosclerosis. The rs429358 and rs7412 polymorphisms of APOE were genotyped, and relationship between APOE polymorphisms and the risk of coronary atherosclerosis in hypertensive patients were analyzed.

Results

There were 10 (0.6%), 193 (11.3%), 30 (1.8%), 1234 (72.0%), 233 (13.6%), and 13 (0.8%) individuals with APOE ɛ2/ɛ2, ɛ2/ɛ3, ɛ2/ɛ4, ɛ3/ɛ3, ɛ3/ɛ4, and ɛ4/ɛ4 genotype, respectively. The frequency of APOE ɛ3/ɛ4 was higher (16.4% vs. 10.9%, p = 0.001) in the patients with coronary atherosclerosis than controls. Logistic analysis showed that body mass index (BMI) ≥ 24.0 kg/m2 (24.0 kg/m2 vs. 18.5–23.9 kg/m2, odds ratio (OR): 1.361, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.112–1.666, p = 0.003), advanced age (≥ 65/<65, OR:1.303, 95% CI: 1.060–1.602, p = 0.012), history of smoking (OR: 1.830, 95% CI: 1.379–2.428, p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (OR: 1.380, 95% CI: 1.119–1.702, p = 0.003), hyperlipidemia (OR: 1.773, 95% CI: 1.392–2.258, p < 0.001), and APOE ɛ3/ɛ4 genotype (ɛ3/ɛ4 vs. ɛ3/ɛ3, OR: 1.514, 95% CI: 1.133–2.024, p = 0.005) were associated with coronary atherosclerosis in hypertensive patients.

Conclusions

Overweight (BMI ≥ 24.0 kg/m2), advanced age, history of smoking, diabetes mellitus, and APOE ɛ3/ɛ4 genotype were independent risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis in hypertensive patients.
The impact of an exercise and sport intervention on cognitive function and pain among forcibly displaced individuals at risk for PTSD: a secondary analysis of the SALEEM randomized controlled trial
Authors: Knappe Florian , Filippou Konstantinia , Hatzigeorgiadis Antonis , Morres Ioannis D. , Ludyga Sebastian , Seelig Harald , Tzormpatzakis Emmanouil , Havas Elsa , Theodorakis Yannis , von Känel Roland , Pühse Uwe , Gerber Markus
Published: September 2024

Background

In response to the global scope of forced displacement, international organizations highlight the need of scalable solutions to support individuals’ health and integration into host societies. Exposure to high mental and physical stress perceived before, during, and after displacement can impair functional capabilities, essential for adapting to a new environment. This secondary analysis examined the impact of an exercise and sport intervention on cognitive function and pain severity among individuals living in a refugee camp in Greece.

Methods

We implemented a randomized controlled trial involving n = 142 (52.8% women) forcibly displaced individuals from Southwest Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Participants were randomly assigned to a waitlist or a 10-week co-designed exercise and sport intervention with a 1:1 allocation rate between groups and sexes. Assessments at baseline and follow-up included the Flanker task, the Oddball paradigm, pain severity via visual analog scales, and the Åstrand-Rhyming indirect test of maximal oxygen uptake. We analyzed the intervention effects using structural equation modeling.

Results

Our findings did not indicate a direct intervention effect on cognitive function or pain (p ≥ .332). However, the intervention group significantly improved cardiorespiratory fitness, ß = .17, p = .010, which was associated with faster reaction times in cognitive tasks, ß =  − .22, p = .004. Moreover, there was some evidence that adherence might be linked to reduced pain severity, ß =  − .14, p = .065.

Conclusions

Exercise and sport did not directly impact cognitive function and pain severity among a sociodemographically diverse sample living in a refugee camp, suggesting the need for complementary measures. Nevertheless, our results indicate that improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness benefit aspects of attention.

