bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uric acid and neurological disease: a narrative review
Authors: Otani Naoyuki , Hoshiyama Eisei , Ouchi Motoshi , Takekawa Hidehiro , Suzuki Keisuke
Published: June 2023

Hyperuricemia often accompanies hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, and chronic renal disease; it is also closely related to cardiovascular disease. Moreover, several epidemiological studies have linked hyperuricemia and ischemic stroke. However, uric acid may also have neuroprotective effects because of its antioxidant properties. An association between low uric acid levels and neurodegenerative diseases has been suggested, which may be attributed to diminished neuroprotective effects as a result of reduced uric acid. This review will focus on the relationship between uric acid and various neurological diseases including stroke, neuroimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. When considering both the risk and pathogenesis of neurological diseases, it is important to consider the conflicting dual nature of uric acid as both a vascular risk factor and a neuroprotective factor. This dual nature of uric acid is important because it may help to elucidate the biological role of uric acid in various neurological diseases and provide new insights into the etiology and treatment of these diseases.
Binocular imbalance in patients after implantable collamer lens V4c implantation or femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis for myopia with presbyopia
Authors: Ye Yuhao , Zhang Zhe , Niu Lingling , Shi Wanru , Wang Xiaoying , Yan Li , Zhou Xingtao , Zhao Jing
Published: June 2023

Aim

To investigate the long-term safety, efficacy, and binocular balance of monovision surgery using Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) V4c implantation and Femtosecond Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) for the treatment of myopic patients with presbyopia.

Methods

This case series study involved 90 eyes of 45 patients (male/female = 19/26; average age:46.27 ± 5.54 years; average follow-up time:48.73 ± 14.65 months) who underwent the aforementioned surgery to treat myopic presbyopes. Data on manifest refraction, corrected distance visual acuity, dominant eye, presbyopic addition, intraocular pressure, and anterior segment biometric parameters were collected. The visual outcomes and binocular balance at 0.4 m, 0.8 m, and 5 m were documented.

Results

The safety index for the ICL V4c and FS-LASIK groups were 1.24 ± 0.27 and 1.04 ± 0.20 (p = 0.125), respectively. Binocular visual acuity (logmar) for 0.4 m, 0.8 m, and 5 m were −0.03 ± 0.05, −0.03 ± 0.02, and 0.10 ± 0.03 for the ICL V4c group, and −0.02 ± 0.09, −0.01 ± 0.02, and 0.06 ± 0.04 for the FS-LASIK group, respectively. The proportions of all patients with imbalanced vision at 0.4 m, 0.8 m, and 5 m distances were 68.89, 71.11, and 82.22%, respectively (all p > 0.05 between the two groups). There were significant differences in refraction between the balanced and imbalanced vision for patients at 0.4 m distance (for non-dominant eye spherical equivalent [SE]: −1.14 ± 0.17D and −1.47 ± 0.13D, p < 0.001), 0.8 m distance (for preoperative ADD:0.90 ± 0.17D and 1.05 ± 0.11D, p = 0.041), and 5 m distance (for non-dominant SE: −1.13 ± 0.33D and −1.42 ± 0.11D, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

ICL V4c implantation and FS-LASIK monovision treatment demonstrated good long-term safety and binocular visual acuity at various distances. After the procedure, the imbalanced patients’ vision is primarily related to the age-related presbyopia and anisometropia progression caused by the monovision design.
Diversity of Linum genetic resources in global genebanks: from agro-morphological characterisation to novel genomic technologies – a review
Authors: Kaur Vikender , Singh Mamta , Wankhede Dhammaprakash Pandhari , Gupta Kavita , Langyan Sapna , Aravind Jayaraman , Thangavel Boopathi , Yadav Shashank Kumar , Kalia Sanjay , Singh Kuldeep , Kumar Ashok
Published: June 2023

Linseed or flaxseed is a well-recognized nutritional food with nutraceutical properties owing to high omega-3 fatty acid (α-Linolenic acid), dietary fiber, quality protein, and lignan content. Currently, linseed enjoys the status of a ‘superfood’ and its integration in the food chain as a functional food is evolving continuously as seed constituents are associated with lowering the risk of chronic ailments, such as heart diseases, cancer, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. This crop also receives much attention in the handloom and textile sectors as the world’s coolest fabric linen is made up of its stem fibers which are endowed with unique qualities such as luster, tensile strength, density, bio-degradability, and non-hazardous nature. Worldwide, major linseed growing areas are facing erratic rainfall and temperature patterns affecting flax yield, quality, and response to biotic stresses. Amid such changing climatic regimes and associated future threats, diverse linseed genetic resources would be crucial for developing cultivars with a broad genetic base for sustainable production. Furthermore, linseed is grown across the world in varied agro-climatic conditions; therefore it is vital to develop niche-specific cultivars to cater to diverse needs and keep pace with rising demands globally. Linseed genetic diversity conserved in global genebanks in the form of germplasm collection from natural diversity rich areas is expected to harbor genetic variants and thus form crucial resources for breeding tailored crops to specific culinary and industrial uses. Global genebank collections thus potentially play an important role in supporting sustainable agriculture and food security. Currently, approximately 61,000 germplasm accessions of linseed including 1,127 wild accessions are conserved in genebanks/institutes worldwide. This review analyzes the current status ofLinumgenetic resources in global genebanks, evaluation for agro-morphological traits, stress tolerance, and nutritional profiling to promote their effective use for sustainable production and nutrition enhancement in our modern diets.
Plasma tRF-16-79MP9PD and tRF-28-OB1690PQR304 as potential biomarkers for 4- to 7-year-old children with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome
Authors: Wu Junhua , Cai Xiaohong , Lu Yanbo , Shen Yijing , Shen Zhisen , Lyv Qin
Published: June 2023

Background

We investigated the expression and the potential value of plasma transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) of children with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) as screening biomarkers.

