bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of spatial distance on numerical distance processing
Authors: Shichel Ido , Goldfarb Liat
Published: June 2024

The close relationship between numerical and spatial representation has been widely studied. However, little is known regarding the influence of spatial distance on the processing of numerical distance. The purpose of this study was to examine this relationship by employing a modified numerical Stroop task, in which the spatial distance was either congruent or incongruent with the numerical distance. That is, numerical and spatial distances were either compatible with each other or incompatible. Experiment 1 demonstrated that when participants were directly requested to assess the numerical distance, spatial distance influenced task performance, thereby revealing a novel effect—the spatial-numerical distance congruency effect. Experiment 2 demonstrated that these relations are asymmetrical and revealed that numerical distance did not influence spatial distance when the numerical distance was task-irrelevant. Experiment 3 revealed that the spatial-numerical distance congruency effect can also be obtained automatically by employing a numerical comparison task, which is considered a marker for indirect distance processing. In addition, also tested across the three experiments was whether spatial alignment on the screen (i.e., left, centre, and right) can influence the spatial-numerical distance congruency effect. Results revealed that when numbers were presented more naturally (on the left and centre of the screen), a larger effect was obtained compared with when stimuli were presented on the right side. Together, these findings shed new light regarding the relationship between numerical distance and spatial distance and whether and how these aspects influence each other.
Investigation on improving mechanical property of silicone rubber by employing functionalized nanosilica
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Zhao Hongfa , Zhu Linlin
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the functionalized nanosilica was prepared via covalent modification and used as effective nanofillers to reinforce silicone rubber matrix. The influence of functionalized nanosilica on the mechanical property of PVMQ was examined. The microstructures of the nanocomposites were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. As the nanosilica loading reaches up to 90 wt%, the tensile strength of functionalized nanosilica/PVMQ rubber nanocomposites can reach the maximum values (3.67 MPa). It was noteworthy that the functionalized nanosilica not only could be homogeneously dispersed and incorporated into the polymeric matrix as fillers but also could be effectively improved the mechanical property of the silicone rubber.
Clinical presentation and treatment of four children with pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma
Authors: Yang Yiting , Wang Quan , Pan Zhengxia , Li Hongbo , An Yong , Wu Chun
Published: June 2024

Primary lung cancer in childhood is extremely rare, with an incidence rate of less than 2/100,0000, and pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (PMEC), is even rarer. Their symptoms are usually not specific, and there are no guidelines for their management, which makes their clinical management a challenge for pediatricians. The purpose of this report is to discuss the clinical presentation, positive signs, examinations, pathological characteristics, surgical modalities, chemotherapy regimens, and prognosis in children. The clinical data of four patients diagnosed with PMEC at the Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from June 2021 to November 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, and their clinical features, treatment, and prognosis were summarized. Among them, two were male and two were female; their ages ranged from 3 years and 10 months to 10 years and 11 months, and all were staged according to tumor node metastasis classification (TNM). Immunohistochemical tests were performed in all children, among which four cases were positive for cytokeratin (CK), two cases were positive for CK7, four cases were positive for p63, about 5–10% of tumor cells were positive for Ki67. Among the four children, three had surgery alone and one had surgery + chemotherapy. All four children are presently living, with no evidence of tumor recurrence or metastasis. PMEC in children is very rare, and its age of onset and symptoms are not specific, and there is no obvious correlation with gender. Its diagnosis mainly relies on pathomorphological diagnosis, and immunohistochemical detection has no specific performance. The prognosis of children with PMEC is related to the clinical stage and whether surgery is performed. Whether further chemotherapy or radiotherapy is needed for patients who cannot undergo surgical resection and for those who have a combination of distant metastases requires further clinical studies.
Insulin Pump Therapy and Adverse Skin Reactions With Focus on Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Individuals Living With Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Clinical-Based Update
Authors: von Kobyletzki Laura Beate , Ulriksdotter Josefin , von Kobyletzki Elisa , Mowitz Martin , Jendle Johan , Svedman Cecilia
Published: June 2024

Background:

The use of insulin pumps (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion [CSII]) in individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) improves disease control. However, adverse skin reactions may hamper compliance. We aimed to assess the relationship of insulin pumps, particularly that of infusion set therapy, used in children and adults with T1D and dermatitis including allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).

Methods:

A systematic search of PubMed, and EMBASE, of full-text studies reporting dermatitis in persons with diabetes using a CSII was conducted from 2020 to 2023. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess study quality. The inventory performed at the Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology, Malmö, Sweden (YMDA) was also performed highlighting the diagnostic process.

Results:

Among the 391 screened abstracts, 21 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Seven studies included data on children only, four studies were on adults, and nine studies reported data on both children and adults. Participants were exposed to a broad range of pumps. Dermatitis was rarely specified. Up to 60% of those referred to a university hospital due to skin reactions possibly related to insulin pumps had an ACD.

