bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Response to Omalizumab in Chronic Urticaria Based on Biomarkers
Authors: Noshela Ghazanfar Misbah , Thomsen Simon Francis
Published: November 2022

Chronic urticaria (CU) is characterised by intense recurrent itch, wheals, and/or angioedema, persisting for >6 weeks. CU can be subdivided into chronic spontaneous urticaria and chronic inducible urticaria; the latter usually appears with physical stimuli, such as heat, cold, pressure, and sunlight. The recommended treatment for CU is non-sedating oral antihistamines, administered up to four times a day. The monoclonal antibody omalizumab (anti-IgE) is recommended as an add-on therapy for patients with antihistamine-refractory CU. The fluctuating nature of urticaria symptoms and varying response to omalizumab often makes it difficult to predict the response to omalizumab; this often leads to individualised dosage regimens for CU patients. However, being able to predict the response to omalizumab treatment would lead to an improvement in dosage regimens and treatment plans in the clinical setting. Several studies have investigated potential CU biomarkers; however, no reliable biomarkers have been discovered that can be used to assess the treatment response to omalizumab in the clinic. Some potential biomarkers, such as plasma D-dimer, serum total IgE levels, the basophil histamine release assay, the autologous serum skin test, and the basophil activation test, have been suggested for predicting disease activity and response to omalizumab but are not implemented routinely in clinical practice. This paper presents an overview of the various biomarkers associated with response to omalizumab in CU.
Psoriasis: From Gene to Clinic
Authors: Cash Nicole
Published: November 2022

Substantial developments over the last decade have advanced our knowledge and understanding of psoriasis, from both a basic scientific and clinical perspective. Identification of immunopathological mechanisms involved in disease development and the elucidation of cellular processes have been, and continue to be, integral in the development of novel therapies and therapeutic approaches. Significant progress has been made in highlighting key biological pathways, some of which are shared with other autoimmune diseases. Evidence suggests a relationship between psoriasis and specific comorbidities, some with a confirmed biological basis and others, such as obesity, with intriguing but complex links to psoriasis. A new class of biologic agents selectively targeting interleukin (IL)-23p19 have shown additional efficacy in improving disease severity, even compared with those targeting both IL-12 and IL-23, highlighting the significance of IL-23 in psoriasis.1 The true relationships between comorbid conditions in patients with psoriasis and determination of the mechanisms involved will be important in the long-term management of the condition.
Family Models of Diabetes Self-Management Education: The Current Evidence and Critical Gaps in Knowledge
Authors: McElfish Pearl A. , Post Jennifer , Rowland Brett , Long Christopher R.
Published: November 2022

This commentary outlines the effectiveness of family-centred models of diabetes self-management education (Family-DSME) interventions and identifies five considerable gaps in the available literature that are keeping Family-DSME interventions from being translated into clinical practice. These include: (a) confounding effects of including cultural tailoring in many Family-DSME studies; (b) variations in duration and dosage of Family-DSME interventions; (c) most studies failing to assess the effects of Family-DSME on the included family members; (d) lack of cost-effectiveness data; and (e) lack of implementation research on Family-DSME interventions. It is crucial that clinical researchers focus efforts on filling the gaps in knowledge that constrain Family-DSME from being translated into clinical practice.
Effect of Microstructure on Strain Aging and Hydrogen Embrittlement Behavior of Bake Hardening Steels
Authors: Kim Jae-Yun , Ko Seok-Woo , Hwang Byoungchul
Published: November 2022

The strain aging and hydrogen embrittlement behavior of two bake hardening (BH) steels with different microstructures were investigated in this study. The single-phase BH steel was composed of fully ferrite, while the dual-phase BH steel consisted of ferrite and 3 % martensite. The BH index and aging index (AI) of the two BH steels were measured to compare the effect of microstructure on strain aging behavior. As a small amount of martensite is present in the dual-phase BH steel, the BH index value of the dual-phase BH steel was higher than that of single-phase BH steel, and the AI showed a relatively low value. After the BH steels were pre-strained up to 20% and electrochemically pre-charged with hydrogen, on the other hand, a slow strain rate test (SSRT) was carried out to examine the effect of pre-strain on hydrogen embrittlement behavior. The silver decoration technique and thermal desorption analysis (TDA) were performed to understand the hydrogen embrittlement mechanism from the standpoint of hydrogen trapping. Regardless of pre-strain the dual-phase BH steel had lower hydrogen embrittlement resistance than the single-phase BH steel because martensite formed in the dual-phase BH steel acts as a reversible hydrogen trap site. The hydrogen embrittlement resistance of the two BH steels decreased with increasing amount of pre-strain which increases dislocation density. Based on these results, it can be said that the introduction of martensite and dislocation in BH steels have a negative impact on hydrogen embrittlement resistance.
Clinical and physiological aspects of bruxism and its rational pharmacotherapy
Authors: Sokolova M. G. , Sotnikova D. A. , Sotnikov N. S. , Stakelberg O. Yu. , Kokorenko V. L. , Vasilenko A. V.
Published: November 2022

Objective. Clinical-neurophysiological and neuropsychological examination of patients with bruxism was conducted to determine the functional condition of the peripheral and central trigeminal nerve and to justify the combined therapy.

