bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnobiological methods enhance our capacity to document potential climate sentinels: a loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) case study
Authors: Early-Capistrán Michelle María , Crane Nicole L. , Crowder Larry B. , Garibay-Melo Gerardo , Seminoff Jeffrey A. , Johnston David
Published: May 2024

The accelerated pace of climate-driven shifts is surpassing the temporal scope of conventional field research, potentially leading to a disconnect between ecosystem changes and scientific data collection. Climate change is producing rapid transformations within dynamic marine ecosystems, with a pronounced effect on high trophic-level species such as loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). We present a new model for data collection using ethnobiological methods, emphasizing how local community members can contribute to expanding scientific knowledge via context-informed observations, to document species occurrences beyond their anticipated habitats during climatic anomalies. In rapidly changing conditions, local expert knowledge can complement conventional scientific methods, providing high-quality data with extensive coverage—especially for elusive species—and yielding insight into potential emerging phenomena that may otherwise go unnoticed. Conventional methods for predicting distribution shifts in rare species are vulnerable to spatial biases, favoring predictions based on the most probable habitats. We present the case study of a live sea turtle sighting by a local expert in Monterey Bay, California, USA, identified post hoc as a loggerhead, to illustrate methods which can be transferred and applied to other rare and highly migratory marine species such as marine mammals, sharks, and seabirds. This emerging framework incorporates diverse knowledge sources and methodologies in monitoring climate-driven ecological shifts, enriching conservation strategies, enhancing our understanding of complex ecosystems, and contributing to robust evidentiary standards for rare species observations.
Successful treatment of Giant keloid on the right toes using trepanation combined with superficial radiotherapy (SRT-100): a case report with literature review
Authors: Song Ying-hua , Zhu Hui-min , Chen Dan , Qu Zi-lu , Zhang Liang , Wei Li
Published: May 2024

In dermatology, a keloid is one of the most common skin morphological abnormalities caused by excessive proliferation of fibroblasts. Keloids that are large or occur near important joint sites often cause varying degrees of physiological dysfunction in patients, therefore requiring medical treatment. A boy with congenital syndactyly developed huge keloids at the surgical site after undergoing surgical correction treatment. After treatment using trepanation combined with superficial radiotherapy (SRT-100) in our hospital, most of the boy’s keloids shrank and flattened. The affected foot returned to its normal appearance, and the boy could wear shoes normally. The boy did not complain of pain, numbness, or any other distinctive discomfort after completing the treatment. This suggested that the combination of trepanation and SRT-100 may be one of the options for treating hypertrophic keloids that cannot be treated by surgical excision.
Efficiency of polymyxin B treatment against nosocomial infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Liyuan , Zhang Zhongheng , Qi Xueyan , Zhong Yanjun , Sun Tongwen , Chen Lvlin , Zhu Junchen , Lv Xiangui , Ma Penglin
Published: May 2024

Background

Some cohort studies have explored the effects and safety of polymyxin B (PMB) in comparison to other antibiotics for the treatment of nosocomial infections, yielding inconsistent results. This systematic review aims to explore the effectiveness and safety of PMB and compared it with other antibiotics.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, searching specific terms to identify quantitative cohort studies or RCTs that compared the effects of PMB with other antibiotics in terms of their efficacy and safety. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) was conducted to evaluate the risk of bias of observational studies. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used for outcome assessment. We evaluated heterogeneity using the I2 test.

Results

A total of 22 observational trials were included in the analysis. The PMB group had a higher mortality rate compared to the control group (odds ratio: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.36–2.50, p<0.00001, I2 = 73%). while, the ceftazidime-avibactam group demonstrated a distinct advantage with lower mortality rates, despite still exhibiting high heterogeneity (odds ratio 2.73, 95% confidence interval 1.59–4.69; p = 0.0003; I2 = 53%). Additionally, the PMB group had a lower nephrotoxicity rate compared to the colistin group but exhibited high heterogeneity in the results (odds ratio 0.58, 95% CI 0.36–0.93; p = 0.02; I2 = 73%).

Conclusion

In patients with nosocomial infections, PMB is not superior to other antibiotics in terms of mortality, specifically when compared to ceftazidime-avibactam. However, PMB demonstrated an advantage in terms of nephrotoxicity compared to colistin.
Detection of two alphaviruses: Middelburg virus and Sindbis virus from enzootic amplification cycles in southwestern Uganda
Authors: Graff Selina Laura , Eibner Georg Joachim , Ochieng James Robert , Jones Terry C. , Nsubuga Anthony Mutebi , Lutwama Julius Julian , Rwego Innocent Bidason , Junglen Sandra
Published: May 2024

