bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rem2 interacts with CaMKII at synapses and restricts long-term potentiation in hippocampus
Authors: Anjum Rabia , Clarke Vernon R. J. , Nagasawa Yutaro , Murakoshi Hideji , Paradis Suzanne
Published: July 2024

Synaptic plasticity, the process whereby neuronal connections are either strengthened or weakened in response to stereotyped forms of stimulation, is widely believed to represent the molecular mechanism that underlies learning and memory. The holoenzyme calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) plays a well-established and critical role in the induction of a variety of forms of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP), long-term depression (LTD) and depotentiation. Previously, we identified the GTPase Rem2 as a potent, endogenous inhibitor of CaMKII. Here, we report that knock out of Rem2 enhances LTP at the Schaffer collateral to CA1 synapse in hippocampus, consistent with an inhibitory action of Rem2 on CaMKII in vivo. Further, re-expression of WT Rem2 rescues the enhanced LTP observed in slices obtained from Rem2 conditional knock out (cKO) mice, while expression of a mutant Rem2 construct that is unable to inhibit CaMKII in vitro fails to rescue increased LTP. In addition, we demonstrate that CaMKII and Rem2 interact in dendritic spines using a 2pFLIM-FRET approach. Taken together, our data lead us to propose that Rem2 serves as a brake on synaptic potentiation via inhibition of CaMKII activity. Further, the enhanced LTP phenotype we observe in Rem2 cKO slices reveals a previously unknown role for Rem2 in the negative regulation of CaMKII function.
Household food insecurity and its association with academic performance among primary school adolescents in Hargeisa City, Somaliland
Authors: Adam Sagal Mohamed , Teshoma Melese Sinaga , Ahmed Awale Sh. Dahir , Tamiru Dessalegn
Published: July 2024

Background

Academic achievement is crucial for the social and economic development of young people and determines the quality of education of a nation. According to different studies, food insecurity adversely affects children’s health, nutrition, and subsequent decline in academic performance by impairing students’ ability to learn and therefore affects the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. To provide evidence on the association of food insecurity with academic performance is necessary. The current study assessed household food insecurity and its association with academic performance among primary school adolescents in Hargeisa City, Somaliland.

Methods

A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 630 primary school adolescents from December 2021 to March 2022. Students were selected using a multistage sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on household food security and socio-demographic variables and entered into Epi data version 3.1. The data was exported to SPSS version 26 for descriptive and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals together with p <0.05 were utilized to declare statistical significance.

Results

The prevalence of food insecurity among school adolescents was 59.21%. The majority (55.40%) of the school adolescents were poor academic performers. The frequency of adolescents’ poor academic performance was significantly high (71.05%) among food insecure households (P < 0.001) as compared to their counterparts whose households were food secure (32.68%). On multivariable analysis, household food insecurity (AOR = 5.24, 95%CI = 3.17–8.65), school absenteeism (AOR = 3.49, 95%CI = 2.20–5.53), spending >2h/day watching TV / screen media use (AOR = 9.08, 95%CI = 4.81–17.13), high and middle wealth households (AOR = 0.51, 95%CI = 0.30–0.88) (AOR = 0.40, 95%CI = 0.21–0.76) and habitual breakfast consumption (AOR = 0.08, 95%CI = 0.03–0.20) had shown statistically significant association with academic performance among primary school adolescents.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that household food insecurity has a high association with adolescents’ academic performance. The prevalence of food insecurity is moderate, based on the household food insecurity access scale. The results indicate the need for policies and programs intended to improve household income by developing income-generation programs for lower-income families and enhance feeding programs such as national school lunch and school feeding across schools in the country.
The antecedents of customer satisfaction in the live-streaming commerce of green agricultural products
Authors: Wang Ying , Fang Lin , Pan Jialing
Published: July 2024

