bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of technology for the analysis of Small-Sided Games in football. From complexity to chaos in training design: Reference to number of players, playing space, orientation, time distribution, directionality with goalkeepers, and feedback
Authors: Asín-Izquierdo Iván , Gutiérrez-García Luis , Galiano Carlos
Published: May 2023

Small-sided games (SSGs) are frequently used in football training programs and their design has been analyzed in scientific literature. The aim of this study was to analyze differences in the mechanical and physiological demands of football SSGs with various configurations over an effective time of 6 min through the application of GPS/GNSS technology, heart rate monitoring, and player self-perceived effort. Thirty football players (21.59 ± 4.35 years, 72.74 ± 9.01 kg, and 178.16 ± 0.93 cm) completed 138 recordings during MD-3 sessions (matchday-3, 76 h pre-match) using Catapult OptimEye S5 devices, synchronized with the Polar system. The training structure was similar for all measurements. Analyses and comparisons were made using a total of ten training tasks and six study variables (dimensions, orientation, number of players, directionality, time distribution, and coaches’ feedback). SSGs played as 3 versus 3 showed higher mechanical responses with greater pitch sizes ( p  < 0.001) and without the presence of goalkeepers ( p < 0.032). SSGs with a 6 versus 6 format showed higher velocities were attained when the pitch was long ( p = 0.021) and when the duration of the set was shorter (i.e., 2 min; p < 0.015). SSGs arranged as 3 versus 3, showed superior results for internal and external variables in comparison with 6 versus 6 ( p < 0.025). The application of new technology is necessary to understand internal and external workload responses to the multiple possible variations of the elements of SSGs. The understanding of these resources will contribute to the development of training tasks based on the complexity of football itself, considering the wide possibilities offered to coaches.
Asia-Pacific Perspectives on the Role of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Optimizing Diabetes Management
Authors: Twigg Stephen , Lim Soo , Yoo Seung-Hyun , Chen Liming , Bao Yuqian , Kong Alice , Yeoh Ester , Chan Siew Pheng , Robles Jeremyjones , Mohan Viswanathan , Cohen Neale , McGill Margaret , Ji Linong
Published: May 2023

Diabetes is prevalent, and it imposes a substantial public health burden globally and in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The cornerstone for optimizing diabetes management and treatment outcomes is glucose monitoring, the techniques of which have evolved from self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Contextual differences with Western populations and limited regionally generated clinical evidence warrant regional standards of diabetes care, including glucose monitoring in APAC. Hence, the APAC Diabetes Care Advisory Board convened to gather insights into clinician-reported CGM utilization for optimized glucose monitoring and diabetes management in the region. We discuss the findings from a pre-meeting survey and an expert panel meeting regarding glucose monitoring patterns and influencing factors, patient profiles for CGM initiation and continuation, CGM benefits, and CGM optimization challenges and potential solutions in APAC. While CGM is becoming the new standard of care and a useful adjunct to HbA1c and SMBG globally, glucose monitoring type, timing, and frequency should be individualized according to local and patient-specific contexts. The results of this APAC survey guide methods for the formulation of future APAC-specific consensus guidelines for the application of CGM in people living with diabetes.
Patterns of acceptance and use of digital health services among the persistent frequent attenders of outpatient care: A qualitatively driven multimethod analysis
Authors: Virtanen Lotta , Kaihlanen Anu-Marja , Kainiemi Emma , Saukkonen Petra , Heponiemi Tarja
Published: May 2023

Objective

Utilising digital health services in the treatment of patients who frequently attend outpatient care could be beneficial for patients’ health and the sustainability of health systems but carries the risk of digital exclusion. This study aimed to explore the patterns of acceptance and use of digital health services among frequent attenders (FAs), which may help in the assessment of patients’ digital suitability.

Methods

Persistent FAs ( N = 30) were recruited by random sampling from one Finnish municipality. The semistructured interviews were conducted in February–May 2021. We analysed the data with qualitative content analysis using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. Additionally, we quantified the data for two-step cluster analyses to create separate cluster models that grouped FAs based on acceptance and use of (a) digital services for self-management of health and (b) telemedicine services.

Results

Based on digital self-management, FAs were defined as Self-Managers, Supported Self-Managers, and Non-Self-Managers. Based on telemedicine use, they were grouped into Telemedicine Users, Doubtful Telemedicine Users, and Telemedicine Refusers. The clusters described different opportunities, awareness, and interest in using digital health services. Referral from professionals seemed to promote digital service use. For some, digital services were not accessible.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasise the importance of assessing the suitability of FAs to digital health services, as their readiness to use may vary. Professionals should recommend digital services that support individual health to suitable patients. More accessible digital services could promote digital suitability despite functional limitations.
Associations between health literacy, digital skill, and eHealth literacy among older Chinese adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Shaojie , Cui Guanghui , Yin Yongtian , Xu Huilan
Published: May 2023

Objective

Digital divide in health-related technology use is a prominent issue for older adults. Improving eHealth literacy may be an important solution to this problem. This study aimed to explore the associations between health literacy, digital skills, and eHealth literacy among older Chinese adults.

