bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting soil moisture content of tea plantation using support vector machine optimized by arithmetic optimization algorithm
Authors: Yin Dongxiao , Wang Yanhua , Huang Ying
Published: January 2023

Soil moisture content (SMC) is an important parameter that affects tea growth. Reasonable soil moisture content improves tea quality and ensures tea yield. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly monitor the soil water content. However, the traditional soil moisture content prediction algorithm has the problems of low accuracy and low efficiency. This paper constructs and evaluates the performance of a hybrid arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) and support vector machine (SVM) prediction model (AOA-SVM) for predicting SMC in tea plantations. Grey relation analysis (GRA) and Pearson correlation analysis are adopted to select features for soil moisture content prediction model, and then the correlation of SMC with soil temperature (ST), atmospheric temperature (AT), and soil electrical conductivity (SEC) was analyzed. The optimal penalty parameter ( c) and the parameter of the kernel function ( g) of SVM model are determined by AOA. The mean square error (MSE) and coefficient of determination ([Formula: see text]), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean error (ME) were calculated to evaluate the performance of the model. Meanwhile, the performance of AOA-SVM model is compared with SVM optimized by the sparrow search algorithm (SSA-SVM), extreme learning machine (ELM), support vector machine (SVM), and convolutional neural networks (CNN). The results showed that AOA-SVM, SSA-SVM and CNN are better, with the coefficient of determination above 93%, the coefficient of determination of SVM and ELM is 81.69% and 89.61%, respectively. The AOA-SVM model has the best R2 of 95.03%. This indicates that the AOA-SVM model has significant performance with higher R2, smaller MSE than other models, which has potential implications in precision agriculture.
Insights from the AQUA Registry: a retrospective study of anticholinergic polypharmacy in the United States
Authors: Cooperberg Matthew R. , Mbassa Rachel , Walker David , Meeks William , Lockefeer Amy , Jiang Baoguo , Li Tina , Johnston Karissa , Fang Raymond
Published: January 2023

Background:

Anticholinergic (ACH) burden is a risk factor for negative health outcomes among older adults. Several medications contribute to ACH burden, including antimuscarinics used to manage overactive bladder (OAB).

Objectives:

This study aimed to understand the extent of ACH burden in an OAB population in the United States.

Design:

Non-interventional retrospective analysis.

Methods:

Adults with OAB whose care providers participated in the American Urological Association Quality (AQUA) Registry between 2014 and 2020 were included in this study. An adapted version of the Pharmacy Quality Alliance (PQA) measure of anticholinergic polypharmacy (poly-ACH) was used to assess ACH burden. The primary outcome was the annual prevalence of poly-ACH, and a secondary outcome was the percentage of patients taking 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or ⩾ 5 ACH medications by calendar year. Analyses were stratified by age category at diagnosis and sex.

Results:

The sample comprised 552,840 patients with OAB. The mean age at initial OAB diagnosis was 65.7 years (58.2% male; 57.4% white). Prevalence of poly-ACH was highest in 2015 (3.7%) and lowest in 2020 (1.9%). Patients prescribed no ACH medications made up the largest proportion of each cohort, while those prescribed five or more comprised the smallest. The trend of decreasing proportions of patients taking increasing numbers of ACH medications was consistent. The proportion of patients prescribed no ACH medications increased from 63.3% in 2014 to 74.6% in 2020. The percentage of those prescribed three or more ACHs remained largely unchanged. Poly-ACH was highest among younger individuals (< 65 years of age) and females; temporal trends were similar overall and within each age and sex stratum.

Conclusion:

In this study, poly-ACH in patients with OAB was relatively infrequent and decreased over the study period. Further evaluation of poly-ACH is needed to assess whether the study findings reflect increased awareness of the negative effects of poly-ACH.
Exploring Methodological Approaches of Experimental Studies in the Field of Neuroarchitecture: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rad Parastou Naghibi , Behzadi Farzaneh , Yazdanfar Seyed Abbas , Ghamari Hessam , Zabeh Erfan , Lashgari Reza
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

This systematic review aims to strengthen the relationship between architecture and neuroscience by classifying data measurement techniques in the field of neuroarchitecture with a focus on the most practical and common methodological approaches. It classifies data recording techniques in different architectural categories (e.g., interior, urban, built environment).

Backgrounds:

With regard to urban life developments and technological breakthroughs, studies of human interactions with environments have been expanding in recent years. Additionally, recent advances in neuroscience have allowed architects to find out more about human experiences in built environments, but there are few valid frameworks about what methodologies and instruments are more common to conduct experimental tasks in this interdisciplinary field.

Methods:

Twenty-eight experimental studies were selected based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses literature search extension (PRISMA) systematic review protocol and a comprehensive analysis. The task-space of selected articles was categorized into three subfields, namely, “interior design,” “urban design,” and “building design” based on environments and their stimuli. As for this context-based categorization, recording techniques and methodology were distinguished for each subfield division.

