bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Emotional Text Mining to Explore the Cultural Representation of Organ Donation in Spanish and Italian Culture
Authors: Monaco Silvia , Cortellino Anna , Massari Maria Giovanna , Di Trani Michela , Greco Francesca
Published: April 2023

Spain is considered the world leader in the field of Organ Donation (OD). Italy has adopted the Spanish model in its health system but failed to reach the Spanish primacy. This work investigates the cultural elements influencing the choice to donate in Italy and Spain. We collected from two newspapers of Italy and Spain, all the published articles (2001–2021), containing the respective translation of OD. The two final corpora were analyzed through the Emotional Text Mining methodology. The analysis produced 4 CR for the Italian corpus and 5 CR for the Spanish one. The principal CR for Spain is viewing the OD as a national project, while in Italy, the donation is viewed as a life-saving product. In Italy, the theme of death is viewed as unacceptable. In Spain, the principal context in which donation is discussed is the family. Another difference is related to the developmental process: Italy is rooted in established promotional models, while in Spain, the desire for innovation emerges. Finally, OD is connected to other fields in Spain. In conclusion, this study allowed us to understand deep cultural differences between Spain and Italy in OD. Results ought to be used to improve promotional campaigns to citizens.
Indigenous people in urban context and historical memory: Paths for psychology indigenous people in urban context and psychology
Authors: Feldmann Mariana , Guzzo Raquel Souza Lobo
Published: April 2023

This article summarizes the results of a doctoral thesis based on the psychosocial perspective and was justified by the indigenous presence in the city and the lack of public policies that respond to the real demands of the population. It aimed to investigate who the indigenous people are in an urban context and how historical memory is present in the construction of their identity, identifying them as a tool of resistance to colonization. Based on the Participation-Action-Research, the sources of information were field diaries and interviews with three indigenous representatives from two organized groups. From the Constructive-Interpretive Analysis, it can be concluded that the historical memory is configured as a tool in which it expands the identity dimension, making it possible to recognize oneself as an indigenous person from the historical records of memory, favoring the strengthening and resistance in the face of violence experienced in everyday life. In addition, the importance of collective spaces for strengthening the subject was evident.
A novel dynamic dry friction model for applications in mechanical dynamical systems
Authors: Chaturvedi Ekansh , Mukherjee Jyotirmoy , Sandu Corina
Published: April 2023

This work presents a novel continuously differentiable, dynamic dry friction model, with dependence on normal contact force, slip velocity, and static and dynamic coefficients of friction. The state-of-the-art, Brown and McPhee friction model depends on transitional velocity, which is an empirical parameter. A limitation with this model is that there is no generic approach to select the optimal value for the transitional velocity for a certain application. The simulation results presented in this work highlight the sensitivity of friction force with transitional velocity in Brown and McPhee’s model to obtain smooth solutions, which are supportive in control system applications. It is because control systems require jitter-free signals in order to save costs on low-pass filters. The proposed model overcomes such empirical dependence on transition velocity through a combination of an iterative methodology and an empirical parameterization. In this article, a comprehensive analysis of the proposed friction model and the contributing parameters is carried out. The algorithm to implement the proposed friction model is elaborated. The proposed friction model is then simulated and compared against Brown and McPhee’s model. using a stick-slip benchmark problem. Furthermore, the proposed force model is applied to two spatial multibody systems formulated using index 0 tangent space differential-algebraic equations. The results demonstrate how the proposed friction model can be employed in dynamical mechanical systems. The independence on transitional velocity in the proposed friction model is observed to be effective for obtaining smooth solutions that make it suitable for control system applications.
Parametric evaluation of ducted fuel injection in an optically accessible mixing-controlled compression-ignition engine with two- and four-duct assemblies
Authors: Yraguen Boni Frances , Steinberg Adam Michael , Nilsen Christopher William , Wengrove Drummond Edward , Mueller Charles Jeffery
Published: April 2023

Ducted fuel injection (DFI) is a strategy to improve fuel/charge-gas mixing in direct-injection compression-ignition engines. DFI involves injecting fuel along the axis of a small tube in the combustion chamber, which promotes the formation of locally leaner mixtures in the autoignition zone relative to conventional diesel combustion. Previous work has demonstrated that DFI is effective at curtailing engine-out soot emissions across a wide range of operating conditions. This study extends previous investigations, presenting engine-out emissions and efficiency trends between ducted two-orifice and ducted four-orifice injector tip configurations. For each configuration, parameters investigated include injection pressure, injection duration, intake manifold pressure, intake manifold temperature, start of combustion timing, and intake-oxygen mole fraction. For both configurations and across all parameters, DFI reduced engine-out soot emissions compared to conventional diesel combustion, with little effect on other emissions and engine efficiency. Emissions trends for both configurations were qualitatively the same across the parameters investigated. The four-duct configuration had higher thermal efficiency and indicated-specific engine-out nitrogen oxide emissions but lower indicated-specific engine-out hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions than the two-duct assembly. Both configurations achieved indicated-specific engine-out emissions for both soot and nitrogen oxides that comply with current on- and off-road heavy-duty regulations in the United States without exhaust-gas aftertreatment at an intake-oxygen mole fraction of 12%. High-speed in-cylinder imaging of natural soot luminosity shows that some conditions include a second soot-production phase late in the cycle. The probability of these late-cycle events is sensitive to both the number of ducted sprays and the operating conditions.
The Evolution of Science Education: You Don’t Know? YouTube It
Authors: Barlis Jose M. , Fajardo Josefin D. , Manila Benjie M.
Published: April 2023

