bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic biology enables mushrooms to meet emerging sustainable challenges
Authors: Zou Gen , Li Tian , Mijakovic Ivan , Wei Yongjun
Published: February 2024

With the increasing sustainability challenges, synthetic biology is offering new possibilities for addressing the emerging problems through the cultivation and fermentation of mushrooms. In this perspective, we aim to provide an overview on the research and applications mushroom synthetic biology, emphasizing the need for increased attention and inclusion of this rapidly advancing field in future mushroom technology over China and other countries. By leveraging synthetic biology, mushrooms are expected to play a more versatile role in various area, including traditional fields like circular economy, human wellness and pharmaceutics, as well as emerging fields like vegan meat, mushroom-based materials and pollution abatement. We are confident that these efforts using synthetic biology strategies have the potential to strengthen our capacity to effectively address sustainable challenges, leading to the development of a more sustainable social economy and ecology.
Locus coeruleus features are linked to vagus nerve stimulation response in drug-resistant epilepsy
Authors: Berger Alexandre , Beckers Elise , Joris Vincent , Duchêne Gaëtan , Danthine Venethia , Delinte Nicolas , Cakiroglu Inci , Sherif Siya , Morrison Enrique Ignacio Germany , Sánchez Andres Torres , Macq Benoit , Dricot Laurence , Vandewalle Gilles , El Tahry Riëm
Published: February 2024

The locus coeruleus–norepinephrine system is thought to be involved in the clinical effects of vagus nerve stimulation. This system is known to prevent seizure development and induce long-term plastic changes, particularly with the release of norepinephrine in the hippocampus. However, the requisites to become responder to the therapy and the mechanisms of action are still under investigation. Using MRI, we assessed the structural and functional characteristics of the locus coeruleus and microstructural properties of locus coeruleus-hippocampus white matter tracts in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy responding or not to the therapy. Twenty-three drug-resistant epileptic patients with cervical vagus nerve stimulation were recruited for this pilot study, including 13 responders or partial responders and 10 non-responders. A dedicated structural MRI acquisition allowed in vivo localization of the locus coeruleus and computation of its contrast (an accepted marker of LC integrity). Locus coeruleus activity was estimated using functional MRI during an auditory oddball task. Finally, multi-shell diffusion MRI was used to estimate the structural properties of locus coeruleus-hippocampus tracts. These characteristics were compared between responders/partial responders and non-responders and their association with therapy duration was also explored. In patients with a better response to the therapy, trends toward a lower activity and a higher contrast were found in the left medial and right caudal portions of the locus coeruleus, respectively. An increased locus coeruleus contrast, bilaterally over its medial portions, correlated with duration of the treatment. Finally, a higher integrity of locus coeruleus-hippocampus connections was found in patients with a better response to the treatment. These new insights into the neurobiology of vagus nerve stimulation may provide novel markers of the response to the treatment and may reflect neuroplasticity effects occurring in the brain following the implantation.
Revisiting multi-omics-based predictors of the plasma triglyceride response to an omega-3 fatty acid supplementation
Authors: Morin-Bernier Josiane , de Toro-Martín Juan , Barbe Valentin , San-Cristobal Rodrigo , Lemieux Simone , Rudkowska Iwona , Couture Patrick , Barbier Olivier , Vohl Marie-Claude
Published: February 2024

Background

The aim of the present study was to identify the metabolomic signature of responders and non-responders to an omega-3 fatty acid (n-3 FA) supplementation, and to test the ability of a multi-omics classifier combining genomic, lipidomic, and metabolomic features to discriminate plasma triglyceride (TG) response phenotypes.

Methods

A total of 208 participants of the Fatty Acid Sensor (FAS). Study took 5 g per day of fish oil, providing 1.9–2.2 g eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 1.1 g docosahexaenoic (DHA) daily over a 6-week period, and were further divided into two subgroups: responders and non-responders, according to the change in plasma TG levels after the supplementation. Changes in plasma levels of 6 short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and 25 bile acids (BA) during the intervention were compared between subgroups using a linear mixed model, and the impact of SCFAs and BAs on the TG response was tested in a mediation analysis. Genotyping was conducted using the Illumina Human Omni-5 Quad BeadChip. Mass spectrometry was used to quantify plasma TG and cholesterol esters levels, as well as plasma SCFA and BA levels. A classifier was developed and tested within the DIABLO framework, which implements a partial least squares-discriminant analysis to multi-omics analysis. Different classifiers were developed by combining data from genomics, lipidomics, and metabolomics.

Results

Plasma levels of none of the SCFAs or BAs measured before and after the n-3 FA supplementation were significantly different between responders and non-responders. SCFAs but not BAs were marginally relevant in the classification of plasma TG responses. A classifier built by adding plasma SCFAs and lipidomic layers to genomic data was able to even the accuracy of 85% shown by the genomic predictor alone.

