bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Postural misalignments in school students: comparisons between gender, school cycles and body composition
Authors: Gouveia João Pedro , Coelho Eduarda , Forte Pedro 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The prevalence of postural misalignments in children and young people is markedly increasing and schools can play a leading role in its early detection. This study aimed to carry out a postural assessment of the spine and shoulder and pelvic girdles in 162 school students (82 males and 80 females), aged between 10 and 15 years, comparing, afterwards, these postural misalignments between gender, schooling cycles and body composition. A symmetrograph was used to carry out the postural assessment by visual scan analysis and the Adams Test. All subjects revealed a high percentage of postural misalignments. The highest prevalence was observed in the posterior view of the frontal plane in the right shoulder elevation, dorsal and cervical scoliosis, whereas, in the right view of the sagittal plane forward head posture, protracted shoulders and dorsal hyperkyphosis were the most observed. The main findings in the comparison between gender were that males revealed significantly higher levels of shoulder protrusion (X2 = 13.508; p = 0.001), dorsal hyperkyphosis (X2 = 10.080; p = 0.006) and positive Adams test (X2 = 9.481; p = 0.009). Between schooling cycles, 3rd cycle students revealed significantly higher levels of forward head posture (X2 = 10.603; p = 0.001), dorsal hyperkyphosis (X2 = 8.314; p = 0.016) and lumbar scoliosis (X2 = 7.752; p = 0.005), while those in the 2nd showed greater pelvic anteversion (X2 = 20.109; p < 0.001). Students outside the body mass index (BMI) healthy zone demonstrated significantly higher levels of forward head posture (X2 = 6.821; p = 0.033), dorsal hyperkyphosis (X2 = 14,727; p = 0.005) and pelvic anteversion (X2 = 10.156; p = 0.038), the latter being also significantly evidenced by those outside the body fat percentage (BF%) healthy zone (X2 = 12.371; p = 0.015). A wide variety of postural misalignments was found in both genders, with a higher prevalence in boys. There was a tendency for misalignment’s prevalence increase with the schooling cycles progression, as well as the highest levels of obesity seem to be related with their highest prevalence. These results strongly emphasize the need and the importance of postural assessment in physical education (PE) classes to determine postural misalignments among school students.
Characterization of Fatigue Behavior of 3D Printed Pneumatic Fluidic Elastomer Actuators
Authors: Torzini Lorenzo , Puggelli Luca , Volpe Yary , Governi Lapo , buonamici francesco 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Soft robots have gained significant interest over the past two decades due to their high flexibility and adaptability to various working conditions. Recent advances in engineering and innovative materials have enabled the design and production of sophisticated soft robotic systems with enhanced capabilities. Additive manufacturing has accelerated the development of soft actuators, unlocking complex kinematics, improving their effectiveness and allowing the production of task-specific actuators. 3D printed soft actuators can gain advantage of the fabricability of complex geometries to guarantee improved mobility and grasping abilities. However, challenges remain in investigating the durability of such devices. Limits of most recent advanced manufacturing methods and materials, with this respect, are still to be fully explored.In this work, bellow-type pneumatic soft actuators fabricated through Fused Filament Fabrication in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are tested to evaluate their fatigue behaviour. Silicone rubber casted actuators are included to provide a point of reference. The actuators integrated resistive flex sensors to monitor bending motion. Fatigue tests were performed with cycles of inflation and deflation until failure. Results showed that 3D printed TPU actuators are capable of whitstanding a significant amount of cycles before failure, ultimately being comparable with alternative fabrication technologies. Overall, this study proves the potential of the Fused Filament Fabrication process for the fabrication of durable, long-lasting pneumatic soft actuators.
Effective Method of Pedicle Screw Fixation in Patients with Neurologically Intact Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures: A Systematic Review of Studies Published Over the Last 20 Years
Authors: Grin Andrey , Karanadze Vasiliy , Kordonskiy Anton , Talypov Aleksandr , Lvov Ivan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Objective: To conduct a systematic review of studies focusing on various PSF methods for neurologically intact burst fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine (TLFS) and identify the most effective and safe approach among them.
