bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytological characterization and molecular marker development for wheat-Thinopyrum ponticum translocations carrying leaf rust and stem rust resistance genes Lr24 and Sr24
Authors: Li Jianbo , Guan Haixia , Wang Yuqi , Dong Chongmei , Trethowan Richard , McIntosh Robert , Zhang Peng
Published: March 2024

Previous studies showed that Australian wheat cultivars Janz and Sunco carry leaf rust and stem rust resistance genes Lr24 and Sr24 derived from Thinopyrum ponticum chromosome arm 3AgL. However, the size of the alien segments carrying Lr24 and Sr24 in the lines were not established. In this study, we used non-denaturing fluorescence in situ hybridization (ND-FISH), genomic in situ hybridization (GISH), and PCR-based landmark unique gene (PLUG) markers to visualize the alien segments in Janz and Sunco, and further compared them with the segments in cultivars Agent and Amigo. The fraction length (FL) of the alien translocation in Agent was 0.70-1.00, whereas those in Janz, Sunco, and Amigo were smaller, at FL 0.85-1.00. It was deduced that the alien gene RAg encoding for red grain color and rust resistance genes Lr24 and Sr24 on chromosome arm 3AgL were in bins of FL 0.70–0.85 and 0.85-1.00, respectively. We retrieved and extracted nucleotide-binding site-leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) receptor genes corresponding to the region of Lr24 and Sr24 on chromosomes 3E, and 3J, 3Js and 3St from the reference genome sequences of Th. elongatum and Th. intermedium, respectively. A set of molecular markers developed for Lr24 and Sr24 from those extracted NBS-LRR genes will provide valuable information for fine mapping and cloning of these genes.
Short Term Outcomes and Predictors of Mortality of Preterms Who Had Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Initiated at Delivery at in Urban Sub Saharan African Setting: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Patrick Baingana , Erem Geoffrey , Nakibuuka Victoria , Mworozi Edison
Published: March 2024

Background Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a low-cost treatment modality for respiratory distress syndrome that has been shown to improve survival of preterm infants. However, its application at delivery is not routinely practiced in Uganda and Africa despite evidence from high income countries. Short term outcomes and predictors of mortality of preterm infants initiated on CPAP at Delivery at the St Francis hospital, Nsambya was reviewed in this study.Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted at St Francis Hospital, Nsambya Neonatal Unit. Maternal and Neonatal records of Preterm infants that had CPAP initiated at delivery from January 2018 to December 2021 were reviewed. The proportion of preterm infants that survived to discharge were determined, those that required mechanical ventilation and surfactant replacement therapy. The predictors of mortality were determined using Cox proportionate hazard model. Kaplan Meier survival curve was used to determine survival probability.Results A total of 198 patient’s records were reviewed, the mean age of mother was 29 years and139 (70.2%) were delivered by cesarean section. 109 (55.1%) of the preterm infants were female, 146 (73.7%) survived to discharge.31 (15.7%) required mechanical ventilation and 38 (19.2%) received surfactant replacement therapy. The mean survival time was 42 days and predictors of mortality were gestation age less than 31 weeks, apnea of prematurity, pulmonary hemorrhage and APGAR score of less than 6 at 5 minutes.Conclusions The survival of preterm infants with respiratory distress was high when CPAP was initiated at delivery and small proportion required surfactant and mechanical ventilation. However, preterm infants delivered less than 31 weeks of gestation, having apnea of prematurity, pulmonary hemorrhage and an APGAR score less than 6 at 5 minutes had an increased the risk of mortality. Thus mortality of preterm infants that receive CPAP early can be reduced by intervening on the above predictors
Acetylation-dependent control of SIAH2 links JAK2V617F to mitochondrial respiration and ROS-associated apoptosis
Authors: Krämer Oliver , Mustafa Al-Hassan , Petrosino Giuseppe , Fischer Marten , Ricciardi Luisa , Gül Désirée , Christmann Markus , Morrison Helen , Wirth Matthias
Published: March 2024