Conclusion

These results inform on the marginal relevance of SCFA and BA plasma levels as surrogate measures of gut microbiome in the assessment of the interindividual variability observed in the plasma TG response to an n-3 FA supplementation. Genomic data still represent the best predictor of plasma TG response, and the inclusion of metabolomic data added little to the ability to discriminate the plasma TG response phenotypes.
Global, regional, and national burden of diet high in processed meat from 1990 to 2019: a systematic analysis from the global burden of disease study 2019
Authors: Wang Feng-Xia , Kong Xiang-Hua , Guo Zhe , Li Lu-Xia , Zhang Shu
Published: February 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to explore the prevalence and attributable burden of diet high in processed meat (DHIPM) in global, regional, and national level due to the burden caused by unhealthy dietary pattern worldwide.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Materials and design

All the data involved in this research were obtained from Global Burden of Diseases Study 2019. DisMod-MR 2.1, a Bayesian meta-regression tool, was used to estimate the prevalence, which was measured by summary exposure value (SEV) and attributable burden of DHIPM. The Spearman rank order correlation method was performed to measure the correlation between sociodemographic index (SDI) and the prevalence as well as attributable burden. The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to demonstrate the temporal trends.

Results

Globally, there were 304.28 thousand deaths and 8556.88 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) caused by DHIPM in 2019 and increased by 34.63 and 68.69%, respectively. The prevalence had decreased slightly from 1990 to 2019, however increased in most regions and countries, especially in middle SDI regions, despite the implicitly high prevalence in high SDI regions. Countries with higher SDI values were facing higher prevalence and attributable burden of DHIPM while developing countries were observed with severer temporal trends. Compared with women, men had suffered from lower exposure level however graver attributable burden of DHIPM in the past three decades.

Conclusion

The progress of continuous urbanization allowed increasingly severe prevalence and attributable burden of DHIPM, thus the challenge to alleviate this trend was acute. Effective measures such as education on beneficial dietary pattern and supplement on healthy food were urgently required, especially in developing regions and countries.
Exploring the efficacy and safety of Ambroxol in Gaucher disease: an overview of clinical studies
Authors: Mohamed Feda E. , Al-Jasmi Fatma
Published: February 2024

Gaucher disease (GD) is mainly caused by glucocerebrosidase (GCase) enzyme deficiency due to genetic variations in the GBA1 gene leading to the toxic accumulation of sphingolipids in various organs, which causes symptoms such as anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, and neurological manifestations. GD is clinically classified into the non-neuronopathic type 1, and the acute and chronic neuronopathic forms, types 2 and 3, respectively. In addition to the current approved GD medications, the repurposing of Ambroxol (ABX) has emerged as a prospective enzyme enhancement therapy option showing its potential to enhance mutated GCase activity and reduce glucosylceramide accumulation in GD-affected tissues of different GBA1 genotypes. The variability in response to ABX varies across different variants, highlighting the diversity in patients’ therapeutic outcomes. Its oral availability and safety profile make it an attractive option, particularly for patients with neurological manifestations. Clinical trials are essential to explore further ABX’s potential as a therapeutic medication for GD to encourage pharmaceutical companies’ investment in its development. This review highlights the potential of ABX as a pharmacological chaperone therapy for GD and stresses the importance of addressing response variability in clinical studies to improve the management of this rare and complex disorder.
Elucidating shared biomarkers in gastroesophageal reflux disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: insights into novel therapeutic targets and the role of angelicae sinensis radix
Authors: Wu Xuanyu , Xiao Xiang , Fang Hanyu , He Cuifang , Wang Hanyue , Wang Miao , Lan Peishu , Wang Fei , Du Quanyu , Yang Han
Published: February 2024

Background: The etiological underpinnings of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remain elusive, coupled with a scarcity of effective therapeutic interventions for IPF. Angelicae sinensis radix (ASR, also named Danggui) is a Chinese herb with potential anti-fibrotic properties, that holds promise as a therapeutic agent for IPF.

Objective: This study seeks to elucidate the causal interplay and potential mechanisms underlying the coexistence of GERD and IPF. Furthermore, it aims to investigate the regulatory effect of ASR on this complex relationship.

Methods: A two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) approach was employed to delineate the causal connection between gastroesophageal reflux disease and IPF, with Phennoscanner V2 employed to mitigate confounding factors. Utilizing single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) and publicly available microarray data, we analyzed potential targets and mechanisms related to IPF in GERD. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to explore the targets and efficacy of ASR in treating GERD-related IPF. External datasets were subsequently utilized to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers for GERD-related IPF.

Results: The IVW analysis demonstrated a positive causal relationship between GERD and IPF (IVW: OR = 1.002, 95%CI: 1.001, 1.003; p < 0.001). Twenty-five shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. GO functional analysis revealed enrichment in neural, cellular, and brain development processes, concentrated in chromosomes and plasma membranes, with protein binding and activation involvement. KEGG analysis unveiled enrichment in proteoglycan, ERBB, and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathways in cancer. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis identified seven hub genes. Network pharmacology analysis demonstrated that 104 components of ASR targeted five hub genes (PDE4B, DRD2, ERBB4, ESR1, GRM8), with molecular docking confirming their excellent binding efficiency. GRM8 and ESR1 emerged as potential diagnostic biomarkers for GERD-related IPF (ESR1: AUCGERD = 0.762, AUCIPF = 0.725; GRM8: AUCGERD = 0.717, AUCIPF = 0.908). GRM8 and ESR1 emerged as potential diagnostic biomarkers for GERD-related IPF, validated in external datasets.

