mdpi-ai/citelens huggingface dataset:
Qualitative insights from a randomized clinical trial of a mother–child emotional preparation program for preschool-aged children
Field: PSYCHOLOGY

Background: Early life stress and adversity conveys risk for emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders. To address this risk in the preschool population, Mother–Child Emotional Preparation (MCEP) was tested as an in-school dyadic intervention for facilitating mother–child emotional connection through mother–child calming cycles. In a computer-generated block randomized controlled trial enrolling preschool-aged children and their mothers, in partnership with an early childhood learning center, we at Columbia University Irving Medical Center tested effects of MCEP across multiple domains. Within this RCT we designed a qualitative sub-study to understand how MCEP aligns with calming cycle theory and its impact on mothers and the mother–child relationship. Methods: A qualitative researcher observed 14 group MCEP sessions consisting of nurture specialists facilitating reciprocal calming interactions through shared emotional expression between mothers and their preschool-aged children. We conducted two waves of participant interviews in English or Spanish, per participant preference. Participants (n = 8) were majority Hispanic at or below the federal poverty level. Group session observations were coded and analyzed for frequency, co-occurrence, variance by session, and alignment with calming cycle theory, incorporating demographic variables and attendance. Interview transcripts were translated from Spanish to English if needed, then coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Qualitative analysis revealed mothers’ experiences of MCEP. Data demonstrated that calming position and emotional expression were mutually supportive, and that barriers to connection were calming cycle entry-points, not barriers. At the group level, supported by nurture specialists, fellow participants helped each other progress through calming cycles. Moreover, MCEP adapted to meet individual dyad needs, and mothers described its far-reaching impact. Conclusions: Qualitative methods show that MCEP helps mother–child dyads emotionally connect through the calming cycle and fills a gap in early childhood education services. This study generated insights for quantitative studies and suggested implications for MCEP dissemination. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03908268, Registered April 9, 2019—Retrospectively registered.
High expression of NOLC1 as an independent prognostic factor for survival in patients with colorectal cancer
Field: ONCOLOGY

Background As a phosphorylated protein, NOLC1 is mainly located in the nucleus and is highly expressed in a variety of tumors, participating in the regulation of cell proliferation and aging. This study further investigated the role of NOLC1 in colorectal cancer tumors, aiming to provide sufficient scientific evidence for the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer. Methods We used TCGA, GEO, TNMplot, GEPIA, and other databases to explore the expression level of NOLC1 in colorectal cancer patients, as well as the correlation between the clinical characteristics of colorectal cancer patients and their expression, and conducted the prognostic analysis. Immunohistofluorescence (IHF) staining verified the analytical results. Subsequently, KEGG and GO enrichment analysis was used to identify the potential molecular mechanism of NOLC1 promoting the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer. The influence of NOLC1 expression on the immune microenvironment of colorectal cancer patients was further investigated using the TIMER database. GDSC database analysis was used to screen out possible anti-colorectal cancer drugs against NOLC1. Finally, we demonstrated the effect of NOLC1 on the activity and migration of colorectal cancer cells by Edu Cell proliferation assay and Wound Healing assay in vitro. Results Our results suggest that NOLC1 is overexpressed in colorectal cancer, and that overexpression of NOLC1 is associated with relevant clinical features. NOLC1, as an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of colorectal cancer patients, can lead to a poor prognosis of colorectal cancer. In addition, NOLC1 may be associated with MCM10, HELLS, NOC3L, and other genes through participating in Wnt signaling pathways and jointly regulate the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer under the influence of the tumor microenvironment and many other influencing factors. Related to NOLC1: Selumetinib, Imatinib, and targeted drugs such as Lapatinib have potential value in the clinical application of colorectal cancer. NOLC1 enhances the proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer cells. Conclusions High expression of NOLC1 as an independent prognostic factor for survival in patients with colorectal cancer. NOLC1 enhances the proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer cells. Further studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm the role of NOLC1 in the development and progression of colorectal cancer.
Emotions Matter: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Detection and Classification of Students’ Emotions in STEM during Online Learning
Field: EDUCATION

