bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on resonance mechanism of articulated train car body based on modal vibration extraction method
Authors: Liu Guangyu , Gong Dao , Zhou Jinsong
Published: June 2024

The physical vibration of railway train car body is the superposition of various modal vibrations of the car body. In this study, a modal vibration extraction method (MVEM) based on singular value decomposition and least squares fitting is proposed to decouple the physical vibration of the car body into modal vibrations. Then, from the perspective of modal vibration energy, the calculation method of modal vibration contribution (MVC) is proposed, and the main participating modes of the car body are tracked in the process of train operation, and the resonance mechanism of articulated train car body is analyzed based on them. The results show that the end constraint forms of the head car body and the middle car body of the articulated train are different, resulting in the influence of the velocity on the yaw vibration energy of the head car body is obviously greater than that of the middle car body; due to the articulated effect between the train car bodies, the yaw motion of each car body is aggravated, which further worsens the lateral ride quality of the car body floor above the bogie; with the increase of train running speed, the dominant modes contributing to car body vibration change from rigid modes to elastic modes. The first-order vertical bending mode, first-order lateral bending mode, and diamond-shaped deformation mode contribute greatly to car body vibration, and there is no resonance between them and bogie frame. In fact, geometric filtering is the reason for the resonance of the car body. Moreover, the geometric filtering phenomenon occurs in the vehicle with symmetric structure (middle vehicle) and the vehicle with incomplete symmetric structure (head vehicle), and the geometric filtering phenomenon also exists in the vertical and lateral vibration of the vehicle.
Adoption of Virtual Reality Headsets: The Role of Metaverse Trials for Consumers’ Usage and Purchase Intentions
Authors: Hennig-Thurau Thorsten , Herting Alina M. , Jütte David
Published: June 2024

Stand-alone virtual reality (VR) headsets such as Meta's Quest series enable highly immersive social experiences. As part of a trend toward a trillion-dollar “metaverse,” a virtual social environment for which headsets constitute the major access device, these headsets have been predicted to grow the market for VR hardware substantially. Despite huge investments from companies, adoption of headsets has not reached the mass market yet. While some see the reason in the limited value that accessing the metaverse via VR headsets offers consumers, others blame the experience character of headsets as an adoption barrier. To shed light on this market-shaping issue, this research introduces the concept of metaverse trials as a special case of consumer product trials in which consumers test VR headsets for engaging in direct experiences in virtual worlds together with others, and it explores how such a trial affects headset adoption. Using a sample of almost 100 participants of an extensive metaverse trial and a matched sample of nontrialists, the authors find trialists’ intention to use VR headsets in the future to be higher, while their intention to purchase VR headsets is lower. They also study determinants and outcomes of key facets of the metaverse experience.
Artificial intelligence and assisted reproductive technology: Applying a reproductive justice lens
Authors: Homanen Riikka , McBride Neil , Hudson Nicky
Published: June 2024

In recent years, health-data-driven artificial intelligence and machine learning applications have been introduced to many areas of medicine. In the field of assisted reproduction, artificial intelligence and machine learning applications and related technologies have been hailed as (potentially) significant and ground-breaking, not least because they promise standardisation and automation in in-vitro fertilisation clinics – a precondition for scaling up and branching out in the fertility bioindustry. Artificial intelligence data-driven algorithms promise time- and cost-effective selection of ‘high-quality’ reproductive cells and successful personalised treatments. In this essay, we aim to critically discuss artificial intelligence as a technological clinical practice, which is currently moving from bench to bedside internationally. Through an analytic framework of reproductive justice, we propose that introducing artificial intelligence into this already stratified context threatens to black-box health disparities and to generate what we refer to as ‘hyper-stratifications’ of reproduction in the context of rising health and social disparities in the European context. As feminist, social science and bioethics scholars, we are all too aware of how reproductive technologies reinforce normativities rather than unravel them. We cannot presume that artificial intelligence is an ethical technological agent or user of health data but, instead, need to keep a critical eye on the moral ambivalence of emerging and evolving artificial intelligence-assisted reproduction technologies practices and their gendered consequences. Given the current hype around artificial intelligence, but also with concerns around the fast development and deployment of artificial intelligence generally and in artificial intelligence-assisted reproduction technologies particularly in mind, there is an urgent need to engage in critical feminist discussion of such developments.
Unveiling impulse buying patterns in travel live-streaming through the lens of social cognitive theory
Authors: Lim Xin-Jean , Luo Xi , Cheah Jun-Hwa , Tan Kim-Lim , Hall C. Michael
Published: June 2024