Methods

A total of 2,144 older adults (mean age, 72.01  ±  6.96 years) from Jinan City, China participated in this study. The eHealth Literacy Scale was used to measure eHealth literacy in older adults. A linear regression model was used to analyze the associations among health literacy, digital skills, and eHealth literacy in older Chinese adults.

Results

The mean eHealth literacy score of the older adults was 17.56  ±  9.61. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and experience of Internet usage, the results of the linear regression showed that health literacy ( B  =  0.258, 95% confidence interval (CI)  =  0.215–0.302, P< 0.001) and digital skills ( B  =  0.654, 95% CI  =  0.587–0.720, P < 0.001) were positively associated with eHealth literacy. Sensitivity analyses revealed that this association remained robust.

Conclusions

The level of eHealth literacy in older Chinese adults is low. Health literacy and digital skills are associated with eHealth literacy in older adults. In the future, eHealth literacy intervention research should be considered from the perspective of health literacy and digital skills.
Using less keystrokes to achieve high top-1 accuracy in Chinese clinical text entry
Authors: Li Tao , Yu Lei , Zhou Liang , Wang Panzhang
Published: May 2023

Background

As a routine task, physicians spend substantial time and keystrokes on text entry. Documentation burden is increasingly associated with physician burnout. Predicting at top-1 with less keystrokes (TLKs) is a hot topic for smart text entry. In Western countries, contextual autocomplete is deployed to alleviate the burden. Chinese text entry is intercepted by input method engines (IMEs), which cut off suggestions from electronic health records (EHRs).

Objective

To explore a user-friendly approach to make text entry easier and faster for Chinese physicians.

Methods

Physicians were shadowed to uncover the real-word input behaviors. System logs were collected for behavior validation and then used for context-based learning. An in-line web-based popup layer was proposed to hold the best suggestion from EHRs. Keystrokes per character and TLK rate were evaluated quantitatively. Questionnaires were used for qualitative assessment. Nine hundred fifty-two physicians were enrolled in a field testing.

Results

14 facilitators and 17 barriers related to IMEs were identified after shadowing. With system logs, physicians tended to split long words into short units, which were 1–4 in length. 81.7% of these units were disyllables. Compared to the control group, the intervention group improved TLK rate by 40.3% ( p < .0001), and reduced keystrokes per character by 48.3% ( p < .0001). Survey results also promised positive feedback from physicians.

Conclusions

Keystroke burden and frequent choice reaction time challenge Chinese physicians for text entry. The proposed system demonstrates an approach to alleviate the burden. Contextual information is easily retrieved and it further helps improve the top-1 accuracy, with a smaller number of keystrokes. While positive feedback is received, it promises a benefit to protect patient privacy.
Reframing Tech-Based Strategic HRD Practices in Organizational Path: Is the Journey Engaging?
Authors: Chakraborty Tanusree , Dhir Swati
Published: May 2023

The present study endeavors to understand tech-based Strategic Human Resource Development Practices (tech-based SHRDP), specifically aiming to explore whether tech-based SHRDP has any relation with employee engagement and study whether the attitude of employees toward tech-based SHRDP moderates the relation between HRD practices and employee engagement. Data was collected from 375 IT professionals. Hierarchical-regression analysis and correlation were used to address the research questions. The study found tech-based SHRDP were associated with employee engagement and the attitude of employees toward tech-based SHRDP moderates the relation between HRD practices and employee engagement. The paper is an original empirical work that focuses on tech-based SHRDP and comes with findings that would assist the organizations and human resource professionals to plan their HRD practices aiming toward sustainability of the workforce.
Excess Opioid Medication and Variation in Prescribing Patterns Following Common Breast Plastic Surgeries
Authors: Samargandi Osama A. , Boudreau Colton , MacIssac Kaleigh , McGuire Connor , ElAbd Rawan , Helmi Adel , Tang David
Published: May 2023

Purpose: Excess opioid prescribing has societal impacts including addiction, dependence, and misuse. This study aims to investigate prescribing patterns and self-reported patient experiences with opioid use, pain control, and disposal of unused medication following common breast surgeries. Methods: A total of 46 patients undergoing 5 breast procedures were identified during a predefined 14-week period. All procedures were carried out at a single tertiary care hospital by 9 plastic surgeons. Provincial narcotic monitoring program provided linked prescription information for identified patients. All patients were invited to participate in a telephone interview regarding postoperative opioid use. Results: A total of 41.6% of patients received and filled an opioid prescription following a breast procedure. Hydromorphone was the most commonly prescribed narcotic. The average number of opioid tablets dispensed following breast procedures was 31.9. Four percent of breast patients required an opioid refill. A total of 75% of breast patients used at least 1 over-the-counter analgesic, most commonly acetaminophen alone. Average self-reported pain score and total pain period were not significantly different between those using opioids and those not. A total of 6.7% and 23.1% of patients report returning excess narcotics to a pharmacy, while the majority report still having or self-disposing of excess tablets. Conclusions: Opioids are prescribed in excess for the breast procedures we analyzed. The majority of unused opioids were noted to still be at home or disposed of inappropriately. This suggests a role for reviewing opioid-prescribing patterns for common plastic surgery procedures to reduce the burden of the ongoing opioid epidemic.
Capillary leak syndrome with immune checkpoint inhibitors and anti-cancer targeted therapy agents: Not that common
Authors: Pariswala Tanazul , Wang Qiyu , Sakhiya Vipulbhai , Wanchoo Rimda , Jhaveri Kenar D
Published: May 2023

Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) is a rare condition typically presenting with profound hypotension, edema, and hemoconcentration. While there are some known, yet rare causes of CLS described, there is very limited data available with use of monoclonal antibodies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. This study aimed to look for the reported side effect of CLS with the use of targeted monoclonal antibodies and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database was searched from first quarter 2010 to fourth quarter 2021 for targeted monoclonal antibodies and ICI. Other literature search including PubMed and case reports/series were also performed. Only 22 cases of CLS with novel anti-cancer treatments were reported in FAERS. Anti-CD20 was the most common class with nine cases of CLS with Rituximab. Six cases with ICI and four cases of CLS with anti-VEGF therapy were also documented. PubMed search showed anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (anti-PD1) as the most common class associated with CLS with five reported cases. CLS is a known complication of anticancer agents such as gemcitabine, clofarabine, cyclophosphamide, platinum-based therapy, colony stimulating factors, and CAR-T therapy, however CLS is not that common with newer monoclonal antibodies and ICIs. This study demonstrates that clinicians need to be aware of this rare fatal side effect of these drugs.
Divergent citizenships: Social urbanism and hip hop collectives in Comuna 13 (Medellin - Colombia)
Authors: Ramirez Suarez Yenny Carolina
Published: May 2023

The bombing attacks against the civilian population promoted by the Colombian State in alliance with paramilitary groups (2001–2002) marked the history of the Comuna 13, a popular territory located on the slopes of Medellin. It has faced processes of structural, political and criminal violence for nearly 50 years. Its stigmatization as a space in conflict has justified military incursions as anti-subversive strategies. More recently, urban interventions based on the “social urbanism” model promoted by the municipal government have sought to pacify the population by means of sophisticated infrastructures. This paper aims to analyze the forces and folds of power present in citizen practices. Based on a scalar methodology that articulates ethnographic work with microhistory, the research reveals the configuration of divergent citizenships in hip hop collectives. The paper shows how they have been shaped by factors such as disputes over public spaces as settings of political life, interpellations to images of legitimate citizens, claims of rights anchored to territorial history, experiences of citizenship linked to body and emotions, citizen experiences connected to collective work, and the defense of universal claims based on the experience of young hoppers in different cities around the world. This research opens questions for legal geography to think about the relationship between citizenship and territoriality.
Genetic and protein interaction studies between the ciliary dyslexia candidate genes DYX1C1 and DCDC2
Authors: Bieder Andrea , Chandrasekar Gayathri , Wason Arpit , Erkelenz Steffen , Gopalakrishnan Jay , Kere Juha , Tapia-Páez Isabel
Published: May 2023

Background

DYX1C1 (DNAAF4) and DCDC2 are two of the most replicated dyslexia candidate genes in genetic studies. They both have demonstrated roles in neuronal migration, in cilia growth and function and they both are cytoskeletal interactors. In addition, they both have been characterized as ciliopathy genes. However, their exact molecular functions are still incompletely described. Based on these known roles, we asked whether DYX1C1 and DCDC2 interact on the genetic and the protein level.

Results

Here, we report the physical protein-protein interaction of DYX1C1 and DCDC2 as well as their respective interactions with the centrosomal protein CPAP (CENPJ) on exogenous and endogenous levels in different cell models including brain organoids. In addition, we show a synergistic genetic interaction between dyx1c1 and dcdc2b in zebrafish exacerbating the ciliary phenotype. Finally, we show a mutual effect on transcriptional regulation among DYX1C1 and DCDC2 in a cellular model.

Conclusions

In summary, we describe the physical and functional interaction between the two genes DYX1C1 and DCDC2. These results contribute to the growing understanding of the molecular roles of DYX1C1 and DCDC2 and set the stage for future functional studies.
Identification of Vitis vinifera MYB transcription factors and their response against grapevine berry inner necrosis virus
Authors: Wang Xianyou , Zhao Shanshan , Zhou Ruijin , Liu Yunli , Guo Longlong , Hu Huiling
Published: May 2023

Background

The myeloblastosis (MYB) superfamily is the largest transcription factor family in plants that play diverse roles during stress responses. However, the biotic stress-responsive MYB transcription factors of the grapevine have not been systematically studied. In China, grapevine berries are often infected with the grapevine berry inner necrosis virus (GINV), which eventually reduces the nutritional quality and commodity value.

