bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The central amygdala modulates distinctive conflict-like behaviors in a naturalistic foraging task
Authors: Kimm Sunwhi , Kim Jeansok J. , Choi June-Seek
Published: August 2023

Conflict situations elicit a diverse range of behaviors that extend beyond the simplistic approach or avoidance dichotomy. However, many conflict-related studies have primarily focused on approach suppression, neglecting the complexity of these behaviors. In our study, we exposed rats to a semi-naturalistic foraging task, presenting them with a trade-off between a food reward and a predatory threat posed by a robotic agent. We observed that rats displayed two conflict-like behaviors (CLBs)—diagonal approach and stretched posture—when facing a robotic predator guarding a food pellet. After electrolytic lesions to the central amygdala (CeA), both conflict behaviors were significantly reduced, accompanied by a decrease in avoidance behavior (hiding) and an increase in approach behavior (frequency of interactions with the robot). A significant negative correlation between avoidance and approach behaviors emerged after the CeA lesion; however, our data suggest that CLBs are not tightly coupled with either approach or avoidance behaviors, showing no significant correlation to those behaviors. Our findings indicate that the CeA plays a crucial role in modulating conflict behaviors, competing with approach suppression in risky situations.
Synthesis of diffusion-weighted MRI scalar maps from FLAIR volumes using generative adversarial networks
Authors: Chan Karissa , Maralani Pejman Jabehdar , Moody Alan R. , Khademi April
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Acquisition and pre-processing pipelines for diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) volumes are resource- and time-consuming. Generating synthetic DWI scalar maps from commonly acquired brain MRI sequences such as fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) could be useful for supplementing datasets. In this work we design and compare GAN-based image translation models for generating DWI scalar maps from FLAIR MRI for the first time.

Methods

We evaluate a pix2pix model, two modified CycleGANs using paired and unpaired data, and a convolutional autoencoder in synthesizing DWI fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) from whole FLAIR volumes. In total, 420 FLAIR and DWI volumes (11,957 images) from multi-center dementia and vascular disease cohorts were used for training/testing. Generated images were evaluated using two groups of metrics: (1) human perception metrics including peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and structural similarity (SSIM), (2) structural metrics including a newly proposed histogram similarity (Hist-KL) metric and mean squared error (MSE).

Results

Pix2pix demonstrated the best performance both quantitatively and qualitatively with mean PSNR, SSIM, and MSE metrics of 23.41 dB, 0.8, 0.004, respectively for MD generation, and 24.05 dB, 0.78, 0.004, respectively for FA generation. The new histogram similarity metric demonstrated sensitivity to differences in fine details between generated and real images with mean pix2pix MD and FA Hist-KL metrics of 11.73 and 3.74, respectively. Detailed analysis of clinically relevant regions of white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) in the pix2pix images also showed strong significant (p < 0.001) correlations between real and synthetic FA values in both tissue types (R = 0.714 for GM, R = 0.877 for WM).

Discussion/conclusion

Our results show that pix2pix’s FA and MD models had significantly better structural similarity of tissue structures and fine details than other models, including WM tracts and CSF spaces, between real and generated images. Regional analysis of synthetic volumes showed that synthetic DWI images can not only be used to supplement clinical datasets, but demonstrates potential utility in bypassing or correcting registration in data pre-processing.
Association of select psychiatric disorders with incident brain aneurysm and subarachnoid hemorrhage among veterans
Authors: Cooke Daniel L. , Shen Hui , Duvvuri Madhavi , Thompson Daniel , Neylan Thomas , Wolfe William , Hetts Steven , Ovbiagele Bruce , Whooley Mary , Cohen Beth
Published: August 2023

Background

Brain aneurysms represent a significant cause of hemorrhagic stroke. Prior research has demonstrated links between stress and stroke, including brain aneurysms. We aimed to determine relationships between select psychiatric disorders and aneurysms and aneurysmal SAH.

Methods

We performed retrospective, case-control study of a National Veterans Affairs population with two experimental groups (aneurysm-only and aneurysmal SAH) and 10-fold controls per group matched by age, date, and clinical data source. The studied the presence of 4 psychiatric disorders: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and other mood disorders. Our main outcomes Unadjusted and multivariable adjusted ORs of PTSD, MDD, GAD, and mood disorders within aneurysm-only and aSAH groups.