Live-streaming technology has been widely adopted to promote the sale of green agricultural products. Based on the literature regarding electronic commerce and customer satisfaction, this article integrates expectation-disconfirmation theory and the SERVQUAL model to investigate the antecedents of customer satisfaction and the routes along which the former drives the latter in the live-streaming commerce of green agricultural products. Our results demonstrate that most consumers are satisfied with the live-streaming commerce of green agricultural products, with an overall satisfaction degree of medium to high. In addition, a total of four antecedents are identified, namely commodity, live-streaming platforms, live-streaming contents and supporting services. Among the variables relevant to commodity, “commodity brand building” has the highest weight. Meanwhile, the corresponding variables for live-streaming platforms, live-streaming contents and supporting services are “interface design”, “live-streaming atmosphere” and “privacy protection”, respectively. Furthermore, live-streaming platforms are found to have the strongest direct influence on customer satisfaction, while commodity is found to have the strongest indirect and total influence on customer satisfaction. The theoretical and managerial implications are discussed at the conclusion of this article.
Predicting soil thermal properties in freeze-thaw cycles using EFAttNet: A comparative analysis
Authors: Wang Pengcheng , Firat Muge Elif , Lin Yi , Wang Tengfei
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the thermal conductivity (λ) and volumetric heat capacity (C) of sandy soil samples under a variety of conditions, including freeze-thaw cycles at temperatures both above and below zero and differing moisture levels. To estimate these thermal properties, a novel predictive model, EFAttNet, was developed, which utilizes custom-designed embedding and attention-based fusion networks. When compared to traditional de Vries empirical models and other baseline algorithms, EFAttNet demonstrated superior accuracy. Preliminary measurements showed that λ values increased linearly with moisture content but decreased with temperature, whereas C values exhibited a rising trend with both moisture content and freezing temperature. Following freeze-thaw cycles, both λ and C were positively influenced by moisture content and freezing temperature. The EFAttNet-based model proved highly accurate in predicting thermal properties, particularly effective at capturing nonlinear relationships among the influencing factors. Among these factors, the degree of saturation had the most significant impact, followed by the number of freeze-thaw cycles, subzero temperatures, porosity, and moisture content. Notably, dry density exerted minimal influence on thermal properties, likely due to the overriding effects of other factors or specific soil characteristics, such as particle size distribution or mineralogical composition. These findings have significant implications for construction and engineering projects, especially in terms of sustainability and energy efficiency. The demonstrated accuracy of the EFAttNet-based model in estimating thermal properties under various conditions holds promise for practical applications. Although focused on specific soil types and conditions, the insights gained can guide further research and development in managing soil thermal properties across diverse environments, thereby enhancing our understanding and application in this field.
Comprehensive insights into a decade-long journey: The evolution, impact, and human factors of an asynchronous telemedicine program for diabetic retinopathy screening in Pennsylvania, United States
Authors: Bonilla-Escobar Francisco J. , Ghobrial Anthony I. , Gallagher Denise S. , Eller Andrew , Waxman Evan L.
Published: July 2024

Diabetic Retinopathy stands as a leading cause of irreversible blindness, necessitating frequent examinations, especially in the early stages where effective treatments are available. However, current examination rates vary widely, ranging from 25–60%. This study scrutinizes the Point-of-Care Diabetic Retinopathy Examination Program at the University of Pittsburgh/UPMC, delving into its composition, evolution, challenges, solutions, and improvement opportunities. Employing a narrative approach, insights are gathered from key stakeholders, including ophthalmologists and staff from primary care clinics. A quantitative analysis from 2008 to 2020 provides a comprehensive overview of program outcomes, covering 94 primary care offices with 51 retinal cameras. Program components feature automated non-mydriatic 45° retinal cameras, a dedicated coordinator, rigorous training, and standardized workflows. Over this period, the program conducted 21,960 exams in 16,458 unique individuals, revealing a diverse population with an average age of 58.5 and a balanced gender distribution. Average body mass index (33.96±8.02 kg/m2) and hemoglobin A1c (7.58%±1.88%) surpassed normal ranges, indicating prevalent risk factors for diabetes-related complications. Notably, 24.2% of patients underwent more than one exam, emphasizing program engagement. Findings indicated that 86.3% of exams were gradable, with 59.0% within normal limits, 12.1% showing some evidence of diabetic retinopathy, and 6.4% exhibiting vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy. Follow-up appointments with ophthalmologists were recommended in 31.5% of exams due to indeterminate results, positive diabetic retinopathy (≥moderate or macular exudate), or other findings like age-related macular degeneration or suspected glaucoma. The program demonstrated high reproducibility across diverse healthcare settings, featuring a sustainable model with minimal camera downtime, standardized workflows, and financial support from grants, health systems, and clinical revenues. Despite COVID-19 pandemic challenges, this research emphasizes the program’s reproducibility, user-friendly evolution, and promising outcomes. Beyond technical contributions, it highlights human factors influencing program success. Future research could explore adherence to follow-up ophthalmological recommendations and its associated factors.
A qualitative study on the challenges of Afghan child labourers in Tehran
Authors: Ziapour Arash , Chaboksavar Fakhreddin , Ahmadi Ahmad , Lebni Javad Yoosefi , Kianipour Neda , Janjani Parisa , Mehedi Nafiul
Published: July 2024

Afghan refugees child labourers face many challenges as they are labelled as refugees. In an attempt to explore these challenges, the present study was conducted in Tehran with a qualitative approach. The present qualitative research was conducted using a conventional content analysis approach with 25 Afghan child labourers in 2022 in Tehran. Child labourers were selected through purposive and snowball sampling and interviewed in a semi-in-depth interview. The data were analysed based on Granheim and Lundman’s criteria, as well as those of Guba and Lincoln, to further enrich the findings. A total of 3 categories, 13 sub-categories, and 183 initial codes were extracted from the data analysis, including: "psychological challenges" (history of harassment and abuse, negative effects, high-risk behaviours, and family detachment); "health challenges" (physical problems, inappropriate accommodation, medical/therapeutic problems, and health threats); and "social challenges" (neglected childhood, dual identity, educational limitations, inadequate social support, social isolation, and social humiliation). At the individual level, it is possible to meet the child labourers’ health needs and make them aware of the hazards of working in the streets through physical examination at certain intervals and holding training workshops on harassment prevention, anger control, prevention of high-risk behaviours, prevention of infectious diseases such as hepatitis, and strengthening self-confidence to improve health. Also, the Afghan child labourers’ work could be intervened at the social and familial level by providing accommodation in more suitable neighbourhoods, providing health insurance for child labourers, creating the chances of studying in schools, preventing dropouts, and strengthening social relations in order to improve children’s health.
Health conditions contribution to disability burden in Spain and the role of ethnicity and migrant status: A nation-wide study
Authors: Casillas-Clot Javier , Pereyra-Zamora Pamela , Nolasco Andreu
Published: July 2024