Grounded in the social cognitive theory, the main aim of this study is to explore the impact of telepresence, social presence, and emotional engagement on impulsive buying tendencies within the realm of travel live-streaming (TLS). To examine further, the moderating effect of guidance shopping was included. An online questionnaire was distributed to 332 live-streaming viewers from China, and the collected data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that telepresence and social presence exert significant influences on emotional engagement and impulsive buying tendencies. Notably, the study identifies the mediating effect of emotional engagement and the moderating effect of guidance shopping. In practice, this research highlights the importance of streamers leveraging TLS platform functionalities to amplify the sense of “presence” and cultivate stronger emotional connections with viewers, thereby stimulating impulse buying. Additionally, streamers are encouraged to guide viewers in their decision-making process, addressing concerns to elevate engagement levels.
The impact of telehealth care on escalation to emergency care: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Scott Anna Mae , Sanders Sharon , Atkins Tiffany , van der Merwe Madeleen , Sunner Carla , Clark Justin , Glasziou Paul
Published: June 2024

Objective

We compared the impact of accessing healthcare (1) by telehealth (via telephone or video) vs face-to-face; and (2) by telephone vs video telehealth care, on escalation to emergency care.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL to 24 July 2023; and conducted a citation analysis on 19 September 2023. We included randomised controlled trials. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Tool 2. We calculated risk ratios for dichotomous outcomes and standardised mean difference for continuous outcomes.

Results

Ten trials compared telehealth (five telephone, four video, one both) to face-to-face care. Six were overall low, three some concerns and one high risk of bias. There were no differences between telehealth and face-to-face for visits to the emergency department (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.29), hospitalisations up to 12 months (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.41), deaths or other adverse events. Costs of care were similar, as were patient satisfaction scores. Six trials compared telephone to video telehealth: three were overall low, two some concerns, and one high risk of bias. There were no differences between telephone and video for visits to the emergency department (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.41 to 1.12), hospitalisations (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.48), deaths, other adverse events, costs, or patient satisfaction. Healthcare provider satisfaction was high.

Conclusions

Telehealth care – delivered by telephone or by video – may be an appropriate alternative to face-to-face provision of care, as it does not increase the likelihood of escalation of care to the emergency department for patients in primary care, hospital outpatients, post-discharge patients or residents in aged care.
Impact of a psychoeducational intervention on willingness to seek help for depression among African American young adults
Authors: Bamgbade Benita A. , Barner Jamie C. , Brown Carolyn M. , Ford Kentya H. , Lawson William B. , Burdine Kimberly
Published: June 2024

Despite the success of psychoeducational interventions at improving willingness to seek professional help for mental illness, limited research explores the effect of culturally tailored psychoeducational interventions on African American (AA) college students. The objective of this study was to determine if exposure to a culturally relevant psychoeducational intervention impacted AA young adult attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, depression stigma, disclosure and willingness to seek help for depression. We conducted a one-group pre- and post-test intervention study of AA college students (N = 75). The 2.5-h intervention featured presentations, large-group discussions, videos, and active learning exercises and was guided by applying a cultural adaptation framework to an existing psychoeducational intervention. The self-administered surveys were created using the Theory of Planned Behavior as a guide. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests. A total of 70 participants completed both pre- and post-test surveys. Overall, willingness, attitude, and disclosure significantly increased after the intervention ( p < .001). Additionally, depression stigma significantly decreased after the intervention, indicating fewer stigmatizing beliefs about depression ( p < .001). Willingness to seek help for depression among AA college students can be improved through culturally relevant and interactive psychoeducational interventions. These interventions can also improve negative attitudes and perceived behavioral control toward seeking help and decrease stigmatizing beliefs. More research is needed to explore the longitudinal impact of culturally relevant psychoeducational interventions and how they may affect actual help-seeking behavior among AA college students.
#Values for money? The neoliberal construction of “values” across Instagram language communities
Authors: Trillò Tommaso , Green Avishai
Published: June 2024

While the term “values” is widely invoked to construct identities, set boundaries, and justify decisions, its use has evaded systematic analysis. This is particularly intriguing in the context of social media, where the term simultaneously reflects and shapes what is cherished by people worldwide. Addressing this void, we analyzed how Instagram users from different language communities – English, German, Italian, Korean, and Japanese – frame the term. Surprisingly, we found that “values” is used not for ethical or political arguments, but as a marketing tool. Across countries, professionals promise to assist individuals in discovering their “authentic” values and leveraging them for material success and a sense of meaning. Instagram, a commercially oriented platform promoting neoliberal values, serves as a powerful agent that appears to outweigh cultural differences. We propose the “funnel” as a metaphor to depict a process where platforms direct varied interpretations of complex concepts into ones that serve their own interests.
Internet access, place and belonging in the British asylum system
Authors: Yazici Edanur
Published: June 2024