Materials and methods. 26 patients (14 women and 12 men) aged 20 to 50 years with complaints and typical neurological symptoms of bruxism were examined. The control group consisted of 30 volunteers in the age from 24 to 35 years, who underwent a comprehensive examination as part of a medical check-up, who did not have severe somatic, neurological or mental diseases and did not have complaints of impaired function of the masticatory muscles. Clinical and neurological, electrophysiological and neuropsychological diagnostic methods were used in the trial. Quantitative sensory testing was performed using TSA II device (Medoc, Israel), and temperature sensitivity thresholds were determined using the Marstok method on symmetrical facial areas according to the Zelder zones. Diagnostics of the functional condition of the masticatory muscles was carried out using a computer neuroelectromyograph M-Test ‘DX-Systems’ and a computer system for analyzingelectromyographic records. Electroencephalography (EEG) was performed using 16-channel computer electroencephalography system. C. D. Spielberger scale adapted by Yu. L. Khanin (C. D. Spielberger, 2010) was used to determine the level of anxiety. The results were processed using Statistica and Microsoft Excel 2015 programs.

Results. Patients with bruxism had a high level of personal anxiety, which was found in 73 % of the participants. Determination of the thresholds of cold sensitivity on the faces of patients with bruxism showed a lower threshold of cold sensitivity in the lateral parts and a higher threshold in the oral parts. Electromyography of masticatory muscles showed an increase in the duration of mastication period, a decrease in the masticatory rhythm, a decrease in masticatory efficiency, and irrational functioning of the masticatory muscles of varying severity in the patients of the examined group. Assessment of brain biopotentials showed an increase in the ascending activating effects of nonspecific median brain structures (72 %). The data obtained helped to obtain a comprehensive assessment of functional condition of the trigeminal nerve in patients with bruxism and to justify pharmaceutical therapy aimed at both the muscular apparatus (muscle relaxants) and the peripheral and central parts of the trigeminal nerve (antiepileptic drugs) in combination with a medicine that has a stabilizing effect on the functional condition of neurons and normalization of bioelectric processes in the central nervous system (correctors of metabolism).
Influence of exogenous NAA in Calophyllum inophyllum micro-environment seeds germination
Authors: Putri Asri Insiana , Haryjanto Liliek , Kartikawati Noor Khomsah , Nirsatmanto Arif , Sunarti Sri , Herawan Toni , Lestari Fajar , Rimbawanto Anto
Published: November 2022

Throughout Indonesia, more than a hundred million ha of degraded forest and lands are still to be rehabilitated. High-quality tree seedlings are a key component of landscape restoration. The limited supply of quality seeds has been an obstacle so far. C. inophyllum is a tropical tree species that grow well under harsh environmental conditions. It can be used as an alternative tree species for degraded land rehabilitation. We present an efficient and reproducible protocol for improving seed quality with exogenous NAA hormones. The Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium was supplemented with NAA hormones (0 mg/l, 1 mg/l, 2 mg/l, and 3 mg/l of NAA) for observation of the influence of the exogenous NAA on seeds germination in micro-environment controlled. After seven weeks of incubation in axenic culture, the highest concentration of NAA (3 mg/l) showed the fastest average seed-breaking time of C. inophyllum (2.0 weeks), After three weeks, the roots were nearly five times longer (4.9 ± 0.1 cm) than the control (1.1± 0.1 cm), and the shoots were nearly three times longer (4.9 ± 0.1 cm) than the control (1.1± 0.1 cm). This research needs to be tested on a larger scale of cultivation.Di seluruh Indonesia, lebih dari seratus juta ha hutan dan lahan terdegradasi masih harus direhabilitasi. Bibit pohon berkualitas tinggi adalah komponen kunci dari restorasi lanskap. Terbatasnya pasokan benih berkualitas menjadi kendala selama ini. C. inophyllum adalah spesies pohon tropis yang tumbuh dengan baik di bawah kondisi lingkungan yang keras. Ini dapat digunakan sebagai jenis pohon alternatif untuk rehabilitasi lahan terdegradasi. Kami menyajikan protokol yang efisien dan dapat direproduksi untuk meningkatkan kualitas benih dengan hormon NAA eksogen. Media Murashige dan Skoog (MS) dilengkapi dengan hormon NAA (0 mg/l, 1 mg/l, 2 mg/l, dan 3 mg/l NAA) untuk pengamatan pengaruh NAA eksogen terhadap perkecambahan biji di lingkungan mikro dikendalikan. Setelah tujuh minggu inkubasi dalam kultur axenic, konsentrasi NAA tertinggi (3 mg/l) menunjukkan rata-rata waktu pemecahan benih tercepat C. inophyllum (2,0 minggu), Setelah tiga minggu, akar hampir lima kali lebih panjang (4,9 ± 0,1 cm) dari kontrol (1,1± 0,1 cm), dan tunas hampir tiga kali lebih panjang (4,9 ± 0,1 cm) dari kontrol (1,1± 0,1 cm). Penelitian ini perlu diuji pada skala budidaya yang lebih besar.
PENINGKATAN MUTU DAN KUALITAS LAHAN PERTANIAN MASYARAKAT MELALUI REKAYASA KESUBURAN TANAH DAN SISTEM IRIGASI SPRINGKLER
Authors: Rakian Tresjia Corina , Hadini Hamirul , Zulfikar Zulfikar , Resman Resman , Slamet Agustono , Rustam La Ode
Published: November 2022