Background

Disability is frequently associated with contextual or lifestyle factors. Some health conditions may affect the prevalence of disability differently, especially for some minority groups. This study aims to assess the impact and contribution of different health conditions to disability burden in Spain in Roma and immigrant populations, compared to the general population.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. We have used data from the Spanish National Survey of 2017 and the National Health Survey of the Roma Population 2014. We have calculated frequencies of demographic variables and prevalence of health conditions grouped by body function. We also have fitted binomial additive hazard models, using the attribution method, to assess disabling impact and contribution of health conditions to disability burden. The software R was used for the computations.

Results

Roma and immigrant populations had worse socioeconomic status than the general population, although the gap was more heavily marked among Roma. Roma population showed a higher prevalence in all health conditions, with a disability prevalence of 57.90%, contrary to the immigrant population, that showed a lower prevalence in all health conditions, including disability (30.79%), than the general population (40.00%). However, all health conditions were more disabling in the immigrant population. Neurological and cardiovascular diseases, and accidents among Roma, were the most disabling conditions. Nevertheless, musculoskeletal, chronic pain, and sensory diseases among Roma, had a greater contribution to disability burden, mainly due to a combination of a great prevalence and a great impact in functions of those health conditions.

Conclusion

Both ethnicity and migrant status have shown differences in the burden of disability. While in the general population, musculoskeletal problems have the greatest contribution to the disability burden, in immigrants it was chronic pain and in the Roma population it was sensory problems. Disparities by sex were also found, with the contribution of musculoskeletal diseases being more important in females.
Unraveling the causes of the Seoul Halloween crowd-crush disaster
Authors: Liang Haoyang , Lee Seunghyeon , Sun Jian , WONG S. C.
Published: July 2024

As the world steadily recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, managing large gatherings becomes a critical concern for ensuring crowd safety. The crowd-crush disaster in Seoul in 2022 highlights the need for effective predictive crowd management techniques. In this study, an empirical analysis of this incident is conducted using data from various sources, and model-based simulations are created to replicate hazardous crowd conditions in high-risk areas. In the empirical analysis, mobile device data indicates a significant increase in population above normal levels in the disaster area just hours before the incident occurred. In the simulations, a hydrodynamic model is employed to simulate a bidirectional collision, which quantitatively demonstrates that the average density during the crush reached 7.57 ped/m2 (with a maximum of (9.95)ped/m2). Additionally, the average crowd pressure peaked at 1,063 N/m (with a maximum of 1,961 N/m), and the maximum velocity entropy was 10.99. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the primary causes of the disaster were the substantial population, bidirectional collision, and escalating panic. The results of controlled simulations under various management strategies are then presented. By implementing effective crowd management techniques, crowd safety can be enhanced through quantitative comparisons of these key indicators.
Effectiveness of D-dimer in predicting distant metastasis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Wenxing , Wang Xuan , Lin Jinhe , Dang Chengxue , Diao Dongmei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Patients with cancer often present with a hypercoagulable state, which is closely associated with tumor progression. The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic efficacy of D-dimer in predicting distant metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

This study included 529 patients diagnosed with CRC at our hospital between January 2020 and December 2022. Plasma coagulation indicators and tumor markers were collected prior to treatment and their diagnostic efficacy for predicting CRC metastasis was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Independent risk factors for evaluating tumor metastasis were obtained by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The level of D-dimer in the metastatic group was significantly higher than that in the non-metastatic group (P<0.001). The results of the multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that lower level of prealbumin and platelet, and higher level of glucose, CEA and D-dimer were independent risk factors for distant metastasis in patients with CRC (P<0.05, respectively). The combination of prealbumin, glucose, D-dimer, platelet and tumor markers (PRE2) was found to be significantly more effective in predicting metastasis of CRC when compared to the combination of tumor marker alone (PRE1, P<0.001).