Conclusions:

The review and our findings indicate that there is not sufficient focus on contact allergy in the primary toxicological evaluations of substances used also for insulin pump therapy products and that possible adverse skin reactions are not correctly followed up in the clinical setting.
Research as a Mangrove: Emancipatory Science and the Messy Reality of Transdisciplinarity
Authors: Milberg Muñiz Esther , Ludwig David , El-Hani Charbel N.
Published: June 2024

This study explores the challenges of realizing the emancipatory potential of transdisciplinary research and methodology through a case study involving researchers from the Federal University of Bahia and the community of Siribinha Brazil. The project aimed to prioritize community perspectives, critical reflexivity, and dialogue between diverse knowledge systems to address social-environmental challenges. However, three core challenges emerged: 1) Power inequities often persist despite calls for participation and collaboration; 2) critical theoretical reflections do not always translate into practical actions that challenge these inequities; and 3) bridging theory and practice necessitates developing interpersonal skills and fostering care. This research highlights the fragility of transdisciplinary methodologies and emphasizes the need to address power imbalances, bridge theory and practice, and cultivate interpersonal skills and care. It contributes to discussions on implementing transdisciplinary approaches that not only address epistemic challenges but also fulfill the political ambition of benefiting disenfranchised communities.
Anaesthetic management of a pregnant patient undergoing meningioma resection: A case report
Authors: Duffy Oscar , Sharapi Mahfouz , Drew Thomas , Moran Catherine , O’Neill Tanya
Published: June 2024

The management of intracranial malignancies in pregnancy poses unique challenges to the perioperative team. We describe the successful surgical management of a meningioma in a 28-year-old previously healthy patient, in her third trimester of pregnancy, who first presented with a generalised seizure. Without clear guidelines on the management of intracranial malignancies in pregnancy, a multidisciplinary approach was essential in providing a management plan for the patient’s seizures and on the timing of her surgical intervention. Hormone-mediated tumour growth was a significant factor in opting for urgent surgical intervention and we discuss the current evidence linking hormones to tumour growth in pregnancy.
Congenital cervico-vaginal aplasia with a functional uterus: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Faraj Chaymae , Essetti Sara , Bahlouli Nourrelhouda , Chait Fatima , Allali Nazik , Chat Latifa , El Haddad Siham
Published: June 2024

Maldevelopment of the vagina and cervix is frequently accompanied by uterine aplasia or hypoplasia. Complete cervico-vaginal aplasia with a normally developing uterus is a very uncommon type of developmental failure. Failure to treat the condition can result in complications such as hematometra and hematosalpinx caused by the retrograde flow of blood into the fallopian tubes. In this case report, we describe the case of a 32-year-old woman experiencing cyclic abdominal pain and primary amenorrhea. The patient exhibited cervico-vaginal agenesis, with a functional uterus that was complicated by hematometra and bilateral hematosalpinx.
Treatment of renal pruritus with dupilumab monotherapy: A case report
Authors: Glockler-Lauf S. Dresden , Kirchhof Mark G
Published: June 2024

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus leads to decreased quality of life and is an independent risk factor for mortality. There is limited evidence for treatment of chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus, with only one on-label treatment approved by the FDA and Health Canada. We present a case of a 69-year-old female with a history of chronic kidney disease, who presented to clinic with a several-year history of diffuse, intense pruritus. There were no primary lesions. She was started on dupilumab 600 mg loading dose, then 300 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks. At her follow-up appointment 5 months after initiation of dupilumab, she reported her pruritus as 1/10, with no interruptions in her sleep. Her creatinine remained elevated and was stable throughout the follow-up period. This case demonstrates sustained improvement in chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus with dupilumab. Further research is required to quantify the efficacy of dupilumab for treatment of chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus.
Commentary on “Look up! Five research proposals for rethinking marketing in a post-growth society”: Contribution of lacanian discourse to a more responsible marketing
Authors: Garnier Marion , Gotteland David
Published: June 2024

In this article, we comment on the reflection of Rémy et al. on marketing in a “post-growth” society, where the exchange partners encompass all the stakeholders with which the organization interacts, including its natural environment. We share the idea of Rémy et al. that marketing must radically evolve. We extend their point of view by adopting a Lacanian perspective. According to Lacan, discourse is what creates the “social bond.” We then propose, based on the Lacanian theory of discourse, to question what the discourse of a responsible marketing would be in a post-growth and therefore post-jouissance society.
The influence of visual and textual frames on people’s perception of migrants
Authors: Famulari Umberto , Hatley Major Lesa
Published: June 2024