Epigenetic modulators of the histone deacetylase (HDAC) family control key biological processes. We used leukemic cells with the constitutively active kinase oncoprotein JAK2V617F as models to define the incompletely understood control of cytoplasmic signaling and cell organelles by nuclear HDACs. We reveal that HDAC1 and HDAC2 control JAK2V617F through the ubiquitin-ligase seven-in-absentia-homologue-2 (SIAH2). Inhibition of HDAC1/HDAC2 stabilizes SIAH2 and accelerates proteasomal degradation of JAK2V617F which has a surface-exposed SIAH degron motif in its catalytic domain. This acetylation-dependent loss of JAK2V617F and its downstream signaling to the inducible transcription factor STAT1 disrupts expression of the mitochondrial chaperone SMIM20. Consequently, inactivation of HDAC1 and HDAC2 disengages the electron transport chain of oxidative phosphorylation and causes ROS-associated, pro-apoptotic DNA damage. This study links the nuclear located HDAC1/HDAC2 to JAK-STAT-dependent mitochondrial functions, redox homeostasis, and genomic stability.
Automated contouring of gross tumor volume lymph nodes in lung cancer by deep learning
Authors: Huang Yuling , Yuan Xingxing , Xu Longfei , Jian Junming , Gong Changfei , Zhang Yun , Zheng Wenheng
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The precise contouring of gross tumor volume lymph nodes (GTVnd) is an essential step in clinical target volume delineation. However, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no autosegmentation studies on the GTVnd in lung cancer. This study aims to propose and evaluate a deep learning model for segmenting GTVnd in lung cancer.
Method
Ninety computed tomography (CT) scans of patients with lymph node metastasis in lung cancer were collected, of which 75 patients were assembled into a training dataset and 15 were used in a testing dataset. A new segmentation model was constructed to enable the automatic and accurate delineation of the GTVnd in lung cancer. This model integrates a contextual cue enhancement module and an edge-guided feature enhancement decoder. The contextual cues enhancement module was used to enforce the consistency of the contextual cues encoded in the deepest feature, and the edge-guided feature enhancement decoder was used to obtain edge-aware and edge-preserving segmentation predictions. The model was quantitatively evaluated using the three-dimensional Dice Similarity Coefficient (3D DSC) and the 95th Hausdorff Distance (95HD).
Results
The mean 3D DSC value of the ECENet was approximately 0.72 ± 0.09, and that of the 95HD was approximately 12.65 ± 5.82 mm. The performance of ECENet was significantly improved, compared with UNet (0.46 ± 0.19 and 12.76 ± 13.12 mm, respectively). There were statistically significant differences in terms of the 3D DSC and 95HD values between from ECENet and UNet.
Conclusion
The proposed model could achieve the automatic delineation of the GTVnd in the thoracic region of lung cancer and showed certain advantages, making it a potential choice for the automatic delineation of the GTVnd in lung cancer, particularly for young radiation oncologists.
Associated factors of dietary diversity among schoolchildren in Plateau Central region of Burkina Faso
Authors: OUEDRAOGO Daniel Somwaoga , COMPAORE Ella W. R. , OUEDRAOGO Ousmane , DICKO Mamoudou H.
Published: March 2024

Context: School age is a dynamic period of growth and development for good health and a productive adult life. Adequate dietary intake provides the nutrients essential for growth, health and cognition. The practice of adequate nutrition is still not a given in school-age children. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with dietary diversity in public elementary school children.
Method: Multi-stage sampling was used to select schoolchildren for the study. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on food consumption at home and at school using a 24-hour dietary recall method. Binary logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with students' dietary diversity scores at statistical significance at p < 0.05 after performing the Ki-square test of independence to identify candidate variables at p < 0.25.
Results: The study involved 560 pupils aged 5 to 14, including 296 (52.9%) girls and 264 (47.9%) boys. The dietary diversity score (DDS) was low (DDS≤ 3), medium (DDS=4) and high (DDS ≥ 5) in 13.4%; 48.9% and 37.7% of pupils respectively. Students in Ganzourgou province were twice as likely to have a low SDA (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.00-4.04) compared to those in Oubritenga province. Household drinking water source, pupil status and father's occupation were significantly associated with pupils' dietary diversity intake.
Conclusion: Primary school children in the Plateau Central region do not have good dietary practices. Promoting dietary diversification in households and balanced meals in school canteens would be necessary to improve the dietary diversity score of school-age children.
Pre-, Peri-, and Neonatal Risk Factors Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a Case-control Study in Armenia
Authors: Mkhitaryan Meri , Avetisyan Tamara , Mkhoyan Anna , Avetisyan Larisa , Yenkoyan Konstantin
Published: March 2024

Objective We aimed to investigate the role of pre-, peri- and neonatal risk factors in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among Armenian children with the goal of detecting and addressing modifiable risk factors to reduce ASD incidence.Design We conducted a retrospective case-control study using a random proportional sample of Armenian children with ASD to assess associations between various factors and ASD. The study was approved by the local ethical committee, and parental written consent was obtained.Results A total of 168 children with ASD and 329 controls were included in the analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender, maternal weight gain, use of MgB6, self-reported stress during the pregnancy, pregnancy with complications, as well as use of labor-inducing drugs were associated with a significant increase in the odds of ASD, whereas Duphaston use during pregnancy, the longer interpregnancy interval and birth height were associated with decreased odds of ASD.Conclusion These findings are pertinent as many identified factors may be preventable or modifiable, underscoring the importance of timely and appropriate public health strategies aimed at disease prevention in pregnant women to reduce ASD incidence.
Automated Classification of Atmospheric Circulation Types for Compound Flood Risk Assessment: CMIP6 Model Analysis Utilising a Deep Learning Ensemble
Authors: Heinrich Philipp , Hagemann Stefan , Weisse Ralf
Published: March 2024