Conclusion

Plasma D-dimer may be a novel tumor marker for screening metastases of CRC.
Evaluating the drivers of B2B performance: An empirical analysis based on Alibaba
Authors: Feng Miao , Si Haoran , Li Yang , Zhang Junrui
Published: July 2024

The rapid development of B2B has brought about fierce competition among suppliers, and how to gain customer attention and improve performance has become a common concern in academia and industry. This study examined the drivers and mechanisms of B2B performance from an enterprise capability perspective. We collected transaction and enterprise data from 325 suppliers on Alibaba 1688 platform and constructed a structural equation model (SEM). Results showed that supplier service capability, logistics capability, and production capacity all positively impacted B2B performance through the mediating role of customer attention. In addition, we found that service and logistics capabilities are more critical for attracting customer attention for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) suppliers than for non-OEM suppliers. The findings contribute to understanding B2B commerce and provide constructive directions for B2B suppliers to improve their performance.
Can internal medicine specialists diagnose functional somatic disorders (FSDs)? Training and comparison with FSD specialists
Authors: Madsen Michael Moesmann , Trolle Christian , Fynne Lotte , Ørnbøl Eva , Fink Per , Gormsen Lise Kirstine
Published: July 2024

Background

Functional somatic disorders (FSD) are a common problem across medical settings and remain challenging to diagnose and treat. Many patients with FSD undergo sequential and unnecessary extensive diagnostic work-up, which is costly for society and stressful for patients. Previous studies have shown that the empirically based FSD diagnostic entities are interrater reliable and stable over time.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate whether internists who have received adequate training and with sufficient time per patient could diagnose FSD.

Design

This was a prospective diagnostic accuracy study. The study was conducted from May 2020 to April 2022.

Participants

The study included 27 consecutive patients referred by their general practitioner to a non-psychiatric diagnostic clinic for assessment of physical symptoms on suspicion of FSD.

Interventions

The internists received a 30-hour training course in the use of a tailored version of the SCAN interview.

Main measures

The main outcome measure was the agreement between the diagnoses of the internists and the reference diagnoses made by specialists in FSD on the basis of the full SCAN interview.

Key results

The interrater agreement between the internists and the FSD experts was substantial for any FSD (kappa = 0.63) as well as multi-organ vs. single-organ FSD (kappa = 0.73), indicating good diagnostic agreement.

Conclusions

Internists with proper training and sufficient time (3–4 hours) per patient can proficiently diagnose FSD employing a tailored version of the SCAN interview for use in a non-psychiatric diagnostic setting.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B virus infection and its determinants among pregnant women in East Africa: Systematic review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Yirsaw Bantie Getnet , Agimas Muluken Chanie , Alemu Gebrie Getu , Tesfie Tigabu Kidie , Derseh Nebiyu Mekonnen , Abuhay Habtamu Wagnew , Alemayehu Meron Asmamaw , Yismaw Getaneh Awoke
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the major public health problems globally and needs an urgent response. It is one of the most responsible causes of mortality among the five hepatitis viruses, and it affects almost every class of individuals. Different studies were conducted on the prevalence of HBV among pregnant women in East African countries, but none of them showed the pooled prevalence of HBV among the pregnant women. Thus, the main objective of this study was to determine the pooled prevalence and its determinants among pregnant women in East Africa.

Methods

We searched studies using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and grey literature that were published between January 01/2020 to January 30/2024. The studies were assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) quality assessment scale. The random-effect (DerSimonian) model was used to determine the pooled prevalence and associated factors of HBV among pregnant women. Heterogeneity were assessed by I2statistic, sub-group analysis, and sensitivity analysis. Publication bias was assessed by Egger test, and the analysis was done using STATA version 17.

Result

A total of 45 studies with 35639 pregnant women were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of HBV among pregnant women in East Africa was 6.0% (95% CI: 6.0%−7.0%, I2= 89.7%). The highest prevalence of 8% ((95% CI: 6%, 10%), I2= 91.08%) was seen in 2021, and the lowest prevalence 5% ((95% CI: 4%, 6%) I2= 52.52%) was observed in 2022. A pooled meta-analysis showed that history of surgical procedure (OR = 2.14 (95% CI: 1.27, 3.61)), having multiple sexual partners (OR = 3.87 (95% CI: 2.52, 5.95), history of body tattooing (OR = 2.55 (95% CI: 1.62, 4.01)), history of tooth extraction (OR = 2.09 (95% CI: 1.29, 3.39)), abortion history(OR = 2.20(95% CI: 1.38, 3.50)), history of sharing sharp material (OR = 1.88 (95% CI: 1.07, 3.31)), blood transfusion (OR = 2.41 (95% CI: 1.62, 3.57)), family history of HBV (OR = 4.87 (95% CI: 2.95, 8.05)) and history needle injury (OR = 2.62 (95% CI: 1.20, 5.72)) were significant risk factors associated with HBV infection among pregnant women.

