bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Traumatic Stress During Armed Conflict and Associated Siege: Experiences of Healthcare Workers and Teachers in Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Zerihun Zenawi , Mulugeta Afework , Kidane Samuel , Teklu Alula 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Healthcare and education professionals living and working in conflict settings develop psychological injuries that can significantly impact their life and work. However, little is known about the potential impact of armed conflict and related siege on the psychological injuries of healthcare workers and schoolteachers in Tigray, Ethiopia. This study examined the impact of war and related siege on psychological, mental, and physical trauma among healthcare workers and schoolteachers from conflict-affected communities in Tigray, Ethiopia.
Method
This study was conducted in four purposively selected zones of Tigray. A cross-sectional study design was employed to determine the level of burnout, compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma and mental health status among health professionals and teachers during the war and related siege in Tigray. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select the study units. The proportional allocation technique was used to distribute the total sample size of each sector (health and education). Similar approaches were used to allocate the sample size to the health facilities and schools from each zone. A total of 67 health facilities, including 14 health posts, 25 health centers, 16 primary hospitals, 9 secondary hospitals and 3 tertiary hospitals, were included. Similarly, a random sample of 832 healthcare professionals and 840 schoolteachers was used. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the frequencies and percentages, and bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess the associations between the variables.
Results
Healthcare workers and schoolteachers had high levels of anxiety (64.8% and 77.5%, respectively), depression (74.2% and 84.8%, respectively), burnout (44.3% and 42.9%, respectively), compassion fatigue (56.3% and 47.7%, respectively) and vicarious trauma (88.4% and 90.8%, respectively). Compared with healthcare workers, education workers (61.8%) had a remarkably greater prevalence of trauma-associated sleep disorders (42.2%). The experience of providing services to ill or injured clients is believed to have led to serious mental health outcomes.
Conclusion
The healthcare and education sectors need to institute trauma-informed care and provide training as part of continuous professional development and integrated refresher training to alleviate mental health challenges and enhance service quality.
Direct Aortic TAVI via Anterior Right Mini-Thoracotomy Using 32 mm Myval for Pure Aortic Regurgitation
Authors: Aljanadi Firas , Manoharan Ganesh , McNiece Andrew , Jeganathan Reuben 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Aortic regurgitation with dilated annulus presents a challenge for conventional transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures.
Case presentation: In this unique case, we report an 84 year old frail patient with a history of breathlessness found to have severe aortic regurgitation and moderately impaired left ventricular systolic function. The patient underwent a successful TAVI procedure using the XL-Myval 32 mm transcatheter heart valve (THV) via an anterior right mini-thoracotomy with a direct aortic approach. Remarkably, the patient showed favourable post-procedural progress. Conclusions: This first in human case highlights the efficacy and potential of applying innovative approaches, such as the new sizes of Myval THV and direct aortic access via anterior right mini thoracotomy, in addressing challenging anatomical variations in TAVI procedures with good outcome.
Evaluation of the knowledge management maturity at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and solutions to its improvement
Authors: Nasabi Narjes Alsadat , Bordbar Najmeh 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Knowledge is an important factor in improving and developing services and managing this intangible asset has received a lot of attention. this study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the maturity of knowledge management and providing solutions for its enhancement at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS).
Methods: This quantitative-qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022. 210 experts of knowledge management completed the standard evaluation tool for knowledge management maturity. Semi-structured interviews were done with ten managers. Descriptive statistics in Excel 2013 were used to analyze the quantitative data; framework analysis was also used for qualitative data analysis.
Results: The maturity of knowledge management was found to be at level 3 (expansion) with a score of 135.2. The highest and lowest scores were related to the dimensions of technology (21.6) and leadership of knowledge management (18.44), respectively. The solutions for collaborative management, cultural development, implementation of motivational system, regulations and executive guidelines in the leadership dimension, training and empowerment of managers and employees, merit-based selection and appointment, quantitative and qualitative development of information technology infrastructure in the technology dimension, and identification, creation, storage, sharing and use of knowledge processes in the process dimension were identified.
Conclusions: The solutions presented in this study can be used to organize the stages of maturity, planning and policymaking in the field of knowledge management.
The ratio of SRSF1-IS1/IS2 mRNA is a marker of clinical prognosis in pediatric B-ALL and SRSF1 isoforms differentially regulate apoptosis and proliferation on leukemic cells
Authors: Zhang Xixi , Li Jing , He Hongbo , Mei Mei , Zhang Ruidong , Gao Chao , Wu Ying , Zhang Yuanyuan , Lin Wei , Yu Jiaole , Fan Jia , Huang Pengli , Zheng Xueling , Wang Jincheng , Wang Linya , Bao Shilai , Zheng Huyong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background Serine/Arginine Splicing Factor 1 (SRSF1) is a prototypical splicing factor, which plays an important role in constitutive splicing and alternative splicing (AS). SRSF1 can be highly expressed and act as a key oncogene in several malignant solid tumors. SRSF1 is expressed as two isoforms, including isoform 1 (full-length) and isoform 2 (short), the latter lacking the C-terminal RS domain. The role of both isoforms in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is not completely understood.