The simultaneous occurrence of high river discharges and storm surges represent a substantial hazard for many low-lying coastal areas. Potential future changes in the frequency or intensity of such compound flood events is therefore of utmost importance. To assess such changes large and consistent ensembles with storm surge and hydrological models are needed that are hardly available. Often the occurrence of compound flood events is linked to the presence of certain atmospheric circulation types. Future changes in the frequency of such patterns can be directly inferred from available climate simulations. A frequently used classification of atmospheric circulation types are the so-called "Großwetterlagen" by Hess and Brezowsky. Here possible future changes in the occurrence of these "Großwetterlagen" were analysed using data from 31 realisations of CMIP6 climate simulations for the emission scenarios SSP1-2.6, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5. As the classification is subjective, a deep learning ensemble for the automatic classification was developed and applied. In winter, a higher frequency of the atmospheric pattern Cyclonic Westerly towards 2100 could be inferred as a robust result among all models and scenarios. As this circulation type is potentially associated with compound flooding in some parts of the European coasts, this points towards potentially increasing risks from compound flooding in the future.
Associations between Life’s Essential 8 and cancer among US adults
Authors: He Hairong , Zhang Xiaoyu , Jiang AiMin , Li Yimen , Cui Shuwen , Fu Xiao , Yao Yu , Liang Xuan , Tian Tao
Published: March 2024

Background
Cancer is closely associated with both cardiovascular disease and lifestyle. We aimed to determine the relationship of the Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) score, which is an updated measure of cardiovascular health (CVH), with the presence of cancer among US adults.
Methods
This population-based cross-sectional study analyzed data on adults aged ≥ 20 years from the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) program obtained during 2005–2018. LE8 scores range from 0 to 100, and they were obtained from measurements based on definitions reported by the American Heart Association. The scores were subdivided into health behaviors and health factors scores, and further categorized into low (0–49), moderate (50–79), and high (80–100) scores, which corresponded to poor, moderate, and optimal CVH, respectively. Multivariable logistic and restricted cubic-spline models were used to assess the association between the LE8 score and cancer. The correlation between the LE8 score and cancer among different populations was analyzed in different subgroups.
Results
The 24,969 participants (weighted mean age = 47.63 years, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 47–48 years) included 13,025 females (weighted percentage [WP] = 52%, 95% CI = 52–53%) and 2,403 patients diagnosed with cancer (WP = 10%). The weighted mean LE8 score of the study population was 67.84 (95% CI = 67–68). After adjusting for potential confounders, the LE8 score was not associated with the cancer risk, and there was no nonlinear dose–response relationship. In the subgroup analyses, the negative correlation between LE8 score and cancer was significantly stronger among those aged 20–49 years. The blood glucose and nicotine exposure score components of LE8 had significant negative correlations with the cancer risk.
Conclusions
CVH was strongly negatively correlated with the risk of early-onset cancer. Encouraging optimal CVH and a healthy lifestyle may be effective in reducing the risk of early-onset cancer.
Formation and saturation of β-phase of PVDF in DMF solvent: a comprehensive study
Authors: Dowarah Satyasadhan , Kalita Parswajit , Singh Divya , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: March 2024

In the present work, we report the effect of solvent content on the β-phase fraction in PVDF (poly(vinylidene fluoride)) films synthesized by the facile wet chemical route using DMF (N,N-Dimethylformamide) as the solvent. The amount of PVDF powder was kept fixed while the amount of DMF was varied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the transformation of the α-phase in the PVDF powder to β-phase in the synthesized PVDF films which was further confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) measurements. Deconvolution of the XRD profiles of the films showed the increase of the β-phase content (viz. β/α ratio) with initial increase of the DMF volume. However, a surprising and previously unreported result emerged, i.e. the saturation of the β-phase beyond a certain volume of the solvent. The plausible mechanism for the formation and saturation of the β-phase in the PVDF films is discussed.
Deformation analysis by a rigorous similarity transformation
Authors: Mahobub Vahid
Published: March 2024

In this contribution, deformation analysis is rigorously performed by a non-linear 3-D similarity transformation. In contrast to traditional methods based on linear least-squares (LS), here we solve a non-linear problem without any linearization. To achieve this goal, an extended weighted total least-squares (WTLS) approach is implemented to deformation analysis problem. Although some researchers have been trying to solve deformation analysis using TLS approaches, these attempts require modification since they used to apply unstructured TLS techniques such as Generalized TLS (GTLS) to similarity transformation which requires structured TLS (STLS) techniques while the WTLS approach preserves the structure of the functional model when based on the perfect description of the variance-covariance matrix. Also Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) confirms that the WTLS method provides the most accurate results among the linear LS, GTLS and WTLS approaches in a landslide area which is located in Turkey as a case study for deformation analysis.
Electronic Medical Record System user satisfaction and its implication on individual work performance: A case of a University Teaching Hospital in Rwanda
Authors: UWAMUNGU Evode , Marara Alpha Arsene , Munyaneza Emmanuel , Pinney Joel
Published: March 2024