Methods

At first, we randomly selected five plasma samples from the case group and the control group for high-throughput RNA sequencing. Secondly, we screened two tRFs with different expression between the two groups, amplified it by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) on all samples. Then we analyzed the diagnostic value of the tRFs and their correlation with the clinical data.

Results

A total of 50 OSAHS children and 38 healthy controls were included. Our results demonstrated that the plasma levels of tRF-16-79MP9PD and tRF-28-OB1690PQR304 were significantly down-regulated in OSAHS children. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of tRF-16-79MP9PD and tRF-28-OB1690PQR304 was 0.7945 and 0.8276. In addition, the AUC of the combination reached 0.8303 with 73.46% and 76.42% sensitivity and specificity. Correlation analysis showed that the degree of tonsil enlargement, hemoglobin (Hb) and triglyceride (TG). were related to the expression levels of tRF-16-79MP9PD and tRF-28-OB1690PQR304. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that degree of tonsil enlargement, Hb and TG related to tRF-16-79MP9PD while degree of tonsil enlargement and Hb related to tRF-28-OB1690PQR304.

Conclusions

The expression levels of tRF-16-79MP9PD and tRF-28-OB1690PQR304 in the plasma of OSAHS children decreased significantly which were closely related to the degree of tonsil enlargement, Hb and TG, may become novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of pediatric OSAHS.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes in febrile infants aged 29–90 days with urinary tract infections and cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis
Authors: Moon Ga Won , Shin Donghyun , Kim Young Mi , Choi Soo-Han
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Fever without a focus is a common reason for medical evaluations, hospitalizations, and the antimicrobial treatment of infants younger than 90 days. The presence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis could be challenge for clinicians who treat febrile young infants with urinary tract infection (UTI). We evaluated the factors associated with sterile CSF pleocytosis and the clinical outcomes of the patients.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients aged 29–90 days with febrile UTIs who underwent a non-traumatic lumbar puncture (LP) at Pusan National University Hospital from January 2010 to December 2020 was conducted. CSF pleocytosis was defined as white blood cell (WBC) counts ≥9/mm3.

Results

A total of 156 patients with UTI were eligible for this study. Four (2.6%) had concomitant bacteremia. However, no patients had culture-proven bacterial meningitis. In correlation analysis, although weak strength, CSF WBC counts were positively correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP) level (Spearman r = 0.234; P = 0.003). Thirty-three patients had CSF pleocytosis [21.2%; 95% confidential interval (CI), 15.5–28.2]. The time from fever onset to the hospital visit, peripheral blood platelet counts, and CRP level at admission were statistically significant in patients with sterile CSF pleocytosis compared to those without CSF pleocytosis. In the multiple logistic regression, only CRP was independently associated with sterile CSF pleocytosis (cutoff, 3.425 mg/dl; adjusted odds ratio, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.19–6.88). The proportion of fever defervescence by hospital day 2 was 87.9% in patients with CSF pleocytosis and 89.4% in those without CSF pleocytosis (P = 0.759). There was no statistical difference in the fever defervescence curves between the two patient groups (P = 0.567). No patients had neurological manifestations or complications.

Conclusions

Coexisting sterile CSF pleocytosis among febrile infants with UTIs suggest a systemic inflammatory response. However, the clinical outcomes between the two groups were similar. A selective LP should be considered in young infants with evidence of UTI, and inappropriate antibiotic therapy for sterile CSF pleocytosis should be avoided.
Mechanistic evaluation of the inhibitory effect of four SGLT-2 inhibitors on SGLT 1 and SGLT 2 using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling approaches
Authors: Zhang Yu , Xie Panpan , Li Yamei , Chen Zhixing , Shi Aixin
Published: June 2023

Sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT 2, gliflozins) inhibitors are potent orally active drugs approved for managing type 2 diabetes. SGLT 2 inhibitors exert a glucose-lowering effect by suppressing sodium-glucose co-transporters 1 and 2 in the intestinal and kidney proximal tubules. In this study, we developed a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model and simulated the concentrations of ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, henagliflozin, and sotagliflozin in target tissues. We used the perfusion-limited model to illustrate the disposition of SGLT 2 inhibitors in vivo. The modeling parameters were obtained from the references. Simulated steady-state plasma concentration-time curves of the ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, henagliflozin, and sotagliflozin are similar to the clinically observed curves. The 90% prediction interval of simulated excretion of drugs in urine captured the observed data well. Furthermore, all corresponding model-predicted pharmacokinetic parameters fell within a 2-fold prediction error. At the approved doses, we estimated the effective concentrations in intestinal and kidney proximal tubules and calculated the inhibition ratio of SGLT transporters to differentiate the relative inhibition capacities of SGLT1 and 2 in each gliflozin. According to simulation results, four SGLT 2 inhibitors can nearly completely inhibit SGLT 2 transporter at the approved dosages. Sotagliflozin exhibited the highest inhibition activity on SGLT1, followed by ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, and henagliflozin, which showed a lower SGLT 1 inhibitory effect. The PBPK model successfully simulates the specific target tissue concentration that cannot be measured directly and quantifies the relative contribution toward SGLT 1 and 2 for each gliflozin.
Yiwei decoction promotes apoptosis of gastric cancer cells through spleen-derived exosomes
Authors: Chen Yingzhi , Li Yu , Wu Yue , Chen Shiyong , Jin Xiaoming , Chen Xuan , Fei Baoying , Xue Xiaomin , Wu Renzhao , Chai Kequn
Published: June 2023

Yiwei decoction (YWD) is a formula of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that is clinically effective for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer recurrence and metastasis. According to the theory of TCM, YWD tonifies the body and strengthens the body’s resistance to gastric cancer recurrence and metastasis potentially via the immune regulation of the spleen. The aims of the present study were to investigate whether YWD-treated spleen-derived exosomes in rats inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells, to elucidate the anticancer effects of YWD, and to provide evidence supporting the use of YWD as a new clinical treatment for gastric cancer. Spleen-derived exosomes were obtained by ultracentrifugation and identified by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and western blot analysis. The location of the exosomes in tumor cells was then determined by immunofluorescence staining. After tumor cells were treated with different concentrations of exosomes, the effect of exosomes on cell proliferation was determined by cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) and colony formation assays. Tumor cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Particle analysis and western blot analysis identified the material extracted from spleen tissue supernatant as exosomes. Immunofluorescence staining showed that spleen-derived exosomes were taken up by HGC-27 cells, and the CCK8 assay confirmed that the relative tumor inhibition rate of YWD-treated spleen-derived exosomes in the 30 μg/mL reached 70.78% compared to control exosomes in the 30 μg/mL (p < 0.05). Compared to control exosomes in the 30 μg/mL, the colony formation assay indicated that YWD-treated spleen-derived exosomes in the 30 μg/mL colonies have decreased by 99.03% (p < 0.01). Moreover, flow cytometry analysis showed that treatment with YWD-treated exosomes in the 30 μg/mL increased the apoptosis rate to 43.27%, which was significantly higher than that of the control group in the 30 μg/mL (25.91%) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, spleen-derived exosomes from YWD-treated animals inhibit the proliferation of HGC-27 cells via inducing apoptosis, suggesting that spleen-derived exosomes are involved in mediating the antitumor effect of YWD. These results demonstrated a novel exosome-mediated anticancer effect of YWD as a TCM formula, thereby supporting the use of YWD-treated exosomes as a new approach for the clinical treatment of gastric cancer.
Triptolide enhances carboplatin-induced apoptosis by inhibiting nucleotide excision repair (NER) activity in melanoma
Authors: Wang Geng , Guo Hongmin , Ren Yan , Chen Weiyi , Wang Yixuan , Li Jianing , Liu Hua , Xing Jingjun , Zhang Yanru , Li Na
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Carboplatin (CBP) is a DNA damaging drug used to treat various cancers, including advanced melanoma. Yet we still face low response rates and short survival due to resistance. Triptolide (TPL) is considered to have multifunctional antitumor effects and has been confirmed to enhance the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. Herein, we aimed to investigate the knowledge about the effects and mechanisms for the combined application of TPL and CBP against melanoma.

Methods:Melanoma cell lines and xenograft mouse model were used to uncover the antitumor effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms of the alone or combined treatment of TPL and CBP in melanoma. Cell viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and DNA damage were detected by conventional methods. The rate-limiting proteins of the NER pathway were quantitated using PCR and Western blot. Fluorescent reporter plasmids were used to test the NER repair capacity.

Results:Our results showed that the presence of TPL in CBP treatment could selectively inhibit NER pathway activity, and TPL exerts a synergistic effect with CBP to inhibit viability, migration, invasion, and induce apoptosis of A375 and B16 cells. Moreover, combined treatment with TPL and CBP significantly inhibited tumor progression in nude mice by suppressing cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis.

Discussion:This study reveals the NER inhibitor TPL which has great potential in treating melanoma, either alone or in combination with CBP.
Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed subclonal heterogeneity and gene signatures of gemcitabine sensitivity in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Hou Zelin , Lin Jiajing , Ma Yuan , Fang Haizhong , Wu Yuwei , Chen Zhijiang , Lin Xianchao , Lu Fengchun , Wen Shi , Yu Xunbin , Huang Heguang , Pan Yu
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Resistance to gemcitabine is common and critically limits its therapeutic efficacy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Methods: We constructed 17 patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models from PDAC patient samples and identified the most notable responder to gemcitabine by screening the PDX sets in vivo. To analyze tumor evolution and microenvironmental changes pre- and post-chemotherapy, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed.