Results

In 6,320,789 US Veterans who were enrolled for at least 5 years in Medicare and/or the Veterans Health Administration, we identified 35,094 cases of aneurysm without SAH and 5,749 cases of aneurysm with SAH between 1/2005 and 12/2019. In analyses adjusted for sex, hypertension, and tobacco use, patients with aneurysm were more likely than matched controls to have a history of PTSD (OR 1.48), MDD (OR 1.33), GAD (OR 1.26), and other mood disorders (OR 1.34) (all p-values < 0.0001). Similarly, patients with aSAH were more likely than controls to have a history of PTSD (OR 1.35), MDD (OR 1.38), GAD (OR 1.18), and other mood disorders (OR 1.30) (all p-values < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The study, the largest of its kind, further suggests links between psychiatric disorders and stroke. This is important as patients with aneurysms are not routinely screened for such psychiatric risk factors. Additional research on this topic could lead to novel strategies to improve stroke prevention.
Measuring gut perfusion and blood flow in neonates using ultrasound Doppler of the superior mesenteric artery: a narrative review
Authors: Murphy C. , Baskind S. , Aladangady N. , Banerjee J.
Published: August 2023

The gut is a relatively silent organ in utero but takes on a major role after birth for the absorption and digestion of feed for adequate nutrition and growth. The neonatal circulation undergoes a transition period after birth, and gut perfusion increases rapidly to satisfy the oxygen demand and consumption. If this process is compromised at any stage, preterm and fetal growth restricted infants are at particular risk of gut tissue injury secondary to hypoxia, leading to necrotizing enterocolitis. Feeding can also be a challenge in these high-risk groups due to gut dysmotility. Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) Doppler is a safe, bedside investigation that could rapidly aid clinicians with feeding strategies and in monitoring high-risk infants. This article aims to establish normal patterns of gut blood flow velocity in neonates using SMA Doppler and reviews how it might be used clinically in pathologic states.
Risk factors related with avascular necrosis after internal fixation of femoral neck fractures in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qi Bo-Hai , Wang Xiao-Wei , Wang Xiao-Ming , Wang Huan , Yang Ya-ting , Jie Qiang
Published: August 2023

Background

Less than 1% of children develop femoral neck fractures (FNF), making them uncommon. However, they may have dangerous side effects, like avascular necrosis. Even though several risk factors for postoperative avascular necrosis have been identified, there is still debate regarding them. In this investigation, a meta-analysis was performed to examine the potential causes of postoperative avascular necrosis in children with FNF.

Methods

We conducted a thorough literature search to find risk factors for avascular necrosis (AVN) after internal fixation of pediatric FNF. Until December 2022, we searched several databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Orthosearch, and Sinomed. Software Zotero 6.0 and Stata 17.0 were used to organise and synthesise the data. Finally, a sensitivity and publication bias test was carried out.

Results

Our study includes a total of 15 case-control studies involving 814 patients. The risk of postoperative AVN increased with age at fracture encounter (95% CI: 0.64–1.88, P = 0.0003), initial fracture displacement (95% CI: 1.87–9.54, P = 0.0005), and poor fracture reduction (95% CI:1.95–22.34, P = 0.0024) were risk factors for postoperative AVN. There was no significant relationship between gender and postoperative AVN (95% CI: 0.52–1.31, P = 0.41). Conversely, Postoperative AVN and reduction methods have no connection with each other (95% CI: 0.77–2.66, P = 0.25), procedure time (95% CI: 0.43–2.99, P = 0.16), or injury mechanism (95% CI: 0.32–2.26, P = 0.75). The incidence of post-operative AVN varies between Delbet fracture types (95% CI: 0.15–0.31, P < 0.0001), with the overall trend being that the incidence of post-operative AVN is highest for type II, lowest for type IV, and close for types I and III, but it is not clear which type of fracture is the independent risk factor. Funnel plots indicate no significant publication bias.

Conclusions

In line with this study, About 26% of children who underwent surgery for a femoral neck fracture suffered postoperative AVN. The main risk factors for AVN were the child's age, the initial displacement of the fractures, and poorly reduced fractures. The risk of AVN did not significantly correlate with gender, the time of the procedure, reduction methods or the mechanism of injury. The overall trend in the incidence of postoperative AVN for the different Delbet types of fracture is that the incidence of postoperative AVN is highest for type II, lowest for type IV, and close for types I and III, but it is not clear which type of fracture is the independent risk factor.
Clinical benefit and risk of elemene in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pan Yanhong , Wan Panting , Zhang Li , Wang Cuirong , Wang Yijun
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Elemene injection and oral emulsion, known as elemene, have been utilized have been used in adjuvant therapy for cancer patients in China for more than 20 years. In order to evaluate the efficacy and potential risks of the treatments in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, a system review and meta-analysis were conducted. Additionally, the factors that may influence the outcomes were also explored.

Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across various databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE, CKNI, Wan Fang, and VIP databases. Meta-regression, subgroup, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the heterogeneity. GRADE system and TSA were used to assess the strength of evidence and robustness of the results.