It is widely acknowledged that digital technologies are a part of everyday life. However, the UK Home Office does not consider communication or transport to be ‘essential needs’ for people seeking asylum. One Gigabyte of mobile data can cost up to 10% of weekly asylum support payments and a single bus ticket another 10%. By asking who can move and connect, this article explores the relationship between digital and physical spaces among people seeking asylum. Drawing on an ethnographic study, it argues that access to the Internet can facilitate a sense of belonging in physical and digital space. This, however, is constrained by “real-world” power relations, the consumer orientation of web design and the physical exclusions of the asylum system. The article concludes that digital exclusion, its intersections with physical exclusions as well as race, class and legal status have been brought into even sharper relief by COVID-19.
Book review: J. Pedro-Carañana, E. Herrera-Huérfano, and J. O. Almanza (Eds.), Communicative Justice in the Pluriverse: An International Dialogue
Authors: Chirwa John Aubrey
Published: June 2024

J. Pedro-Carañana, E. Herrera-Huérfano, and J. O. Almanza (Eds.), Communicative Justice in the Pluriverse: An International Dialogue (New York: Routledge, 2023), 200 pp., £125.00 (hardback); £34.99 (paperback); £31.49 (eBook), ISBN:9781032326184.
The risk and protective factors for entering organized crime groups and their association with different entering mechanisms: A systematic review using ASReview
Authors: Adamse Ida , Eichelsheim Veroni , Blokland Arjan , Schoonmade Linda
Published: June 2024

The aims of the current systematic review are to provide an overview of the available evidence concerning the risk and protective factors for entering organized crime groups (OCGs), to explore which entry mechanisms for entering OCGs are distinguished in the literature, and to assess whether different sets of risk and protective factors could be identified for each of these entry mechanisms. To achieve these aims, a systematic literature search for qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies was performed up to 19 April 2021. To be included in the current review, studies had to be of empirical nature and published in either English or Dutch. ASReview was used to facilitate the inclusion process, a reference check of the included studies was performed, and all included studies in prior reviews on this topic were checked for inclusion. This process resulted in 51 included studies. Relevant study and sample characteristics, information on risk and protective factors, and indicated entry mechanisms were derived from the included studies. In line with earlier reviews, we find relatively strong evidence that being male, belonging to an ethnic minority group, committing certain crimes prior to entry at a young(er) age, committing multiple offenses without being specialized, and having a criminally involved family and/or friends are risk factors for entering OCGs. Entering OCGs occurs via four different entry mechanisms: active recruitment, soliciting for membership, growing into and self-setup. Based on the included studies, the risk and protective factors for entering OCGs that are associated with these different entry mechanisms into OCGs seem to overlap. Although the current review provides grounds to suggest that, in addition to a general set of risk and protective factors for entering OCGs, there might be different risk and protective factors associated with different entry mechanisms, longitudinal prospective studies are needed to substantiate this suggestion.
Enhancing Qualitative and Quantitative Data Linkages in Complex Mixed Methods Designs: Illustrations From a Multi-phase Healthcare Delivery Study
Authors: Chandanabhumma P. Paul , Swaminathan Sriram , Cabrera Lourdes M. , Hou Hechuan , Yang Guangyu , Kim K. Dennie , Janda Allison M. , Nassar Khalil , Malani Preeti N. , Zhang Min , Funk Russell J. , Aaronson Keith D. , Wu Justine P. , Pagani Francis D. , Likosky Donald S.
Published: June 2024

While mixed methods research is increasingly used to examine determinants of unwarranted variability in healthcare delivery and outcomes, novel integrative approaches are required to meet the needs of mixed methods healthcare delivery research. This article describes novel refining strategies that enhance the linkage between qualitative and quantitative dimensions of a mixed methods healthcare delivery research study. Leveraging our study experiences, this paper demonstrates several refining strategies: (1) using mediated allocation concealment to facilitate qualitative sampling; (2) informing qualitative inquiry through quantitative analytics; and (3) training and immersing multidisciplinary researchers in qualitative data collection and analysis. Developing and implementing strategies in mixed methods healthcare delivery research could advance methodological rigor and strengthen multidisciplinary collaboration.
Integrated Data Collection in Q Methodology: Using ChatGPT From Concourse to Q-sample to Q-sort
Authors: Ramlo Susan E.
Published: June 2024

Data collection in mixed methods research (MMR) can present challenges. To demonstrate the inherently mixed data collection within Q methodology (Q-technique), we start by generating a concourse of subjective statements with ChatGPT. A structured Q-sample is selected from the concourse using Fisher’s Design of Experiments which came from agricultural research and involves small sample theory and variance design. The process of the Q-sort involves each participant placing the Q-sample’s numbered subjective items into a continuum (grid) of Most Like to Most Unlike their view on the topic. Thus, the participants transform the subjective statements into a qualitative–quantitative hybrid representation of their inner subjectivity. The contribution to MMR is continuing the dialogue for integrated data collection via a specific example.
Endocrine adverse events in patients with cancer receiving perioperative immune checkpoint blockade: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhou Susu , Horita Nobuyuki , Shao Theresa , Harrington Matthew , Fujiwara Yu
Published: June 2024

Background:

Perioperative use of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) improves survival in patients with early-stage cancer. Treatment-related adverse events (AEs), frequently involve the endocrine system which may increase perioperative complications and affect quality of life.

