bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation and on-line monitoring using optical fiber Bragg grating sensors of temperature history during laser-assisted automated fiber placement
Authors: Zhao Dacheng , Liu Weiping , Chen Jiping , Zhu Songhao , Yang Yang , Yue Guangquan
Published: May 2024

Automated fiber placement (AFP) in situ consolidation (ISC) of thermoplastic composite possess the potential to reduce manufacturing costs and improve manufacturing efficiency. The properties of composite manufactured by the ISC are affected by several mechanisms including polymer degradation, crystallization, intimate contact, polymer healing and void dynamics. All these mechanisms are directly affected by the temperature history. Consequently, the control and accurate measurement of temperature history during ISC are particularly important for improving the properties of composite. In this study, a simplified three-dimensional transient heat transfer model was established. The effect of tool temperature and placement speed on the temperature history and peak temperature were predicted. Simultaneously, an online temperature monitoring system was built and the optical Fiber Bragg Grating sensors (FBGS) was used to measure the temperature history. The results indicated that the predicted results of the model were consistent with the measured results, the error was below 8%. In addition, the temperature history of layers was significantly affected by the tool temperature and placement speed. The temperature of the layers decreased to near the tool temperature after cooling, and a higher tool temperature increasing its peak temperature because of the reduce of the cooling rate. On the contrary, an increase in placement speed will reduce the peak temperature of the layers.
A comprehensive approach to enhance wood cutting productivity: Integration of spherical fuzzy DEMATEL and artificial neural networks
Authors: Shukla Himanshu Mahesh , Gupta Mahendra M.
Published: May 2024

Productivity plays a pivotal role in profitability and success of business. In this study, the wood cutting activity in Indian sawmills is selected. This study replicates the novel approach by integrating spherical fuzzy DEMATEL (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) and artificial neural networks (ANN) to improve the wood cutting productivity in Indian sawmills. The measure of betterness is selected as net productivity rate (NPR), a time-based labor productivity measure. The methodology unfolds in two crucial steps. First, SF-DEMATEL is employed to unearth influential factors affecting wood cutting, delving into their interrelationships through fuzzy logic. This process provides relationships between key determinants and their interconnected dynamics. Secondly, an ANN, a machine learning algorithm, is harnessed to predict wood cutting performance based on these identified factors. The ANN is trained using historical or simulation data, paving the way for predictions under diverse scenarios. The novelty of this approach lies in its holistic precision. The results showcase that lifting index and log weight emerge as primary influencers on productivity, with NPR, occupational risk index, and perceived exertion ranking lower. In the grand tapestry of factors, the study unveils universal driving forces, such as the weight of the log and lifting index. The ANN model, attaining a remarkable RMSE = 0.0478 and R2 = 0.9783 for training set and for training data and RMSE = 0.0487 and R2 = 0.9727 for testing data. This contributes to the comprehensive ranking comparison of factors derived from both Fuzzy DEMATEL and ANN. In summation, the fusion of Fuzzy DEMATEL and ANN unravels the intricacies of wood cutting dynamics. By identifying key factors and predicting performance, this approach provides a transformative gateway to enhance wood cutting quality and efficiency, thereby elevating the overall productivity of the woodworking industry.
Strengthening Primary Care Workforce Capacity in Dementia Diagnosis and Care: A Qualitative Study of Project Alzheimer’s Disease–ECHO
Authors: Sideman Alissa B. , Hernandez de Jesus Alma , Alagappan Cecilia , Ma Melissa , Koenig Christopher J. , Alving Loren I. , Segal-Gidan Freddi , Goldberger Rachel , Sohmer Dana , Rosen Howie
Published: May 2024

Primary care practitioners (PCPs) are the first point of contact for most patients with suspected dementia and have identified a need for more training and support around dementia diagnosis and care. This qualitative study examined the Alzheimer’s Disease–Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (AD-ECHO) program. AD-ECHO was designed to strengthen PCP capacity in dementia through bimonthly virtual meetings with a team of dementia experts. We conducted 24 hr of direct observations at AD-ECHO sessions and interviewed 14 participants about their experiences participating. Using thematic analysis, we found that participants valued the supportive learning environment and resources; knowledge gained empowered them to take more action around dementia; they identified ways of disseminating knowledge gained into their practice settings, and many desired ongoing AD-ECHO engagement. However, most identified time as a barrier to participation. AD-ECHO has the potential to strengthen the primary care workforce’s knowledge and confidence around dementia care.
Experimental modal analysis of the seated human body during whole-body vibration: Effect of vibration direction and magnitude
Authors: Sun Chao , Qiu Yi , Liu Chi , Zheng Xu , Wu Jun , Zhang Xiaolu
Published: May 2024