In recent years, the rapid growth of online learning has highlighted the need for effective methods to monitor and improve student experiences. Emotions play a crucial role in shaping students’ engagement, motivation, and satisfaction in online learning environments, particularly in complex STEM subjects. In this context, sentiment analysis has emerged as a promising tool to detect and classify emotions expressed in textual and visual forms. This study offers an extensive literature review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) technique on the role of sentiment analysis in student satisfaction and online learning in STEM subjects. The review analyses the applicability, challenges, and limitations of text- and facial-based sentiment analysis techniques in educational settings by reviewing 57 peer-reviewed research articles out of 236 articles, published between 2015 and 2023, initially identified through a comprehensive search strategy. Through an extensive search and scrutiny process, these articles were selected based on their relevance and contribution to the topic. The review’s findings indicate that sentiment analysis holds significant potential for improving student experiences, encouraging personalised learning, and promoting satisfaction in the online learning environment. Educators and administrators can gain valuable insights into students’ emotions and perceptions by employing computational techniques to analyse and interpret emotions expressed in text and facial expressions. However, the review also identifies several challenges and limitations associated with sentiment analysis in educational settings. These challenges include the need for accurate emotion detection and interpretation, addressing cultural and linguistic variations, ensuring data privacy and ethics, and a reliance on high-quality data sources. Despite these challenges, the review highlights the immense potential of sentiment analysis in transforming online learning experiences in STEM subjects and recommends further research and development in this area.
Impacts of a COVID-19 Educational Video: Evaluation of the Influence of Race, Gender, Political Affiliation, Study Major, and Age on Vaccine Acceptance among University Students
Field: PSYCHOLOGY

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that vaccine hesitancy is an ongoing major global health threat. While vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) proves to be an effective strategy in protecting against the disease, vaccine hesitancy represents a major barrier to stopping the spread of the virus. Willingness for vaccination can be influenced by several factors, including education level and health literacy. Although several studies demonstrate the value of video educational programs in improving coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine knowledge and acceptance, no studies to date have evaluated if race, gender, and other demographic factors impact the influence of an educational video on COVID-19 vaccine knowledge and hesitancy among university students in the United States (U.S.). Aims: This study was conducted to determine the impact of an educational video on U.S. university undergraduate students’ COVID-19 vaccine perception and acceptance. It also aims to evaluate whether demographic factors affect the influence of the video. Methods: An online survey was used to measure perceived understanding and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines before and after viewing a video regarding the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccinations. The impact of demographic factors on the Video Influence Score was analyzed. Key results: After viewing the video, respondents’ (n = 285) perceived awareness and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines significantly increased (p < 0.05). In addition, gender, political party affiliation, age, study major, and influenza vaccination history did not significantly impact the Video Influence Score (p > 0.05). However, African American/Black respondents (3.81 ± 4.24) were significantly more influenced by the video compared to respondents of other races (p < 0.05), such as White/Caucasian (1.91 ± 3.75), Hispanic/Latino (0.17 ± 3.67), Asian (0.29 ± 1.53), and Indigenous American (0.64 ± 2.52). Conclusions: This study suggests the potential impact of an educational video on COVID-19 vaccine perception and acceptance among university students. Despite limitations such as a modest survey response rate, this study provides valuable insight concerning the influential factors affecting vaccine acceptance in diverse student populations. Future studies are warranted to explore how student response to vaccine educational videos may vary depending on students’ racial and cultural backgrounds. Implications: A targeted educational video to promote vaccine acceptance is a valuable tool for public health campaigns to combat vaccine hesitancy. The study also highlights the importance of tailoring interventions to specific demographic groups such as considering racial factors to maximize the impact of educational interventions on vaccine attitudes.
Treatment of Clival Chordomas: A 20-Year Experience and Systematic Literature Review
Field: ONCOLOGY

Clival chordomas are rare but aggressive skull base tumors that pose significant treatment challenges and portend dismal prognosis. The aim of this study was to highlight the advantages and limitations of available treatments, to furnish prognostic indicators, and to shed light on novel therapeutic strategies. We conducted a retrospective study of clival chordomas that were surgically treated at our institution from 2003 to 2022; for comparison purposes, we provided a systematic review of published surgical series and, finally, we reviewed the most recent advancements in molecular research. A total of 42 patients underwent 85 surgeries; median follow-up was 15.8 years, overall survival rate was 49.9% at 10 years; meanwhile, progression-free survival was 26.6% at 10 years. A significantly improved survival was observed in younger patients (<50 years), in tumors with Ki67 ≤ 5% and when adjuvant radiotherapy was performed. To conclude, clival chordomas are aggressive tumors in which surgery and radiotherapy play a fundamental role while molecular targeted drugs still have an ancillary position. Recognizing risk factors for recurrence and performing a molecular characterization of more aggressive lesions may be the key to future effective treatment.
Validity, acceptability, and procedural issues of selection methods for graduate study admissions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics: a mapping review
Field: EDUCATION

This review presents the first comprehensive synthesis of available research on selection methods for STEM graduate study admissions. Ten categories of graduate selection methods emerged. Each category was critically appraised against the following evaluative quality principles: predictive validity and reliability, acceptability, procedural issues, and cost-effectiveness. The findings advance the field of graduate selective admissions by (a) detecting selection methods and study success dimensions that are specific for STEM admissions, (b) including research evidence both on cognitive and noncognitive selection methods, and (c) showing the importance of accounting for all four evaluative quality principles in practice. Overall, this synthesis allows admissions committees to choose which selection methods to use and which essential aspects of their implementation to account for.
The role of media in influencing students’ STEM career interest
Field: EDUCATION