Results: The pooled data showed that combination with elemene could improve the response rate (RR:1.48, 95%CI:1.38–1.60, p < 0.00001), disease control rate (RR:1.20, 95%CI:1.15–1.25, p < 0.00001), the rate of quality-of-life improvement and stability (WMD:1.31, 95% CI:1.12–1.53, p = 0.0006), immune function (CD4+/CD8+: WMD:0.33, 95% CI:0.24–0.42, p < 0.00001), survival rate (1-year, RR:1.34, 95% CI:1.15–1.56, p = 0.0002; 2-year, RR:1.57, 95% CI:1.14–2.16, p = 0.006), and decrease the prevalence of most chemotherapy-induced side effects, especially leukopenia (Ⅲ-Ⅳ) (RR:0.46, 95% CI:0.35–0.61, p < 0.00001), thrombocytopenia (RR:0.86, 95% CI:0.78–0.95, p = 0.003), and hemoglobin reduction (RR:0.83, 95% CI:0.73–0.95, p = 0.007). However, the administration of elemene has been found to significantly increase the incidence of phlebitis in patients undergoing chemotherapy (RR:3.41, 95% CI:1.47–7.93, p = 0.004). Meta-regression and subgroup analyses discovered that the outcomes were rarely influenced by CR, CT, and dosage of elemene (DE) but the cycle number of elemene (CNE) and TT were the main sources of heterogeneity.

Discussion: As the treatment time and the number of cycles increased, the efficacy of the elemene combination decreased across various aspects. Thus, shorter duration and fewer cycles are recommended.
As an inhibitor of norepinephrine release, dexmedetomidine provides no improvement on stroke-associated pneumonia in mice
Authors: Zhou Miaomiao , Luo Qiong , Xu Younian
Published: August 2023

Background: Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is commonly employed as a sedative agent to attenuate sympathetic tone and reduce norepinephrine (NE) levels. In the context of stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP), which is believed to arise from heightened sympathetic nervous system activity and elevated NE release, the precise influence of DEX remains uncertain.

Methods: In this study, we generated an SAP model using middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and examined NE levels, immunological statuses in the brain and periphery, pneumonia symptoms, and extent of infarction. We aimed to determine the effects of DEX on SAP and explore the underlying. Despite its potential to reduce NE levels, DEX did not alleviate SAP symptoms or decrease the infarct area. Interestingly, DEX led to an increase in spleen size and spleen index. Furthermore, we observed a decrease in the CD3+ T cell population in both the blood and brain, but an increase in the spleen following DEX administration. The precise mechanism linking decreased CD3+ T cells and DEX’s role in SAP requires further investigation.

Conclusion: The clinical use of DEX in stroke patients should be approached with caution, considering its inability to alleviate SAP symptoms and reduce the infarct area. Further research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between decreased CD3+ T cells and DEX’s influence on SAP.
Special theory of relativity for a graded index fibre
Authors: Saito Shinichi
Published: August 2023

The speed of light (c) in a vacuum is independent of the choice of frames to describe the propagation, according to the theory of relativity. We consider how light is characterised in a material, where the speed of light is different from that in a vacuum due to the finite dielectric constant. The phase velocity in a material is smaller thanc, such that the speed of a moving frame can be larger than the phase velocity, such that the frame can move faster than the speed of light in a material. Consequently, an unusual Doppler effect is expected, and the wavelength in the moving frame changes from the red-shift to the blue-shift upon increasing the speed of the frame. The corresponding energy of the light also changes sign from positive to negative, while momentum is always positive, leading to the changes of signs for the phase velocity and the helicity. In a graded index fibre, where the exact solution is available, even more complicated phenomena are expected, due to the finite effective mass of photons. Upon the increase of the energy gap, generated by optical confinements and optical orbital angular momentum, the effective mass of photons increases. If the gap is large enough, momentum starts to change the sign upon increasing the frame velocity, while the energy of photons is always positive. In this case, the phase velocity diverges if momentum is in agreement with the fame velocity. Contrary to the unusual behaviours of the phase velocity, the group velocity is always belowc. This thought experiment might be useful for considering insight into the polarisation state of light.
Fractional stochastic vibration system under recycling noise
Authors: Zhang Jian-Gang , Wang Fang , Wang Hui-Nan
Published: August 2023

The fractional stochastic vibration system is quite different from the traditional one, and its application potential is enormous if the noise can be deployed correctly and the connection between the fractional order and the noise property is unlocked. This article uses a fractional modification of the well-known van der Pol oscillator with multiplicative and additive recycling noises as an example to study its stationary response and its stochastic bifurcation. First, based on the principle of the minimum mean square error, the fractional derivative is equivalent to a linear combination of damping and restoring forces, and the original system is simplified into an equivalent integer order system. Second, the Itô differential equations and One-dimensional Markov process are obtained according to the stochastic averaging method, using Oseledec multiplicative ergodic theorem and maximal Lyapunov exponent to judge local stability, and judging global stability is done by using the singularity theory. Lastly, the stochastic D-bifurcation behavior of the model is analyzed by using the Lyapunov exponent of the dynamical system invariant measure, and the stationary probability density function of the system is solved according to the FPK equation. The results show that the fractional order and noise property can greatly affect the system’s dynamical properties. This paper offers a profound, original, and challenging window for investigating fractional stochastic vibration systems.
Hyperspectral reflectance and agro-physiological traits for field identification of salt-tolerant wheat genotypes using the genotype by yield*trait biplot technique
Authors: Elfanah Ahmed M. S. , Darwish Mohamed A. , Selim Adel I. , Elmoselhy Omnya M. A. , Ali Abdelraouf M. , El-Maghraby Maher A. , Abdelhamid Magdi T.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Salinity is the abiotic obstacle that diminishes food production globally. Salinization causes by natural conditions, such as climate change, or human activities, e.g., irrigation and derange misuse. To cope with the salinity problem, improve the crop environment or utilize crop/wheat breeding (by phenotyping), specifically in spread field conditions. For example, about 33 % of the cropping area in Egypt is affected by salinity.