In this paper, modal properties of the seated human body were identified from measured transmissibilities to the head, chest, lumbar spine L3, pelvis, hips and thighs with single-axis translational vibration; how they were affected by vibration direction and magnitude was quantitatively compared for the first time. To this end, eight subjects were exposed to fore-aft, lateral and vertical single-axis vibrations with three magnitudes at 0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 m/s2 r.m.s., respectively. Three and five vibration modes were identified with fore-aft vibration and with vertical vibration in the sagittal plane, respectively, while three modes identified with lateral vibration were in the coronal plane. As the vibration magnitude increased from 0.4 to 1.2 m/s2 r.m.s., the modal frequencies of the modes at 1.2, 2.2, 2.9 and 6.2 Hz, which contained the pitch, lateral movements, fore-aft movements and vertical movements of the upper body, respectively, were reduced to 1.0, 1.8, 2.3 and 5.8 Hz significantly, and the damping ratios of the modes identified at 0.8, 5.2 and 10.9 Hz were changed. High similarity was observed between the modal shapes identified with different vibration magnitudes.
The evaluation of the effect of rib set-outs on the dimensional and stretch properties of double weft knitted cotton/flax fabrics
Authors: Bukhonka Nadiia , Kyzymchuk Olena
Published: May 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of rib set-out repeat on the structural characteristics and mechanical properties of double-knitted fabrics after dry relaxation and four washing cycles. The focus is on the behavior of the fabrics in terms of dimensional stability and stretch properties. Half Milano rib and nine variants of double weft knitted fabrics differed by the number of inactive needles in the rib set-out repeat were produced from a 25 × 2tex × 2 cotton/flax yarn on a 10-gauge flat-bed knitting machine. It was found that the rib set-out repeat affects dimensional changes in both directions: an increase in the number of inactive needles increases shrinkage. The rib set-out repeat also significantly influences the structural characteristics. As the number of inactive needles in the rib set-out repeat increases, the double-knitted fabric becomes denser, thicker, and heavier. The analysis of stretchability indicates that the repeat didn`t affect full lengthwise deformation but affected the full widthwise deformation. Fabrics with an identical percentage of inactive needles (50%) exhibit minimal differences in properties. The study results are particularly significant for a manufacturer to enhance the quality of knitted fabrics by understanding their dimensional stability and stretch performance.
Impact of emphysema on mortality in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yanhong , Zou Ruyi , Yao Yu , Tang Cheng , Luo Jing , Lin Minjie
Published: May 2024

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive fibrosing interstitial lung disease. The effects of emphysema on mortality in IPF remains unclear.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Studies were included if they compared mortality in IPF patients with and without emphysema. In included studies, the diagnosis with IPF or IPF combined emphysema was according to the ATS and ERS statements. From eligible studies, we extracted HR and 95% CI, if HRs were not reported, they were extracted based on Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

A total of 2605 patients across 15 cohort studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Emphysema was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality with a pooled HR 1.37 (95% CI, 1.04-1.80) and I 2 = 64%. However, the level of evidence was ‘very low’ according to GRADE criteria. Subgroup analysis according to IPF with emphysema patients revealed that DLCO%pre<40 (HR 1.75 (95% CI, 1.02-3.01) and I 2 = 74%), FVC%pre<80 (HR 1.81 (95% CI, 1.24-2.64) and I 2 = 61%), location on North America and Europe (HR 2.00 (95% CI, 1.09-3.67) and I 2 = 76%), and Smoking Pack-years<40 (HR 1.38 (95% CI, 1.02-1.87) and I 2 = 15%) were risk factors for all-cause mortality. Sensitivity analysis revealed that one study had a disproportional effect on the pooled rate.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested emphysema increased the risk of all-cause mortality in patients with IPF. This conclusion should be re-evaluated by a large-scale randomized controlled trial.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO: CRD42022378699; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ .
Inhibitory effect of microRNA-21 on pathways and mechanisms involved in cardiac fibrosis development
Authors: Khalaji Amirreza , Mehrtabar Saba , Jabraeilipour Armin , Doustar Nadia , Rahmani Youshanlouei Hamed , Tahavvori Amir , Fattahi Payam , Alavi Seyed Mohammad Amin , Taha Seyed Reza , Fazlollahpour-Naghibi Andarz , Shariat Zadeh Mahdieh
Published: May 2024

Cardiac fibrosis is a pivotal cardiovascular disease (CVD) process and represents a notable health concern worldwide. While the complex mechanisms underlying CVD have been widely investigated, recent research has highlighted microRNA-21’s (miR-21) role in cardiac fibrosis pathogenesis. In this narrative review, we explore the molecular interactions, focusing on the role of miR-21 in contributing to cardiac fibrosis. Various signaling pathways, such as the RAAS, TGF-β, IL-6, IL-1, ERK, PI3K-Akt, and PTEN pathways, besides dysregulation in fibroblast activity, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and tissue inhibitors of MMPs cause cardiac fibrosis. Besides, miR-21 in growth factor secretion, apoptosis, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition play crucial roles. miR-21 capacity regulatory function presents promising insights for cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, this review discusses numerous approaches to control miR-21 expression, including antisense oligonucleotides, anti-miR-21 compounds, and Notch signaling modulation, all novel methods of cardiac fibrosis inhibition. In summary, this narrative review aims to assess the molecular mechanisms of cardiac fibrosis and its essential miR-21 function.
Differential blood-based biomarkers of subcortical and deep brain small vessel disease
Authors: Hervella Pablo , Alonso-Alonso Maria Luz , Sampedro-Viana Ana , Rodríguez-Yáñez Manuel , López-Dequidt Iria , Pumar José M. , Ouro Alberto , Romaus-Sanjurjo Daniel , Campos Francisco , Sobrino Tomás , Castillo José , Leira Yago , Iglesias-Rey Ramón
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cerebral small vessel disease is the most common cause of lacunar strokes (LS). Understanding LS pathogenesis is vital for predicting disease severity, prognosis, and developing therapies.