Results:

More than 50% of the studies were incorporated in the first two categories, and the EEG recording was the most frequently employed neuroimaging technique thanks to the technical efficacy of its setup and the high temporal resolution of its electrophysiological signals.

Conclusion:

In this study, a summary of techniques and methodological approaches applied in the field is provided in a nut shell, and a general framework of instruments is presented to help scholars to carry out more practical research in the future leading to designing built environments more efficiently.
“The emergence of the Indian hyperlocal grocery delivery industry: Dunzo v/s Blinkit”
Authors: Sanghi Nirmit , Chandra Balodi Krishna , Gupta Vivek
Published: January 2023

This case details the evolution of the Hyperlocal Grocery Delivery Industry in India and a comparative analysis between Dunzo and Blinkit. The case describes the macro and industry level imperatives, growth drivers and competitive dynamics, and the resultant evolution of alternate business models. In an emerging economy context traditionally characterized by institutional voids, technological and infrastructural challenges, and a lack of entrepreneurial resources, the evolution, proliferation, and growth of the Hyperlocal Delivery business model makes for an intriguing story. We intend to make readers aware of the industry dynamics and allow them to use strategy, technological innovation, and the fundamentals of platform businesses frameworks from strategy, innovation, and platform businesses domains to evaluate the value proposition and offering that these firms have for consumers and the operational model to craft winning strategies in this emerging industry.
Two-thirds of pregnant mothers attending antenatal care services at Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia had no comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Beyen Teresa Kisi , Gurara Abenet Menene
Published: January 2023

Objective:

The study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors associated with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among pregnant mothers attending antenatal care (ANC) services at health institutions in Arsi zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia.

Methods:

The study employed a health facility-based cross-sectional study design from 18 March to 25 June 2019. Out of an estimated sample size of 4481, a total of 4440 (92.23%) pregnant women were selected by multistage random sampling technique and interviewed. Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS. The model fitness was tested by Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit, which provided a p value of 0.72 and deviance reduced (i.e., −2log likelihood was reduced from 5580.38 to 5069.55 with a p value of 0.000).

Results:

Out of the total mothers (4440) interviewed, only 1430 (32.2%; 95% confidence interval: (30.83%, 33.60%)) had comprehensive knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Not knowing safe period to be pregnant (adjusted odds ratio = 0.67; 95% confidence interval: 0.56, 0.81), and not empowering women’s for sexual practice (adjusted odds ratio = 0.50; 95% confidence interval: 0.43, 0.58) let women have less comprehensive knowledge while women who never educated about the sexual matter (adjusted odds ratio = 1.65; 95% confidence interval: 1.42, 1.92), who had a discouraging attitude toward having multiple partners (adjusted odds ratio = 1.53; 95% confidence interval: 1.24, 1.88), who had a discouraging attitude toward premarital sex (adjusted odds ratio = 1.68; 95% confidence interval: 1.38, 2.03), and who had a positive attitude toward accepting HIV/AIDS patients (2.69; 95% confidence interval: 2.34, 3.10) had more comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS.

Conclusion:

Only about one-third (32.2%) of pregnant mothers on ANC follow-up had comprehensive knowledge. Thus, it would be better if the health institutions emphasize educating the mothers attending antenatal care follow-up about HIV/AIDS, for those who do not know pregnancy occurrence date, not empowered of sexual practice, and had an encouraging attitude toward multiple partners, premarital sex, and negative attitude toward accepting HIV/AIDS patients.
Prosthesis preferences for those with upper limb loss: Discrete choice study of PULLTY® for use in regulatory decisions
Authors: Wilson Leslie , Dohan Dan , Garibaldi Matthew , Szeto David , Timmerman Molly , Matheny Johnny
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The patient’s voice in shared decision-making has progressed from physician’s office to regulatory decision-making for medical devices with FDA’s Patient Preference Initiative. A discrete-choice preference measure for upper limb prosthetic devices was developed to investigate patient’s risk/benefit preference choices for regulatory decision making.

Methods

Rapid ethnographic procedures were used to design a discrete-choice measure describing risk and benefits of osseointegration with myoelectric control and test in a pilot preference study in adults with upper limb loss. Primary outcome is utility of each choice based conjoint (CBC) attribute using mixed-effects regression. Utilities with and without video, and between genders were compared.

Results

Strongest negative preference was for avoiding infection risk (B = −1.77, p < 0.001) and chance of daily pain (B = −1.22, p, 0.001). Strongest positive preference was for attaining complete independence when cooking dinner (B = 1.62, p < 0.001) and smooth grip patterns at all levels (B = 1.62, B = 1.28, B = 1.26, p < 0.001). Trade-offs showed a 1% increase in risk of serious/treatable infection resulted in a 1.77 decrease in relative preference. There were gender differences, and where video was used, preferences were stronger.