Results: ScRNA-seq revealed that gemcitabine promoted the expansion of subclones associated with drug resistance and recruited macrophages related to tumor progression and metastasis. We further investigated the particular drug-resistant subclone and established a gemcitabine sensitivity gene panel (GSGP) (SLC46A1, PCSK1N, KRT7, CAV2, and LDHA), dividing PDAC patients into two groups to predict the overall survival (OS) in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) training dataset. The signature was successfully validated in three independent datasets. We also found that 5-GSGP predicted the sensitivity to gemcitabine in PDAC patients in the TCGA training dataset who were treated with gemcitabine.

Discussion and conclusion: Our study provides new insight into the natural selection of tumor cell subclones and remodeling of tumor microenvironment (TME) cells induced by gemcitabine. We revealed a specific drug resistance subclone, and based on the characteristics of this subclone, we constructed a GSGP that can robustly predict gemcitabine sensitivity and prognosis in pancreatic cancer, which provides a theoretical basis for individualized clinical treatment.
Volumetric absorption illumination induced by laser radiation in a 2D thermoelastic microelongated semiconductor body with temperature-dependent properties
Authors: Tayel Ismail M. , Alebraheem Jawdat , Mohammed Mogtaba , Lotfy Khaled , El-Bary Alaa A.
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we construct a new model based on the coupling of thermoelasticity, plasma, and microelongation effect under volumetric absorption of laser pulse. Three different thermoelasticity theories are applied to construct the new model in a 2D thermoelastic semiconducting medium whose properties are temperature-dependent. The medium surface is exposed to laser radiation having spatial and temporal Gaussian distributions; in addition, the surface is considered traction-free. The general solutions were obtained analytically via Laplace and Fourier transformations; for Laplace inverse, we use the well-known Riemann sum approximation. As an application and consistency validation, silicon material is used.
Immune cell status, cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition among breast cancer survivors and healthy women: a cross sectional study
Authors: Arana Echarri Ainhoa , Struszczak Lauren , Beresford Mark , Campbell John P. , Jones Robert H. , Thompson Dylan , Turner James E.
Published: June 2023

Methods: We examined whether immune cell profiles differ between healthy women (n = 38) and breast cancer survivors (n = 27) within 2 years of treatment, and whether any group-differences were influenced by age, cytomegalovirus infection, cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition. Using flow cytometry, CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subsets, including naïve (NA), central memory (CM) and effector cells (EM and EMRA) were identified using CD27/CD45RA. Activation was measured by HLA-DR expression. Stem cell-like memory T cells (TSCMs) were identified using CD95/CD127. B cells, including plasmablasts, memory, immature and naïve cells were identified using CD19/CD27/CD38/CD10. Effector and regulatory Natural Killer cells were identified using CD56/CD16.

Results: Compared to healthy women, CD4+ CM were +Δ21% higher among survivors (p = 0.028) and CD8+ NA were −Δ25% lower (p = 0.034). Across CD4+ and CD8+ subsets, the proportion of activated (HLA-DR+) cells was +Δ31% higher among survivors: CD4+ CM (+Δ25%), CD4+ EM (+Δ32%) and CD4+ EMRA (+Δ43%), total CD8+ (+Δ30%), CD8+ EM (+Δ30%) and CD8+ EMRA (+Δ25%) (p < 0.046). The counts of immature B cells, NK cells and CD16+ NK effector cells were higher among survivors (+Δ100%, +Δ108% and +Δ143% respectively, p < 0.04). Subsequent analyses examined whether statistically significant differences in participant characteristics, influenced immunological differences between groups. Compared to healthy women, survivors were older (56 ± 6 y vs. 45 ± 11 y), had lower cardiorespiratory fitness (V̇O2max mL kg−1 min−1: 28.8 ± 5.0 vs. 36.2 ± 8.5), lower lean mass (42.3 ± 5.0 kg vs. 48.4 ± 15.8 kg), higher body fat (36.3% ± 5.3% vs. 32.7% ± 6.4%) and higher fat mass index (FMI kg/m2: 9.5 ± 2.2 vs. 8.1 ± 2.7) (all p < 0.033). Analysis of covariance revealed divergent moderating effects of age, CMV serostatus, cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition on the differences in immune cell profiles between groups, depending on the cell type examined. Moreover, across all participants, fat mass index was positively associated with the proportion of HLA-DR+ CD4+ EMRA and CD8+ EM/EMRA T cells (Pearson correlation: r > 0.305, p < 0.019). The association between fat mass index and HLA-DR+ CD8+ EMRA T cells withstood statistical adjustment for all variables, including age, CMV serostatus, lean mass and cardiorespiratory fitness, potentially implicating these cells as contributors to inflammatory/immune-dysfunction in overweight/obesity.
A selected organosilicone spray adjuvant does not enhance lethal effects of a pyrethroid and carbamate insecticide on honey bees
Authors: Wernecke Anna , Eckert Jakob H. , Bischoff Gabriela , Forster Rolf , Pistorius Jens , Odemer Richard
Published: June 2023

