bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent advances in the understanding of cilia mechanisms and their applications as therapeutic targets
Authors: Saito Masaki , Otsu Wataru , Miyadera Keiko , Nishimura Yuhei
Published: September 2023

The primary cilium is a single immotile microtubule-based organelle that protrudes into the extracellular space. Malformations and dysfunctions of the cilia have been associated with various forms of syndromic and non-syndromic diseases, termed ciliopathies. The primary cilium is therefore gaining attention due to its potential as a therapeutic target. In this review, we examine ciliary receptors, ciliogenesis, and ciliary trafficking as possible therapeutic targets. We first discuss the mechanisms of selective distribution, signal transduction, and physiological roles of ciliary receptors. Next, pathways that regulate ciliogenesis, specifically the Aurora A kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, and ubiquitin-proteasome pathways are examined as therapeutic targets to regulate ciliogenesis. Then, in the photoreceptors, the mechanism of ciliary trafficking which takes place at the transition zone involving the ciliary membrane proteins is reviewed. Finally, some of the current therapeutic advancements highlighting the role of large animal models of photoreceptor ciliopathy are discussed.
Predictors of failure of early neurological improvement in early time window following endovascular thrombectomy: a multi-center study
Authors: Lai Yuzheng , Diana Francesco , Mofatteh Mohammad , Nguyen Thanh N. , Jou Eric , Zhou Sijie , Sun Hao , He Jianfeng , Yan Wenshan , Chen Yiying , Feng Mingzhu , Chen Junbin , Ma Jicai , Li Xinyuan , Meng Heng , Abdalkader Mohamad , Chen Yimin
Published: September 2023

Background and objective

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has become the gold standard in the treatment of acute stroke patients. However, not all patients respond well to this treatment despite successful attempts. In this study, we aimed to identify variables associated with the failure of improvements following EVT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed prospectively collected data of 292 ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion who underwent EVT at three academic stroke centers in China from January 2019 to February 2022. All patients were above 18 years old and had symptoms onset ≤6 h. A decrease of more than 4 points on the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) after 24 h compared with admission or an NIHSS of 0 or 1 after 24 h was defined as early neurological improvement (ENI), whereas a lack of such improvement in the NIHSS was defined as a failure of early neurological improvement (FENI). A favorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0–2 after 90 days.

Results

A total of 183 patients were included in the final analyses, 126 of whom had FENI, while 57 had ENI. Favorable outcomes occurred in 80.7% of patients in the ENI group, in contrast to only 22.2% in the FENI group (p < 0.001). Mortality was 7.0% in the ENI group in comparison to 42.1% in the FENI group (p < 0.001). The multiple logistic regression model showed that diabetes mellitus [OR (95% CI), 2.985 (1.070–8.324), p = 0.037], pre-stroke mRS [OR (95% CI), 6.221 (1.421–27.248), p = 0.015], last known well to puncture time [OR (95% CI), 1.010 (1.003–1.016), p = 0.002], modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction = 3 [OR (95% CI), 0.291 (0.122–0.692), p = 0.005], and number of mechanical thrombectomy passes [OR (95% CI), 1.582 (1.087–2.302), p = 0.017] were the predictors of FENI.

Conclusion

Diabetes mellitus history, pre-stroke mRS, longer last known well-to-puncture time, lack of modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction = 3, and the number of mechanical thrombectomy passes are the predictors of FENI. Future large-scale studies are required to validate these findings.
The prevalence and impact of tension-type headache in school-aged children in Iran
Authors: Togha Mansoureh , Jafari Elham , Salami Zhale , Kamali Koorosh , Mirzaee Godarzee Hadis , Mirzaee Godarzee Mohadeseh , Bavarnegin Sanaz
Published: September 2023

Background

Tension-Type Headache (TTH) is regarded as the third most prevalent disorder worldwide, prompting children to seek medical attention. Our objective is to investigate the prevalence of TTH among students aged 6 to 18 years in various geographical regions of Iran, while also assessing the impact of headaches on their quality of life.

Methods

Employing a cross-sectional survey, we have carefully distributed self-completed structured questionnaires to students in 121 meticulously selected schools throughout the country, ensuring the representation of its diverse population.

Results

Among the 2,958 potential participants, we have included a total of 2031 individuals in our study. This comprises 57.3% children and 42.7% adolescents, with 50.02% being males and 49.97% females. Specifically, we have examined 950 subjects with TTH and 1,081 individuals without any form of headache. TTH was diagnosed in 32.1% of the participants. Notably, we have observed a significant difference in the average age between the TTH subjects and those without headaches. Participants without headaches were more likely to be enrolled in primary schools, while those diagnosed with TTH predominantly attended high schools. We found no significant relationship between urban–rural areas or different geographic regions and the prevalence of TTH or its subtypes. Phonophobia was commonly associated with TTHs. Lastly, the mean quality-of-life score was highest for individuals without headaches, followed by those with low frequency episodic TTH, high frequency episodic TTH, and chronic TTHs. There was also a significant relation between headache severity and quality of life scores.