Objective:

We conducted a meta-analysis to elucidate the impact of adding ICB to conventional neoadjuvant/adjuvant therapy on the incidence of endocrine AEs.

Design:

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomize-controlled trials (RCTs).

Data sources and methods:

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane library was performed for RCTs comparing groups with and without the addition of ICB to conventional perioperative therapy in patients with cancer. Outcomes included all-grade and grade 3–5 thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, hypophysitis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and hyperglycemia. The odds ratios (ORs) of all-grade and grade 3–5 endocrine were pooled using the random-effect model meta-analysis.

Results:

Twenty-four RCTs comprising 12,199 patients were identified for meta-analysis. The addition of ICB was associated with higher incidence of thyroiditis [all grade: OR = 3.53 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.88–6.64)], hyperthyroidism [all-grade: 7.18 (4.30–12.01); grade 3–5: 3.93 (1.21–12.82)], hypothyroidism [all-grade: 5.39 (3.68–7.90); grade 3–5: 3.63 (1.18–11.11)], adrenal insufficiency [all-grade: 3.82 (1.88–7.79); grade 3–5: 5.91 (2.36–14.82)], hypophysitis [all-grade: 10.29 (4.97–21.3); grade 3–5: 5.80 (1.99–16.92)], and type 1 diabetes mellitus [all-grade: 2.24 (1.06–4.74); grade 3–5: 3.49 (1.21–10.08)]. The cumulative incidence of each grade 3–5 endocrine AE was low (<1.3%). No grade 5 AEs leading to death were observed.

Conclusion:

The addition of neoadjuvant/adjuvant ICB to conventional therapy was associated with an increased incidence of several endocrine AEs. Clinicians should be aware of the risk of endocrinopathy from the perioperative ICB use to facilitate risk–benefit discussion with patients with early-stage cancer.

Trial registration:

The protocol of this research was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022332624).
Diabetes Technology and Waste: A Real-World Study in a Specialized Practice in Germany
Authors: Petry Sebastian F. , Petry Friedrich W. , Petry Johannes K. , Gäth Stefan , Heinemann Lutz
Published: June 2024

Background:

Diabetes technology is a fundamental part of modern diabetes therapy. Its widespread usage is associated with an increasing amount of “diabetes technology waste.” The aim of this study was to quantify this waste in a real-world situation in a specialized diabetes practice in Germany.

Methods:

Eighty patients with diabetes and insulin treatment participated and collected all of their therapy-associated waste for three months. Their attitude toward sustainability of antidiabetic therapy, waste generation, and their own waste reduction/separation behavior was surveyed.

Results:

In total, 23 707 pieces of therapy-associated waste were collected. They comprised 5362 test strips, 630 glucose sensors, 14 619 needles, 519 insulin cartridges, 599 pens, and 1463 pieces of aids for insulin pump therapy. Type and quantity of the collected waste depended on the type of diabetes and the respective therapy, ie, multiple daily injections, usage of glucose sensors, or pump therapy. Most participants (92%) were surprised by the amounts of waste and reported an increased awareness toward the resource consumption of their therapy (87%). The survey indicated an enhanced interest in waste separation (94%) and a demand for the reduction and recycling of devices/aids (93%).

Conclusions:

Our data revealed the amount and complexity of the waste generated by modern diabetes therapy. Extrapolating these data, it can be estimated that around 1.2 billion pieces of diabetes technology waste are generated in Germany per year. The major concern of the study participants was the limited number of recycling options. A clear demand for improved sustainability of the medical products was expressed.
Capitalist urbanization in the post-neoliberal and de-globalizing world economy: A minor critical engagement with VIP-Urbanism literature
Authors: Farahani Ilia
Published: June 2024

The special issue “Contesting VIP Urbanism” includes timely analytical interventions to contest an increasing tendency to luxury investments in many capitalist cities of the past decades. This essay raises some theoretical and empirical questions concerning the present state of globalization and neoliberalism as two defining characteristics of an era of the global capitalist economy in which both the tendency toward VIP-Urbanism and the approaches criticizing it arise. It aims to extend the discussion on contesting the tendency toward VIP-Urbanism by drawing attention to questions regarding the role of macroeconomic structural forces that enable or hinder urban governance. In response to the changing historical context, the essay proposes developing a multi-scalar and inter-sectoral framework, which also includes reintroducing the national level into urban geographic inquiry to contextualize micro dynamics of investments over individual land plots by individual investors.
E-therapists’ views on the acceptability and feasibility of an internet-administered, guided, low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy intervention for parents of children treated for cancer: A qualitative study
Authors: Reuther Christina , Lundgren Johan , Gottvall Maria , Ljungberg Johan , Woodford Joanne , Essen Louise von
Published: June 2024