Methods. Systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The study was registered in the PROSPERO (№ CRD42024531093). The inclusion criteria for articles in the systematic review were as follows: 1) publication date between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2023; 2) availability of the full-text version of the article in English; 3) fracture type A3 or A4 according to the AOSpine classification, or types A, B, or C burst fractures according to the F. Denis classification, or direct indication by the author of the presence of a "burst" fracture without its classification; 4) absence of neurological deficit; 5) patient age over 18 years; 6) description of treatment outcomes or complications; 7) follow-up period of 12 months for patient samples.
Results. In total, the 70 articles presented treatment results for 122 groups of patients were included. Statistical analysis demonstrated the advantages of short-segment fixation in terms of operation duration and intraoperative blood loss (p = 0.001 and < 0.001, respectively). It was also found that the frequency of deep infection was significantly higher with extensive fusion compared to other PSF methods (p = 0.043). Percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (PSF) was performed in patients with lower body compression rate and kyphotic deformity values (p = 0.043), had less potential for their correction (p = 0.004), but significantly reduced blood loss (p = 0.011), operation duration (p < 0.0001), and hospitalization period (p < 0.0001). Statistical analysis did not reveal significant advantages of using additional intermediate screws in patients undergoing short-segment PSF.
Conclusions. The optimal surgical treatment method for neurologically intact thoracolumbar burst fractures is short-segment, 4-screw pedicle screw fixation. The use of posterior lateral fusion in this context may increase the deep infection rate without reducing the frequency of implant-related complications or affecting long-term treatment outcomes. Percutaneous approach is the preferred technique; however, in patients with severe kyphotic deformities, its lower reduction capabilities should be considered during surgical planning. The application of intermediate screws in patients with neurologically intact thoracolumbar burst fractures did not demonstrate any significant advantages. Removal of the fixation system did not lead to a significant reduction in implant-related complications or improvement in quality of life.
Deficient DNA mismatch repair status reveals good prognosis for non-metastatic signet ring cell (SRC) subpopulation
Authors: Chen Yongjiu , Li Yingjie , Sun Tingting , Ji Dengbo , Jia Jinying , Hu Fangjie , Pei Junpeng , Wang Lin , Wu Aiwen 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose
As a rare subpopulation of colorectal cancer (CRC), signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) has poor prognosis. The prognostic role of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) has been seldom studied. Thus, to analyze the effect of MMR status on survival outcomes in colorectal SRCC patients, we conducted this retrospective study.
Method
DNA mismatch repair status was performed on 114 patients via IHC. Prognostic clinicopathologic parameters of deficient or proficient DNA mismatch repair status were compared by the chi-squared test. Survival outcomes (OS, DFS) were measured via the Kaplan-Meier LIFETEST and the log-rank test. The multivariate survival analysis was evaluated by the Cox proportional-hazards regression model, and the hazard ratio (HR) with 95% CI was provided.
Results
Among 7343 colorectal cancer patients from 2009 to 2020, there were 176 patients with SRCC, nearly one quarter (23.7%, 27/114) harbored dMMR. Besides, dMMR SRCC patients are more often located in the rectum (51.1%). No difference was found for metastatic disease while dMMR had relatively good prognosis for non-metastatic with a median follow-up of 71.9 months (13.9 to 155). The overall 3- and 5-year OS were 42.1% and 32.1%, respectively, while the 3- and 5-year DFS were 43.0% and 32.9%, respectively. Moreover, the multivariate survival analysis via Cox proportional-hazards model revealed MMR status was an independent prognostic for colorectal SRCC.
Conclusion
Nearly one quarter patients harbored dMMR and relatively better survival outcomes than pMMR in this colorectal SRCC cohort. Early identification of this subgroup may be of importance for the survival of SRCC patients.