Mokoau Village, Kambu District, Kendari City, Southeast Sulawesi, with partners/target audiences of the Nanga-Nanga Makmur Farmer Group. The Nanga-nanga Makmur Farmer Group is a farmer group that has been established by the Kendari City Agriculture Office in 2020. The problems encountered in the farmer group include land quality in this case low soil fertility, knowledge of fertilization techniques and also minimal organic fertilizer production. In addition, agricultural waste and secondary vegetation which are widely available but have not been optimally utilized as raw materials for engineering soil fertility and nutrient sources for cultivated plants and also irrigation systems/plant watering methods, especially those who carry out manual vegetable cultivation businesses. The solutions and targets offered are conducting technical guidance and demonstration of vegetable crop cultivation plots and the manufacture of secondary vegetation-based fertilizers for soil fertility engineering, as well as transferring sprinkler irrigation system technology. The results obtained from the solutions provided are (1) improving the quality of agricultural land, especially soil fertility through the use of organic fertilizers based on secondary vegetation and irrigation systems using sprinklers, (2) increasing the knowledge and skills of farmer group members about the manufacture of fertilizer products for soil fertility engineering. and some group members also make their own at their respective homes. The results made independently were judged to have succeeded and met the requirements as organic fertilizer, (3) increased knowledge of farmer group members in improving the quality and quality of agricultural land through modification of integrated farming techniques and sprinkler model irrigation systems. Sprinkler irrigation technology has never been carried out by partner groups, so through this activity it has added new insights and new skills to increase their land productivity and also streamline water use and time and there are technological innovations carried out jointly between partner farmer group members, students KKN and supervisors are real efforts in transferring knowledge in an effort to apply agricultural technology to partner groups
Toward a New Transition Theory: Opposition Dilemmas and Countering Democratic Erosion
Authors: Somer Murat , McCoy Jennifer , Tuncel Ozlem
Published: November 2022

The recent global wave of autocratization is characterized by the incremental subversion of democracy from within by elected governments (democratic erosion). This article explains why democratic erosion is hard to reverse for opposition actors, even though it develops incrementally and often by using formally legal and democratic means. Complex causal mechanisms triggered by what we call regime uncertainty create specific dilemmas dividing opposition actors at elite and mass levels into alarmists, strategic alarmists, and cautioners. The resolution of these dilemmas takes time, learning, and creativity and there is no one-size-fits-all formula: our case studies from Venezuela and Turkey show that opposition actors often experiment and oscillate between normal and extraordinary countering strategies and between preservative and generative political goals. We also offer a preliminary discussion of how opposition actors may manage to address the dilemmas and successfully counter democratic erosion.
Estimation of Impact of Intellectual Property on Russian Federation’s Economy
Authors: Ivanova Marina , Kobylkina Polina , Tselovalnikova Evgeniya
Published: November 2022

Introduction. Currently, the most pressing task is to create an active market for intellectual property and to transform intellectual property into a source of additional income. The impact of intellectual property on the economy is determined by the volume of revenue organizations glean from payments under contracts for licensing, alienation, pledges, or commercial concession and the volume of revenue from the release of innovative products, the cost of which is partly determined by the value of rights to the products of intellectual activity. Methods. The au­thors of this article applied the methods of modeling, forecasting, and the analysis of the dynamics of statistical indicators. Results and Discus­sion. Reflecting the current state of intellectual property in Russia, offer a set of target indicators needed to assess the impact of intellectual property on the country's economy. Conclusion. The authors hope that this article will generate discussion among specialists in the field, which will lead to the finalisation of a model for evaluation indicators.
Thermosensitive hydrogel loaded with concentrated growth factors promote bone repair in segmental bone defects
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Wang Tianchang , Zhang Dahe , Li Jiayi , Yue Xiaokun , Kong Weiqing , Gu Xiaoding , Jiao Zixian , Yang Chi
Published: November 2022

