bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the self-reported honesty threshold in adolescent epidemiological research: comparing supervised machine learning and inferential statistical techniques
Authors: Kosgolla Janaka V. , Smith Douglas C. , Begum Shahana , Reinhart Crystal A.
Published: September 2023

Background

Epidemiological surveys offer essential data on adolescent substance use. Nevertheless, the precision of these self-report-based surveys often faces mistrust from researchers and the public. We evaluate the efficacy of a direct method to assess data quality by asking adolescents if they were honest. The main goal of our study was to assess the accuracy of a self-report honesty item and designate an optimal threshold for it, allowing us to better account for its impact on point estimates.

Methods

The participants were from the 2020 Illinois Youth Survey, a self-report school-based survey. We divided the primary dataset into subsets based on responses to an honesty item. Then, for each dataset, we examined two distinct data analysis methodologies: supervised machine learning, using the random forest algorithm, and a conventional inferential statistical method, logistic regression. We evaluated item thresholds from both analyses, investigating probable relationships with reported fake drug use, social desirability biases, and missingness in the datasets.

Results

The study results corroborate the appropriateness and reliability of the honesty item and its corresponding threshold. These contain the agreeing honesty thresholds determined in both data analyses, the identified association between reported fake drug use and lower honesty scores, increased missingness and lower honesty, and the determined link between the social desirability bias and honesty threshold.

Conclusions

Confirming the honesty threshold via missing data analysis also strengthens these collective findings, emphasizing our methodology’s and findings’ robustness. Researchers are encouraged to use self-report honesty items in epidemiological research. This will permit the modeling of accurate point estimates by addressing questionable reporting.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hosseini Samaneh , Shafiabadi Nasim , Khanzadeh Monireh , Ghaedi Arshin , Ghorbanzadeh Raziyeh , Azarhomayoun Amir , Bazrgar Aida , Pezeshki Jalil , Bazrafshan Hanieh , Khanzadeh Shokoufeh
Published: September 2023

Background

The goal of this research was to explore the role of Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

From inception to 4 June 2023, PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest were searched for papers comparing NLR in PD to healthy individuals. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with a confidence interval (CI) of 95% were calculated.

Results

A random-effect model revealed that PD patients had elevated NLR values compared to healthy individuals (SMD = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.47 to 1.14, P < 0.001). The results of subgroup analysis were as follows: (1) study design: We observed that patients with PD had higher levels of NLR than healthy controls in either retrospective (SMD = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.58 to 1.66, P < 0.001) or prospective (SMD = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.18 to 0.68, P = 0.001) studies. (2) Ethnicity: We noticed that individuals with PD had higher levels of NLR than healthy controls, whether they were East Asian (SMD = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.22 to 1.63, P = 0.010) or Caucasian (SMD = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.40 to 1.10, P < 0.001).The pooled sensitivity of NLR in the prediction of PD was 0.67 (95% CI = 0.61–0.73), and the pooled specificity was 0.66 (95% CI, 0.61–0.70).

Conclusions

Increased levels of NLR is highly related with the presence of PD. Further research is needed to determine the potential clinical benefits of this simple and low-cost biomarker in the PD diagnosis.
Incident Kaposi sarcoma during the expansion of antiretroviral therapy eligibility in Nigeria: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Akanbi Maxwell. O. , Bilaver Lucy. A. , Achenbach Chad , Hirschhorn Lisa. R. , Rivera Adovich. S. , Adekolujo Orimisan. S. , Adekola Kehinde. U. A. , Silas Olugbenga. A. , Agaba Patricia. A. , Agbaji Oche , Shehu Nathan. Y. , Sagay Solomon. A. , Hou Lifang , Murphy Robert. L.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The expansion of antiretroviral therapy (ART) eligibility could lead to earlier initiation of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) treatment and consequently reduce the risk of HIV-associated Kaposi Sarcoma (KS). We investigated the impact of changes in the Nigerian HIV treatment guidelines on KS incidence among adults enrolled in HIV care in Nigeria.

Methods

We analyzed data of adults who enrolled for HIV care from January 2006 to December 2016 at one of Nigeria’s largest HIV treatment centers. Based on changes in HIV treatment guidelines, we classified 2006–2009 as the pre-expansion period and 2010–2016 as the post-expansion period. We used Kaplan Meier curves to compare the incidence of KS in the pre-expansion to the post-expansion period. We used Cox regression models to assess the hazard for incident KS between the two periods after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Among 14,479 patients with HIV, the overall KS incidence was 2.35; 95% CI 2.01–2.74/1,000 person-years. The incidence of KS decreased from 2.53 to 1.58 per 1,000 person-years from 2006 to 2009 to 2010–2016. In models adjusting for age, sex, CD4-T cell count, and ART use, the risk for KS remained lower in 2010–2016 compared to 2006–2009. In analyses restricted to time on ART, there was no significant difference in KS incidence between HIV patients who enrolled in 2006–2009 and 2010–2016 after adjusting for age, sex, and CD4 T-cell count.

