bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The categorizations of vasculogenic mimicry in clear cell renal cell carcinoma unveil inherent connections with clinical and immune features
Authors: Geng Bo , Liu Weiyang , Wang Jinpeng , Zhang Wei , Li Zhuolun , Zhang Nan , Hou Wenbin , Zhao Enyang , Li Xuedong , You Bosen 
Published: December 2023

Background: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) stands as the prevailing variant kidney cancer in humans. Unfortunately, patients with disseminated RCC at diagnosis often have a diminished prognosis. Rapid tumor growth necessitates efficient blood supply for oxygen and nutrients, involving the circulation of blood from vessels to tumor tissues, facilitating tumor cell entry into the extracellular matrix. Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) significantly contributes to tumor growth and metastasis. Within this investigation, we identified vasculogenic mimicry-related genes (VMRGs) by analyzing data from 607 cases of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/). These findings offer insights into ccRCC progression and metastasis.Method: We identified VMRGs-related subtypes using consistent clustering methods. The signature of the VMRGs was created using univariate Cox regression and LASSO Cox regression analyses. To evaluate differences in immune cell infiltration, we employed ssGSEA. Afterwards, we created an innovative risk assessment model, known as the VM index, along with a nomogram to forecast the prognosis of ccRCC. Additionally, we verified the expression of an important gene related to VM, peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2), in tissue samples. Furthermore, we assessed the sensitivity to drugs in various groups by utilizing the pRRophetic R package.Results: Significant predictors of survival rates in both high- and low-risk groups of KIRC patients were identified as VMRGs. The independent prognostic factors for RCC were confirmed by both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, validating VMRG risk signatures. Differences were observed in drug sensitivity, immune checkpoint expression, and responses to immune therapy between patients classified into high- and low-VMRG-risk groups. Our nomograms consistently demonstrated precise predictive capabilities. Finally, we experimentally verified PRDX2 expression levels and their impact on prognosis.Conclusion: The signature predicts patient prognosis and therapy response, laying the groundwork for future clinical strategies in treating ccRCC patients.
Improving seed germination and physiological characteristics of maize seedlings under osmotic stress through potassium nano-silicate treatment
Authors: Weisany Weria , Razmi Javad , Pashang Danial 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionOsmotic stress can significantly affect the survival and functioning of living organisms, particularly during vulnerable stages such as seed germination and seedling growth. To address this issue, advanced technologies like nanofertilizers have been developed to improve soil conditions and enhance plant growth in stressed ecosystems due to their multiple effects and efficient consumption.MethodsThe objective of this study was to investigate the impact of potassium nano-silicate (PNS) on the physiological characteristics of maize seedlings and seed germination under various levels of osmotic stress induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG). The study considered two factors: two levels of PNS concentration (500 and 1000 ppm) and PEG-6000 solution with different osmotic stress levels (-2, -4, -6, and -8 bars).Results and discussionThe results demonstrated that the application of PNS at a concentration of 1000 ppm led to increased radicle length and hypocotyl length as well as fresh weight of maize seedlings. Furthermore, PNS at a concentration of 1000 ppm had a more beneficial effect on the germination rate of maize seedlings under osmotic stress compared to 500 ppm. Additionally, the application of PNS under osmotic stress conditions resulted in an increase in various physiological parameters, including protein content, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll content, proline content, and the activity of catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (AXPO) enzymes. These findings indicate that the use of PNS can have a positive impact on the physiological characteristics of maize seedlings and seed germination under osmotic stress conditions. Overall, this technology has the potential to enhance crop growth and yield in stressed ecosystems. By improving the survival and function of plants during vulnerable stages, such as seed germination and seedling growth, the application of PNS can contribute to more resilient agricultural practices and promote sustainable food production in challenging environments.