As part of the agricultural landscape, non-target organisms, such as bees, may be exposed to a cocktail of agrochemicals including insecticides and spray adjuvants like organosilicone surfactants (OSS). While the risks of insecticides are evaluated extensively in their approval process, in most parts of the world however, authorization of adjuvants is performed without prior examination of the effects on bees. Nevertheless, recent laboratory studies evidence that adjuvants can have a toxicity increasing effect when mixed with insecticides. Therefore, this semi-field study aims to test whether an OSS mixed with insecticides can influence the insecticidal activity causing increased effects on bees and bee colonies under more realistic exposure conditions. To answer this question a pyrethroid (Karate Zeon) and a carbamate (Pirimor Granulat) were applied in a highly bee attractive crop (oil seed rape) during bee flight either alone or mixed with the OSS Break-Thru S 301 at field realistic application rates. The following parameters were assessed: mortality, flower visitation, population and brood development of full-sized bee colonies. Our results show that none of the above mentioned parameters was significantly affected by the insecticides alone or their combination with the adjuvant, except for a reduced flower visitation rate in both carbamate treatments (Tukey-HSD, p < 0.05). This indicates that the OSS did not increase mortality to a biologically relevant extent or any of the parameters observed on honey bees and colonies in this trial. Hence, social buffering may have played a crucial role in increasing thresholds for such environmental stressors. We confirm that the results of laboratory studies on individual bees cannot necessarily be extrapolated to the colony level and further trials with additional combinations are required for a well-founded evaluation of these substances.
Identification of an epicuticular wax crystal deficiency gene Brwdm1 in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Song Gengxing , Liu Chuanhong , Fang Bing , Ren Jie , Feng Hui
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The cuticle wax covering the plant surface is a whitish hydrophobic protective barrier in Chinese cabbage, and the epicuticular wax crystal deficiency normally has higher commodity value for a tender texture and glossy appearance. Herein, two allelic epicuticular wax crystal deficiency mutants, wdm1 and wdm7, were obtained from the EMS mutagenesis population of a Chinese cabbage DH line ‘FT’.

Methods

The cuticle wax morphology was observed by Cryo-scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM) and the composition of wax was determined by GC-MS. The candidate mutant gene was found by MutMap and validated by KASP. The function of candidate gene was verified by allelic variation.

Results

The mutants had fewer wax crystals and lower leaf primary alcohol and ester content. Genetic analysis revealed that the epicuticular wax crystal deficiency phenotype was controlled by a recessive nuclear gene, named Brwdm1. MutMap and KASP analyses indicated that BraA01g004350.3C, encoding an alcohol-forming fatty acyl-CoA reductase, was the candidate gene for Brwdm1. A SNP 2,113,772 (C to T) variation in the 6th exon of Brwdm1 in wdm1 led to the 262nd amino acid substitution from threonine (T) to isoleucine (I), which existed in a rather conserved site among the amino acid sequences from Brwdm1 and its homologs. Meanwhile, the substitution changed the three-dimensional structure of Brwdm1. The SNP 2,114,994 (G to A) in the 10th exon of Brwdm1 in wdm7 resulted in the change of the 434th amino acid from valine (V) to isoleucine (I), which occurred in the STERILE domain. KASP genotyping showed that SNP 2,114,994 was co-segregated with glossy phenotype. Compared with the wild type, the relative expression of Brwdm1 was significantly decreased in the leaves, flowers, buds and siliques of wdm1.

Discussion

These results indicated that Brwdm1 was indispensable for the wax crystals formation and its mutation resulted in glossy appearance in Chinese cabbage.
The patients‘ perspective - a qualitative analysis of experiencing a fracture-related infection
Authors: Wimalan Bravena , Rupp Markus , Alt Volker , Walter Nike
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Fracture-related infection is a devastating complication confronting the patient with several challenges. To improve the management and to enhance the patients’ wellbeing the focus of this study was to understand the emotional impact and patients’ experiences during the process to identify challenges, difficulties, and resources. For this, a qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews according to Graneheim and Lundman was performed.

Methods

In total n = 20 patients of a German university orthopedic trauma centre specialized in bone and joint infections were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. The patients were treated at the hospital between 2019 and 2021 and underwent at least one surgery. Individual in-person interviews were performed by one researcher based on a semi-structured guide, which was previously conceptualized. Content analysis according to Graneheim and Lundman was performed on the transcripts by two of the researchers independently.

Results

The following major themes emerged: (i) the emotional and mental aspects highlighting the fact that FRI patients faced severe restrictions in their day-to-day life, which resulted in dependency on others and frustration, as well as future concerns showing that patients could not overcome a state of anxiety and fear even after successful treatment, (ii) socioeconomic consequences confronting patients with consequences on the job and in finances where they often feel helpless, and (iii) resources emphasizing the role of spirituality as a coping strategy and yoga exercises for keeping the positivity.