Trial registration

The study was approved by the local ethics committee of the University of Thessaly (no. 39) and registered prospectively on February 8, 2021 at the ISRCTN registry (no. 16291983).
Beneficial effects of linoleic acid on cardiometabolic health: an update
Authors: Jackson Kristina H. , Harris William S. , Belury Martha A. , Kris-Etherton Penny M. , Calder Philip C.
Published: September 2024

Linoleic acid (LA), as a part of the wider debate about saturated, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) and health, continues to be at the center of controversy in the world of fatty acid research. A robust evidence base, however, demonstrates that higher intakes and blood levels of LA are associated with improved cardiometabolic health outcomes. LA lowers total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol when compared with saturated fatty acids and carbohydrates. Using large prospective datasets, higher blood levels of LA were associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and incident type-2 diabetes mellitus compared with lower levels, suggesting that, across the range of typical dietary intakes, higher LA is beneficial. Recent trials of LA-rich oils report favorable outcomes in people with common lipid disorders. However, an LA intake that is too high can impair endogenous synthesis of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), but the threshold at which this becomes clinically relevant is not known. In the absence of a significant intake of EPA and docosahexaenoic acid, an ideal dietary ratio of LA and ALA may be theoretically useful as it provides insight into the likely extent of endogenous EPA synthesis from ALA. Updating dietary reference intakes (DRIs) for LA and ALA is needed; however, there are insufficient data to establish RDAs for these fatty acids. The omega-6 (n-6) to omega-3 (n-3) PUFA ratio is not informative and does not shed meaningful insight about the amount of individual fatty acids in each class needed to confer health benefits.
Human papillomavirus type-specific distribution in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and cancer in The Gambia prior to HPV immunization programme: a baseline for monitoring the quadrivalent vaccine
Authors: Bah Haddy , Ceesay Foday , Leigh Ousman , Bah Haddy Tunkara , Savage Ahmad Tejan , Kimmitt Patrick T.
Published: September 2024

Background

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in Gambian women. Current estimates indicate that 286 women are annually diagnosed with cervical cancer with a fatality rate of 70%. In an attempt to address this, in 2019 the quadrivalent HPV vaccine was incorporated into the Gambia’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation. The study aims to retrospectively assess the prevalence and distribution of high-risk HPV genotype in archived, formalin fixed paraffin embedded cervical biopsy tissues diagnosed with cervical cancer in the Gambia from year 2013–2022.

Method

A total of 223 samples with histologically diagnosis of cervical cancer with adequate tissues were sectioned and deparaffinised, followed by HPV DNA extraction and the detection of HR-HPV by real-time multiplex PCR. The human β-globin gene was amplified in 119 samples, which were subsequently tested for HPV DNA.

Results

HPV was prevalent in 87.4% (104 of 119) cervical cancer cases, 12.6% (15/119) samples tested negative. Amongst cervical cancer cases, HPV 16 genotype was the most frequent type accounting for 53.8% (56 /104), followed by other HR-HPV genotypes 17.3% (18/104), and HPV genotype 18 was 15.4% (16/104). Furthermore, multiple HPV infections involving HPV 16 and /or 18 was detected in 14 cases as follows: HPV genotypes 16 and 18 (3.8%, 4 /104), HPV 16 and other HR-HPV (6.7%, 8/104), and HPV 18 and other HR-HPV (1.9%, 2/104). A significant association between age and diagnosis with cervical cancer (p = 0.02), and HPV genotype 16 (p = 0.04) was observed.

Conclusion

There was no difference in the distribution of HPV 16 and 18 genotypes in cervical cancer cases in The Gambia in comparison with the global distribution. However, the high prevalence of cervical cancer cases with other HR-HPV, and combined infections of HPV 16 with other HR-HPV genotypes seen in this study, clearly shows that the nonavalent HPV vaccine could be more beneficial for The Gambia. This study provides The Gambia with a baseline data to use in policy decisions regarding future evaluation of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine in the country.
An intervention study of poly-victimization among rural left-behind children based on the theoretical framework of planned behavior
Authors: Luo Yandong , Zhou Jiajun , Wen Pan , Chang Ping , Cao Zicheng , Li Liping
Published: September 2024

Background

Poly-victimization (PV) not only threatens physical and mental health but also causes a range of social problems. Left-behind children in rural areas are more likely to experience PV problems. However, there have been fewer studies on PV among rural children, and even fewer intervention studies.

Objective

The difference-in-differences method was employed to analyze the impact of intervention measures, based on the theory of planned behavior, on PV among left-behind children in rural areas.

Methods

The study subjects were left-behind children from six middle schools in two cities in southern China, who completed the baseline survey from 2020 to 2021. They were divided into a control group and an intervention group, each consisting of 228 cases, based on their schools. Before and after the intervention, the Self-made victimization-related knowledge, attitude, and practice questionnaire, Poly-victimization scale, and Middle school students’ coping style scale were used to evaluate the victimization-related KAP(knowledge, attitude, and practice), victimization occurrence, and coping styles of left-behind children, respectively. Stata 15.0 was used to establish a difference-in-differences regression model to analyze the impact of the intervention measures on poly-victimization and coping styles.