Conclusions

Strongest preferences were for attributes of functionality and independence versus connectedness and sensation but showed willingness to make risk-benefit trade-offs. Findings provide valuable information for regulatory benefit-risk decisions for prosthetic device innovations.

Trial Registration

This study is not a clinical trial reporting results of a health care intervention so is not registered.
Stress among health care providers in NICU department, tertiary pediatric care hospital during COVID-19 pandemic in Egypt
Authors: Hegazy Amira Aly , Abdel Hamid Tamer A , Zein Marwa M , Aboushady Ahmed Taha , Akmal Dina M
Published: January 2023

Background:

Many of the pediatric health care workers (HCWs) suffered from sleep disturbance, anxiety, and potential stress disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic. Work-related stress is a potential cause of concern in HCWs and is associated with decreased job satisfaction, anxiety, depression, medical errors, and near misses. This study aims to investigate the various psychological consequences on medical personnel working in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design and methods:

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on a convenient sample of doctors and nurses working in NICU in pediatric hospitals at Cairo University teaching hospitals, Egypt. Two anonymous self-administered validated questionnaires were used to assess the level of stress, and the COVID-19 Rapid Quantitative Assessment Tool to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception about COVID-19.

Results:

Among 96 participants, 66.7% were nurses, and 33.3% were physicians, 79.2% of the participants showed a reasonably safe level of stress. The mean work stress score was 43.89 ± 5.77. The mean score for commonly experienced stress symptoms was 7.53 ± 4.54, median 7, IQR (4, 10). Females and physicians were found to be with a statistically significantly higher median score of commonly experienced stress symptoms than males ( p-value < 0.001 and 0.028 simultaneously).

Conclusion:

While such descriptive research provides valuable information on the scope of the problem, a strong theoretical framework is required to interpret these findings appropriately and develop preventive and therapeutic strategies. Particular attention should be warranted to the mental health well-being of women treating patients with COVID-19.
Green Human Resource Management and Employee Green Behaviour: Participation and Involvement, and Training and Development as Moderators
Authors: Veerasamy Udhayageetha , Joseph Michael Sammanasu , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: January 2023

The current study is aimed at exploring the effect of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices on employee green behaviour (EGB). We conducted this research in the context of one of the countries in the South Asian sub-continent, India. First, we developed a conceptual model based on the ability, motivation, and opportunity (AMO) framework and Social Identity Theory (SIT). Then, we tested the model with data collected from 191 faculty members in higher educational institutions in southern India. We first checked the instrument’s psychometric properties and tested the hypotheses using hierarchical regression. The results indicate that: (a) green recruitment strategies (GRS), green institutional initiatives (GII), and green performance management and appraisal (GPMA) positively impact EGB; and (b) EGB is positively related to employee green compensation and rewards (EGCR). The results also reveal that employee green participation and involvement (EGPI) and employee green training and development (EGTD) moderate the relationship between GRS, GII, GPMA, and EGB. The motivation stems from the need for present-day organisations to focus on a green environment and contribute to sustainability. The role of GHRM practices in stimulating employees to exhibit green behaviour is highlighted. The implications for GHRM theory and practice are discussed.
Under Pressure: Social Capital and Trust in Government After Natural Disasters
Authors: Alexander Priest A.
Published: January 2023

In response to the increasing threats posed by natural hazards, both disaster managers and researchers have recognized social networks and trust between communities and government as fundamental building blocks for resilience. However, these efforts often overlook the fact that the same network ties to family and friends that can help households weather a storm may also extend households’ exposure through collective trauma, reshaping their trust in and perceptions of government. Utilizing two restricted-access data sets gathered in Houston, Texas, following Hurricane Harvey, this study investigates the frequency with which households experienced a direct and/or close-tie impact and how such impacts affect households’ trust in local, state, and federal government. Results indicate that households experience close-tie impacts pervasively and that experiencing a close-tie impact is significantly correlated with lower trust in government at all levels, net of experiencing a direct impact and other statistical controls. Implications for a more nuanced approach to social capital and trust in disaster mitigation and research are discussed.
Advancing Indigenous futures with two-eyed seeing: Strategies for restoration and repair through collaborative research
Authors: Smith Carolyn , Diver Sibyl , Reed Ron
Published: January 2023