Teachers can increase the retention of their students’ attention and lead them to be engrossed in new, different, and innovative ways using videos. In the present condition wherein, all educational institutions are implementing hybrid learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, technologies are becoming an inseparable part of students’ life. This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of YouTube in teaching Science Education. The researchers employed a quasi-experimental research design using 30 first-year students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Bataan Branch as respondents. Two groups were used in the study, the control and experimental groups, from the two sections of the same program. The study found that the performance of both groups, and students’ scores increased significantly from the pretest to the posttest. Moreover, the experimental group’s performance increased significantly compared to the traditional group. Thus, both teaching methodologies are effective in teaching science education to students. Teachers may utilize different teaching methodologies to augment the needs of the learners regardless of the situation. The main goal of the teachers is to facilitate learning and to ensure that the learners will be able to grasp all the needed information during their academic period.
Attentional Bias Among High and Low Ruminators: Eye Tracking Study in a Non-Clinical Population
Authors: Arenliu Aliriza , Konjufca Jon , Meiran Nachshon , Weine Stevan , Langenecker Scott A.
Published: April 2023

Rumination, which can be studied through its associated attentional biases, and is a part of the RDoC Negative Valence Systems constructs of Loss, has been proposed as a key transdiagnostic feature in depression. The current study uses eye tracking measurements to explore how different levels of brooding and reflection rumination interact with attentional biases in a non-clinical sample of high and low ruminators. Methodology: 123 adults were administered questionnaires of rumination, depression and participated in passive viewing task in which they watched sets of angry, happy, sad and neutral faces, while their eye movements were tracked. Findings indicate greater sustained attention toward sad and angry faces and away from happy faces among non-clinical individuals with high levels of brooding rumination, even when controlling for depression scores. The study adds further evidence that brooding rumination and attentional biases to negative stimuli are associated with one another. Behavioral parameters such as attention bias to help us to distinguish high ruminators among non-clinical sample.
Outcomes After Concomitant Hip Arthroscopy and Periacetabular Osteotomy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lee Michael S. , Fong Scott , Owens Jade S. , Mahatme Ronak J. , Kim David N. , Gillinov Stephen M. , Moran Jay , Simington Jacquelyn , Islam Wasif , Abu Seyi , Jimenez Andrew E.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Despite several studies’ reports on outcomes of concomitant hip arthroscopy and periacetabular osteotomy (PAO), there is a paucity of aggregate data in the literature.

Purpose:

To evaluate outcomes and survivorship after concomitant hip arthroscopy and PAO.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were searched in April 2022 using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The following keywords were used: (hip OR femoroacetabular impingement) AND (arthroscopy OR arthroscopic) AND (periacetabular osteotomy or rotational osteotomy) AND (outcomes OR follow-up). Of 270 articles initially identified, 10 studies were ultimately included. The following information was recorded for each study if available: publication information; study design; study period; patient characteristics; follow-up time; indications for hip arthroscopy; patient-reported outcomes (PROs); rates of secondary hip preservation surgeries; and rates of conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA). Survivorship was defined as nonconversion to THA.

Results:

The study periods for the 10 included articles ranged from 2001 to 2018. Three studies were level 3 evidence, and 7 studies were level 4 evidence. This review included 553 hips with a mean follow-up of 1 to 12.8 years. All 10 studies listed dysplasia as an indication for surgery. Of 9 studies that reported PRO scores, 7 reported significant improvement after surgery. Studies with a <5-year follow-up reported conversion to THA rates of 0% to 3.4% and overall secondary surgery rates of 0% to 10.3%. Similarly, studies with >5-year follow-up reported conversion to THA rates of 0% to 3% and overall secondary surgery rates of 0% to 10%.

Conclusion:

Patients who underwent concomitant hip arthroscopy and PAO reported favorable outcomes, with 7 of the 9 studies that provided PRO scores indicating significant preoperative to postoperative improvement.
Association of Infrapatellar Fat Pad Fibrosis at 3 Months After ACL Reconstruction With Short-term Clinical Outcomes and Inflammatory Cytokine Levels in the Synovial Fluid
Authors: Nakagawa Yusuke , Tsuji Kunikazu , Nakamura Tomomasa , Katagiri Hiroki , Ozeki Nobutake , Shioda Mikio , An Jae-Sung , Yoshida Ryu , Sekiya Ichiro , Koga Hideyuki
Published: April 2023

Background:

Infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) fibrosis is reportedly associated with anterior knee pain and the progression of patellofemoral osteoarthritis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). However, causes of IFP fibrosis after ACLR have not been sufficiently investigated.