Results

Mixed Anova revealed that after the intervention, the KAP scores of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). After the intervention, the incidence of child victimization in the intervention group dropped to 9.60% (n = 22), lower than in the baseline survey, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.01). The incidence of PV among children in the intervention group was lower than that in the control group, with the difference being statistically significant (p < 0.01). The net reduction in the incidence of PV among children was 21.20%. After the intervention, the protection rate for preventing PV among children was 73.33%, and the effect index was 3.75. The intervention improved children’s coping styles, problem-solving, and help-seeking, while reducing negative coping styles such as avoidance and venting, with the differences being statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Intervention measures based on the theory of planned behavior reduce the occurrence of PV among left-behind children, and the intervention effects on different types of victimization are also different.
Perceptions of lifestyle-related risk communication in patients with breast and colorectal cancer: a qualitative interview study in Sweden
Authors: Grauman Åsa , Sundell Erica , Johansson Jennifer Viberg , Cavalli-Björkman Nina , Fahlquist Jessica Nihlén , Hedström Mariann
Published: September 2024

Background

Informing individuals about their risk of cancer can sometimes have negative consequences, such as inflicting unnecessary worry and fostering stigma. This study aims to explore how patients diagnosed with breast or colorectal cancer perceive and experience risk communication, particularly concerning the increased focus on lifestyle behaviors as the cause of cancer.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted during autumn 2023, with 23 Swedish individuals, aged 34 to 79 years, diagnosed with breast or colorectal cancer. The collected data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis described by Braun & Clark. The study adopted an experiential orientation grounded in critical realism.

Results

Five themes with ten sub-themes were identified: Thoughts and feelings about the causes of cancer, Moralizing messages and negative encounters, The need to take action, Balancing uncertain risks and a fulfilling life, and Societal benefits of risk communication. The participants expressed that knowledge of the the cause of cancer is closely related to the possibility of taking preventive action against relapses. Ability to take action was also perceived important for their well-being. Therefore, risk information entails both feelings of self-blame and hope for the future. Participants asked for both information and lifestyle support from healthcare professionals. Lifestyle interventions and patient support groups were solicited and perceived as an important aspect of cancer survivals’ well-being, and may help to reduce the cancer-related stigma.

Conclusion

Individuals that have or have had breast or colorectal cancer, including those leading healthy lifestyles, found moralistic risk information offensive, leading to feelings of shame when thinking about other peoples thoughts. Balancing information involves providing transparent, evidence-based information while considering individual and social contexts, avoiding stigmatization and blame, and supplementing information with support.
Proposal of a Creep-Experiment Method and Superficial Creep Coefficient Model of CFT Considering a Stress-Redistribution Effect
Authors: Kim Yu-A. , Lee Jung-Soo , Kwon Seung-Hee , Kim Jin-Kook
Published: September 2024

Existing concrete creep coefficient prediction models have the limitation of not considering the structural characteristics of CFT. For this reason, these models tend to overestimate the creep deformation of CFT. Therefore, in order to overcome the limitations of existing CFT creep experiments, this study proposes a creep-experiment method involving the use of CFT that passively changes the load applied to a single concrete specimen by calculating the stress redistribution between the concrete and a steel tube in CFT based on a step-by-step method. Furthermore, by actually applying the proposed experimental method, a creep experiment of CFT lasting for approximately 163 days was performed and a superficial creep coefficient model of CFT was proposed based on long-term strain data from the experiment. In order to verify the proposed superficial creep coefficient model, it was compared with two design criteria (CEB-FIP and ACI) based on the experimental results of this study and references. As a result, compared to the existing design criteria, the value predicted by the proposed superficial creep coefficient model showed good agreement with the experimental results of this study and the references, proving that the proposed creep-experiment method of CFT and superficial creep coefficient model are reasonable.
Digital improvements in the design and construction process of classical Chinese garden rockeries: a study based on material digitization
Authors: Wang Zhe , Song Penghao , Zhang Qingping , Wei Tianheng , Pan Ben
Published: September 2024

