bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Teacher perceptions of parent collaboration in multi-ethnic ECEC settings
Authors: Ovati Tone S. R. , Rydland Veslemøy , Grøver Vibeke , Lekhal Ratib 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionFor teachers working in multi-ethnic early childhood education and care settings, a strong collaboration with parents may be an important mechanism for supporting young children's language development. However, little research has investigated how teachers perceive their communication with parents from diverse backgrounds and what centre-level factors predict the quality of teacher-parent collaboration.MethodsThis study sought to explore teacher-parent collaboration within early childhood education and care in urban multi-ethnic areas of Norway, using survey data from 266 teachers across 56 centres and 198 classrooms. We examined whether teacher characteristics (education, experience and self-efficacy) and centre linguistic diversity were related to teacher perceived communication with parents regarding ways of supporting children's dual language development and teacher experienced challenges in parent collaboration.ResultsResults revealed that teachers with higher self-efficacy communicated more with parents and experienced less challenges in collaboration with them. Furthermore, more experienced teachers working in more linguistically diverse centres identified more challenges in parent collaboration, while these characteristics were not related to communication. Teacher education was not associated with communication nor challenges in parent collaboration.DiscussionOur results indicate that professional development measures targeted at strengthening teacher self-efficacy might be an important mechanism to promote parent collaboration, particularly in multi-ethnic education settings.
Cushing’s syndrome during pregnancy - two case reports
Authors: Cholekho Sumita , Liu Yuke , Tan Huiwen 
Published: March 2024

BackgroundCushing’s syndrome (CS) during pregnancy is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by hypercortisolism, which is significantly associated with maternal-fetal complications. Despite its rarity, CS during pregnancy may be related to a high risk of complications for both the mother and fetus.The aim of the present case study is to update the diagnostic approach to CS during pregnancy and the therapeutic strategies for this medical condition to minimize maternal-fetal complications.MethodsHere, we present two cases of CS in pregnant women, one of whom had twins. Typical clinical symptoms and signs of hypercortisolism developed at the beginning of pregnancy. The plasma cortisol diurnal rhythm of the pregnant patient was absent. CS was confirmed by cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) assessment, as well as imaging examination. We investigated the changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis during normal pregnancy and the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of CS during pregnancy.ConclusionDue to the associated risks of laparoscopic adrenalectomy,it is uncertain whether this treatment significantly decreases overall maternal mortality. Additional observational research and validation through randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are required. We advise that CS in pregnant women be diagnosed and treated by experienced teams in relevant departments and medical centers.
Enhancing environmental management through big data: spatial analysis of urban ecological governance and big data development
Authors: Lei Yunliang 
Published: March 2024

Introduction: This research focuses on exploring the impact of Big Data Development (BDD) on Urban Ecological Governance Performance (EGP), with a particular emphasis on environmental dimensions within and among various regions. It aims to understand the complex interplay between technological advancements, urbanization, and environmental management in the context of urban ecological governance.Methods: Employing the Spatial Durbin Model (SDM), the study rigorously investigates the effects of BDD on EGP. It also examines the mediating role of Industrial Structure Level (ISL) and the moderating effects of both Level of Technological Investment (LTI) and Urbanization Level (URB), to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing urban ecological governance.Results: The findings reveal that big data significantly strengthens urban ecological governance, characterized by pronounced spatial spillover effects, indicating interregional interdependence in environmental management. Urbanization level notably amplifies the influence of BDD on EGP, whereas the magnitude of technological investments does not show a similar effect. Moreover, the industrial structure acts as a partial mediator in the relationship between BDD and EGP, with this mediating role demonstrating variability across different regions.Discussion: The research highlights the critical role of big data in enhancing urban ecological governance, particularly in terms of environmental aspects. It underscores the importance of technological advancements and urbanization in augmenting the effectiveness of ecological governance. The variability of the mediating role of industrial structure across regions suggests the need for tailored strategies in implementing big data initiatives for environmental management.