Our knowledge of alphavirus genetic diversity is mainly based on viruses isolated from anthropophilic mosquito species, humans, and livestock during outbreaks. Studies on alphaviruses from sylvatic amplification cycles in sub-Saharan Africa have been conducted less often than from epizootic environments. To gain insight into alphavirus diversity in enzootic transmission cycles, we collected over 23,000 mosquitoes in lowland rainforest and savannah gallery forest in southwestern Uganda and tested them for alphavirus infections. We detected Sindbis virus (SINV) in a Culex Culex sp. mosquito and Middelburg virus (MIDV) in Eretmapodites intermedius and Mansonia africana. MIDV is a mosquito-borne alphavirus that causes febrile illness in sheep, goats, and horses and was previously not known to occur in Uganda. SINV, also a mosquito-borne alphavirus, causes mild infections in humans. Full genomes of SINV and MIDV were sequenced, showing a nucleotide identity of 99% to related strains. Both isolates replicated to high titres in a wide variety of vertebrate cells. Our data suggest endemic circulation of SINV and MIDV in Uganda.
Exploring the multifaceted role of direct interaction between cancer cells and fibroblasts in cancer progression
Authors: Dhungel Nilu , Dragoi Ana-Maria
Published: May 2024

The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the cancer cells is a complex and mutually beneficial system that leads to rapid cancer cells proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. It is now recognized that cancer cells are not isolated, and tumor progression is governed among others, by many components of the TME. The reciprocal cross-talk between cancer cells and their microenvironment can be indirect through the secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and paracrine signaling through exosomes, cytokines, and growth factors, or direct by cell-to-cell contact mediated by cell surface receptors and adhesion molecules. Among TME components, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are of unique interest. As one of the most abundant components of the TME, CAFs play key roles in the reorganization of the extracellular matrix, facilitating metastasis and chemotherapy evasion. Both direct and indirect roles have been described for CAFs in modulating tumor progression. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the role of direct contact between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in driving tumor development and metastasis. We also summarize recent findings on the role of direct contact between cancer cells and CAFs in chemotherapy resistance.
The characteristics of brain atrophy prior to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease: a longitudinal study
Authors: Hu Ying , Zhu Ting , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

Objective

We aimed to use the onset time of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as the reference time to longitudinally investigate the atrophic characteristics of brain structures prior to the onset of AD.

Materials and methods

A total of 328 participants from the ADNI database with clear onset of AD and structural imaging data were included in our study. The time before the onset of AD (abbreviated as BAD) was calculated. We investigated the longitudinal brain changes in 97 regions using multivariate linear mixed effects regression models.

Results

The average BAD was −28.15 months, with a range from −156 to 0 months. The 54 brain regions showed significant atrophy prior to the onset of AD, and these regions were mainly distributed in the frontal and temporal lobes. The parietal and occipital lobe exhibited relatively less atrophy than the other brain lobes. Sex, age, and magnetic field strength had greater direct impacts on structural indicators than APOE genotype and education. The analysis of interaction effects revealed that the APOE ε4 mutation carriers exhibited more severe structural changes in specific brain regions as the BAD increased. However, sex, age, and education had minimal regulatory influence on the structural changes associated with BAD.

Conclusion

Longitudinal analysis, with the onset time point of AD as the reference, can accurately describe the features of structural changes preceding the onset of AD and provide a comprehensive understanding of AD development.
Care dependency in older stroke patients with comorbidities: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Lin Qinger , Dong Xiaohang , Huang Tianrong , Zhou Hongzhen
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To explore latent profiles of care dependency in older stroke patients with comorbidities and to analyze the factors influencing different latent profiles.

Methods

A total of 312 older ischemic stroke patients with comorbidities were included in the analysis. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was used to classify the participants into potential subgroups with different types of care dependency. The influencing factors of the classification of care dependency subgroups were determined using multivariate Logistic regression analysis.

Results

The care dependency score of older ischemic stroke patients with comorbidities was (51.35 ± 13.19), and the patients could be classified into 3 profiles, namely Universal dependency (24.0%), Moderate activity-social-learning dependency (28.0%), and Mild activity-social-learning dependency (48.0%); caregiver, BI at admission, and functional impairments were independent factors influencing care dependency (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

There are three latent profiles of care dependency in older ischemic stroke patients with comorbidities. According to the characteristics of various populations, medical staff are able to implement specific interventions to lower the level of dependency and further improve the quality of life of patients.
Simulated dynamical transitions in a heterogeneous marmoset pFC cluster
Authors: Pailthorpe Bernard A.
Published: May 2024