Conclusion

The expansion of ART eligibility was associated with a reduced incidence of HIV-associated KS among adults initiating HIV care in Jos, Nigeria. The reduction was likely driven by earlier enrollment for HIV care and ART initiation.
Assessing complex interventions: a systematic review of outcomes used in randomised controlled trials on STI partner notification in high-income countries
Authors: Sawras Victoire , Deuffic-Burban Sylvie , Préau Marie , Spire Bruno , Yazdanpanah Yazdan , Champenois Karen
Published: September 2023

Background

Partner notification interventions are complex and assessing their effectiveness is challenging. By reviewing the literature on the effectiveness of partner notification interventions, our aim was to evaluate the choice, collection, and interpretation of outcomes and their impact on study findings.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of individual-level randomised controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of partner notification interventions for bacterial STIs, HIV or sexually transmitted HCV in high-income countries since 2000. Partner notification interventions included assisted patient referral interventions and expedited treatment. The content analysis was carried out through a narrative review.

Results

In the 9 studies that met the inclusion criteria, 16 different outcomes were found. In most studies, one or two outcomes assessing partner notification practices were associated with an outcome reflecting STI circulation through index case reinfections. These outcomes assessed the main expected effects of partner notification interventions. However, partner notification is composed of a succession of actions between the intervention on the index case and the testing and/or treatment of the notified partners. Intermediate outcomes were missing so as to better understand levers and barriers throughout the process. Potential changes in participants’ sexual behaviour after partner notification, e.g. condom use, were outcomes reported in only two studies assessing interventions including counselling. Most outcomes were collected through interviews, some weeks after the intervention, which might lead to desirability and attrition biases, respectively. Assessment of the effectiveness of partner notification interventions on partner testing/treatment was limited by the collection of data from index cases. Few data describing index cases and their partners were provided in the studies. Additional data on the number and type of exposed partners and the proportion of partners already aware of their infection before being notified would help to interpret the results.

Conclusions

These insights would help to understand why and under what conditions the intervention is considered effective and therefore can be replicated or adapted to other populations and contexts.
Intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation of displaced distal forearm fractures in children
Authors: Abulsoud Mohamed I. , Mohammed Ahmed Saied , Elmarghany Mohammed , Elgeushy Ahmed , Elzahed Ehab , Moawad Mohamed , Elshal Ehab A. , Elhalawany Mohamed F. , Hassanein Yahia A. , Fouad Amr A. , Zakaria Ahmed R.
Published: September 2023

Aim of the work

This study was designed to highlight internal fixation by intramedullary K-wires for displaced distal forearm fractures among children and analyze the results of this technique. We hypothesize that physis-sparing intramedullary fixation prevents displacement with a lower complication rate.

Methods

This prospective case series involving 47 patients was conducted between February 2018 and December 2019. All patients with open physis presented with recent displaced distal forearm fractures were included, and all of them were treated with an intramedullary k-wire fixation for both bones with the assessment of the union rate, union time, suspected complication, radiographic evaluation, and functional outcome.

Results

The study population consisted of 31 boys (66%) and 16 girls (34%). The mean age of the patients was 10.68 ± 2.728 years (range, 7–15 years). All fractures were united in a median of 6 weeks (range, 4–8 weeks), The functional outcome after 12 months was normal in 42 patients (89.4%), whereas, in five patients (10.6%), the functional parameters were minimally reduced. The median preoperative angulation improved from 36° (range, 24°–52°) preoperatively to 4° (range, 0°–10°) on immediate postoperative radiographs. After 12 months, the median angulation was 2° (range, 0°–7°) (p < 0.001). The angulation of the distal radius immediately after surgery and at the final follow-up was statistically correlated with the functional outcome (p < 0.001 and 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

This technique provides a good result with less susceptibility to re-displacement and low complication rates.

Level of evidence

Level IV.
Investigation of the anti-inflammatory effects of native potential probiotics as supplementary therapeutic agents in an in-vitro model of inflammation
Authors: Aghamohammad Shadi , Sepehr Amin , Miri Seyedeh Tina , Najafi Saeideh , Pourshafie Mohammad R. , Rohani Mahdi
Published: September 2023

Background

IBD is considered an inflammatory disease with abnormal and exaggerated immune responses. To control the symptoms, different theraputic agents could be used, however, utilizing the agents with the least side effects could be important. Probiotics as beneficial microorganisms are one of the complementory theraputic agents that could be used to modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. In the current study, we aimed to identify the precise molecular effects of potential probiotics on signaling pathways involved in the development of inflammation.

Methods

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was used to analyze the expression of JAK /STAT (JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2, STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5 and STAT6) and inflammatory genes (NEMO, TIRAP, IRAK, and RIP) after the HT -29 cell line treatment with the sonicated pathogens and potential probiotics. A cytokine assay was also used to evaluate IL -6 and IL -1β production after potential probiotic treatment.

Results

The potential probiotic cocktail downregulated the JAK genes and TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway compared with cells that were treated with sonicated gram negative pathogens. The expression of STAT genes was different after potential probiotic treatment. The production of IL -6 and IL -1β decreased after potential probiotic treatment.