This study investigated how the combination of textual and visual frames influences the attribution of responsibility for arrest and deportation of undocumented migrants and empathy. A 3 visual frame: (no photo, stereotypical photo, counter-stereotypical photo) × 2 textual frame: (episodic, thematic) between-subjects online experiment revealed that including a counter-stereotypical photograph in both episodic and thematic news stories had a positive effect on empathy for undocumented migrants but did not affect responsibility for arrest and deportation. Adding a stereotypical photograph to an episodic news story significantly reduced societal responsibility for arrest and deportation and decreased the level of empathy.
Intense impressions: Joseph R. Biden toward a 2020 national grief
Authors: Rushevics Alicen
Published: June 2024

By mid-May of 2020, the United States surpassed 100,000 lives lost to COVID-19. The nation was scrambling to make sense of the global pandemic amid the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Focusing on Biden’s pandemic-related speaking moments throughout the 2020 election, I attend to the way Biden lingers in the felt intensities of grief. With this, I illustrate how Biden’s articulations of grief rely on affective intensities which situate a personal grief in open relation to an invisible other, a reaching out, the towardness of which moves away from the particular and toward the singular collective—national grief. Utilizing affect theory, public feelings scholarship, and precedential expectations for presidential speech, I argue that Biden’s grief rhetoric, against the absence of any similar grief-related public address from Trump during this time, defines the emergence of an affective national body—a grieving public. This analysis weaves between notions of individual and collective loss and prompts wider questions of presidential responsibility in response to shared trauma.
Investigating social media users’ preferences of content and sourcing during a crisis
Authors: Riddell Heather
Published: June 2024

Crisis communication is not a linear communication occurrence as users seek out information from multiple sources and contribute their own opinions or frames to the discussion. This study focuses on a user-centered and public-oriented perspective of crisis communication on social media. The study investigated how users received and reacted to crisis communication messages from the media, organizations, and other users. A survey analyzed framed crisis communication consumption and examined source preferences for content and credibility during a crisis. Participants responded to crisis posts, determined overall source credibility, and indicated how they viewed crisis communication from other users. The results of this study indicate a needed shift in the role of media effects and an emphasis on credibility and reliance on organizational messages.
International communication: On the significance of borders in the digital borderless world
Authors: Mattelart Tristan , Hong Yu , Milan Stefania , Thussu Daya K , Wasserman Herman
Published: June 2024

In this Dialogue, we reproduce the discussions held during a plenary session that took place during the International Association for Media and Communication Research (IAMCR) conference organized in Lyon in July 2023. Hosted by Tristan Mattelart, this session brought together four distinguished speakers who have all worked extensively, with different perspectives, on the processes of international communication: Yu Hong, Stefania Milan, Daya K Thussu, and Herman Wasserman. It addressed some of the most pressing issues in the field of international communication: the key role played by some global digital corporations in the building of the so-called digital “borderless” world, the latter’s growing multipolarity, the ambivalent nature of the transnational digital flows crossing it, and the continuing importance of borders and States.
Foreign body ingestion: A case of wine-cork ingestion due to chronic alcoholism leading to ileus
Authors: Tobcu Eren , Özcan Haldun , Karavaş Erdal , Topçu Bilgin
Published: June 2024

Ingestion of foreign bodies is a rare clinical problem in healthy adults. Less than 1% of cases need surgery due to perforation or obstruction. Here, we describe an unusual case of a wine-cork ingestion by a 54-year-old woman with a history of chronic alcohol consumption. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis revealed foreign body (FB) in terminal ileum. The proximal part of the ileum was dilated due to obstruction. Laparotomy was performed, and the FB was removed without complications. Most ingested FBs spontaneously pass through the gastrointestinal tract. However, in rare instances, the FB can cause obstruction. In case of suspicion of serious complications such as obstruction and perforation, abdominopelvic CT should be used. The application of radiographic techniques in the identification of FBs and the assessment of potential complications plays a crucial role in expediting medical interventions for patients.
Digital Economy, Energy Structure and Carbon Emissions: Evidence from China
Authors: Sun Jianbin , Wu Xiaohong
Published: June 2024

The digital economy is an important driving force for China’s economic transformation and upgrading, while “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality” is the goal to be achieved in China. Based on the panel data of 30 Chinese provinces (cities and districts) from 2012 to 2019, the article empirically investigates the impact of the digital economy on regional carbon emissions and its mechanism of action by using a two-way fixed-effects model and mediated-effects model. The study shows that, firstly, the digital economy has a significant carbon emission reduction effect, and the conclusion still holds after robustness testing. Secondly, the emission reduction effect of industry digitization in the digital economy dimension is the most obvious. Again, the carbon emission reduction effect of digital economy development on different regions varies, with the strongest carbon emission reduction effect on western regions and regions with high carbon emission levels. Finally, the analysis of mediating effects shows that the energy structure is an important mechanism for the digital economy to suppress regional carbon emissions. The findings of the study provide a feasible path and policy reference for the digital economy to contribute to the goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality.”
Sources, Conceptualizations, and Mechanisms of Racism/Oppression for Academic and Mental Health Outcomes
Authors: Polk Whitney M. , Hill Nancy E. , Hughes Diane L.
Published: June 2024