This article builds on the Indigenous research concept of two-eyed seeing, that is, learning from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing, and from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledges and ways of knowing. We do so by drawing on the authors’ multiple standpoints (Karuk Tribal Member, Karuk Enrolled Descendent, and non-Indigenous ally) and experiences building longstanding research collaborations that apply biophysical science, ethnographic methods, and Karuk oral traditions to tribal lands protection. Using Kovach’s conversational methodology, we discuss problems of health and well-being that arise from two-eyed seeing research collaborations affecting Indigenous lands, waters, and resources. We specifically examine interventions for advancing Indigenous leadership in research that intersect with the Karuk Tribe’s ecocultural revitalization initiatives through (1) stewardship of baskets alongside basket-weaving communities (human and nonhuman); (2) family based management of ceremonial trails, and (3) allyship for tribal–academic collaborations. Our analysis emphasizes how the aliveness of Karuk knowledge resists ahistorical essentialism, for example, by engaging with the joy of human/nonhuman relations, ceremonial scale, and solidarity practices. Responding to ongoing challenges with knowledge hierarchies, this work recognizes the importance of mutual acknowledgment of persons across systems for advancing Indigenous research as a multi-vocal initiative with the capacity for restoration and repair.
The Diabetes Tune-Up Group: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Improve Diabetes Distress and A1C Among Adults With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: de Groot Mary , Myers Barbara A. , Baker Lauren , Daily Elizabeth , Cavaghan Melissa
Published: January 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of delivering the Diabetes Tune-Up Group (DTU), a cognitive-behavioral-therapy-based (CBT) multidisciplinary intervention for adults with diabetes distress and elevated A1C using a group in-person delivery format.

Methods:

The DTU intervention consisted of 6 weekly group sessions (90 minutes in duration per session). The groups were cofacilitated by a diabetes care and education specialist (DCES) and a master’s-level clinical psychology trainee. The intervention integrated CBT with patient-centered diabetes education. Using a pre/post study design, participants completed assessments at baseline, post-intervention, and 3 months following the intervention.

Results:

The sample consisted of 29 adults with type 1 diabetes (N = 8) or type 2 diabetes (N = 21) who were predominantly female (79%), White (59%), and educated (56% with a college degree or greater). Participants attended 131 total sessions out of 174 possible sessions, for an overall attendance rate of 75.3%. At 3-month follow-up, significant improvements were observed in A1C values (mean decrease = 0.39%). Diabetes distress improved significantly from baseline (mean = 3.44, SD = 0.68) to post-intervention (mean = 2.94, SD = 0.68), and 3-month follow-up (mean = 2.55, SD = 0.75). Significant improvements were also observed in diabetes self-efficacy from baseline to post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

This group-based, multidisciplinary intervention resulted in improvements in A1C, diabetes distress, and patient self-efficacy in caring for diabetes. Future studies to validate this intervention approach across settings and delivery platforms are needed.
The Sonographer’s Role in Assessing Celiac Artery Stenosis, to Confirm the Diagnosis: A Case Study
Authors: Novitsky Renee
Published: January 2023

Celiac artery stenosis may occur in patients with a known history of atherosclerosis and should also be considered in those who present with abdominal pain. Sonography is specific and necessary when the information is correlated with a computed tomogram (CT), as it helps to determine patency and velocity within mesenteric vessels. When stenosis is severe, chronic mesenteric ischemia results, as vascular perfusion is diminished to the intestinal organs. In the case presented with severe atherosclerosis, both CT and sonography were helpful in confirming the diagnosis. Sonography can help in evaluating celiac artery stenosis, caused by atherosclerosis versus median arcuate ligament syndrome, by considering the normal velocities of the vessel.
Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia
Authors: Cines Douglas B. , Greinacher Andreas
Published: January 2023

Within the first months of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, previously healthy recipients who developed severe thrombosis (often cerebral and/or splanchnic vasculature) and thrombocytopenia typically after adenoviral vector-based vaccination were identified. Similarities between this syndrome, vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia prompted recognition of the role of antiplatelet factor 4 (PF4) antibodies and management strategies based on IV immunoglobulin and nonheparin anticoagulants, which improved outcome. We update current understanding of VITT and potential involvement of anti-PF4 antibodies in thrombotic disorders.
Respiratory recovery trajectories after severe-to-critical COVID-19: a 1-year prospective multicentre study
Authors: Schlemmer Frédéric , Valentin Simon , Boyer Laurent , Guillaumot Anne , Chabot François , Dupin Clairelyne , Le Guen Pierre , Lorillon Gwenael , Bergeron Anne , Basille Damien , Delomez Julia , Andrejak Claire , Bonnefoy Valentine , Goussault Hélène , Assié Jean-Baptiste , Choinier Pascaline , Ruppert Anne-Marie , Cadranel Jacques , Mennitti Maria Chiara , Roumila Mehdi , Colin Charlotte , Günther Sven , Sanchez Olivier , Gille Thomas , Sésé Lucile , Uzunhan Yurdagul , Faure Morgane , Patout Maxime , Morelot-Panzini Capucine , Laveneziana Pierantonio , Zysman Maeva , Blanchard Elodie , Raherison-Semjen Chantal , Giraud Violaine , Giroux-Leprieur Etienne , Habib Stéfanie , Roche Nicolas , Dinh-Xuan Anh Tuan , Sifaoui Islem , Brillet Pierre-Yves , Jung Camille , Boutin Emmanuelle , Layese Richard , Canoui-Poitrine Florence , Maitre Bernard
Published: January 2023

Background

Survivors of severe-to-critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may have functional impairment, radiological sequelae and persistent symptoms requiring prolonged follow-up. This pragmatic study aimed to describe their clinical follow-up and determine their respiratory recovery trajectories, and the factors that could influence them and their health-related quality of life.