The impact of Bacillus thuringiensis var israelensis (Bti) larvicide sprayed using drones for bio-control of malaria vectors in rice fields of Kigali Sub-Urban, Rwanda
Authors: Munyakanage Dunia , Niyituma Elias , Mutabazi Alphonse , Misago Xavier , Musanabaganwa Clarisse , Remera Eric , Rutayisire² Eric , Mamy² Ingabire Muziga , Majambere Silas , Mbituyumuremyi Aimable , Ngugi Mathew Piero , Kokwaro Elizabeth , Hakizimana Emmanuel , Muvunyi Claude Mambo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The core vector control tools used to prevent malaria infection are currently long-lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs), and the indoor residual spraying (IRS). These indoor methods are threatened by insecticide resistance and behavioral adaptation by malaria vectors. Thus, for effective interruption of malaria transmission, there is a need to experiment further vector control interventions and technologies to address the above vector control challenges. Larviciding using drones-based technologies were experimented as innovative tools that could supplement existing indoor base interventions to control malaria.
Methods
A non-randomized larviciding trial with control was carried out in irrigated rice fields, in sub-urban of Kigali City, Rwanda. The potential mosquito larval habitats in study sites were prior mapped and subsequently sprayed using multirotor drones. The application of Bti (Vectobac® WDG) followed by the entomological surveys were performed every two weeks for ten months’ period. The sampling of mosquito larvae used the dipping method while adult mosquitoes were collected using CDC miniature light traps (CDC-LT) and pyrethrum spraying collection (PSC) methods, respectively. The malaria cases were routinely collected through community health workers in contingent villages to the study sites.
Results
The abundance of total mosquito larvae, Anopheles-specific larvae and pupae declined by 68.1%, 74.6% and 99.6% respectively. The larval density was reduced by 93.3% for total larvae, 95.3% for the Anopheleslarvae and 61.9% for pupae. The total adult mosquitoes and An. gambiae s.l collected using CDC-Light trap declined by 60.6% and 80% respectively. Malaria incidence also declined significantly between intervention and control sites (U=20, z=-2.268, p=0.023)
Conclusions
The larviciding using drone technology implemented in Rwanda demonstrated a substantial reduction in abundance and density of mosquito larvae and, concomitant decline in adult mosquito populations and malaria incidence in contingent villages to the treatment sites. The impact of PSC method on adult mosquitoes was not significant on adult culicines spp. The scaling up of larval source management (LSM) has to be integrated in malaria programs in targeted areas of malaria transmission in order to enhance the gains in malaria control.
Mental Health and Resilience of University Students in the United Arab Emirates: A Study on Migrant Students at RAK Medical and Health Sciences University
Authors: Salgado Arnel Bañaga , Salgado Jan Joseph Rainer Christorey Maria , Mathew Sandra Maria , Razak Aqsa Abdul , Hussain Shimna , Fatima Wafeeqa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the mental health resilience of migrant students enrolled at RAK Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The research analyzed the current status of mental health resilience among the students, identified the key factors contributing to mental health issues, explored the role of resilience in mitigating these challenges, and formulated evidence-based recommendations. These recommendations, with their practical implications, aim to enhance mental health and resilience, offering a hopeful outlook for the future and empowering the stakeholders to take effective actions. The researchers collected data from a diverse group of 206 migrant university students using two standardized instruments: the Positive Mental Health Scale (PMH-Scale) and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). The findings revealed a spectrum of resilience levels and brought forth a significant number of students demonstrating high positive mental health. On the BRS, 13 students (6.31%) showed low resilience, 190 students (92.23%) exhibited normal resilience, and three students (1.46%) displayed high resilience. On the PMH-Scale, 175 students (84.95%) obtained high scores, indicative of a positive mental health status, while 31 students (15.05%) scored low, suggesting potential challenges in mental well-being. These positive outcomes are a testament to the resilience and strength of our migrant student community, instilling hope for their future. The analysis of the sample data, conducted with robust statistical methods, revealed a meaningful and statistically significant positive correlation between PMHS-9 and BRS-6. This validation of the relationship between the two variables is crucial. The correlation coefficient (r) between PMHS-9 and BRS-6 was 0.188, indicating that as PMHS-9 increased, BRS-6 tended to increase, and vice versa. The p-value associated with the correlation coefficient was 0.007, suggesting a low probability of observing a correlation coefficient as extreme as 0.188 by chance alone. Therefore, the correlation between PMHS-9 and BRS-6 was statistically significant at the 0.01 level, further reinforcing the research findings. This research provides insights into mental health resilience in multicultural university settings. The results could help develop tailored support programs for migrant student populations.