Purpose:

To compare the descriptive characteristics, clinical outcomes, and inflammatory cytokine levels in the synovial fluid between patients who underwent ACLR with versus without severe IFP fibrosis.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients who underwent primary ACLR using autologous hamstring tendon were divided into 2 groups based on magnetic resonance imaging IFP fibrosis scoring (grades 0-5) at 3 months after surgery: the severe fibrosis group (grades 4 and 5) and mild fibrosis group (grades 0-3). Synovial fluid was aspirated on postoperative day 3 or 4 to measure inflammatory cytokine levels. Patient characteristics, clinical outcomes at 3 and 12 months after surgery, and inflammatory cytokine (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor–α, and interferon-γ) levels were compared between the groups.

Results:

Of the 36 patients included, 7 were allocated to the severe fibrosis group and 29 were allocated to the mild fibrosis group. The severe fibrosis group had a significantly longer operation time (153.0 vs 116.5 minutes for mild fibrosis; P = .007). Compared with the mild fibrosis group, the severe fibrosis group had greater pain during stair climbing (2.0 vs 0.7; P = .01) and a lower extension muscle strength ratio (operated/healthy side, 52.9% vs 76.1%; P < .001) at 3 months, and the severe fibrosis group had a lower Lysholm score (93.7 vs 97.3; P = .026) and greater knee extension (0.3° vs 1.9°; P = .043) and flexion angle restriction (142.9° vs 149.0°; P = .013) at 12 months. The severe fibrosis group demonstrated higher IL-1β (2.6 vs 1.4 pg/mL; P = .022), IL-6 (2.0 vs 1.1 ng/mL; P = .029), and interferon-γ levels (11.3 vs 4.0 pg/mL; P = .044).

Conclusion:

Severe IFP fibrosis was associated with a longer operation time, higher inflammatory cytokine level in the synovial fluid, and worse clinical outcomes at 3 and 12 months after ACLR.
Book review: Manju Bala, Dalit Kotha: The Subaltern Voice in a Bengali Woman’s Narratives
Authors: Islam Nurul
Published: April 2023

Manju Bala, Dalit Kotha: The Subaltern Voice in a Bengali Woman’s Narratives. Authors Press, 2022, 168 pp., ₹995 (paperback). ISBN: 978-93-5529-370-1.
Immunogenicity and safety of vaccination in children with paediatric rheumatic diseases: a scoping review
Authors: Cunninghame Jacqueline , Wen Sophie , Dufficy Mitchell , Ullman Amanda , Takashima Mari , Cann Megan , Doyle Rebecca
Published: April 2023

Children with paediatric rheumatic diseases (PRDs) are at increased risk of vaccine-preventable disease. Safe and effective vaccination is central to preventive care in PRD patients; however, uncertainty surrounding immunogenicity and safety has contributed to suboptimal vaccination. The aim of this study was to evaluate treatment effect on immunogenicity to vaccination in PRD patients and assess vaccine safety, specifically adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) and disease flare. Scoping review. In this scoping review, a systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL and Embase databases was conducted from 2014 to 23 August 2022 to identify observational studies evaluating the immunogenicity and safety of commonly used vaccinations in PRD patients. The primary outcome was immunogenicity (defined as seroprotection and protective antibody concentrations), with secondary outcomes describing AEFI and disease flare also extracted. Due to extensive heterogeneity related to diagnostic and vaccination variability, narrative synthesis was used to describe the findings of each study. Study quality was assessed via the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022307212). The search yielded 19 studies evaluating immunogenicity to vaccination and incidence of AEFI and disease flares in this population, which were of acceptable quality. Corticosteroids did not have deleterious effects on vaccine response. Treatment with conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic DMARDs generally had no effect immunogenicity in PRD patients. While patients exhibited adequate seroprotection, protective antibody levels were lower in patients on some immunosuppressant agents. Varicella infections were recorded post vaccination in several patients with low protective antibody levels undergoing treatment with DMARDs and corticosteroids. Most vaccines appear safe and effective in PRD patients, despite immunosuppressant treatment. Booster vaccinations should be considered with some studies highlighting inadequate seroprotection following primary course of vaccinations with acceleration of antibody decline over time. There was limited evidence to support avoiding live vaccines in PRD patients.
Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation With Distal Femoral Osteotomy
Authors: Meeks Brett D. , Ulrich Marisa N. , Duerr Robert A. , Flanigan David C.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Meniscal allograft transplantation improves functional and patient-reported outcomes in patients with meniscal deficiency without significant osteoarthritis. In addition, it is known that valgus malalignment of the knee can lead to meniscal and chondral damage, and surgery is often indicated to restore the mechanical axis and slow progression of osteoarthritis.

Indications:

Indications for this procedure include patients with symptomatic lateral meniscal deficiency with associated valgus deformity of the knee. Patient’s age must be less than 50 years, body mass index less than 35 kg/m2, meniscal deficiency, and ipsilateral pain with or without swelling. Ligament tears, focal cartilage loss, and malalignment are not contraindications if also corrected.