Methods

Adults hospitalised for severe-to-critical COVID-19 were evaluated at 3 months and up to 12 months post-hospital discharge in this prospective, multicentre, cohort study.

Results

Among 485 enrolled participants, 293 (60%) were reassessed at 6 months and 163 (35%) at 12 months; 89 (51%) and 47 (27%) of the 173 participants initially managed with standard oxygen were reassessed at 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 3 months, 34%, 70% and 56% of the participants had a restrictive lung defect, impaired diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and significant radiological sequelae, respectively. During extended follow-up, bothDLCOand forced vital capacity percentage predicted increased by means of +4 points at 6 months and +6 points at 12 months. Sex, body mass index, chronic respiratory disease, immunosuppression, pneumonia extent or corticosteroid use during acute COVID-19 and prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) were associated withDLCOat 3 months, but not its trajectory thereafter. Among 475 (98%) patients with at least one chest computed tomography scan during follow-up, 196 (41%) had significant sequelae on their last images.

Conclusions

Although pulmonary function and radiological abnormalities improved up to 1 year post-acute COVID-19, high percentages of severe-to-critical disease survivors, including a notable proportion of those managed with standard oxygen, had significant lung sequelae and residual symptoms justifying prolonged follow-up.
Exploring the mechanism by which aqueous Gynura divaricata inhibits diabetic foot based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental verification
Authors: Sun Yu , Gao Cailiang , Liu Huiting , Liu Xue , Yue Tun
Published: January 2023

Background

To predict and validate the potential mechanism by which Gynura divaricata (GD) functions in the treatment of diabetic foot (DF).

Methods

The main chemical constituents of GD were identified by reviewing the literature, the traditional Chinese medicine database platform (TCMIP) and the BATMAN-TCM platform. DF disease targets were identified with the GeneCards database, and the compound-target network was constructed by using the intersection of drugs and disease. The STRING platform was used to construct the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, and Cytoscape 3.7.2 software was used to visualize the results. Moreover, the Metascape database was used for Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. Molecular docking of the active ingredients of GD and core protein targets of DF was performed using AutoDock software. Finally, the predicted results were preliminarily verified with experiments.

Results

A total of 140 potential targets of GD were identified and associated with DF. According to the PPI network analysis, GD accelerated DF wound healing, and the mechanism may be related to proteins such as AKT1, TP53, IL6, CASP3, TNF, and VEGFA. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that GD may play a role in the treatment of diabetic foot by affecting various signaling pathways. Molecular docking results showed that the proteins AKT1, TP53, IL6, CASP3, TNF, and VEGFA were closely associated with the components of GD. The animal experiments showed that GD reduced the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α and increased the mRNA and protein expression of VEGFA in rats with DF.

Conclusions

GD regulates multiple targets and multiple pathways to promote wound healing in DF.
Metabolic profile and transcriptome reveal the mystery of petal blotch formation in rose
Authors: Ji Naizhe , Wang Qianyu , Li Shanshan , Wen Jiaxin , Wang Liangsheng , Ding Xiaohao , Zhao Shiwei , Feng Hui
Published: January 2023

Background

Petal blotch is a unique ornamental trait in angiosperm families, and blotch in rose petal is rare and has great esthetic value. However, the cause of the formation of petal blotch in rose is still unclear. The influence of key enzyme genes and regulatory genes in the pigment synthesis pathways needs to be explored and clarified.

Results

In this study, the rose cultivar ‘Sunset Babylon Eyes’ with rose-red to dark red blotch at the base of petal was selected as the experimental material. The HPLC-DAD and UPLC-TQ-MS analyses indicated that only cyanidin 3,5-O-diglucoside (Cy3G5G) contributed to the blotch pigmentation of ‘Sunset Babylon Eyes’, and the amounts of Cy3G5G varied at different developmental stages. Only flavonols but no flavone were found in blotch and non-blotch parts. As a consequence, kaempferol and its derivatives as well as quercetin and its derivatives may act as background colors during flower developmental stages. Despite of the differences in composition, the total content of carotenoids in blotch and non-blotch parts were similar, and carotenoids may just make the petals show a brighter color. Transcriptomic data, quantitative real-time PCR and promoter sequence analyses indicated thatRC7G0058400 (F3’H),RC6G0470600 (DFR)andRC7G0212200 (ANS)may be the key enzyme genes for the early formation and color deepening of blotch at later stages. As for two transcription factor, RC7G0019000 (MYB) and RC1G0363600 (WRKY) may bind to the promoters of critical enzyme genes, or RC1G0363600 (WRKY) may bind to the promoter ofRC7G0019000 (MYB)to activate the anthocyanin accumulation in blotch parts of ‘Sunset Babylon Eyes’.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a theoretical basis for the understanding of the chemical and molecular mechanism for the formation of petal blotch in rose.
Contribution of individual and cumulative frailty-related health deficits on cardiac rehabilitation completion
Authors: Hillier Troy , MacEachern Evan , Kehler Dustin S. , Giacomantonio Nicholas
Published: January 2023

Background

Despite the high burden of frailty among cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participants, it is unclear which frailty-related deficits are related to program completion.