Network analysis of the marmoset cortical connectivity data indicates a significant 3D cluster in and around the pre-frontal cortex. A multi-node, heterogeneous neural mass model of this six-node cluster was constructed. Its parameters were informed by available experimental and simulation data so that each neural mass oscillated in a characteristic frequency band. Nodes were connected with directed, weighted links derived from the marmoset structural connectivity data. Heterogeneity arose from the different link weights and model parameters for each node. Stimulation of the cluster with an incident pulse train modulated in the standard frequency bands induced a variety of dynamical state transitions that lasted in the range of 5–10 s, suggestive of timescales relevant to short-term memory. A short gamma burst rapidly reset the beta-induced transition. The theta-induced transition state showed a spontaneous, delayed reset to the resting state. An additional, continuous gamma wave stimulus induced a new beating oscillatory state. Longer or repeated gamma bursts were phase-aligned with the beta oscillation, delivering increasing energy input and causing shorter transition times. The relevance of these results to working memory is yet to be established, but they suggest interesting opportunities.
The relationship between rehabilitation motivation and upper limb motor function in stroke patients
Authors: Li Wenxi , Zhu Guangyue , Lu Yang , Wu Jinglei , Fu Zhuoxin , Tang Junyi , Zhang Guohui , Xu Dongsheng
Published: May 2024

Objective

Insufficient motivation among post-stroke survivors may be an important factor affecting their motor function recovery. This study seeks to investigate the relationship between motivation and functional recovery in stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation training.

Materials and methods

103 stroke patients with upper limb impairments were studied during their hospital stays. Assessments were done before and after rehabilitation training to measure motivation, emotional state, motor function, and independence in daily activities. Data analysis was conducted to examine the distribution of these factors among the participants. Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses were used to study the relationships between motivation, emotional state, and motor function. Patients were divided into high and low motivation groups based on the Rehabilitation Motivation Scale (RMS), and chi-square and rank-sum tests were used to compare functional differences before and after treatment among patients with varying levels of motivation.

Results

66 participants were found to have low motivation in the initial assessment of the RMS (64.08%). Consistency in motivation levels was observed among patients with high motivation (r = 0.648, P<0.001). Apathy was identified as the main factor affecting motivation in patients with low motivation (p = 0.027), while depression and anxiety were not significantly correlated. Motivation was strongly linked to improvements in upper limb motor function, daily living activities, and self-exercise duration (p < 0.001) for stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation. Post-training, there was a notable increase in motivation, motor function, and independence in daily activities (p < 0.001). Increased rehabilitation motivation was linked to better upper limb motor function and daily independence in patients, particularly those with low motivation. This correlation was significant for both the FMA-UE and FIM scores.

Discussion

Old patients with poor upper limb motor function often have low motivation, which hinders their recovery. Using strategies to boost motivation in stroke patients with impaired upper limb function could greatly improve their rehabilitation and motor skills. It is crucial to prioritize these intervention strategies.

Conclusion

Enhancing rehabilitation motivation in stroke patients with low motivation and upper limb motor impairments can foster the restoration of their functional capabilities.
A joint model for lesion segmentation and classification of MS and NMOSD
Authors: Huang Lan , Shao Yangguang , Yang Hui , Guo Chunjie , Wang Yan , Zhao Ziqi , Gong Yingchun
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are mimic autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system with a very high disability rate. Their clinical symptoms and imaging findings are similar, making it difficult to diagnose and differentiate. Existing research typically employs the T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (T2-FLAIR) MRI imaging technique to focus on a single task in MS and NMOSD lesion segmentation or disease classification, while ignoring the collaboration between the tasks.

Methods

To make full use of the correlation between lesion segmentation and disease classification tasks of MS and NMOSD, so as to improve the accuracy and speed of the recognition and diagnosis of MS and NMOSD, a joint model is proposed in this study. The joint model primarily comprises three components: an information-sharing subnetwork, a lesion segmentation subnetwork, and a disease classification subnetwork. Among them, the information-sharing subnetwork adopts a dualbranch structure composed of a convolution module and a Swin Transformer module to extract local and global features, respectively. These features are then input into the lesion segmentation subnetwork and disease classification subnetwork to obtain results for both tasks simultaneously. In addition, to further enhance the mutual guidance between the tasks, this study proposes two information interaction methods: a lesion guidance module and a crosstask loss function. Furthermore, the lesion location maps provide interpretability for the diagnosis process of the deep learning model.

Results

The joint model achieved a Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 74.87% on the lesion segmentation task and accuracy (ACC) of 92.36% on the disease classification task, demonstrating its superior performance. By setting up ablation experiments, the effectiveness of information sharing and interaction between tasks is verified.