Methods In this study, we detected the mRNA expression of SRSF1 isoform 1 and isoform 2 in bone marrow samples from newly diagnosed (ND) pediatric B cell acute
lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) patients and non-hematologic malignancy (immune thrombocytopenia patients, ITP) by qRT-PCR. Functional analysis of SRSF1 isoform 1 and isoform 2 in Nalm-6 cell was conducted in vitro.
ResultsHigher mRNA level of isoform 1 was associated with shortened 5-year EFS and OS. Lower mRNA level of isoform 2 was associated with shortened 5-year EFS. Simultaneously we first identified the ratio of isoform 1/isoform 2 (IS1/IS2) was negatively associated with 5-year overall survival (OS) and 5-year event-free survival (EFS). Further, we found that human leukemia cell lines showed significantly higher levels of SRSF1 isoform 1 protein and lower levels of SRSF1 isoform 2 protein comparing with normal B cells. SRSF1 isoform 1 can promote leukemia cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis, but not by SRSF1 isoform 2 in vitro.
Conclusions Our observations demonstrate distinct roles for SRSF1 isoforms in pediatric B-ALL. The ratio of SRSF1-IS1/IS2 mRNA maybe as a marker of clinical prognosis in pediatric B-ALL.
Research on therapeutic clinical trials including immunotherapy in Triple- negative Breast cancer: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Xu Qi , Feng Xiaoyu , Qin Siyuan , Hong Yu , Cui Rui , Liang Jia , Xiao Zhuya , Li Yuan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background Breast cancer is a common malignancy worldwide. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a prevalent subtype of breast cancer that has poorer histological characteristics and a greater incidence of both local and distant metastases.
Methods We downloaded publications on clinical trials of TNBC treatment from 1997 to 2024 and performed a bibliometric analysis using Bibliometrix in R and VOSviewer in order to demonstrate the prospects, highlights, and trends of TNBC treatment options.
Results There were 1907 publications in all, most of which were from China, Italy, and the United States. The number of annual publications has increased dramatically since 2010. The focus of TNBC clinical trial research has shifted from understanding the biology, such as breast cancer subtyping and genotyping, to novel therapeutic approaches. The major advancement in clinical trials is the switch from late-stage palliative treatment to early preoperative neoadjuvant therapy, as more TNBC cases are discovered at an early stage. Immunotherapy is also highlighted with additional alternatives for advanced or metastasized TNBC, such as targeted inhibitors with unusual mutation rates and antibody drug conjugates (ADC).
Conclusions This investigation made it apparent how immunotherapy has recently made major advancements in TNBC treatment plans and how ADCs, or targeted therapies, are currently popular for TNBC. By identifying significant papers, comprehending trending topics, and collaborating across multiple disciplines, this study may accelerate research on TNBC therapy options.
Work Absence and Productivity Loss of Patients Undergoing a Trial of Spontaneous Passage for Ureteral Stones
Authors: Berger Ian , Medairos Robert , Margolin Ezra , Antonelli Jodi , Lipkin Michael E. , Scales Charles D. , Kaye Deborah R. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Patients with ureteral stones are often managed with a spontaneous trial of passage. While cost effective, the current literature has not examined the effects of a trial of passage on patients’ work productivity. In this study, we aim to characterize work absence and productivity losses in a cohort of patients undergoing a trial of passage for ureteral stones.
Materials and Methods
Actively employed patients aged 18 to 64 and discharged from Duke emergency departments without surgical intervention for ureteral stones ≤ 10mm were contacted by phone four weeks after their presentation. Participants completed the Institute for Medical Technology Assessment Productivity Cost Questionnaire which assesses three domains: absenteeism — missed work; presenteeism —productivity when returning to work; and unpaid work — assistance with household work. Linear regression associated demographic and stone factors with productivity losses.
Results
109 patients completed the survey. In total, 67% of patients missed work, 46% had decreased productivity when returning to work, and 55% required assistance with unpaid work. 59% of patients with stones ≤ 5mm missed work versus 84% with stones > 5mm (p = 0.009). African American race (coefficient 23.68, 95% confidence interval 2.24–45.11, p = 0.031), first-time stone formers (coefficient 20.28, 95% confidence interval 2.50-38.07, p = 0.026), and patients with stones > 5mm (coefficient 25.34, 95% CI 5.25–45.44, p = 0.014) were associated with increased productivity losses.