Conclusion: This study establishes a causal link between GERD and IPF, identifying five key targets and two potential diagnostic biomarkers for GERD-related IPF. ASR exhibits intervention efficacy and favorable binding characteristics, positioning it as a promising candidate for treating GERD-related IPF. The potential regulatory mechanisms may involve cell responses to fibroblast growth factor stimulation and steroidal hormone-mediated signaling pathways.
Production of upgraded metallurgical-grade silicon for a low-cost, high-efficiency, and reliable PV technology
Authors: Míguez Novoa José Manuel , Hoffmann Volker , Forniés Eduardo , Mendez Laura , Tojeiro Marta , Ruiz Fernando , Funes Manuel , del Cañizo Carlos , Fuertes Marrón David , Dasilva Villanueva Nerea , Caballero Luis Jaime , Arıkan Bülent , Turan Raşit , Canar Hasan Hüseyin , Sánchez Plaza Guillermo
Published: February 2024

Upgraded metallurgical-grade silicon (UMG-Si) has the potential to reduce the cost of photovoltaic (PV) technology and improve its environmental profile. In this contribution, we summarize the extensive work made in the research and development of UMG technology for PV, which has led to the demonstration of UMG-Si as a competitive alternative to polysilicon for the production of high-efficiency multicrystalline solar cells and modules. The tailoring of the processing steps along the complete Ferrosolar’s UMG-Si manufacturing value chain is addressed, commencing with the purification stage that results in a moderately compensated material due to the presence of phosphorous and boron. Gallium is added as a dopant at the crystallization stage to obtain a uniform resistivity profile of ∼1 Ω cm along the ingot height. Defect engineering techniques based on phosphorus diffusion gettering are optimized to improve the bulk electronic quality of UMG-Si wafers. Black silicon texturing, compatible with subsequent gettering and surface passivation, is successfully implemented. Industrial-type aluminum back surface field (Al-BSF) and passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) solar cells are fabricated, achieving cell efficiencies in the range of those obtained with conventional polysilicon substrates. TOPCon solar cell processing key steps are also tested to further evaluate the potential of the material in advanced device architectures beyond the PERC. Degradation mechanisms related to light exposure and operation temperature are shown to be insignificant in UMG PERC solar cells when a regeneration step is implemented, and PV modules with several years of outdoor operation demonstrated similar performance to reference ones based on poly-Si. Life cycle analysis (LCA) is carried out to evaluate the environmental impact of UMG-based PV technology when compared to poly-Si-based technology, considering different scenarios for both the manufacturing sites and the PV installations.
Identification of the toxin components of Rhizoctonia solani AG1-IA and its destructive effect on plant cell membrane structure
Authors: Xu Shanshan , Ren Shaofeng , Bao Wenjing , Li Xiaoguang , Zhang Yumei , Yu Buzhu , Li Weiqi , Li Chengyun , Dong Wenhan , Yang Genhua
Published: February 2024

Rice sheath blight is a fungal disease caused mainly by Rhizoctonia solani AG1-IA. Toxins are a major pathogenic factor of R. solani, and some studies have reported their toxin components; however, there is no unified conclusion. In this study, we reported the toxin components and their targets that play a role in R. solani AG1-IA. First, toxins produced by R. solani AG1-IA were examined. Several important phytotoxins, including benzoic acid (BZA), 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furanic aid (HFA), and catechol (CAT), were identified by comparative analysis of secondary metabolites from AG1-IA, AG1-IB, and healthy rice. Follow-up studies have shown that the toxin components of this fungus can rapidly disintegrate the biofilm structure while maintaining the content of host plant membrane components, thereby affecting the organelles, which may also explain the lack of varieties highly resistant to sheath blight.
Big Five personality and mind wandering in athletes: mediating role of trait anxiety
Authors: Li Yueming , Ma Jifei , Xi Yue , Li Jieling
Published: February 2024

Objective

Mind wandering is a common phenomenon among athletes during training and competition, and can lead to poor performance. We attempt to clarify which personality type is more prone to mind wandering and the role of trait anxiety between them.

Methods

Six hundred and eighty-one athletes participated in this cross sectional study. Participants completed the Athlete Mind Wandering Scale, The Chinese adjectives scale of Big-Five factor personality short scale version and Pre-Competition Emotion Scale-Trait questionnaires. The survey data was tested for common method biases, Pearson correlation analysis, and structural equation model by SPSS 25.0 and Mplus 7.0.