Treating critical-size bone defects beyond the body’s self-healing capacity is a challenging clinical task. In this study, we investigate the effect of concentrate growth factors (CGFs) loaded Poloxamer 407 hydrogel on the viability and osteogenic differentiation potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and reconstruction of critical-size bone defects. In vitro, this CGFs-loaded thermosensitive hydrogel can significantly promote proliferation, maintain cell viability, and induce osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by up-regulating the mineralization and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, as well as gene markers, including runt-related transcription factor-2 (Runx-2), type I collagen (Col-1), osteocalcin (OCN), as well as osteopontin (OPN). In vivo, Micro-CT radiography analysis and histological detection demonstrated that the CGFs-loaded hydrogel significantly induced bone healing and reconstructed the medullary cavity structure in critical-size bone defect models. In conclusion, this strategy of transplantation of CGFs-loaded hydrogel promoted bone regeneration and prevented bone nonunion, so as to provide basis for clinical treatment for repairing critical-size bone defects.
Advanced nanomaterial for prostate cancer theranostics
Authors: Hao Bin , Wei Li , Cheng Yusheng , Ma Zhifang , Wang Jingyu
Published: November 2022

Prostate cancer (PC) has the second highest incidence in men, according to global statistical data. The symptoms of PC in the early stage are not obvious, causing late diagnosis in most patients, which is the cause for missing the optimal treatment time. Thus, highly sensitive and precise early diagnosis methods are very important. Additionally, precise therapy regimens for good targeting and innocuous to the body are indispensable to treat cancer. This review first introduced two diagnosis methods, containing prostate-specific biomarkers detection and molecular imaging. Then, it recommended advanced therapy approaches, such as chemotherapy, gene therapy, and therapeutic nanomaterial. Afterward, we summarized the development of nanomaterial in PC, highlighting the importance of integration of diagnosis and therapy as the future direction against cancer.
Comparative study of the cost and behavior of RC special moment frame buildings with drop and hidden beams subjected to seismic loads
Authors: Zúñiga-Olvera Carlos , Valverde-Burneo David , Garcia-Troncoso Natividad , Silva Christian E. , Gomez Daniel , Bompa Dan V.
Published: November 2022

This study presents a comparative analysis between two structural design ideas in the Ecuadorian construction market: hidden vs. drop beams. Due to its location in a high seismic zone, structural design considerations in Ecuador must be made with care. Therefore, to offer improved strength to seismic forces, special moment frames are the most common structural system used. However, hidden beams are popular in low story buildings because of a notion of a cheaper system, despite evidence of collapse during earthquake events. In this study we look at special moment frames using hidden type and drop type beams, in terms of cost, structural, and seismic performance. A total of 32 structural models are analyzed, out of which 16 are models of buildings containing hidden beams and another 16 are drop beams. Linear and nonlinear static analysis, nonlinear local analysis, and moment curvature analysis of the modeled structures are performed to compare their seismic behavior. The structural design is carried out based on linear static analysis to obtain the total cost of all models. Additionally, a nonlinear static pushover analysis was conducted to assess roof displacement. The evidence shows that when using hidden beams, roof displacement is 20%–55% higher than when using drop beams, despite the nearly negligible differences in terms of cost. The evidence also shows that structures with drop beams, have a 22%–28% higher nominal flexural moment than structures with hidden beams, while achieving a 27%–31% higher curvature ductility. This research shows evidence on how structures with drop beams have a better behavior in high seismic risk zones when compared to structures with hidden beams, whose use although allowed, should be limited.
Alternation of the gut microbiota in metabolically healthy obesity: An integrated multiomics analysis
Authors: Chen Han , Tang Nana , Ye Qiang , Yu Xin , Yang Ruoyun , Cheng Hong , Zhang Guoxin , Zhou Xiaoying
Published: November 2022

Background

Although the gut microbiota may be involved in obesity onset and progression, the exact association of the gut microbiota in metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) remains largely unknown.

Methods

An integrated paired-sample metagenomic analysis was conducted to investigate the gut microbial network and biomarkers of microbial species from the MHO and healthy non-obese subjects in the GMrepo database. Further explorations were performed in the MHO mice model using a multiomics analysis to detect changes in the composition and function of the intestinal microbiome and associated metabolites.

Results

In the human study, 314 matched metagenomic data were qualified for the final analysis. We identified seven significantly changed species possibly involved in MHO pathogenesis (MHO-enriched: Bacteroides vulgatus, Megamonas sp; MHO-depleted: Butyrivibrio crossotus, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Bacteroides cellulosilyticus; Eubacterium siraeum; Bacteroides massiliensis). In the murine study, we found 79 significantly-changed species which may have possible associations with the MHO phenotype. The depletion of Bacteroides cellulosilyticus was commonly recognized in the human and murine MHO phenotype. Consistent with the metagenomic data, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) revealed significantly changed gut metabolites, which may promote MHO pathogenesis by altering the amino acids and lipid metabolic pathways. In the microbe-metabolites interaction analysis, we identified certain fatty acids (Dodecanedioic acid, Arachidic Acid, Mevalonic acid, etc.) that were significantly correlated with the MHO-enriched or depleted species.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into identifying specific microbes and metabolites that may involve in the development of obesity without metabolic disorders. Future modalities for MHO intervention may be further validated by targeting these bacteria and metabolites.
Barriers, interventions, and recommendations: Improving the genetic testing landscape
Authors: Dusic E. J. , Theoryn Tesla , Wang Catharine , Swisher Elizabeth M. , Bowen Deborah J. ,   EDGE Study Team
Published: November 2022