Objectives:

To research molecular profiles that differentiate LS in deep brain structures from those in subcortical white matter.

Design:

Prospective case–control study involving 120 patients with imaging-confirmed LS and a 120 control group.

Methods:

We examined the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers [amyloid beta (Aβ1–40, Aβ1–42)], serum inflammatory marker (interleukin-6, IL-6), and endothelial dysfunction markers [soluble tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis, and pentraxin-3 (sTWEAK, PTX3)] with respect to LS occurring in deep brain structures and subcortical white matter. In addition, we investigated links between LS, leukoaraiosis presence (white matter hyperintensities, WMHs), and functional outcomes at 3 months. Poor outcome was defined as a modified Rankin scale >2 at 3 months.

Results:

Significant differences were observed in levels of IL-6, PTX3, and sTWEAK between patients with deep lacunar infarcts and those with recent small subcortical infarcts (20.8 versus 15.6 pg/mL, p < 0.001; 7221.3 versus 4624.4 pg/mL, p < 0.0001; 2528.5 versus 1660.5 pg/mL, p = 0.001). Patients with poor outcomes at 3 months displayed notably higher concentrations of these biomarkers compared to those with good outcomes. By contrast, Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42 were significantly lower in patients with deep LS ( p < 0.0001). Aβ1–42 levels were significantly higher in patients with LS in subcortical white matter who had poor outcomes. WMH severity only showed a significant association with deep LS and correlated with sTWEAK ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

The pathophysiological mechanisms of lacunar infarcts in deep brain structures seem different from those in the subcortical white matter. As a result, specific therapeutic and preventive strategies should be explored.
PARP inhibitors in prostate cancers, is it time for combinations?
Authors: Teyssonneau Diego , Dariane Charles , Barret Eric , Beauval Jean-Baptiste , Brureau Laurent , Fiard Gaëlle , Fromont Gaëlle , Créhange Gilles , Gauthé Mathieu , Ruffion Alain , Renard-Penna Raphaële , Mathieu Romain , Sargos Paul , Rouprêt Morgan , Ploussard Guillaume , Roubaud Guilhem
Published: May 2024

Despite several improvements in outcomes, metastatic prostate cancer remains deadly. Alterations in the homologous recombination repair (HRR) pathway are associated with more aggressive disease. Olaparib and rucaparib, two poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, have received approval from the authorities of several countries for their anti-tumoral effects in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancers harboring HRR gene alterations, in particular BRCA2. More recently, it has been hypothesized that new hormonal therapies (NHTs) and PARP inhibitors (PARPi) could have synergistic actions and act independently of HRR deficiency. This review proposes to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of PARPi used as monotherapy or in combination with NHTs and whether there is a need for molecular selection.
The Effects and Learners’ Perceptions of Cluster Analysis-Based Peer Assessment for Chinese Calligraphy Classes
Authors: Huang Xiaodong , Qiao Chengche
Published: May 2024

Calligraphy is the treasure of traditional Chinese culture and it is ubiquitous in China. Because of the unique aesthetic characteristics of calligraphy, the difficulty of calligraphy teaching lies in the assessment of calligraphy works. The major problems concerning calligraphy assessment are the low time efficiency of calligraphy assessment and low engagement of students in the assessing process. As an active learning method, peer assessment (PA) has been widely applied to education. This research aims to explore the application of PA to the calligraphy class. With reasonable training, elementary school students can act rationally as an assessing group. On the basis of students’ scores, this study further takes the most reasonable scores based on clustering analysis as the final score. Through the comparative analysis of the students’ scores and the teachers’ scores, it shows that the students’ scores of calligraphy writing can obtain results that are close to the teachers’ scores. The significance of the study lies in enhancing the time-efficiency of calligraphy assessment and maintaining the learners’ high levels of engagement in the assessing process. The results show that the use of PA in the assessment of calligraphy writing is an effective and accurate method of calligraphy assessment, which contributes to students’ command of the key points of calligraphy marking and plays an integral role in guiding students’ future calligraphy practice.
Experiences of Graduate Students of the First Cohort on Cost-Sharing Policies in Saudi Public Universities: Lessons Learned and Recommendations for Policy and Practice
Authors: Alshamy Alsaeed , Barry Abdourahmane
Published: May 2024