Results

Common method biases can be accepted in this study. (1) Athletes' neuroticism was significantly and positively correlated with trait anxiety and mind wandering, respectively, athletes' extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness were significantly and negatively correlated with trait anxiety and mind wandering respectively; the athletes' trait anxiety was significantly and positively correlated with mind wandering; (2) By constructing mediating models, the direct effects of athletes' extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness on mind wandering were insignificant. The mediating effect of athletes' trait anxiety between the five personalities and mind wandering was significant.

Conclusion

Trait anxiety in athletes plays a fully mediating role between the relationship of personality and mind wandering. Athletes' extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness can all have an impact on mind wandering through the mediating role of trait anxiety. Athletes can use the mediating role of trait anxiety to intervene the frequency of mind wandering.
Abstract or concrete? The impact of regional typicality and advertising appeal types on consumption intention toward geographical indication products
Authors: Wang Dan , Xu Yueyan , Li Wanjun , Li Yanjun
Published: February 2024

The essential characteristic of geographical indication products is the association of the products with their region of origin. However, consumers have different associations between products and their region of origin (i.e., different regional typicality) according to different geographical indication products. In this regard, this research aims to explore how to adopt supporting advertising appeal types to improve consumers' attitudes and intentions toward geographical indication products with different regional typicality. To this end, this article proposes and tests the interaction between regional typicality and advertising appeal types on consumption intention toward products and the underlying mechanism and boundary conditions of this effect. Using three studies, this research finds that the adoption of abstract (vs. concrete) appeal is more likely to enhance consumption intention toward products when the geographical indication products have high regional typicality. Moreover, the reverse is true when the geographical indication products have low regional typicality. Furthermore, the results show that processing fluency mediates the interaction effect. In addition, the high (low) regional typicality and abstract (concrete) appeal on consumption intention toward products are more significant in the distant (close) spatial distance condition. In this way, this research provides a new perspective for studying consumer behavior with respect to geographical indication products and has implications for promoting the sales of geographical indication products and enhancing the brand value of geographical indication.
Exploring the associations between resilience and psychological well-being among South Africans during COVID-19
Authors: Sayed Tasleem , Malan Hanelie , Fourie Erika
Published: February 2024

Resilience pertains to an individual’s ability to withstand, adapt, and recuperate from adversity and stress. As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the relationship between resilience and psychological well-being becomes essential. Preliminary observations suggest that those with a higher resilience tend to have better psychological well-being, indicating a possible symbiotic relationship between the two. This study was structured using a cross-sectional survey design. A convenience sampling technique was employed, including 631 respondents in South Africa. Data collection took place between June 11 and July 9, 2022, facilitated through a Google Forms questionnaire. This questionnaire encompassed various instruments, namely a biographical questionnaire, the CD-RISC 10, the WHO Well-being Index, the FACIT-Sp-12, and the PMHS. The findings from the collected data highlighted a strong correlation between resilience and overall well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. This elevation in resilience can be instrumental in augmenting psychological well-being. As such, interventions or programs aimed at enhancing individual and community well-being might benefit from incorporating elements that bolster resilience, especially during periods of global adversity.
Self-compassion moderates the relationship between neuroticism and depression in junior high school students
Authors: Wang Ting , Wu Xicong
Published: February 2024

Neuroticism, an emotion-related personality trait, is often associated with a greater susceptibility to depression. On the other hand, self-compassion involves treating oneself in a peaceful, mindful, and friendly manner, particularly in the face of failure or frustration. The study investigated the relationship between neuroticism and depression in junior high school students, as well as the moderating role of self-compassion. A total of 757 junior high school students participated in the survey, which included the Children’s Depression Inventory, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised, Short Scale for Chinese, and the Chinese version of the Self-Compassion Scale. The results revealed that neuroticism positively predicted depression, while self-compassion had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between neuroticism and depression. Specifically, higher levels of self-compassion were associated with a weaker link between neuroticism and depression. These findings suggest that interventions promoting self-compassion may be beneficial for students exhibiting neurotic tendencies.
Discovery of a novel cytokine signature for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in young Arab children in Qatar
Authors: Nour-Eldine Wared , Manaph Nimshitha Pavathuparambil Abdul , Ltaief Samia M. , Abdel Aati Nazim , Mansoori Monaa Hussain , Al Abdulla Samya , Al-Shammari Abeer R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and communication and the occurrence of stereotyped and repetitive behaviors. Several studies have reported altered cytokine profiles in ASD and hence may serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers of the disorder. This study aims to identify diagnostic biomarkers for ASD in a well-defined study cohort in Qatar.

Methods

We measured the protein levels of 45 cytokines in the plasma samples of age- and gender-matched children (2–4 years) with ASD (n = 100) and controls (n = 60) using a Luminex multiplex assay. We compared the differences in the levels of these cytokines between the two study groups and then fitted the significantly altered cytokines into a logistic regression model to examine their diagnostic potential for ASD.