Discussion

The results show that the joint model can effectively improve the performance of the two tasks.
Turmeric: from spice to cure. A review of the anti-cancer, radioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric sourced compounds
Authors: Cozmin Mihai , Lungu Ionut Iulian , Gutu Cristian , Stefanache Alina , Duceac Letitia Doina , Șoltuzu Bogdan Dorin , Damir Daniela , Calin Gabriela , Bogdan Goroftei Elena Roxana , Grierosu Carmen , Boev Monica
Published: May 2024

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been extensively studied for its diverse pharmacological properties, including its potential role as an anticancer agent, antioxidant, and radioprotector. This review provides an overview of the chemical composition of turmeric, focusing on its main bioactive compounds, such as curcuminoids and volatile oils. Curcumin, the most abundant curcuminoid in turmeric, has been widely investigated for its various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the ability of curcumin to modulate multiple signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis, leading to inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and suppression of metastasis. Furthermore, curcumin has shown promising potential as a radioprotective agent by mitigating radiation-induced oxidative stress and DNA damage. Additionally, turmeric extracts containing curcuminoids have been reported to exhibit potent antioxidant activity, scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative damage. The multifaceted pharmacological properties of turmeric make it a promising candidate for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for cancer prevention and treatment, as well as for the management of oxidative stress-related disorders. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action and to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of turmeric and its bioactive constituents in cancer therapy and radioprotection. This review consolidates the most recent relevant data on turmeric’s chemical composition and its therapeutic applications, providing a comprehensive overview of its potential in cancer prevention and treatment, as well as in radioprotection.
Clinicopathological features of two cases of ETV6-NTRK3 rearranged papillary thyroid carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Ke Jing , Cao Minghua , Zhang Wenzhong , Huang Hua , Chen Ping , Liu Jinhua , Shan Dan , Ke Jie , Wang Zerui , Liu Junchen , Li Yuan , Xiao Sheng
Published: May 2024

Rearrangements involving the neurotrophic-tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK) gene family (NTRK1, NTRK2, and NTRK3) have been identified as drivers in a wide variety of human cancers. However, the association between NTRK rearranged thyroid carcinoma and clinicopathological characteristics has not yet been established. In our study, we retrospectively reviewed medical records of thyroid cancer patients and identified 2 cases with NTRK rearrangement, no additional molecular alterations were observed in either of these cases. The fusion of the rearrangement in both cases was ETV6(E4)::NTRK3(E14). By analyzing the clinicopathological features of these two cases, we found that both were characterized by multiple tumor nodules, invasive growth, and central lymph node metastases, indicating the follicular subtype of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining profiles showed CD56-, CK19+, Galectin-3+, HBME1+. These clinicopathological features suggest the possibility of ETV6-NTRK3 rearranged thyroid carcinoma and highlight the importance of performing gene fusion testing by FISH or NGS for these patients.
Health-related quality of life in adults with hematological cancer: a 2023 cross-sectional survey from Qatar
Authors: Abdu Yasamin , Ahmed Khalid , Abdou Mariam , Elhussein Rayan , Sirelkhatim Sayda , Bougmiza Iheb , Yassin Mohamed A. , Selim Nagah A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Hematological cancers impose a complex burden on individuals, affecting their physical health and mental and emotional well-being. This study evaluated the health-related Quality of Life (HRQOL) and its determinants among adults with hematological cancers in Qatar in 2023.

Methods

A cross-sectional study used a validated structured questionnaire conducted among adult patients diagnosed with hematological cancers. All adult patients who attended The National Centre for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) in Qatar during the Data collection period (January to March 2023) and agreed to participate were included in the study.

Results

A total of 257 participants were enrolled in the study. The highest median (IQR) score of the HRQOL domain was observed in the functionating score of 90.6 (13.8), followed by the global health score of 83.3(25. 0). The median (IQR) of the symptoms burden score was 07.4(12.3). Gender significantly affects HRQOL, with males reporting better functioning and lower symptom burden than females. Employment status is positively associated with functioning scores. Regular exercise correlates with higher global health and functioning scores and lower symptom burden, while depressive symptoms are linked to poorer HRQOL outcomes. Patients experiencing cancer recurrence or active disease report lower global health and functioning scores and higher symptom burden. Treatment modalities such as chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant (BMT) timing also influence HRQOL, with recent treatment recipients showing lower global health and higher symptom burden scores. Depressive symptoms were the primary factor, lowering the global health score by 15.2%. Regarding the low functioning score predictors, female gender, depressive symptoms, and cancer recurrence emerged as significant predictors of the low functioning score. Furthermore, Regular exercise increased the functioning score by 03.4 units (p-value=0.018). Finally, Multiple linear regression analysis reinforced the significance of depressive symptoms, active disease status, and recurrence within the past five years as substantial predictors of higher symptom scores.