LncRNA-mediated ceRNA network reveals the mechanism of action of Saorilao-4 decoction against pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Fu Xinyue , Song Xinni , Niu Shufang , Shi Songli , Chang Hong , Qi Jun , Wang Peng , Bai Wanfu 
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a type of interstitial pneumonia with complex etiology and high mortality, is characterized by progressive scarring of the alveolar interstitium and myofibroblastic lesions. In this study, we screened for potential biomarkers in PF and clarified the role of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network in the inhibitory effect of SRL-4 on PF.Methods: Healthy male SPF SD rats were randomly divided into three groups, namely, CON, MOD, and SRL-4. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed to determine the biological functions of the target genes. A visualized lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was constructed using Cytoscape, while key genes in the network were identified using the cytoNCA plugin.Results: Seventy-four differentially expressed lncRNAs and 118 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that the target genes were mainly enriched in the cell membrane and in response to organic substances, while Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that the target genes were mainly enriched in the AMPK, PPAR, and cAMP signaling pathways. We elucidated a ceRNA axis, namely, Plcd3-OT1/rno-miR-150-3p/Fkbp5, with potential implications in PF. Key genes, such as AABR07051308.1-201, F2rl2-OT1, and LINC3337, may be important targets for the treatment of PF, while the AMPK, PPAR, and cAMP signaling pathways are potential key targets and important pathways through which SRL-4 mitigates PF.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that SRL-4 improves PF by regulating the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network.
Identification of novel blood-based extracellular vesicles biomarker candidates with potential specificity for traumatic brain injury in polytrauma patients
Authors: Schindler Cora R. , Hörauf Jason A. , Weber Birte , Schaible Inna , Marzi Ingo , Henrich Dirk , Leppik Liudmila 
Published: March 2024

ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to identify changes in extracellular vesicles (EV) surface proteins specific to traumatic brain injury (TBI), which could be used as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in polytrauma patients.Summary Background DataKnown serum TBI-specific biomarkers (S100B, NSE, and GFAP), which can predict the severity and outcome of isolated TBI, lose their predictive value in the presence of additional extracranial injuries. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released from cells in response to various stimuli and carry specific cargo/surface molecules that could be used for tracking injury-responding cells.MethodsEVs were isolated using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) from the plasma of two groups of patients (with isolated TBI, ISS≥16, AIShead≥4, n=10; and polytraumatized patients without TBI ISS≥16, AIShead=0, n=10) collected in the emergency room and 48 h after trauma. EVs’ surface epitope expression was investigated using a neurospecific multiplex flow cytometry assay and compared with healthy controls (n=10). Three enrichments of EV epitopes found to be specific to TBI were validated by western blot.ResultsThe expression of 10 EV epitopes differed significantly among the patient and control groups, and five of these epitopes (CD13, CD196, MOG, CD133, and MBP) were TBI-specific. The increased expression of CD196, CD13, and MOG-positive EVs was validated by western blot.ConclusionOur data showed that TBI is characterized by a significant increase of CD13, CD196, MOG, CD133, and MBP-positive EVs in patients’ plasma. A high level of MOG-positive EVs negatively correlated with the Glasgow Coma Scale score at admission and could be an indicator of poor neurological status.