Results

We found elevated levels of IFN-γ, FGF-2, IL-1RA, and IL-13 and reduced levels of eotaxin, HGF, IL-1 alpha, IL-22, IL-9, MCP-1, SCF, SDF-1 alpha, VEGFA, and IP-10 in the plasma of children with ASD compared to controls. Furthermore, we observed that elevated levels of IFN-γ (odds ratio (OR) = 1.823; 95% (confidence interval) CI = 1.206, 2.755; p = 0.004) and FGF-2 (OR = 2.528; 95% CI = 1.457, 4.385; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with increased odds of ASD, whereas reduced levels of eotaxin (OR = 0.350; 95% CI = 0.160, 0.765; p = 0.008) and HGF (OR = 0.220; 95% CI = 0.070, 0.696; p = 0.010) were significantly associated with lower odds of ASD relative to controls. The combination of these four cytokines revealed an area under the curve (ROC-AUC) of 0.829 (95% CI = 0.767, 0.891; p < 0.001), which demonstrates the diagnostic accuracy of the four-cytokine signature.

Conclusions

Our results identified a panel of cytokines that could discriminate between children with ASD and controls in Qatar. In addition, our findings support the predominance of a Th1 immune phenotype in ASD children and emphasize the need to validate these results in larger populations.
Exploring global and local processes underlying alterations in resting-state functional connectivity and dynamics in schizophrenia
Authors: Metzner Christoph , Dimulescu Cristiana , Kamp Fabian , Fromm Sophie , Uhlhaas Peter J. , Obermayer Klaus
Published: February 2024

Introduction

We examined changes in large-scale functional connectivity and temporal dynamics and their underlying mechanisms in schizophrenia (ScZ) through measurements of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) data and computational modelling.

Methods

The rs-fMRI measurements from patients with chronic ScZ (n=38) and matched healthy controls (n=43), were obtained through the public schizConnect repository. Computational models were constructed based on diffusion-weighted MRI scans and fit to the experimental rs-fMRI data.

Results

We found decreased large-scale functional connectivity across sensory and association areas and for all functional subnetworks for the ScZ group. Additionally global synchrony was reduced in patients while metastability was unaltered. Perturbations of the computational model revealed that decreased global coupling and increased background noise levels both explained the experimentally found deficits better than local changes to the GABAergic or glutamatergic system.

Discussion

The current study suggests that large-scale alterations in ScZ are more likely the result of global rather than local network changes.
The status quo of short videos as a source of health information regarding bowel preparation before colonoscopy
Authors: Liao Foqiang , Huang Yunfeng , Lai Yongkang , Xie Junfeng
Published: February 2024

Background

For high-quality colonoscopies, adequate bowel preparation is a prerequisite, closely associated with the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic safety of colonoscopy. Although popular-science short videos can help people quickly access health information, the overall quality of such short videos as a source of health information regarding bowel preparation before colonoscopy is unclear. Therefore, we intend to conduct a cross-sectional study to investigate the quality of bowel preparation information before colonoscopy through short videos taken on TikTok and Bilibili.

Methods

The Chinese phrases “colonoscopy” and “bowel preparation” were used as keywords to search for and screen the top 100 videos in the comprehensive rankings on TikTok and Bilibili. The Global Quality Score (GQS) and the modified DISCERN score were used to assess the quality of the information provided in these short videos.

Results

A total of 186 short videos were included in this study; 56.5% of them were posted by health professionals, whereas 43.5% of them were posted by nonhealth professionals. The overall quality of these videos was unsatisfactory, with a median DISCERN score of 3 (2–4) and a median GQS of 3 (3–4). The radar maps showed that videos posted by gastroenterologists had higher completeness scores regarding outcomes, management, and risk factors, while nongastroenterologists had higher completeness scores concerning adverse effects, symptoms, and definitions of bowel preparation. Additionally, the median DISCERN score and GQS of the videos posted by gastroenterologists were 3 (3–4) and 3 (3–4), respectively, whereas the quality of the videos posted by patients was the worst, with a median DISCERN score of 2 (1–2) and a median GQS of 2 (1.25–3).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the overall quality of health information-related videos on bowel preparation before colonoscopy posted on specified short video platforms was not satisfactory. Gastroenterologists provide more information on the outcomes, management, and risk factors for bowel preparation before colonoscopy, while nongastroenterologists focus on adverse effects, symptoms, and definitions of bowel preparation.
Stress, anxiety, and depression trajectories during the “first wave” of the COVID-19 pandemic: what drives resilient, adaptive and maladaptive responses in the Portuguese population?
Authors: Fernandes Afonso , Ferreira Sónia , Moreira Pedro , Machado-Sousa Mafalda , Couto Beatriz , Raposo-Lima Catarina , Costa Patrício , Morgado Pedro , Picó-Pérez Maria
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 outbreak and the community mitigation strategies implemented to reduce new SARS-CoV-2 infections can be regarded as powerful stressors with negative consequences on people's mental health. Although it has been shown that negative emotional symptoms subside during lockdown, it is likely the existence of inter-individual differences in stress, anxiety and depression trajectories throughout lockdown.