Cognitive functioning and psychosomatic syndromes in a subjective tinnitus sample
Authors: Gasparre Daphne , Pepe Ilaria , Laera Domenico , Abbatantuono Chiara , De Caro Maria Fara , Taurino Alessandro , D’Erasmo Daniele , Fanizzi Piero , Antonucci Linda A. , Pantaleo Alessandra , Cavallaro Giada , Pontillo Vito , Taurisano Paolo , Quaranta Nicola 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionTinnitus is the perception of a sound in the absence of any corresponding external sound source. Current research suggests a relationship among emotional, cognitive, and psychosomatic symptoms and the occurrence or maintenance of chronic tinnitus. This study aimed to detect the prevalence and role of psychosomatic conditions, as defined by the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR), and cognitive functioning in a group of patients with tinnitus.MethodsSixty-two patients with subjective tinnitus and 62 non-tinnitus controls were recruited from the Otorhinolaryngology Unit of the University of Bari. Pure-tone audiometry was performed in all tinnitus subjects, and sound level tolerance was evaluated. Additionally, tinnitus handicap (Tinnitus Handicap Inventory [THI]), psychopathological symptoms (Symptom Checklist-90, Revised [SCL-90-R]), anxiety (State–Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI-Y1/2]), depression (Beck Depression Inventory [BDI]), cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE]), executive functions (Frontal Assessment Battery [FAB]), and psychosomatic syndromes (DCPR) were evaluated. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used to detect cognitive and symptomatological differences between patients and controls. The predictivity of these factors for tinnitus severity was studied using multiple regression (Backward Elimination). All tests were considered significant at p &lt; 0.05 (family wise error corrected for each comparison).Results69.4% tinnitus patients met multiple DCPR criteria, compared to 32.3% of controls. Tinnitus patients exhibited elevated rates of illness denial (ꭓ2 = 9.02; p &lt; 0.009), demoralization (ꭓ2 = 8.05; p &lt; 0.018), somatization (ꭓ2 = 4.92; p &lt; 0.063) and functional symptoms (ꭓ2 = 5.21; p &lt; 0.06) scoring significantly higher on the BDI, STAI-Y1, and STAI-Y2, and SCL-90-R compared to controls. Patients with tinnitus showed lower MMSE scores, compared to controls (t = −2.282; p &lt; 0.001). No association between tinnitus severity and global cognitive impairment emerged. Conversely, executive function deficits were associated to tinnitus severity. Among the cognitive and psychological factors, only trait anxiety, one or more psychosomatic syndromes, and somatization clusters were strongly correlated with tinnitus severity.DiscussionOur findings suggest a relationship between tinnitus severity, psychological, psychosomatic symptoms, and frontal impairment. Additionally, the influence of tinnitus on cognitive functions paves the way for integrated, multidisciplinary diagnostic and treatment options for patients. Although preliminary, our findings highlight the importance of early cognitive and psychological screening to improve patients’ quality of life.
Exploring the psychosocial characteristics of women with gambling disorder through a qualitative study
Authors: Estévez Ana , Macía Laura , Ontalvilla Andrea , Aurrekoetxea Maite 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionGambling disorder is a behavioral addiction that has been primarily male, but in the last few years, the age of onset has been equated between the sexes. The profile of female gamblers could be different from that of men. Consequently, this study analyzes the testimonies of women with gambling disorder to determine their specific characteristics (gambling motives, gambling preferences, and associated pathologies).MethodThe sample comprises 18 women with gambling disorder aged between 30 and 68. Three discussion groups were held, and a “blind” inductive process was carried out to extract categories. The Atlas.Ti 22.0 program was used to recode and analyze the data.ResultsResults show that women may start gambling due to abuse suffered in childhood, and often family members initiate women into gambling. Likewise, the onset of gambling could be a maladaptive way to manage negative emotions. Also highlighted is the predominance of feelings of social stigmatization, which can be reflected in women’s choice of games where they are not visible. Comorbidity with other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and the use of other substances are noteworthy.DiscussionThe factors explaining why female gamblers do not seek treatment compared to male gamblers are analyzed. More studies on women’s experience with gambling are needed to address the specific characteristics of gambling disorder in women.
A bidirectional relationship between cognitive reserve and cognition among older adults in a rural Chinese community: a cross-lagged design
Authors: Chen Hao , Jiang Zhiyue , Hu Jin , Yang Xing , Gui Shiqi , Li Qiushuo , Wang Jing , Yang Jingyuan 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundThe concept of cognitive reserve (CR) plays a crucial role in understanding cognitive aging and resilience. Accumulating evidence revealed the influence of CR proxy on cognitive function, but it remains unknown whether a reverse association or reciprocal effect exists.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to observe the bidirectional relationship between cognitive reserve proxies and cognitive function among older adults in rural Chinese communities, providing a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and potential moderating factors involved.MethodThis longitudinal study analyzed 792 older adults (70.23 ± 5.87 years; 59.8%female) aged 60 years and older from the health status of rural older adults (HSRO) study over a 3-year period. Cognition was assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Cross-lagged panel modeling was utilized to analyze the interrelationship between cognitive reserve proxies and cognitive performance. Additionally, latent profile analysis was employed to identify different subtypes of neuropathic load within the study population.ResultsOur cross-lagged analyses revealed significant associations between CR at T0 and MMSE scores at T1 (β = 0.81), as well as between MMSE scores at T0 and CR at T1 (β = 0.04). However, when conducting stratified analyses, we found no significant lagged relationships among individuals with high neuropathic load or those at an advanced age (p &gt; 0.05). Furthermore, our longitudinal comparisons indicated changes in the contribution of CR proxy factors over time.ConclusionThe findings suggested a bidirectional relationship between cognitive reserve and cognitive performance in older adults. These results emphasized the importance of implementing timely public health measures to enhance cognitive reserve and cognitive performance ultimately promoting healthier aging among older adults.