Methods

Data from a single-centre exercise- and education-based CR program were included. A frailty index (FI) based on 25 health deficits was constructed. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of CR completion based on the presence of individual FI items. The odds of completion for cumulative deficits related to biomarkers, body composition, quality of life, as well as a composite of traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factor domains were examined.

Results

A total of 3,756 individuals were included in analyses. Eight of 25 FI variables were positively associated with program completion while 8 others were negatively associated with completion. The variable with the strongest positive association was the food frequency questionnaire score (OR 1.27 (95% CI 1.14, 1.41), whereas the deficit with strongest negative association was a decline in health over the last year (OR 0.74 (95% CI 0.58, 0.93). An increased number of cardiovascular deficits were associated with an increased odds of CR completion (OR per 1 deficit increase 1.16 (95% CI 1.11, 1.22)). A higher number of traditional CR deficits were predictive of CR completion (OR 1.22 (95% CI 1.16, 1.29)), but non-traditional measures predicted non-completion (OR 0.95 (95% CI 0.92, 0.97)).

Conclusion

A greater number of non-traditional cardiovascular deficits was associated with non-completion. These data should be used to implement intervention to patients who are most vulnerable to drop out to maximize retention.
Benchmarking of two bioinformatic workflows for the analysis of whole-genome sequenced Staphylococcus aureus collected from patients with suspected sepsis
Authors: Shemirani Mahnaz Irani , Tilevik Diana , Tilevik Andreas , Jurcevic Sanja , Arnellos Dimitrios , Enroth Helena , Pernestig Anna-Karin
Published: January 2023

Background

The rapidly growing area of sequencing technologies, and more specifically bacterial whole-genome sequencing, could offer applications in clinical microbiology, including species identification of bacteria, prediction of genetic antibiotic susceptibility and virulence genes simultaneously. To accomplish the aforementioned points, the commercial cloud-based platform, 1928 platform (1928 Diagnostics, Gothenburg, Sweden) was benchmarked against an in-house developed bioinformatic pipeline as well as to reference methods in the clinical laboratory.

Methods

Whole-genome sequencing data retrieved from 264 Staphylococcus aureus isolates using the Illumina HiSeq X next-generation sequencing technology was used. The S. aureus isolates were collected during a prospective observational study of community-onset severe sepsis and septic shock in adults at Skaraborg Hospital, in the western region of Sweden. The collected isolates were characterized according to accredited laboratory methods i.e., species identification by MALDI-TOF MS analysis and phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) by following the EUCAST guidelines. Concordance between laboratory methods and bioinformatic tools, as well as concordance between the bioinformatic tools was assessed by calculating the percent of agreement.

Results

There was an overall high agreement between predicted genotypic AST and phenotypic AST results, 98.0% (989/1006, 95% CI 97.3–99.0). Nevertheless, the 1928 platform delivered predicted genotypic AST results with lower very major error rates but somewhat higher major error rates compared to the in-house pipeline. There were differences in processing times i.e., minutes versus hours, where the 1928 platform delivered the results faster. Furthermore, the bioinformatic workflows showed overall 99.4% (1267/1275, 95% CI 98.7–99.7) agreement in genetic prediction of the virulence gene characteristics and overall 97.9% (231/236, 95% CI 95.0–99.2%) agreement in predicting the sequence types (ST) of the S. aureus isolates.

Conclusions

Altogether, the benchmarking disclosed that both bioinformatic workflows are able to deliver results with high accuracy aiding diagnostics of severe infections caused by S. aureus. It also illustrates the need of international agreement on quality control and metrics to facilitate standardization of analytical approaches for whole-genome sequencing based predictions.
Factors associated with refusal of preventive therapy after initial willingness to accept treatment among college students with latent tuberculosis infection in Shandong, China
Authors: Yuan Yemin , Jin Jin , Bi Xiuli , Geng Hong , Li Shixue , Zhou Chengchao
Published: January 2023

Background

Preventive therapy of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is an important component of tuberculosis (TB) control. Research on acceptance of TB preventive therapy (TPT) is an important topic. Current studies focus on acceptability and compliance. However, it is unclear whether LTBI patients will start TPT after accepting treatment. The study assessed the factors associated with TPT refusal after initial willingness to accept treatment.

