bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging comparative analysis of familial and sporadic gout in Chinese men by multijoint ultrasonography
Authors: Wen Wen , Ma Liwen , Dang Wantai , Lei Ping , Hu Jing , Liu Jian
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to compare the imaging features of bilateral knees, ankles, and the first metatarsophalangeal joint using high-frequency ultrasonography in male patients with familial and sporadic primary gout and sought to elucidate the relationship between the presence of tophi and various clinical indicators.

Method

Male patients with primary gouty arthritis (GA) in the acute phase presenting to the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College from November 2020 to June 2022 were enrolled and classified into familial and sporadic gout groups. Comparative analyses of their clinical data and ultrasonographic imaging findings of the knees, ankles, and first metatarsophalangeal joints were performed between the groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, as well as receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, were conducted to determine the effectiveness of significant factors in the prediction of tophi.

Result

In comparison to male patients with sporadic gout, those with familial primary gout exhibited lower age, body mass index, disease duration, and serum uric acid (SUA) levels. However, they demonstrated higher incidences of tophi and bone erosion (54.6% in familial gout vs. 35.1% in sporadic gout, p < 0.05; 71.2% in familial gout vs. 48.1% in sporadic gout, p < 0.05, respectively), with a greater prevalence of tophi in the right first metatarsophalangeal joint (44.2% in familial gout vs. 32.3% in sporadic gout, p < 0.05). Independent risk factors for tophi included family history (OR = 6.712), age (OR = 1.049), disease duration (OR = 1.134), and SUA levels (OR = 1.006). ROC analysis yielded an area under the curve of 0.883 (p < 0.05) for predicting joint tophi using these factors.

Conclusion

Male patients with familial primary GA in the acute phase experienced earlier onset, shorter disease duration compared to those with sporadic gout. They also had more affected joints, more frequent and a wider distribution of tophi, especially in the right first metatarsophalangeal joint. Family history, age, disease duration, and SUA levels are predictive of tophi formation.
Efficacy and intrarenal pressure analysis of flexible and navigable suction ureteral access sheaths with flexible ureteroscopy in modified surgical positions for 2–6 cm upper urinary tract stones: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Bai Junjie , Shangguan Tong , Zou Gaoyu , Liu Liangguang , Xue Xiyun , Lin Jun , Ye Yushi , Ruan Xiuwu , Li Yongbin , Yang Shengzeng , Chi Yangjian , Nian Yongqiang , Chen Xingxiang , Liu Rong , Cai Weizhong , Zhu Shaoxing , Chen Jianhui
Published: November 2024

This multicenter retrospective study aimed to assess the efficacy, intrarenal pressure (IRP), and complications of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) using a flexible and navigable suction ureteral access sheaths (FANS-UAS) in the reverse Trendelenburg lithotomy position (RTLP) for treating kidney and upper ureteral stones measuring 2–6 cm. Conducted at six medical centers in Fujian Province from 2022 to 2024, the study included 231 patients with a median stone size of 26 mm. The immediate stone-free rate (ISFR) was 90.48%, while the SFR at postoperative day 30 was 95.67%. Only two patients developed postoperative fever, two patients had ureteral laceration and most experienced mild pain. Although surgical time increased with stone size, factors such as sex, infundibulopelvic angle (IPA), and stone density had little effect on duration, and there was no significant difference between ISFR and 30-day SFR. Importantly, all IRP measurements remained within normal limits. These findings suggest that RIRS with FANS-UAS in RTLP is a safe and effective approach for managing upper urinary tract stones of 2–6 cm, especially in 2–4 cm stones.
Enhancing carrot (Daucus carota var. sativa Hoffm.) plant productivity with combined rhizosphere microbial consortium
Authors: Zhu Liping , Zhang Peiqiang , Ma Shunan , Yu Quan , Wang Haibing , Liu Yuexuan , Yang Song , Chen Yanling
Published: November 2024

Background

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are an integral part of agricultural practices due to their roles in promoting plant growth, improving soil conditions, and suppressing diseases. However, researches on the PGPR in the rhizosphere of carrots, an important vegetable crop, is relative limited. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and characterize PGPR strains from the rhizosphere soil of greenhouse-grown carrots, with a focus on their potential to stimulate carrot growth.

Methods

Through a screening process, 12 high-efficiency phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria, one nitrogen-fixing strain, and two potassium-solubilizing strains were screened. Prominent among these were Bacillus firmus MN3 for nitrogen fixation ability, Acinetobacter pittii MP41 for phosphate solubilization, and Bacillus subtilis PK9 for potassium-solubilization. These strains were used to formulate a combined microbial consortium, N3P41K9, for inoculation and further analysis.

Results

The application of N3P41K9, significantly enhanced carrot growth, with an increase in plant height by 17.1% and root length by 54.5% in a pot experiment, compared to the control group. This treatment also elevated alkaline-hydrolyzable nitrogen levels by 72.4%, available phosphorus by 48.2%, and available potassium by 23.7%. Subsequent field trials confirmed the efficacy of N3P41K9, with a notable 12.5% increase in carrot yields. The N3P41K9 treatment had a minimal disturbance on soil bacterial diversity and abundance, but significantly increased the prevalence of beneficial genera such as Gemmatimonas and Nitrospira. Genus-level redundancy analysis indicated that the pH and alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen content were pivotal in shaping the bacterial community composition.