Individual, provider, clinic, and societal level barriers have been shown to undermine the potential impact of genetic testing. The current approach in the primary care setting places an exorbitant burden on both providers and patients. Current literature provides insight into how to address barriers across multiple levels (patient, provider, clinic, system) and at multiple stages in the testing process (identification, referral, counseling, and testing) but interventions have had limited success. After outlining the current approach to genetic testing in the primary care setting, including the barriers that prevent genetic testing uptake and the methods proposed to address these issues, we recommend integrating genetic testing into routine medical care through population-based testing. Success in efforts to increase the uptake of genetic testing will not occur without significant changes to the way genetic services are delivered. These changes will not be instantaneous but are critical in moving this field forward to realize the potential for cancer risk genetic assessment to reduce cancer burden.
The feasibility of using Apple's ResearchKit for recruitment and data collection: Considerations for mental health research
Authors: Bührmann Leah , Van Daele Tom , Rinn Alina , De Witte Nele A. J. , Lehr Dirk , Aardoom Jiska Joëlle , Loheide-Niesmann Lisa , Smit Jan , Riper Heleen
Published: November 2022

In 2015, Apple launched an open-source software framework called ResearchKit. ResearchKit provides an infrastructure for conducting remote, smartphone-based research trials through the means of Apple's App Store. Such trials may have several advantages over conventional trial methods including the removal of geographic barriers, frequent assessments of participants in real-life settings, and increased inclusion of seldom-heard communities. The aim of the current study was to explore the feasibility of participant recruitment and the potential for data collection in the non-clinical population in a smartphone-based trial using ResearchKit. As a case example, an app called eMovit, a behavioural activation (BA) app with the aim of helping users to build healthy habits was used. The study was conducted over a 9-month period. Any iPhone user with access to the App Stores of The Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany could download the app and participate in the study. During the study period, the eMovit app was disseminated amongst potential users via social media posts (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn), paid social media advertisements (Facebook), digital newsletters and newspaper articles, blogposts and other websites. In total, 1,788 individuals visited the eMovit landing page. A total of 144 visitors subsequently entered Apple's App Store through that landing page. The eMovit product page was viewed 10,327 times on the App Store. With 79 installs, eMovit showed a conversion rate of 0.76% from product view to install of the app. Of those 79 installs, 53 users indicated that they were interested to participate in the research study and 36 subsequently consented and completed the demographics and the participants quiz. Fifteen participants completed the first PHQ-8 assessment and one participant completed the second PHQ-8 assessment. We conclude that from a technological point of view, the means provided by ResearchKit are well suited to be integrated into the app process and thus facilitate conducting smartphone-based studies. However, this study shows that although participant recruitment is technically straightforward, only low recruitment rates were achieved with the dissemination strategies applied. We argue that smartphone-based trials (using ResearchKit) require a well-designed app dissemination process to attain a sufficient sample size. Guidelines for smartphone-based trial designs and recommendations on how to work with challenges of mHealth research will ensure the quality of these trials, facilitate researchers to do more testing of mental health apps and with that enlarge the evidence-base for mHealth.
Updating studies of past life and ancient ecologies using defossilized organismal proxies
Authors: Johnson Erynn , Peterman David , Carter Aja
Published: November 2022

The fossil record represents the world’s largest historical dataset of biodiversity. However, the biomechanical and ecological potential of this dataset has been restricted by various unique barriers obstructing experimental study. Fossils are often partial, modified by taphonomy, or lacking modern analogs. In the past, these barriers confined many studies to descriptive and observational techniques. Fortunately, advances in computer modeling, virtual simulations, model fabrication, and physical experimentation now allow ancient organisms and their biomechanics to be studied like never before using “Defossilized Organismal Proxies” (DOPs). Although DOPs are forging new approaches integrating ecology, evolutionary biology, and bioinspired engineering, their application has yet to be identified as a unique, independent methodological approach. We believe that techniques involving DOPs will continue revolutionizing paleontology and how other related fields interact with and draw insights from life’s evolutionary history. As the field of paleontology moves forward, identifying the framework for this novel methodological development is essential to establishing best practices that maximize the scientific impact of DOP-based experiments. In this perspective, we reflect on current literature innovating the field using DOPs and establish a workflow explaining the processes of model formulation, construction, and validation. Furthermore, we present the application of DOP-based techniques for non-specialists and specialists alike. Accelerating technological advances and experimental approaches present a host of new opportunities to study extinct organisms. This expanding frontier of paleontological research will provide a more holistic view of ecology, evolution, and natural selection by breathing new life into the fossil record.
Exploring choices in higher education: Female and male first-generation students’ trajectories from study aspiration to study satisfaction in Germany
Authors: Reinhold Sarah , Holzberger Doris , Kosel Christian , Seidel Tina
Published: November 2022