Conclusions
The majority of patients miss work while undergoing a trial of passage and many have decreased productivity when returning to work. This information may help counsel patients in emergency departments, especially first-time stone formers, and prevent return visits.
Glucose blood levels relationship with immunoinflammatory markers in acute ischemic stroke: metabolic, inflammatory and genetic signatures of ischemic stroke and its recurrence
Authors: Pacinella Gaetano , Ciaccio Anna Maria , Casuccio Alessandra , Daidone Mario , Pecoraro Rosaria , Bona Danilo , Cuore Alssandro Del , Puleo Maria Grazia , Raimondo Domenico , Chiara Tiziana , Miceli Giuseppe , Corte Vittoriano Della , Arnao Valentina , Tuttolomondo Antonino 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background. Some genetic polymorphisms are associated with the risk of stroke, although the individual contribution of such polymorphisms is considered modest
Aims. To evaluate the frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines and coagulation factors in stroke patients, the relationships between the serum levels of the cytokines analyzed, and their relationship with stroke subtypes and prognosis in terms of event recurrence at follow-up.
Material and Methods. A retrospective, cross-sectional, observational, analytical, case-control study. Blood samples were collected within 72 hours of the onset of signs/symptoms of ischaemic stroke. We performed genetic analysis to evaluate various genetic polymorphisms and analyzed cytokine levels at admission.
Results. A total of 624 subjects were enrolled: 429 patients with ischaemic stroke and 195 control subjects without ischaemic stroke. Patients with CEI subtype showed significantly higher levels of all the cytokines analyzed, namely, IL-10, TNF-alpha, and IL-6. Logistic regression analysis revealed that higher TNF-α (alpha), IL-6, and IL-1 β (beta) levels were significantly associated with the LAAS and CEI subtypes. In contrast, TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with recurrent stroke at follow-up than in patients who did not have an event during follow-up.
Of the three polymorphisms in the gene encoding PTSG2, the haplotypes rs6275 and rs20417 showed a different distribution between patients and controls.
Discussion. The reported association between ischaemic stroke and immunoinflammatory variables agrees with previously reported associations between some proinflammatory and prothrombotic polymorphisms and the risk of ischaemic stroke.
Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L14 (MRPL14) significantly correlated with decreased risk of endometrioid endometrial cancer: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lou Yaochen , Wu Wei , Jiang Feng , Guan Jun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The incidence of endometrial cancer (EC)is constantly rising, but its mortality has not been improved in decades. Understanding the molecular mechanism of EC may improve the early diagnosis and develop more targeted therapies. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been currently reported to impact the pathogenesis of various cancers. Thus, this study investigated whether mitochondrial proteins contributed to the development of EC.
Methods
Using meta-analyses data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study on 63 mitochondrial proteins and endometrioid EC (EEC). Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, weighted mode, simple mode, and MR-Egger regression approaches were applied. The outcome measure consisted of a GWAS dataset for EEC, comprising a total of 54,884 individuals (8,758 cases and 46,126 controls).
Results
Of 63 mitochondrial proteins, mitochondrial ribosomal protein L14 (MRPL14) presented a causal association with the decreased susceptibility to EEC by the IVW analysis (MRPL14; odds ratio [OR] = 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.77–0.99, p = 0.039), although neither weighted median method nor MR-Egger regression achieved the same significance. Through Cochran's Q test and visual inspection via funnel plot, the assessment of heterogeneity found no evidence of heterogeneity or asymmetry in our findings, suggesting the absence of directional pleiotropy.
Conclusion
This MR study found MRPL14 was causally correlated with decreased risk of EEC, implying a novel perspective to understand the mechanism of this malignancy. Further validation is warranted to clarify the effect of MPRL14 in endometrial disorders.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Ferrochrome Ash Addition and Chemical Binders in Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Vural Tuğçe , Aydın Ferhat 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Portland Cement, widely used in construction, has high energy consumption and CO2 emissions during production. Seeking eco-friendly alternatives, geopolymers offer high strength, heat resistance, eco-friendliness, and acid durability. This study used waste ferrochrome ash from Elazıg Eti Krom Factory as a pozzolan, activating it with NaOH and SiO2Na2O. It aimed to assess ferrochrome ash's use in geopolymer concrete for reduced CO2 emissions and waste valorization. Geopolymer concrete blended ferrochrome ash into blast furnace slag and silica fume-based mixes, investigating hardened properties. Experiments with determined parameters—curing conditions, activator content, and SS/SH ratio—maintained consistently in geopolymer concrete. Extensive analysis of mechanical properties determined the optimal activator proportions as a SS/SH ratio of 3 with a NaOH molarity of 14. The top-performing mixture achieved an average compressive strength of 29.51 MPa following heat curing, underscoring the potential of ferrochrome ash as an effective additive in geopolymers, particularly at 60°C curing temperatures.