Conclusions

The study emphasizes the profound impact of depressive symptoms on all aspects of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), mainly affecting global health. It highlights the positive role of regular exercise in enhancing global health, functioning, and symptom burden scores.
The association between HLA-B variants and amoxicillin-induced severe cutaneous adverse reactions in Chinese han population
Authors: Wang Ting , Yang Jin , Yang Fanping , Cheng Ye , Huang Zichong , Li Bei , Yang Linlin , Xing Qinghe , Luo Xiaoqun
Published: May 2024

Background

Amoxicillin (AMX) is among the most prescribed and the best tolerated antimicrobials worldwide. However, it can occasionally trigger severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) with a significant morbidity and mortality. The genetic factors that may be relevant to AMX-induced SCAR (AMX-SCAR) remain unclear. Identification of the genetic risk factor may prevent patients from the risk of AMX exposure and resume therapy with other falsely implicated drugs.

Methodology

Four patients with AMX-SCAR, 1,000 population control and 100 AMX-tolerant individuals were enrolled in this study. Both exome-wide and HLA-based association studies were conducted. Molecular docking analysis was employed to simulate the interactions between AMX and risk HLA proteins.

Results

Compared with AMX-tolerant controls, a significant association of HLA-B*15:01 with AMX-SCAR was validated [odds ratio (OR) = 22.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.68–1275.67; p = 7.34 × 10−3]. Moreover, 75% carriers of HLA-B*15:01 in four patients with AMX-SCAR, and the carrier frequency of 10.7% in 1,000 control individuals and 11.0% in 100 AMX-tolerant controls, respectively. Within HLA-B protein, the S140 present in all cases and demonstrated the strongest association with AMX-SCAR [OR = 53.5, p = 5.18 × 10−4]. Molecular docking results also confirmed the interaction between AMX and S140 of the HLA-B protein, thus eliminating the false-positive results during in association analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that genetic susceptibility may be involved in the development of AMX-SCAR in Han Chinese. However, whether the HLA-B variants observed in this study can be used as an effective genetic marker of AMX-induced SCAR still needs to be further explored in larger cohort studies and other ethnic populations.
Research on multi-layer network topology optimization strategy for railway internet of things based on game theory benefits
Authors: Wang Fang , Su Kaixuan , Liang Bo , Yao Jian , Bai Wei
Published: May 2024

In the railway system environment, the interconnection of a vast array of intelligent sensing devices has brought about revolutionary changes in the management and monitoring of railway transportation. However, this also poses challenges to the communication service quality within the railway Internet of Things (IoT). Through collective intelligence and collaboration, the nodes within the railway IoT can not only share data and information but also work synergistically to enhance the overall intelligence level and improve decision-making quality of the network. Therefore, this paper proposes a reconnection mechanism based on the computation of node game-theoretic benefits and optimizes this process with the concept of swarm intelligence collaboration. Initially, the game-theoretic benefit values of the nodes in the railway IoT network are calculated. Subsequently, based on the weight priority of the edges, the two edges with the larger weights are selected, and connections are established between nodes with similar game-theoretic benefit values to enhance the network’s robustness. This approach enables rapid networking and efficient communication transmission within the railway IoT, providing robust assurance for the safe and stable operation of the railway.
Morphological characterization of Iris hymenospatha and Iris histrio populations in Iran: implications for conservation and breeding
Authors: Rohollahi Iman , Naji Amir Mohammad , Stewart J. Ryan , Kamrani Rozita
Published: May 2024

The native populations of Iris hymenospatha and Iris histrio, two endangered bulbous species within the large Iris genus in Iridaceae, are threatened with extinction due to mining and other industrial activities in their natural habitats in Central Asia, including Iran. These species not only have a significant economic impact on the global horticultural industry due to their versatility and attractive phenotypic traits, but also have significant ecological value that necessitates their conservation. In this study, we examined the morphological and functional diversity between individuals within these two species, which exhibit high tolerance to environmental stresses. Our study examined 10 populations of I. hymenospatha and two populations of I. histrio based on bulb, flower, and leaf characteristics throughout Iran. We recognized a gradation of five different leaf shapes among I. hymenospatha populations with significant differences between some populations, including “Arak-Khomain” and “Arak-Gerdo”. The “Jaro”, “Natanz-Karkas”, “Ardestan-Taleghan”, “Arak-Rahjerd”, “Arak-Gerdo”, “Ganjnameh”, and “Abas-Abad” populations of I. hymenospatha displayed maximal values in leaf width, stem diameter under flower, crown diameter, flower number, leaf number, and bulb diameter. The I. histrio “Velian” population had a significantly larger flower size, a longer stem length, a larger style width, a longer flowering date, and a higher plant height compared to the “Ganjnameh” population of I. histrio. Such characteristics of both species make them remarkable ornamental plants. Our study also revealed that I. hymenospatha populations grow on different soils and elevations and have the ability to adapt to different growing conditions. Given the threats they face, conservation through horticultural selection and propagation offers a viable conservation strategy for both species. This approach not only preserves the genetic diversity of these species, but also enables their further contribution to the horticultural industry.
The efficiency of chlorophyll fluorescence as a selection criterion for salinity and climate aridity tolerance in barley genotypes
Authors: Hammami Zied , Tounsi-Hammami Soumaya , Nhamo Nhamo , Rezgui Saleh , Trifa Yousef
Published: May 2024

Introduction

In the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region, crop production is being affected by various abiotic factors, including freshwater scarcity, climate, and soil salinity. As a result, farmers in this region are in search of salt-tolerant crops that can thrive in these harsh environments, using poor-quality groundwater. The main staple food crop for most of the countries in this region, Tunisia included, is barley.