Conclusions

The pooled prevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women in East Africa was an intermediate level and different across countries ranging from 1.5% to 22.2%. The result of this pooled prevalence was an indication of the need for screening, prevention, and control of HBV infection among pregnant women in the region. Therefore, early identification of risk factors, awareness creation on the mode of transmission HBV and implementation of preventive measures are essential in reducing the burden of HBV infection among pregnant women.
Study on flow field characteristics of gas-liquid hydrocyclone separation under vibration conditions
Authors: Zhang Xiaoguang , Yu Fan , Jin Yu , Zhao Lixin , Wang Suling , Xu Baorui
Published: July 2024

The complex vibration phenomenon occurs in the downhole environment of the gas-liquid hydrocyclone, which affects the flow field in the hydrocyclone. In order to study the influence of vibration on hydrocyclone separation, the characteristics of the flow field in the downhole gas-liquid hydrocyclone were analyzed and studied under the condition of vibration coupling. Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Computational Solid Mechanics Method (CSM) and fluid-solid coupling method, a fluid-solid coupling mechanical model of a gas-liquid cyclone is established. It is found that under the condition of vibration coupling, the velocity components in the three directions of the hydrocyclone flow field change obviously. The peak values of tangential velocity and axial velocity decrease, and the asymmetry of radial velocity increases. The distribution regularity of vorticity and turbulence intensity in the overflow pipe becomes worse. Among them, the vorticity intensity of the overflow pipe is obviously enhanced, and the higher turbulence intensity near the wall occupies more area distribution range. The gas-liquid separation efficiency of the hydrocyclone will decrease with the increase of the rotational speed of the screw pump, and the degree of reduction can reach more than 10%. However, this effect will decrease with the increase of the rotational speed of the screw pump, so the excitation effect caused by the rotational speed has a maximum limit on the flow field.
Currency risk analysis of belt and road initiative countries
Authors: Li Mengyang , Liu Wencui , Wang Lei
Published: July 2024

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlight the role of debt sustainability in achieving sustainable development. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is an international cooperation effort that is endorsed by over 150 countries and organizations. Given the alignment between BRI development goals and the SDGs, the issue of debt sustainability in BRI countries warrants attention. While existing studies focus on sovereign risk in debt sustainability, there is a lack of emphasis on currency risk, indicating a need for further investigation to mitigate risks and comprehensively evaluate debt stability. Using data from 142 countries, this study examines currency risk reduction in BRI countries by assessing currency competitiveness. We find that the US dollar (USD) is the most competitive currency among BRI countries, followed by the Euro (EUR), Chinese yuan (CNY), sterling pound (GBP), and Japanese yen (JPY). The USD maintains its competitive edge over time, making it the preferred choice, with the EUR as a less optimal option and the CNY showing potential. Geographically, the EUR’s close ties with BRI countries lend it prominence, followed by the USD, with the CNY gaining traction. GBP and JPY are considered conservative choices. Recommendations for currency selection vary based on countries’ competitiveness, bilateral relationships, and development status.
Gastric Pneumatosis: the tale of two late preterm infants with Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Authors: Jarvis Shivon Belle , Hughes Saleem , Richardson Claudine
Published: July 2024

Gastric pneumatosis though rare, when seen is cause for concern. It has been associated with fulminant necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and gastric outlet obstruction, although other associations have been identified. It is not to be confused with pneumoperitoneum and can be managed conservatively as it is not always a harbinger of intestinal perforation. This case report highlights gastric pneumatosis which occurred in association with necrotizing enterocolitis in two late preterm infants. NEC accounts for 5.4% of our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admissions, however these are the first two cases of gastric pneumatosis seen in the history of our unit. It is crucial for clinical staff to be cognizant of this pathognomonic sign so that cases are not missed, and for the feeding policy that governs the management of late preterm infants to be revisited. That which specifically predisposes a baby with NEC to developing gastric pneumatosis remains unknown and warrants further research.
Newborns' MicroRNA Expression as Potential Biomarkers for Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Isea Raúl
Published: July 2024

The work emphasizes the need for additional research to create novel biomarkers based on the use of microRNAs as a less invasive and precise diagnostic technique for identifying diseases in newborns.
Psychiatric Disorders Among 5,800 Patients With Microscopic Colitis: A Nationwide Population-Based Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Bergman David , Roelstraete Bjorn , Sun Jiangwei , Ebrahimi Fahim , Butwicka Agnieszka , Pardi Darrell S. , Ludvigsson Jonas F.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory condition of the large intestine. Primarily diagnosed in middle-aged and older adults, the incidence of the disease has increased markedly during the past few decades. While MC is associated with a reduced quality of life, large-scale studies on the association with future psychiatric disorders are lacking.

METHODS:

We conducted a nationwide matched cohort study in Sweden from 2006 to 2021. Through a nationwide histopathology database (the Epidemiology Strengthened by histoPathology Reports in Sweden study), we identified 5,816 patients with a colorectal biopsy consistent with MC. These patients were matched with 21,509 reference individuals from the general population all of whom with no previous record of psychiatric disorders.

RESULTS:

From 2006 to 2021, 519 patients with MC (median age 64.4 years [interquartile range = 49.5–73.3]) and 1,313 reference individuals were diagnosed with psychiatric disorders (9.9 vs 6.5 events per 1,000 person-years), corresponding to 1 extra case of psychiatric disorder in 29 patients with MC over 10 years. After adjustments, the hazard ratio for psychiatric disorders was 1.57 (95% confidence interval = 1.42–1.74). We found significantly elevated estimates up to 10 years after MC diagnosis and a trend toward higher risk with increasing age. Specifically, we observed increased risks for unipolar depression, anxiety disorders, stress-related disorders, substance abuse, and suicide attempts. In sibling-controlled analysis, the adjusted hazard ratio was 1.76 (95% confidence interval = 1.44–2.15).