Design and implementation of a computer Vision-based Object Tracking Robot using an Uncalibrated Camera
Authors: Nitu Nitish , Barman Kalyaanjee , Kumar Amit 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Object detection and tracking are challenging tasks in computer vision applications, such as autonomous robot navigation, vehicle navigation, human-computer interaction, augmented reality and defence surveillance systems. Detecting and tracking an object, especially for humans and vehicles, is a challenging research topic in computer vision. This paper represents an autonomous object-tracking robot using a computer vision object detection and tracking algorithm with a novel robot controller. The speeded-up-robust-feature (SURF) based object detection technique has been employed for object detection, and Kanade-Lucas-Tomasi (KLT) has been used for object tracking. The stereo vision-based depth measurement technique measures objects' depth. Based on the object's location in 3D space, the robot controller navigated the robot to track the object. For this purpose, the robot controller is designed with Arduino and L293D motor driver IC. The robot's speed was controlled using a pulse width modulation (PWM) speed control algorithm. The simulated results show that the proposed techniques efficiently track objects in 3-D space.
Tunable Perfect Absorption of Microwave Radiation via Dielectric Slabs in Irregular Arrangements: A Non-Hermitian Approach
Authors: Franco-Villafañe John , Domínguez-Rocha Victor , Fernández-Marín Antonio , Flores-Castro Carlos , Ramírez-Hintze Eduardo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study introduces a novel passive approach for achieving tunable perfect absorption of microwave radiation, employing non-Hermitian physics to manipulate electromagnetic waves without conductive elements. By utilizing common dielectric slabs in irregular configurations within a rectangular waveguide, we can completely absorb electromagnetic energy, distinctively retaining it within the electromagnetic field instead of converting it into heat. This method contrasts with traditional metamaterials that rely on conductive components to absorb energy. Employing the transfer matrix method and Sequential Quadratic Programming for optimization, our research identifies specific non-uniform placements of FR4 slabs that maximize absorption within targeted microwave bands. Experimental validation, executed in a standard WR90 waveguide connected to a vector network analyzer, confirms the theoretical and finite element simulation results, underscoring the effectiveness of our passive strategy. This work advances our understanding of non-Hermitian systems in electromagnetic wave control and offers significant potential for applications in reducing electromagnetic pollution and enhancing secure communications, all while aligning with ecological preservation objectives.
Patient and Clinician Experiences with the Implementation of Telemedicine and Related Adaptations in Office-Based Buprenorphine Treatment During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Davoust Melissa , Bazzi Angela R. , Blakemore Samantha , Blodgett Juliana , Cheng Anna , Fielman Sarah , Magane Kara M. , Theisen Jacqui , Saitz Richard , Ventura Alicia S. , Weinstein Zoe M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: Deaths from opioid overdose have increased dramatically in the past decade, representing an epidemic in the United States. For individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD), agonist medications such as methadone and buprenorphine reduce opioid-related morbidity and mortality. Historically, the provision of buprenorphine treatment in office-based settings has relied on frequent in-person contact, likely influencing patients’ access to and retention in care. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providers of office-based buprenorphine treatment rapidly adapted their care processes, increasingly relying on telemedicine visits. To date, relatively few prior studies have combined patient and clinician perspectives to examine the implementation of telemedicine and related care adaptations, particularly in safety-net settings.
Methods: Qualitative methods were used to explore clinician and patient experiences with telemedicine in an office-based buprenorphine treatment clinic affiliated with an urban safety-net hospital. From this clinic, we interviewed 25 patients and 16 clinicians (including prescribers and non-prescribers) to understand how telemedicine impacted treatment quality and engagement in care, as well as preferences for using telemedicine moving forward.
Results: Five themes regarding the implementation of telemedicine and other COVID-19-related care adaptations arose from patient and clinician perspectives: 1) telemedicine integration precipitated openness to more flexibility in care practices, 2) concerns regarding telemedicine-related adaptations centered around safety and accountability, 3) telemedicine encounters required rapport and trust between patients and clinicians to facilitate open communication, 4) safety-net patient populations experienced unique challenges when using telemedicine, particularly in terms of the technology required and the need for privacy, and 5) there is an important role for telemedicine in office-based buprenorphine treatment moving forward, primarily through its use in hybrid models of care.
Conclusions: Telemedicine implementation within office-based buprenorphine treatment has the potential to improve patients’ engagement in care; however, our findings emphasize the need for tailored approaches to implementing telemedicine in office-based buprenorphine treatment, particularly within safety-net settings. Overall, this study supports the maintenance of changes to policy and practice that facilitate the use of telemedicine in office-based buprenorphine treatment beyond the COVID-19 public health emergency.