The Information system user satisfaction has been extensively documented as a key component and a surrogate of success, and a determinant of individual and organizational performance. However, most of researches focused on measuring user satisfaction and its impact through mathematical models which might not capture exhaustively the issues affecting user satisfaction and performance. This study was conducted at the “Centre Hospitalier Universtaire de Kigali” one of the two tertiary public and university teaching hospitals in Rwanda. This hospital has been implementing OpenClinic as an Electronic Medical Record system since 2007 and there has been few studies focused on its evaluation. In addition, there is no study yet conducted focused on understanding the implication of user satisfaction on his individual work performance. This study was cross-sectional mixed research using explanatory embedded design. The data was collected on a convenient sample of OpenClinic users through the questionnaires including closed and open ended questions in order to capture both quantitative and qualitative data. The OpenClinic user satisfaction was found to be high (91%) as well as the proportion of users who perceived it as having positive impact on their work performance (94%). The relationship between user satisfaction and perceived impact was statistically significant, and satisfied users were 20 times more likely to perceive it having positive impact than no satisfied users. Important concerns were expressed by users and the main ones are the poor functionality of the system due to unstable internet, the limited capacity of use and the scarcity of computers. Therefore, the Electronic Medical Record system implementation at the hospital has been successful and its user satisfaction led to perceived positive impact, but it needs further improvements for optimal success. The inclusion of qualitative component in future researches is recommended for a better understanding of IS success.
Interleukin-35 impairs human NK cell effector functions and induces their ILC1-like conversion with tissue residency features
Authors: Bendriss-Vermare Nathalie , Picant Valentin , Revol-Bauz Lara , Tonon Laurie , POUJOL Dominique , Picard Emilie , Rodriguez Céline , Degletagne Cyril , Ferrari Anthony , CAUX Christophe
Published: March 2024

Natural Killer (NK) cells lose their effector functions towards dangerous cells in chronic inflammatory diseases through still elusive mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate that Interleukin 35 (IL-35), an immunosuppressive member of the IL-12 family, inhibits human NK cell proliferation, pro-inflammatory, and cytotoxic functions, while promoting their secretion of TGF-β and proangiogenic factors. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to IL-35 converts NK cells into ILC1-like cells with tissue residency features (CD9+CD103+CD49a+) and low effector functions, that was dependent on autocrine TGF-β. Single cell RNAseq analysis also revealed an ILC1-like heterogeneity associated to the initial NK subpopulation, conventional or adaptive, undergoing the conversion. Overall, our findings identify a new role of IL-35 as a key driver of NK cell plasticity leading to the acquisition of tissue residency features and weakened effector functions that might play a role in physiopathological contexts and represent an attractive target for future immunotherapies to improve NK cell clinical activity.
Prevalence and Inequality of Childhood Underweight in Bangladesh over Time
Authors: Hassan Sakib Al , Jafrin Tanzina , Islam Tanjirul , Anni Tayeeba Tabussum , Habiba Umme , Jui Mahmuda Akter , Islam Md Amirul , Rahman Md. Ashfikur
Published: March 2024

Background
In Bangladesh, the percentage of children found moderately and severely underweighted are respectively 16.4% and 3.6% all over the country in 2018. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of and factors affecting childhood underweight < 5 years old and to identify socioeconomic inequalities contributing to childhood underweight in Bangladesh.
Methods
Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey Data (2007, 2011, 2014 & 2017–2018) of 30,940 pairs were used for analysis. Chi-square tests were used to estimate the relationship between the independent variables chosen and underweight, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to investigate potential risk factors and decomposition analysis was conducted to assess the inequality.
Results
Binary logistic regression demonstrated that the children’s age, mother’s BMI, mother’s education level, father’s educational status, child delivery procedure, birth order of the child, recent diarrhea affectedness before the survey, sanitation, and wealth index were discovered to be important variables affecting childhood underweight of children under 5 years old in Bangladesh.
Conclusion
Associated factors with underweight in this study should be taken into consideration when designing policies and programs making it more effective to eradicate the underweight problem among children in Bangladesh.
The challenges and solutions of providing health services to people with disabilities in mass gatherings
Authors: Dehghani Arezoo , Bahmanshpour Fateme , Anami Sajjad , Masoumi Gholamreza , Eskandari Zahra
Published: March 2024

Background: Despite being more susceptible and exposed to more injuries in such situations, people with disabilities have not received as much research attention as they should. Their health could be jeopardized if the restrictions on these people's ability to receive healthcare during mass gatherings are not addressed. The purpose of this study was to determine the difficulties this vulnerable population faces in accessing healthcare during mass gatherings.
Methods: A qualitative investigation was carried out from May 6, 2023, to August 22, 2023. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with a group of 26 participants, comprising individuals with disabilities, managers and staff involved in policymaking, and specialists in disaster management. The gathered data was analyzed using both traditional content analysis and the Graneheim and Lundman method.
Results: According to the findings, theextracted challenges were placed in seven main categories: planning, support, coordination, providing care, support services, providing infrastructure, and health service management.
Conclusion: It is imperative to examine the various factors influencing the equitable access of individuals with disabilities to health services, as policymakers prioritize the establishment of health justice and convenient access to healthcare. The findings of this study may offer fresh approaches to management and policymaking to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equitable access to healthcare during mass gatherings, particularly the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
Facile Universal Strategy of Presenting Multifunctional Short Peptides for Customizing Desired Surfaces
Authors: Lu Ruofei , Zhao Bingyang , Huo Kaiyuan , Liu Hao , Wang Yang , Zan Xingjie , Hu Siwang
Published: March 2024