Conclusion

The significant prevalence of TTH in children and adolescents and its adverse impact on the daily activities of individuals underscore the utmost importance of accurate diagnosis and efficient management.
Liquid-liquid phase separation regulates alpha-synuclein aggregate and mitophagy in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Hou Kaiying , Liu Tingting , Li Jingwen , Xian Meiyan , Sun Lin , Wei Jianshe
Published: September 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world, and alpha-synuclein (α-syn) abnormal aggregate and mitochondrial dysfunction play a crucial role in its pathological development. Recent studies have revealed that proteins can form condensates through liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), and LLPS has been found to be widely present in α-syn aberrant aggregate and mitophagy-related protein physiological processes. This review summarizes the occurrence of α-syn LLPS and its influencing factors, introduces the production and transformation of the related protein LLPS during PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy, hoping to provide new ideas and methods for the study of PD pathology.
Imbalance of thalamic metabolites in an experimental model of hypertension: role of bergamot polyphenols
Authors: Carresi Cristina , Cardamone Antonio , Coppoletta Anna Rita , Mollace Annachiara , Musolino Vincenzo , Gliozzi Micaela , Mollace Vincenzo
Published: September 2023

Cerebral metabolites are associated with different physiological and pathological processes in brain tissue. Among them, the concentrations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and choline-containing compounds (Cho) in the thalamic region are recognized and analyzed as important predictive markers of brain impairment. The relationship among hypertension, modulation of brain metabolite levels and cerebral diseases is of recent investigation, leaving many unanswered questions regarding the origin and consequences of the metabolic damage caused in grey and white matter during hypertension. Here we provide evidence for the influence of hypertension on NAA and Cho ratios in hypertensive rat thalamus and how the use of natural occurring compounds ameliorates the balance of thalamic metabolites.
Involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling in the pathogenesis of stress-related brain diseases
Authors: Numakawa Tadahiro , Kajihara Ryutaro
Published: September 2023

Neurotrophins including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF, have critical roles in neuronal differentiation, cell survival, and synaptic function in the peripheral and central nervous system. It is well known that a variety of intracellular signaling stimulated by TrkB, a high-affinity receptor for BDNF, is involved in the physiological and pathological neuronal aspects via affecting cell viability, synaptic function, neurogenesis, and cognitive function. As expected, an alteration of the BDNF/TrkB system is suspected to be one of the molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive decline in cognitive diseases and mental disorders. Recent evidence has also highlighted a possible link between the alteration of TrkB signaling and chronic stress. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that downregulation of the BDNF/TrkB system and chronic stress have a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mental disorders. In this review, we introduce current evidence showing a close relationship between the BDNF/TrkB system and the development of cognition impairment in stress-related disorders, and the possible contribution of the upregulation of the BDNF/TrkB system in a therapeutic approach against these brain diseases.
Cryopreservation of bioflavonoid-rich plant sources and bioflavonoid-microcapsules: emerging technologies for preserving bioactivity and enhancing nutraceutical applications
Authors: Xiang Jia , Mlambo Ronald , Shaw Ibrahim , Seid Yimer , Shah Hamid , He Yongju , Kpegah Julius K. S. K. , Tan Songwen , Zhou Wenhu , He Binsheng
Published: September 2023

Bioflavonoids are natural polyphenolic secondary metabolites that are medicinal. These compounds possess antitumor, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-psoriasis properties to mention a few. Plant species that contain bioflavonoids should be preserved as such. Also, the bioactivity of the bioflavonoids as neutraceutical compounds is compromised following extraction due to their sensitivity to environmental factors like light, pH, and temperature. In other words, the bioflavonoids’ shelf-life is affected. Scientists noticed that bioflavonoids have low solubility properties, poor absorption, and low bioavailability following consumption. Researchers came up with methods to encapsulate bioflavonoids in order to circumvent the challenges above and also to mask the unpleasant order these chemicals may have. Besides, scientists cryopreserve plant species that contain bioflavonoids. In this review, we discuss cryopreservation and bioflavonoid microencapsulation focusing mainly on vitrification, slow freezing, and freeze-drying microencapsulation techniques. In addition, we highlight bioflavonoid extraction techniques, medicinal properties, challenges, and future perspectives of cryopreservation and microencapsulation of bioflavonoids. Regardless of the uniqueness of cryopreservation and microencapsulation as methods to preserve bioflavonoid sources and bioflavonoids’ bioactivity, there are challenges reported. Freeze-drying technology is costly. Cryoprotectants damage the integrity of plant cells, to say the least. Researchers are working very hard to overcome these challenges. Encapsulating bioflavonoids via coaxial electrospray and then cryopreserving the micro/nanocapsules produced can be very interesting.
Benchmarking ChatGPT-4 on a radiation oncology in-training exam and Red Journal Gray Zone cases: potentials and challenges for ai-assisted medical education and decision making in radiation oncology
Authors: Huang Yixing , Gomaa Ahmed , Semrau Sabine , Haderlein Marlen , Lettmaier Sebastian , Weissmann Thomas , Grigo Johanna , Tkhayat Hassen Ben , Frey Benjamin , Gaipl Udo , Distel Luitpold , Maier Andreas , Fietkau Rainer , Bert Christoph , Putz Florian
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The potential of large language models in medicine for education and decision-making purposes has been demonstrated as they have achieved decent scores on medical exams such as the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) and the MedQA exam. This work aims to evaluate the performance of ChatGPT-4 in the specialized field of radiation oncology.