Methods

Data were derived from a baseline survey of prospective study of LTBI treatment among college students in Shandong Province, China. A total of 723 students initially willing to accept TPT were included in the analysis. Stepwise logistic regression was used to explore the individual- and family-level characteristic variables that factors associated with TPT refusal after initial willingness to accept treatment.

Results

Of the 723 LTBI college students who initially had acceptance willingness, 436 (60.3%) finally refused TPT. At the individual level, non-medical students were more likely to refuse TPT [odds ratio (OR) = 4.87, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.10–7.67)], as were students with moderate physical activity (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.04–2.04). Students with boarding experience (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.31–0.78) and a high level of knowledge about TB (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95–0.99) were less likely to refuse TPT. At the family level, those with high father’s educational level (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.07–2.10) or high household income (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.20–2.71) were more likely to refuse TPT after initially accepting treatment.

Conclusions

Factors associated with TPT refusal after initial willingness to accept treatment, such as personal (type of students, physical activity, boarding experiences, knowledge of TB) and family characteristics (father’s education level, household income) among college student with LTBI, might help identify persons for whom tailored interventions could improve the start of LTBI treatment.
Socioeconomic differentials of trends in the prevalence and economic burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rural southwest China
Authors: Cai Le , Wang Xu-Ming , Liu Lan , Zhao Yi , Golden Allison Rabkin
Published: January 2023

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity, and imposes a substantial financial burden on society. However, few studies have examined the role of individual socioeconomic status (SES) in temporal trends of COPD prevalence and economic cost. This study aimed to uncover the changing prevalence and economic burden of COPD across socioeconomic gradients in rural southwest China.

Methods

Data were collected from two cross-sectional health interviews and examination surveys administered 10 years apart among individuals aged ≥ 35 years in rural China. A prevalence-based cost-of-illness method was used to estimate the cost of COPD. The individual socioeconomic position (SEP) index was constructed using principal component analysis. Post-bronchodilator spirometry tests were performed for each participant.

Results

From 2011 to 2021, the prevalence of COPD increased from 8.7% to 12.8% (P < 0.01), while the economic cost of COPD increased 1.9-fold. Unit hospital costs and outpatient costs increased 1.57–fold and 1.47–fold, while unit medication costs fell by 10.6%. Increasing prevalence was also observed when the data were stratified by sex, age, ethnicity, level of education, level of income, and SEP (P < 0.05). Men, ethnic minorities, and those with a lower educational level, lower income, or lower SEP had a higher prevalence of COPD than their counterparts both in 2011 and 2021 (P < 0.05). Unit outpatient costs and medication costs increased with patients’ SEP in both survey years (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence and economic costs of COPD increased substantially across all socioeconomic gradients in rural southwest China in the decade from 2011 and 2021. Future COPD prevention and management interventions as well as efforts to improve access to affordable COPD medication and treatment should focus in particular on ethnic minority and low SEP populations.
A review of 14 cases of perianal Paget’s disease: characteristics of anorectal cancer with pagetoid spread
Authors: Imaizumi Jun , Moritani Konosuke , Takamizawa Yasuyuki , Inoue Manabu , Tsukamoto Shunsuke , Kanemitsu Yukihide
Published: January 2023

Background

Perianal Paget’s disease (PPD) is an intraepithelial invasion of the perianal skin and is frequently associated with underlying anorectal carcinoma. The relatively rare nature of this disease has made it difficult to develop treatment recommendations. This study aims to analyze the clinical and pathological features of perianal Paget’s disease (PPD) and to explore rational treatment options and follow-up for this disease.

Methods

The National Cancer Center Hospital database was searched for all cases of perianal Paget’s disease diagnosed between 2006 and 2021. In the 14 patients identified, we reviewed the diagnosis, management, and outcomes of adenocarcinoma with pagetoid spread, including suspected or recurrent cases.

Results

All 14 cases met the inclusion criteria. The median follow-up period after diagnosis was 4.5 (range, 0.1–13.0) years. Pagetoid spread before initial treatment was suspected in 12 cases (85.7%). Underlying rectal cancer was identified in 6 cases, and no primary tumor was detected in the other 6 cases. Seven patients had recurrent disease, with the median time to recurrence of 34.6 (range, 19.2–81.7) months. The time to the first relapse was 3 months, and that to the second relapse was 6 months. The overall 5-year survival rate was 90.0%.

Conclusions

Endoscopic and radiologic evaluation, as well as immunohistologic examination, should be performed. is to differentiate PPD with and without underlying anorectal carcinoma. The time to first recurrence varies widely, and long-term and regular follow-up for more than 5 years is considered necessary for local recurrence and distant metastasis.
A new PEDV strain CH/HLJJS/2022 can challenge current detection methods and vaccines
Authors: Yao Xin , Qiao Wen-Ting , Zhang Yu-Qian , Lu Wei-Hong , Wang Zhen-Wei , Li Hui-Xin , Li Jin-Long
Published: January 2023

Background

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) variant strains cause great economic losses to the global swine industry. However, vaccines do not provide sufficient protection against currently circulating strains due to viral mutations. This study traced the molecular characteristics of the most recent isolates in China and aimed to provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of PEDV.