Background

Childhood cancer treatment completion can be a period of vulnerability for parents and is associated with mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety. We developed an internet-administered, guided, low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy-based self-help intervention (EJDeR) for parents delivered on the U-CARE-portal (Portal). The acceptability and feasibility of EJDeR and study procedures were examined using a single-arm feasibility trial (ENGAGE). Results indicated that EJDeR and ENGAGE study procedures are acceptable and feasible, however, a need for clinical and technical modifications to EJDeR and refinements to ENGAGE study procedures was identified.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the acceptability and feasibility of EJDeR and ENGAGE study procedures from the perspective of e-therapists to inform clinical and technical modifications to EJDeR and refinements to study procedures prior to progression to a superiority randomised controlled trial.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 e-therapists. Data were analysed using manifest content analysis.

Results

We identified three categories relating to the acceptability and feasibility of EJDeR: (a) Support to e-therapists (subcategories: Clinical supervision and Technical difficulties); (b) Guidance to parents (subcategories: Support protocols and Synchronous communication); and (c) Content (subcategories: Relevancy of the intervention and Pacing of the intervention). We identified four categories relating to the acceptability and feasibility of study procedures: (a) Recruitment and training of e-therapists (subcategories: Definition of the role and Training program); (b) Retention of parents (subcategories: Parent suitability and screening and Frequency of weekly Portal assessments); (c) Retention of e-therapists (subcategories: Administrative requirements and Communication with the research team); and (d) The Portal.

Conclusions

EJDeR and study procedures were considered acceptable and feasible, however, clinical and technical modifications and refinements to study procedures were suggested to enhance acceptability and feasibility. Results may also inform implementation considerations for both EJDeR and other similar digital psychological interventions.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN 57233429
Palestine’s Great Flood: Part II
Authors: Ajl Max
Published: June 2024

This is the second part of a two-part article on the Palestinian question. This part treats the development and trajectory of anticolonial nationalism, focusing on the post-1970s period in the Gaza Strip. It treats the growth and development of the main armed factions in the Strip, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad, and then discusses Israeli policies toward Palestine, broadly, and the Gaza Strip, in particular. It analyses the closure policy post-2006 and the growth of armed organizing and capacity. It then discusses the regional dimensions. It finally engages with different explanations for US policy toward Palestine, discussing the “Israel Lobby” thesis in its various iterations. It concludes with some reflections on contemporary exile organizing and intellectual production.
Dirty Tracks Across the Border: Global Operations of Extraction, Labour and Migration at a Railway Station on the Bihar–Nepal Border
Authors: Kumar Mithilesh
Published: June 2024

This article is based on an ethnography of the railway siding at Raxaul Junction railway station, a town on the Bihar–Nepal border, which finds itself at the intersection of a massive logistical exercise by China in the form of the Belt Road Initiative, counter-logistical apparatus building by India and incremental hardening of an otherwise ‘open’ border by Nepal. The article will analyse in detail the intricate network of the labour market that operates at and through the railway siding. It will also trace the origins of commodities used in the cement factories in the industrial corridor of Nepal that are extracted from some of the most deprived regions of India at great human and social costs. Finally, I will describe some of the latest exercises in logistical operations such as containerisation, opening of a new land port, the Integrated Check Post in Raxaul and operationalisation of a new dedicated freight corridor from Vishakhapatnam port to Raxaul, which is reconfiguring the logistical arrangements away from Kolkata and Haldia port and their implications on labour and labour practices. The Raxaul railway siding will be, hence, studied on multiple scales: global, national and local. The article will also try to understand the transformation of this very peculiar border town located on a unique border. This transformation is creating new labour processes, migratory processes and networks, and new modes of production of workers’ subjectivities and resistance along the global logistical apparatus and supply chains. It will also open up the possibilities of thinking conceptually about ‘South Asian Border Systems’.
Sexual Harassment of Female Students in Afghanistan Universities: A Transverse Study
Authors: Ehsan Hedayatullah , Hashimi Zainab , Jalily Sulaiman , Noorandish Manizha , Halim Tooba , Muhib Roya , Mayar Swaida
Published: June 2024

Background:

Violence against females is a violation of human rights and discrimination, causing physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm, and involves threats of coercion or arbitrary deprivation of freedom.

Aim:

The goal of this study was to find solutions that speak volumes about the proactive approach toward addressing and mitigating sexual harassment. This study has the potential to drive meaningful change and improve the safety and well-being of women within university settings in Afghanistan.

Methodology:

The method used in this study was an online survey containing 19 questions. Overall, 69 students from different universities, most of them from Kabul University of Medical Sciences, participated in the survey.