Global sensitivity of EEG source analysis to tissue conductivity uncertainties
Authors: Vorwerk Johannes , Wolters Carsten H. , Baumgarten Daniel 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionTo reliably solve the EEG inverse problem, accurate EEG forward solutions based on a detailed, individual volume conductor model of the head are essential. A crucial—but often neglected—aspect in generating a volume conductor model is the choice of the tissue conductivities, as these may vary from subject to subject. In this study, we investigate the sensitivity of EEG forward and inverse solutions to tissue conductivity uncertainties for sources distributed over the whole cortex surface.MethodsWe employ a detailed five-compartment head model distinguishing skin, skull, cerebrospinal fluid, gray matter, and white matter, where we consider uncertainties of skin, skull, gray matter, and white matter conductivities. We use the finite element method (FEM) to calculate EEG forward solutions and goal function scans (GFS) as inverse approach. To be able to generate the large number of EEG forward solutions, we employ generalized polynomial chaos (gPC) expansions.ResultsFor sources up to a depth of 4 cm, we find the strongest influence on the signal topography of EEG forward solutions for the skull conductivity and a notable effect for the skin conductivity. For even deeper sources, e.g., located deep in the longitudinal fissure, we find an increasing influence of the white matter conductivity. The conductivity variations translate to varying source localizations particularly for quasi-tangential sources on sulcal walls, whereas source localizations of quasi-radial sources on the top of gyri are less affected. We find a strong correlation between skull conductivity and the variation of source localizations and especially the depth of the reconstructed source for quasi-tangential sources. We furthermore find a clear but weaker correlation between depth of the reconstructed source and the skin conductivity.DiscussionOur results clearly show the influence of tissue conductivity uncertainties on EEG source analysis. We find a particularly strong influence of skull and skin conductivity uncertainties.
Higher serum Lp-PLA2 is associated with cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease patients
Authors: Wu Zubo , Shu Defeng , Wu Suyuan , Cai Pengcheng , Liang Tao 
Published: March 2024

ObjectiveTo explore the association between lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) and the risk of cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease (PD-CI).MethodsA case–control study involving 100 hospitalized PD patients and 60 healthy controls was carried out. Serum Lp-PLA2 level was detected by automatic biochemical analyzer. Based on whether Parkinson’s patients have cognitive impairment, PD patients were subdivided to analyze the clinical value of Lp-PLA2. Relationship between Lp-PLA2 and PD-CI risk was analyzed by logistic regression. Diagnostic value of Lp-PLA2 in PD-CI patients was investigated using receiver’s operator characteristic curves.ResultsThe levels of serum Lp-PLA2 activity in Parkinson’s disease with normal cognition (PD-NC) and PD-CI patients were significantly higher than those in healthy controls (HCs), respectively. Furthermore, compared to the PD-NC group, the serum Lp-PLA2 activity level was significantly higher in PD-CI patients. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that higher Lp-PLA2 level was an independent risk factor for PD patients with cognitive impairment. Moreover, the area under the efficacy curve of Lp-PLA2 for predicting PD-CI is 0.659.ConclusionOur study shows that higher levels of Lp-PLA2 activity in PD patients are associated with the risk of developing cognitive impairment. Therefore, given the wide availability, safety, and convenience of monitoring serum Lp-PLA2 activity, it may serve as an early biomarker for cognitive impairment in PD patients.
Novel biomarkers of inflammation-associated immunity in cervical cancer
Authors: Zhao Weihong , Li Qi , Wen Songquan , Li Yaqin , Bai Ying , Tian Zhiyu 
Published: March 2024

BackgroundCervical cancer (CC) is a highly malignant gynecological cancer with a direct causal link to inflammation, primarily resulting from persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Given the challenges in early detection and mid to late-stage treatment, our research aims to identify inflammation-associated immune biomarkers in CC.MethodsUsing a bioinformatics approach combined with experimental validation, we integrated two CC datasets (GSE39001 and GSE63514) in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to eliminate batch effects. Immune-related inflammation differentially expressed genes (DGEs) were obtained by R language identification.ResultsThis analysis identified 37 inflammation-related DEGs. Subsequently, we discussed the different levels of immune infiltration between CC cases and controls. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified seven immune infiltration-related modules in CC. We identified 15 immune DEGs associated with inflammation at the intersection of these findings. In addition, we constructed a protein interaction network using the String database and screened five hub genes using "CytoHubba": CXC chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), CXC chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), CX3C chemokine receptor 1 (CX3CR1), Fc gamma receptors 3B (FCGR3B), and SELL. The expression of these five genes in CC was determined by PCR experiments. In addition, we assessed their diagnostic value and further analyzed the association of immune cells with them.ConclusionsFive inflammation- and immune-related genes were identified, aiming to provide new directions for early diagnosis and mid to late-stage treatment of CC from multiple perspectives.
