bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Brain-enriched guanylate kinase-associated protein (BEGAIN), a component of the post-synaptic density protein complexes, contributes to physiological plasticity, learning and memory
Authors: Katano Tayo , Konno Kohtarou , Takao Keizo , Abe Manabu , Yoshikawa Akari , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi , Sakimura Kenji , Watanabe Masahiko , Ito Seiji , Kobayashi Takuya 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Brain-enriched guanylate kinase-associated protein (BEGAIN) is a neuropathic pain-related protein in the spinal dorsal horn that is highly enriched in the post-synaptic density (PSD) fraction. PSD proteins complexes containing N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are known to be involved in synaptic plasticity in neuropathic pain. Since these PSD proteins are also participate in synaptic plasticity in learning and memory, BEGAIN is also expected to play a crucial role in this plasticity. To verify this, we first examined the distribution of BEGAIN in the brain. We found that BEGAIN was widely distributed in the brain and highly expressed in the dendritic regions of the hippocampus. Moreover, we also found that BEGAIN was concentrated in the PSD fraction of the hippocampus. Furthermore, immunoelectron microscopy confirmed that BEGAIN was localized at the asymmetric synapses. To determine the contribution of BEGAIN towards learning and memory, behavioral tests were performed using BEGAIN-knockout (KO) mice. Spatial reference memory and reversal learning in the Barns circular maze test along with contextual fear and cued fear memory in the contextual and cued fear conditioning test were significantly impaired in BEGAIN KO mice in comparison to the wild-type mice. Thus, this study reveals that BEGAIN is an excitatory postsynaptic molecule involved in learning and memory.
Public’s Willingness to Perform COVID-19 Self-Testing during the Transition to the Endemic Phase in Malaysia – A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ng Diana-Leh-Ching , Jamalludin Mohd Amirulikhmar Bin , Gan Xhi-Yan , Ng Siew-Yoong , Rasidin Muhammad Zulhusni Bin Mohamad , Felix Beverlyn Anak , Jagang Nicholas M , Sindeh Woweham , Rahim Mohd Abdul Hafiz Bin Mohd Abdul , Tan Seng-Beng , Chai Chee-Shee Chai 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Malaysia entered the transition to the endemic phase of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) on 1st April 2022. This study aims to determine the public’s willingness to perform COVID-19 self-testing. Factors that influenced their willingness to engage in COVID-19 self-testing were also assessed.
Methods
A nationwide, cross-sectional, and population-based study was conducted online in Malaysia from 28th April 2023 to 4th June 2023. Individuals aged 18 years and above were enrolled through the snowball sampling method. Statistical methods used to analyse data include the Chi-Square test, independent t-test, and binary logistic regression.
Results
Out of the 1,527 responses received, 1,453 (95.2%) were included in the analysis. Of these respondents, 89.3% were willing, 4.1% were not willing, and 6.6% remained hesitant to perform COVID-19 self-testing, Women [odds ratios (OR): 2.1, 95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 1.44–3.00, p < 0.001], individuals with tertiary education (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.32–3.26, p = 0.002), those vaccinated against COVID-19 (OR: 8.1, 95% CI: 2.63–24.82, p < 0.001), and individuals with prior experience of COVID-19 self-testing (OR: 4.2, 95% CI: 2.84–6.12, p < 0.001) showed a significantly higher willingness to engage in self-testing. The common reasons given by those willing to perform COVID-19 self-testing included being able to self-isolate (99.0%) and seek treatment (96.3%) earlier if they tested positive for COVID-19. The common reasons against COVID-19 self-testing included the belief that COVID-19 is equivalent to the common flu (91.7%) and having received the COVID-19 vaccine (78.3%). The isolation policy for COVID-19 was the most significant consideration for those who were still hesitant (85.4%).
Conclusions
The public exhibited a high willingness to perform COVID-19 self-testing during the transition to the endemic phase in Malaysia. Future strategies to promote COVID-19 self-testing uptake in Malaysia should focus on vulnerable groups, address the common concerns among those hesitant and reluctant, and highlight the advantages of self-testing.