Methods

The 38th American College of Radiology (ACR) radiation oncology in-training (TXIT) exam and the 2022 Red Journal Gray Zone cases are used to benchmark the performance of ChatGPT-4. The TXIT exam contains 300 questions covering various topics of radiation oncology. The 2022 Gray Zone collection contains 15 complex clinical cases.

Results

For the TXIT exam, ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4 have achieved the scores of 62.05% and 78.77%, respectively, highlighting the advantage of the latest ChatGPT-4 model. Based on the TXIT exam, ChatGPT-4’s strong and weak areas in radiation oncology are identified to some extent. Specifically, ChatGPT-4 demonstrates better knowledge of statistics, CNS & eye, pediatrics, biology, and physics than knowledge of bone & soft tissue and gynecology, as per the ACR knowledge domain. Regarding clinical care paths, ChatGPT-4 performs better in diagnosis, prognosis, and toxicity than brachytherapy and dosimetry. It lacks proficiency in in-depth details of clinical trials. For the Gray Zone cases, ChatGPT-4 is able to suggest a personalized treatment approach to each case with high correctness and comprehensiveness. Importantly, it provides novel treatment aspects for many cases, which are not suggested by any human experts.

Conclusion

Both evaluations demonstrate the potential of ChatGPT-4 in medical education for the general public and cancer patients, as well as the potential to aid clinical decision-making, while acknowledging its limitations in certain domains. Owing to the risk of hallucinations, it is essential to verify the content generated by models such as ChatGPT for accuracy.
Post-marketing safety surveillance of dalfampridine for multiple sclerosis using FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Xiong Rui , Lei Jing , Pan Sicen , Zhang Hong , Tong Yongtao , Wu Wei , Huang Yi , Lai Xiaodan
Published: September 2023

Objective: To investigate and analyze the post-marketing adverse event (AE) data of multiple sclerosis (MS) therapeutic drug dalfampridine using the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) for its clinical safety application.

Methods: Use OpenVigil2.1 platform to obtain AE data of dalfampridine from FAERS from February 2010 to September 2022. Match “adverse drug reaction” with preferred term (PT) and system organ class (SOC) according to the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA), then merge the same PT and delete non-AE PT. Positive signals were identified by the reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), and Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN) methods. When AE signals met the criteria of those three methods, they were identified as positive signals.

Results: A total of 44,092 dalfampridine-related AE reports were obtained, and 335 AE signals were identified, including 11,889 AE reports. AEs were more common in females and in the 45–65 age group, which is consistent with the epidemiological characteristics of MS. The 335 AE signals involved 21 SOCs, including investigations, infections and infestations, eye disorders, etc. Among the top 20 PTs in signal strength, 10 were associated with abnormal lymphocyte percentage and count, and 5 were associated with abnormal urine tests, some of which were not described in the instruction, such as spinal cord injury cauda equina, haemoglobin urine present, urinary sediment abnormal and so on. The most frequently reported AE signals were urinary tract infection, dizziness, condition aggravated. In addition, 23 AE signals with death outcomes were identified, with an incidence of less than 0.1%.

Conclusion: Data mining of FAERS was conducted to analyze the AEs of dalfampridine, and new AE signals were found. This study provides a reference for the safe use of dalfampridine in the treatment of MS.
Thermometric absorption spectroscopy through active locking of microbubble resonators
Authors: Frigenti Gabriele , Farnesi Daniele , Vesco Guglielmo , Centi Sonia , Ratto Fulvio , Pelli Stefano , Murzina Tatyana V. , Nunzi Conti Gualtiero , Soria Silvia
Published: September 2023

We implemented a Microbubble Resonator (MBRs) as an opto-thermal transducer to reconstruct the absorption spectrum of a nanoparticle suspension through its temperature increase. The experimental configuration features the MBR as both the vial containing the suspension and the optical transducer, allowing for a sensitive ultra-compact system with a straightforward microfluidic integration. With respect to a previous publication, the active lock of the MBR resonance produced an order-of-magnitude improvement in the system performance and a smooth absorption reconstruction. Additionally, since the detection process is temperature-based, the measurement is intrinsically insensitive towards scattering spectrum, both of the particles and of the host liquid. These features make the MBR system an interesting candidate for the characterisation of extremely small samples in the context of medical diagnosis from whole biological samples, quality controls for food safety or chemical production processes, and, in general, for the measurement of absorption in opaque mediums.
Radish microgreens produced without substrate in a vertical multi-layered growing unit are rich in nutritional metabolites
Authors: Tilahun Shimeles , Baek Min Woo , An Ki-Seok , Choi Han Ryul , Lee Jong Hwan , Hong Jin Sung , Jeong Cheon Soon
Published: September 2023