Conclusion

This study emphasized the challenge of fracture-related infection management and associated consequences from the patients’ perspective. Not being well informed about possible negative outcomes or restrictions makes it harder for patients to accept the situation and patients expressed a need for better information and certainty. Also, patients developed constant anxiety and other psychological disturbances, highlighting the potential benefit of psychological support and patient-peer support to exchange experiences.
Remote work burnout, professional job stress, and employee emotional exhaustion during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Costin Alina , Roman Alina Felicia , Balica Raluca-Stefania
Published: June 2023

Many studies have investigated how organizational support systems, remote work adaptation, and control over scheduling reduced psychological burnout and occupational stress, thus improving employee wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic literature review has analyzed significant published peer-reviewed evidence concerning how remote employees lacking constant organizational support during the COVID-19 outbreak experienced escalated job demands, professional strain, low satisfaction and performance, and increased burnout. Throughout February 2023, a quantitative literature review covering scholarly databases such as the Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest was performed, with the following search terms: “COVID-19” + “remote work burnout,” “COVID-19” + “professional job stress,” and “COVID-19” + “employee emotional exhaustion.” By inspecting research published between 2020 and 2022, a total of 311 articles satisfied the eligibility criteria. Excluding sources in PRISMA terms, 44 empirical sources were finally selected. Methodological quality assessment tools such as Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR), Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS), Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT), and Systematic Review Data Repository (SRDR) were employed. Data visualization tools (VOSviewer and Dimensions), integrating layout algorithms and bibliometric mapping, were harnessed. The scope of this study does not include how taking breaks and time management in a psychologically safe environment prevented remote work burnout and increased productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequent analyses should be developed on how remote work time and stress management—by using burnout assessment tools—will result in coherent workplace behaviors and processes, meeting organizational expectations and reducing emotional stress and workplace pressure.
Developing a mechanism-based therapy for acute psychiatric inpatients with psychotic symptoms: an Intervention Mapping approach
Authors: Gussmann Eva , Lucae Susanne , Falkai Peter , Padberg Frank , Egli Samy , Kopf-Beck Johannes
Published: June 2023

Background

Treatment guidelines for psychosis recommend offering psychotherapy already in the acute illness phase. However, there is a lack of available interventions adapted to the specific needs and key change mechanisms of inpatients experiencing severe symptoms and crisis. In this article we outline the scientific development process of a needs-oriented and mechanism-based group intervention for acute psychiatric inpatients with psychosis (MEBASp).

Methods

To guide our intervention design, we used Intervention Mapping (IM), a six-step framework for developing evidence-based health interventions that consisted of an extensive literature review, an in-depth problem definition and needs analysis, the modeling of change mechanisms and outcomes and the production of an intervention prototype.

Results

Our low-threshold modularized group intervention consists of nine stand-alone sessions (two per week) within three modules and targets different aspects of metacognitive and social change mechanisms. Module I and II aim to reduce acute symptoms by fostering cognitive insight, Module III focuses on reducing distress via cognitive defusion. Therapy contents are adapted from existing metacognitive treatments such as the Metacognitive Training and presented in a destigmatizing, simply understandable and experience-oriented way.

Conclusion

MEBASp is currently evaluated in a single-arm feasibility trial. Using a systematic and rigorous development methodology and providing a detailed description of the development steps demonstrated to be invaluable in improving the intervention’s scientific foundation, validity, and replicability for similar research.
The association between childhood trauma and adolescent cyberbullying: chain mediating roles of emotional intelligence and online social anxiety
Authors: Cao Guanghai , Wei Xinyu , Liu Juan , Li Xianyin
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study explored the impact of childhood trauma on adolescent cyberbullying and the mediating roles of emotional intelligence and online social anxiety between them.

Methods

The Childhood Trauma Scale, Emotional Intelligence Scale, and Chinese Brief Version of the Social Media User Social Anxiety Scale and Cyber Bullying Scale were used to assess 1,046 adolescents [boys: 297, girls: 749, average age = 15.79 years] from four schools in Shandong Province, China. SPSS 25.0 and AMOS 24.0 were used for statistical analysis.

Results

(1) Childhood trauma was positively associated with adolescents’ cyberbullying; (2) Emotional intelligence and online social anxiety played partial mediating roles in the relationship between childhood trauma and cyberbullying; (3) Emotional intelligence and online social anxiety played a chain mediating role in the relationship between childhood trauma and cyberbullying.

Conclusion

This study reveals the relationship and mediating mechanisms between childhood trauma and cyberbullying. It provides implications for the theory and prevention of cyberbullying.
Understanding the roles of the healthcare and child welfare systems in promoting the safety and well-being of children
Authors: Joh-Carnella Nicolette , Livingston Eliza , Kagan-Cassidy Miya , Vandermorris Ashley , Smith Jennifer N. , Lindberg Daniel M. , Fallon Barbara
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The accurate identification and appropriate investigation of child maltreatment is a key priority for promoting the optimal health and development of children. Healthcare providers are often well-positioned professionals to report suspected child abuse and neglect, and, therefore, interact regularly with child welfare workers. Little research has examined the relationship between these two groups of professionals.

Methods

We interviewed healthcare providers and child welfare workers in order to examine the referral and child welfare investigation processes to understand strengths and identify areas of improvement for future collaboration. Thirteen child welfare workers from child welfare agencies and eight healthcare providers from a pediatric tertiary care hospital in Ontario, Canada were interviewed to meet the study’s objectives.