Background: Digital media are pervasive in the lives of young people and provide opportunities for them to learn about STEM. Multiple theories argue that the STEM media environment may shape how youth see a STEM career in their future. Yet, little is known about how pre-college digital media consumption may be related to students’ STEM career interest at the beginning of college. The wide variety of STEM media also raises the question of potentially different effects and pathways by media type. In this study, we collected a nationally representative sample of more than 15,000 students in their first year in U.S. colleges and universities. We asked about their career interests at the beginning of college and also asked them to retrospectively report their STEM media consumption during high school. Results: We found that watching STEM-related TV and online videos, as well as playing STEM-related video games during high school, were positively associated with students’ STEM career interests at the beginning of college. However, we also found that STEM media consumption did not impact directly on STEM career interest, but acted through two intermediaries: STEM identity (I and others see me as a STEM person) and three personal career outcome expectations: a high interest in self-development (enhancement and use of talents), and low interests in material status (money, fame, power) and in interpersonal relationships (helping, and working with, other people). Conclusions: This study finds that STEM media have a significant effect in fostering STEM career interest, with most of the effect coming from STEM TV, STEM video viewing, and STEM video games. The effect is mediated mainly through students’ identity and, to a lesser extent, through personal values, such as self-development, material, and interpersonal relationship values. This study suggests that media communication should be mindful of how different platforms may deliver nuanced and varied messages of what STEM careers may afford and who can succeed in STEM.
The Role and Motivation of Pre-Service Teacher (PST) Mentors from Pro-Social to Cognitive-Effective Perspectives
Field: EDUCATION

The purpose of this quantitative descriptive study is to shed light on the driving forces of the mentor’s positions in teacher training processes in Israel. The research is based on an exploratory cross-sectional study which included 170 preservice teacher mentors in the north of Israel. The mentoring position, despite its importance, is often unappreciated, even by the mentors themselves. It is barely rewarded, in money, status, or prestige. The current study focuses on the internal motivation of mentors for choosing to serve in this role in addition to their main role as classroom teachers. In this regard, the theory of cognitive-effective perspective can help us to understand the reasons behind these motivations. Our findings indicate that mentors exhibit internal motivation from the pro-social and cognitive-effective perspectives. The average score for attitudes was M = 2.92 (SD ± 0.42). The total score was higher for the cognitive components than for the effective ones (M = 2.98, SD ± 0.44, and M = 2.85, SD ± 0.52, respectively). The main motivations of the mentors were based on their strong desire to improve the level of teaching in Israel. Contributing to the future of education was a dominant part of their personal educational philosophy. These insights depict the mentor as a pillar of the teacher training community in Israel. Our findings also indicate that, while a supportive school climate and autonomy in the mentor’s role are factors that promote mentoring practices, a lack of theoretical knowledge about teacher training and a lack of clarity about the mentors’ responsibilities are factors that hinder such practices. It is important to address these factors in order to enhance the desirable variables while decreasing the undesirable ones, in order to translate educational philosophy into stable and sustainable improved teacher training processes.
Prevalence of mutations in common tumour types in Northern England and comparable utility of national and international Trial Finders
Field: ONCOLOGY

Purpose: Tumour genomic profiling is of increasing importance in early phase trials to match patients to targeted therapeutics. Mutations vary by demographic group; however, regional differences are not characterised. This was investigated by comparing mutation prevalence for common cancers presenting to Newcastle Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre (ECMC) to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and utility of trial matching modalities. Methods: Detailed clinicogenomic data were obtained for patients presenting September 2017–December 2020. Prevalence of mutations in lung, colorectal, breast and prostate cancer was compared to TCGA GDC Data Portal. Experimental Cancer (EC) Trial Finder utility in matching trials was compared to a Molecular Tumour Board (MTB) and commercial sequencing reports. Results: Of 311 patients with advanced cancer, this consisted of lung (n = 131, 42.1%), colorectal (n = 44, 14.1%), breast (n = 36, 11.6%) and prostate (n = 18, 5.6%). More than one mutation was identified in the majority (n = 260, 84%). Significant prevalence differences compared to TCGA were identified, including a high prevalence of EGFR in lung (P = 0.001); RB1 in breast (P = 0.0002); and multiple mutations in prostate cancer. EC Trial Finder demonstrated significantly different utility than sequencing reports in identifying trials (P = 0.007). Conclusions: Regional differences in mutations may exist with advanced stage accounting for prevalence of specific mutations. A national Trial Finder shows utility in finding targeted trials whilst commercial sequencing reports may over-report ‘actionable’ mutations. Understanding local prevalence and trial availability could increase enrolment onto matched early phase trials.
Salvage High-Dose-Rate Interventional Radiotherapy (Brachytherapy) Combined with Surgery for Regionally Relapsed Head and Neck Cancers
Field: ONCOLOGY