The study aimed at investigating the experiences of graduate students who experience, for the first-time, cost-sharing policies in Saudi public universities. The study used the explanatory sequential mixed methods approach, involving a two-phase data collection. First, quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire administered to graduate students of education from 24 out of the 29 public universities, where 384 participants responded. Then, qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with 28 participants who voluntarily signed up for a follow-up interview. The main findings show that 66.4% of participants support the introduction of cost-sharing in public universities. However, there are no student financial aid mechanisms to guarantee equal opportunity for all candidates. Even though 90.4% of participants pay their due shares on time, students who faced financial hardships were not allowed to register for classes until they paid. Further, except for the contract signed during the admission process, there was no informative and accessible cost-sharing policy document to help potential candidates make the right decision before joining a program. Moreover, the cost-sharing programs are not flexible for working students. Participants’ perceptions on cost-sharing and financial aid mechanisms do not differ based on gender and education level but do strongly significantly differ based on cost-sharing policy support. Based on these findings, the researchers suggest five recommendations for policy and practice for the cost-sharing policy to be effective and equitable for all potential candidates.
Do Tragic Events Make Investors More Pro-social? Evidence from Japan
Authors: Murashima Miho
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the impact of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake on investor responses to corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities in Japan. Employing Propensity Score Matching and Difference-in-Differences analyses, we analyse investor reactions to both positive and negative CSR news pre- and post-earthquake. Our results indicate a significant increase in share prices for firms that reported positive CSR news post-earthquake, thereby highlighting a heightened investor value on CSR during times of crisis. In contrast, negative CSR news showed a more pronounced negative effect in longer term windows. Additionally, industries directly affected by the earthquake experienced a substantial shift in investor sentiment towards negative CSR news. These findings enhance the understanding CSR’s tole in investor behaviour during crises and offer insights into effective corporate strategies in disaster-prone contexts, particularly in Japan’s unique cultural and economic landscape.
Contracts, Wage Differentials and Involuntary Unemployment
Authors: Ray Debraj
Published: May 2024

I study a simple model of labour markets with imperfect monitoring and efficiency wages that provide work incentives. Involuntary unemployment is an outcome, but it is just one particular instance of many inter-firm wage differentials that pervade the equilibrium. The goal of this paper is to study the relationship between firm size, work standards, wages paid, contractual utility for workers, and capital intensity in production. Under certain conditions: (a) larger firms pay higher wages and demand higher individual effort levels; (b) despite these opposing effects, larger firms offer a higher net contractual utility and (c) larger firms are more capital intensive, even when production functions are homothetic in capital and labour.

JEL Classifications: D33, J31, J41
Predictors of Prolonged Hospital Stay Among Pediatric Patients With Severe Pneumonia, Southwest Ethiopia: Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Fenta Kebede Belete , Dagnaw Genie Yalemtsehay , Biyazin Tesfa Tsegaw , Yetwale Hiwot Aynalem , Kindie Mulu Kassa , Adugnaw Emebet , Mihretu Esmelalem , Sewmehone Endalew Enatfenta
Published: May 2024

Background

Prolonged hospital stay could lead to increased hospital-acquired infections, and unnecessary utilization of hospital beds, medications, and other resources. However, there is limited evidence regarding the length of hospital stay (LOS) and predictors of prolonged hospital stay in pediatric patients with severe pneumonia. Therefore, this study was conducted to fill the information gap on length of stay and predictors of prolonged hospital stay among pediatric patients with severe pneumonia, in southwest Ethiopia.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the LOS and predictors of prolonged hospital stay among pediatric patients with severe pneumonia, Southwest Ethiopia/2022.

Methods and Materials

A Prospective follow-up study was conducted on pediatric patients with severe pneumonia. Data were entered into Epi-data manager Version 4.4.2.1, for coding, editing, and cleaning, then exported to Stata Version 16 for analysis. Bivariate logistic regression analysis at a significance level of 0.25 and multivariate logistic regression analyses with a significance level of 0.05 were conducted to determine the factors associated with prolonged hospital stay among pediatric patients.

Results

In this study, the median LOS was 5 days and, approximately 38.22% (95% CI [33.66-43.01]) of patients with severe pneumonia had prolonged hospital stays. The presence of underlying comorbidity (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.64, 95% CI [1.65-4.26]), health insurance status (AOR: 2.22, 95% CI [1.4-3.55]), and incomplete vaccination status (AOR: 4.20, 95% CI [1.04-16.61]) were independent predictors of prolonged hospital stay among pediatric patients with severe pneumonia.