Results

The present study identified and characterized 265 VvMYB or VvMYB-related genes of the “Crimson seedless” grapevine. Based on DNA-binding domain analysis, these VvMYB proteins were classified into four subfamilies, including MYB-related, 2R-MYB, 3R-MYB, and 4R-MYB. Phylogenetic analysis divided the MYB transcription factors into 26 subgroups. Overexpression of VvMYB58 suppressed GINV abundance in the grapevine. Further qPCR indicated that among 41 randomly selected VvMYB genes, 12 were induced during GINV infection, while 28 were downregulated. These findings suggest that VvMYB genes actively regulate defense response in the grapevine.

Conclusion

A deeper understanding of the MYB TFs engaged in GINV defense response will help devise better management strategies. The present study also provides a foundation for further research on the functions of the MYB transcription factors.
Ethylene signals modulate the survival of Arabidopsis leaf explants
Authors: Shin Seung Yong , Lee Chae-Min , Kim Hyun-Soon , Kim Changsoo , Jeon Jae-Heung , Lee Hyo-Jun
Published: May 2023

Background

Leaf explants are major materials in plant tissue cultures. Incubation of detached leaves on phytohormone-containing media, which is an important process for producing calli and regenerating plants, change their cell fate. Although hormone signaling pathways related to cell fate transition have been widely studied, other molecular and physiological events occurring in leaf explants during this process remain largely unexplored.

Results

Here, we identified that ethylene signals modulate expression of pathogen resistance genes and anthocyanin accumulation in leaf explants, affecting their survival during culture. Anthocyanins accumulated in leaf explants, but were not observed near the wound site. Ethylene signaling mutant analysis revealed that ethylene signals are active and block anthocyanin accumulation in the wound site. Moreover, expression of defense-related genes increased, particularly near the wound site, implying that ethylene induces defense responses possibly by blocking pathogenesis via wounding. We also found that anthocyanin accumulation in non-wounded regions is required for drought resistance in leaf explants.

Conclusions

Our study revealed the key roles of ethylene in the regulation of defense gene expression and anthocyanin biosynthesis in leaf explants. Our results suggest a survival strategy of detached leaves, which can be applied to improve the longevity of explants during tissue culture.
The effect of polypharmacy on healthcare services utilization in older adults with comorbidities: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Doumat George , Daher Darine , Itani Mira , Abdouni Lina , El Asmar Khalil , Assaf Georges
Published: May 2023

Background

Older adults are more prone to increasing comorbidities and polypharmacy. Polypharmacy is associated with inappropriate prescribing and an increased risk of adverse effects. This study examined the effect of polypharmacy in older adults on healthcare services utilization (HSU). It also explored the impact of different drug classes of polypharmacy including psychotropic, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic polypharmacy on HSU.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study. Community-dwelling older adults aged ≥ 65 years were selected from the primary care patient cohort database of the ambulatory clinics of the Department of Family Medicine at the American University of Beirut Medical Center. Concomitant use of 5 or more prescription medications was considered polypharmacy. Demographics, Charlson Comorbidity index (CCI), and HSU outcomes, including the rate of all-cause emergency department (ED) visits, rate of all-cause hospitalization, rate of ED visits for pneumonia, rate of hospitalization for pneumonia, and mortality were collected. Binomial logistic regression models were used to predict the rates of HSU outcomes.

Results

A total of 496 patients were analyzed. Comorbidities were present in all patients, with 22.8% (113) of patients having mild to moderate comorbidity and 77.2% (383) of patients having severe comorbidity. Patients with polypharmacy were more likely to have severe comorbidity compared to patients with no polypharmacy (72.3% vs. 27.7%, p = 0.001). Patients with polypharmacy were more likely to visit the ED for all causes as compared to patients without polypharmacy (40.6% vs. 31.4%, p = 0.05), and had a significantly higher rate of all-cause hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio aOR 1.66, 95 CI = 1.08–2.56, p = 0.022). Patients with psychotropic polypharmacy were more likely to be hospitalized due to pneumonia (crude odds ratio cOR 2.37, 95 CI = 1.03–5.46, p = 0.043), and to visit ED for Pneumonia (cOR 2.31, 95 CI = 1.00–5.31, p = 0.049). The association lost significance after adjustment.

Conclusions

The increasing prevalence of polypharmacy amongst the geriatric population with comorbidity is associated with an increase in HSU outcomes. As such, frequent medication revisions in a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach are needed.
ARL4C is associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kanai Ryo , Uehara Takeshi , Yoshizawa Takahiro , Kamakura Masato , Nakajima Tomoyuki , Kinugawa Yasuhiro , Iwaya Mai , Asaka Shiho , Kitazawa Masato , Nagaya Tadanobu , Ota Hiroyoshi
Published: May 2023

Background

ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 4 C (ARL4C) is a member of the ARF small GTP-binding protein subfamily. The ARL4C gene is highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC). ARL4C protein promotes cell motility, invasion, and proliferation.