Teachers Knowledge towards Autism Spectrum Disorder and its Associated Factor in Addis Ababa public schools, Ethiopia, 2024 Multicenter cross sectional study
Authors: Tsegaye Mizan , Menbere Fasil , Godie Yohannes , Kassaye Fikirte , Birhanu Dires , Assefa Teklu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily impacting social communication and behavior. Preschool and primary school teachers have a vital role in identifying and supporting these children. However, the extent of teachers' knowledge about the disorder and their knowledge towards including children with ASD in their classrooms remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge towards including children with autism spectrum disorders in their classrooms, and associated factors among preschool and primary school teachers in public schools in Addis Ababa.
Methods and Materials
Data from preschool and primary school teachers were collected using a self-administered questionnaire between September 2023 and December 2023. The collected data were analyzed utilizing SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize the findings, while bivariate binary logistic regression was utilized to examine associations between variables.
Results
The study findings revealed that only 35.5% of teachers had adequate knowledge, and the mean attitude score was 3.4, indicating a slight positive inclination towards inclusive education. Teachers between the ages of 20 and 25 had 90% lower knowledge compared to those above 40 years (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.48–0.7) with a p-value of 0.014. First to sixth-grade class teachers were 2.4 times more likely to have adequate knowledge (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.2–4.5) with a p-value of 0.007. Those who relied on social media as a knowledge source were 60% more likely to have knowledge compared to those who did not (AOR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2–0.8) with a p-value of 0.013. Previous experience with a child who has special needs increased the likelihood of having adequate knowledge by 44% (AOR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.2–0.9) with a p-value of 0.04.
Conclusion and recommendation
The overall level of knowledge regarding ASD is inadequate; however, there is a positive tendency towards including students with ASD in regular classes. It is recommended to provide professional development programs, as well as develop guidelines and curriculum, to enhance teachers' knowledge.
Distinct patterns of satDNA distribution in spike-sedges (Eleocharis, Cyperaceae): evidence of repeat-based holocentromeres
Authors: Souza Thaíssa Boldieri , Parteka Letícia Maria , Kuo Yi-Tzu , Nascimento Thiago Henrique , Schubert Veit , Pedrosa-Harand Andrea , Marques André , Houben Andreas , Vanzela André Luís Laforga 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Eleocharis R. Br. (Cyperaceae) species are known for having holocentric chromosomes, which enable rapid karyotype differentiation. Indeed, high intra- and interspecific variations in chromosome numbers and genome sizes are documented for different Eleocharis species, frequently accompanied by fluctuations in the repetitive DNA fraction. However, a lack of detailed analysis has hampered a better understanding of the interplay between holocentricity and repetitive DNA evolution in the genus. In this study, we confirmed the holocentricity of Eleocharis chromosomes by immunostaining against KNL1, histone H2AThr121ph and H3S10ph. We further studied the composition and chromosomal distribution of the main satellite DNA repeats found in five newly sequenced species. Five of the six satellites discovered were arranged in clusters, while EmaSAT14 was dispersed irregularly along the chromatid length in a line-like manner. This satDNA was accumulated exclusively by species belonging to the series Maculosae of the subgenus Eleocharis. The chromosomal distribution and genomic organization of EmaSAT14 suggest that it is a potential holocentromeric repeat. Our findings suggest that repeat-based holocentromeres are likely to evolve in a similar way across holocentric plants.