Conclusion

In this study, more than one-third of pediatric patients with severe pneumonia had a length of stay of more than 5 days, and incomplete vaccination status, insurance status, and underlying comorbidities were independent predictors of prolonged hospital stay. Therefore, healthcare providers, parents, and other stakeholders should work to improve the pneumococcal vaccination rate, timely initiation of advanced diagnosis, and patient management of comorbid diseases to reduce hospital stays for pediatric patients with severe pneumonia.
Job seekers’ pay expectations: The effect of voluntary disclosure in online résumés
Authors: Volkova Natalia V , Polyakova Evgeniya Y , Zavyalova Elena K
Published: May 2024

Pay expectations are not fully explained, especially when they are presented in online résumés. There is also limited research that has investigated when job seekers are more likely to open up about pay expectations in résumés. However, this knowledge may help recruiters and company leaders to make prudent decisions about communication strategy with candidates, especially those belonging to stigmatized groups. The purpose of this study is to explore pay expectation disclosure through individual determinants available in online résumés. Drawn from both signaling perspectives and the selection, optimization, and compensation (SOC) theory, we examine human capital-related traits, demographics, and signals related to career development and analyze their relevance when job seekers indicate or hide pay expectations. The study explored the anonymous online résumés of 26,594 job-seeking applicants, using regression analysis with the Heckman correction to overcome the sample selection bias of pay indication. The analysis revealed a tendency among applicants, who were less educated and less experienced but with a higher number of job-related skills, to signal pay expectations compared to more educated and more experienced job seekers. Women and more mature job seekers were also inclined to provide disclosed-pay résumés. Our findings showed that the impact of the individual determinants on applicants’ pay expectations coincided with the impact of the same determinants on real market pay found in other studies. These findings provide insights into the signaling role of pay expectation disclosure in online résumés to support employers in building effective communication with job seekers.
Predicting evolution acceptance among religious students using the predictive factors of evolution acceptance and reconciliation (pFEAR) instrument
Authors: Ferguson Daniel G. , Larsen Ross A. , Bailey Elizabeth G. , Jensen Jamie L.
Published: May 2024

Evolution is one of the controversial topics in biology primarily because of the perceived conflict between religion and evolution. Religiosity is one of the biggest predictors of evolution acceptance, i.e., the more religious an individual, the less accepting they are of evolution. Most students in the United States are religious, so how evolution is taught in the classroom is essential for a more inclusive experience. However, educators do not have a way to measure what factors influence students' evolution acceptance. We developed a survey instrument with validity evidence called the "predictive Factors of Evolution Acceptance and Reconciliation" (pFEAR). Using this measure, with data from eight religiously affiliated institutions in the United States, educators can understand how their religious and scientific worldview factors influence their students' views on evolution acceptance. Our study showed that religious influence was the most statistically significant predictor of evolution acceptance among religious students by a factor of 2, when compared to students scientific worldviews and the perceived conflict between science and religion. It also showed that perceived conflict between science and religion and being influenced by science were significant positive predictors of evolution acceptance. Further, this study identifies ways educators can use the pFEAR in the classroom to better understand their student's views and better modify how they approach teaching evolution in their classroom.
Spatio-temporal expression patterns of glycine-rich beta proteins and cysteine-rich beta proteins in setae development of Gekko japonicus
Authors: Xia Longjie , Li Chao , Chen Shengnan , Lyu Linna , Xie Wenli , Yan Jie , Zhou Kaiya , Li Peng
Published: May 2024

Background

Setae on the pad lamellae of the Japanese gecko Gekko japonicus (Schlegel, 1836), a vital epidermal derivative, are primarily composed of cornified beta-proteins (CBPs) and play a pivotal role in adhesion and climbing. The amino acid composition of CBPs might be a determining factor influencing their functional properties. However, the molecular mechanisms governed by CBP genes with diverse amino acid compositions in setae development remain unexplored.

Results

Based on RNA-seq analyses, this study confirmed that all G. japonicus CBPs (GjCBPs) are involved in setae formation. Cysteine-rich CBPs encoding genes (ge-cprp-17 to ge-cprp-26) and glycine-rich CBPs encoding genes (ge-gprp-17 to ge-gprp-22) were haphazardly selected, with quantitative real-time PCR revealing their expression patterns in embryonic pad lamellae and dorsal epidermis. It is inferred that glycine-rich CBPs are integral to the formation of both dorsal scales and lamellar setae, cysteine-rich CBPs are primarily associated with setae development. Additionally, fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed spatiotemporal differences in the expression of a glycine-rich CBP encoding gene (ge-gprp-19) and a cysteine-rich CBP encoding gene (ge-cprp-17) during dorsal scales and/or lamellar development.

Conclusions

All 66 CBPs are involved in the formation of setae. Glycine-rich CBPs hold a significant role in the development of dorsal scales and lamellar setae, whereas most cysteine-rich CBPs appear to be essential components of G. japonicus setae. Even GjCBPs with similar amino acid compositions may play diverse functions. The clear spatio-temporal expression differences between the glycine-rich and cysteine-rich CBP encoding genes during epidermal scale and/or setae formation were observed. Embryonic developmental stages 39 to 42 emerged as crucial phases for setae development. These findings lay the groundwork for deeper investigation into the function of GjCBPs in the development of G. japonicus setae.
HiFi long-read amplicon sequencing for full-spectrum variants of human mtDNA
Authors: Lin Yan , Wang Jiayin , Xu Ran , Xu Zhe , Wang Yifan , Pan Shirang , Zhang Yan , Tao Qing , Zhao Yuying , Yan Chuanzhu , Cao Zhenhua , Ji Kunqian
Published: May 2024

Background

Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) can be caused by single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and structural variants (SVs) in the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA). Presently, identifying deletions in small to medium-sized fragments and accurately detecting low-percentage variants remains challenging due to the limitations of next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Methods

In this study, we integrated targeted long-range polymerase chain reaction (LR-PCR) and PacBio HiFi sequencing to analyze 34 participants, including 28 patients and 6 controls. Of these, 17 samples were subjected to both targeted LR-PCR and NGS to compare the mtDNA variant detection efficacy.