(1) Background: to report on the use of high-dose-rate (HDR) interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy, IRT) as a salvage treatment for patients with regionally relapsed head and neck cancers. (2) Methods: A retrospective study of 60 patients treated with HDR-IRT for loco-regionally relapsed head and neck cancers at our institution (2016–2020). Treatment procedure, results, and related toxicities were collected. Local and overall survival outcomes were analyzed. (3) Results: The median follow-up was 22.4 months. Twenty-nine (48.3%) patients had locoregional recurrences with a median time of 28.9 months. The local-recurrence free-survival was 88.1% and 37.3% at 3 years and 5 years. At the last follow-up, 21 patients were alive and the median time to death was 24 months. The overall survival was 39.2% and 16.6% at 3 years and 5 years. Collectively, there were 28 events of grade ≥ 3 late toxicities recorded in 21 patients (35%). (4) Conclusions: Salvage HDR-IRT combined with surgery offers a second-line curative treatment option for regionally relapsed head and neck cancers with acceptable outcomes and toxicities.
Negative Survival Impact of Occult Lymph Node Involvement in Small HER2-Positive Early Breast Cancer Treated by Up-Front Surgery
Field: ONCOLOGY

(1) Background: The independent negative prognostic value of isolated tumor cells or micro-metastases in axillary lymph nodes has been established in triple-negative breast cancers (BC). However, the prognostic significance of pN0(i+) or pN1mi in HER2-positive BCs treated by primary surgery remains unexplored. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the impact of pN0(i+) or pN1mi in HER2-positive BC patients undergoing up-front surgery on their outcomes. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 23,650 patients treated in 13 French cancer centers from 1991 to 2013. pN status was categorized as pN0, pN0(i+), pN1mi, and pNmacro. The effect of pN0(i+) or pN1mi on outcomes was investigated both in the entire cohort of patients and in pT1a-b tumors. (3) Results: Of 1771 HER2-positive BC patients included, pN status distributed as follows: 1047 pN0 (59.1%), 60 pN0(i+) (3.4%), 118 pN1mi (6.7%), and 546 pN1 macro-metastases (30.8%). pN status was significantly associated with sentinel lymph node biopsy, axillary lymph node dissection, age, ER status, tumor grade, and size, lymphovascular invasion, adjuvant systemic therapy (ACt), and radiation therapy. With 61 months median follow-up (mean 63.2; CI 95% 61.5–64.9), only pN1 with macro-metastases was independently associated with a negative impact on overall, disease-free, recurrence-free, and metastasis-free survivals in multivariate analysis. In the pT1a-b subgroup including 474 patients, RFS was significantly decreased in multivariate analysis for pT1b BC without ACt (HR 2.365, 1.04–5.36, p = 0.039) and for pN0(i+)/pN1mi patients (HR 2.518, 1.03–6.14, p = 0.042). (4) Conclusions: Survival outcomes were not adversely affected by pN0(i+) and pN1mi in patients with HER2-positive BC. However, in the case of pT1a-b HER2-positive BC, a negative impact on RFS was observed specifically for patients with pN0(i+) and pN1mi diseases, particularly among those with pT1b tumors without ACt. Our findings highlight the importance of considering the pN0(i+) and pN1mi status in the decision-making process when discussing trastuzumab-based ACt for these patients.
Body-Related Attentional Bias in Adolescents Affected by Idiopathic Scoliosis
Field: PSYCHOLOGY

Attentional biases toward body-related information increase body dissatisfaction. This can lead at-risk populations to develop psychopathologies. This phenomenon has not been extensively studied in girls affected by idiopathic scoliosis. This work aimed to study the cognitive processes that could contribute to the worsening and maintaining of body image disorders in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Twenty-eight girls were recruited and tested for body image dissatisfaction through the Scoliosis-Research-Society-22-revised (SRS-22r) questionnaire. Attentional biases towards disease-related body parts were assessed using a computerized visual match-to-sample task: girls were asked to answer as fast and accurately as possible to find the picture matching a target by pressing a button on a computer keyboard. Reaction times (RTs) and accuracy were collected as outcome variables and compared within and between groups and conditions. Lower scores in SRS-22r self-image, function, and total score were observed in scoliosis compared to the control group (p-value < 0.01). Faster response times (p-value = 0.02) and higher accuracy (p-value = 0.02) were detected in the scoliosis group when processing shoulders and backs (i.e., disease-relevant body parts). A self-body advantage effect emerged in the scoliosis group, showing higher accuracy when answering self-body stimuli compared to others’ bodies stimuli (p-value = 0.04). These results provide evidence of body image dissatisfaction and attentional bias towards disease-relevant body parts in girls with scoliosis, requiring clinical attention as highly predisposing to psychopathologies.