Technique Description:

We begin by removing the remaining lateral meniscus, taking care to leave a small peripheral rim of meniscus. A transpatellar tendon arthrotomy is performed, and the meniscal allograft is passed through the arthrotomy and into the knee. An inside-out repair is performed using vertical mattress sutures. The sutures are tightened and tied with the knee at 30° to 40° of flexion. The distal femoral osteotomy is then performed. An approach is made to the lateral femur, where initial guidewires are placed using fluoroscopic guidance. The initial saw cut is made about 75% of the way across the femur, and an osteotome is used to complete the osteotomy. Care is taken to preserve the far medial cortex. An adjustable wedge osteotome is placed to open the lateral cortex in accordance with the preoperative template. The cortical wedge is fashioned using the tibial allograft from the meniscal transplant and is placed into the osteotomy. The osteotomy is secured using a locking plate with locking screws, and this is confirmed in safe position using fluoroscopy prior to the conclusion of the case.

Results:

Patients will have effective deformity correction and alleviation of pain. Many patients can return to sport without restrictions following appropriate rehabhilitation.

Conclusion:

Lateral meniscal allograft transplantation with distal femoral opening wedge osteotomy is an effective treatment for symptomatic lateral meniscal insufficiency with associated valgus deformity of the knee in patients without osteoarthritis.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Mesenchymal stem cells reversibly de-differentiate myofibroblasts to fibroblast-like cells by inhibiting the TGF-β-SMAD2/3 pathway
Authors: Xu Ruohao , Wu Miao , Wang Yawen , Li Chao , Zeng Lingji , Wang Yulian , Xiao Maozhi , Chen Xiaomei , Geng Suxia , Lai Peilong , Du Xin , Weng Jianyu
Published: April 2023

Background

Myofibroblasts (MFB), one of the major effectors of pathologic fibrosis, mainly derived from the activation of fibroblast to myofibroblast transition (FMT). Although MFBs were historically considered terminally differentiated cells, their potential for de-differentiation was recently recognized and implied with therapeutic value in treating fibrotic diseases, for instance, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation bronchiolitis obliterans (BO). During the past decade, several methods were reported to block or reverse MFB differentiation, among which mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have demonstrated potential but undetermined therapeutic values. However, the MSC-mediated regulation of FMT and underlying mechanisms remained largely undefined.

Method

By identifying TGF-β1 hypertension as the pivotal landmark during the pro-fibrotic FMT, TGF-β1-induced MFB and MSC co-culture models were established and utilized to investigate regulations by MSC on FMT in vitro. Methods including RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), Western blot, qPCR and flow cytometry were used.

Result

Our data revealed that TGF-β1 readily induced invasive signatures identified in fibrotic tissues and initiated MFB differentiation in normal FB. MSC reversibly de-differentiated MFB into a group of FB-like cells by selectively inhibiting the TGF-β-SMAD2/3 signaling. Importantly, these proliferation-boosted FB-like cells remained sensitive to TGF-β1 and could be re-induced into MFB.

Conclusion

Our findings highlighted the reversibility of MSC-mediated de-differentiation of MFB through TGF-β-SMAD2/3 signaling, which may explain MSC's inconsistent clinical efficacies in treating BO and other fibrotic diseases. These de-differentiated FB-like cells are still sensitive to TGF-β1 and may further deteriorate MFB phenotypes unless the pro-fibrotic microenvironment is corrected.
Experimental Study on the Reduction Effect of Pit Texture on Disassembly Damage for Interference Fit
Authors: Zhou Dan , Xu Yi , Gao Xin , Huang Haihong , Lv Songjiang
Published: April 2023

After remanufacturing disassembly, several kinds of friction damages can be found on the mating surface of interference fit. These damages should be repaired and the cost is closely related to the severity of damages. Inspired by the excellent performance of surface texture in wear reduction, 5 shapes of pit array textures are added to the specimens’ surface to study their reduction effect of disassembly damage for interference fit. The results of disassembly experiments show that the order of influence of texture parameters on disassembly damage is as follows: equivalent circle diameter of single texture, texture shape and texture surface density. The influence of equivalent circle diameter of single texture and texture shape are obviously more significant than that of texture surface density. The circular texture with a surface density of 30% and a diameter of 100 μm shows an excellent disassembly damage reduction effect because of its perfect ability of abrasive particle collection. And the probability of disassembly damage formation and evolution is also relatively small on this kind of textured surface. Besides, the load-carrying capacity of interference fit with the excellent texture is confirmed by load-carrying capacity experiments. The results show that the load-carrying capacity of the excellent texture surface is increased about 40% compared with that of without texture. This research provides a potential approach to reduce disassembly damage for interference fit.
Design and Implementation of a Battery Big Data Platform Through Intelligent Connected Electric Vehicles
Authors: Xiong Rui , Zhu Baoqiang , Zhang Kui , Duan Yanzhou , Sun Fengchun
Published: April 2023