Conclusions

Considering the importance of controlling the symptoms of IBD to improve the life quality of the patients, using probiotic could be crucial. In the current study the studied native potential probiotic cocktails showed anti-inflammatory effects via modulation of JAK /STAT and NF-kB signaling pathways. This observation suggests that our native potential probiotics consumption could be useful in reducing intestinal inflammation.
A qualitative study of experiences of institutional objection to medical assistance in dying in Canada: ongoing challenges and catalysts for change
Authors: Close Eliana , Jeanneret Ruthie , Downie Jocelyn , Willmott Lindy , White Ben P
Published: September 2023

Background

In June 2016, Canada legalized medical assistance in dying (MAiD). From the outset, some healthcare institutions (including faith-based and non-faith-based hospitals, hospices, and residential aged care facilities) have refused to allow aspects of MAiD onsite, resulting in patient transfers for MAiD assessments and provision. There have been media reports highlighting the negative consequences of these “institutional objections”, however, very little research has examined their nature and impact.

Methods

This study reports on findings from 48 semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted with MAiD assessors and providers, MAiD team members (working to coordinate care and lead MAiD programs in institutions and health authorities), and family caregivers on their experiences with institutional objection. Participants were recruited from the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Themes identified were: (1) basis for institutional objection (with objections commonly rooted in religious values and a particular philosophy of palliative care); (2) scope of objection (demonstrating a wide range of practices objected to); (3) lack of transparency regarding institutional position; (4) impacts on patients; (5) impacts on health practitioners; and (6) catalysts for change. Participants reported that many institutions’ objections had softened over time, lessening barriers to MAiD access and adverse impacts on patients and health practitioners. Participants attributed this positive change to a range of catalysts including advocacy by health practitioners and family members, policymaking by local health authorities, education, and relationship building. Nevertheless, some institutions, particularly faith-based ones, retained strong objections to MAiD, resulting in forced transfers and negative emotional and psychological impacts on patients, family members, and health practitioners.

Conclusions

This paper adds to the limited evidence base about the impacts of institutional objection and can inform practical and regulatory solutions in Canada and abroad. Reform is needed to minimize the negative impacts on patients, their caregivers, and health practitioners involved in MAiD practice.
Efficient malachite green biodegradation by Pseudomonas plecoglossicide MG2: process optimization, application in bioreactors, and degradation pathway
Authors: El-Bendary Magda A. , Fawzy Mariam E. , Abdelraof Mohamed , El-Sedik Mervat , Allam Mousa A.
Published: September 2023

Microbial degradation of synthetic dyes is considered a promising green dye detoxification, cost-effective and eco-friendly approach. A detailed study on the decolorization and degradation of malachite green dye (MG) using a newly isolated Pseudomonas plecoglossicide MG2 was carried out. Optimization of MG biodegradation by the tested organism was investigated by using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer and the resultant degraded products were analyzed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and FTIR. Also, the cytotoxicity of MG degraded products was studied on a human normal retina cell line. The optimum conditions for the significant maximum decolorization of MG dye (90–93%) by the tested organism were pH 6–7, inoculum size 4–6%, and incubation temperature 30–35 °C, under static and aerobic conditions. The performance of Pseudomonas plecoglossicide MG2 grown culture in the bioreactors using simulated wastewater was assessed. MG degradation (99% at 100 and 150 mg MG/l at an optimal pH) and COD removal (95.95%) by using Pseudomonas plecoglossicide MG2 culture were the best in the tested culture bioreactor in comparison with that in activated sludge or tested culture-activated sludge bioreactors.The FTIR spectrum of the biodegraded MG displayed significant spectral changes, especially in the fingerprint region 1500–500 as well as disappearance of some peaks and appearance of new peaks. Twelve degradation intermediates were identified by LC–MS. They were desmalachite green, didesmalachite green, tetradesmalachite green, 4-(diphenylmethyl)aniline, malachite green carbinol, bis[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]methanone, [4-(dimethylamino)phenyl][4-(methyl-amino)phenyl]methanone, bis[4-(methylamino)phenyl]methanone, (4-amino- phenyl)[4-(methylamino)phenyl]methanone, bis(4-amino phenyl)methanone, (4-amino phenyl)methanone, and 4-(dimathylamino)benzaldehyde. According to LC–MS and FTIR data, two pathways for MG degradation by using Pseudomonas plecoglossicide MG2 were proposed. MG showed cytotoxicity to human normal retina cell line with LC50 of 28.9 µg/ml and LC90 at 79.7 µg/ml. On the other hand, MG bio-degraded products showed no toxicity to the tested cell line. Finally, this study proved that Pseudomonas plecoglossicide MG2 could be used as an efficient, renewable, eco-friendly, sustainable and cost-effective biotechnology tool for the treatment of dye wastewater effluent.
Related factors of renal injury in primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Duan Nan , Li Zhiyan , Fan Yong , Jiang Yaping , Li Haixia
Published: September 2023

Background

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a common chronic systemic autoimmune disorder which primarily affects the exocrine glands. Patients may have extraglandular disease involving multiple organs, including the kidneys. This study aimed at investigating the clinical data and laboratory markers which were associated with renal function damage or renal involvement.

Method

One thousand two hundred eighty-eight adult pSS patients from the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. And there were 334 patients of them followed up for more than two years for analyzing demographic, clinical data and laboratory markers. Statistical analysis was performed by R software (Version 3.6.2).