Methods

Therefore, this study evaluated forty bread wheat genotypes under contrasting salinity field conditions across seasons 2019/20 and 2020/21 at Sakha research station in the north of Egypt. To identify the tolerance genotypes, performing physiological parameters, e.g., Fv/Fm, CCI, Na+, and K+, spectral reflectance indices (SRIs), such as NDVI, MCARI, and SR, and estimated salinity tolerance indices based on grain yield in non-saline soil and saline soil sites over the tested years. These traits (parameters) and grain yield are simultaneously performed for generating GYT biplots.

Results

The results presented significant differences (P≤0.01) among the environments, genotypes, and their interaction for grain yield (GY) evaluated in the four environments. And the first season for traits, grain yield (GY), plant height (PH), harvest index (HI), chlorophyll content index (CCI), chlorophyll fluorescence parameter Fv/Fm, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in contrasting salinity environments. Additionally, significant differences were detected among environments, genotypes, and their interaction for grain yield along with spectral reflectance indices (SRIs), e.g., Blue/Green index (BIG2), curvature index (CI), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), Modified simple ratio (MSR). Relying on the genotype plus genotype by environment (GGE) approach, genotypes 34 and 1 are the best for salinity sites. Genotypes 1 and 29 are the best from the genotype by stress tolerance indices (GSTI) biplot and genotype 34. Genotype 1 is the best from the genotype by yield*trait (GYT) method with spectral reflectance indices.

Discussion

Therefore, we can identify genotype 1 as salinity tolerant based on the results of GSTI and GYT of SRIs and recommend involvement in the salinity breeding program in salt-affected soils. In conclusion, spectral reflectance indices were efficiently identifying genotypic variance.
Ascochyta blight in North Dakota field pea: the pathogen complex and its fungicide sensitivity
Authors: Fonseka Dimitri L. , Markell Samuel G. , Zaccaron Marcio L. , Ebert Malaika K. , Pasche Julie S.
Published: August 2023

Worldwide, Ascochyta blight is caused by a complex of host-specific fungal pathogens, including Ascochyta pisi, Didymella pinodes, and Didymella pinodella. The application of foliar fungicides is often necessary for disease management, but a better understanding of pathogen prevalence, aggressiveness, and fungicide sensitivity is needed to optimize control. Leaf and stem samples were obtained from 56 field pea production fields in 14 counties in North Dakota from 2017 to 2020 and isolates were collected from lesions characteristic of Ascochyta blight. Based on fungal characteristics and sequencing the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region, 73% of isolates were confirmed to be D. pinodes (n = 177) and 27% were A. pisi (n = 65). Across pathogens, aggressiveness was similar among some isolates in greenhouse assays. The in vitro pyraclostrobin sensitivity of all D. pinodes isolates collected from 2017 to 2020 was lower than that of the three baseline isolates. Sensitivity of 91% of A. pisi isolates collected in 2019 and 2020 was lower than the sensitivity of two known sensitive isolates. Resistance factors (Rf) from mean EC50 values of pyraclostrobin baseline/known sensitive isolates to isolates collected from 2017 to 2020 ranged from 2 to 1,429 for D. pinodes and 1 to 209 for A. pisi. In vitro prothioconazole sensitivity of 91% of D. pinodes isolates collected from 2017 to 2020 was lower than the sensitivity of the baseline isolates and 98% of A. pisi isolates collected from 2019 to 2020 was lower than the sensitivity of the known sensitive isolates. Prothioconazole Rf ranged from 1 to 338 for D. pinodes and 1 to 127 for A. pisi. Based on in vitro results, 92% of D. pinodes and 98% of A. pisi isolates collected displayed reduced-sensitivity/resistance to both fungicides when compared to baseline/known sensitive isolates. Disease control under greenhouse conditions of both pathogens provided by both fungicides was significantly lower in isolates determined to be reduced-sensitive or resistant in in vitro assays when compared to sensitive. Results reported here reinforce growers desperate need of alternative fungicides and/or management tools to fight Ascochyta blight in North Dakota and neighboring regions.
Genome-scale metabolic model led engineering of Nothapodytes nimmoniana plant cells for high camptothecin production
Authors: Murali Sarayu , Ibrahim Maziya , Rajendran Hemalatha , Shagun Shagun , Masakapalli Shyam Kumar , Raman Karthik , Srivastava Smita
Published: August 2023