The development of a battery management algorithm is highly dependent on high-quality battery operation data, especially the data in extreme conditions such as low temperatures. The data in faults are also essential for failure and safety management research. This study developed a battery big data platform to realize vehicle operation, energy interaction and data management. First, we developed an electric vehicle with vehicle navigation and position detection and designed an environmental cabin that allows the vehicle to operate autonomously. Second, charging and heating systems based on wireless energy transfer were developed and equipped on the vehicle to investigate optimal charging and heating methods of the batteries in the vehicle. Third, the data transmission network was designed, a real-time monitoring interface was developed, and the self-developed battery management system was used to measure, collect, upload, and store battery operation data in real time. Finally, experimental validation was performed on the platform. Results demonstrate the efficiency and reliability of the platform. Battery state of charge estimation is used as an example to illustrate the availability of battery operation data.
Facile synthesis and characterization of Fe3O4/analcime nanocomposite for the efficient removal of Cu(II) and Cd(II) ions from aqueous media
Authors: Algethami Faisal K. , Al-Wasidi Asma S. , Al-Farraj Eida S. , Katouah Hanadi A. , Abdelrahman Ehab A.
Published: April 2023

In the water purification field, heavy metal pollution is a problem that causes severe risk aversion. This study aimed to examine the disposal of cadmium and copper ions from aqueous solutions by a novel Fe3O4/analcime nanocomposite. A field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the synthesized products. The FE-SEM images showed that the analcime and Fe3O4 samples consist of polyhedral and quasi-spherical shapes with average diameters of 923.28 and 28.57 nm, respectively. Besides, the Fe3O4/analcime nanocomposite consists of polyhedral and quasi-spherical shapes with average diameters of 1100.00 nm. The greatest uptake capability of the Fe3O4/analcime nanocomposite toward the copper and cadmium ions is 176.68 and 203.67 mg/g, respectively. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir equilibrium isotherm best describe the uptake of copper and cadmium ions using the Fe3O4/analcime nanocomposite. The uptake of copper and cadmium ions using the Fe3O4/analcime nanocomposite is exothermic and chemical in nature.
Echinococcosis of the detrusor: report of the first pediatric case
Authors: Haif Assia , Achouri Djelloul , Merouani Mohamed Yacine , Ouhida Sorya
Published: April 2023

Background

The parasitic disease known as the cystic echinococcosis (CE) is brought on by cysts made up of the larval forms (metacestodes) of Echinococcus tapeworms. In North Africa, it is greater in rural regions. This is unusual for a primary supravesical position.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 6-year-old boy who had a palpable abdominal mass with hypogastric abdominal pain.

A pelvic ultrasound examination demonstrated a voluminous intra-abdominal supravesical cystic formation with clear limits and regular contours of heterogeneous anechogenic echostructure and the presence of multiple hyperechoic septa separating the cubicles (daughter vesicles) in a honeycomb pattern. Computed tomography confirmed a cystic echinococcosis stage III of the pelvis.

After a laparotomy surgery with total cystectomy, the patient was discharged with prescribed albendazole 10 mg/kg/day. Cystic echinococcosis was established by histological analysis.

The aim is to demonstrate that from a literature search, we think this is the first case of cystic echinococcosis of the detrusor in children.

Conclusion

Primary pelvic cystic echinococcosis is uncommon and even less common among children. Cystic echinococcosis must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis when there is an abdominal mass, particularly in locations where it is prevalent.
Identification of mitophagy-related biomarkers and immune infiltration in major depressive disorder
Authors: Zhang Jing , Xie Shujun , Xiao Rong , Yang Dongrong , Zhan Zhi , Li Yan
Published: April 2023

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a life-threatening and debilitating mental health condition. Mitophagy, a form of selective autophagy that eliminates dysfunctional mitochondria, is associated with depression. However, studies on the relationship between mitophagy-related genes (MRGs) and MDD are scarce. This study aimed to identify potential mitophagy-related biomarkers for MDD and characterize the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

The gene expression profiles of 144 MDD samples and 72 normal controls were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and the MRGs were extracted from the GeneCards database. Consensus clustering was used to determine MDD clusters. Immune cell infiltration was evaluated using CIBERSORT. Functional enrichment analyses were performed to determine the biological significance of mitophagy-related differentially expressed genes (MR-DEGs). Weighted gene co-expression network analysis, along with a network of protein–protein interactions (PPI), was used to identify key modules and hub genes. Based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis and univariate Cox regression analysis, a diagnostic model was constructed and evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves and validated with training data and external validation data. We reclassified MDD into two molecular subtypes according to biomarkers and evaluated their expression levels.

Results

In total, 315 MDD-related MR-DEGs were identified. Functional enrichment analyses revealed that MR-DEGs were mainly enriched in mitophagy-related biological processes and multiple neurodegenerative disease pathways. Two distinct clusters with diverse immune infiltration characteristics were identified in the 144 MDD samples. MATR3, ACTL6A, FUS, BIRC2, and RIPK1 have been identified as potential biomarkers of MDD. All biomarkers showed varying degrees of correlation with immune cells. In addition, two molecular subtypes with distinct mitophagy gene signatures were identified.