Sociodemographic characteristics on behavioural risk factors of noncommunicable diseases in adolescents in Luxembourg
Authors: Mendes Felipe , Ferreira Joana Lopes , Catunda Carolina 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for 89% of deaths in Luxembourg in 2019, aligning with Europe’s but exceeding the global average of 74%. Behaviours play a critical role in NCD management, with unhealthy lifestyles—like poor diets, physical inactivity, tobacco, and alcohol consuptiom—posing significant risks, specially when combined. The preent study aims to explore socio-demographic characteristics of adolescents presenting behavioural risk for NCDs in Luxembourg.
Methods: A representative sample of 8117 adolescents (11-to-18-years-old) took part in the 2022 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Luxembourg survey. We measured physical inactivity, daily sugar consumption, cigarette and alcohol use, and their combination (1, 2 or 3≥ risks). The sociodemographic characteristics investigated were sex, age, migration status, family structure and perceived wealth. Binomial logistic regression crude and adjusted were performed with socio-demographic characteristics for each risk behaviour. In addition, multinomial logistic regression crude and adjusted were used to analyse the association between the combination of risk behaviours and the sociodemographic information of the adolescents in Luxembourg.
Results: Girls had higher odds of physical inactivity (OR=2.06) than boys, and older age groups exhibited elevated odds of physical inactivity (OR=2.99), cigarette (OR=25.00), and alcohol use (OR=35.56). Migration status emerged as a protective factor against alcohol consumption (parents' migration OR=0.60; self-immigrated OR=0.45) but a risk factor for physical inactivity (parents' migration OR=1.50; self-immigrated OR=1.72). Adolescents who did not live with both parents were more likely to be physically inactive (OR=1.37), consume sugar daily (OR=1.33), smoke cigarettes (OR=1.26) and consume alcohol (OR=1.80). Adolescents that reported their families were not well off had higher odds to be physically inactive (OR=2.12) and to consume sugar daily (OR=1.39). The simultaneity of risk behaviours reveals a worrying trend of increasing risk with age, highlighting the need for preventive interventions throughout adolescence. Besides that, the results in relation to family structure and perceived wealth highlights the complexity and interrelationship of these factors in adolescent behavioural health.
Conclusions: Therefore, the study provides guidance to create more effective interventions aiming to promote healthy behaviours in adolescents.
Modulation of the Immunological Milieu in Acute Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: The Potential Role of Monocytes Through CXCL10 Secretion
Authors: Sanchez Sebastian , Chimenti Michael S , Lu Yongjun , Sagues Elena , Gudino Andres , Dier Carlos , Hasan David , Samaniego Edgar A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Emerging evidence indicates that aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) elicits a response from both innate and adaptive immune systems. An upregulation of CD8 + CD161 + cells has been observed after aSAH, yet the precise role of these cells in the context of aSAH is yet to be elucidated.
Methods
CSF samples from patients aSAH and non-aneurysmal SAH (naSAH) were analyzed. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) was performed on CD8 + CD161 + sorted samples from aSAH patients. Cell populations were identified using “clustering”. Gene expression levels of ten previously described genes involved in inflammation were quantified from aSAH and naSAH samples using RT-qPCR. The study focused on the following genes: CCL5, CCL7, APOE, SPP1, CXCL8, CXCL10, HMOX1, LTB, MAL, and HLA-DRB1.
Results
Genes clustering analysis revealed that monocytes, NK cells, and T cells expressed CD8 + CD161 + in the CSF of patients with aSAH. In comparison to naSAH samples, aSAH samples exhibited higher mRNA levels of CXCL10 (median, IQR = 90, 16–149 vs 0.5, 0-6.75, p = 0.02). A trend towards higher HMOX1 levels was also observed in aSAH (median, IQR = 12.6, 9-17.6 vs 2.55, 1.68–5.7, p = 0.076). Specifically, CXCL10 and HMOX1 were expressed by the monocyte subpopulation.
conclusion
Monocytes, NK cells and T cells can potentially expressed CD8 + CD161 + in patients with aSAH. Notably, monocytes show high levels CXCL10. The elevated expression of CXCL10 in aSAH compared to non-aneurysmal SAH naSAH indicates its potential significance as a target for future studies.