Result:

The study shows a high prevalence of harassment among female Afghan university students, with verbal assaults being the most common form and many witnessing only harassments. Participants generally support legal measures against harassment, but fear of identification, blame, or confusion may lead to underreporting or concealment of incidents due to factors like fear of identification or blame. The study underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy, including legal reforms, safe reporting mechanisms, supportive environments, and cultural barriers, to eradicate sexual harassment in academic settings.

Conclusion:

Sexual harassment is a global issue, particularly prevalent in Afghanistan, but lack of accurate statistics has hindered effective prevention. Surveys and research can provide reliable data, enabling universities to understand the extent of the issue and implement targeted interventions. This proactive approach helps create safer academic environments, highlighting the importance of accurate statistics in addressing sexual assault among female students.
Altered immunity in migraine: a comprehensive scoping review
Authors: Ha Woo-Seok , Chu Min Kyung
Published: June 2024

Background

The pathogenesis of migraine remains unclear; however, a large body of evidence supports the hypothesis that immunological mechanisms play a key role. Therefore, we aimed to review current studies on altered immunity in individuals with migraine during and outside attacks.

Methods

We searched the PubMed database to investigate immunological changes in patients with migraine. We then added other relevant articles on altered immunity in migraine to our search.

Results

Database screening identified 1,102 articles, of which 41 were selected. We added another 104 relevant articles. We found studies reporting elevated interictal levels of some proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-6 and TNF-α. Anti-inflammatory cytokines showed various findings, such as increased TGF-β and decreased IL-10. Other changes in humoral immunity included increased levels of chemokines, adhesion molecules, and matrix metalloproteinases; activation of the complement system; and increased IgM and IgA. Changes in cellular immunity included an increase in T helper cells, decreased cytotoxic T cells, decreased regulatory T cells, and an increase in a subset of natural killer cells. A significant comorbidity of autoimmune and allergic diseases with migraine was observed.

Conclusions

Our review summarizes the findings regarding altered humoral and cellular immunological findings in human migraine. We highlight the possible involvement of immunological mechanisms in the pathogenesis of migraine. However, further studies are needed to expand our knowledge of the exact role of immunological mechanisms in migraine pathogenesis.
Genome sequencing of captive white tigers from Bangladesh
Authors: Das Ashutosh , Suvo Md Shahadat Hossain , Shaha Mishuk , Gupta Mukta Das
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The Bengal tiger Panthera tigris tigris, is an emblematic animal for Bangladesh. Despite being the apex predator in the wild, their number is decreasing due to anthropogenic activities such as hunting, urbanization, expansion of agriculture and deforestation. By contrast, captive tigers are flourishing due to practical conservation efforts. Breeding within the small captive population can produce inbreeding depression and genetic bottlenecks, which may limit the success of conservation efforts. Despite past decades of research, a comprehensive database on genetic variation in the captive and wild Bengal tigers in Bangladesh still needs to be included. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the White Bengal tiger genome to create a resource for future studies to understand variation underlying important functional traits.

Data description

Blood samples from Chattogram Zoo were collected for three white Bengal tigers. Genomic DNA for all collected samples were extracted using a commercial DNA extraction kit. Whole genome sequencing was performed using a DNBseq platform. We generated 77 Gb of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data for three white Bengal tigers (Average 11X coverage/sample). The data we generated will establish a paradigm for tiger research in Bangladesh by providing a genomic resource for future functional studies on the Bengal white tiger.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the KNOX family and its diverse roles in response to growth and abiotic tolerance in sweet potato and its two diploid relatives
Authors: Jia Li-Cong , Yang Zi-Tong , Shang Li-Li , He Shao-Zhen , Zhang Huan , Li Xu , Xin Guo-Sheng
Published: June 2024

KNOXs, a type of homeobox genes that encode atypical homeobox proteins, play an essential role in the regulation of growth and development, hormonal response, and abiotic stress in plants. However, the KNOX gene family has not been explored in sweet potato. In this study, through sequence alignment, genomic structure analysis, and phylogenetic characterization, 17, 12 and 11 KNOXs in sweet potato (I. batatas, 2n = 6x = 90) and its two diploid relatives I. trifida (2n = 2x = 30) and I. triloba (2n = 2x = 30) were identified. The protein physicochemical properties, chromosome localization, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, protein interaction network, cis-elements of promoters, tissue-specific expression and expression patterns under hormone treatment and abiotic stresses of these 40 KNOX genes were systematically studied. IbKNOX4, -5, and − 6 were highly expressed in the leaves of the high-yield varieties Longshu9 and Xushu18. IbKNOX3 and IbKNOX8 in Class I were upregulated in initial storage roots compared to fibrous roots. IbKNOXs in Class M were specifically expressed in the stem tip and hardly expressed in other tissues. Moreover, IbKNOX2 and − 6, and their homologous genes were induced by PEG/mannitol and NaCl treatments. The results showed that KNOXs were involved in regulating growth and development, hormone crosstalk and abiotic stress responses between sweet potato and its two diploid relatives. This study provides a comparison of these KNOX genes in sweet potato and its two diploid relatives and a theoretical basis for functional studies.
Phylogenetic analysis and divergence time estimation of Lycium species in China based on the chloroplast genomes
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Erdong , Wei Yuqing , Zheng Guoqi
Published: June 2024