Soli-enabled Noncontact Heart Rate Detection for Sleep and Meditation Tracking
Authors: Xu Luzhou , Lien Jaime , Li Haiguang , Gillian Nicholas , Nongpiur Rajeev , Li Jihan , Zhang Qian , Cui Jian , Jorgensen David , Bernstein Adam , Bedal Lauren , Hayashi Eiji , Yamanaka Jin , Lee Alex , Wang Jian , Shin D , Poupyrev Ivan , Thormundsson Trausti , Pathak Anupam , Patel Shwetak 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Heart rate (HR) is a crucial physiological signal that can be used to monitor health and fitness. Traditional methods for measuring HR require wearable devices, which can be inconvenient or uncomfortable, especially during sleep and meditation. Noncontact HR detection methods employing microwave radar can be a promising alternative. However, the existing approaches in the literature usually use high-gain antennas and require the sensor to face the user’s chest or back, making them difficult to integrate into a portable device and unsuitable for sleep and meditation tracking applications. This study presents a novel approach for noncontact HR detection using a miniaturized Soli radar chip embedded in a portable device (Google Nest Hub). The chip has a 6.5 mm × 5 mm × 0.9 mm dimension and can be easily integrated into various devices. The proposed approach utilizes advanced signal processing and machine learning techniques to extract HRs from radar signals. The approach is validated on a sleep dataset (62 users, 498 hours) and a meditation dataset (114 users, 1131 minutes). The approach achieves a mean absolute error (MAE) of 1.69 bpm and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 2.67% on the sleep dataset. On the meditation dataset, the approach achieves an MAE of 1.05 bpm and a MAPE of 1.56%. The recall rates for the two datasets are 88.53% and 98.16%, respectively. This study represents the first application of the noncontact HR detection technology to sleep and meditation tracking, offering a promising alternative to wearable devices for HR monitoring during sleep and meditation.
Delving into the Life Experiences of School-aged Children Afflicted by Tethered spinal cord syndrome: An Interpretative Qualitative Study
Authors: Lin Nan , Xiang Yujun , Li Jiahuan , Wang Dan , Xu Hongzhen 
Published: July 2023

AbstractTethered cord syndrome in pediatric patients manifests as an intricate interplay of complications permeating educational, familial, and societal contexts, underscoring the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of their subjective emotional states and life experiences. However, the healthcare sector often exhibits a skewed focus on the physical functionality of the afflicted pediatric patients throughout their treatment and post-treatment phases, frequently neglecting the emotional dimensions of their experience. As such, there is a pressing need to enhance our understanding of the lived experiences and perceptions of pediatric patients with tethered cord syndrome upon their reintroduction into familial, educational, and broader societal environments post-discharge. This study was executed at the Children's Hospital in Zhejiang, incorporating twelve tethered cord syndrome-affected participants aged between 8 to 15 years. An interpretative qualitative research design was employed, employing semi-structured interviews as the chief data acquisition tool. Reflexive thematic analysis was utilized for data evaluation, enabling an exhaustive scrutiny of emerging thematic patterns. Four major themes (and seven sub-themes) were identified from the findings: (1) growing pains (a shameful secret, distance between ideal and reality); (2) inappropriate expressions of familial affection (knowing is not understanding, unspeakable guilt); (3) social estrangement (uncomfortable distinctions, familiar stranger); (4) striving for independence and consistency. Pediatric patients with tethered cord syndrome display intrinsic sensitivity and face complexities in personal growth, familial relationships, and social interactions. Their aspirations revolve around future independence and freedom, similar to their developmentally typical counterparts. The findings of this study offer critical insights for healthcare providers, families, and educators, fostering a deeper comprehension of the experiences and challenges faced by children with tethered cord syndrome. Furthermore, the results serve as a foundation for potential interventions promoting self-expression and enabling these patients to perceive life as a meaningful and positive journey.
Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic internal fixation system delays intervertebral disc degeneration at adjacent segments and improves spinal sagittal imbalance: A retrospective single-centre clinical study with a 5-year follow-up
Authors: Gao Wenxin , Chen Yungang , Liu Guoyan , Hou pengfei , Guo cunliang , yang xu , Wang Xiaoying , hao yanke 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Background: The Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic internal fixation system shows good short-term effects in the treatment of lumbar degenerative diseases, but there are few long-term follow-up studies, especially for recovery of sagittal balance.
Materials and Methods: Fifty patients with lumbar degenerative diseases treated from January 2016 to October 2017 were retrospectively analysed: 25 patients treated with Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic internal fixation system (Waveflex group) and 25 patients treated with double-segment PLIF (PLIF group). Clinical efficacy was evaluated by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Imaging data before surgery and at 3 months, 1 year, and 5 years postoperatively was used for imaging indicator assessment. Local disc degeneration of the cephalic adjacent segment (including disc height index (DHI), intervertebral foramen height (IFH), and range of motion (ROM)) and overall spinal motor function (including lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and |PI-LL|) were analysed.
Results: Regarding clinical efficacy, comparison of VAS and ODI scores between the Waveflex and PLIF groups showed no significant preoperative or postoperative differences. The comparison of the objective imaging indicators showed no significant differences in the DHI, IFH, LL, |PI-LL|, and SS values between the Waveflex and PLIF groups preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively (P>0.05). These values were significantly different at 1 and 5 years postoperatively (P＜0.05), and the Waveflex group showed better ROM values than those of the PLIF group (P＜0.05). PI values were not significantly different between the groups, but PT showed a significant improvement in the Waveflex group 5 years postoperatively (P＜0.05).