Interpersonal and systemic racism and discrimination persist in our educational system—from primary and secondary institutions through college, despite the forward strides of desegregation, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Black Lives Matter movement. This special topic collection identifies and applies empirically and theoretically grounded conceptualizations of racism to improve our understanding of the experience of racism, interventions to mitigate it, and protective factors. The papers in this collection reflect two themes: 1) racial and religious identities in classrooms, schools, and universities, focusing on how educators mitigate and perpetuate systemic racism, including how White teachers understand the impact of race, how inclusive and antiracism curricula are received and rejected by future educators and clinicians, and the impact of exclusionary social networks in the hiring of teachers of color and 2) school belonging and climate, including documenting that students of color feel less safe, are disproportionately exposed to harsh discipline, question their belonging, and question commitments to diversity. The negative sequelae are concurrent and last into adulthood. In addition, there are several advances in theory and measurement, including assessing gendered and racial biases in teachers’ attributions about students’ abilities, frameworks for mitigating colonial and racialized trauma, and domains of antiracist activism to bring racial justice and equity to schools.
Income Extraction via the Criminal Legal System: A Community-Level Perspective
Authors: Shannon Sarah K. S. , Larson Ryan , Kennedy Ian , O’Neill Kate K. , Harris Alexes
Published: June 2024

Legal financial obligations (LFOs) are financial penalties imposed by U.S. criminal courts that generate disproportionate negative effects for poor and minoritized individuals and communities. In this visualization, the authors use court administrative data for all criminal cases in Washington and Minnesota from 2010 to 2015 to measure community-level income extraction via LFOs in Seattle and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Unlike previous measures of LFOs at the community level, the authors calculate the proportion of income in a given census tract that is extracted in the form of LFOs. This operationalization makes it possible to ask, given a tract-year’s existing income per capita, what proportion of that income went toward LFOs from cases sentenced. The authors’ maps demonstrate that disadvantaged communities pay a higher share of their income in LFOs compared with more advantaged neighborhoods, perpetuating social control and poverty at the neighborhood level.
Enhancement of STroke REhabilitation with Levodopa (ESTREL): Rationale and design of a randomized placebo-controlled, double blind superiority trial
Authors: Zietz Annaelle , Kaufmann Josefin E , Wiesner Karin , Fischer Sandro Kevin , Wiegert Martina , Verhagen-Kamerbeek Wilma DJ , Rottenberger Yannik , Schwarz Anne , Peters Nils , Gensicke Henrik , Medlin Friedrich , Möller Jens Carsten , Bujan Bartosz , Bonati Leo H , Arnold Marcel , Schaedelin Sabine , Müri René M. , Hemkens Lars G , Michel Patrik , Lyrer Philippe A , Held Jeremia P , Ford Gary A , Luft Andreas R , Traenka Christopher , Engelter Stefan T
Published: June 2024

Rationale:

Novel therapeutic approaches are needed in stroke recovery. Whether pharmacological therapies are beneficial for enhancing stroke recovery is unclear. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in motor learning, reward, and brain plasticity. Its prodrug levodopa is a promising agent for stroke recovery.

Aim and hypothesis:

To investigate the hypothesis that levodopa, in addition to standardized rehabilitation therapy based on active task training, results in an enhancement of functional recovery in acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients compared to placebo.

Design:

ESTREL (Enhancement of Stroke REhabilitation with Levodopa) is a randomized (ratio 1:1), multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group superiority trial.

Participants:

610 participants (according to sample size calculation) with a clinically meaningful hemiparesis will be enrolled ⩽7 days after stroke onset. Key eligibility criteria include (i) in-hospital-rehabilitation required, (ii) capability to participate in rehabilitation, (iii) previous independence in daily living.

Intervention:

Levodopa 100 mg/carbidopa 25 mg three times daily, administered for 5 weeks in addition to standardized rehabilitation. The study intervention will be initiated within 7 days after stroke onset.

Comparison:

Matching placebo plus standardized rehabilitation.

Outcomes:

The primary outcome is the between-group difference of the Fugl-Meyer-Motor Assessment (FMMA) total score measured 3 months after randomization. Secondary outcomes include patient-reported health and wellbeing (PROMIS 10 and 29), patient-reported assessment of improvement, Rivermead Mobility Index, modified Rankin Scale, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and as measures of harm: mortality, recurrent stroke, and serious adverse events.