Previous studies have pointed out that first-generation students, continuing-generation students and female and male students differ concerning trajectories into and through higher education regarding study program choices and satisfaction. Studies focused on single time points in students’ educational trajectories and mainly emanated from the United States. In order to facilitate a longitudinal comparison of students’ study program aspirations and choices, as well as study satisfaction and dropout intentions, we analyzed panel data from the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS), consisting of 1,694 students. We modeled the influence of gender (female, male) and generational status (first-generation, continuing-generation) with multinomial logit regression models. Results show that students’ aspirations and choices did not significantly differ concerning generational status whereas gender differences were confirmed once again. Generational status did not reveal significant differences concerning study satisfaction and dropout intentions, whereas differences concerning gender revealed that female students were significantly more satisfied with their studies than male students. Based on our findings, we point out the importance of early counseling and other support to compensate gender differences in study program aspirations and choices. Further research is needed to explore reasons for our findings showing equal aspirations and choices of first- and continuing-generation students, which are opposed to previous studies’ findings.
Magnetic resonance T1-mapping quantitatively assesses the severity of thyroid destruction in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis
Authors: Liu Jia , Chang Xiaona , Wang Qiu , Ding Xiaoyu , Jiang Tao , Wang Guang
Published: November 2022

Objective

Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) is a common organ-specific autoimmune disease. Longitudinal relaxation time mapping (T1-mapping) analyzed by magnetic resonance imaging is a new method for evaluating inflammation or fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between thyroid T1-mapping value and degree of intrathyroidal inflammation and destruction in euthyroid AIT patients.

Methods

This case-control study recruited 28 drug-naïve AIT patients and 18 healthy controls. Thyroid specimens were collected for assessing the mRNA expression of inflammatory factors and histopathologic examination. T1-mapping values were measured using a modified look-locker inversion-recovery sequence in all participants.

Results

The positive rate of pathological diagnosed AIT was only 83.3% in the AIT group diagnosed by positive TPOAb and/or TgAb and typical ultrasonic manifestations, while 7.1% of the control group was diagnosed as AIT by pathological manifestations. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed a very high diagnostic value of thyroid T1-mapping values for pathological diagnosed AIT (area under the curve was 0.950, 95%CI: 0.843 – 0.993, P < 0.001). In the patients with pathological diagnosed AIT, thyroid T1-mapping values were significantly associated with the mRNA expression of INF-γ (r = 0.343, P < 0.05), TNF-α (r = 0.352, P < 0.01), and IL-1β (r = 0.673, P < 0.01) in thyroid tissues. Moreover, histopathologic examination showed that thyroid T1-mapping values can properly reflect the degree of thyroid destruction in AIT patients.

Conclusions

Thyroid T1-mapping values had a very high diagnostic value for AIT. In euthyroid AIT patients, thyroid T1-mapping values better reflect degree of intrathyroidal inflammation and destruction.
The dose-response relationship between sex hormones and hyperuricemia in different gender: NHANES 2013-2016
Authors: Li Guo-yun , Qian Xu-dong , Ma Chun-ming , Yin Fu-zai
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To access the dose-response relationship between sex hormones and hyperuricemia (HUA), and to find the cut-off value in different gender.

Methods

9,685 participants were derived from the database of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis were applied to explore the relationship between sex hormones and HUA after adjusting for confounding factors by propensity score match (PSM). Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI.

Results

The prevalence of HUA was 15.13% in female participants and 22.30% in male participants. Logistic regression analysis showed that estradiol (E2) was independently associated with HUA for a P value of 0.003 and 0.01in female and male participants, respectively. Testosterone (T) was only independently associated with HUA in male participants (P<0.001) but not in female participants (P = 0.59). RCS analysis showed a dose-response relationship between sex hormones and HUA. The risk of HUA increased as E2 lower than 29.6pg/mL in female participants and T lower than 389.1ng/dL in male participants. E2 higher than 23.6pg/ml was an independent risk factor for HUA in male participants.