Growing microgreens on trays without substrate in a vertical multilayered growing unit offers several advantages over traditional agriculture methods. This study investigated the yield performance and nutritional quality of five selections of radish microgreens grown in sprouting trays, without a substrate using only water, in an indoor multilayer cultivation system using artificial light. Various parameters were measured, including fresh weight, dry matter, chlorophyll, minerals, amino acids, phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, vitamin C, glucosinolates, and antioxidant activity with four different in vitro assays. After ten days, the biomass had increased by 6-10 times, and the dry matter varied from 4.75-7.65%. The highest yield was obtained from ‘Asia red’, while the lowest was from ‘Koregon red’. However, ‘Koregon red’ and ‘Asia red’ had the highest dry matter. ‘Asia red’ was found to have the highest levels of both Chls and vitamin C compared to the other cultivars, while ‘Koregon red’ exhibited the highest levels of total phenolics and flavonoids. Although variations in the levels of individual glucosinolates were observed, there were no significant differences in the total content of glucosinolates among the five cultivars. ‘Asia purple’ had the highest anthocyanin content, while ‘Asia green 2’ had the lowest. The K, Mg, and Na concentrations were significantly highest in ‘Asia green 2’, and the highest Ca was recorded in ‘Asia purple’. Overall, ‘Asia purple’ and ‘Koregon red’ were the best cultivars in terms of nutritional quality among the tested radish microgreens. These cultivars exhibited high levels of dry weight, total phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, essential and total amino acids, and antioxidant activities. Moreover, the implementation of this vertical cultivation method for microgreens, which relies solely on water and seeds known for their tall shoots during the sprouting could hold promise as a sustainable approach. This method can effectively be utilized for cultivar screening and fulfilling the nutritional and functional needs of the population while minimizing the environmental impacts associated with traditional agriculture practices.
Protein nonadditive expression and solubility contribute to heterosis in Arabidopsis hybrids and allotetraploids
Authors: June Viviana , Xu Dongqing , Papoulas Ophelia , Boutz Daniel , Marcotte Edward M. , Chen Z. Jeffrey
Published: September 2023

Hybrid vigor or heterosis has been widely applied in agriculture and extensively studied using genetic and gene expression approaches. However, the biochemical mechanism underlying heterosis remains elusive. One theory suggests that a decrease in protein aggregation may occur in hybrids due to the presence of protein variants between parental alleles, but it has not been experimentally tested. Here, we report comparative analysis of soluble and insoluble proteomes in Arabidopsis intraspecific and interspecific hybrids or allotetraploids formed between A. thaliana and A. arenosa. Both allotetraploids and intraspecific hybrids displayed nonadditive expression (unequal to the sum of the two parents) of the proteins, most of which were involved in biotic and abiotic stress responses. In the allotetraploids, homoeolog-expression bias was not observed among all proteins examined but accounted for 17-20% of the nonadditively expressed proteins, consistent with the transcriptome results. Among expression-biased homoeologs, there were more A. thaliana-biased than A. arenosa-biased homoeologs. Analysis of the insoluble and soluble proteomes revealed more soluble proteins in the hybrids than their parents but not in the allotetraploids. Most proteins in ribosomal biosynthesis and in the thylakoid lumen, membrane, and stroma were in the soluble fractions, indicating a role of protein stability in photosynthetic activities for promoting growth. Thus, nonadditive expression of stress-responsive proteins and increased solubility of photosynthetic proteins may contribute to heterosis in Arabidopsis hybrids and allotetraploids and possibly hybrid crops.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals that methyl jasmonate confers salt tolerance in alfalfa by regulating antioxidant activity and ion homeostasis
Authors: Yin YanLing , Yang TianHui , Li Shuang , Li Xiaoning , Wang Wei , Fan ShuGao
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Alfalfa, a globally cultivated forage crop, faces significant challenges due to its vulnerability to salt stress. Jasmonates (JAs) play a pivotal role in modulating both plant growth and response to stressors.

Methods

In this study, alfalfa plants were subjected to 150 mM NaCl with or without methyl jasmonate (MeJA). The physiological parameters were detected and a transcriptomic analysis was performed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying MeJA-mediated salt tolerance in alfalfa.