Conclusion:

The ESTREL trial will provide evidence of whether the use of Levodopa in addition to standardized rehabilitation in stroke patients leads to better functional recovery compared to rehabilitation alone.
Genetic parameters for novel climatic resilience indicators derived from automatically-recorded vaginal temperature in lactating sows under heat stress conditions
Authors: Wen Hui , Johnson Jay S. , Gloria Leonardo S. , Araujo Andre C. , Maskal Jacob M. , Hartman Sharlene Olivette , de Carvalho Felipe E. , Rocha Artur Oliveira , Huang Yijian , Tiezzi Francesco , Maltecca Christian , Schinckel Allan P. , Brito Luiz F.
Published: June 2024

Background

Longitudinal records of automatically-recorded vaginal temperature (TV) could be a key source of data for deriving novel indicators of climatic resilience (CR) for breeding more resilient pigs, especially during lactation when sows are at an increased risk of suffering from heat stress (HS). Therefore, we derived 15 CR indicators based on the variability in TV in lactating sows and estimated their genetic parameters. We also investigated their genetic relationship with sows’ key reproductive traits.

Results

The heritability estimates of the CR traits ranged from 0.000 ± 0.000 for slope for decreased rate of TV (SlopeDe) to 0.291 ± 0.047 for sum of TV values below the HS threshold (HSUB). Moderate to high genetic correlations (from 0.508 ± 0.056 to 0.998 ± 0.137) and Spearman rank correlations (from 0.431 to 1.000) between genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) were observed for five CR indicators, i.e. HS duration (HSD), the normalized median multiplied by normalized variance (Nor_medvar), the highest TV value of each measurement day for each individual (MaxTv), and the sum of the TV values above (HSUA) and below (HSUB) the HS threshold. These five CR indicators were lowly to moderately genetically correlated with shoulder skin surface temperature (from 0.139 ± 0.008 to 0.478 ± 0.048) and respiration rate (from 0.079 ± 0.011 to 0.502 ± 0.098). The genetic correlations between these five selected CR indicators and sow reproductive performance traits ranged from − 0.733 to − 0.175 for total number of piglets born alive, from − 0.733 to − 0.175 for total number of piglets born, and from − 0.434 to − 0.169 for number of pigs weaned. The individuals with the highest GEBV (most climate-sensitive) had higher mean skin surface temperature, respiration rate (RR), panting score (PS), and hair density, but had lower mean body condition scores compared to those with the lowest GEBV (most climate-resilient).

Conclusions

Most of the CR indicators evaluated are heritable with substantial additive genetic variance. Five of them, i.e. HSD, MaxTv, HSUA, HSUB, and Nor_medvar share similar underlying genetic mechanisms. In addition, individuals with higher CR indicators are more likely to exhibit better HS-related physiological responses, higher body condition scores, and improved reproductive performance under hot conditions. These findings highlight the potential benefits of genetically selecting more heat-tolerant individuals based on CR indicators.
Modifications in gene expression and phenolic compounds content by methyl jasmonate and fungal elicitors in Ficus carica. Cv. Siah hairy root cultures
Authors: Amani Shahla , Mohebodini Mehdi , Khademvatan Shahram , Jafari Morad , Kumar Vinod
Published: June 2024

Background

One of the most effective strategies to increase phytochemicals production in plant cultures is elicitation. In the present study, we studied the effect of abiotic and biotic elicitors on the growth, key biosynthetic genes expression, antioxidant capacity, and phenolic compounds content in Rhizobium (Agrobacterium) rhizogenes-induced hairy roots cultures of Ficus carica cv. Siah.

Methods

The elicitors included methyl jasmonate (MeJA) as abiotic elicitor, culture filtrate and cell extract of fungus Piriformospora indica as biotic elicitors were prepared to use. The cultures of F. carica hairy roots were exposed to elicitores at different time points. After elicitation treatments, hairy roots were collected, and evaluated for growth index, total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) content, antioxidant activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, DPPH and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power, FRAP assays), expression level of key phenolic/flavonoid biosynthesis genes, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of some main phenolic compounds in comparison to control.

Results

Elicitation positively or negatively affected the growth, content of phenolic/flavonoid compounds and DPPH and FRAP antioxidant activities of hairy roots cultures in depending of elicitor concentration and exposure time. The maximum expression level of chalcone synthase (CHS: 55.1), flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3’H: 34.33) genes and transcription factors MYB3 (32.22), Basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH: 45.73) was induced by MeJA elicitation, whereas the maximum expression level of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL: 26.72) and UDP-glucose flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase (UFGT: 27.57) genes was obtained after P. indica culture filtrate elicitation. The P. indica elicitation also caused greatest increase in the content of gallic acid (5848 µg/g), caffeic acid (508.2 µg/g), rutin (43.5 µg/g), quercetin (341 µg/g), and apigenin (1167 µg/g) phenolic compounds.