Methods

The present study was designed to investigate the sensitivity and tolerance of six distinct barley genotypes to aridity and salinity stresses in five different natural field environments by measuring their photosynthetic activity.

Results and discussion

The results revealed that tolerant genotypes were significantly less affected by these stress factors than sensitive genotypes. The genotypes that were more susceptible to salinity and aridity stress exhibited a significant decline in their photosynthetic activity. Additionally, the fluorescence yields in growth phases J, I, and P declined significantly in the order of humid environment (BEJ), semi-arid site (KAI), and arid environment (MED) and became more significant when salt stress was added through the use of saline water for irrigation. The stress adversely affected the quantum yield of primary photochemistry (φP0), the quantum yield of electron transport (φE0), and the efficiency by trapped excitation (ψ0) in the vulnerable barley genotypes. Moreover, the performance index (PI) of the photosystem II (PSII) was found to be the most distinguishing parameter among the genotypes tested. The PI of sensitive genotypes was adversely affected by aridity and salinity. The PI of ICARDA20 and Konouz decreased by approximately 18% and 33%, respectively, when irrigated with non-saline water. The reduction was even greater, reaching 39%, for both genotypes when irrigated with saline water. However, tolerant genotypes Souihli and Batini 100/1B were less impacted by these stress factors.

The fluorescence study provided insights into the photosynthetic apparatus of barley genotypes under stress. It enabled reliable salinity tolerance screening. Furthermore, the study confirmed that the chlorophyll a fluorescence induction curve had an inflection point (step K) even before the onset of visible signs of stress, indicating physiological disturbances, making chlorophyll fluorescence an effective tool for identifying salinity tolerance in barley.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of protein arginine methyltransferase and JmjC domain-containing family in apple
Authors: Su Shenghui , Ji Min , Chen Jiaqi , Zhang Meidie , Xu Xiaozhao , Cheng Chenxia
Published: May 2024

Histone methylation is an important type of histone modification that regulates gene expression in plants. In this study, we identified 14 arginine methylation-related genes (Protein Arginine Methyltransferase, MdPRMT) and 32 demethylation-related genes (JmjC Domain-Containing Family, MdJMJ) in apple. Furthermore, we investigated the phylogenetic relationship, chromosome distribution, gene structure, motif analysis, promoter sequence analysis, and expression patterns of MdPRMT and MdJMJ genes. Homology analysis showed a high degree of conservation and homology between PRMT and JMJ genes in Arabidopsis and apple. We identified the types of duplicated genes in the MdJMJ and MdPRMT gene families, found a large number of whole-genome duplicates (WGD) gene pairs and a small number of tandem duplicates (TD) pairs, transposed duplication (TRD) gene pairs as well as proximal duplicates (PD) pairs, and discussed the possible evolutionary pathways of the gene families from the perspective of duplicated genes. Homology analysis showed a high degree of conservation and homology between PRMT and JMJ genes in Arabidopsis and apple. In addition, the promoter regions of MdPRMT and MdJMJ contain numerous cis-acting elements involved in plant growth and development, hormone response, and stress responses. Based on the transcriptional profiles of MdPRMT and MdJMJ in different tissues and developmental stages, it was found that MdPRMT and MdJMJ may play multiple roles in apple growth and development, for example, MdJMJ21 may be involved in the regulation of apple endosperm formation. MdPRMT and MdJMJ exhibit different expression patterns in response to hormone signaling in apple, MdJMJ3, MdJMJ18, MdJMJ30, MdPRMT2, MdPRMT13, and MdPRMT14 may play roles in apple response to drought stress, while the expression of MdJMJ13, MdPRMT3, MdPRMT4, and MdPRMT6 is affected by cold stress. Our study provides a foundation for determining the functional roles of MdPRMT and MdJMJ genes in apple.
Identification of male-fertility gene AsaNRF1 and molecular marker development in cultivated garlic (Allium sativum L.)
Authors: Liu Zezhou , Duan Naibin , Yang Zonghui , Yue Lixin , Fei Zhangjun , Kong Suping
Published: May 2024