Results

Results showed that exogenous MeJA regulated alfalfa seed germination and primary root growth in a dose-dependent manner, with 5µM MeJA exerting the most efficient in enhancing salt tolerance. MeJA at this concentration elavated the salt tolerance of young alfalfa seedlings by refining plant growth, enhancing antioxidant capacity and ameliorating Na+ overaccumulation. Subsequent transcriptomic analysis identified genes differentially regulated by MeJA+NaCl treatment and NaCl alone. PageMan analysis revealed several significantly enriched categories altered by MeJA+NaCl treatment, compared with NaCl treatment alone, including genes involved in secondary metabolism, glutathione-based redox regulation, cell cycle, transcription factors (TFs), and other signal transductions (such as calcium and ROS). Further weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) uncovered that turquoise and yellow gene modules were tightly linked to antioxidant enzymes activity and ion content, respectively. Pyruvate decar-boxylase (PDC) and RNA demethylase (ALKBH10B) were identified as the most central hub genes in these two modules. Also, some TFs-hub genes were identified by WGCNA in these two modules highly positive-related to antioxidant enzymes activity and ion content.

Discussion

MeJA triggered a large-scale transcriptomic remodeling, which might be mediated by transcriptional regulation through TFs or post-transcriptional regulation through demethylation. Our findings contributed new perspectives for understanding the underneath mechanisms by which JA-mediated salt tolerance in alfalfa.
Predicting student-teacher self-directed learning using intrinsic and extrinsic factors: a Theory of Planned Behavior adoption
Authors: Sukkamart Aukkapong , Pimdee Paitoon , Leekitchwatana Punnee , Kongpiboon Watcharin , Kantathanawat Thiyaporn
Published: September 2023

Introduction

This study set out to develop a model that illustrates the causal relationship between factors influencing Thai student-teacher self-directed learning (SDL). To achieve this, the authors analyzed and applied the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to investigate the role of family support, teacher support, friend support, fellow students, and the university in influencing SDL.

Methods

The research used a sample of 468 student-teachers from five academic majors randomly selected from the King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) Bachelor of Industrial Education Program during the 2021 academic year. The authors developed a questionnaire which was evaluated from both a panel of experts and a 30 student-teacher pilot test which found that item reliability was acceptable. LISREL 9.10 was used to analyze the data from the study’s structural equation model path analysis.

Results

The results revealed that all the causal variables in the model positively influenced SDL, explaining the variance of influencing factors on SDL (R2) at 51%. SDL comprised five variables, when ranked in order of importance these were fellow students (FSt), teacher support (TS), family support (FS), friend support (FrS), and their university (Uni). The study also highlighted issues concerning each student-teacher’s learning time management ability and their perception of the university’s ability/willingness to allow each individual to choose their course, thus enhancing their SDL learning ability skills.

Discussion

It was speculated that some university educators even today perceive SDL as an adult education tool which they perceive is not appropriate at the university level. The authors also felt that for younger student-teachers that the COVID-19 medical emergency limited teacher/student/university interaction, thus contributing to student misconceptions about support availability. This study contributes significantly to the literature by investigating how TPB intrinsic and extrinsic factors impact a university student’s self-directed learning.
Study on anxiety, depression, and subjective wellbeing of patients with bladder cancer in their different chemotherapy stages
Authors: Yang Jie , Tan Yingchun , Yao Chunlin
Published: September 2023

Aims and objectives

This study aims to explore the changes in anxiety, depression, and subjective wellbeing in patients with bladder perfusion during different stages of their chemotherapy, and analyze the correlation among their anxiety, depression, and subjective wellbeing.

Methods

A total of 174 patients with bladder cancer who received bladder perfusion chemotherapy were selected. The questionnaire survey was conducted with SAS, SDS, and GWB. The patients were surveyed and the data were analyzed.

Results

The results of patients' anxiety, depression, and subjective wellbeing show a dynamic change trend. The change is most obvious after 1 month of chemotherapy and tends to be flat after 3 months of chemotherapy. The scores of anxiety, depression, and subjective wellbeing in patients with bladder perfusion at different stages are statistically significant (P < 0.05). There is a negative correlation among anxiety, depression, and subjective wellbeing in patients (r = −0.605, 0.601).

Conclusion

Patients' emotions change obviously in the first 3 months of their chemotherapy. Clinical workers can take active intervention measures in this period, guide patients to relieve their anxiety and depression, increase their subjective wellbeing level, and improve their quality of life, which is helpful to ensure the successful completion of chemotherapy.
Implementing depression care in under-resourced communities: a school-based family resilience skill-building pilot randomized controlled trial in the United States
Authors: Marlotte Lauren , Klomhaus Alexandra , Ijadi-Maghsoodi Roya , Aralis Hilary , Lester Patricia , Griffin Esperon Kim , Kataoka Sheryl
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Youth in under-resourced communities are more likely to have greater social risk factors for mental health needs yet have less access to needed care. School-based mental health services are effective in treating common disorders such as adolescent depression; however, few have a family-centered approach, which may especially benefit specific populations.