Methods

We investigated the characteristics of ARL4C by comparing its expression at the invasion front and relationships with clinicopathological data using RNAscope, a highly sensitive RNA in situ method.

Results

In all cases, ARL4C expression was observed in cancer stromal cells and cancer cells. ARL4C expression in cancer cells was localized at the invasion front. In cancer stromal cells, ARL4C expression was significantly stronger in cases with high-grade tumor budding than in cases with low-grade tumor budding (P = 0.0002). Additionally, ARL4C expression was significantly increased in patients with high histological grade compared with those with low histological grade (P = 0.0227). Furthermore, ARL4C expression was significantly stronger in lesions with the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype compared with the non-EMT phenotype (P = 0.0289). In CRC cells, ARL4C expression was significantly stronger in cells that had the EMT phenotype compared with those with a non-EMT phenotype (P = 0.0366). ARL4C expression was significantly higher in cancer stromal cells than in CRC cells (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our analysis reinforces the possibility that ARL4C expression worsens the prognosis of patients with CRC. Further elucidation of the function of ARL4C is desired.
Management of complicated choledochal cyst in children: ultrasound-guided percutaneous external drainage and subsequent definitive operation
Authors: Yan Jiayu , Lv Chuankai , Zhang Dan , Zheng Mingkang , Peng Chunhui , Pang Wenbo , Chen Wei , Wang Siwei , Wang Xiaoman , Chen Yajun
Published: May 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes of the combination of ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous external drainage and subsequent definitive operation to manage complicated choledochal cyst in children.

Methods

This retrospective study included 6 children with choledochal cyst who underwent initial US-guided percutaneous external drainage and subsequent cyst excision with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy between January 2021 and September 2022. Patient characteristics, laboratory findings, imaging data, treatment details, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Mean age at presentation was 2.7 ± 2.2 (0.5–6.2) years, and 2 patients (2/6) were boys. Four patients (4/6) had a giant choledochal cyst with the widest diameter of ≥ 10 cm and underwent US-guided percutaneous biliary drainage on admission or after conservative treatments. The other 2 patients (2/6) underwent US-guided percutaneous transhepatic cholangio-drainage and percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage due to coagulopathy, respectively. Five patients (5/6) recovered well after US-guided percutaneous external drainage and underwent the definitive operation, whereas 1 patient (1/6) had liver fibrosis confirmed by Fibroscan and ultimately underwent liver transplantation 2 months after external drainage. The mean time from US-guided percutaneous external drainage to the definitive operation was 12 ± 9 (3–21) days. The average length of hospital stay was 24 ± 9 (16–31) days. No related complications of US-guided percutaneous external drainage occurred during hospitalization. At 10.2 ± 6.8 (1.0–18.0) months follow-up, all patients had a normal liver function and US examination.

Conclusions

Our detailed analysis of this small cohort suggests that US-guided percutaneous external drainage is technically feasible for choledochal cyst with giant cysts or coagulopathy in children, which may provide suitable conditions for subsequent definitive operation with a good prognosis.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered.
Does social media usage ameliorate loneliness in rural youth? A cross sectional pilot study
Authors: Gregory Lachlan , Dutton Tegan , Osuagwu Uchechukwu Levi , Vines Robyn
Published: May 2023

Aim

To investigate the relationship between social media use and loneliness and psychological wellbeing of youth in rural New South Wales.

Design

This was a web-based cross-sectional survey.

Methods

The survey consisted of 33 items including demography (12 items), participants’ social media use (9 items), mood and anxiety (6 items), perceived loneliness (6 items), the impact of COVID-19 on social media usage or perceived loneliness (2 items). The participants’ mood and anxiety were evaluated using the psychological distress tool (K6), while loneliness was measured using the De Jong Gierveld 6-item scale. Total loneliness and psychological distress scores were compared between demographic variables.

Results

A total of 47 participants, aged 16–24 years took part in the study. The majority were women (68%) and many had K6 score that was indicative of psychological distress (68%). About half of the participants indicated that Facebook (FB) was their most used social media platform and two in five participants were on social media within 10 min of waking up each day, about 30% spent more than 20 h per week on social media, and more than two-third sent private messages, images, or videos, multiple times a day. The mean loneliness score was 2.89 (range, 0 to 6), with 0 being ‘not lonely’ and 6 being ‘intense social loneliness’. One-way ANOVA and χ2 test results showed that those who used FB most frequently had significantly higher mean scores for loneliness compared to those that used other social media platforms (p = 0.015). Linear regression analysis revealed that those who commonly used FB were more likely to report higher loneliness scores (coefficient = –1.45, 95%CI –2.63, –0.28, p = 0.017), while gender (p = 0.039), age (p = 0.048), household composition (p = 0.023), and education level (p = 0.014) were associated with severe psychological distress.