Result

Nearly 95% of 1288 pSS patients were women, and the positive rates of anti-SSA (Sjögren's syndrome A) and anti-SSB were 63% and 27% respectively. 12% of the pSS patients presented renal involvement with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and the mean age of hospital presentation, serum creatinine and urea were the highest (P < 0.001), and ANA (antinuclear antibody)-positive, anti-SSB-positive and anti-scl-70-positive were more prevalent in this group. Multivariate analyses showed that age, urea, chlorine and anti-SSA indicate a significant association with renal dysfunction. Potassium, sodium and Jo-1 were also confirmed to be related with decreased renal function. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis including the above factors showed a good performance on the evaluation of renal injury including eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and eGFR 60 -90 mL/min/1.73 m2 in pSS, with area under curve (AUC) values of 0.957 and 0.821, and high sensitivity (71.1% and 84.4%) and specificity (95.5% and 70.5%). After a more than two years follow-up of anti-SSA positive patients, 34.14% of them developed decreased renal function, and 13.58% of them experienced a progression of renal injury with a 23.64% decrease in eGFR.

Conclusion

Age, urea, chlorine, and anti-SSA were highly associated with renal injury in pSS. Early screening for autoantibodies would be meaningful for evaluation and prevention of renal injury in pSS.
Microplastics removal from aqueous environment by metal organic frameworks
Authors: Honarmandrad Zhila , Kaykhaii Massoud , Gębicki Jacek
Published: September 2023

This paper provides an overview of recent research performed on the applications of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for microplastics (MPs) removal from aqueous environments. MPs pollution has become a major environmental concern due to its negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Therefore, developing effective and sustainable methods for removing them from aqueous environments is crucial. In recent years, MOFs have emerged as a promising solution for this purpose due to their unique properties such as high surface area, renewability, chemical stability, and versatility. Moreover, their specific properties such as their pore size and chemical composition can be tailored to enhance their efficiency in removing MPs. It has been shown that MOFs can effectively adsorb MPs from aqueous media in the range of 70–99.9%. Besides some high price concerns, the main drawback of using MOFs is their powder form which can pose challenges due to their instability. This can be addressed by supporting MOFs on other substrates such as aerogels or foams. Meanwhile, there is a need for more research to investigate the long-term stability of MOFs in aqueous environments and developing efficient regeneration methods for their repeated use.
Long-read sequencing reveals the landscape of aberrant alternative splicing and novel therapeutic target in colorectal cancer
Authors: Sun Qiang , Han Ye , He Jianxing , Wang Jie , Ma Xuejie , Ning Qianqian , Zhao Qing , Jin Qian , Yang Lili , Li Shuang , Li Yang , Zhi Qiaoming , Zheng Junnian , Dong Dong
Published: September 2023

Background

Alternative splicing complexity plays a vital role in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Improved understanding of novel splicing events and the underlying regulatory mechanisms may contribute new insights into developing new therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

Here, we combined long-read sequencing technology with short-read RNA-seq methods to investigate the transcriptome complexity in CRC. By using experiment assays, we explored the function of newly identified splicing isoform TIMP1 Δ4-5. Moreover, a CRISPR/dCasRx-based strategy to induce the TIMP1 exon 4–5 exclusion was introduced to inhibit neoplasm growth.

Results

A total of 90,703 transcripts were identified, of which > 62% were novel compared with current transcriptome annotations. These novel transcripts were more likely to be sample specific, expressed at relatively lower levels with more exons, and oncogenes displayed a characteristic to generate more transcripts in CRC. Clinical outcome data analysis showed that 1472 differentially expressed alternative splicing events (DEAS) were tightly associated with CRC patients’ prognosis, and many novel isoforms were likely to be important determinants for patient survival. Among these, newly identified splicing isoform TIMP1 Δ4-5 was significantly downregulated in CRC. Further in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated that ectopic expression of TIMP1 Δ4-5 significantly suppresses tumor cell growth and metastasis. Serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 1 (SRSF1) acts as a onco-splicing regulator through sustaining the inclusion of TIMP1 exon 4–5. Furthermore, CRISPR/dCasRx-based strategies designed to induce TIMP1 exon 4–5 exclusion have the potential to restrain the CRC growth.

Conclusions

This data provides a rich resource for deeper studies of gastrointestinal malignancies. Newly identified splicing isoform TIMP1 Δ4-5 plays an important role in mediating CRC progression and may be a potential therapy target in CRC.
Measurement properties of device-based physical activity instruments in ambulatory adults with physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases: a scoping review
Authors: Brandenbarg Pim , Hoekstra Femke , Barakou Ioulia , Seves Bregje L. , Hettinga Florentina J. , Hoekstra Trynke , van der Woude Lucas H. V , Dekker Rienk , Krops Leonie A.
Published: September 2023

Background

People with physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases tend to have an inactive lifestyle. Monitoring physical activity levels is important to provide insight on how much and what types of activities people with physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases engage in. This information can be used as input for interventions to promote a physically active lifestyle. Therefore, valid and reliable physical activity measurement instruments are needed. This scoping review aims 1) to provide a critical mapping of the existing literature and 2) directions for future research on measurement properties of device-based instruments assessing physical activity behavior in ambulant adults with physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases.