Results

Healthcare providers spoke about positive experiences making reports, factors impacting reporting decisions, areas for improvement (e.g., difficulties communicating, lack of collaboration, and disruption of therapeutic alliance), training, and professional roles. For interviews with child welfare workers, identified themes included healthcare professionals’ perceived expertise and understanding the role of child welfare. Both groups brought up the need for increased collaboration as well as systemic barriers and legacies of harm.

Discussion

Our core finding was a reported lack of communication between the groups of professionals. Other identified barriers in collaboration included a lack of understanding of each other’s roles, hesitation for healthcare providers making reports, as well as legacies of harm and systemic inequities in both institutions. Future research should build on this examination by including the voices of healthcare providers and child welfare workers to identify sustainable solutions for increased collaboration.
Medical malpractice in hospitals—how healthcare staff feel
Authors: Tsai Shang-Feng , Wu Chieh-Liang , Ho Yu-Ying , Lin Pei-Yi , Yao Ai-Chu , Yah Ya-Hui , Hsiao Chia-Min , You Yu Huei , Yeh Te-Feng , Chen Cheng-Hsu
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Literature is limited on quantified acute stress reaction, the impact of event scale on medical staff when facing medical malpractice (MMP), and how to individually care for staff.

Methods

We analyzed data in the Taichung Veterans General Hospital from October 2015 to December 2017, using the Stanford Acute Stress Reaction Questionnaire (SASRQ), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), and the medical malpractice stress syndrome (MMSS).

Results and Discussion

Of all 98 participants, most (78.8%) were women. Most MMPs (74.5%) did not involve injury to patients, and most staff (85.7%) indicated receiving help from the hospital. The internal-consistency evaluations of the three questionnaires showed good validity and reliability. The highest score of IES-R was the construct of intrusion (30.1); the most severe construct of SASRQ was “Marked symptoms of anxiety or increased arousal,” and the most were having mental and mild physical symptoms for MMES. A higher total IES-R was associated with younger age (<40 y/o), and more severe injury on patients (mortality). Those who indicated receiving very much help from the hospital were those having significantly lower SASRQ sores. Our study highlighted that hospital authorities should regularly follow up on staff’s response to MMP. With timely interventions, vicious cycles of bad feelings can be avoided, especially in young, non-doctor, and non-administrative staff.
Additional challenges in reaching hepatitis C elimination goals in Germany due to the COVID-19 pandemic - descriptive analysis of drug prescription data from January 2018 to June 2021
Authors: Meyer Emily D. , Dudareva Sandra , Kollan Christian , Mauss Stefan , Wedemeyer Heiner , Schmidt Daniel , Zimmermann Ruth
Published: June 2023

Effectively treating hepatitis C viral (HCV) infections prevents sequelae and onward transmission. In Germany, HCV drug prescriptions have declined since 2015. During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns impacted the access to HCV care services and HCV treatment. We assessed if the COVID-19 pandemic further decreased treatment prescriptions in Germany. We built log-linear models with monthly HCV drug prescription data from pharmacies from January 2018 - February 2020 (pre-pandemic) to calculate expected prescriptions for March 2020-June 2021 and different pandemic phases. We calculated monthly prescription trends per pandemic phase using log-linear models. Further, we scanned all data for breakpoints. We stratified all data by geographic region and clinical settings. The number of DAA prescriptions in 2020 (n = 16,496, −21%) fell below those of 2019 (n = 20,864) and 2018 (n = 24,947), continuing the declining trend from previous years. The drop in prescriptions was stronger from 2019 to 2020 (−21%) than from 2018 to 2020 (−16%). Observed prescriptions met predictions from March 2020 to June 2021, but not during the first COVID-19 wave (March 2020–May 2020). Prescriptions increased during summer 2020 (June 2020-September 2020) and fell below the pre-pandemic numbers during the following pandemic waves (October 2020 – February 2021 and March 2021 – June 2021). Breakpoints during the first wave indicate that prescriptions plummeted overall, in all clinical settings and in four of six geographic regions. Both, outpatient clinics and private practices prescribed overall as predicted. However, outpatient hospital clinics prescribed 17–39% less than predicted during the first pandemic wave. HCV treatment prescriptions declined but stayed within the lower realms of predicted counts. The strongest decline during the first pandemic wave indicates a temporary HCV treatment gap. Later, prescriptions matched predictions despite of pronounced decreases during the second and third waves. In future pandemics, clinics and private practices need to adapt more rapidly to maintain a continuous access to care. In addition, political strategies should focus more on continuously providing essential medical care during periods of restricted access due to infectious disease outbreaks. The observed decrease in HCV treatment may challenge reaching the HCV elimination goals in Germany by 2030.
Epidemiological characteristics and trends of hand-foot-mouth disease in Shanghai, China from 2011 to 2021
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhang Shan
Published: June 2023