Conclusion: The Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic fixation system can effectively reduce the probability of intervertebral disc degeneration in upper adjacent segments. Simultaneously, patients in the Waveflex group showed postoperative improvements in LL, spinal sagittal imbalance, and quality of life.
Acute exposure of microwave impairs attention process by activating microglial inflammation
Authors: Jiang Shaofei , Ma Yingping , Shi Yuan , Zou Yong , Yang Zhenqi , Zhi Weijia , Zhao Zhe , Shen Wei , Chen Liping , Wu Yan , Wang Lifeng , Hu Xiangjun , Wu Haitao 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Attention provides the foundation for cognitions, which was shown to be affected by microwave (MW) radiation. With the ubiquitous of microwaves, public concerns regarding the impact of MW radiation on attention has hence been increased. Our study aims to investigate the potential effect and mechanism of acute microwave exposure on attention.
Results
We identified obvious impairment of attention in mice by the five-choice serial reaction time (5-CSRT) task. Proteomic analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed neuroinflammation and microglial activation potentially due to acute MW exposure. Moreover, biochemical analysis further confirmed microglial activation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice subjected to acute MW exposure. Finally, minocycline, a commercially available anti-inflammatory compound, attenuated neuroinflammation, inhibited the upregulation of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR) including NR2A and NR2B, and also accelerated the attentional recovery after MW exposure.
Conclusions
We believe that microglial activation and NMDAR upregulation likely contribute to inattention induced by acute MW exposure, and we found that minocycline may be effective in preventing such process.
Individualized Treatment Decision Model for Inoperable Elderly Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma based on Multi-Modal Data Fusion
Authors: Huang Yong , Huang Xiaoyu , Wang Anling , Chen Qiwei , Chen Gong , Ye Jingya , Wang Yaru , Qin Zhihui , Xu Kai 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
This research aimed to develop a model for individualized treatment decision-making in inoperable elderly patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) using machine learning methods and multi-modal data.
Methods
A total of 169 inoperable elderly ESCC patients aged 65 or older who underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) or radiotherapy (RT) were included. Multi-task learning models were created using machine learning techniques to analyze multi-modal data, including pre-treatment CT images, clinical information, and blood test results. Nomograms were constructed to predict the objective response rate (ORR) and progression-free survival (PFS) for different treatment strategies. Optimal treatment plans were recommended based on the nomograms. Patients were stratified into high-risk and low-risk groups using the nomograms, and survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves.
Results
The identified risk factors influencing ORR were histologic grade (HG), T stage and three radiomic features including original shape elongation, first-order skewness and original shape flatness, while risk factors influencing PFS included BMI, HG and three radiomic features including high gray-level run emphasis, first-order minimum and first-order skewness. These risk factors were incorporated into the nomograms as independent predictive factors. PFS was substantially different between the low-risk group (total score ≤ 110) and the high-risk group (total score > 110) according to Kaplan–Meier curves (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
The developed predictive models for ORR and PFS in inoperable elderly ESCC patients provide valuable insights for predicting treatment efficacy and prognosis. The nomograms enable personalized treatment decision-making and can guide optimal treatment plans for inoperable elderly ESCC patients.
The Moderating Effects of Narcissism on the Relationship between Motivation, Peer Interaction, and Social Loafing in Physical Education: Implications for Promoting Positive Behavior
Authors: Xi Xiao-Lei , Lin Xin-Mao , Huang Mei-Yao , Shih Kuo-Tung 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
This study explores the positive effects of motivation and peer interaction on social loafing in the context of physical education (PE) while considering the moderating role of narcissism. Three hundred and fifty-one college students were recruited and administered the Motivation in PE Scale, Peer Interaction in PE Scale, Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and Physical Fitness Test. The hierarchical regression analysis found that narcissism moderated the association between motivation, peer interaction, and RPE after controlling variables of socio-demographic characteristics and physical fitness. It can thus be concluded that narcissism might regulate the positive effect of motivation and peer interaction on social loafing. Our findings suggested that motivation and peer interaction could enhance narcissists who desire to garner admiration during the working of a group task in PE as one of the strategies to decrease their social loafing and could promote good physical health as social responsibility.
Genetics of Smoking and Risk of Spinal Degenerative Diseases: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Shao Jiashen , Zhang Huixin , Tan Haining , Zhao Hengqiang , Wu Zhihong , Fei Qi 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background: The causal association of smoking in spinal degenerative diseases (SDD) remains uncertain. The main objective of this study was to investigate the causal association between genetic susceptibility of smoking and degenerative spinal disorders by using Mendelian randomization (MR).