Results

Among the 28 patients tested by long-read sequencing (LRS), 2 patients were found positive for the m.3243 A > G hotspot variant, and 20 patients exhibited single or multiple deletion variants with a proportion exceeding 4%. Comparison between the results of LRS and NGS revealed that both methods exhibited similar efficacy in detecting SNVs exceeding 5%. However, LRS outperformed NGS in detecting SNVs with a ratio below 5%. As for SVs, LRS identified single or multiple deletions in 13 out of 17 cases, whereas NGS only detected single deletions in 8 cases. Furthermore, deletions identified by LRS were validated by Sanger sequencing and quantified in single muscle fibers using real-time PCR. Notably, LRS also effectively and accurately identified secondary mtDNA deletions in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs).

Conclusions

LRS outperforms NGS in detecting various types of SNVs and SVs in mtDNA, including those with low frequencies. Our research is a significant advancement in medical comprehension and will provide profound insights into genetics.
Enhancing winter wheat prediction with genomics, phenomics and environmental data
Authors: Montesinos-López Osval A. , Herr Andrew W. , Crossa José , Montesinos-López Abelardo , Carter Arron H.
Published: May 2024

In the realm of multi-environment prediction, when the goal is to predict a complete environment using the others as a training set, the efficiency of genomic selection (GS) falls short of expectations. Genotype by environment interaction poses a challenge in achieving high prediction accuracies. Consequently, current efforts are focused on enhancing efficiency by integrating various types of inputs, such as phenomics data, environmental information, and other omics data. In this study, we sought to evaluate the impact of incorporating environmental information into the modeling process, in addition to genomic and phenomics information. Our evaluation encompassed five data sets of soft white winter wheat, and the results revealed a significant improvement in prediction accuracy, as measured by the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE), through the integration of environmental information. Notably, there was an average gain in prediction accuracy of 49.19% in terms of NRMSE across the data sets. Moreover, the observed prediction accuracy ranged from 5.68% (data set 3) to 60.36% (data set 4), underscoring the substantial effect of integrating environmental information. By including genomic, phenomic, and environmental data in prediction models, plant breeding programs can improve selection efficiency across locations.
Appropriate mowing can promote the growth of Anabasis aphylla through the auxin metabolism pathway
Authors: Jiang Ping , Han Peng , He Mengyao , Shui Guangling , Guo Chunping , Shah Sulaiman , Wang Zixuan , Wu Haokai , Li Jian , Pan Zhenyuan
Published: May 2024

Anabasis aphylla(A. aphylla), a species of theAmaranthaceaefamily, is widely distributed in northwestern China and has high pharmacological value and ecological functions. However, the growth characteristics are poorly understood, impeding its industrial development for biopesticide development. Here, we explored the regenerative capacity ofA. aphylla. To this end, different lengths of the secondary branches of perennial branches were mowed at the end of March before sprouting. The four treatments were no mowing (M0) and mowing 1/3, 2/3, and the entire length of the secondary branches of perennial branches (M1–M3, respectively). Next, to evaluate the compensatory growth after mowing, new assimilate branches’ related traits were recorded every 30 days, and the final biomass was recorded. The mowed plants showed a greater growth rate of assimilation branches than un-mowed plants. Additionally, with the increasing mowing degree, the growth rate and the final biomass of assimilation branches showed a decreasing trend, with the greatest growth rate and final biomass in response to M1. To evaluate the mechanism of the compensatory growth after mowing, a combination of dynamic (0, 1, 5, and 8 days after mowing) plant hormone-targeted metabolomics and transcriptomics was performed for the M0 and M1 treatment. Overall, 26 plant hormone metabolites were detected, 6 of which significantly increased after mowing compared with control: Indole-3-acetyl-L-valine methyl ester, Indole-3-carboxylic acid, Indole-3-carboxaldehyde, Gibberellin A24, Gibberellin A4, and cis (+)-12-oxo-phytodienoic acid. Additionally, 2,402 differentially expressed genes were detected between the mowed plants and controls. By combining clustering analysis based on expression trends after mowing and gene ontology analysis of each cluster, 18 genes related to auxin metabolism were identified, 6 of which were significantly related to auxin synthesis. Our findings suggest that appropriate mowing can promoteA. aphyllagrowth, regulated by the auxin metabolic pathway, and lays the foundation for the development of the industrial value ofA. aphylla.
Women’s experiences of disrespect and abuse in Swiss facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative analysis of an open-ended question in the IMAgiNE EURO study
Authors: Abderhalden-Zellweger Alessia , de Labrusse Claire , Gemperle Michael , Grylka-Baeschlin Susanne , Pfund Anouck , Mueller Antonia N. , Mariani Ilaria , Pessa Valente Emanuelle , Lazzerini Marzia
Published: May 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the provision of maternal care. The IMAgiNE EURO study investigates the Quality of Maternal and Newborn Care during the pandemic in over 20 countries, including Switzerland.