Conclusions

We identified a novel five-MRG gene signature that has excellent diagnostic performance and identified an association between MRGs and the immune microenvironment in MDD.
Three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound is a practical tool for the assessment of anal fistula
Authors: Ren Junyi , Bai Wenkun , Gu Liangrui , Li Xiao , Peng Xue , Li WeiMei
Published: April 2023

Objective

This study aims to investigate the diagnostic value of three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound in the preoperative assessment of anal fistula compared with findings of MRI and surgery.

Methods

A total of 67 patients (62 males) with suspected anal fistula were analyzed retrospectively. Preoperative three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging were performed in all patients. The number of internal openings and the type of fistula were recorded. The accuracy of three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound was determined by comparing these parameters with surgical outcomes.

Results

At surgery, 5 (6%) were extrasphincteric, 10 (12%) were suprasphincteric, 11 (14%) were intersphincteric, and 55 (68%) were transsphincteric. There was no significant difference in the accuracy of pelvic 3D US and MRI, based on internal openings (97.92%, 94.79%), anal fistulas (97.01%, 94.03%), and those under Parks classification (97.53%, 93.83%).

Conclusion

Three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound is a reproducible and accurate method for determining the type of fistula and detecting internal openings and anal fistulas.
Prevalence and determinants of caesarean section deliveries in the Kintampo Districts of Ghana
Authors: Gyaase Daniel , Enuameh Yeetey Akpe , Adjei Benjamin Noble , Gyaase Stephaney , Nakua Emmanuel Kweku , Kabanunye Moses Musah , Alhassan Mohammed Muhib , Yakubu Mohammed Sheriff , Tetteh Richard Joshua , Newton Sam , Asante Kwaku Poku
Published: April 2023

Background

Globally, the increasing rate of caesarean section (CS) delivery has become a major public health concern due to its cost, maternal, neonatal, and perinatal risks. In Ghana, the Family Health Division of the Ghana Health Service in 2016 opted to initiate a program to prevent the abuse of CS and identify the factors contributing to its increase in the country. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors influencing CS deliveries in the Kintampo Districts of Ghana.

Methods

The current study used secondary data from the Every Newborn–International Network for the Demographic Evaluation of Populations and their Health (EN-INDEPTH) project in Kintampo, Ghana. The outcome variable for this study is CS delivery. The predictor variables were socio-demographic and obstetric factors.

Results

The prevalence of CS delivery in the study area was 14.6%. Women with secondary education were 2.6 times more likely to give birth by CS than those with primary education. Unmarried women were about 2.5 times more likely to deliver by CS compared to those who were married. There was an increasing order of CS delivery among women in the wealthy quintiles from poorer to richest. The likelihood of women with gestational ages from 37 to 40 weeks to give birth by CS was about 58% less compared to those with less than 37 gestational weeks. Women who had 4–7 and 8 or more antenatal care (ANC) visits were 1.95 and 3.5 times more likely to deliver by CS compared to those who had less than 4 ANC visits. The odds of women who have had pregnancy loss before to deliver by CS was 68% higher compared to women who have not lost pregnancy before.

Conclusions

Caesarean section delivery prevalence in the study population was within the Ghana Health Service and World Health Organization ranges. In addition to known socio-demographic and obstetric factors, this study observed that a history of pregnancy loss increased the chances of a woman undergoing a CS. Policies should aim at addressing identified modifiable factors to stem the rise in CS deliveries.
Epidemiology of major paediatric trauma in a European Country – trends of a decade
Authors: Castelão Mafalda , Lopes Graça , Vieira Marisa
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This study investigates causes, characteristics and temporal trends of paediatric major trauma over a 10-year period and assesses potential preventive areas.

Methods

Single-centre retrospective study of paediatric trauma patients admitted to a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in a tertiary university hospital in Europe with a level 1 paediatric trauma centre, from 2009 to 2019. Paediatric major trauma patients were defined as patients aged < 18 years with Injury Severity Score > 12, admitted for intensive care for more than 24 h following trauma. Demographic, social and clinical information, including place and mechanism of trauma, injury pattern, pre-hospital and in-hospital procedures, and length of stay in PICU was extracted from PICU medical records.

Results

Total 358 patients included (age 11 ± 4,9 years; 67% male); 75% were involved in road traffic accidents: 30% motor vehicle collision, 25% pedestrian, 10% motorcycle and bicycle each. Falls from height injured 19% of children, 4% during sports activities. Main injuries were to head/neck (73%) and extremities (42%). The incidence of major trauma was highest in teenagers and did not show a decreasing trend during the study years. All fatalities (1,7%; n = 6) were related to head/neck injuries. Motor vehicle collisions resulted in higher need for blood transfusion (9 vs. 2 mL/kg, p = 0,006) and the highest ICU-mortality (83%; n = 5). Children in motorcycle accidents had longer ICU length-of-stay (6,4 vs. 4,2 days, p = 0,036). Pedestrians had 25% higher risk of head/neck injuries (RR 1,25; 1,07 − 1,46; p = 0,004), and higher incidence of severe brain injury (46% vs. 34%, p = 0,042). Most children in motor-vehicle/bicycle accidents were not using restraints/protective devices (45%) or were using them inappropriately (13%).