Camptothecin (CPT) is a vital monoterpene indole alkaloid used in anti-cancer therapeutics. It is primarily derived from Camptotheca acuminata and Nothapodytes nimmoniana plants that are indigenous to Southeast Asia. Plants have intricate metabolic networks and use them to produce secondary metabolites such as CPT, which is a prerequisite for rational metabolic engineering design to optimize their production. By reconstructing metabolic models, we can predict plant metabolic behavior, facilitating the selection of suitable approaches and saving time, cost, and energy, over traditional hit and trial experimental approaches. In this study, we reconstructed a genome-scale metabolic model for N. nimmoniana (NothaGEM iSM1809) and curated it using experimentally obtained biochemical data. We also used in silico tools to identify and rank suitable enzyme targets for overexpression and knockout to maximize camptothecin production. The predicted over-expression targets encompass enzymes involved in the camptothecin biosynthesis pathway, including strictosidine synthase and geraniol 10-hydroxylase, as well as targets related to plant metabolism, such as amino acid biosynthesis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. The top-ranked knockout targets included reactions responsible for the formation of folates and serine, as well as the conversion of acetyl CoA and oxaloacetate to malate and citrate. One of the top-ranked overexpression targets, strictosidine synthase, was chosen to generate metabolically engineered cell lines of N. nimmoniana using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation. The transformed cell line showed a 5-fold increase in camptothecin production, with a yield of up to 5 µg g−1.
Starving the enemy: how plant and microbe compete for sugar on the border
Authors: Chen Jingsheng , Sun Miao , Xiao Guosheng , Shi Rujie , Zhao Chanjuan , Zhang Qianqian , Yang Shuo , Xuan Yuanhu
Published: August 2023

As the primary energy source for a plant host and microbe to sustain life, sugar is generally exported by Sugars Will Eventually be Exported Transporters (SWEETs) to the host extracellular spaces or the apoplast. There, the host and microbes compete for hexose, sucrose, and other important nutrients. The host and microbial monosaccharide transporters (MSTs) and sucrose transporters (SUTs) play a key role in the “evolutionary arms race”. The result of this competition hinges on the proportion of sugar distribution between the host and microbes. In some plants (such as Arabidopsis, corn, and rice) and their interacting pathogens, the key transporters responsible for sugar competition have been identified. However, the regulatory mechanisms of sugar transporters, especially in the microbes require further investigation. Here, the key transporters that are responsible for the sugar competition in the host and pathogen have been identified and the regulatory mechanisms of the sugar transport have been briefly analyzed. These data are of great significance to the increase of the sugar distribution in plants for improvement in the yield.
Assembly and analysis of the mitochondrial genome of Prunella vulgaris
Authors: Sun Zhihao , Wu Ya , Fan Pengyu , Guo Dengli , Zhang Sanyin , Song Chi
Published: August 2023

Prunella vulgaris (Lamiaceae) is widely distributed in Eurasia. Former studies have demonstrated that P. vulgaris has a wide range of pharmacological effects. Nevertheless, no complete P. vulgaris mitochondrial genome has been reported, which limits further understanding of the biology of P. vulgaris. Here, we assembled the first complete mitochondrial genome of P. vulgaris using a hybrid assembly strategy based on sequencing data from both Nanopore and Illumina platforms. Then, the mitochondrial genome of P. vulgaris was analyzed comprehensively in terms of gene content, codon preference, intercellular gene transfer, phylogeny, and RNA editing. The mitochondrial genome of P. vulgaris has two circular structures. It has a total length of 297, 777 bp, a GC content of 43.92%, and 29 unique protein-coding genes (PCGs). There are 76 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in the mitochondrial genome, of which tetrameric accounts for a large percentage (43.4%). A comparative analysis between the mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes revealed that 36 homologous fragments exist in them, with a total length of 28, 895 bp. The phylogenetic analysis showed that P. vulgaris belongs to the Lamiales family Lamiaceae and P. vulgaris is closely related to Salvia miltiorrhiza. In addition, the mitochondrial genome sequences of seven species of Lamiaceae are unconservative in their alignments and undergo frequent genome reorganization. This work reports for the first time the complete mitochondrial genome of P. vulgaris, which provides useful genetic information for further Prunella studies.
Social dominance orientation, intergroup contact and belief in traditional school culture as predictors for parents’ attitudes to school segregation in the Czech Republic
Authors: Cada Karel , Gheorghiev Olga
Published: August 2023

Background

The over-representation of Roma children in segregated schools is well documented as a prevalent form of institutional racism in the Czech Republic. In the paper, we examine the inclination of parents to support school segregation.

Objective

The paper looks at parents’ preference for school segregation and explores its association to social dominance orientation, intergroup contacts, belief in traditional schooling and the absence of Roma children in school as proof of the school’s good quality. The first hypothesis examines an association between parents’ preference to withdraw their children from ethnically diverse schools and social dominance orientation (one’s degree of preference for inequality among social groups). The second one tests the belief in traditional schooling as a factor contributing to a preference for ethnically motivated withdrawal. The third one studies the extent to which parents’ preference to withdraw their children from ethnically diverse schools is affected by contact with Roma in their everyday life. The final hypothesis tests if parents who view Roma students as an indicator of poor education in a given school are more likely to oppose the presence of Roma students among their children’s peers.