Objectives

We aimed to cluster participants' according to their trajectories of stress, anxiety and depression scores throughout lockdown, and identify the sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors that may distinguish the subjects included in the different clusters.

Methods

From March 23, 2020, to May 31, 2020, participants completed weekly online questionnaires on sociodemographic information (age, sex, education level, and employment status), psychological functioning (DASS-21, NEO-FFI-20), and clinical data (psychiatric disorders, psychiatric medication, physical disorders). Data regarding smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and time spent daily looking for COVID-19-related information were also collected. Stress, anxiety and depression trajectories were determined using latent class mixed models.

Results

A total of 2040 participants answered the survey at baseline and 603 participants answered all surveys. Three groups (“Resilient,” “Recovered,” and “Maladaptive”) with distinct mental health trajectories were identified. Younger participants, women, participants with lower education level, not working, studying, diagnosed with a mental disorder, taking psychiatric medication, smokers, those who spent more time consuming COVID-19-related information and those with higher neuroticism tended to cluster in the “Maladaptive” group, placing them at higher risk of persistent negative emotional symptoms during compulsory confinement.

Conclusion

Accordingly, a tailored approach to emotional suffering for vulnerable subjects during the COVID-19 and future pandemics must be devised.
Blockchain and agricultural sustainability in South America: a systematic review
Authors: Ordoñez Cristian Camilo , Gonzales Gustavo Ramírez , Corrales Juan Carlos
Published: February 2024

In its fundamental role for food security in South America, sustainable agriculture faces the challenge of addressing the current and future needs of the region while ensuring profitability, environmental health, and social and economic equity. Currently, as support for sustainable agriculture, a significant transformation is observed in the agricultural landscape due to the development of advanced information systems. Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Blockchain have emerged as crucial tools to document and support sustainable agricultural processes. Blockchain technology has proven to be highly beneficial for sustainable agriculture, effectively addressing a significant issue in the agricultural supply chain by providing solutions for transparent and traceable processes. This technology solves the problem by establishing a permanent and open record of all transactions and activities in the supply chain, allowing consumers and stakeholders to track the origin and quality of agricultural products, thereby fostering trust and fair trade. For this reason, this article conducted a review of the current state of blockchain technology in sustainable agriculture, aimed at researchers and farmers in South America. The advantages and disadvantages of blockchain technology were identified, focusing on technologies developed and tested during the design and pilot phases. The PRISMA methodology was used in this review, and documents were searched in Scopus and Web of Science databases. Six hundred and fifty-six articles were identified and selected (2018–2023 period), but only 104 met the eligibility and inclusion criteria. The findings indicate a 30% increase in the adoption of decentralized applications (DAPs) powered by blockchain in the agribusiness sector compared to the previous year. After a thorough analysis, it has been determined that smart contracts, non-fungible tokens for digital assets, and blockchain oracles will provide promising solutions for sustainable agricultural technology in the future.
Przymiotnik słodki w dawnych i współczesnych połączeniach wyrazowych języka polskiego
Authors: Wąsińska Kinga
Published: February 2024

This article aims to confirm that modifications in meanings of words are associated with their collocations. This is based on an analysis performed on the collocations of the adjective ‘słodki’ [sweet]. The language material for the research was collected using historical and contemporary Polish language corpora: Korpus Dawnych Polskich Tekstów Dramatycznych (1772–1939) [The Corpus of Polish Drama Texts], PELCRA search engine for Narodowy Korpus Języka Polskiego[The National Corpus of Polish], and the Monco PL searching tool for websites. Analysing authentic examples of word combinations reveals the relationship between the adjective’s specific meaning and its collocates. The analysis also demonstrates that the collocation of ‘słodki’ has been changing over the eras of language use.
Enhanced Deep Learning Architecture for Rapid and Accurate Tomato Plant Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Islam Shahab Ul , Zaib Shahab , Ferraioli Giampaolo , Pascazio Vito , Schirinzi Gilda , Husnain Ghassan
Published: February 2024

Deep neural networks have demonstrated outstanding performances in agriculture production. Agriculture production is one of the most important sectors because it has a direct impact on the economy and social life of any society. Plant disease identification is a big challenge for agriculture production, for which we need a fast and accurate technique to identify plant disease. With the recent advancement in deep learning, we can develop a robust and accurate system. This research investigated the use of deep learning for accurate and fast tomato plant disease identification. In this research, we have used individual and merged datasets of tomato plants with 10 diseases (including healthy plants). The main aim of this work is to check the accuracy of the existing convolutional neural network models such as Visual Geometry Group, Residual Net, and DenseNet on tomato plant disease detection and then design a custom deep neural network model to give the best accuracy in case of the tomato plant. We have trained and tested our models with datasets containing over 18,000 and 25,000 images with 10 classes. We achieved over 99% accuracy with our custom model. This high accuracy was achieved with less training time and lower computational cost compared to other CNNs. This research demonstrates the potential of deep learning for efficient and accurate tomato plant disease detection, which can benefit farmers and contribute to improved agricultural production. The custom model’s efficient performance makes it promising for practical implementation in real-world agricultural settings.
A Study of Resistome in Mexican Chili Powder as a Public Health Risk Factor
Authors: Mena Navarro Mayra Paola , Espinosa Bernal Merle Ariadna , Alvarado Osuna Claudia , Ramos López Miguel Ángel , Amaro Reyes Aldo , Arvizu Gómez Jackeline Lizzeta , Pacheco Aguilar Juan Ramiro , Saldaña Gutiérrez Carlos , Pérez Moreno Victor , Rodríguez Morales José Alberto , García Gutiérrez María Carlota , Álvarez Hidalgo Erika , Nuñez Ramírez Jorge , Hernández Flores José Luis , Campos Guillén Juan
Published: February 2024