DISCUSSION:

Patients with MC are at increased risk of incident psychiatric disorders compared with the general population.
Penile Prosthetic Pump Reservoir Mimicking a Cecal Subepithelial Mass
Authors: Ameyaw Prince Addo , Aslanian Harry R.
Published: July 2024

Intestinal subepithelial lesions are often encountered during endoscopy. Etiologies can include lesions intrinsic or extrinsic to the gastrointestinal wall. They can present a diagnostic dilemma as simple mucosal biopsies are often nondiagnostic. The combination of characteristic radiographic, endoscopic, and endosonographic features can aid in a definitive diagnosis precluding the need for unnecessary tissue sampling of extrinsic compressive etiologies. The location of the space of Retzius which is the traditional site of penile prosthetic pump reservoir insertion can predispose to cecal compression. We present a rare case of a penile prosthetic pump reservoir presenting as a cecal subepithelial mass on endoscopy.
Colloid Carcinoma of the Pancreas: A Rare Initial Presentation of Lynch Syndrome
Authors: Tariq Zoon , Riess Joanna , Johnson Lynt B. , Younes Mamoun
Published: July 2024

Patients with Lynch syndrome, most commonly associated with colorectal cancer, have an increased risk of developing other tumors including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and precursor lesions, such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms. Here, we present a case of a man in his early 20s who presented with a retroperitoneal mass involving the head of the pancreas. Following a pancreaticoduodenectomy combined with para-aortic lymphadenectomy, a pathologic diagnosis of colloid carcinoma, also known as mucinous noncystic carcinoma, of the pancreas was reported. Further testing established the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome. This case is unique because colloid carcinoma of the pancreas is rare and has never been reported as an initial presentation of Lynch syndrome.
SpyGlass/Cholangioscope-Assisted Colonoscopic Removal of Appendicolith as a Nonsurgical Alternative for Stump Appendicitis Management
Authors: Sudan Aarushi , Julka Dhawani , Patel Sunny A.
Published: July 2024

An appendicolith is a calcified mass which can obstruct the appendix often leading to recurrent appendicitis. Failure to extract fecalith at the time of appendectomy can lead to recurrent inflammation in the appendiceal stump. We describe a 28-year-old man with stump appendicitis due to a retained fecalith postappendectomy. Our approach, akin to interval appendectomy, combines antibiotics and endoscopic intervention postinfection resolution. This case highlights the feasibility and safety of endoscopic management, offering a nonsurgical alternative to prevent the morbidity associated with revision surgery. Further exploration of nonsurgical modalities is warranted to optimize patient outcomes.
The Potential Role of Female Sex Hormones in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A 2-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Pan Jiaqi , Jiang Wenxi , Xin Linying , Wu Jiali , Zhu Shefeng , Liu Zhaoxue , Shen Zhe
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

An association between female sex hormones and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been reported in epidemiological studies. However, a solid causal relationship has not been established. Therefore, we performed a 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to explore the causal association between genetically predicted female sex hormone exposure, especially estrogen, and IBD.

METHODS:

Genetic variants for female sex hormone exposure (ovulatory function, reproductive function, oral contraceptive pills, and hormone replacement therapy) were obtained from genome-wide association studies. Summary statistics for IBD were derived from the International Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics Consortium. We applied inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median (WM) methods in this MR study. Heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to confirm the accuracy and robustness of our results.

RESULTS:

Our study found that genetically predicted age at menarche was associated with an increased risk of Crohn's disease (odds ratio [OR]IVW 1.235, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.028–1.484, P = 0.024), genetically predicted age of the last used hormone replacement therapy was associated with an increased risk of ulcerative colitis (ORWM 1.636, 95% CI 1.011–2.648, P = 0.045), and genetically predicted number of live births was related to a decreased risk of Crohn's disease (ORIVW 0.583, 95% CI 0.373–0.912, P = 0.018).

DISCUSSION:

This study provided evidence for a link between female sex hormone exposure, especially estrogen, and IBD. Further investigations are needed to explore the causal effect of estrogen on IBD activity and the underlying mechanism of estrogen in IBD.
Towards a residential socio-physical framework: positioning subjective experiences in physical environments
Authors: Lambrix Sander , Petermans Ann , Smetcoren An-Sofie , Vanrie Jan
Published: July 2024

We spend most of our time in and around buildings. The architectural design of the environment inherently affects our everyday subjective experiences. We refer to this connection between the physical environment and our experiences as the ‘socio-physical environment’. The residential environment, which is studied by different disciplines, ranging from design/spatial disciplines to social sciences, is fundamental in this regard. However, as they all approach the topic from different perspectives, there exists a need for a common language within this multidisciplinary research field. By analysing three commonly used frameworks in architecture and evaluating their constituent parts, we propose a new framework that is specifically tailored to the residential environment. Its typological categories are organised around an individual resident’s experiences and therefore include life environment, neighbourhood, dwelling, tectonics and personal stuff. The goal of the framework is to guide empirical or theoretical research on individuals’ housing experiences and to allow research on dwelling experiences to be explicitly rooted in their physical context and scale.
Grandezas incomensuráveis e números irracionais
Authors: Silva Fabrício Oliveira , Ribeiro Márcio Roberto Rocha
Published: July 2024