Interfacial properties determine biomaterial performances, such as cell adhesion, signal exchange, and biomineralization, which affect the tissue repair cycle and efficiency of clinical applications. Peptides, as short protein sequences that have defined functionalities, are highly stable and easy to synthesize and have enormous potential to reshape interfacial properties. However, the lack of a universal strategy for presenting peptides on various substrates substantially hinders the application of peptides. In this study, we report a facile and universal strategy for customizing desired interfacial functionalities by a well-known layer-by-layer (LbL) technique through the assembly polyphenols with positively charged short peptide-coupling functional sequences. Polyphenol–peptide interactions were elucidated in detail by assembling polyphenols and peptides possessing different characteristics (charged, uncharged, hydrophobic, and sequence length) in combination with molecular dynamics simulations, and isothermal titration calorimetry further revealed the favorable enthalpy change due to electrostatic interactions is the main driving force for assembling peptides with polyphenols. LbL coatings assembled from polyphenols and positively charged peptides exhibited good substrate generalization, stability, cell proliferation, and antioxidant properties, when prepared as hollow capsules by sacrificing the template, exhibited significant pH and ultrasound stimulation responses, which could be suitable candidates for drug carriers. Most importantly, the LbL assembly strategy of positively charged peptides could be utilized to present various functional molecules (such as arginyl–glycyl–aspartic acid (RGD), a cell adhesion motif; CM15, an antibacterial peptide; and PEG, an antifouling surface) on various substrates for customizing desired surfaces. This study not only provides new insights into the understanding and regulation of interactions between proteins/peptides and polyphenols but also paves the way toward the interfacial functionalization of biomaterials.
Clinical outcomes following total hip arthroplasty for bony ankylosed hips: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Kii Sakumo , Takamatsu Ryo , Sonohata Motoki , Ueno Masaya , Nonaka Toshihiro , Kitajima Masaru , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: March 2024

Background
Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most effective treatments for hip arthritis. However, postoperative outcomes of THA in patients with bony ankylosed hips remain inconclusive. We aimed to examine the postoperative results of THAs for bony ankylosed hips using propensity score matching.
Methods
A propensity score was calculated using logistic regression analysis for a bony-ankylosed group (40 hips, 38 patients) and a non-ankylosed (control) group (829 hips, 729 patients). Patients were followed up for more than 10 years after primary THA. The propensity score used five covariates: age, sex, height, weight, and body mass index. Propensity matching was performed, with each bony ankylosed hip being matched to a non-ankylosed control hip. The clinical outcomes of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) hip scores and complications were investigated.
Results
The propensity-matched population consisted of 40 bony ankylosed hips (38 patients) and 40 hips (40 patients) of matched controls. In both groups, the postoperative JOA hip scores at the last follow-up significantly improved compared to the preoperative scores. The JOA hip scores at the last follow-up for all components in the bony-ankylosed group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The number of hips with postoperative complications was significantly higher in the bony-ankylosed group than that in the control group.
Conclusions
THA for patients with bony ankylosed hips achieved positive results, including improved JOA hip scores; however, these scores were inferior to those observed in patients with non-ankylosed hips. This should be preoperatively communicated to patients with bony ankylosed hips who undergo THA.
Extracted step parameters during the Timed Up and Go test discriminate between groups with different levels of cognitive ability - A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Löfgren Niklas , Berglund Lars , Giedraitis Vilmantas , Halvorsen Kjartan , Rosendahl Erik , McKee Kevin J. , Åberg Anna Cristina
Published: March 2024