Conceptual disorganization as a mediating variable between visual learning and metacognition in schizophrenia
Authors: Montemagni Cristiana , Brasso Claudio , Bellino Silvio , Bozzatello Paola , Villari Vincenzo , Rocca Paola 
Published: December 2023

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the relative contributions of visual learning and conceptual disorganization to specific metacognitive domains in a sample of outpatients with stable schizophrenia.MethodsA total of 92 consecutive outpatients with stable schizophrenia were recruited in a cross-sectional study. We analyzed the data with five path analyses based on multiple regressions to analyze the specific effect of visual learning on metacognitive capacity and metacognitive domains and the possible mediating role of conceptual disorganization.ResultsWe found that (i) visual learning was negatively correlated to metacognitive capacity and its domains on the one hand and conceptual disorganization on the other hand; (ii) conceptual disorganization was negatively associated with metacognition and its domains; and (iii) when the mediation effect was considered, conceptual disorganization fully mediated the relationship between visual learning and mastery, whereas it served as a partial mediator of the effect of visual learning on the other metacognition domains, i.e., self-reflectivity, understanding others’ mind, and decentration.ConclusionThese results delineate an articulated panorama of relations between different dimensions of metacognition, visual learning, and conceptual disorganization. Therefore, studies unable to distinguish between different components of metacognition fail to bring out the possibly varying links between neurocognition, disorganization, and metacognition.
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in pregnant women in Kilifi, Kenya from March 2020 to March 2022
Authors: Koech Angela , Omuse Geoffrey , Mugo Alex G. , Mwaniki Isaac G. , Mutunga Joseph M. , Mukhanya Moses W. , Wanje Onesmus , Mwashigadi Grace M. , Katana Geoffrey G. , Craik Rachel , von Dadelszen Peter , Le Doare Kirsty , Temmerman Marleen ,   periCOVID-Africa,   The PRECISE Network
Published: December 2023

BackgroundSeroprevalence studies are an alternative approach to estimating the extent of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and the evolution of the pandemic in different geographical settings. We aimed to determine the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence from March 2020 to March 2022 in a rural and urban setting in Kilifi County, Kenya.MethodsWe obtained representative random samples of stored serum from a pregnancy cohort study for the period March 2020 to March 2022 and tested for antibodies against the spike protein using a qualitative SARS-CoV-2 ELISA kit (Wantai, total antibodies). All positive samples were retested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 anti-nucleocapsid antibodies (Euroimmun, ELISA kits, NCP, qualitative, IgG) and anti-spike protein antibodies (Euroimmun, ELISA kits, QuantiVac; quantitative, IgG).ResultsA total of 2,495 (of 4,703 available) samples were tested. There was an overall trend of increasing seropositivity from a low of 0% [95% CI 0–0.06] in March 2020 to a high of 89.4% [95% CI 83.36–93.82] in Feb 2022. Of the Wantai test-positive samples, 59.7% (95% CI 57.06–62.34) tested positive by the Euroimmun anti-SARS-CoV-2 NCP test and 75.9% (95% CI 73.55–78.17) tested positive by the Euroimmun anti-SARS-CoV-2 QuantiVac test. No differences were observed between the urban and rural hospital but villages adjacent to the major highway traversing the study area had a higher seroprevalence.ConclusionAnti-SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence rose rapidly, with most of the population exposed to SARS-CoV-2 within 23 months of the first cases. The high cumulative seroprevalence suggests greater population exposure to SARS-CoV-2 than that reported from surveillance data.
Increasing bowel cancer screening using SMS in general practice: the SMARTscreen cluster randomised trial
Authors: McIntosh Jennifer G , Jenkins Mark , Wood Anna , Chondros Patty , Campbell Tina , Wenkart Edweana , O’Reilly Clare , Dixon Ian , Toner Julie , Martinez-Gutierrez Javiera , Govan Linda , Emery Jon D 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundAustralia has one of the highest incidences of colorectal cancer (CRC) worldwide. The Australian National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) is a best-practice, organised screening programme, but uptake is low (40.9%) and increasing participation could reduce morbidity and mortality associated with CRC. Endorsement by GPs is strongly associated with increasing screening uptake.AimThis study (SMARTscreen) aimed to test whether a multi-intervention short message service (SMS) sent by general practices to 50–60-year-old patients who were due to receive the NBCSP kit would increase NBCSP uptake, by comparing it with usual care.Design and settingA stratified cluster randomised controlled trial was undertaken, involving 21 Australian general practices in Western Victoria, Australia.MethodFor intervention practices, people due to receive the NBCSP kit within a 6-month study period were sent an SMS just before receiving the kit. The SMS included a personalised message from the person’s general practice endorsing the kit, a motivational narrative video, an instructional video, and a link to more information. Control practices continued with usual care, comprising at-home testing with a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) through the NBCSP. The primary outcome was the between-arm percentage difference in uptake of FIT screening within 12 months from randomisation, which was estimated using generalised linear model regression.ResultsIn total, 39.2% (1143/2914) of people in 11 intervention practices and 23.0% (583/2537) of people in 10 control practices had a FIT result in their electronic health records — a difference of 16.5% (95% confidence interval = 2.02 to 30.9).ConclusionThe SMS intervention increased NBCSP kit return in 50–60-year-old patients in general practice. This finding informed a larger trial — SMARTERscreen — to test this intervention in a broader Australian population.