Conclusion

A dose-response relationship was found between sex hormones and HUA. The cut-off value of E2 in male and female participants was 29.6pg/mL and 23.6pg/mL, respectively, and the cut-off value of T in male participants was 389.1ng/dL. These results provide a reference for preventing HUA and hormone supplement therapy.
Impact of global value chain embedding on industrial environmental performance: An empirical study based on the countries along the “Belt and Road”
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Yuhao , Zhang Xiaohan , Huang Qingbo
Published: November 2022

Global value chain (GVC) embedding is a “Double-edged sword”. While the countries along the “Belt and Road” benefit from the dividends brought by GVC embedding, the environmental pollution caused by industrial production becomes increasingly severe due to the lack of core technology and weak research and development (R&D) capability. Environmental performance can comprehensively reflect the cleaner production level of the industry considering the interaction of various input factors. With the deepening of GVC embedding in countries along the “Belt and Road”, it is essential to improve industrial environmental performance from the perspective of GVC embedding. Based on the industrial sector data from 15 countries along the “Belt and Road” during the period from 2007 to 2020, the impacts of GVC embedding on industrial environmental performance are empirically examined in this study using the feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) and panel threshold model. The findings of this study could shed light on industrial pollution emission reduction measures through GVC embedding for the “Belt and Road” countries. Specifically, the results manifest that: 1) The increase of GVC forward embedding promotes industrial environmental performance, while the increase of GVC backward embedding has an inhibitory effect. 2) The impact of GVC position on industrial environmental performance shows a evident threshold effect with respect to the intensity of environmental regulation. In other words, when a country’s environmental regulation intensity rises continuously and crosses the threshold value, the upgrade of the GVC position will promote industrial environmental performance. 3) The effect of GVC embedding on industrial environmental performance is heterogeneous. From the perspective of cross-border times of added value, GVC backward simple embedding inhibits industrial environmental performance, while GVC backward complex embedding is promotive. From the perspective of time heterogeneity, the implementation of the “Belt and Road” Initiative has changed the impact of GVC backward embedding on environmental performance from inhibition to promotion. In the end, this paper provides policy implications for countries along the “Belt and Road” to establish a green and low-carbon circular development system and achieve the goal of industrial clean production.
Comprehensive analysis of lysine lactylation in Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: An Dong , Song Liyun , Li Ying , Shen Lili , Miao Pu , Wang Yujie , Liu Dongyang , Jiang Lianqiang , Wang Fenglong , Yang Jinguang
Published: November 2022

Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) are among the most important pests globally that transmit destructive plant viruses and infest multiple commercial crops. Lysine lactylation (Klac) is a recently discovered novel post-translational modification (PTM). We used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify the global lactylated proteome of F. occidentalis, and further enriched the identified lactylated proteins using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO). In the present study, we identified 1,458 Klac sites in 469 proteins from F. occidentalis. Bioinformatics analysis showed that Klac was widely distributed in F. occidentalis proteins, and these Klac modified proteins participated in multiple biological processes. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that Klac proteins were significantly enriched in multiple cellular compartments and metabolic pathways, such as the ribosome and carbon metabolism pathways. Two Klac proteins were found to be involved in the regulation of the TSWV (Tomato spotted wilt virus) transmission in F. occidentalis. This study provides a systematic report and a rich dataset of lactylation in F. occidentalis proteome for potential studies on the Klac protein of this notorious pest.
Impact of epistasis effects on the accuracy of predicting phenotypic values of residual feed intake in U. S Holstein cows
Authors: Liang Zuoxiang , Prakapenka Dzianis , Parker Gaddis Kristen L. , VandeHaar Michael J. , Weigel Kent A. , Tempelman Robert J. , Koltes James E. , Santos José Eduardo P. , White Heather M. , Peñagaricano Francisco , Baldwin VI Ransom L. , Da Yang
Published: November 2022

The impact of genomic epistasis effects on the accuracy of predicting the phenotypic values of residual feed intake (RFI) in U.S. Holstein cows was evaluated using 6215 Holstein cows and 78,964 SNPs. Two SNP models and seven epistasis models were initially evaluated. Heritability estimates and the accuracy of predicting the RFI phenotypic values from 10-fold cross-validation studies identified the model with SNP additive effects and additive × additive (A×A) epistasis effects (A + A×A model) to be the best prediction model. Under the A + A×A model, additive heritability was 0.141, and A×A heritability was 0.263 that consisted of 0.260 inter-chromosome A×A heritability and 0.003 intra-chromosome A×A heritability, showing that inter-chromosome A×A effects were responsible for the accuracy increases due to A×A. Under the SNP additive model (A-only model), the additive heritability was 0.171. In the 10 validation populations, the average accuracy for predicting the RFI phenotypic values was 0.246 (with range 0.197–0.333) under A + A×A model and was 0.231 (with range of 0.188–0.319) under the A-only model. The average increase in the accuracy of predicting the RFI phenotypic values by the A + A×A model over the A-only model was 6.49% (with range of 3.02–14.29%). Results in this study showed A×A epistasis effects had a positive impact on the accuracy of predicting the RFI phenotypic values when combined with additive effects in the prediction model.
“I was afraid they will be judging me and even deny me the service”: Experiences of denial and dissuasion during abortion care in Ethiopia
Authors: Bercu Chiara , Jacobson Laura E. , Gebrehanna Ewenat , Ramirez Ana Maria , Katz Anna J. , Filippa Sofía , Baum Sarah E.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Disrespect and abuse are components of poor quality abortion care. This analysis aimed to understand negative experiences of care from perspectives of abortion clients in public and private facilities in Ethiopia.