Methods

Quantitative data collection was carried out on a sample of 1,803 respondents. The target group were families with at least one child of primary school age (6–14 years). A binary logistic regression analysis was implemented to assess these relationships.

Results

The study confirmed that ethnically motivated school withdrawal is associated with social dominance orientation, belief in traditional school culture and education. On the other hand, the role of inter-group contact in a school environment was not proved. However, the final statistical model was rather weak explaining approximately 9% of variance in segregation endorsement. The model fit improved significantly when an additional variable – absence of Roma as a sign of a good school – was added. Approximately 15% of the variance in segregation endorsement was explained by the modified set of predictors.

Conclusion

The study argues that ethnically motivated school withdrawal is a result of individual attitudes and situational factors. This means that researchers interested in informal school segregation will need to consider both groups of factors.
Scoping review of the methodology of large health surveys conducted in Spain early on in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sánchez-Cantalejo Garrido Carmen , Yucumá Conde Daniela , Rueda María del Mar , Olry-de-Labry-Lima Antonio , Martín-Ruiz Eva , Higueras-Callejón Camila , Cabrera-León Andrés
Published: August 2023

Background

The use of health surveys has been key in the scientific community to promptly communicate results about the health impact of COVID-19. But what information was collected, where, when and how, and who was the study population?

Objective

To describe the methodological characteristics used in large health surveys conducted in Spain early on in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Scoping review. Inclusion criteria: observational studies published between January 2020 and December 2021, with sample sizes of over 2,000 persons resident in Spain. Databases consulted: PubMed, CINAHL, Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe en CC de la Salud, Scopus, PsycINFO, Embase, Sociological Abstracts, Dialnet and Web of Science Core Collection. We analyzed the characteristics of the literature references, methodologies and information gathered in the surveys selected. Fifty five studies were included.

Results

Sixty percentage of the studies included had mental health as their main topic and 75% were conducted on the general adult population. Thirteen percentage had a longitudinal design, 93% used the internet to gather information and the same percentage used non-probability sampling. Thirty percentage made some type of sampling correction to reduce coverage or non-response biases, but not selection biases. Sixty seven percentage did not state the availability of their data.

Conclusions

Consistent with the extensive use of non-probability sampling without any bias correction in the extraordinary setting created by COVID-19, quality population frameworks are required so that probability and representative samples can be extracted quickly to promptly address other health crises, as well as to reduce potential coverage, non-response and particularly selection biases by utilizing reweighting techniques. The low data accessibility despite the huge opportunity that COVID-19 provided for Open Science-based research is striking.
Digital monitoring for data-driven antimicrobial stewardship: a process perspective from resource-constrained contexts in India
Authors: Thakral Yogita
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is one of society’s most urgent global issues, requiring urgent multidisciplinary-based research and practice approaches to engage with these policies. Several global and national policy statements have been released in the last two decades, particularly emphasising the strengthening of the digital surveillance system. However, implementing these initiatives remains patchy, particularly in the context of public health systems in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. This paper argues that one of the significant reasons contributing to this sub-optimal uptake of these systems is that the top-down implementation models do not adequately cater to the needs, aspirations, and capacities of the health facility staff, who, ultimately, are the end users of the system. The paper highlights the importance of digital technology in healthcare facilities with resource constraints to promote the responsible use of antibiotics. It discusses the process of developing an evidence base for action in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) through digitally mediated data-driven policy. This process is conceptualised as a three-phase process, which involves stabilising data entry, generating outcomes, and taking action at the local level. The paper argues the need for bottom-up implementation models, which emphasise the need to understand the practices users engage with in their everyday work and design the digital system to add value and not work to these everyday practices. The paper emphasises the importance of building local capacities to develop effective and sustainable antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs through enabling networking around digital solutions, creating value in networked partnerships, initiating conversations around data, and raising awareness of the digital to develop AMS programs.
Iron chelators as a therapeutic option for Alzheimer’s disease—A mini-review
Authors: Schreiner Oliver Daniel , Schreiner Thomas Gabriel
Published: August 2023

Neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease (AD), remain a great challenge regarding the finding of effective treatment, one main reason being the incomplete understanding of their etiology. With many intensely debated hypotheses, a newer approach based on the impact of iron imbalance in sustaining neurodegeneration in the central nervous system becomes increasingly popular. Altered iron homeostasis leads to increased iron accumulation in specific brain areas, explaining the clinical picture of AD patients. Moreover, growing evidence sustains the significant impact of iron metabolism in relationship to other pathological processes encountered in the AD-affected brain, such as the amyloidogenic pathway, chronic inflammation, or oxidative stress. In this context, this mini-review aims to summarize the novel data from the continuously expanding literature on this topic in a didactic manner. Thus, in the first part, the authors briefly highlight the most relevant aspects related to iron absorption, transport, regulation, and elimination at the cerebral level, focusing on the role of the blood-brain barrier and the newer concept of ferroptosis. Subsequently, currently available iron chelation therapies are discussed, including an overview of the most relevant clinical trials on this topic. In the final part, based on the latest results from in vitro and in vivo studies, new research directions are suggested to enhance the development of effective antidementia therapies.
Limited evidence of a shared genetic relationship between C-reactive protein levels and cognitive function in older UK adults of European ancestry
Authors: Packer Amy , Corbett Anne , Arathimos Ryan , Ballard Clive , Aarsland Dag , Hampshire Adam , Dima Danai , Creese Byron , Malanchini Margherita , Powell Timothy R.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Previous studies have shown associations between cognitive function and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in older adults. Few studies have considered the extent to which a genetic predisposition for higher CRP levels contributes to this association.

Methods

Data was analyzed from 7,817 UK participants aged >50 years as part of the PROTECT study, within which adults without dementia completed a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. We constructed a polygenic risk score (PRS-CRP) that explained 9.61% of the variance in serum CRP levels (p = 2.362 × 10−7) in an independent cohort. Regressions were used to explore the relationship between PRS-CRP and cognitive outcomes.

Results

We found no significant associations between PRS-CRP and any cognitive measures in the sample overall. In older participants (>62 years), we observed a significant positive association between PRS-CRP and self-ordered search score (i.e., spatial working memory).

Conclusion

Whilst our results indicate a weak positive relationship between PRS-CRP and spatial working memory that is specific to older adults, overall, there appears to be no strong effects of PRS-CRP on cognitive function.
HPV vaccination in Kenya: a study protocol to assess stakeholders' perspectives on implementation drivers of HPV vaccination and the acceptability of the reduced dose strategy among providers
Authors: Umutesi Grace , Oluoch Lynda , Weiner Bryan J. , Bukusi Elizabeth , Onono Maricianah , Njoroge Betty , Mecca Lucy , Ngure Kenneth , Mugo Nelly R. , Barnabas Ruanne V.
Published: August 2023

Background

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Kenyan women. Persistent infection with high-risk oncogenic Human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes is a necessary cause of cervical cancer. HPV vaccines are safe, durable, and efficacious in preventing incident HPV infections. In Kenya, despite efforts to increase HPV vaccination, coverage remains low. We sought to assess: (1) barriers and facilitators of HPV vaccination from the perspective of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), their guardians as well as stakeholders involved in HPV vaccine delivery, and (2) the acceptability of the single dose of the HPV vaccination among healthcare providers (HCPs).

Methods

Our study is nested within the KENya Single-dose HPV-vaccine Efficacy study (KEN SHE) that sought to test the efficacy of single-dose bivalent (HPV 16/18) and single-dose nonavalent (HPV 16/18/31/33/45/52/58/6/11) vaccination. We are conducting this study in Kiambu, Nairobi, and Kisumu counties. In these counties, we are interviewing stakeholders (n = ∼25), selected based on their role in HPV vaccination at the county and national levels. Interviews are audio recorded and conducted in English or Swahili. The semi-structured interview guides were designed based on: (1) the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) for AGYW and guardians and (2) the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) for other stakeholders. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) was leveraged to design the survey administered to HCPs (n = ∼309) involved in HPV vaccination. We will develop a codebook based on emerging codes from the transcripts and constructs from the TDF and CFIR. Emerging themes will be summarized highlighting similarities and differences between and within the different stakeholder groups and counties. Descriptive statistics and a χ2 test will be used to assess the distribution of responses between the different sites and regression analysis will be used to assess factors associated with high acceptability of the single-dose strategy while controlling for confounding variables.

Discussion

Our study will describe key barriers and facilitators that affect HPV vaccination from the perspective of multiple stakeholders as well as insights on the perspective of HCPs towards the single-dose strategy to inform the designing of strategies to increase HPV vaccination uptake in Kenya and comparable settings.
Comparing magnetopause predictions from two MHD models during a geomagnetic storm and a quiet period
Authors: Dredger Pauline M. , Lopez Ramon E. , Collado-Vega Yaireska M.
Published: August 2023