Background
Identifying cognitive impairment at an early stage is important to enable preventive treatment and lifestyle changes. As gait deviations precede cognitive impairment, the aim of this study was to investigate if step parameters during different Timed Up and Go (TUG) conditions could discriminate between people with different cognitive ability.
Methods
Participants (N = 304) were divided into the following groups: (1) controls, n = 50, mean age:73, 44% women; (2) Subjective cognitive Impairment (SCI), n = 71, mean age:67, 45% women; (3) Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), n = 126, mean age: 73, 42% women; and (4) dementia disorders, n = 57, mean age: 78, 51% women. Participants conducted TUG and two motor-cognitive TUG-conditions: TUG while naming animals (TUGdt-NA) and reciting months in reverse order (TUGdt-MB). Tests were video recorded for data extraction of valid spatiotemporal parameters: step length, step width, step duration, single step duration and double step duration. Step length was investigated with the step length/body height ratio (step length divided by body height). Logistic regression models (adjusted for age, sex and education) investigated associations between step parameters and dichotomous variables of groups adjacent in cognitive ability: dementia disorders vs. MCI, MCI vs. SCI, and SCI vs. controls. Results were presented as standardized odds ratios (sORs), with 95% confidence intervals (CI95) and p-values (significance level: p < 0.05). The areas under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were presented for the step parameters/conditions with the highest sORs and, where relevant, optimal cutoff values were calculated.
Results
Step length showed greatest overall ability to significantly discriminate between adjacent groups (sOR≤. 67, CI95: .45-.99, p=≤. 047) during all group comparisons/conditions except three. The highest sOR for step-length was obtained when discriminating between SCI vs controls during TUGdt-MB (sOR = .51, CI95:.29- .87, p = .014), whereby the area under the curve was calculated (c-statistics = .700). The optimal cut-off indicated a step length of less than 32.9% (CI95 = 22.1–43.0) of body height to identify SCI compared with controls.
Conclusions
The results indicate that step length may be important to assess during TUG, for discrimination between groups with different cognitive ability; and that the presented cut-off has potential to aid early detection of cognitive impairment.
Trial registration number:
NCT05893524 (retrospectively registered 08/06/23).
The effect of promoting factors on learning by four teaching methods
Authors: Tolonen Marko Tapani , Arvonen Miika , Renko Marjo , Paakkonen Heikki , Piippo-Savolainen Eija
Published: March 2024

Background
In the digital era, developing effective teaching methods is crucial due to the challenges of sustaining student concentration amidst distractions. This study assessed the effects of learning promoting factors both across group boundaries and within RCT groups from our previously study on effectiveness of online versus live teaching(1).
Methods
The participants’ experience on Concentration, Anticipation, Repeatability, Liking, and effect of Baseline Trigger were evaluated online immediately after the lesson on diagnosing pediatric respiratory issues given either in Live, Live-stream, Vodcast or Podcast setting. The answers were given on 1–10 scale with scores above a median of 8 indicating high experience levels in each factor. Learning was evaluated via a Webropol e-Test immediately and five weeks after the teaching. The 15-minute test, comprising 10 multiple-choice questions and real-life video scenarios, measured both theoretical and diagnostic skills. The test score scale was from − 26 to 28 points.
Results
High concentration was experienced in 70/ 72 students in Live, in 41/ 75 students in Live-stream, in 53/ 72 students in Vodcast and in 36/ 79 students in Podcast teaching groups (P < 0.01). High concentration promoted teaching best, resulting in 1.93 score improvement in short-term test and 1.65 score improvement in long-term test. Among those who could concentrate well, the average test scores were in short-term 23.0 (3.8) in Live, 21.9 (5.1) in Live-streamed, 23.4 (5.2) in Vodcast and 22.1 (4.2) Podcast groups. The results of students with low concentration were 19.0 (2.8), 17.6 (8.2), 20.0 (5.3) and 18.3 (6.1) in the Live, Live-streamed, Vodcast and Podcast groups, respectively.
Conclusion
Concentration is the key to learning. Live teaching method results in the highest levels of concentration, but regardless of the method, good concentration leads to good learning. Therefore, there is a need for diverse strategies to enhance concentration in lessons.
The Effects of Anesthesia Methods on the Prognosis of Elderly Patients Undergoing Upper Limb Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yin Ning , Wally Elijah , OLAGUNJU Mobolaji Timothy , Swapnil-Zaman Ashraful Haque
Published: March 2024

Background
The geriatric population presents unique challenges in the perioperative setting due to age-related physiological changes, comorbidities, and altered drug responses. Adapting anesthesia to the particular requirements of elderly patients is crucial for maximizing the success of surgical procedures and reducing the risk of complications and death during the perioperative period; this systematic review aims to assess the selection of anesthetic methods and medications used in upper limb surgeries for elderly patients. By compiling and analyzing data from existing published research, the review seeks to clarify the relative effectiveness, safety, and potential outcomes of various anesthesia techniques used in older individuals undergoing surgeries on the upper extremities.
Methods
Our study employed a systematic review methodology following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The study evaluated anesthesia techniques and drugs for upper limb surgery in older adults. Articles were identified through WEB of SCIENCE, MEDLINE, PUBMED, CINAHL searches, and Hand-Searching from January 2000 to January 2024, with eligibility criteria targeting studies on anesthesia for upper extremity surgeries only in older adults ≥ 65 years. Data extraction included study characteristics and outcomes related to anesthesia techniques and drugs. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials and the ROBINS-I tool for non-randomized studies of interventions.
Results
18 articles met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. The effectiveness of regional anesthesia is influenced by several factors. The addition of upper-extremity peripheral nerve blocks to general anesthesia during total shoulder arthroplasty has been shown not to increase the risk of complications or resource utilization. In arteriovenous fistula surgery, the application of a brachial plexus block for anesthesia has been shown to increase tissue oxygenation, as indicated by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy. Rotator cuff surgery pain management now favors continuous supraclavicular block, offering comparable pain relief to interscalene block but with fewer side effects
Conclusion
The review emphasizes the significance of selecting appropriate anesthesia techniques and drugs for upper limb surgery in elderly patients to enhance surgical outcomes and reduce perioperative complications.
Factors influencing nest site selection in Laughing Dove (Spilopelia senegalensis) in an urban landscape in Karaj, Iran
Authors: Banisaffar Morteza , Shabani Afshin Alizadeh
Published: March 2024