Conclusions

Over the last decade, the absolute numbers of paediatric major trauma did not decrease. Road traffic accidents remain the leading cause of injury and death. Teenagers are at highest risk for severe trauma. Appropriate use of child restraints and protective equipment remain key for prevention.
Improved access yet inequitable experience: gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men’s views of more inclusive criteria for source plasma donation
Authors: Vesnaver Elisabeth , Butler-Foster Terrie , Goldman Mindy , Gibson Emily , Palumbo Amelia , Lapierre Don , Hill Nolan E. , MacDonagh Richard , Rubini Kyle A. , Bridel William , Miguel Glenndl , Rosser Andrew , MacPherson Paul , Randall Taylor , Osbourne-Sorrell William , O’Brien Sheila F. , Otis Joanne , Greaves Mark , Al-Bakri Taim Bilal , Germain Marc , Orvis Shane , Clapperton Andrew T. , Reid Marco , Labrecque Maximilian , Devine Dana , Presseau Justin
Published: April 2023

Background

Canada has incrementally reduced restrictions to blood and plasma donation that impact men who have sex with men, gay, bisexual, and queer men, and some Two Spirit, transgender and non-binary individuals (MSM/2SGBTQ+). Prior to the launch of a pilot program in 2021 enabling some MSM/2SGBTQ + to donate source plasma, we explored the acceptability of the program among individuals who could become eligible to donate in the program.

Methods

We invited men identifying as MSM/2SGBTQ + to participate in two consecutive semi-structured interviews to explore their views on blood and plasma donation policy, plasma donation, and the proposed Canadian plasma donation program. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically and acceptability-related themes were mapped onto the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability.

Results

Twenty-seven men identifying as having sex with men participated in 53 interviews. Eighteen themes were mapped onto the seven construct domains of the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. Underlying all aspects of acceptability was a tension between four primary values influencing participants’ views: altruism, equity, supply sufficiency, and evidence-based policy. The program was viewed as welcome progress on a discriminatory policy, with many excited to participate, yet tension with inequitable aspects of the program undermined support for the program and interest to contribute to it. The high demands of the program are unique for MSM/2SGBTQ + and are only tolerable as part of a program that is an incremental and instrumental step to more equitable donation policies.

Conclusion

Findings highlight past experiences of exclusion in Canada as a unique and critical part of the context of the donation experience among MSM/2SGBTQ+. Despite the program’s goals of greater inclusivity of MSM/2SGBTQ + individuals, the anticipated experience of the program included continued stigmatization and inequities. Future research should seek to understand the experienced views of MSM/2SGBTQ + donors to ensure that as policies change, policies are implemented equitably.
The effect of resource loss on depression and peritraumatic distress during the early period of the COVID-19: considering the pandemic-situational and social context
Authors: Lee Yubin , Hyun Yoorim , You Myoungsoon , Lee Heeyoung , Han Jin-Ok , Seo Suin
Published: April 2023

Background

The public experienced loss of resources, including their health and property during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Conservation of Resources (COR) theory is a useful tool to explain the effect of resource loss on mental health. This paper examines the effect of resource loss on depression and peritraumatic distress considering the situational and social context of the COVID-19 pandemic applying COR theory.

Methods

An online survey was conducted for Gyeonggi residents when the second wave of COVID-19 in South Korea declined (5 October to 13 October 2020); 2,548 subjects were included in the hierarchical linear regression analysis.

Results

COVID-19 infection-related experiences, resource losses (e.g., financial burden, deterioration of health, and decline of self-esteem), and fear of stigma were related to elevated levels of peritraumatic distress and depression. Risk perception was associated with peritraumatic distress. Reduced income or job loss were related to depression. Social support was a protective factor for mental health.

Conclusions

This study suggests that we need to focus on COVID-19 infection-related experiences and loss of daily resources in order to understand mental health deterioration during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, it is important to monitor the mental health of medically and socially vulnerable groups and those who have lost resources due to the pandemic and to provide them with social support services.
Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and e-health literacy(e-HL) to investigate the tobacco control intentions and behaviors of non-smoking college students in China: a cross-sectional investigation
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Zhou Mengxia , Yu Wenli , Zou Ziyue , Ge Pu , Ma Zheng Feei , Tong Yuting , Li Wei , Li Qiyu , Li Yunshan , Zhu Siya , Sun Xinying , Wu Yibo
Published: April 2023

Background

Non-smoking college students are starting to smoke in increasing numbers, which shows that their tobacco control situation seems not optimistic. The UTAUT and e-HL are commonly used models and theories to predict health behaviors, while there are few studies on tobacco control. This paper aims to study the influencing factors of tobacco control intention and behavior of non-smoking college students in China by combining the UTAUT and e-HL.