Methods

Utilizing a community-partnered approach, we adapted an established, trauma-informed, resilience skill-building family intervention for adolescents with depression. We conducted a small randomized controlled feasibility pilot of an adapted intervention in a large school district that serves predominately low-income, Latinx students in the Southwest United States between 2014-2017. Youth between the ages of 12-18 years old with a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) score of 10 or higher, who spoke English or Spanish, were recruited from 12 school mental health clinics. Twenty-five eligible adolescents with depression and their participating caregivers were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either the adapted intervention, Families OverComing Under Stress for Families with Adolescent Depression (FOCUS-AD), or usual care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) only. Most of the sample was Latinx and female. We evaluated feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness.

Results

Among participants who completed standardized assessments administered at baseline and approximately five months post-randomization (n = 10 FOCUS-AD, n = 11 CBT only), effectiveness was explored by identifying significant changes over time in adolescent mental health within the FOCUS-AD and CBT only groups and comparing the magnitude of these changes between groups. Nonparametric statistical tests were used. We found the FOCUS-AD intervention to be feasible and acceptable; participant retention was high. Adolescent symptoms of depression (measured by the PHQ-8) improved significantly from baseline to follow-up for youth in both FOCUS-AD (median decrease [MD] = 10, p = 0.02) and control (MD = 6, p = 0.01) groups, with no significant difference across the two groups. Results were similar for symptoms of PTSD (measured by the Child PTSD Symptom Scale; FOCUS-AD MD = 12.5, p = 0.01; CBT only MD = 7, p = 0.04; no significant difference between groups).

Conclusion

Family-centered approaches to depression treatment among adolescents living in under-resourced communities may lead to improved mental health, although further research is warranted.
Unraveling complexity in changing mental health care towards person-centered care
Authors: Lorenz-Artz Karin , Bierbooms Joyce , Bongers Inge
Published: September 2023

Background

Mental health care (MHC) needs to shift towards person-centered care to better meet people’s individual needs. Open Dialogue (OD) is well-aligned with this perspective and brings it into practice. This study focuses on exploring the change process within a pilot project involving three MHC teams as they transition to a person-centered OD practice. Our aim is to identify and reflect on the challenges faced by MHC professionals in adopting person-centered care, and shedding light on the underlying complexity of these challenges. By gaining a better understanding of these obstacles, we hope to contribute to the adoption of the person-centered approach in MHC practice.

Methods

Our research employed a qualitative design, involving a total of 14 semi-structured interviews with MHC professionals who were either trained in OD, OD trainees, or MHC professionals without OD training. To analyze the data, we utilized a hybrid approach that combined deductive – and inductive thematic analysis.

Results

We identified four distinctive challenges: (1) understanding and knowledge transfer, (2) (inter)personal process, (3) emotional discomfort, and (4) the need for multi-stakeholder participation and support. In practice, these challenges intersect and the appearance of and relationships between these challenges are not linear or disentangleable.

Conclusion

Upon careful consideration of these interdependent challenges, it became evident that embedding a person-centered approach like OD brings about systemic change, leading to an unfamiliar situation X. The research findings indicated that understanding and conveying the concept of person-centered care in practical settings poses significant challenges. The field of knowledge management helps to capture the complexity of understanding and transferring this knowledge. The change process necessitates an (inter)personal process and elicits emotional discomfort, as person-centered OD practice confronts a deeply entrenched paradigm in MHC. Achieving a shared understanding of person-centered care requires dedicated time and attention, while introducing this approach prompts broader discussions on underlying values and human rights in MHC. Current implementation efforts may underestimate or overlook these underlying values, but initiating an open dialogue can serve as an initial step in addressing the complexities.
Factors influencing COVID-19 testing among Native Americans and Latinos in two rural agricultural communities: a qualitative study
Authors: Van Rensburg Dillon , Adams Alexandra K. , Perez Georgina , Bishop Sonia , Warne Teresa , Hassell Laurie , Quigley Thomas , Garza Lorenzo , Dupuis Virgil , Drain Paul K. , Whiting Sorrell Anna , Ko Linda K.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To examine factors influencing decisions to test for COVID-19 among Native Americans on the Flathead Reservation in Montana and the Latino community in the Yakima Valley of Washington state.

Methods

We conducted 30 key informant interviews with community leaders and six focus groups with community members to examine factors impacting decisions to test for COVID-19 during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic from May 2021 to June 2021.

Results

Three major themes that impacted testing for COVID-19 were identified: (1) Social factors, including the influence of families and friends and employment practices; (2) health factors, including testing procedures, home-based testing, and health communication; and (3) contextual factors, including distrust for government and medical communities and the impact on cultural practices and celebrations.

Conclusions

Social, health, and contextual factors influence the decision to test for COVID-19. Understanding the community's perception is critical for successful implementation of preventive strategies.
Qualitative assessment in the third month of life allows for a better prognosis of the achievement of motor milestones versus assessment of pathological reflexes- prospective studies on Polish children
Authors: Surowińska Joanna , Sobieska Magdalena , Gajewska Ewa
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The characteristic feature of primitive reflexes is that they occur early in development and must expire at a well-defined age. The study was conducted prospectively on a group of 107 children (74 boys). The study population included 83 infants born on time (weight 3,465 ± 395 g) and 24 born prematurely (weight 2,225 ± 793 g).