Urban habitats, such as natural ones, are rapidly changing. Thus, conservation and management of species adapted to urban environments can be challenging. Nest site selection is a pivotal point in the process of habitat selection and breeding in bird species. We investigated the influence of several spatial and structural factors on the nest site selection of Laughing Dove (Spilopelia senegalensis) in an urban landscape in Karaj, Iran. We also surveyed the feasibility of occupying artificial nest boxes (n = 17) by Laughing Doves between February and September 2019. We recorded 32 nest presence sites and 64 random nest absence sites. To model nest site selection, we conducted a spline binary logistic regression analysis. Three variables were identified as significant factors influencing the nest site selection of Laughing Dove: Nest height from the ground (p = 0.04), with an optimal range of 290–350 cm; nest detection chance (p = 0.06), invisible places from the front and sides were most favorable; and distance to opposite building (p = 0.07), with an optimal range of 15–38 m. The occupancy rate of the artificial nest boxes was 35.3%. This study showed that nest site selection of the urban-adapted Laughing Dove is highly dependent on the security and food provided by humans.
LncRNA-H19 Promotes Adipogenic Differentiation Disorder by Regulating miR-130b-3p/PPARγ Axis in Steroid-induced Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head
Authors: Lin Feifei , Yi Min , Zhou Shicheng , Wang Qingyu
Published: March 2024

Steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH) represents a frequent and debilitating orthopedic condition. It is widely believed that the adipogenic/osteogenic differentiation disorder of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) contributes to the development of SONFH. However, the regulatory mechanism of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the differentiation disorder of BMSCs remains elusive. The expression levels of H19 were detected in both femoral head tissues and BMSCs from patients with SONFH. The role of the lncRNA H19 in SONFH was explored through bioinformatics analysis complemented by relevant validation experiments. Our findings revealed that H19 was significantly up-regulated in SONFH tissues as well as BMSCs. Silencing H19 suppressed BMSC adipogenic differentiation in SONFH and the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). Furthermore, we found that H19 could interact with miR-130b-3p, and miR-130b-3p could directly inhibit PPARγ expression. In conclusion, this study uncovered that abnormally up-regulated H19 leads to abnormal lipogenic differentiation in SONFH by acting as a sponge for miR-130b-3p and upregulating PPARγ.
The Canonical Correlation between Executive Function and Social Skill and their Relationship to Physical Quality in Children with Autism
Authors: Wang Qiang , jia shuqi , Cai Zhidong , Jiang Wanting , Wang Xing , Wang Jing
Published: March 2024

OBJECTIVE
To investigate the relationship between executive function and social skill and their relationship to physical quality in children with ASD.
METHODS: A cross-sectional research design was used to investigate 117 school-age children with ASD and 311 typically developing children by using the BRIEF scale, the Social Responsiveness Scale, and physical function tests. Canonical correlations were used to analyze the relationship between executive function and social skill, and analyses of variance and correlations were used to explore the relationship between physical quality and the two.
RESULTS: Children with ASD had significantly lower dimensions of executive function and social skill than typically developing children (p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between the two categories of executive function scores and social skill scores (1st canonical correlation coefficient: 0.641, P < 0.001), and 20.4% of the variance in social skill was related to executive function. Physical quality had an effect on both canonical correlated variables, but balance quality was not significantly related (P > 0.05), and grip strength had the strongest correlation (r = -0.485 to -0.535, P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION: There was a strong interrelationship between executive function and social skill in school-age children with ASD, and potential changes in physical quality contributed to the improvement of both symptoms.
The Association of Social Networks and Depression in Community-dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Reiner Amelie , Steinhoff Paula
Published: March 2024

Background & Objective: Depression is a globally prevalent mental condition, particularly among older adults. Previous research has identified that social networks have a buffering effect on depression. Existing systematic literature reviews have either limited their research to specific geographic areas or provided evidence from over a decade ago. The vast body of recent literature particularly from the last decade emphasizes the need for a comprehensive review. This systematic literature review aims to analyze the association of structural aspects of social networks and depression in older adults.
Methods: Relevant electronic databases (APA PsycINFO, ProQuest, PSYINDEX, PubMed, Scopus, SocINDEX, and Web of Science) are systematically searched for English articles published until July 2023. Starting from 47,702 articles matching the keywords search on social networks and depression among older adults (mean ≥60 years) and adhering to strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, 128 articles are identified.
Results: The study categorizes structural network aspects into seven domains and finds that larger and more diverse networks, along with closer social ties, help mitigate depression. The literature on the relationships between depression and network density, homogeneity, and geographical proximity is scarce and inconclusive.
Discussion and Implications: Despite inconsistent findings, this review highlights the importance of quantifying complex social relations of older adults. Further research should use longitudinal approaches to further investigate the reciprocal relationship between social networks and depression. Following this review, interventions should promote the integration of older adults in larger and more diverse social settings.
Systematic review registration: This systematic review was pre-registered. The review-protocol can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/6QDPK.
Reaction of Luffa spp. to Macrophomina pseudophaseolina inoculation
Authors: Viana Dariane Monteiro , Negreiros Andréia Mitsa Paiva , Silveira Lindomar Maria , Cavalcante Allinny Luzia Alves , Alves Cynthia Patricia Sousa Santos , Júnior Rui Sales
Published: March 2024