Magnetopause location is an important prediction of numerical simulations of the magnetosphere, yet the models can err, either under-predicting or over-predicting the motion of the boundary. This study compares results from two of the most widely used magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) models, the Lyon–Fedder–Mobarry (LFM) model and the Space Weather Modeling Framework (SWMF), to data from the GOES 13 and 15 satellites during the geomagnetic storm on 22 June 2015, and to THEMIS A, D, and E during a quiet period on 31 January 2013. The models not only reproduce the magnetopause crossings of the spacecraft during the storm, but they also predict spurious magnetopause motion after the crossings seen in the GOES data. We investigate the possible causes of the over-predictions during the storm and find the following. First, using different ionospheric conductance models does not significantly alter predictions of the magnetopause location. Second, coupling the Rice Convection Model (RCM) to the MHD codes improves the SWMF magnetopause predictions more than it does for the LFM predictions. Third, the SWMF produces a stronger ring current than LFM, both with and without the RCM and regardless of the LFM spatial resolution. During the non-storm event, LFM predicts the THEMIS magnetopause crossings due to the southward interplanetary magnetic field better than the SWMF. Additionally, increasing the LFM spatial grid resolution improves the THEMIS predictions, while increasing the SWMF grid resolutions does not.
Determinants of farmers’ willingness to pay for improved cultivars of Macrotyloma geocarpum (harms) Maréchal and Baudet in Benin and Togo
Authors: Agossou Aboègnonhou Chaldia Odette , N’Danikou Sognigbé , Fassinou Hotègni V. Nicodème , Kakpo Thomas Ange , Coulibaly Mariam , Oselebe Happiness Ogba , Achigan-Dako Enoch Gbènato
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Quality seed is essential to satisfy food demand. This is also true for neglected crops especially those that are economically valuable such as Kersting’s groundnut (Macrotyloma geocarpum), which holds the potential to improve farmers’ livelihoods. In this study, we assessed the attributes that drove Kersting groundnut farmers’ willingness to pay for improved seeds.

Methods

A total of 567 respondents were selected in the Northern Guinea and Southern Sudanian production zones in Benin and Togo using chain referral sampling, and they were then interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire. Classification and regression trees, Ordinary Least Squared, and Tobit regression were combined to assess the relationship between the socio-demographic variables and farmers’ Willingness to Pay (WTP) and Amount they are Willing to Pay (AWTP).

Results and discussion

Results suggested that more than 90% of respondents involved in the production of Macrotyloma geocarpum were willing to access its improved seeds, including those who had already abandoned the cultivation of this crop due to constraints such as the very low seed yield of current cultivars, the difficulty to access seeds, and the cultivation practices. The factors which affected the amount farmers are willing to pay included the following: the low yield of current cultivars used by farmers, the expected yield of the improved variety, which should be higher than 1 ton per ha (1 t.ha−1), the socio-linguistic group affiliation, and the adoption level of improved agricultural technologies. The average amount fixed by seed companies that farmers were willing to pay for 1 kg of the improved seed was USD 5.35 but they have freely proposed to pay the average amount of USD 4.63 to access 1 kg of improved seed. The white-seeded cultivar was the most appreciated by farmers and was the most cultivated in the Northern Guinean Zone whereas the cultivation of the colored-seeded (e.g., black-seeded) cultivars was mainly noted in the Southern Sudanian Zone. Furthermore, the respondents indicated seed yield improvement and disease management as their main research needs to help increase the production of the crop. The findings of this research will help refine Macrotyloma geocarpum improvement programs to release farmer-needed varieties.
Effects of Agricultural Cropping Systems on Soil Water Capacity: The Case in Cross-Border Altai
Authors: Bondarovich Andrey , Illiger Patrick , Schmidt Gerd , Ponkina Elena , Nugumanova Aliya , Maulit Almasbek , Sutula Maxim
Published: August 2023

Temperate grasslands are called the breadbaskets of the world. Due to most continental climate conditions, humus-rich soils have been developed. These soils are very well suited for grain production. This is why extensive conversions from natural steppe to arable land have been implemented in this biome. The Kulunda Steppe, in Southwest Siberia and Central Asia, occupies large parts of the driest regions of the Eurasian Steppe Belt. It was one of the sites of the Virgin Land Campaign realized in the former Soviet Union in the 1950s and 1960s. Intensive agricultural practices have caused significant soil degradation, mainly through humus loss and soil erosion. This results in the degradation of organic carbon, altering the physical and chemical structure of the chestnut soils and impacting their water storage capacity. Against the background of climatic changes, a further intensification of these processes and conditions is to be expected. To stabilize soil carbon and optimize moisture utilization, it is necessary to extensively introduce worldwide experiences in conservation cropping technologies (such as no-till, min-till, and direct seeding) in the area. This study aimed to determine the effects of different cropping systems on soil water storage and water availability. The study’s initial hypothesis was that the soil conservational cropping system has advantages against the traditional deep tillage (24 cm). This hypothesis was based on extensive global experience studying the effects of different agricultural management systems on soil-water balance. In 2013–2016, an experiment was conducted for the first time in the Kulunda steppe to instrumentally measure soil moisture and matrix potential at 30–60–120 cm depth under traditional and conservation technology using innovative meteorological and soil hydrological stations. Statistically significant advantages of no-till over deep tillage (24 cm) in terms of moisture retention were found, confirming the hypothesis of this study. Besides, this groundbreaking study reveals new possibilities for soil monitoring in the region. The acquired data are applicable for predictive models using remote sensing. Moreover, the results on the management effects for the soil water balance provide basic approaches to soil water monitoring, offering important data for evaluating model results and remote sensing products for the region.