Conclusions

This study support that elicitation of F. carica cv. Siah hairy roots can be considered as an effective biotechnological method for improved phenolic/flavonoid compounds production, and of course this approach requires further research.
Multi-trait index: selection and recommendation of superior black bean genotypes as new improved varieties
Authors: Ambrósio Moisés , Daher Rogério Figueiredo , Santos Raiane Mariani , Santana Josefa Grasiela Silva , Vidal Ana Kesia Faria , Nascimento Maxwel Rodrigues , Leite Cleudiane Lopes , de Souza Alexandre Gomes , Freitas Rafael Souza , Stida Wanessa Francesconi , Farias João Esdras Calaça , de Souza Filho Benedito Fernandes , Melo Leonardo Cunha , dos Santos Paulo Ricardo
Published: June 2024

Common bean provides diet rich in vitamins, fiber, minerals, and protein, which could contribute into food security of needy populations in many countries. Developing genotypes that associate favorable agronomic and grain quality traits in the common bean crop could increase the chances of adopting new cultivars black bean. In this context, the present study aimed at selection of superior black bean lines using multi-variate indexes, Smith-Hazel-index, and genotype by yield*trait biplot analysis. These trials were conducted in Campos dos Goytacazes - RJ, in 2020 and 2021. The experimental design used was randomized blocks, with 28 treatments and three replications. The experimental unit consisted of four rows 4.0 m long, spaced at 0.50 m apart, with a sowing density of 15 seeds per meter. The two central rows were used for the evaluations. The selection of superior genotypes was conducted using the multiple trait stability index (MTSI), multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI), multi-trait index based on factor analysis and genotype-ideotype distance (FAI-BLUP), Smith-Hazel index, and Genotype by Yield*Trait Biplot (GYT). The multivariate indexes efficiently selected the best black bean genotypes, presenting desirable selection gains for most traits. The use of multivariate indexes and GYT enable the selection of early genotypes with higher grain yields. These lines G9, G13, G17, G23, and G27 were selected based on their performance for multiple traits closest to the ideotype and could be recommended as new varieties.
The association of right ventricular-pulmonary arterial coupling and pulmonary vascular resistance in adult patients with uncorrected atrial septal defect
Authors: Cool Charlotte Johanna , Khalid Achmad Fitrah , Sukmadi Norman , Akbar Mohammad Rizki , Setiabudiawan Budi , Rahayuningsih Sri Endah
Published: June 2024

Background

Atrial septal defects (ASD) are the most common type of adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) associated with a high risk developing of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). ASD closure is not recommended in patients with PAH and Pulmonary Vascular Resistance (PVR) ≥ 5 Wood Unit (WU). Noninvasive methods have been proposed to measure PVR; however, their accuracy remains low. Right Ventricle (RV) - Pulmonary Artery (PA) coupling is defined as the ability of the RV to adapt to high-resistance conditions. Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (TAPSE)/estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure (ePASP) calculation using echocardiography is a noninvasive technique that has been proposed as a surrogate equation to evaluate RV-PA coupling. Currently, no research has demonstrated a relationship between RV-PA coupling and PVR in patients with ASD.

Methods

The study participants were consecutive eligible patients with ASD who underwent right heart catheterization (RHC) and echocardiography at Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung. Both the procedures were performed on the same day. RV-PA Coupling, defined as TAPSE/ePASP > 0.31, was assessed using echocardiography. The PVR was calculated during RHC using the indirect Fick method.

Results

There were 58 patients with ASD underwent RHC and echocardiography. Among them, 18 had RV/PA Coupling and 40 had RV/PA Uncoupling. The PVR values were significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.000). Correlation test between TAPSE/ePASP with PVR showed moderate negative correlation (r= -0.502, p = 0.001). TAPSE/ePASP ≤ 0.34 is the cutoff point to predict PVR > 5 WU with sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity 63.6%.

Conclusion

This study showed a moderate negative correlation between TAPSE/ePASP and PVR. TAPSE/ePASP ≤ 0.34 could predict PVR > 5 WU with good sensitivity.
The association of a frailty index derived from laboratory tests and vital signs with clinical outcomes in critical care patients with septic shock: a retrospective study based on the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Ding Huafeng , Li Xiangquan , Zhang Xianjiang , Li Jiaqiong , Li Qinfeng
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Frailty is a vulnerable state to stressors due to the loss of physiological reserve as a result of multisystem dysfunction. The physiological and laboratory-based frailty index (FI-Lab), depending on laboratory values and vital signs, is a powerful tool to capture frailty status. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between FI-Lab and in-hospital mortality in patients with septic shock.

Methods

Baseline data for patients with sepsis in the intensive care unit were retrieved from the Critical Care Medicine Database (MIMIC-IV, v2.2). The primary outcome was mortality during hospitalization. The propensity score matching (PSM) method was used to analyze the basic conditions during hospitalization between groups.The FI-Lab was analysed for its relationship with in-hospital mortality using logistic regression according to continuous and categorical variables, respectively, and described using the restricted cubic spline (RCS). Survival was compared between groups using Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves. Subgroup analyses were used to improve the stability of the results.