Rockeries have a complex and significant role in classical Chinese garden designs. They present distinct artistic characteristics and spatial hierarchies and are crucial to garden heritage conservation. Craftsmanship in rockery construction is a significant part of China’s intangible cultural heritage. Rockeries are primarily composed of naturally occurring rocks chosen for their uniqueness and complex shapes and textures. These rocks present challenges as nonstandard elements within the traditional Chinese garden context, as it is not easy to depict them using conventional blueprints and models. This complicates the design, adjustment, display, and construction of rockeries, which lacks tangible bases for reference. Consequently, the preservation and restoration of garden rockeries is difficult, and the perpetuation and dissemination of rockery construction skills face numerous challenges. This study introduces a method that combines laser scanning and photographic measurements to digitize precisely nonstandard elements of rockery stones. This approach presents an innovative design and construction workflow for rockeries by refining design processes, showcasing real effects, and resolving assembly issues. The results demonstrate that the combination of three-dimensional laser scanning and close-range photogrammetry can accurately replicate the complex forms and textures of these nonstandard elements. The stone coding and digital management system devised based on the logic of construction effectively satisfies the design and building requirements of rockeries. Correspondingly, the proposed digital construction workflow enhances the accuracy of rockery design, presentation, and evaluation, thereby contributing to the protection and restoration of rockery heritage sites and the transmission of rockery construction techniques.
Analysis of the seismic isolation characteristics of the overall friction pendulum bearing (OFPB) of a pagoda under three types of seismic actions
Authors: He Qing , Liu Dewen , Lei Min , Li Xiaopeng , Wu Haoxuan
Published: September 2024

In this study, the seismic performance of an ancient pagoda with significant historical and cultural values in China is upgraded by using overall friction pendulum bearing (OFPB) seismic isolation technology, This technique can be used to isolate the pagoda without damaging it. By implementing the OFPB seismic isolation retrofit on the pagoda and comparing and analyzing it with the unretrofitted seismic model, the response of the pagoda under the action of nine seismic waves of three types, namely, near-field earthquakes, far-field earthquakes, and common earthquakes, is investigated. The results show that the OFPB seismic isolation technique significantly reduces the seismic response of the ghats, in which the acceleration amplification factor is reduced by a maximum of 82.46%, the inter-story displacement is reduced by a maximum of 85.15%, and the base shear force is reduced by a maximum of 96.76%. In addition, the tensile damage of the ghats with OFPB seismic isolation was significantly controlled. While the model without seismic isolation has serious damage under the same seismic action and even faces the risk of collapse. The results of the study confirm that the OFPB seismic isolation technology plays a key role in improving the seismic performance of the tower, which is of great theoretical and practical significance to the protection of the tower, and provides an effective technical way for the protection of the tower in the seismic-prone areas.
Potentilla fulgens Wall. Ex sims. Upregulates insulin receptor substrate 1 and Akt in alloxan-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Sunn Shelareen Ediemi , Pakyntein Careen Liza , Thabah Daiahun , Kharshiing Cynthia Erica , Banerjee Sagnik , Rai Anita Kumari , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Syiem Donkupar
Published: September 2024

Background

Potentilla fulgens Wall. ex Sims. is a medicinal plant used by the locals of Meghalaya. However, its mechanism of action has not been well elucidated. Hence, this study investigated the effect of P. fulgens on IRS1 and Akt. The interaction of the various polyphenols present in P. fulgens with the IR tyrosine kinase and IRS1 PTB domain was studied using auto dock. Changes in expression of antioxidant enzymes, IRS-1, Akt and behavior of normal, diabetic, and diabetic mice treated mice were assessed after 14 days of treatment. Morphological changes in the liver tissue were determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy.

Results

The effect of P. fulgens on blood glucose was time and dose dependent. Treatment with P. fulgens, Cat, E, CE, CEP and metformin improved the activity of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glycogen, IRS-1 and Akt. The Forced Swimming test showed an altered behavior in diabetic mice. The altered mobility was reverted back to near normal on treatment with P.fulgens, Cat, E, CE, CEP and metformin. The morphological aberrations seen in diabetic animals considerably improved in the treated diabetic group.

Conclusion

P. fulgens and its phytochemicals-catechin and epicatechin are potent sources of antidiabetic drugs, possibly mediating their effects through upregulation of insulin IRS-1 and Akt.