Evaluation of the Efficiency of Four Different Scoring Systems in the Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis
Authors: YILMAZ Mustafa , AYTEKİN Alper , YILMAZ Latif , BULUT Aziz 
Published: December 2023

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of four commonly used scoring systems (Alvarado, Lintula, RIPASA, Tzanakis) in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in patients to be operated for acute appendicitis.
Materials and Methods: We compared the results and efficacy of the scoring systems with the results of patients with an accurate histopathologic diagnosis of acute appendicitis.
Results: A total number of 115 patients were included in the study (62 male and 53 female). For Alvarado, Lintula, RIPASA and Tzanakis scoring systems, sensitivity was 93.6%, 91.4%, 93.6%, 55.3%, specificity was 71.4%, 90.4%, 81%, 76%, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) was 93.6%, 97.7%, 95.7%, 91.2%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV) was 71.4%, 70.3%, 74%, 27.6%, respectively.
Conclusion: Our findings show that among the four scoring systems, Alvarado, Lintula and RIPASA scoring systems are more effective scoring systems in diagnosing acute appendicitis whereas Tzanakis scoring system had a low diagnostic efficiency. Since ultrasonography findings have a high impact on Tzanakis scoring system, by working with an experienced radiology clinic, Tzanakis scoring system could be also a powerful scoring system at the diagnostic stage. None of the four scoring systems has 100% predictive accuracy in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and all scoring systems have some shortcomings. Nevertheless, we believe that the most important criteria in the diagnostic process are the clinic where the patients are admitted, the examination findings and the experience of the clinician. Scoring systems seem to support the diagnosis and guide the clinician.
Nursing Students’ Views on the Roles of Lecturers in Distance Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Turkey: A Qualitative Study
Authors: AKÇİN ŞENYUVA Emine , ÇALIŞKAN Figen 
Published: December 2023

Aim: In the research, it was aimed to determine the views of nursing students on the changing roles of lecturers in distance education during the COVID-19 pandemic process.
Material and Methods: The research is in a mixed research design. The research was conducted with 50 nursing students who agreed to participate in the research. In determining the research sample, maximum variation sampling method was used. In the analysis of the quantitative data, frequency/percentage, arithmetic mean, and standard deviation values were calculated. In the analysis of qualitative data, "content analysis technique" was used.
Results: Students feel that instructors have not yet fulfilled their role in distance education to the desired level, and are fulfilling these roles more efficiently and effectively in face-to-face education than in distance education. Students’ views on the role of lecturers in distance education are defined under seven themes: classroom management, student motivation, communication with the student, active participation of the student, teaching method, teaching material, and technology use.
Conclusion: In accordance with these results: examining the readiness of lecturers for distance education may be suggested to ensure that lecturers participate in the training of trainers and in-service training activities to improve their roles and competencies in distance education.
Reasons and Frequency of Orogastric Tube Change in Preterm Infants by Nurses Working in Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Authors: MERTER Özlem Selime , DERTLİ Semiha , KOÇ Özlem 
Published: December 2023

Objective: Among nutritional support methods for preterm infants, enteral feeding via orogastric tube is widely used clinically. This study aims to determine the causes and frequency of orogastric tube replacement in preterm infants.
Materials and Methods: The descriptive study was conducted with 154 nurses working in NICUs. 'Descriptive Information Form' for nurses and an 'Orogastric Tube Evaluation Form' developed with expert opinion were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.
Results: The mean age of the nurses in the study was 30.97±5.79, the mean number of years working in the profession was 8.57±6.21, and the mean number of years working in the NICU was 5.94±4.63 years. It was found that 95.5% of the nurses were female, 73.4% had an undergraduate degree, 90.9% worked in a 3rd level NICU and 82.5% had NICU training. The most common reason for orogastric tube replacement was the infant pulling out the orogastric tube (98.1%). The frequency of orogastric tube replacement was higher in the night shift. However, the frequency of orogastric tube replacement was 2 or more times (71.4%) especially in infants followed up with CPAP. It was observed that the frequency of changing the orogastric tube was higher in the prone position (27.9%) and the frequency of changing the orogastric tube (73.4%) was higher in preterm infants fed 12*1.
Conclusion: It was concluded that problems related to OGT fixation were the most common reasons for orogastric tube replacement.