Results

A total of 9219 patients were included. A cohort score of 1803 matched patients was generated after PSM. The analyses showed that non-surviving patients with septic shock in the ICU had a high FI-Lab index (P<0.001). FI-Lab, whether used as a continuous or categorical variable, increased with increasing FI-Lab and increased in-hospital mortality (P<0.001).Subgroup analyses showed similar results. RCS depicts this non-linear relationship. KM analysis shows the cumulative survival time during hospitalisation was significantly lower as FI-Lab increased (log-rank test, P<0.001).

Conclusion

Elevated FI-Lab is associated with increased in-hospital mortality in patients with septic shock.
Integrated multi-omics analyses revealed the association between rheumatoid arthritis and colorectal cancer: MYO9A as a shared gene signature and an immune-related therapeutic target
Authors: Zhan Zhi-Qing , Huang Ze-Min , Lan Qi-Wen , Luo Yu-Hua , Li Jia-Xin , Zheng Ya-Fang , Chen Ying-Zhou , Chen Pei-Zhen , Luo Tian-Ye , Sun Baoqing , Cheng Zhangkai J
Published: June 2024

Background

Our study aims to explore the relationship, shared gene signature, and the underlying mechanisms that connect rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to assess the causality between RA and CRC. Summary statistic data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) leveraging eQTL data was employed to identify the CRC-related causal genes. Integrated analyses of single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing were employed to comprehensively investigate the shared gene signature and potential mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of both RA and CRC. Predictive analysis of the shared hub gene in CRC immunotherapy response was performed. Pan-cancer analyses were conducted to explore the potential role of MYO9A in 33 types of human tumors.

Results

MR analysis suggested that RA might be associated with a slight increased risk of CRC (Odds Ratio = 1.04, 95% Confidence Interval = 1.01–1.07, P = 0.005). SMR analysis combining transcriptome analyses identified MYO9A as a causal gene in CRC and a shared gene signature in both RA and CRC. MYO9A may contribute to tumor suppression, while downregulation of MYO9A may impact CRC tumorigenesis by disrupting epithelial polarity and architecture, resulting in a worse prognosis in CRC. Additionally, MYO9A shows promise as a powerful predictive biomarker for cancer prognosis and immunotherapy response in CRC. Pan-cancer analyses demonstrated MYO9A may have a protective role in the occurrence and progression of various human cancers.

Conclusion

RA might be associated with a slight increased risk of CRC. MYO9A is a shared gene signature and a potential immune-related therapeutic target for both CRC and RA. Targeting the MYO9A-mediated loss of polarity and epithelial architecture could be a novel therapeutic approach for CRC.
Nutrient deficiency patterns and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in older adults with hypertension: a latent class analysis
Authors: Sun YuJiao , Zhang HuanRui , Qi GuoXian , Tian Wen
Published: June 2024

Background

Previous researches examining the impact of dietary nutrition on mortality risk have mainly focused on individual nutrients, however the interaction of these nutrients has not been considered. The purpose of this study was to identify of nutrient deficiencies patterns and analyze their potential impact on mortality risk in older adults with hypertension.

Methods

We included participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) study. The latent class analysis (LCA) was applied to uncover specific malnutrition profiles within the sample. Risk of the end points across the phenogroups was compared using Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard regression model. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the influencing factors of specific malnutrition profiles.

Results

A total of 6924 participants aged 60 years or older with hypertension from NHANES 2003–2014 was followed until December 31, 2019 with a median follow-up of 8.7 years. Various nutrients included vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, fiber, folate, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, and selenium, and LCA revealed 4 classes of malnutrition. Regarding all-cause mortality, “Nutrient Deprived” group showed the strongest hazard ratio (1.42 from 1.19 to 1.70) compared with “Adequate Nutrient” group, followed by “Inadequate Nutrient” group (1.29 from 1.10 to 1.50), and “Low Fiber, Magnesium, and Vit E” group (1.17 from 1.02 to 1.35). For cardiovascular mortality, “Nutrient Deprived” group showed the strongest hazard ratio (1.61 from 1.19 to 2.16) compared with “Adequate Nutrient” group, followed by “Low Fiber, Magnesium, and Vit E” group (1.51 from 1.04 to 2.20), and “Inadequate Nutrient” group (1.37 from 1.03 to 1.83).

