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Comparative analysis of reproductive health knowledge and practices of female college students in Xinjiang medical and non-medical majors in 2023

Mental health concerns and needs of international students in higher education settings: A scoping review protocol

Introduction The transition to higher education is a significant milestone for many individuals; however, it also brings new stressors and challenges, particularly for international students adjusting to life in a foreign country. Despite the increasing diversity of student populations globally, there remains a gap in existing reviews that capture the full scope of international student mental health concerns and needs. Existing reviews on the mental health and psychosocial adjustment of international students often concentrate on acculturation stress, thus overlooking other mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety, as well as positive mental health experiences like increased well-being. Meanwhile, other reviews tend to focus more heavily on specific regions, such as the United States and Australia, or student populations, particularly East-Asian students. While valuable, this focus may limit our understanding of the diverse mental health experiences of international students. Objective The objective of this scoping review is to map and summarize research on international students’ mental health experiences and concerns (e.g., depression) as well as factors influencing their well-being (e.g., social support and institutional resources). Methods A search strategy guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Manual of Evidence Synthesis has been developed according to the Population, Concern, and Context (PCC) framework and will be applied to four electronic databases (i.e., MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, and CINAHL). Two reviewers will pilot the selection strategy on subsets of 10 articles until a 90% agreement rate is achieved. Once this rate is reached, a single reviewer will screen the remaining articles independently. Two reviewers will pilot data extraction on subsets of 10 included studies, after which one reviewer will proceed independently. Main findings will be presented through descriptive statistics, using tables and figures. Expected contributions This scoping review will assess existing literature on the mental health needs and experiences of international students, highlighting overlooked issues, such as challenges beyond acculturation stress and the experiences of underrepresented student populations, including those studying outside of Western countries. Ultimately, the findings may identify areas for further research and inform educational institutions and mental health professionals in developing support resources that can effectively address diverse needs of international students.

Influence of bronfenbrenner ecological theory on career choices of preservice teachers of students with developmental disabilities

Bioinformatics analysis to explore biomarkers and mechanisms of action associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress and ferroptosis in Parkinson’s disease

Objective It has been demonstrated that Parkinson’s disease (PD) is closely associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and ferroptosis. However, the specific mechanisms underlying these associations remain unclear. Consequently, this study investigated the mechanisms connecting these factors and explored potential biomarkers for PD. Methods Data for PD and ERS, as well as information on ferroptosis, were sourced from public databases and relevant literature. Candidate genes were identified through differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Further investigations included functional enrichment analysis, the construction of a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and the examination of related genes. Subsequently, biomarkers were validated using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression algorithm. Additionally, correlations among biomarkers, gene set enrichment analysis, chromosomal and subcellular localization, immune cell infiltration, regulatory mechanisms, and drug predictions were conducted. Results Initially, seven candidate genes were identified, predominantly associated with type II diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, five interacting associations within the PPI network and twenty related genes were identified, primarily engaged in the physical interactions pathway. Subsequently, three biomarkers were screened: N-myc downstream-regulated gene 1 (NDRG1), dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (DLD), and cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (CIRBP). A detailed analysis revealed a positive correlation between CIRBP and DLD, while NDRG1 exhibited a negative correlation with DLD; all three biomarkers were chiefly enriched in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and PD. NDRG1 is located on chromosome 8, DLD on chromosome 7, and CIRBP on chromosome 19, with all three primarily localized in the nucleus. A total of 31 differential immune cells were identified between the disease and control groups, with neurons representing the highest proportion and the most significant negative correlation observed between DLD and pro B-cells. The interactions involving NORAD-hsa-miR-1277-5p-DLD, NEAT1-hsa-miR-128-3p-CIRBP, and XIST-hsa-miR-3173-5p-NDRG1 were found to be pivotal. Additionally, these biomarkers were regulated by 15 common transcription factors. Finally, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, pyruvic acid, nitric oxide, and phosphates were predicted as potential co-targeted therapeutic agents. Conclusions NDRG1, DLD, and CIRBP were identified as biomarkers for PD, thereby opening new avenues for elucidating disease mechanisms, facilitating early diagnosis, and identifying potential therapeutic targets.