Conclusions

The study found that social media usage, particularly FB, as measured by time used and active or passive engagement with the medium, was significantly linked to loneliness, with some impact on psychological distress. Social media use within ten minutes of waking increased the likelihood of psychological distress. However, neither loneliness nor psychological distress were associated with rurality among the rural youth in this study.
A qualitative study of perception related to risky driving behavior in Debre Markos City, North West Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Mazengia Elyas Melaku , Kassie Ayenew , Zewdie Amare , Demissie Getu Debalkie
Published: May 2023

Background

About 1.35 million deaths and around 50 million injuries are attributed to road traffic crashes every year in the world. In Ethiopia, road traffic crashes contributed to a fatality rate of 37 per 100,000 populations per year, and 83% of traffic crashes were attributed to risky driving behavior. This study aimed to explore perceptions related to risky driving behavior among public transport vehicle drivers in Debre Markos City, North West Ethiopia, in 2021.

Methods

A generic qualitative study was conducted from August 05– September 15, 2021. A total of 17 participants (10 drivers, 4 drivers’ training school instructors, and 3 traffic police officers) were selected by a purposive heterogeneous sampling technique. An open-ended interview guide was used during the interview, and all interviews were audio recorded. Data collected in the local language was transcribed verbatim and translated into English. The ATLAS-TI version 7.5 software was used to code the data, and finally, thematic analysis was done.

Result

Four themes were identified. The first theme was “transport safety rule and enforcement problem,” which includes gaps in the transport safety rule itself and gaps in the implementation of the rule. The second theme was “Drivers’ training curriculum and application gaps,” which focuses on gaps in the training curriculum and its application during recruitment, training, and examination of trainees. The third theme was “technical and financial problems”. This theme includes problems related to the vehicles’ technical issues and the appropriateness of transport tariffs. The final theme was “passenger and vehicle owners’ related problems”. This theme is about the influence of passengers’ and vehicle owners’ practices on drivers’ risky driving behavior.

Conclusion

Revising transport safety rules and strictly following the implementation of the drivers’ training curriculum and transport safety rules should be given due attention. In addition, behavior change communications tailored to drivers and vehicle owners could be beneficial in reducing risky driving behaviors.
High engagement in nonpharmaceutical interventions and their associations with reduced COVID-19 among US college students
Authors: Couture Marie-Claude , Walicek Lindsey , L’Engle Kelly L. , Regan Annette K.
Published: May 2023

Background

Nonpharmaceutical interventions, including face mask-wearing, physical distancing, and avoidance of crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, have been widely recommended to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2. To date, there is little data available on engagement in nonpharmaceutical interventions and COVID-19 in college students. Using a large sample of college students, we estimate the prevalence of engagement in mask-wearing, physical distancing, and avoidance of crowds/poorly ventilated spaces and their associations with COVID-19.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted (February–March 2021) using a college-wide online survey among students (n = 2,132) in California. Multiple modified poisson regression models assessed associations between mask-wearing indoors, physical distancing (both indoors or public settings/outdoors), avoidance of crowds/poorly ventilated spaces and COVID-19, controlling for potential confounders.

Results

Fourteen percent (14.4%) reported a previous COVID-19 illness. Most students reported wearing masks consistently indoors (58%), and 78% avoided crowds/poorly ventilated spaces. About half (50%) reported consistent physical distancing in public settings/outdoor and 45% indoors. Wearing a mask indoors was associated with 26% lower risk of COVID-19 disease (RR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.60,0.92). Physical distancing indoors and in public settings/outdoors was associated with a 30% (RR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.56,0.88) and 28% (RR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.58,0.90) decrease risk of COVID-19, respectively. No association was observed with avoidance of crowds/poorly ventilated spaces. The risk of COVID-19 declined as the number of preventive behaviors a student engaged in increased. Compared to those who did not engage in any preventive behaviors (consistently), students who consistently engaged in one behavior had a 25% lower risk (RR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.53,1.06), those who engaged in two behaviors had 26% lower risk (RR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.53,1.03), those who engaged in three behaviors had 51% lower risk (RR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.33,0.74), and those who consistently engaged in all four behaviors had 45% lower risk of COVID-19 (RR = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.40,0.78).

Conclusions

Wearing face masks and physical distancing were both associated with a lower risk of COVID-19. Students who engaged in more nonpharmaceutical interventions were less likely to report COVID-19. Our findings support guidelines promoting mask-wearing and physical distancing to limit the spread of COVID-19 on campuses and the surrounding communities.
Association between circadian syndrome and the prevalence of kidney stones in overweight adults: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007–2018
Authors: Xiao Yunfei , Yin Shan , Bai Yunjin , Yang Zhenzhen , Wang Jiahao , Cui Jianwei , Wang Jia
Published: May 2023

Objective

To explore the association between circadian syndrome (CircS) and the prevalence of kidney stones in overweight people.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted based on the NHANES 2007–2018. Overweight people aged ≥ 20 years were the target population. Three multivariable logistic regression models were built to examine the association between CircS and kidney stones. Subgroup analysis based on age, gender, and race were also employed. Interaction and stratification analysis was also conducted to identify whether some factors modify the association.