Alguns livros de história da matemática, assentam que a descoberta de grandezas incomensuráveis, por volta do século V, Antes da Era Comum, esteve seguida de uma crise de fundamentação lógica nas estruturas da matemática. Notamos, a partir de algumas publicações e artigos, que essa crise de fundamentos talvez tenha sido um equívoco ou má interpretação dos escritos da antiguidade, pois, caso tenha ocorrido, ela não alterou os rumos das descobertas gregas. A solução proposta por Eudoxo decorre da evolução dos estudos que estavam em curso e, dois milênios depois, serviu como base para a construção dos cortes de Dedekind, basilar à concepção do conceito rigoroso de números reais (racionais e irracionais). Esse trabalho de pesquisa bibliográfica tem o intuito de revisitar e retomar, a partir do caráter histórico matemático, as principais ideias que despontaram com o surgimento das grandezas incomensuráveis e suas particularidades, desde a antiguidade grega, passando por sua consumação que culminou na ideia formal de números irracionais até chegarmos à atualidade. Como contribuição principal desse trabalho, destacamos a apresentação de novas perspectivas e enfoques do tema em voga a partir de olhares lançados ao passado por intermédio dos fatos históricos, possibilitando compreender como se deram os encadeamentos de ideias no percurso temporal, contribuindo com a ampliação da compreensão dos objetos e conceitos matemáticos na atualidade.
Relações entre criação de jogos digitais e a aprendizagem matemática na educação
Authors: Mesquita Taynara Derci Babugem , Souza Crhistiane da Fonseca , Barbosa Fernando da Costa
Published: July 2024

Esta pesquisa investiga a interação de alunos do Ensino Fundamental com o recurso tecnológico e educacional Scratch, com o objetivo de instruí-los sobre programação em bloco e explorar conhecimentos matemáticos. O estudo é conduzido por meio de uma abordagem qualitativa, utilizando o método de estudo de caso etnográfico. Os participantes são oito alunos do 6º ano de uma escola pública em Catalão-GO, e o projeto é realizado no Laboratório de Informática da escola, durante o contraturno, no ano de 2019. Os alunos criaram jogos digitais como forma de se familiarizarem com a tecnologia e a linguagem computacional, promovendo o desenvolvimento de habilidades cognitivas e criativas. O objetivo principal da pesquisa é responder à pergunta: “Quais são as contribuições do Scratch para o ensino e aprendizagem de Matemática no Ensino Fundamental?”. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas, observações e registros fotográficos das atividades dos alunos, sendo analisados em dois eixos: “Aprendendo sobre e com o Scratch” e “Produzindo com o Scratch”. Os resultados revelam que os participantes adquiriram conceitos matemáticos e noções básicas de programação, destacando-se a Lógica Computacional, o Plano Cartesiano e as Frações como áreas de destaque.
O conceito de perejivanie na Teoria Histórico-Cultural de L. S. Vigotski
Authors: Veiga Ana Lucia Werneck
Published: July 2024

O texto que se apresenta traz um recorte de pesquisa maior intitulada "Cartografando o conceito de Perejivanie nas produções acadêmicas brasileiras", sendo desenvolvida junto ao Grupo de Estudos e Pesquisas em Geografia da Infância – GRUPEGI/CNPQ, pelo Programa de Pós-graduação em Educação da Universidade Federal Fluminense, sob a coordenação do Prof. Dr. Jader Janer Moreira Lopes. Tal recorte é uma incursão na literatura relacionada à Teoria Histórico-cultural, mais especificamente quanto ao conceito de “vivência” (em russo perejivanie), termo ressignificado pelas novas traduções de alguns textos do bielorusso Lev Semionovich Vigotski. Algumas produções que marcaram o estudo desse conceito foram recuperadas e analisadas, o objetivo foi verificar a que outros conceitos o termo “vivência” tem sido relacionado de modo a configurar seu desenvolvimento histórico, notadamente, no contexto brasileiro. Leituras, releituras, sínteses e organização dos dados em pesquisa bibliográfica permitiram a apresentação do tema nas seguintes partes: 1) palavras introdutórias acerca de obras brasileiras, 2) as duas traduções para a Quarta Aula, de L. S. Vigotski, que compõem as Sete Aulas proferidas pelo autor ao final da vida e onde menciona diretamente o conceito de “vivência”, 3) leis estipuladas pelo próprio Vigotski em sua teoria e método e 4) as noções de “vivência” defendidas por autores russos contemporâneos. Tal levantamento evidenciou que o conceito vem sofrendo transformações, ampliando o entendimento acerca da criança em desenvolvimento e com potencialidades de (re)formulação dos currículos de formação inicial e continuada de professores.
Las características del humanismo graciano
Authors: Elías Carlos Tomás
Published: July 2024