Band gap and dispersion characteristics of phononic crystal microchannels under fluid solid coupling

Predictors of elevated carotid intima-media thickness as a surrogate marker for cardiovascular disease in pediatric chronic kidney disease

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in its late stages, carries significant morbidity and mortality, often due to cardiovascular problems. Mortality rates for children with CKD and cardiovascular disorders remain high even in high-income countries. Elevated carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is considered a marker for vascular thickness and future cardiovascular events in younger populations. This study aimed to determine predictors of cardiovascular events in pediatric patients with CKD with CIMT as a surrogate marker. Materials and methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted on children aged 2–18 years with CKD at Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from September 1st 2022–31st December 2023. We used multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictors at diagnosis (e.g., age, male sex, obesity, CKD stage, and hypertension) associated with elevated CIMT (outcome), measured at least three months post-diagnosis as a proxy for cardiovascular risk. Results A total of 71 patients were recruited, 35 (49.3%) of whom were male, and the median age (range) was 14.67 years (4.6–18.8). Twenty-four children (33.8%) had increased vascular thickness. In the multivariate analysis, male sex was independently associated with increased vascular thickness with an adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) of 2.911 (1.012–8.371, p = 0.047). Conclusion Approximately one in three children with CKD experienced increased vascular thickness. Male was an independent predictor for increased vascular thickness in children with CKD.

Efficient node deployment for enhancing coverage and connectivity in Wireless Sensor Networks

A cross-country analysis of feasible income equality using the sigmoid function and the Boltzmann distribution

This study uses the sigmoid function in combination with the Boltzmann distribution, originally developed by Park and Kim (2021), in order to calculate the optimal income distribution that represents feasible income equality and maximizes total social welfare. Feasible income equality refers to optimal income distribution that is realistically attainable. By employing the data on quintile income shares and the Gini index of 71 countries in 2021 from the World Bank, the results indicate that the optimal income distributions representing feasible income equality, the corresponding values of the Gini index, and the respective shapes of the Lorenz curves of 71 countries are somewhat similar to each other. These results confirm Park and Kim (2021)’s conjecture in that the universal feasible equality line, as depicted by the Lorenz curve, can be identified and applied across multiple countries, potentially serving as a quantitative benchmark. In addition, this study finds that the correlations between the quality of economic and political institutions and the difference between actual and optimal income distributions are negative, suggesting that the better the quality of economic and political institutions is, the closer the gap between actual and optimal income distributions representing feasible income equality. Furthermore, this study estimates the relationship between actual quintile income shares and optimal quintile income shares representing feasible income equality of 71 countries which can be conveniently used to find any approximate level of feasible income share for a particular level of actual income share. Given that high income inequality is associated with health, social, economic, and environmental problems, the overall findings from this study could be useful for designing income redistributive policies and measures.

Extraction and characterization of natural fibers from Muntingia calabura twigs for sustainable applications

In vitro study of probiotic Lactobacillus helveticus: Antibacterial effects on Porphyromonas gingivalis

Probiotics are gaining attention for their benefits as a supplement to improve oral health. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial effect of the probiotic Lactobacillus helveticus against Porphyromonas gingivalis, a significant pathogen in periodontal diseases. Antibacterial susceptibility was assessed using the well diffusion assay, with 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX) served as the positive control. Biofilm biomass was evaluated using crystal violet staining. Cell viability in P. gingivalis treated with L. helveticus was determined using the LIVE/DEAD Baclight bacterial assay via fluorescence microscopy. Ultra-morphological alterations in these cells were further examined using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy. The results indicated that L. helveticus significantly reduced the growth of P. gingivalis. The highest concentration of 109 cells/mL achieved the most substantial inhibition in the well diffusion assay, followed by concentrations of 108 cells/mL and 107 cells/mL, which demonstrated a clear dose-dependent response. Furthermore, biofilms of P. gingivalis treated with L. helveticus exhibited a notable biomass reduction of up to 85% at the highest concentrations. LIVE/DEAD staining confirmed a decreased in cell viability among the treated populations, while FESEM analysis revealed morphological disruptions in P. gingivalis cells treated with L. helveticus. These findings suggest that L. helveticus has a potent antibacterial effect against P. gingivalis, highlighting the need for further research to identify the optimal probiotic strategies that could enhance periodontal health.