Background

Lycium is an economically and ecologically important genus of shrubs, consisting of approximately 70 species distributed worldwide, 15 of which are located in China. Despite the economic and ecological importance of Lycium, its phylogeny, interspecific relationships, and evolutionary history remain relatively unknown. In this study, we constructed a phylogeny and estimated divergence time based on the chloroplast genomes (CPGs) of 15 species, including subspecies, of the genus Lycium from China.

Results

We sequenced and annotated 15 CPGs in this study. Comparative analysis of these genomes from these Lycium species revealed a typical quadripartite structure, with a total sequence length ranging from 154,890 to 155,677 base pairs (bp). The CPGs was highly conserved and moderately differentiated. Through annotation, we identified a total of 128–132 genes. Analysis of the boundaries of inverted repeat (IR) regions showed consistent positioning: the junctions of the IRb/LSC region were located in rps19 in all Lycium species, IRb/SSC between the ycf1 and ndhF genes, and SSC/IRa within the ycf1 gene. Sequence variation in the SSC region exceeded that in the IR region. We did not detect major expansions or contractions in the IR region or rearrangements or insertions in the CPGs of the 15 Lycium species. Comparative analyses revealed five hotspot regions in the CPG: trnR(UCU), atpF-atpH, ycf3-trnS(GGA), trnS(GGA), and trnL-UAG, which could potentially serve as molecular markers. In addition, phylogenetic tree construction based on the CPG indicated that the 15 Lycium species formed a monophyletic group and were divided into two typical subbranches and three minor branches. Molecular dating suggested that Lycium diverged from its sister genus approximately 17.7 million years ago (Mya) and species diversification within the Lycium species of China primarily occurred during the recent Pliocene epoch.

Conclusion

The divergence time estimation presented in this study will facilitate future research on Lycium, aid in species differentiation, and facilitate diverse investigations into this economically and ecologically important genus.
Low oxygen environment effect on the tomato cell wall composition during the fruit ripening process
Authors: Leszczuk Agata , Kutyrieva-Nowak Nataliia , Nowak Artur , Nosalewicz Artur , Zdunek Artur
Published: June 2024

Background

Oxygen concentration is a key characteristic of the fruit storage environment determining shelf life and fruit quality. The aim of the work was to identify cell wall components that are related to the response to low oxygen conditions in fruit and to determine the effects of such conditions on the ripening process. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruits at different stages of the ripening process were stored in an anoxic and hypoxic environment, at 0% and 5% oxygen concentrations, respectively. We used comprehensive and comparative methods: from microscopic immunolabelling and estimation of enzymatic activities to detailed molecular approaches. Changes in the composition of extensin, arabinogalactan proteins, rhamnogalacturonan-I, low methyl-esterified homogalacturonan, and high methyl-esterified homogalacturonan were analysed.

Results

In-depth molecular analyses showed that low oxygen stress affected the cell wall composition, i.e. changes in protein content, a significantly modified in situ distribution of low methyl-esterified homogalacturonan, appearance of callose deposits, disturbed native activities of β-1,3-glucanase, endo-β-1,4-glucanase, and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), and disruptions in molecular parameters of single cell wall components. Taken together, the data obtained indicate that less significant changes were observed in fruit in the breaker stage than in the case of the red ripe stage. The first symptoms of changes were noted after 24 h, but only after 72 h, more crucial deviations were visible. The 5% oxygen concentration slows down the ripening process and 0% oxygen accelerates the changes taking place during ripening.

Conclusions

The observed molecular reset occurring in tomato cell walls in hypoxic and anoxic conditions seems to be a result of regulatory and protective mechanisms modulating ripening processes.
A comparison of hemodynamic measurement methods during orthotopic liver transplantation: evaluating agreement and trending ability of PiCCO versus pulmonary artery catheter techniques
Authors: Feng Yulu , Ye Zexi , Shen Yuekun , Xiong Wei , Chen Xiaoxiang , Gan Xiaoliang , Wen Shihong , Yang Lu
Published: June 2024

Background

Significant hemodynamic changes occur during liver transplantation, emphasizing the importance of precious and continuous monitoring of cardiac output, cardiac index, and other parameters. Although the monitoring of cardiac output by pulse indicator continuous cardiac output (PiCCO) was statistically homogeneous compared to the clinical gold standard pulmonary artery catheterization (PAC) in previous studies of liver transplantation, there are fewer statistical methods for the assessment of its conclusions, and a lack of comparisons of other hemodynamic parameters (e.g., SVRI, systemic vascular resistance index). Some studies have also concluded that the agreement between PiCCO and PAC is not good enough. Overall, there are no uniform conclusions regarding the agreement between PiCCO and PAC in previous studies. This study evaluates the agreement and trending ability of relevant hemodynamic parameters obtained with PiCCO compared to the clinical gold standard PAC from multiple perspectives, employing various statistical methods.