Result

A total of 4,603 overweight participants were included in the study. The multivariable logistic regression suggested that CircS was positively associated with the prevalence of kidney stones (OR = 1.422, 95% CI 1.057 to 1.912). The subgroup analysis showed that the association was more obvious in females (OR = 1.604, 95% CI 1.023 to 2.516) or in the population aged 35 to 49 years old (OR = 2.739, 95% CI 1.428 to 5.254). Additionally, the same trend was present when people were Mexican American (OR = 3.834, 95% CI 1.790 to 8.215) or other races (OR = 4.925, 95% CI 1.776 to 13.656). The interaction and stratification analysis showed that the results above were robust.

Conclusion

CircS was positively associated with the prevalence of kidney stones in overweight people, especially people as females, aged 35 to 49, and Mexican Americans.
The conservative management for improving Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scoring in greater trochanteric pain syndrome: a Bayesian analysis
Authors: He Yuping , Lin Yao , He Xiaolan , Li Chunrong , Lu Qingxiu , He Junbing
Published: May 2023

Background

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) possesses a harmful influence on quality of life. Numerous conservative management modalities with varying success have been proposed for patients with GTPS. However, it is not clear which treatment is more effective for reducing pain. The purpose of this Bayesian analysis was to assess the current evidence for the effectiveness of conservative treatments on improving Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scoring of GTPS and to determine the most effective treatment protocol.

Methods

A comprehensive study search was performed from inception until July 18, 2022, via the electronic databases PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for potential research. The risk of bias assessment for the included studies was independently performed based on the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool. Bayesian analysis was conducted by using ADDIS software (v1.16.5). The DerSimonian-Laird random effects model was used to perform the traditional pairwise meta-analysis.

Results

Eight full-text articles with a total of 596 patients with GTPS were included in the analysis. In comparing ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma application (PRP-U) to ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection (CSI-U), patients who received PRP therapy experienced reduced pain as the VAS decreased significantly (MD, -5.21; 95% CI, -6.24 to -3.64). VAS score in group of extracorporeal shockwave treatment (ESWT) was significant improved than that in exercise (EX) group (MD, -3.17; 95% CI, -4.13 to -2.15). There were no statistically significantly different VAS scores between the CSI-U group and the CSI under landmark (CSI-B) group. The treatment efficacy rankings of the different treatments on improving VAS scores showed that the most likely efficacious treatment was PRP-U (99%) followed by ESWT (81%), CIS-U (58%), usual care (48%), CIS-B (54%), and EX (84%).

Conclusion

Bayesian analysis revealed that PRP injection and ESWT are relatively safe and effective in the treatment of GTPS. More multicenter high-quality randomized clinical trials with large sample sizes are still needed in the future to provide further evidence.
Natural exosome-like nanoparticles derived from ancient medicinal insect Periplaneta americana L. as a novel diabetic wound healing accelerator
Authors: Liao Qian , Su Lijun , Pang Lan , Li Jiaxin , Li Hui , Li Jingjing , Liu Yuling , Zhang Jinming
Published: May 2023

Along with the recognized therapeutic outcomes of regenerative medicine, extracellular vesicles and their exosome subsets have become an alternative option for wound healing. Periplaneta americana L. (PA), an ancient and traditional medicinal insect, has been around for 300 million years, and displays magic formidable vitality and environmental adaptive ability. The linkage between intrinsic amputation regeneration feature and the acknowledged wound healing medicinal benefit of PA has never been revealed. Herein, inspired by the ability of exosomes to participate in the interkingdom communication, we explored whether this effect was ascribed to PA derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PA-ELNs). PA-ELNs were extracted by differential velocity centrifugation approach and characterized by DLS, NTA and TEM. Their cargoes were analyzed by LC-MS/MS proteomics and small RNA-seq analysis. The wound healing activity was verified in vivo and in vitro. PA-ELNs with a concentration of 2.33x109±6.35x107 particles/mL exhibited a lipid bilayer-bound membrane structure with an average size of 104.7 nm. Furthermore, the miRNA cargoes in PA-ELNs participate in some wound healing related signal pathways such as TGF-beta, mTOR, and autophagy. As expected, the in vitro tests indicated that PA-ELNs were apt to be internalized in HUVECs, L929 and RAW 264.7 cells and contributed to cell proliferation and migration. Most importantly, we demonstrated that the topical administration of PA-ELNs could remarkably accelerate wound healing in a diabetic mouse model, and was involved in anti-inflammatory, re-epithelialization and autophagy regulation. This study provides clear evidence for the first time that PA-ELNs, as diabetic wound healing accelerators, are the “bioactive code” of this ancient medicinal insect.

Graphical abstract
Evaluation of humoral and cellular immune responses induced by a cocktail of recombinant African swine fever virus antigens fused with OprI in domestic pigs
Authors: Zhang Guanglei , Liu Wei , Yang Sicheng , Song Shuai , Ma Yunyun , Zhou Guangqing , Liang Xiaxia , Miao Chun , Li Junhui , Liu Yanhong , Shao Junjun , Chang Huiyun
Published: May 2023

Background

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly fatal disease in domestic pigs caused by ASF virus (ASFV), for which there is currently no commercial vaccine available. The genome of ASFV encodes more than 150 proteins, some of which have been included in subunit vaccines but only induce limited protection against ASFV challenge.