Chili powder is an important condiment around the world. However, according to various reports, the presence of pathogenic microorganisms could present a public health risk factor during its consumption. Therefore, microbiological quality assessment is required to understand key microbial functional traits, such as antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). In this study, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and bioinformatics analysis were used to characterize the comprehensive profiles of the bacterial community and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in 15 chili powder samples from different regions of Mexico. The initial bacterial load showed aerobic mesophilic bacteria (AMB) ranging between 6 × 103 and 7 × 108 CFU/g, sporulated mesophilic bacteria (SMB) from 4.3 × 103 to 2 × 109 CFU/g, and enterobacteria (En) from <100 to 2.3 × 106 CFU/g. The most representative families in the samples were Bacillaceae and Enterobacteriaceae, in which 18 potential pathogen-associated species were detected. In total, the resistome profile in the chili powder contained 68 unique genes, which conferred antibiotic resistance distributed in 13 different classes. Among the main classes of antibiotic resistance genes with a high abundance in almost all the samples were those related to multidrug, tetracycline, beta-lactam, aminoglycoside, and phenicol resistance. Our findings reveal the utility of mNGS in elucidating microbiological quality in chili powder to reduce the public health risks and the spread of potential pathogens with antibiotic resistance mechanisms.
Dietary and Cosmetic Antioxidants
Authors: Dini Irene
Published: February 2024

Spices, herbs, fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and sea organisms contain antioxidant molecules that can scavenge free radicals and reduce their development, quenching the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species [...]
How Distributed Leadership Affects Social and Emotional Competence in Adolescents: The Chain Mediating Role of Student-Centered Instructional Practices and Teacher Self-Efficacy
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Liu Wei , Li Qiong
Published: February 2024

The social and emotional competence of adolescents serves as the cornerstone for their success and future development. This study aims to explore the impact of distributed leadership on the social and emotional competence of adolescents, examining the mediating roles of student-centered teaching practices and teacher self-efficacy. Utilizing survey data from 7246 Chinese adolescents in the SESS project, the study employs a multi-level structural equation modeling approach for data analysis. The results indicate that distributed leadership positively predicts the social and emotional competence of adolescents. Furthermore, distributed leadership exerts indirect effects on adolescents’ social and emotional competence through the independent mediating roles of student-centered teaching practices and teacher self-efficacy, as well as a sequential mediation process involving student-centered teaching practices leading to teacher self-efficacy. This study elucidates how distributed leadership facilitates the development of adolescents’ social and emotional competence, confirming the supportive factors influencing these crucial capacities. Simultaneously, it provides valuable insights into the daily practices of teachers, principals, and administrators.
Spiritual Care through the Lens of Portuguese Palliative Care Professionals: A Qualitative Thematic Analysis
Authors: Matos Juliana , Querido Ana , Laranjeira Carlos
Published: February 2024

Providing spiritual care is paramount to patient-centered care. Despite the growing body of data and its recognized importance in palliative care, spiritual care continues to be the least advanced and most overlooked aspect. This study aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of spiritual care from the perspective of PC professionals and identify their strategies to address spiritual care issues. Data were collected through semi-structured personal interviews and managed using WebQDA software (Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal). All data were analyzed using thematic content analysis, as recommended by Clark and Braun. The study included 15 palliative care professionals with a mean age of 38.51 [SD = 5.71] years. Most participants identified as lacking specific training in spiritual care. Thematic analysis spawned three main themes: (1) spiritual care as key to palliative care, (2) floating between “shadows” and “light” in providing spiritual care, and (3) strategies for competent and spiritual-centered care. Spiritual care was considered challenging by its very nature and given the individual, relational, and organizational constraints lived by professionals working in palliative care. With support from healthcare institutions, spiritual care can and should become a defining feature of the type, nature, and quality of palliative care provision. Care providers should be sensitive to spiritual needs and highly skilled and capable of an in-the-moment approach to respond to these needs. Further research on educating and training in spiritual care competence is a priority.
How the Management of Biochemical Recurrence in Prostate Cancer Will Be Modified by the Concept of Anticipation and Incrementation of Therapy
Authors: Sciarra Alessandro , Santarelli Valerio , Salciccia Stefano , Moriconi Martina , Basile Greta , Santodirocco Loreonzo , Carino Dalila , Frisenda Marco , Di Pierro Giovanni , Del Giudice Francesco , Gentilucci Alessandro , Bevilacqua Giulio
Published: February 2024