Methods

Four databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase) were systematically searched from 2015 to April 16th 2023 for articles investigating measurement properties of device-based instruments assessing physical activity in ambulatory adults with physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases. For the majority, screening and selection of eligible studies were done in duplicate. Extracted data were publication data, study data, study population, device, studied measurement properties and study outcome. Data were synthesized per device.

Results

One hundred three of 21566 Studies were included. 55 Consumer-grade and 23 research-grade devices were studied on measurement properties, using 14 different physical activity outcomes, in 23 different physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases. ActiGraph (n = 28) and Fitbit (n = 39) devices were most frequently studied. Steps (n = 68) was the most common used physical activity outcome. 97 studies determined validity, 11 studies reliability and 6 studies responsiveness.

Conclusion

This scoping review shows a large variability in research on measurement properties of device-based instruments in ambulatory adults with physical disabilities and/or chronic diseases. The variability highlights a need for standardization of and consensus on research in this field. The review provides directions for future research.
Use of mobile technology to identify behavioral mechanisms linked to mental health outcomes in Kenya: protocol for development and validation of a predictive model
Authors: Njoroge Willie , Maina Rachel , Frank Elena , Atwoli Lukoye , Wu Zhenke , Ngugi Anthony K , Sen Srijan , Wang JianLi , Wong Stephen , Baker Jessica A , Weinheimer-Haus Eileen M , Khakali Linda , Aballa Andrew , Orwa James , K Nyongesa Moses , Shah Jasmit , Waljee Akbar K , Abubakar Amina , Merali Zul
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study proposes to identify and validate weighted sensor stream signatures that predict near-term risk of a major depressive episode and future mood among healthcare workers in Kenya.

Approach

The study will deploy a mobile application (app) platform and use novel data science analytic approaches (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) to identifying predictors of mental health disorders among 500 randomly sampled healthcare workers from five healthcare facilities in Nairobi, Kenya.

Expectation

This study will lay the basis for creating agile and scalable systems for rapid diagnostics that could inform precise interventions for mitigating depression and ensure a healthy, resilient healthcare workforce to develop sustainable economic growth in Kenya, East Africa, and ultimately neighboring countries in sub-Saharan Africa. This protocol paper provides an opportunity to share the planned study implementation methods and approaches.

Conclusion

A mobile technology platform that is scalable and can be used to understand and improve mental health outcomes is of critical importance.
Nematostella vectensis exemplifies the exceptional expansion and diversity of opsins in the eyeless Hexacorallia
Authors: McCulloch Kyle J. , Babonis Leslie S. , Liu Alicia , Daly Christina M. , Martindale Mark Q. , Koenig Kristen M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Opsins are the primary proteins responsible for light detection in animals. Cnidarians (jellyfish, sea anemones, corals) have diverse visual systems that have evolved in parallel with bilaterians (squid, flies, fish) for hundreds of millions of years. Medusozoans (e.g., jellyfish, hydroids) have evolved eyes multiple times, each time independently incorporating distinct opsin orthologs. Anthozoans (e.g., corals, sea anemones,) have diverse light-mediated behaviors and, despite being eyeless, exhibit more extensive opsin duplications than medusozoans. To better understand the evolution of photosensitivity in animals without eyes, we increased anthozoan representation in the phylogeny of animal opsins and investigated the large but poorly characterized opsin family in the sea anemone Nematostella vectensis.

Results

We analyzed genomic and transcriptomic data from 16 species of cnidarians to generate a large opsin phylogeny (708 sequences) with the largest sampling of anthozoan sequences to date. We identified 29 opsins from N. vectensis (NvOpsins) with high confidence, using transcriptomic and genomic datasets. We found that lineage-specific opsin duplications are common across Cnidaria, with anthozoan lineages exhibiting among the highest numbers of opsins in animals. To establish putative photosensory function of NvOpsins, we identified canonically conserved protein domains and amino acid sequences essential for opsin function in other animal species. We show high sequence diversity among NvOpsins at sites important for photoreception and transduction, suggesting potentially diverse functions. We further examined the spatiotemporal expression of NvOpsins and found both dynamic expression of opsins during embryonic development and sexually dimorphic opsin expression in adults.

Conclusions

These data show that lineage-specific duplication and divergence has led to expansive diversity of opsins in eyeless cnidarians, suggesting opsins from these animals may exhibit novel biochemical functions. The variable expression patterns of opsins in N. vectensis suggest opsin gene duplications allowed for a radiation of unique sensory cell types with tissue- and stage-specific functions. This diffuse network of distinct sensory cell types could be an adaptive solution for varied sensory tasks experienced in distinct life history stages in Anthozoans.
Morality in middle childhood: the role of callous-unemotional traits and emotion regulation skills
Authors: Wilke Jessica , Goagoses Naska
Published: September 2023

Background

The development of morality is vital for fostering prosocial behavior and enhancing both individual and societal well-being. Clarifying what contextual and individual factors play a role in moral processes during childhood can contribute to our understanding of the development of morality. Given the previous acknowledgment of importance, yet lack of existing empirical findings, the study focused on the significance of callous-unemotional traits (i.e., an affective-interpersonal personality trait, related to psychopathy in adulthood) and emotion regulation (i.e., an essential part of socio-emotional competence, and a transdiagnostic factor in the development of psychopathology) for moral emotions and cognitions during middle childhood. The concrete aim was to examine direct and indirect effects of callous-unemotional trait dimensions (callousness, uncaring, unemotionality) onto immoral emotional attribution (i.e., feeling good after immoral decisions) and admissibility of immoral actions (i.e., evaluating immoral actions as being okay) via emotion regulation skills.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 194 children attending Grades 1 to 4, and their primary caregivers. The children completed the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits and caregivers completed the Emotion Regulation Checklist. The children were also presented with a set of moral dilemma vignettes, and asked about the emotions of protagonists who acted immoral, and the admissibility of their actions.