Materials and methods: Summary statistics for SDD were obtained from the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS), including 20,001 intervertebral disc degenerative disease (IVDD) cases, 8,915 sciatica cases, 13,178 low back pain (LBP) cases, and 164,682 controls. Instrumental variables (IVs) and genetic association estimates for smoking initiation were obtained from the Consortium for the Sequencing to Alcohol and Nicotine Use's (GSCAN) GWAS study that included 607,291 individuals of European ancestry. MR analyses were performed using the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method, supplemented with a weighted median method. Potential pleiotropy was assessed using MR-Egger regression. A further sensitivity analysis was performed to test the robustness of the association.
Results: In inverse-variance–weighted MR analysis, the genetic susceptibility to smoking initiation was associated with increased risk of IVDD (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.07-1.39; P = 3.6 × 10−16), sciatica (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.03-1.46; P = 0.02), and LBP (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.15-1.56; P = 0.04). The results of the multivariate MR analysis showed that the point estimates of the association between smoking and SDD were not attenuated after accounting for the risk factors associated with SDD (IVDD: OR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.03-1.45]; P < 0.05; LBP: OR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.08-1.58]; P < 0.01). However, a significant causal association between smoking and sciatica was not identified in multivariate MR (Sciatica: OR, 1.06 [95% CI, 0.84-1.28]; P = 0.599).
Conclusion: These results support a causal association between smoking and increased risk of SDD. Further studies are needed to explain the potential mechanisms of smoking in the development of SDD.
Problems and Possibilities of Technology-Dependent Children with Long-term Home Ventilation: 10 Years of Implementation of Home Medical Care in Japan
Authors: Maeda Hirotoshi , Tomomatsu Ikuko , Iikura Izumi , Ikari Masahiro , Kondo Youichi , Yamamoto Miyuki , Tamura Masanori 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Purpose
Since the establishment of Japan’s publicly-supported pediatric home medical care (PHMC) system in 2012, the number of technology-dependent children (TDC) who are supported by PHMC, particularly with respiratory devices, keeps increasing. We aimed to study the problems of the care-burden of families who use this system in relation to TDC’s mobility and recovery process, with a focus on respiratory supports.
Methods
Questionnaire survey data were collected from 1,162 caregivers of TDC from 2018 to 2020. In each medical procedure, the correlation of TDC’s motor function level with care burden (Care Time (CT) & Self-rated Care Burden (SCB)) was analyzed by using correlation analysis. In 15 households caregivers’ activities were monitored to elucidate the problems of the care objectively. The follow-up study was conducted on a subpopulation whose medical records were accessible.
Results
Analysis of 418 cases showed that care-burden increased with improvements in the children’s motor ability in tracheostomy, or remained the same in other procedures. A follow-up study in 262 cases showed that these TDC with high mobility aged 1–8 had a high potential to be weaned from medical devices.
Conclusion
TDC who gain motor ability during the course of PHMC has more potential to be released from their respiratory devices and for better daily life. However, when they become mobile, social support is cut off despite the increase in care-burden for mobile TDC. It is important to maintain social support for TDC on the recovering mobile stage.
Baseline reproductive and sexual health knowledge among undergraduate students in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Jain Kunal , Jain Esha , Rai Karnvir , Wilson Lucy , Blachman-Braun Ruben , Patel Premal 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Many undergraduate students are newly sexually active adults with unsafe sexual practices. While sexual education curriculums exist, students’ understanding of reproductive and sexual health is unknown. We sought to assess undergraduate students' knowledge and attitudes on reproductive and sexual health. Our aim was to identify variables associated with knowledge deficiencies.

A novel, cross-sectional questionnaire assessing knowledge and attitudes on reproductive and sexual health was distributed online from January to March 2021 to undergraduate students at two universities. Local ethics board approval was obtained, participation was voluntary, and data was anonymized. Categorical variables and continuous variables were analyzed with Chi-squared tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests, respectively. Univariable and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis were used to assess variables associated with knowledge differences.

There were 309 respondents out of approximately 28,816 possible undergraduate students (n=309, response rate 1.1%). There were significant differences in knowledge scores with age (p=0.012), location of high school completion (p=0.004), and university attended (p=0.044). On multivariate analysis, higher knowledge scores were associated with identifying as female (male OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.87; p=0.021), older age (age ≥22 years OR: 4.07, 95% CI: 1.35–12.26; p=0.012), and university attended (University of Manitoba OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.11–3.49; p=0.021). On subgroup analysis, family SES was associated with higher sexually transmitted infection (STI) knowledge scores (OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.07–4.48; p=0.032). Few felt that their post-secondary education on contraception/family planning (26.2%), STIs (34.6%), and infertility (4.5%) was adequate.

Undergraduate students face unique barriers in obtaining adequate reproductive and sexual health knowledge. In particular, younger males who attend smaller universities, and possibly those who are from lower SES, may be at greater risk of negative outcomes. We highlight the need for improved access to education and supports to assist undergraduate students in making more informed decisions.