Garlic cultivars are predominantly characterized by their sterility and reliance on asexual reproduction, which have traditionally prevented the use of hybrid breeding for cultivar improvement in garlic. Our investigation has revealed a notable exception in the garlic line G398, which demonstrates the ability to produce fertile pollen. Notably, at the seventh stage of anther development, callose degradation in the sterile line G390 was impeded, while G398 exhibited normal callose degradation. Transcriptome profiling revealed an enhanced expression of the callose-degrading gene, AsaNRF1, in the mature flower buds of the fertile line G398 compared to the sterile line G390. An insertion in the promoter of AsaNRF1 in G390 was identified, which led to its reduced expression at the tetrad stage and consequently delayed callose degradation, potentially resulting in the male sterility of G390. A discriminatory marker was developed to distinguish between fertile G398 and sterile G390, facilitating the assessment of male fertility in garlic germplasm resources. This study introduces a practical approach to harnessing garlic hybridization, which can further facilitate the breeding of new cultivars and the creation of novel male-fertile garlic germplasm using modern molecular biology methods.
A risk estimation method for depression based on the dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota in Japanese patients
Authors: Okuma Kana , Hatayama Kouta , Tokuno Hidetaka , Ebara Aya , Odachi Ayano , Masuyama Hiroaki , Hoshiko Naomi , Tanaka Nobuaki
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Early detection of depression is important for preventing depression-related suicides and reducing the risk of recurrence. This study explored the association between depression and intestinal microbiota and developed a depression risk-estimation method based on this.

Methods

The intestinal microbiota of Japanese patients with depression (33 males and 35 females) and disease-free controls (246 males and 384 females) in their 20’s to 60’s were compared by sex using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. A depression-risk estimation method was developed using structural equation modeling.

Results

Intestinal bacteria taxa that differed between depression and control groups were identified based on effect size (absolute value greater than 0.2). Neglecta was more abundant, while Coprobacter, Butyricimonas, Clostridium_XlVb, and Romboutsia were less abundant in the male depression group compared to the male control group. In the female depression group, Massilimicrobiota, Merdimonas, and Sellimonas were more abundant, whereas Dorea and Agathobacter were less abundant compared to the female control group. Several of the intestinal bacterial taxa that were less abundant in depression were associated with butyrate or hydrogen production. Using these depression-associated intestinal bacteria as indicators, risk-estimation models using structural equation modeling for depression were developed. In the risk-estimation models for males and females, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.72 and 0.70, respectively, indicating that these models can distinguish between individuals with and without depression.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into depression etiology and aids in its early detection and treatment.
Discriminant analysis of ecological factors influencing sarcopenia in older people in South Korea
Authors: Ra Yoonho , Chang Ikyoung , Kim Jiyoun
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the ecological system factors that influence discrimination of sarcopenia among older individuals living in contemporary society. Data analysis included information from 618 older adults individuals aged 65 years or older residing in South Korea. To assess variations in ecological system factors related to SARC-F scores, we conducted correlation analysis and t-tests. Discriminant analysis was used to identify factors contributing to group discrimination. The key findings are summarized as follows. First, significant differences at the p < 0.001 level were observed between the SARC-F score groups in various aspects, including attitudes toward life, wisdom in life, health management, social support, media availability, sports environment, collectivist values, and values associated with death. Further, service environment differences were significant at p < 0.01 level, while social belonging and social activities exhibited significance at p < 0.05. Second, factors influencing group discrimination based on the SARC-F scores were ranked in the following order: health management, attitudes toward life, fear of own death, wisdom in life, physical environment, sports environment, media availability, social support, fear of the own dying, collectivist values, service environment, social activities, and social belonging. Notably, the SARC-F tool, which is used for sarcopenia discrimination, primarily concentrates on physical functioning and demonstrates relatively low sensitivity. Therefore, to enhance the precision of sarcopenia discrimination within a score-based group discrimination process, it is imperative to incorporate ecological system factors that exert a significant influence. These modifications aimed to enhance the clarity and precision of the text in an academic context.
Localization of the questionnaire about sharps disposal at home among diabetes based on knowledge, attitude, and practice theory, and a cross-sectional survey of current conditions
Authors: Zan Haijing , Liu Tao , Meng Zhixing , Wang Jingru
Published: May 2024

Background

Diabetes Mellitus is a long duration disease, and if a person with diabetes is infected with a blood-borne infectious disease and proper syringe disposal practices are not followed, they run the danger of transmitting the infection to others for a very long period. Whereas fewer research has been done in China on the handing of sharp objects at home. Therefore, there is a need to translate and localize the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal for diabetic patients to assess the current level of patient knowledge, attitudes, and practices and to improve the basis for promoting safe sharps handling practices.