An in vitro study to elucidate the effects of Product Nkabinde on immune response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy donors
Authors: Setlhare Boitumelo , Letsoalo Marothi , Nkabinde Siphathimandla Authority , Nkabinde Magugu , Mzobe Gugulethu , Mtshali Andile , Parveen Sobia , Ngcobo Samukelisiwe , Invernizzi Luke , Maharaj Vinesh , Ngcobo Mlungisi , Gqaleni Nceba 
Published: March 2024

Introduction: A significant number of the South African population still rely on traditional medicines (TM) for their primary healthcare. However, little to no scientific data is available on the effects of most TM products on cytokine and cellular biomarkers of the immune response. We evaluated the impact of a TM [Product Nkabinde (PN)] in inducing cellular and cytokine biomarkers of immune response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).Methods: PN, a combination of four indigenous South African plants was used in this study. The IC50 was established using the cell viability assay over 24 h. Luminex and flow cytometry assays were used to measure cytokine and cellular levels in PBMCs stimulated with PN and/or PHA over 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. UPLC-HRMS was used to analyze an ethanol: water extract of PN to better understand the possible active compounds.Results: The IC50 concentration of PN in treated PBMCs was established at 325.3 μg/mL. In the cellular activation assay, the percentages of CD38-HLA-DR + on total CD4+ T cells were significantly increased in PBMCs stimulated with PN compared to unstimulated controls after 24 h (p = 0.008). PN significantly induced the production of anti-inflammatory IL-10 (p = &lt; 0.001); proinflammatory cytokines IL-1α and IL-1β (p = &lt; 0.001), TNF-α (p &lt; 0.0001); and chemokine MIP-1β (p = &lt; 0.001) compared to the unstimulated control after 24 h. At 48 h incubation, the production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1α (p = 0.003) was significantly induced following treatment with PN, and IL-10 was induced (p = 0.006). Based on the UPLC-HRMS analysis, four daphnane diterpenoids viz., yuanhuacine A (1), gniditrin (2), yuanhuajine (3) and yuanhuacine (4) were identified based on their accurate mass and fragmentation pattern.Conclusion: The results show that PN possesses in vitro immunomodulatory properties that may influence immune and inflammatory responses. This study contributes to scientific knowledge about the immune effects of TM. More studies using PN are needed to further understand key parameters mediating induction, expression, and regulation of the immune response in the context of pathogen-associated infections.
Parents’ experiences of living with a child with cancer undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a qualitative content analysis study
Authors: Maleki Maryam , Dehghan Nayeri Nahid , Hamidieh Amir Ali , Pouraboli Batool 
Published: March 2024

ObjectivesPediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) profoundly impacts the physical, psychological, and social aspects of parents’ lives. Thus, this study aimed to explore the experiences of parents living with a child with cancer who undergoes HSCT.MethodsThis qualitative study involved 20 parents of children with cancer who were undergoing HSCT at a referral hospital in Iran. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants from February 2023 to November 2023. In-depth semi-structured interviews, featuring open-ended questions, were utilized for data collection. Data analysis was performed using conventional content analysis.ResultsData analysis revealed two main themes. “Surrounded by hardships” and “Self-actualization.” The first theme encompassed participants’ experiences of facing difficulties in life after being aware of their child’s need for HSCT. This theme consisted of four categories: “uncertainty about the child’s future,” “exhaustion from the child’s treatment process,” “worrying about the healthy child(ren),” and “helplessness.” The second theme “self-actualization” included with two categories: “transformation in life’s philosophy” and “acquisition of new capabilities.” These categories highlighted the positive outcomes experienced by the participants following their child’s HSCT.ConclusionOur findings underscore the importance of healthcare providers being attuned to parents’ experiences throughout their child’s HSCT trajectory. It is crucial for healthcare providers to encourage parents to articulate their concerns and feelings and seek support from healthcare providers, family, and friends. The development of psychological support services in healthcare settings can facilitate tailored interventions to alleviate parents’ difficulties.