Methods

An analysis of motor development at 3 months of age consisting of a qualitative assessment (motor performance) and a check of reflexes was performed; at 9 months, the child was checked for crawling and sitting down, and at 16 months for walking.

Results

The more abnormal reflexes, the less likely it was to achieve the assessed milestones in time. It is possible to notice that the qualitative assessment is, in each case, a better predictor of the milestones than any of the reflexes, except for walking, where the Babkin reflex was strongly predictive. However, the qualitative assessment sum still occupies the second and third positions in prone and supine positions.

Discussion

The occurrence of Babkin’s reflex at 3 months of age impacts the achievement of sitting down and walking functions. An abnormal Galant reflex was strongly associated with the lack of occurrence of crawling on time. At the same time, a high-quality score at 3 months of age guarantees the development of crawling on time, sitting down, and walking.
Congenital syphilis in Switzerland: a marker of inequality? A mini-review
Authors: David Antoine , Posfay-Barbe Klara M. , Aguiar Nogueira Carina , Toutous Trellu Laurence
Published: September 2023

Syphilis remains a global public health problem, with growing incidence in most regions of the world, particularly among women of childbearing age. This alarming trend has led to an increase in cases of congenital syphilis, resulting in devastating consequences. While the implementation of measures by the World Health Organization (WHO) and various governments has contributed to a decline in the global incidence of congenital syphilis, many countries are facing an escalating crisis, as incidence continues to rise. This mini-review aims to provide an overview of the current state of this disease in different parts of the world, focusing on the most affected populations and highlighting congenital syphilis as a marker of vulnerability. It also focuses on Switzerland, a country with a robust economy, to identify shortcomings in the healthcare system that contribute to the persistence of congenital syphilis, even though the infection is easily detectable and treatable. In conclusion, this mini-review highlights the persistent risk of congenital syphilis worldwide, regardless of country prevalence or economic status, and underscores the need for sustained efforts to reach underserved women, emphasizing the vital role of comprehensive training for healthcare professionals.
Influence of UV radiation-absorbing foils on secondary plant metabolites in three lettuce cultivars (Lactuca sativa L. and Cichorium intybus L.)
Authors: Laurenčíková Nikola , Živčák Marek , Neugart Susanne , Pöhnl Tobias
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Providing fresh and healthy vegetables, produced locally and under climate-friendly conditions, is a major challenge for future agriculture. The usage of foil tunnels prolongs cultivation periods in colder climates and reduces abiotic and biotic stress factors during crop growth, but it may also affect nutritional value and consumer perception due to the altered light spectrum.

Methods and results: Three different foils, one with low UV transmission, another with reduced UVB transmission, and a control foil with high UV transmission, were used to modulate light conditions for three different lettuce cultivars [radicchio type (cv. Indigo), romaine type (cv. Attico), and butterhead type (cv. Larissa)]. Taste-relevant sesquiterpene lactones and health-relevant carotenoids and polyphenols were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography, which revealed that light conditions are widely irrelevant for carotenoid concentrations. However, when UV-shielding foils were used, there was an up to 66% decrease in total polyphenol concentration. Less reduction could be achieved through the use of partially UV-transmissive foils. Sesquiterpene lactone concentrations were higher in plants under UV-blocking foils, when radicchio-type lettuce, naturally rich in sesquiterpene lactones, was cultivated.

Discussion: It is noteworthy that the sesquiterpene lactone lactucopicrin had a negative correlation with UVB intensities, while lactucin was unaffected. The nutritional value, measured by three different antioxidant activity assays, also benefited from an optimized foil choice with higher UV transmission.
Towards a conceptualisation and critique of everyday life in HRI
Authors: Zawieska Karolina , Hannibal Glenda
Published: September 2023

This paper focuses on the topic of “everyday life” as it is addressed in Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) research. It starts from the argument that while human daily life with social robots has been increasingly discussed and studied in HRI, the concept of everyday life lacks clarity or systematic analysis, and it plays only a secondary role in supporting the study of the key HRI topics. In order to help conceptualise everyday life as a research theme in HRI in its own right, we provide an overview of the Social Science and Humanities (SSH) perspectives on everyday life and lived experiences, particularly in sociology, and identify the key elements that may serve to further develop and empirically study such a concept in HRI. We propose new angles of analysis that may help better explore unique aspects of human engagement with social robots. We look at the everyday not just as a reality as we know it (i.e., the realm of the “ordinary”) but also as the future that we need to envision and strive to materialise (i.e., the transformation that will take place through the “extraordinary” that comes with social robots). Finally, we argue that HRI research would benefit not only from engaging with a systematic conceptualisation but also critique of the contemporary everyday life with social robots. This is how HRI studies could play an important role in challenging the current ways of understanding of what makes different aspects of the human world “natural” and ultimately help bringing a social change towards what we consider a “good life.”
Design and Analysis of Brake-by-Wire Unit Based on Direct Drive Pump–Valve Cooperative
Authors: Yu Peng , Sun Zhaoyue , Xu Haoli , Ren Yunyun , Tan Cao
Published: September 2023