Methods

This investigation was a cross-sectional study. The Knowledge-Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal was localized and debugged and tested for reliability and validity, and then 334 patients were investigated by General Characteristics Questionnaire, Knowledge- Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal, and the influencing factors of practice level regarding sharp disposal of patients were analyzed.

Results

The Cronbach’s α value of the attitude section was 0.864 and the content validity index was 0.923. The knowledge and practice sections are in line with continental language conventions and are easy to understand without any ambiguity. The majority (52%) of the participants had poor knowledge and a neutral attitude toward disposing of sharp objects. Sharps disposal practices among diabetes mellitus patients were poor since about 90% of patients dispose of their used sharps directly into the household waste. Furthermore, we found that level of education, knowledge and attitude were the major predictors of practices regarding sharps disposal among diabetic patients (R2 = 0.573, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The Chinese version of the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal has applicability in China. In China, current practice of disposing used sharps is improper. Additionally, the majority of the subjects had low levels of knowledge and attitudes. To raise awareness and encourage diabetic patients to follow appropriate sharps disposal practices, there needs to be ongoing education and a locally tailored safe sharp disposal alternative accessible.
Does the community service environment affect the willingness of older adults people to socialize for older adults care?
Authors: Huang Denghui , Feng Ran , Shi Minxuan
Published: May 2024

Population ageing is a significant trend in social development and will remain a fundamental national condition in China for the foreseeable future. Socialized older adults care has become a crucial strategy for China to address population ageing. However, the current levels of acceptance and willingness to seek socialized older adults care among older adults are relatively low. This study focuses on examining how the community environment and services influence older adults people’s willingness to engage in social activities related to older adults care. Using data from the China Longitudinal Ageing Social Survey (CLASS) (N = 9,657), this study investigated the impact of the community service environment on older adults people’s willingness to participate in social activities related to older adults care through a logit model. The study revealed that 9.15% of older adults (N = 9,657) in China are willing to engage in social activities related to older adults care. Furthermore, the individual characteristics and family support of older adults play a significant role in shaping their willingness to engage in older adults care. The provision of medical services, daily care services, and entertainment venues by the community positively influence older adults people’s willingness to participate in social activities related to older adults care (p < 0.01), whereas psychological counselling services have a negative impact (p < 0.01). The impact of community services on older adults people’s willingness to engage in social activities related to older adults care varies due to factors such as smoking and chronic diseases. These findings provide valuable insights for improving older adults’ social engagement in China.
Characteristics of injuries during the 2006 Lebanon conflict: a three-center retrospective study of survivors, 16 years after the conflict
Authors: Farhat Theresa , Nahouli Hasan , Hajjar Marwan , Abdul-Sater Zahi , Kobeissi Elsa , Menassa Marilyne , Chaya Bachar F. , Elamine Ahmad , El Sheikh Walaa G. , Tamim Hani , Hettiaratchy Shehan , Abu-Sittah Ghassan
Published: May 2024

Background

Armed conflict injury is a growing public health concern, particularly in regions like the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The protracted conflicts and political unrest in this region have led to a substantial number of injuries. Despite this, there is still limited understanding of the specific injury patterns stemming from conflicts, such as the 2006 Lebanon conflict. This study aimed to assess the characteristics and burdens of injuries resulting from this conflict, which occurred 16 years prior to this research.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data of individuals affected by the 2006 Lebanon conflict, across three tertiary care centers. Demographics, injuries, complications, injury management, and hospitalization expenses were extracted from medical records and analyzed using SPSS version 29.0. Categorical variables were presented as counts and proportions, and continuous variables as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Hospital comparisons utilized chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests for categorical variables, and one-way ANOVAs for continuous variables. Analysis was conducted from September to November 2023.

Results

Across three hospitals, 341 patients were studied, comprising 73.6% males and 26.4% females. Among them, a notable proportion (57.3% males and 34.1% females) fell within the 18–39 age range. Children and adolescents under 18 years accounted for 15.9% of males and 25.9% of females. Blast-related injuries predominated, with 24.5% resulting from direct damage caused by explosive parts and 33.3% from blast wave forces. Extremity trauma occurred in 49.0% of patients, and head/neck trauma in 24.9%. Common injuries, including penetrating, musculoskeletal, and traumatic brain injuries affected 34.9%, 31.1, and 10.0% of patients, respectively. Wound repair, fracture treatment, and debridement were the most performed procedures on 15.5, 13.5 and 9.7% of the patients, respectively. The total cost of care was USD 692,711, largely covered by the Ministry of Public Health (95.9%).

Conclusion

Conflict-related injuries significantly contribute to the global burden of disease. Therefore, there is a pressing need to improve national guidelines to prioritize life-threatening cases and potential long-term disabilities. Furthermore, enhancing electronic registry systems to collect clinical data on injured patients is essential for conducting research and better understanding the needs of conflict casualties.