Study Design

We conducted 23 in-depth interviews with people who obtained abortion care in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia as well as Aksum and Mekele in Tigray State, Ethiopia. The interviews were coded using a priori and emergent codes and we conducted thematic analysis to understand negative interactions with providers from participant's perspectives.

Results

Participants experienced denial of abortion services along their pathway to care and attempts by providers to dissuade them prior to providing an abortion. Underlying both the denial and the dissuasion were reports of disrespect and condemnation from providers. Participants described how providers doubted or forced them to justify their reasons for having an abortion, stigmatized them for seeking multiple abortions or later abortions, and ascribed misinformation about abortion safety. Despite reports of denial, dissuasion, and disrespect, abortion clients generally felt that providers had their best interest at heart and were grateful for having access to an abortion.

Conclusions

Participants in Ethiopia experienced providers as gatekeepers to legal abortion services, facing disrespect and judgment at facilities where they sought care. Interventions aimed at increasing awareness of abortion laws such that clients understand their rights and values clarification interventions for providers could help reduce barriers to accessing care and improve the quality of abortion services.
Fossilized diatoms as indirect indicators of the origin of carbon stored in intertidal flats
Authors: El-Hacen El-Hacen M. , Mens Ties , Bouma Tjeerd J. , Piersma Theunis , Leroy Suzanne A.G. , Olff Han , Sangiorgi Francesca
Published: November 2022

Coastal systems store enormous carbon quantities in their sediment, which originates from various autochthonous and allochthonous sources. Carbon fluxes in coastal ecosystems have a strong effect on the recipient food-webs and carbon emission offsets. Yet, the relative importance of autochthonous vs. allochthonous C inputs to coastal carbon budget is still challenging to identify. Here, we combine diatoms preserved in the sediment with geochemical analyses to identify the sources of carbon stored in Africa’s largest intertidal seagrass beds at Banc d’Arguin, Mauritania. The area lies between an active ocean upwelling and the ‘Sahara-dust hotspot’ systems. The extensive seagrass beds of the area are thus expected to receive C from these neighboring systems in addition to producing C in-situ. Three sediment cores (50 cm) were collected at three intertidal sites with different hydrodynamic regimes, and analyzed for diatom composition, total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and carbon isotopic signatures (δ13C). Diatom taxa are grouped into three guilds: (1) benthic (epiphyte, epipelon, and epipsammon), (2) planktonic, and (3) freshwater. Benthic diatoms are considered to be autochthonous, while typical oceanic and freshwater diatoms are considered to be allochthonous. Benthic diatoms are the most diverse and abundant group, while allochthonous freshwater (i.e., dust imported) and typical upwelling (i.e., tidal imported) taxa ranked last in both abundance and species’ richness. Structure equation modelling shows that variation in the stored carbon is best explained by the total abundance of diatoms and guild composition. We conclude that the C stored in the intertidal seagrass beds of Banc d’Arguin is predominantly autochthonous. Our method provides an effective way to identify historical carbon sources in coastal systems.
Mesoscale eddies in the southwestern tropical Atlantic
Authors: Dossa Alina N. , da Silva Alex Costa , Hernandez Fabrice , Aguedjou Habib M. A. , Chaigneau Alexis , Araujo Moacyr , Bertrand Arnaud
Published: November 2022

The southwestern tropical Atlantic is a region of complex ocean dynamic where originates the strong western boundary current system composed of North Brazil current and North Brazil undercurrent. The region includes a variety of features including the Atoll das Rocas (AR) and Fernando de Noronha (FN) ridge that may favour mesoscale eddy dynamics. However, origin, occurrence and characteristics of mesoscale eddies were still not described in the region. Using satellite altimetry data from 1993 to 2018 off Northeast Brazil (37-25°W; 13-1°S), we reconstruct eddy trajectories and analyse the main eddy surface characteristics (e.g., size, amplitude, polarity) and their spatiotemporal variations. The study reveals two distinct dynamic regions before quantifying mesoscale eddies characteristics. Approximately 2000 mesoscale eddies crossed the region during the study period, among which 76% were generated inside the region, with amplitudes and radii ranging between 1 and 2 cm and 25 and 205 km, respectively. Eddies are preferentially formed between August and September and propagate westward. In the region around the FN Archipelago (36-26°W; 6-1°S), the formation of cyclonic eddies is likely favoured by barotropic instabilities of surface currents and the wind stress curl. On the other hand, in the south of the region (36-26°W; 12-8°S), eddies formation is likely associated with the barotropic instabilities, wind stress curl and the meandering of surface currents. Based on vertical temperature and salinity profiles from Argo floats’ data, we determined that in average, the core of cyclonic eddies is centred at ~ 130 m (140 m) in the northern (southern) region while the core of anticyclonic eddies is centred at ~90 m (125 m) in the northern (southern) region. Moreover, mesoscale eddies formed in the tropical Atlantic do not connect the eastern tropical Atlantic and northeast Brazil.