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a kind of infectious disease caused by enterovirus infection. In this study we analysed the epidemiological characteristics and time trends of HFMD, vaccination status and vaccine protection effect assessment of EV71 vaccine from 2011 to 2021 in Huangpu District, Shanghai, China. HFMD cases showed a decreasing trend year by year from 2011 to 2021, from 122 cases reported in 2012 to 7 cases in 2020, and 12 cases in 2021. Etiological diagnosis was CV-A6 in 185 cases (29.8%), CV-A16 in 209 cases (33.7%), EV-A71 in 118 cases (19.0%) and other enteroviruses in 109 cases (17.6%). After the launch of EV71 vaccine, a total of 32,221 doses of EV71 vaccine were administered between 2016 and 2021. The case–control results showed that there was no evidence to support the effectiveness of EV71 vaccine, OR (95% CI) =0.52 (0.12 ~ 2.3), p = 0.37. The epidemic strains have changed. Surveillance and management of HFMD remain very important in the future and EV71 vaccine is considered to be included in National Immunization Program.
Robots with tears can convey enhanced sadness and elicit support intentions
Authors: Yasuhara Akiko , Takehara Takuma
Published: June 2023

The behaviour of shedding tears is a unique human expression of emotion. Human tears have an emotional signalling function that conveys sadness and a social signalling function that elicits support intention from others. The present study aimed to clarify whether the tears of robots have the same emotional and social signalling functions as human tears, using methods employed in previous studies conducted on human tears. Tear processing was applied to robot pictures to create pictures with and without tears, which were used as visual stimuli. In Study 1, the participants viewed pictures of robots with and without tears and rated the intensity of the emotion experienced by the robot in the picture. The results showed that adding tears to a robot’s picture significantly increased the rated intensity of sadness. Study 2 measured support intentions towards a robot by presenting a robot’s picture with a scenario. The results showed that adding tears to the robot’s picture also increased the support intentions indicating that robot tears have emotional and social signalling functions similar to those of human tears.
Effect of scattering angle on DSCOVR/EPIC observations
Authors: Wen Guoyong , Marshak Alexander
Published: June 2023

The Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera (EPIC) on the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) routinely captures reflected radiation from the whole sunlit side of the Earth in the near backward direction to monitor the changing planet. The instrument had routinely operated until 27 June 2019, when the spacecraft was placed in an extended safe hold due to degradation of an inertial navigation unit. DSCOVR returned to full operations on 2 March 2020. Since then, the range of scattering angles between the incident sunlight and sensor direction has been larger than before and the largest scattering angle reaches ∼178°, only 2° from perfect backscattering, proving a unique opportunity to study the top-of-atmosphere (TOA) reflectance under such extreme conditions. In the paper, we compare EPIC global spectral reflectances in 2021–2016. We found that there are four occasions when the scattering angle reaches about 178° and associated with them enhanced global daily average spectral reflectances in 2021. The scattering angle related reflectance enhancements are not found in 2016 data when the maximum scattering angle is about 174.5°. CERES data do not show such occasions in global daily reflected shortwave flux. As a result, those enhanced reflectance occasions are primarily due to the change in scattering angle. The enhancement due to changes in scattering angle depends strongly on wavelength, primarily because of wavelength dependence of cloud scattering phase function. Radiative transfer calculations show that the change in scattering angles has the largest impact on reflectance in the red and NIR channels at 680 nm and 780 nm and the smallest influence on reflectance in the UV channel at 388 nm, consistent with EPIC observations. The change of global average cloud amount also plays an important role in the reflectance enhancement. The influence of the cloud effect depends on whether the change is in phase or not with the change of scattering angle.
The African Gender and Development Index: an engendered and culturally sensitive statistical tool
Authors: Charmes Jacques , Wieringa Saskia E. , Ruzvidzo Thokozile , Rosalie Gonzaque
Published: June 2023

In 2004 the African Union adopted an innovative gender index, the Afriacn Gender and Development Index (AGDI). It is composed of the quantitative Gender Status Index (GSI) and the qualitative African Women's Progress Scorecard (AWPS). The tool is built on the use of national data collected by a national team of specialists. Since the beginning three cycles of implementation have occurred. After the last cycle the AGDI was revised. In this article the authors assess the implementation of the AGDI, against the background of other gender indices, and discuss the latest revisions.
The influence of cultivated land transfer and Internet use on crop rotation
Authors: Liang Chang’an , Du Guoming , Faye Bonoua
Published: June 2023

In the context of China’s digital transformation and agricultural modernization, exploring the impact of cultivated land transfer and Internet use on crop rotation holds significant importance for promoting sustainable use of cultivated land and ensuring the supply of agricultural products. This study utilizes an ordered logistic regression model to investigate this issue, based on a social survey of 489 households in Heilongjiang Province. Our findings reveal that (1) cultivated land transfer and Internet use both promote crop rotation, but cultivated land transfer is more efficient than Internet use. In addition, two-years cultivated land transfer are more effective than one-year, (2) The analysis of the mechanism indicates that both have the most significant promotion effect in the maize-soybean transition zone, and the promotion effect of cultivated land transfer is mainly observed in the older age group, while Internet use is mainly observed in the younger age group. As aging farmers become more critical, the role of cultivated land transfer does not change significantly, while the role of Internet use decreases. Furthermore, the interaction effect of cultivated land transfer and Internet use is not conducive to crop rotation in the maize-soybean transition zone, but it can facilitate crop rotation in older age groups.