Aiming at the requirements of distributed braking and advanced automatic driving, a brake-by-wire unit based on a direct drive pump–valve cooperative is proposed. To realize the wheel cylinder pressure regulation, the hydraulic pump is directly driven by the electromagnetic linear actuator coordinates with the active valve. It has the advantages of rapid response and no deterioration of wheel side space and unsprung mass. Firstly, by analyzing the working characteristics and braking performance requirements of the braking unit, the key parameters of the system are matched. Then, in order to ensure the accuracy of the simulation model, the co-simulation model of the brake unit is established based on the Simulink-AMESim co-simulation platform. Then, the influence law of key parameters on the control performance is analyzed. Finally, the experimental platform of the brake unit is established. The accuracy of the co-simulation model and the feasibility of the brake-by-wire unit based on direct drive pump–valve cooperative are verified through the pressure control experiment and ABS simulation, which shows that the braking unit has good dynamic response and steady-state tracking effect.
Aeroelasticity Model for Highly Flexible Aircraft Based on the Vortex Lattice Method
Authors: Dagilis Mindaugas , Kilikevičius Sigitas
Published: September 2023

With the increasing use of composite materials in aviation, structural aircraft design often becomes limited by stiffness, rather than strength. As a consequence, aeroelastic analysis becomes more important to optimize both aircraft structures and control algorithms. A low computational cost aeroelasticity model based on VLM and rigid-body dynamics is proposed in this work. UAV flight testing is performed to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed model. Two flight sections are chosen to be modeled based on recorded aerodynamic surface control data. The calculated accelerations are compared with recorded flight data. It is found that the proposed model adequately captures the general flight profile, with acceleration peak errors between −6.2% and +8.4%. The average relative error during the entire flight section is 39% to 44%, mainly caused by rebounds during the beginning and end of pull-up maneuvers. The model could provide useful results for the initial phases of aircraft control law design when comparing different control algorithms.
Long-Term Organic Substitution Promotes Carbon and Nitrogen Sequestration and Benefit Crop Production in Upland Field
Authors: Xu Hu , Cai Andong , Yang Xueyun , Zhang Shulan , Huang Shaomin , Wang Boren , Zhu Ping , Colinet Gilles , Sun Nan , Xu Minggang , Zhang Wenju
Published: September 2023

Partial substitution of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer with manure (organic substitution) is highly recommended to minimize environmental risks without compromising crop productivity in intensive agricultural systems. However, our understanding of the effect of organic substitution on soil organic carbon (OC) and total nitrogen (TN) in deep soil and its impact on crop productivity remains limited. Here we investigated OC and TN changes in soil profile down to 100 cm, crop yield, and sustainable yield index under synthetic nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium fertilizers (NPK), NPK plus straw (NPKS), and organic substitution (NPKM) treatments over two decades in four upland fields across different climate zones. Compared with the initial values, two decades of NPKM treatment significantly (p < 0.05) increased OC and TN stocks in either topsoil (by 25.6–103.8 and 15.8–89.8%) or deep soil (by 2.9–71.3 and 5.7–36.9%), respectively, across all sites. The increases in OC and TN stocks in 0–100 cm soil receiving NPKM were significantly higher than those receiving NPK at all sites and NPKS at three high-evaporation sites. Compared with NPKS and NPK treatments, crop yield and N uptake were significantly increased under NPKM treatment only at the Qiyang site. Furthermore, OC sequestration in the entire soil profile down to 100 cm and TN accumulation in topsoil exhibited significant positive correlations with crop N uptake, relative crop yield, and sustainable yield index. In conclusion, long-term partial substitution of synthetic N fertilizer with manure facilitates soil OC and TN sequestration in the entire 100 cm profile and thus maintains high crop productivity in upland areas.
Mitigating Human Impacts on Wild Animal Welfare
Authors: Macdonald David W.
Published: September 2023

Human activities negatively impact the welfare of wild vertebrates in many different contexts globally, and countless individual animals are affected. Growing concern for wild animal welfare, especially in relation to conservation, is evident. While research on wild animal welfare lags behind that focused on captive animals, minimising human-induced harm to wild animals is a key principle. This study examines examples of negative anthropogenic impacts on wild animal welfare, how these may be mitigated and what further research is required, including examples from wildlife management, biodiversity conservation, wildlife tourism and wildlife trade. Further, it discusses the relationship between animal welfare and biodiversity conservation, and synergies that may be achieved between these. Ultimately, it is discussed how the welfare of wild animals may be balanced with other priorities to ensure that welfare is afforded due consideration in interactions between people and wildlife.