Methods

Based on the stratified sampling method, 625 college students from 12 universities were selected. Data were collected using a self-made questionnaire designed based on the UTAUT and e-health literacy scales. Data were analyzed by SPSS 22 and AMOS 26, including descriptive statistics, one-way variance analysis and structural equation model analysis.

Results

The results of one-way variance analysis showed that there were significant differences in the score of non-smoking college students’ tobacco control intention or behavior by hometowns, monthly living expenses, and parents' smoking history. Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence had direct positive effects on behavioral intention. Facilitating condition, behavioral intention had direct positive impacts on use behavior and e-HL had an indirect positive impact on use behavior.

Conclusions

The combination of the UTAUT and e-HL can be used as an appropriate framework to predict the influencing factors of non-smoking college students' intention and behavior of tobacco control. Improving performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and e-HL among non-smoking college students, creating positive social environments, and providing facilitating condition are key aspects of increasing their tobacco control intention and behavior. It is also beneficial to promote the implementation of smoke-free campus and smoke-free family projects.
Implementing a regional School Health Research Network in England to improve adolescent health and well-being, a qualitative process evaluation
Authors: Widnall Emily , Hatch Lorna , Albers Patricia N , Hopkins Georgina , Kidger Judi , de Vocht Frank , Kaner Eileen , van Sluijs Esther MF , Fairbrother Hannah , Jago Russell , Campbell Rona
Published: April 2023

Background

There is an increased need for prevention and early intervention surrounding young people’s health and well-being. Schools offer a pivotal setting for this with evidence suggesting that focusing on health within schools improves educational attainment. One promising approach is the creation of School Health Research Networks which exist in Wales and Scotland, but are yet to be developed and evaluated in England.

Methods

This qualitative process evaluation aimed to identify the main barriers and facilitators to implementing a pilot School Health Research Network in the South West of England (SW-SHRN). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with school staff, local authority members, and other key stakeholders. Interview data were analysed using the 7-stage framework analysis approach.

Results

Four main themes were identified from the data: (1) ‘Key barriers to SW-SHRN’ (competing priorities of academic attainment and well-being, schools feeling overwhelmed with surveys and lack of school time and resource); (2) ‘Key facilitators to SW-SHRN: providing evidence-based support to schools’ (improved knowledge to facilitate change, feedback reports and benchmarking and data to inform interventions); (3) ‘Effective dissemination of findings’ (interpretation and implementation, embedding findings with existing evidence and policy, preferences for an online platform as well personalised communication and the importance of involving young people and families); and (4) ‘Longer-term facilitators: ensuring sustainability’ (keeping schools engaged, the use of repeat surveys to evaluate impact, informing school inspection frameworks and expanding reach of the network).

Conclusion

This study identifies several barriers to be addressed and facilitators to be enhanced in order to achieve successful implementation of School Health Research Networks in England which include providing a unique offering to schools that is not too burdensome, supporting schools to take meaningful action with their data and to work closely with existing organisations, services and providers to become meaningfully embedded in the system.
Analysis of influencing factors and a predictive model of small airway dysfunction in adults
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Zhang Haihua , Su Xuan , Wang Ying , Gao Guizhou , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Tao
Published: April 2023

Background

Small airway dysfunction (SAD) is a widespread but less typical clinical manifestation of respiratory dysfunction. In lung diseases, SAD can have a higher-than-expected impact on lung function. The aim of this study was to explore risk factors for SAD and to establish a predictive model.

Methods

We included 1233 patients in the pulmonary function room of TangDu Hospital from June 2021 to December 2021. We divided the subjects into a small airway disorder group and a non-small airway disorder group, and all participants completed a questionnaire. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses to identify the risk factors for SAD. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to construct the nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was assessed and validated by the Area under roc curve (AUC), calibration curves, and Decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

One. The risk factors for small airway disorder were advanced age (OR = 7.772,95% CI 2.284–26.443), female sex (OR = 1.545,95% CI 1.103–2.164), family history of respiratory disease (OR = 1.508,95% CI 1.069–2.126), history of occupational dust exposure (OR = 1.723,95% CI 1.177–2.521), history of smoking (OR = 1.732,95% CI 1.231–2.436), history of pet exposure (OR = 1.499,95% CI 1.065–2.110), exposure to O3 (OR = 1.008,95% CI 1.003–1.013), chronic bronchitis (OR = 1.947,95% CI 1.376–2.753), emphysema (OR = 2.190,95% CI 1.355–3.539) and asthma (OR = 7.287,95% CI 3.546–14.973). 2. The AUCs of the nomogram were 0.691 in the training set and 0.716 in the validation set. Both nomograms demonstrated favourable clinical consistency. 3.There was a dose‒response relationship between cigarette smoking and SAD; however, quitting smoking did not reduce the risk of SAD.

Conclusion

Small airway disorders are associated with age, sex, family history of respiratory disease, occupational dust exposure, smoking history, history of pet exposure, exposure to O3, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. The nomogram based on the above results can effectively used in the preliminary risk prediction.