Exploring refugees' experience of accessing dental health services in host countries: a scoping review
Authors: Asfari Elaf , Rodriguez Andrea , Dakessian Arek , Yuan Siyang 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionRefugees often face worse oral health outcomes, such as periodontal diseases and dental caries in host countries due to barriers including language and cultural differences, institutional discrimination, and restricted use of dental health services. This scoping review aims to map and summarise the available studies on refugees’ experience of accessing dental health services in the host countries, to identify the main characteristics of the dental health services that refugees access and to explore the barriers and enablers to navigate the dental health service system in their host countries.MethodsThe Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework was adopted. PubMed, Scopus, Assia, CINAHL and Social Services Abstract were searched. A search strategy was developed using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and a combination of search operators and syntax used in MEDLINE were adopted for the remaining databases. Data were synthesised using thematic analysis.ResultsFourteen articles were included. Most studies used qualitative methods and Australia seemed to be the country with the highest number of publications surrounding this topic. The included studies showed that refugees frequently encountered substantial obstacles when attempting to access dental services in host countries. Numerous barriers such as language barriers, cultural differences, and lack of health insurance or financial support hindered refugees' ability to access these services. Additionally, many refugees possessed limited knowledge of the dental care system in their new country. As a result of untreated dental problems, refugees suffered from pain and other health complications.DiscussionThis scoping review explored the challenges refugees have experienced in accessing dental health services in host countries, which included the key barriers such as affordability, accessibility, accommodation, availability, awareness, and acceptability. The scarcity of relevant research highlighted the need for a more comprehensive understanding of refugees’ experiences accessing dental health services in host countries. Limited data were identified regarding evidence focusing on the characteristics of dental services accessed by refugees in host countries.
Trust in the Transplant Team Associated With the Level of Chronic Illness Management—A Secondary Data Analysis of the International BRIGHT Study
Authors: Mielke Juliane , Cajita Maan Isabella , Denhaerynck Kris , Valenta Sabine , Dobbels Fabienne , Russell Cynthia L. , De Geest Sabina ,   the BRIGHT study team
Published: March 2024

A trustful relationship between transplant patients and their transplant team (interpersonal trust) is essential in order to achieve positive health outcomes and behaviors. We aimed to 1) explore variability of trust in transplant teams; 2) explore the association between the level of chronic illness management and trust; 3) investigate the relationship of trust on behavioral outcomes. A secondary data analysis of the BRIGHT study (ID: NCT01608477; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01608477?id=NCT01608477&amp;rank=1) was conducted, including multicenter data from 36 heart transplant centers from 11 countries across four different continents. A total of 1,397 heart transplant recipients and 100 clinicians were enrolled. Trust significantly varied among the transplant centers. Higher levels of chronic illness management were significantly associated with greater trust in the transplant team (patients: AOR= 1.85, 95% CI = 1.47–2.33, p &lt; 0.001; clinicians: AOR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.07–1.71, p = 0.012). Consultation time significantly moderated the relationship between chronic illness management levels and trust only when clinicians spent ≥30 min with patients. Trust was significantly associated with better diet adherence (OR = 1.34, 95%CI = 1.01–1.77, p = 0.040). Findings indicate the relevance of trust and chronic illness management in the transplant ecosystem to achieve improved transplant outcomes. Thus, further investment in re-engineering of transplant follow-up toward chronic illness management, and sufficient time for consultations is required.