Results

Path-model analysis revealed (1) negative direct effects of emotion regulation skills onto immoral emotional attribution and admissibility of immoral actions, (2) positive direct effects of the dimensions callousness and uncaring onto immoral emotional attribution and admissibility of immoral actions, and (3) negative direct effects of dimensions callousness and uncaring onto emotion regulation skills. Indirect effects, indicating that emotion regulation skills mediate the association between the callous-unemotional trait dimensions and morality, were also found.

Conclusion

The findings address a knowledge gap and indicate that emotion regulation skills, callousness, and uncaring play an important role in morality in middle childhood and should be included in frameworks of moral decision-making and development.
An empirical investigation of the associations between metacognition, mindfulness experiential avoidance, depression, and anxiety
Authors: Ådnøy Torstein , Solem Stian , Hagen Roger , Havnen Audun
Published: September 2023

Background

The aims of this study were to explore the possible relation between metacognition, mindfulness, and experiential avoidance, as well as their association with symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Methods

Cross-sectional data was collected from a community sample (N = 364) who completed the Metacognitions Questionnaire-30 (MCQ-30), the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-24 (FFMQ-24), the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).

Results

There were moderate-strong associations between mindfulness (FFMQ-24), metacognition (MCQ-30), and experiential avoidance (AAQ-II) (0.62 − 0.67), and they showed similar relations with symptoms of depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7) (0.57 − 0.71). Metacognition, experiential avoidance, and the non-judging subscale of FFMQ-24 constituted a latent factor of flexibility in cognition and emotional experience, while three FFMQ-24 subscales (describing, acting with awareness, and observing) constituted a present-centered attention and awareness factor. Regression analyses indicated that flexibility explained more of the variance in symptoms of anxiety and depression than present-centered attention and awareness.

Conclusions

The results suggest that flexibility in cognitive and emotional regulation skills could be important in explaining symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Assessing the decorative techniques of two Art Nouveau glass windows by optical coherence tomography (OCT)
Authors: Palomar Teresa , Iwanicka Magdalena , Pombo Cardoso Isabel , Vilarigues Marcia , Targowski Piotr
Published: September 2023

This work presents an assessment of the different decoration techniques applied in the two glass windows from the Casa-Museu Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves (Lisbon, Portugal) by Optical coherence tomography (OCT). The Dining Room glass window was found to be decorated with grisailles and acid etching, and the Atelier window with grisaille, enamel, and cold painting. The alteration state of the surface decorations was also assessed. The thicker surface decorations (grisailles and enamels) presented cracks and detachments, in contrast to the thinner lines which are normally well preserved. OCT is a suitable technique for characterizing glass decoration in situ without dismounting the stained-glass window; and able to reveal the condition and methods of manufacture that cannot be detected simply by visual inspection.
Postseismic gravity changes after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake observed by superconducting gravimeters at Mizusawa, Japan
Authors: Tamura Yoshiaki , Kazama Takahito , Nishiyama Ryuichi , Matsuo Koji , Imanishi Yuichi
Published: September 2023

Postseismic gravity changes after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake (Mw9.0) were investigated using the data from superconducting gravimeters (SGs) at Mizusawa, Japan. The data in the period from 2014 to 2021 were used in the analysis. The SG data were first corrected for instrumental drift using the results of absolute gravity measurements. Then, correction for the hydrological effect was applied based on physical modeling of soil moisture. Finally, the effect of vertical displacement of the station (free-air effect) was corrected using GNSS data. After these corrections, residual gravity indicated a long-term increase, with its rate gradually decreasing with time. This fact suggests that viscoelastic relaxation after the earthquake played an important role in producing the long-term gravity changes. Fitting a decaying exponential function of time to the residual series yielded 89.4 ± 4.4 µGal (1 µGal = 10–8 ms–2) as the total gravity change and 635 ± 17 days as the characteristic time scale. In addition to the ground-based observations, the data from satellite gravity missions GRACE/GRACE-FO were analyzed to retrieve gravity changes at Mizusawa. Similar analysis of the satellite-based data yielded 15.2 ± 1.6 µGal as the total gravity change and 3444 ± 599 days as the characteristic time scale. The difference in the estimates of the total gravity change, of a factor of about 6, from the ground-based and the satellite-based observations may be attributed to the limited spatial resolution in the latter method. The difference in the estimates of the time scale, of a factor of about 1/5, may originate from the difference in the depth where the two kinds of gravimetry are mainly sensitive. Referring to recent theoretical studies on postseismic deformations after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, our results can be interpreted consistently by assuming the existence of a layer of viscoelastic materials with viscosity $$2\times {10}^{18} \text{Pa s}$$

2
×

10

18

Pa s

underneath the Tohoku area of Japan.