The genus Macrophomina is responsible for causing diseases in various species of the Cucurbitaceae family. This study aimed to evaluate the reaction of Luffa species when associated with M. pseudophaseolina. Initially, a prospection study was carried out to identify fungi associated with Luffa roots. Three isolates belonging to the M. pseudophaseolina species were identified and confirmed by DNA extraction and PCR amplification, using specific primers. One isolate was selected to test pathogenicity on Luffa. Twelve Luffa spp. accessions from the cucurbitaceous germplasm collection of Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido were used, along with two positive controls: melon and watermelon plants. Inoculation was performed using the infested toothpick method. The plants were maintained under greenhouse conditions in a completely randomized design with four replications. The trial was repeated. The following variables were assessed: disease incidence and severity, reaction class, shoot length (SL), root length (RL), fresh shoot weight (FSW), dry shoot weight (DSW), fresh root weight (FRW), and dry root weight (DRW). Accession AB39 proved to be immune to the pathogen, as well as exhibiting the highest values of SL (163.9 cm), RL (43.4 cm), FSW (24.9 g), FRW (9.8 g), DSW (3.4 g), and DRW (0.5 g). These results indicate that the immune resistance of AB39 makes this accession promising, both in terms of disease resistance and vegetative growth, standing out as the best option among the accessions evaluated. Additionally, this is the first report of Luffa spp. acting as an alternative host of M. pseudophaseolina.
Reexamination of the relationships among neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning in chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Lee Kunhua , Yu Chuan-Hsun
Published: March 2024

Purpose
This study proposed and evaluated a theoretical model for exploring the relationships between neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning in individuals with chronic schizophrenia.
Method
The study recruited 229 individuals given a diagnosis of schizophrenia from outpatient clinics and the day ward of a mental health hospital. After informed consent was obtained, the participants underwent assessments using the backward digit span, the digit symbol, and measures of self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning. A structural equation model was applied to assess the fitness of the hypothesized model, with indices such as the goodness-of-fit index, comparative fit index, root mean square error of approximation, and standardized root mean square residual being used for model evaluation.
Results
The hypothesized model had an adequate fit. The study findings indicated that neurocognition might indirectly influence self-defeatist beliefs through its effect on experiential negative symptoms. Contrary to expectations, the study did not observe a direct influence of neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, or negative symptoms on social functioning. The revised model revealed the role of experiential negative symptoms in mediating the association between neurocognition and social functioning. However, self-defeatist beliefs did not significantly affect social functioning.
Discussion
Compared with the modification of beliefs, self-awareness training can help improve negative symptoms and thereby improve the performance of social functions. Future research should develop a hierarchical program of negative symptoms, from cognition rehabilitation to enhancement of self-awareness, and end with modifying maladaptive beliefs.
Influence of Variations of Craniovertebral Junction Anatomy on Safe C1 Lateral Mass and C2 Pedicle Screw Insertion: A Cadaveric and Radiologic Study
Authors: Karatas Derya , Dagtekin Ahmet , Uygur Saygi , Barut Irmak Tekeli , Kara Engin , Esen Kaan , Avci Emel , Baskaya Mustafa Kemal
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The aim of the present study is to analyze the feasibility of a new optimized C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle screw method that has a suitable trajectory for a range of anatomical variations to decrease the risk of vertebral artery injury.
Methods: The craniovertebral junction of 17 cadavers (34 sides) were dissected after performing thin-cut computed tomography. The screw entry points, targets, angles, and lengths of the trajectories were performed for C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle. We particularly focused on the morphometric features and the safety of trajectories in cadavers with vascular and bony variations.
Results: For the C1 lateral mass, the ideal medial and cranial angles were 13.4° ± 1.0° and 14.7° ± 1.1°, respectively. For the C2 pedicle screw, the cranial and medial angles were 27.7° ± 1.4° and 20.4° ± 1.5°, respectively. High-riding vertebral arteries (HRVA) were observed in 23% of all sides. The prevalence of an arcuate foramen was 52.9% and its coexistence with an HRVA was 35.3%.
Conclusion: Preoperative pedicle-oriented radiological evaluation is crucial before C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle screw placement because of the high incidence of bony and vascular variations. Using our safe C2 pedicle trajectory, a longer and safer screw course that preserves the vertebral artery can be achieved with a more feasible cranial angle, even with HRVAs, with the exception of narrow pedicle anatomy.