Conclusions

The study revealed a significant association between nutrients deficiency patterns and the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in older adults with hypertension. The findings suggested that nutrients deficiency pattern may be an important risk factor for mortality in older adults with hypertension.
The relationship between comprehensive geriatric assessment on the pneumonia prognosis of older adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Dongmei , Jiang Hongjuan , Sun Yanhong , Chi Xiangyu , Zhang Xuan , Li Hongwen
Published: June 2024

Background

The mortality of pneumonia in older adults surpasses that of other populations, especially with the prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Under the influence of multiple factors, a series of geriatric syndromes brought on by age is one of the main reasons for the poor prognosis of pneumonia. This study attempts to analyze the impact of geriatric syndrome on the prognosis of pneumonia.

Methods

This is a prospective cross-sectional study. Patients over 65 years old with COVID-19 and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-negative community-acquired pneumonia (SN-CAP) were included in the research. General characteristics, laboratory tests, length of stay (LOS), and comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) were collected. Multivariate regression analysis to determine the independent predictors of the severity, mortality, and LOS of COVID-19. At the same time, the enrolled subjects were divided into three categories by clustering analysis of 10 CGA indicators, and their clinical characteristics and prognoses were analyzed.

Results

A total of 792 subjects were included in the study, including 204 subjects of SN-CAP (25.8%) and 588 subjects (74.2%) of COVID-19. There was no significant difference between non-severe COVID-19 and SN-CAP regarding mortality, LOS, and CGA (P > 0.05), while severe COVID-19 is significantly higher than both (P < 0.05). The Barthel Index used to assess the activities of daily living was an independent risk factor for the severity and mortality of COVID-19 and linearly correlated with the LOS (P < 0.05). The cluster analysis based on the CGA indicators divided the geriatric pneumonia patients into three groups: Cluster 1 (n = 276), named low ability group, with the worst CGA, laboratory tests, severity, mortality, and LOS; Cluster 3 (n = 228), called high ability group with the best above indicators; Cluster 2 (n = 288), named medium ability group, falls between the two.

Conclusion

The Barthel Index indicates that decreased activities of daily living are an independent risk factor for the severity, mortality, and LOS of geriatric COVID-19. Geriatric syndrome can help judge the prognosis of pneumonia in older adults.
Three-dimensional evaluation of dentigerous cysts in the Turkish subpopulation
Authors: Eninanç İlknur , Mavi Esra
Published: June 2024

Background

To investigate the radiological and demographic features, types, distribution, and treatment methods of dentigerous cysts (DC).

Methods

Panoramic radiographs and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of patients diagnosed with DC based on biopsy results between January 2020 and December 2023 were examined. In patients from different age groups, the numbers, types and locations, and radiological features of DCs, associated changes in surrounding tissues, and treatment methods used were reviewed.

Results

Among 95 patients with DC (66 males, 29 females), sex and age distributions were comparable between those with a single cyst (n = 86) and those with two cysts (n = 9). Of 104 DCs, 44 were central, 38 were lateral, and 22 were circumferential. DC types were not significantly affected by sex, age group, or anatomical location. Circumferential DCs often caused displacement of the mandibular canal inferiorly. While enucleation was preferred for the treatment of central DCs, circumferential DCs were treated with marsupialization.

Conclusions

In this study, which is the first to evaluate the DC types on CBCT images, the central type was the most common. Circumferential DCs were mostly treated with marsupialization. CBCT imaging can assist in determining DC types, and may provide guidance for treatment planning.
Identifying training needs of practising community pharmacists in Jordan—a self-assessment study
Authors: Alnahar Saja A. , Darwish Rula M. , Al Qasas Shatha Z. , Al Shabani Mayada M. , Bates Ian
Published: June 2024

Background

Being the professional membership body for pharmacists in Jordan, the Jordan Pharmacists Association (JPA) took the initiative to establish a training centre for practising pharmacists. This study aims to identify the self-assessed training priorities of community pharmacists in Jordan.

Methods

In the period between August and October 2022, an online self-administered questionnaire was distributed using a variety of participants’ identification and recruitment approaches. The questionnaire targeted currently practising community pharmacists. Data were analysed descriptively and inferentially.

Results

In total, 470 community pharmacists participated in this study. Of 470 participants, 307 (65.3%) were employees, of which 206 were full-time employees. Results showed that only 97 (21%) had access to an in-house training programme or scheme. Self-assessment of training needs highlighted differences between the three competencies clusters. While administrative and managerial skills and competencies were more frequently prioritised on average than the other two clusters, interpersonal and communication skills were needed the least. Evidence showed a significant difference between female and male participants regarding the need for training addressing maternity and early childhood health training issues. Lastly, the role-based comparison showed that, compared to pharmacy owners, employees had a significantly higher need for training related to bookkeeping and taxation returns preparation and how to handle and manage records of narcotic and controlled medicines.

Conclusions

If training and development programmes are tailored to address specific needs in administrative, clinical, and interpersonal competencies, community pharmacists have the potential to enhance public health, expand their role, provide patient-centred care, and support the national healthcare system.