Biochemical recurrence (BCR) after primary treatments for prostate cancer (PC) is an extremely heterogeneous phase and at least a stratification into low- and high-risk cases for early progression in metastatic disease is necessary. At present, PSA-DT represents the best parameter to define low- and high-risk BCR PC, but real precision medicine is strongly suggested to define tailored management for patients with BCR. Before defining management, it is necessary to exclude the presence of low-volume metastasis associated with PSA progression using new-generation imaging, preferably with PSMA PET/CT. Low-risk BCR cases should be actively observed without early systemic therapies. Early treatment of low-risk BCR with continuous androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) can produce disadvantages such as the development of castration resistance before the appearance of metastases (non-metastatic castration-resistant PC). Patients with high-risk BCR benefit from early systemic therapy. Even with overall survival (OS) as the primary treatment endpoint, metastasis-free survival (MFS) should be used as a surrogate endpoint in clinical trials, especially in long survival stages of the disease. The EMBARK study has greatly influenced the management of high-risk BCR, by introducing the concept of anticipation and intensification through the use of androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSIs) and ADT combination therapy. In high-risk (PSA-DT ≤ 9 months) BCR cases, the combination of enzalutamide with leuprolide significantly improves MFS when compared to leuprolide alone, maintaining an unchanged quality of life in the asymptomatic phase of the disease. The possibility of using ARSIs alone in this early disease setting is suggested by the EMBARK study (arm with enzalutamide alone) with less evidence than with the intensification of the combination therapy. Continued use versus discontinuation of enzalutamide plus leuprolide intensified therapy upon reaching undetectable PSA levels needs to be better defined with further analysis. Real-world analysis must verify the significant results obtained in the context of a phase 3 study.
Focal Minimally Invasive Treatment in Localized Prostate Cancer: Comprehensive Review of Different Possible Strategies
Authors: Faiella Eliodoro , Santucci Domiziana , D’Amone Giulia , Cirimele Vincenzo , Vertulli Daniele , Bruno Amalia , Beomonte Zobel Bruno , Grasso Rosario Francesco
Published: February 2024

Background: Focal therapy is a promising, minimally invasive method for the treatment of patients with localized prostate cancer. According to the existing literature, there is growing evidence for positive functional outcomes and oncological effectiveness. The aim of this review is to evaluate the technical efficacy of three minimally invasive techniques (cryoablation, electroporation, and microwave ablation) and their impact on quality of life in patients with prostate cancer. Methods: Studies between January 2020 and July 2023 were selected using PubMed, Embase, and The Cochrane Library and analyzed following PRISMA guidelines; they have not been registered. Results: Twenty-three studies investigating three different sources of energy to deliver focal therapy were found. Thirteen studies evaluated the performance of the cryoablation therapy, seven studies of the irreversible electroporation, and three studies of microwave ablation option. The majority of studies were retrospective cohort studies. Cryoablation showed excellent oncological outcomes for low-grade prostate cancer, whether performed on the lesion, on the hemigland, or on the entire gland, with the best results obtained for patients with intermediate risk. Irreversible electroporation showed promising oncological outcomes with no significant changes in functional outcomes. Microwave ablation showed great early functional outcomes. Conclusions: The oncological effectiveness of minimally invasive treatment in comparison to standard of care is still under investigation, despite encouraging results in terms of functional outcomes improvement and adverse events reduction. More comprehensive research is needed to fully understand the function of minimally invasive treatment in patients with localized PCa.
Prognostic Factors for Mortality in Hepatocellular Carcinoma at Diagnosis: Development of a Predictive Model Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Martínez-Blanco Pablo , Suárez Miguel , Gil-Rojas Sergio , Torres Ana María , Martínez-García Natalia , Blasco Pilar , Torralba Miguel , Mateo Jorge
Published: February 2024

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 75% of primary liver tumors. Controlling risk factors associated with its development and implementing screenings in risk populations does not seem sufficient to improve the prognosis of these patients at diagnosis. The development of a predictive prognostic model for mortality at the diagnosis of HCC is proposed. Methods: In this retrospective multicenter study, the analysis of data from 191 HCC patients was conducted using machine learning (ML) techniques to analyze the prognostic factors of mortality that are significant at the time of diagnosis. Clinical and analytical data of interest in patients with HCC were gathered. Results: Meeting Milan criteria, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) classification and albumin levels were the variables with the greatest impact on the prognosis of HCC patients. The ML algorithm that achieved the best results was random forest (RF). Conclusions: The development of a predictive prognostic model at the diagnosis is a valuable tool for patients with HCC and for application in clinical practice. RF is useful and reliable in the analysis of prognostic factors in the diagnosis of HCC. The search for new prognostic factors is still necessary in patients with HCC.