Aim

This study aims to understand women’s experiences of disrespect and abuse in Swiss health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data were collected via an anonymous online survey on REDCap®. Women who gave birth between March 2020 and March 2022 and answered an open-ended question in the IMAgiNE EURO questionnaire were included in the study. A qualitative thematic analysis of the women’s comments was conducted using the International Confederation of Midwives’ RESPECT toolkit as a framework for analysis.

Findings

The data source for this study consisted of 199 comments provided by women in response to the open-ended question in the IMAgiNE EURO questionnaire. Analysis of these comments revealed clear patterns of disrespect and abuse in health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. These patterns include non-consensual care, with disregard for women’s choices and birth preferences; undignified care, characterised by disrespectful attitudes and a lack of empathy from healthcare professionals; and feelings of abandonment and neglect, including denial of companionship during childbirth and separation from newborns. Insufficient organisational and human resources in health facilities were identified as contributing factors to disrespectful care. Empathic relationships with healthcare professionals were reported to be the cornerstone of positive experiences.

Discussion

Swiss healthcare facilities showed shortcomings related to disrespect and abuse in maternal care. The pandemic context may have brought new challenges that compromised certain aspects of respectful care. The COVID-19 crisis also acted as a magnifying glass, potentially revealing and exacerbating pre-existing gaps and structural weaknesses within the healthcare system, including understaffing.

Conclusions

These findings should guide advocacy efforts, urging policy makers and health facilities to allocate adequate resources to ensure respectful and high-quality maternal care during pandemics and beyond.
Clinical application of serum tumor abnormal protein in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Fu Liusong , Zhang Chi , Wang Zewen , Tao Wei , Zhu Jin , Zhou Yibin , Sun Chuanyang , Xue Boxin , Yu Mengqi , Xu Lijun , Zang Yachen
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To explore the clinical value of tumor abnormal protein (TAP) in the diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of prostate cancer.

Methods

This study enrolled a total of 265 patients who underwent prostate biopsy procedures from December 2017. TAP levels were assayed in their blood samples using a validated TAP testing kit. Comprehensive pathological assessments, including Gleason scores, TNM staging, and AJCC prognosis stages, were conducted on prostate cancer patients. Further analysis was carried out to examine the correlation between TAP expression levels and various clinical characteristics.

Results

A significantly elevated TAP concentration was discerned in prostate cancer patients relative to those with benign prostate hyperplasia. Moreover, a significantly elevated TAP expression was detected in prostate cancer patients with high Gleason score (≥ 8) and advanced stages (III and IV), as compared to those with Gleason scores of 6 and 7 and lower stages (I and II). When diagnosing prostate cancer in gray area of PSA, TAP demonstrated superior diagnostic capabilities over PSA alone, with higher diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy than fPSA/tPSA ratio. Additionally, post-surgical or hormonal treatment, there was a marked reduction in TAP expression level among prostate cancer patients.

Conclusion

The assessment of TAP presents itself as a promising tool for early diagnosis and holds potential for sensitivity in monitoring treatment reponse in prostate cancer patients.
Validation of the Korean version of the Summated Xerostomia Inventory among older adults residing in nursing homes
Authors: Moon SeolHwa , Oh Eunmi , Chung Daum , Choi Rina , Hong Gwi-Ryung Son
Published: May 2024

Background

Xerostomia is commonly experienced by older individuals. We sought to develop and evaluate the reliability and validity of the Korean version of the Summated Xerostomia Inventory (K-SXI) among older adults residing in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in Korea.

Methods

In this secondary data analysis study using cross-sectional data, a cross-cultural adaptation process was conducted for the Korean version before data collection. Data collection was conducted from July 2021 to January 2022, targeting 544 older adults in 16 LTCFs. Data analysis included intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for test–retest reliability, and Cronbach’s α for internal consistency reliability. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to verify construct and convergent validity. Test–retest analysis was performed 6 weeks after baseline. Convergent and concurrent validities were assessed with age group and the xerostomia standard single question, respectively.

Results

A total of 544 older adults participated in this study. The mean of total K-SXI score was 11.70 (standard deviation, 4.96) points. The ICC value was calculated to be 0.90, and Cronbach’s α of K-SXI was 0.92. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a single factor, explaining 74.8% of the total variance, however, some goodness-of-fit indices of the single factor model were found to be unsuitable in confirmatory factor analysis. The convergent and concurrent validity were supported.

Conclusion

The present study provides evidence supporting the validity and reliability of the K-SXI for measuring xerostomia in institutionalized older adults in Korea.
The use of household items to support online surgical knot-tying skills training: a mixed methods study
Authors: Ebrahim Sumayyah , Kinoo Suman Mewa , Naidoo Maheshwar , Van Wyk Jacqueline Marina
Published: May 2024

Background

This study investigated the perceptions and performance of medical students regarding their engagement and learning of a knot-tying skill presented in an online demonstration format due to the emergency remote measures that accompanied COVID-19 restrictions.