Methods

To enhance immune responses induced by ASFV proteins, we expressed and purified three fusion proteins with each consisting of bacterial lipoprotein OprI, 2 different ASFV proteins/epitopes and a universal CD4+ T cell epitope, namely OprI-p30-modified p54-TT, OprI-p72 epitopes-truncated pE248R-TT, and OprI-truncated CD2v-truncated pEP153R-TT. The immunostimulatory activity of these recombinant proteins was first assessed on dendritic cells. Then, humoral and cellular immunity induced by these three OprI-fused proteins cocktail formulated with ISA206 adjuvant (O-Ags-T formulation) were assessed in pigs.

Results

The OprI-fused proteins activated dendritic cells with elevated secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the O-Ags-T formulation elicited a high level of antigen-specific IgG responses and interferon-γ-secreting CD4+ and CD8+ T cells after stimulation in vitro. Importantly, the sera and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from pigs vaccinated with the O-Ags-T formulation respectively reduced ASFV infection in vitro by 82.8% and 92.6%.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the OprI-fused proteins cocktail formulated with ISA206 adjuvant induces robust ASFV-specific humoral and cellular immune responses in pigs. Our study provides valuable information for the further development of subunit vaccines against ASF.
Non-invasive flow mapping of parasagittal meningeal lymphatics using 2D interslice flow saturation MRI
Authors: Kim Jun-Hee , Yoo Roh-Eul , Choi Seung Hong , Park Sung-Hong
Published: May 2023

The clearance pathways of brain waste products in humans are still under debate in part due to the lack of noninvasive imaging techniques for meningeal lymphatic vessels (mLVs). In this study, we propose a new noninvasive mLVs imaging technique based on an inter-slice blood perfusion MRI called alternate ascending/descending directional navigation (ALADDIN). ALADDIN with inversion recovery (IR) at single inversion time of 2300 ms (single-TI IR-ALADDIN) clearly demonstrated parasagittal mLVs around the human superior sagittal sinus (SSS) with better detectability and specificity than the previously suggested noninvasive imaging techniques. While in many studies it has been difficult to detect mLVs and confirm their signal source noninvasively, the detection of mLVs in this study was confirmed by their posterior to anterior flow direction and their velocities and morphological features, which were consistent with those from the literature. In addition, IR-ALADDIN was compared with contrast-enhanced black blood imaging to confirm the detection of mLVs and its similarity. For the quantification of flow velocity of mLVs, IR-ALADDIN was performed at three inversion times of 2000, 2300, and 2600 ms (three-TI IR-ALADDIN) for both a flow phantom and humans. For this preliminary result, the flow velocity of the dorsal mLVs in humans ranged between 2.2 and 2.7 mm/s. Overall, (i) the single-TI IR-ALADDIN can be used as a novel non-invasive method to visualize mLVs in the whole brain with scan time of ~ 17 min and (ii) the multi-TI IR-ALADDIN can be used as a way to quantify the flow velocity of mLVs with a scan time of ~ 10 min (or shorter) in a limited coverage. Accordingly, the suggested approach can be applied to noninvasively studying meningeal lymphatic flows in general and also understanding the clearance pathways of waste production through mLVs in humans, which warrants further investigation.
Over-expression of hsa_circ_0088214 suppresses tumor progression by inhibiting Akt signaling pathway in osteosarcoma
Authors: Hao Zhiwei , Yang Yiqun , Xu Daxia , Feng Hongyong , Li Kunpeng , Ji Changbin , Li Man , Zhang Honglei
Published: May 2023

Background

To explore the effect of has_circ_0088214 in osteosarcoma cells and corresponding mechanisms.

Methods

Osteosarcoma cell line MG63 and U2OS were selected in this study. Wound-healing and matrigel transwell assays were performed to detect migration and invasion capacities. CCK-8 assay was used to measure cell growth and cisplatin resistance. Cell apoptosis was observed by Hoechst 33342 staining after H2O2 induce. Western Blot was used to detect protein expression level. The rescue experiments were also performed using an Akt activator SC79.

Results

Hsa_circ_0088214 was down-regulated in osteosarcoma cells compared to normal osteoblast cells. Over-expression of has_circ_0088214 significantly reduced osteosarcoma cells invasion, migration and resistance to cisplatin, but the apoptotic ratio was increased. The phosphorylation level of Akt could be regulated by hsa_circ_0088214, and rescue experiments proved Akt signaling pathway took part in above biological processes.

Conclusion

Up-regulation of hsa_circ_0088214 suppresses invasion, migration, cisplatin resistance but promoting apoptosis induced by H2O2 by inhibiting Akt signaling pathway in osteosarcoma.