Methods

Fifty-two liver transplantation patients were included. Cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), SVRI and stroke volume index (SVI) values were monitored at eight time points using both PiCCO and PAC. The results were analyzed by Bland-Altman analysis, Passing-bablok regression, intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), 4-quadrant plot, polar plot, and trend interchangeability method (TIM).

Results

The Bland-Altman analysis revealed high percentage errors for PiCCO: 54.06% for CO, 52.70% for CI, 62.18% for SVRI, and 51.97% for SVI, indicating poor accuracy. While Passing-Bablok plots showed favorable agreement for SVRI overall and during various phases, the agreement for other parameters was less satisfactory. The ICC results confirmed good overall agreement between the two devices across most parameters, except for SVRI during the new liver phase, which showed poor agreement. Additionally, four-quadrant and polar plot analyses indicated that all agreement rate values fell below the clinically acceptable threshold of over 90%, and all angular deviation values exceeded ± 5°, demonstrating that PiCCO is unable to meet the acceptable trends. Using the TIM, the interchangeability rates were found to be quite low: 20% for CO and CI, 16% for SVRI, and 13% for SVI.

Conclusions

Our study revealed notable disparities in absolute values of CO, CI, SVRI and SVI between PiCCO and PAC in intraoperative liver transplant settings, notably during the neohepatic phase where errors were particularly pronounced. Consequently, these findings highlight the need for careful consideration of PiCCO’s advantages and disadvantages in liver transplantation scenarios, including its multiple parameters (such as the encompassing extravascular lung water index), against its limited correlation with PAC.
The association between socioeconomic status perception and mental health among Chinese older adults: the mediating roles of social trust and justice
Authors: Ran Xiaoxing , Zhang Xiaodong , Gong Wenyi , Chen Gong
Published: June 2024

Background

Mental health is a matter of quality of life among older adults. This study aimed to explore the association between the socioeconomic status (SES) perception and mental health of older adults using data from 2017 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS).

Methods

Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was used to analyse the association between SES perception and mental health, and the substitution model and variable methods were used to check the robustness of the results. Moreover, we adopted the Sobel model to analyse the mediating roles of social trust and justice.

Results

SES perception was positively associated with mental health, and this association was mediated by social trust and justice. This kind of positive association was mainly embodied in those groups with the highest or lowest objective SES. In other words, this study confirmed the phenomenon of “a contented mind is a perpetual feast” in Chinese society.

Conclusions

Higher SES perception is associated with improved mental health for Chinese older adults. It is imperative to prioritize efforts to enhance the perceptual abilities of older adults, particularly those with the highest or lowest objective SES, to promote their overall subjective well-being.
Potential prognostic value of CSF-targeted proteomics across the Alzheimer’s disease continuum
Authors: Xu Bingdong , Ling Yitong , Liu Leiyuan , Liu Yujun , Lin Yingze , Lyu Jun , Zhang Yusheng
Published: June 2024

Background

Core biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), such as Aβ42 and tau, have demonstrated high prognostic accuracy but do not fully capture the complex pathophysiology of AD. In this study, our objective was to identify novel cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers using proteomics across the entire AD continuum to predict conversion to AD and explore their involvement in AD pathogenesis.

Methods

A cohort of 186 cognitively normal (CN), 127 subjective memory complaint (SMC), 79 early mild cognitive impairment (EMCI), 249 late MCI (LMCI), and 132 AD individuals was analyzed, with a follow-up period of over 3 years for non-AD participants. CSF 65 peptides, as well as hippocampal and entorhinal volumes were analyzed, and cognitive function was evaluated using the 13-item cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-Cog 13). Cox proportional hazards models and mediation analysis were performed to investigate associations and causal relationships.

Results

During the follow-up, approximately one-fourth (146/580) of the non-AD participants progressed to AD. After adjusting for baseline diagnosis (CN to LMCI) and other variables, multivariable Cox regression analysis identified three peptides (VAELEDEK, VSFELFADK, and VVSSIEQK) as significant predictors of conversion to AD. Incorporating these three peptides into the initial model significantly improved the C-statistic from 0.82 to 0.85 for predicting AD conversion, surpassing the predictive ability of Aβ42 and P-tau. Moreover, hippocampal and entorhinal volumes mediated 30.3–53.8% of the association between the three peptides and ADAS-Cog 13 scores.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the potential of these three peptides as robust prognostic biomarker candidates for AD conversion across the entire AD continuum, with a mechanism involving the mediation of hippocampal and entorhinal volumes.