El humanismo, notable corriente de pensamiento que cobró gran fuerza durante el Renacimiento, supuso un importante cambio en las consideraciones teórico-filosóficas de los intelectuales de diversos ámbitos. No obstante, su expansión resultó tanto intermitente como desigual. No se presentó de la misma manera en todos los lugares, en todos los tiempos ni con todos los pensadores. Así, hubo reflexiones con ideas fuertemente esencialistas que no denotaron un cambio profundo en comparación con las consideraciones medievales, pero también hubo otras que supusieron un vehemente intento por ir más allá de aquel paradigma. En vistas de aquello, este trabajo pretende mostrar las características distintivas de un humanismo como el de Baltasar Gracián, un jesuita español del siglo XVII que se desempeñó como literato y filósofo. Alguien que, en un lugar que apostaba por la ortodoxia católica, puso como centro de sus consideraciones una compleja y aguda reflexión en apariencia profana y secular acerca de cómo era y debía ser el ser humano.
La influencia del krausismo en la química española del siglo XIX
Authors: Mora Casanova Jordi
Published: July 2024

La influencia que tuvo el sistema filosófico de Krause en la España de la segunda mitad del s. XIX, a través de la obra de Ahrens, es indiscutible. Sin embargo, se ha estudiado poco la huella que dejó el krausismo en la ciencia española, especialmente en los debates sobre la constitución de la materia que caracterizaron a la química de final de siglo. Este artículo expone cómo algunos conceptos claves en la filosofía krausiana, como el panenteísmo o el organicismo, permitieron discutir sobre materia, fuerza o energía en términos que solo pueden entenderse correctamente bajo el prisma del krausismo.
Nostalgia as a weapon … … and also a way to bring back the dream
Authors: Sitas Ari ,   University of Cape Town
Published: July 2024

Instead of focusing on the elections and the implications of the polling outcome, ARI SITAS suggests we channel our pre-occupation with the past and our recent spate of commemorations of political and economic milestones into revisiting the ‘dream’ and restoring a commitment to hope. The last two years have been all about political nostalgias in South Africa. They were marked by serious commemorative events that emphasised the “possible” that never was: 50 years since the Durban strikes, the spontaneous upsurge there of a black working-class; 40 years since the launch of the United Democratic Front (UDF), the unprecedented popular-democratic movement that challenged apartheid to its core. That was 2023.
Unemployment, poverty and inequality in SA as seen through a feminist political-economy lens
Authors: Sibeko Sbusisiwe ,   South African Parliamentary Budget Office
Published: July 2024

Author information: Sbusisiwe Sibeko is an economist and researcher. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Duke University and a Masters in the Political Economy of Development from SOAS, University of London. She has worked at the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ), where her research focus was macroeconomic policy and was the co-Chair of the Budget Justice Coalition (BJC). She considers herself a feminist political economist in training and is determined to be a part of unwinding structural injustice. Background: Much social reproduction is based in households, with women at the forefront, yet this work is still delegated to the periphery of political-economic policy discussions. In this article Sbusisiwe Sibeko provides a feminist political-economic perspective to investigate how women’s bodies and labour might be conceptualised as the ‘last colony’ of accumulation.
The idea of a ‘social protection floor’ for South Africa Developing an approach for social justice and inclusion
Authors: Taylor Viviene ,   Institute for African Alternatives (IFAA)
Published: July 2024

South Africa leads the developing world in building a social protection system. A total of 28 million people — 45% of the population — currently receive a grant, including the nine million who get the Social Relief of Distress grant which has been extended every year since Covid. VIVIENE TAYLOR outlines how the idea of a ‘social protection floor’ developed over the 30 years of democracy and the shortcomings that still delay its full implementation. Over the last 30 years South Africa has established the basis for elements of a “social protection floor”, which should assist even the poorest households to attain a decent standard of living. Achieving a social protection floor is an essential requirement because of historical, political and constitutional imperatives.
As we celebrate, we indict A personal reflection on 30 years of democracy by a rank-and-file activist
Authors: Mati Shepi ,   Rhodes University
Published: July 2024

This is a personal reflection of a rank-and-file activist on 30 years of democracy in South Africa. Whilst it celebrates the achievements of democracy, it seeks to indict us all for the crime of ukuxhaphaza nokunyela abantu baseMzantsi Afrika, (abusing and trampling on the dignity of the people of South Africa). SHEPI MATI explores how the fight for democracy impacted on our emotions, our hearts and our experience of living under formal democracy. This year marks 30 years of democracy in South Africa. April 2024 was 360 months since all South Africans – irrespective of colour, class, gender or creed – cast their votes to choose their public representatives for the first time. If we were to count this in days, it amounts to 10,958 days. I still remember the excitement and the buzz in the long snaking queue to cast our votes on that historic Wednesday at the Salt River Town Hall in Cape Town. I seek to trace my own personal journey as a young person belonging to a generation who, in the words of Franz Fanon, took up the challenge to define their mission and sought to fulfil it.