Graphical Abstract
Fluid restrictive resuscitation with high molecular weight hyaluronan infusion in early peritonitis sepsis
Authors: Tenhunen Annelie Barrueta , van der Heijden Jaap , Skorup Paul , Maccarana Marco , Larsson Anders , Larsson Anders , Perchiazzi Gaetano , Tenhunen Jyrki
Published: September 2023

Sepsis is a condition with high morbidity and mortality. Prompt recognition and initiation of treatment is essential. Despite forming an integral part of sepsis management, fluid resuscitation may also lead to volume overload, which in turn is associated with increased mortality. The optimal fluid strategy in sepsis resuscitation is yet to be defined. Hyaluronan, an endogenous glycosaminoglycan with high affinity to water is an important constituent of the endothelial glycocalyx. We hypothesized that exogenously administered hyaluronan would counteract intravascular volume depletion and contribute to endothelial glycocalyx integrity in a fluid restrictive model of peritonitis. In a prospective, blinded model of porcine peritonitis sepsis, we randomized animals to intervention with hyaluronan (n = 8) or 0.9% saline (n = 8). The animals received an infusion of 0.1% hyaluronan 6 ml/kg/h, or the same volume of saline, during the first 2 h of peritonitis. Stroke volume variation and hemoconcentration were comparable in the two groups throughout the experiment. Cardiac output was higher in the intervention group during the infusion of hyaluronan (3.2 ± 0.5 l/min in intervention group vs 2.7 ± 0.2 l/min in the control group) (p = 0.039). The increase in lactate was more pronounced in the intervention group (3.2 ± 1.0 mmol/l in the intervention group and 1.7 ± 0.7 mmol/l in the control group) at the end of the experiment (p < 0.001). Concentrations of surrogate markers of glycocalyx damage; syndecan 1 (0.6 ± 0.2 ng/ml vs 0.5 ± 0.2 ng/ml, p = 0.292), heparan sulphate (1.23 ± 0.2 vs 1.4 ± 0.3 ng/ml, p = 0.211) and vascular adhesion protein 1 (7.0 ± 4.1 vs 8.2 ± 2.3 ng/ml, p = 0.492) were comparable in the two groups at the end of the experiment. In conclusion, hyaluronan did not counteract intravascular volume depletion in early peritonitis sepsis. However, this finding is hampered by the short observation period and a beneficial effect of HMW-HA in peritonitis sepsis cannot be discarded based on the results of the present study.
Integrating Deloading into Strength and Physique Sports Training Programmes: An International Delphi Consensus Approach
Authors: Bell Lee , Strafford Ben William , Coleman Max , Androulakis Korakakis Patroklos , Nolan David
Published: September 2023

Background

Deloading is a ubiquitous yet under-researched strategy within strength and physique training. How deloading should be integrated into the training programme to elicit optimal training outcomes is unknown. To aid its potential integration, this study established consensus around design principles for integrating deloading in strength and physique training programmes using expert opinion and practical experience.

Methods

Expert strength and physique coaches were invited to an online Delphi consisting of 3 rounds. Thirty-four coaches completed the first round, 29 completed the second round, and 21 completed the third round of a Delphi questionnaire. In the first round, coaches answered 15 open-ended questions from four categories: 1: General Perceptions of Deloading; 2: Potential Applications of Deloading; 3: Designing and Implementing Deloading; and 4: Creating an Inclusive Deloading Training Environment. First-round responses were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, resulting in 138 statements organized into four domains. In the second and third rounds, coaches rated each statement using a four-point Likert scale, and collective agreement or disagreement was calculated.

Results

Stability of consensus was achieved across specific aspects of the four categories. Findings from the final round were used to develop the design principles, which reflect the consensus achieved.

Conclusions

This study develops consensus on design principles for integrating deloading into strength and physique sports training programmes. A consensus definition is proposed: “Deloading is a period of reduced training stress designed to mitigate physiological and psychological fatigue, promote recovery, and enhance preparedness for subsequent training.” These findings contribute novel knowledge that might advance the current understanding of deloading in strength and physique sports.
Microbial community changes correlate with impaired host fitness of Aurelia aurita after environmental challenge
Authors: Pinnow Nicole , Chibani Cynthia M. , Güllert Simon , Weiland-Bräuer Nancy
Published: September 2023

Climate change globally endangers certain marine species, but at the same time, such changes may promote species that can tolerate and adapt to varying environmental conditions. Such acclimatization can be accompanied or possibly even be enabled by a host’s microbiome; however, few studies have so far directly addressed this process. Here we show that acute, individual rises in seawater temperature and salinity to sub-lethal levels diminished host fitness of the benthic Aurelia aurita polyp, demonstrated by up to 34% reduced survival rate, shrinking of the animals, and almost halted asexual reproduction. Changes in the fitness of the polyps to environmental stressors coincided with microbiome changes, mainly within the phyla Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota. The absence of bacteria amplified these effects, pointing to the benefit of a balanced microbiota to cope with a changing environment. In a future ocean scenario, mimicked by a combined but milder rise of temperature and salinity, the fitness of polyps was severely less impaired, together with condition-specific changes in the microbiome composition. Our results show that the effects on host fitness correlate with the strength of environmental stress, while salt-conveyed thermotolerance might be involved. Further, a specific, balanced microbiome of A. aurita polyps supports the host’s acclimatization. Microbiomes may provide a means for acclimatization, and microbiome flexibility can be a fundamental strategy for marine animals to adapt to future ocean scenarios and maintain biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
Mannose-anchored solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with atorvastatin calcium and vinpocetine as targeted therapy for breast cancer
Authors: Shinde Amol S. , Lala Rita R.
Published: September 2023