Securing and optimizing optical transmission in quantum wells using OAM and advanced modulation techniques

Gradual reputation dynamics evolve and sustain cooperation in indirect reciprocity

Humans have achieved widespread cooperation, largely sustained by mechanisms such as indirect reciprocity, which relies on reputation and social norms. People are highly motivated to maintain a good reputation, and social norms play a critical role in reputation systems by defining acceptable behavior, helping prevent exploitation by free-riders. However, there is a gap between theory and experiment in handling reputation information, with experiments often failing to capture the complexity that theoretical models propose. Here, we address two key issues: what kind of information is needed to define reputation as a social norm and the appropriate level of granularity required for reputation information to function effectively. This paper combines scenario-based experiments and evolutionary game theory to investigate the social norms individuals adopt in real-world settings, aiming to uncover the stability of these norms. Our results show that reputations should be categorized into three levels good, neutral, and bad. Results suggest gradual reputation dynamics that increase and decrease gradually due to cooperation or defection. However, a person’s reputation remains unchanged only when they defect against a bad reputation. Our experimental and theoretical results support critical insights into the dynamics of reputation and social norms within indirect reciprocity, challenging traditional binary reputational evaluations. The gradual nature of reputation updating and the use of nuanced evaluations provide a more realistic model of reputation dynamics.

Effortless 3D radio maps generation for fingerprinting-based indoor positioning system

Daraxonrasib, a pan-RAS inhibitor, selectively inhibits osteosarcomas with activated KRAS by halting AKT signaling and matrix metalloprotease activity

KRAS mutations, which induce proliferative signaling driving many human cancers, are detectable in a small subset of osteosarcoma patients. The recently developed pan-KRAS inhibitor daraxonrasib, also known as RMC-6236, is capable of targeting a wide array of KRAS mutations and shows promise against pancreatic and lung cancers. However, the efficacy and mechanisms of action of daraxonrasib in osteosarcoma (OS) remain unclear. We evaluated the effects of daraxonrasib on the viability, proliferation, and metastatic potential of wild-type and KRAS mutant OS cells. We assayed the effects of treatment on downstream targets using qPCR, immunoblotting, and activity assays to explore the underlying mechanism by which daraxonrasib selectively suppresses the metastatic potential of KRAS mutant osteosarcoma. Finally, we investigated how the increased prevalence of GTP-bound KRAS enhanced the sensitivity of KRAS wild-type osteosarcoma cells to daraxonrasib using siRNA targeting RASA1. Daraxonrasib selectively attenuated the proliferation and migratory ability of KRAS mutant HOS-143B cells without affecting KRAS wild-type controls. Additionally, daraxonrasib suppressed the expression of the matrix metalloproteases MMP9 and MMP1, which promote cell motility and metastasis. Daraxonrasib selectively inhibited the AKT/ETS1 pathway in HOS-143B cells, whereas no such effect was observed in HOS cells. HOS cells were sensitized to daraxonrasib by knocking down the GTPase-activating protein RASA1. In osteosarcoma, KRAS inhibition decreased MMP1, MMP9, and AKT/ETS1 signaling. Daraxonrasib is a promising agent for treating osteosarcoma with KRAS mutations.

Centroid growth selective clustering method for surface defect detection in silicon nitride ceramic bearing rollers

Correction: High mean corpuscular volume as a predictor of esophageal cancer: A cohort study based on the Japanese Shizuoka Kokuho Database

Community acceptance of Ivermectin mass drug administration for malaria in Southern Thailand