Methods

Final-year undergraduate medical students were invited to view an online demonstration of a one-handed knot-tying skill and practice the skill using common household items. They recorded their attempts and uploaded them onto the Flipgrid application. Completed attempts were scored using an adapted Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill (OSATS) validated tool. We used a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design; data regarding students’ engagement was gathered via a short questionnaire, and a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was conducted to understand their learning experiences better. Descriptive statistics such as proportions and percentages were used to summarize categorical variables and median for continuous variables. Each video attempt was scored independently by two surgeons; reliability was determined using intraclass correlation; statistical tests were conducted at a 5% level of significance. Responses to open-ended survey questions and qualitative data from the FGDs were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Seventy-one students participated in the exercise. Most students (91.5%) expressed confidence in their ability to perform the skill and were able to follow the steps in the video demonstration (83.1%). Median number of times needed to practice before video submission was 7.0 (Interquartile range [IQR] 5.0–10.0). Using the adapted OSATS tool; median scores on student attempts were 19.0 out of 21 (IQR: 17.0–20.0) for Assessor 1 and 18.0 out of 21 (IQR: 17.0–20.0) for Assessor 2, and overall scores showed good reliability between assessors based on intraclass correlation (0.86, 95% CI 0.79–0.90, p < 0.001). Qualitative insights from the students’ experiences in learning the skill were generally positive; it was a practical, experiential learning process and they valued the social aspects of learning via Flipgrid. Challenges expressed related to the need for in-person training and formal feedback on how to improve their technique. Suggestions to improve their learning included a request for an interactive session with immediate feedback on attempts, and being able to practice with a friend who would assist with videoing.

Conclusion

Basic knot-tying can be taught with acceptable efficiency and student satisfaction using online methods with items available at home.
Interpretable machine learning model for predicting acute kidney injury in critically ill patients
Authors: Li Xunliang , Wang Peng , Zhu Yuke , Zhao Wenman , Pan Haifeng , Wang Deguang
Published: May 2024

Background

This study aimed to create a method for promptly predicting acute kidney injury (AKI) in intensive care patients by applying interpretable, explainable artificial intelligence techniques.

Methods

Population data regarding intensive care patients were derived from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database from 2008 to 2019. Machine learning (ML) techniques with six methods were created to construct the predicted models for AKI. The performance of each ML model was evaluated by comparing the areas under the curve (AUC). Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME) method and Shapley Additive exPlanation values were used to decipher the best model.

Results

According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 53,150 severely sick individuals were included in the present study, of which 42,520 (80%) were assigned to the training group, and 10,630 (20%) were allocated to the validation group. Compared to the other five ML models, the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model greatly predicted AKI following ICU admission, with an AUC of 0.816. The top four contributing variables of the XGBoost model were SOFA score, weight, mechanical ventilation, and the Simplified Acute Physiology Score II. An AKI and Non-AKI cases were predicted separately using the LIME algorithm.

Conclusion

Overall, the constructed clinical feature-based ML models are excellent in predicting AKI in intensive care patients. It would be constructive for physicians to provide early support and timely intervention measures to intensive care patients at risk of AKI.
The moderating role of work environment in the relationship between proactive personality and personal growth initiative among nurses: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xie Xia , Tan Jie , He Jie , Du Jiao , He Chuan , Li Zihao , Liu Youchi , Chen Yuqin
Published: May 2024

Backgrounds

Personal growth initiative (PGI) is regarded as a meaningful concept with potential value at both the individual and organizational levels, but little is known about the factors that contribute to nurses’ PGI. This study aimed to explore how proactive personality and hospital work environment affect PGI of clinical nurses.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October 2022 among 4414 nurses from 10 tertiary general hospitals in 10 cities in Sichuan, China, using a two-stage sampling method. Self-reported anonymous online questionnaires, such as sociodemographic information survey, personal growth initiative scale II, the 10-item proactive personality scale, and practice environment scale-nursing work index were used to collect data. Multiple hierarchical regression analyses were performed to examine research hypotheses.

Results

Among the control variables in this study, nurses’ self-perceptions of general health status and professional title positively predicted PGI (β = 0.462, 95%CI = 0.272–0.653; β = 1.078, 95%CI = 0.508–1.648). After adding control variables, both proactive personality (β = 1.143, 95%CI = 1.096–1.190) and work environment (β = 3.391, 95%CI = 2.904–3.879) positively predicted PGI. The work environment positively moderated the association between proactive personality and PGI (β = 0.108, 95%CI = 0.025–0.191). These predictors jointly explained 50.3% of the variance in PGI.

Conclusions

Nurses with a greater tendency to have a typical proactive personality have higher levels of personal growth initiative, and this positive effect will be better highlighted in a healthier work environment. Nursing managers should prioritize the employment of people with proactive personality traits, focus on the development and stimulation of proactive personality traits in nurses, and establish a supportive work environment to maximize the personal growth initiative of nurses.