Background

This study was aimed to design mannose-conjugated solid lipid nanoparticles (MSLNs) for the targeted delivery of Atorvastatin Calcium (ATS) and Vinpocetine (VIN) to augment its therapeutic efficacy against breast cancer. SLNs were prepared by hot emulsification ultra-probe sonication method and conjugated with mannose. In vitro cell line, in vivo pharmacokinetic and in vivo tumor regression studies were performed for MSLNs.

Results

MSLNs had an average particle size of 435.4 ± 3 nm with polydispersity index 0.298 ± 0.03 and a zeta potential of − 28.2 ± 1 emv. Entrapment efficiency was found to be 69.17 ± 0.92%, 71.18 ± 0.68% for ATS and VIN, respectively. The IC50 value of MSLNs was 1.46 µg/ml, which is efficient to control the growth of MDA MB231 cells as compared to the individual drugs and combinatorial SLNs. The combination index was found to be 0.7. MSLNs inhibited cell growth via necrosis by promoting to apoptosis through arresting SubG1 phase. The relative bioavailability of ATS and VIN loaded in MSLNs was 1.47 and 5.70, respectively, as compared to the marketed formulation. Maximal tumor volume reduction and higher survival rate was found for the MSLNs group (76.03%, P = 0.0001) as compared to the control group (P = 0.0364), individual drugs SLNs group.

Conclusion

The results revealed that the MSLNs formulation augmented activity against breast cancer by inhibiting the cell growth. This promising drug delivery reduces the doses for both the drugs and attains minimal dose-associated side effects with synergism by reaching the specific target site, furthermore improving the therapeutic efficacy.
Ένταξη και παιδαγωγική αξιοποίηση των φυσικών δραστηριοτήτων ελεύθερου χρόνου στο σχολείο
Authors: Λαϊνάκης Γεώργιος
Published: September 2023

Ο Παγκόσμιος Οργανισμός Υγείας (WHO, 2020) συστήνει σε παιδιά και έφηβους ηλικίας 5-17 ετών κατά μέσο όρο 60 λεπτά μέτρια προς έντονη καθημερινή φυσική δραστηριότητα και τρεις φορές την εβδομάδα έντονης έντασης δραστηριότητες. Το σχολικό διάλειμμα παρέχει σημαντικές ευκαιρίες για Φυσικές Δραστηριότητες στα παιδιά, με πολλαπλά γνωστικά, σωματικά, συναισθηματικά και κοινωνικά οφέλη. Η παρούσα εργασία έχει ως αντικείμενο την αξιοποίηση του σχολικού διαλείμματος, με ελεύθερες και ημιδομημένες επιλογές φυσικών δραστηριοτήτων. Στην έρευνα συμμετείχαν έξι δημόσια δημοτικά σχολεία της Θεσσαλονίκης με 860 μαθητές και μαθήτριες (448 αγόρια και 412 κορίτσια) ηλικίας 8 - 11 χρόνων. Η έρευνα περιλάμβανε δύο φάσεις. Η πρώτη φάση που αφορούσε το σύνολο του δείγματος, εξέτασε τις απόψεις και επιθυμίες των παιδιών για το διάλειμμα με τη βοήθεια δομημένου ερωτηματολογίου κλειστού τύπου (τύπου Linkert). Ταυτόχρονα καθορίστηκε η κοινωνιομετρική θέση των μαθητών/τριών με το κοινωνιόγραμμα και καταγράφηκαν τα επίπεδα φυσικών δραστηριοτήτων τους κατά τη διάρκεια του διαλείμματος με εργαλείο άμεσης παρατήρησης (SOPLAY). Στη δεύτερη φάση εφαρμόστηκε ένα πρόγραμμα παρέμβασης διάρκειας δέκα εβδομάδων σε τρία πειραματικά σχολεία, που βασίστηκε στις αντιλήψεις και τις επιθυμίες των μαθητών. Επανεξετάστηκαν οι αντιλήψεις των παιδιών για το διάλειμμα, καταγράφηκαν τα επίπεδα φυσικών δραστηριοτήτων αλλά και η κοινωνιομετρική τους κατάσταση. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι τα προγράμματα παρέμβασης με φυσικές δραστηριότητες στο διάλειμμα θεωρούνται πολύ σημαντικά για τα παιδιά και αποτελούν μια αποτελεσματική στρατηγική για την αύξηση των επιπέδων φυσικής δραστηριότητά τους και τη βελτίωση των κοινωνικών δεξιοτήτων και της κοινωνιομετρικής τους κατάταξης.