Abstract Thailand’s goal to eliminate malaria by 2030 faces significant challenges, in part due to inadequate vector control measures. Innovative strategies, such as mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin, have shown promise in improving vector control efforts. This study aims to assess the factors influencing the acceptance of ivermectin MDA among residents in southern Thailand. In 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted in three districts of Surat Thani Province, southern Thailand, where an ivermectin MDA program was planned. Quantitative data were collected through structured surveys administered to randomly selected household heads using a standardized questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression models were employed to identify factors associated with the reported acceptance of ivermectin MDA. A total of 391 participants were surveyed, with the majority (96.4%) expressing acceptance of the planned ivermectin MDA. Forest-related workers (aOR: 4.2, 95% CI: 1.1–16.1) and those who believed malaria could be eliminated from their villages (aOR: 9.1, 95% CI: 2.8–29.9) were more likely to exhibit higher levels of acceptance. However, according to programmatic records, only 59.0% of the 3,137 eligible individuals completed all three rounds of ivermectin MDA. Key barriers to participation included absence from the village for unspecified reasons and reluctance to take the drug, particularly in later rounds. There was a noticeable gap between reported acceptance and actual participation in the ivermectin MDA. Targeted efforts to engage forest-related workers are crucial to maintain high participation rates. Strengthening community engagement by emphasizing the risks and benefits of ivermectin, outlining safety measures, and raising awareness about malaria prevention and control are crucial for improving MDA uptake.

Malaria, urogenital schistosomiasis and co-infection and nutritional status of school children in Ondo state

Parasitic infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with malaria and schistosomiasis having the highest burden. This study investigated the prevalence of malaria, urogenital schistosomiasis, and co-infections and their impact on the nutritional status of schoolchildren in two communities in Ondo State. A total of 185 participants from Ipogun and Oke Igbo were screened for malaria and schistosomiasis infection using the ParaHit malaria rapid diagnostic test kit and urine microscopy. Anthropometric measurements were used to assess the nutritional status of the participants. In this study, a higher prevalence of malaria was recorded in Oke Igbo, with 36 individuals (57.1%), compared to 60 individuals (49.2%) in Ipogun. Urogenital schistosomiasis was also more prevalent in Oke Igbo, affecting 18 individuals (28.6%), while only 5 individuals (4.1%) were affected in Ipogun. Co-infection with both diseases was more common in Oke Igbo, with 13 cases (20.6%), compared to 4 cases (3.3%) in Ipogun. However, malnutrition rates were similar between the two communities, with 60 cases (77.9%) in Ipogun and 28 cases (75.5%) in Oke Igbo. Notably, participants with either malaria or urogenital schistosomiasis, as well as those co-infected, exhibited a higher frequency of chronic malnutrition. The likelihood of co-infection was significantly associated with gender and locality, with individuals in Oke Igbo being 0.78 times less likely to be co-infected (P = 0.00; CI = 0.09–0.49), while males were 2.19 times more likely to have co-infections (P = 0.02; CI = 1.13–4.28). This study emphasised the significant health burden posed by malaria and urogenital schistosomiasis co-infections among schoolchildren in Ondo State, highlighting the need for comprehensive health and nutritional interventions to address the challenges associated with these parasitic diseases.

Genome-wide identification of selection signatures across altitudinal gradients in dairy sheep breeds

Racial/Ethnic differences in emergency department triage assignment among visits for substance use

Background The opioid/substance use disorder (SUD) epidemic in the United States has become a public health crisis. Stigma by health care workers towards patients with SUD has been identified as a barrier to treatment. Additionally, racial inequities in wait times and service provision have been found in Emergency Departments (EDs). Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the racial/ethnic differences in severity of ED triage assignment among visits for SUD. Methods This retrospective study utilized pooled data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) from 2016−20. The dependent variable was the recorded triage level for patients with SUD. The independent variable was patient race/ethnicity. Analyses controlled for variables such as age, sex, and arrival by ambulance. Differences in triage level by race/ethnicity among visits by patients with SUD was assessed via multivariable logistic regression models. Results Of the reported 788 SUD-specific ED visits from patients with SUD, 56.0% were non-Hispanic White, 28.6% were non-Hispanic Black, 12.9% were Hispanic, and 2.5% were of another race. Visits by Black patients with SUD had 53% lower odds of being assigned to an immediate/emergent triage level compared to visits by White patients with SUD (OR=0.47, p = .025). Conclusion We found that visits by Black patients with SUD were associated with lower odds of receiving an immediate/emergent triage assignment compared to visits by White patients with SUD, after adjusting for confounding variables. Our results suggest potential dual stigma in ED care of being Black and having a substance use disorder.