Methods

We obtained samples from a Chinese diarrheal swine farm in 2022. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence were used to determine the etiology, and the full-length PEDV genome was sequenced. Nucleotide similarity was calculated using MEGA to construct a phylogenetic tree and DNASTAR. Mutant amino acids were aligned using DNAMAN and modeled by SWISS-MODEL, Phyre2 and FirstGlance in JMOL for protein tertiary structure simulation. Additionally, TMHMM was used for protein function prediction.

Results

A PEDV virulent strain CH/HLJJS/2022 was successfully isolated in China. A genome-wide based phylogenetic analysis suggests that it belongs to the GII subtype, and 96.1–98.9% homology existed in the whole genomes of other strains. For the first time, simultaneous mutations of four amino acids were found in the highly conserved membrane (M) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins, as well as eight amino acid mutations that differed from the vast majority of strains in the spike (S) protein. Three of the mutations alter the S-protein spatial structure. In addition, typing markers exist during strain evolution, but isolates are using the fusion of specific amino acids from multiple variant strains to add additional features, as also demonstrated by protein alignments and 3D models of numerous subtype strains.

Conclusion

The newly isolated prevalent strain CH/HLJJS/2022 belonged to the GII subtype, and thirteen mutations different from other strains were found, including mutations in the highly conserved m and N proteins, and in the S1° and COE neutralizing epitopes of the S protein. PEDV is breaking through original cognitions and moving on a more complex path. Surveillance for PEDV now and in the future and improvements derived from mutant strain vaccines are highly warranted.
Inhibiting the glycerophosphodiesterase EDI3 in ER-HER2+ breast cancer cells resistant to HER2-targeted therapy reduces viability and tumour growth
Authors: Keller Magdalena , Rohlf Katharina , Glotzbach Annika , Leonhardt Gregor , Lüke Simon , Derksen Katharina , Demirci Özlem , Göçener Defne , AlWahsh Mohammad , Lambert Jörg , Lindskog Cecilia , Schmidt Marcus , Brenner Walburgis , Baumann Matthias , Zent Eldar , Zischinsky Mia-Lisa , Hellwig Birte , Madjar Katrin , Rahnenführer Jörg , Overbeck Nina , Reinders Jörg , Cadenas Cristina , Hengstler Jan G. , Edlund Karolina , Marchan Rosemarie
Published: January 2023

Background

Intrinsic or acquired resistance to HER2-targeted therapy is often a problem when small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors or antibodies are used to treat patients with HER2 positive breast cancer. Therefore, the identification of new targets and therapies for this patient group is warranted. Activated choline metabolism, characterized by elevated levels of choline-containing compounds, has been previously reported in breast cancer. The glycerophosphodiesterase EDI3 (GPCPD1), which hydrolyses glycerophosphocholine to choline and glycerol-3-phosphate, directly influences choline and phospholipid metabolism, and has been linked to cancer-relevant phenotypes in vitro. While the importance of choline metabolism has been addressed in breast cancer, the role of EDI3 in this cancer type has not been explored.

Methods

EDI3 mRNA and protein expression in human breast cancer tissue were investigated using publicly-available Affymetrix gene expression microarray datasets (n = 540) and with immunohistochemistry on a tissue microarray (n = 265), respectively. A panel of breast cancer cell lines of different molecular subtypes were used to investigate expression and activity of EDI3 in vitro. To determine whether EDI3 expression is regulated by HER2 signalling, the effect of pharmacological inhibition and siRNA silencing of HER2, as well as the influence of inhibiting key components of signalling cascades downstream of HER2 were studied. Finally, the influence of silencing and pharmacologically inhibiting EDI3 on viability was investigated in vitro and on tumour growth in vivo.

Results

In the present study, we show that EDI3 expression is highest in ER-HER2 + human breast tumours, and both expression and activity were also highest in ER-HER2 + breast cancer cell lines. Silencing HER2 using siRNA, as well as inhibiting HER2 signalling with lapatinib decreased EDI3 expression. Pathways downstream of PI3K/Akt/mTOR and GSK3β, and transcription factors, including HIF1α, CREB and STAT3 were identified as relevant in regulating EDI3 expression. Silencing EDI3 preferentially decreased cell viability in the ER-HER2 + cells. Furthermore, silencing or pharmacologically inhibiting EDI3 using dipyridamole in ER-HER2 + cells resistant to HER2-targeted therapy decreased cell viability in vitro and tumour growth in vivo.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that EDI3 may be a potential novel therapeutic target in patients with HER2-targeted therapy-resistant ER-HER2 + breast cancer that should be further explored.