Discussion

The findings of this study highlight the feasibility of combined microbial consortium in promoting carrot growth, increasing yield, and enriching the root environment with beneficial microbes. Furthermore, these results suggest the potential of the N3P41K9 consortium for soil amelioration, offering a promising strategy for sustainable agricultural practices.
The microbiota: a key regulator of health, productivity, and reproductive success in mammals
Authors: Khan Ibrar Muhammad , Nassar Nourhan , Chang Hua , Khan Samiullah , Cheng Maoji , Wang Zaigui , Xiang Xun
Published: November 2024

The microbiota, intensely intertwined with mammalian physiology, significantly impacts health, productivity, and reproductive functions. The normal microbiota interacts with the host through the following key mechanisms: acting as a protective barrier against pathogens, maintain mucosal barrier integrity, assisting in nutrient metabolism, and modulating of the immune response. Therefore, supporting growth and development of host, and providing protection against pathogens and toxic substances. The microbiota significantly influences brain development and behavior, as demonstrated by comprehensive findings from controlled laboratory experiments and human clinical studies. The prospects suggested that gut microbiome influence neurodevelopmental processes, modulate stress responses, and affect cognitive function through the gut-brain axis. Microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract of farm animals break down and ferment the ingested feed into nutrients, utilize to produce meat and milk. Among the beneficial by-products of gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are particularly noteworthy for their substantial role in disease prevention and the promotion of various productive aspects in mammals. The microbiota plays a pivotal role in the reproductive hormonal systems of mammals, boosting reproductive performance in both sexes and fostering the maternal–infant connection, thereby becoming a crucial factor in sustaining mammalian existence. The microbiota is a critical factor influencing reproductive success and production traits in mammals. A well-balanced microbiome improves nutrient absorption and metabolic efficiency, leading to better growth rates, increased milk production, and enhanced overall health. Additionally, it regulates key reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which are essential for successful conception and pregnancy. Understanding the role of gut microbiota offers valuable insights for optimizing breeding and improving production outcomes, contributing to advancements in agriculture and veterinary medicine. This study emphasizes the critical ecological roles of mammalian microbiota, highlighting their essential contributions to health, productivity, and reproductive success. By integrating human and veterinary perspectives, it demonstrates how microbial communities enhance immune function, metabolic processes, and hormonal regulation across species, offering insights that benefit both clinical and agricultural advancements.
Low-temperature electron transport in [110] and [100] silicon nanowires: a DFT-Monte Carlo study
Authors: Shiri Daryoush , Nekovei Reza , Verma Amit
Published: November 2024

The effects of very low temperature on the electron transport in a [110] and [100] axially aligned unstrained silicon nanowires (SiNWs) are investigated. A combination of semi-empirical 10-orbital tight-binding method, density functional theory and Ensemble Monte Carlo (EMC) methods are used. Both acoustic and optical phonons are included in the electron-phonon scattering rate calculations covering both intra-subband and inter-subband events. A comparison with room temperature (300 K) characteristics shows that for both nanowires, the average electron steady-state drift velocity increases at least 2 times at relatively moderate electric fields and lower temperatures. Furthermore, the average drift velocity in [110] nanowires is 50 percent more than that of [100] nanowires, explained by the difference in their conduction subband effective mass. Transient average electron velocity suggests that there is a pronounced streaming electron motion at low temperature which is attributed to the reduced electron-phonon scattering rates.
Development and validation of a nomogram for obesity and related factors to detect gastric precancerous lesions in the Chinese population: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Shi Chang’e , Tao Rui , Wang Wensheng , Tang Jinzhi , Dou Zhengli , Yuan Xiaoping , Xu Guodong , Liu Huanzhong , Chen Xi
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to construct a nomogram to identify patients at high risk of gastric precancerous lesions (GPLs). This identification will facilitate early diagnosis and treatment and ultimately reduce the incidence and mortality of gastric cancer.

Methods

In this single-center retrospective cohort study, 563 participants were divided into a gastric precancerous lesion (GPL) group (n=322) and a non-atrophic gastritis (NAG) group (n=241) based on gastroscopy and pathology results. Laboratory data and demographic data were collected. A derivation cohort (n=395) was used to identify the factors associated with GPLs to develop a predictive model. Then, internal validation was performed (n=168). We used the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) to determine the discriminative ability of the predictive model; we constructed a calibration plot to evaluate the accuracy of the predictive model; and we performed decision curve analysis (DCA) to assess the clinical practicability predictive model.

Results

Four –predictors (i.e., age, body mass index, smoking status, and –triglycerides) were included in the predictive model. The AUC values of this predictive model were 0.715 (95% CI: 0.665-0.765) and 0.717 (95% CI: 0.640-0.795) in the derivation and internal validation cohorts, respectively. These values indicated that the predictive model had good discrimination ability. The calibration plots and DCA suggested that the predictive model had good accuracy and clinical net benefit. The Hosmer–Lemeshow test results in the derivation and validation cohorts for this predictive model were 0.774 and 0.468, respectively.

Conclusion

The nomogram constructed herein demonstrated good performance in terms of predicting the risk of GPLs. This nomogram can be beneficial for the early detection of patients at high risk of GPLs, thus facilitating early treatment and ultimately reducing the incidence and mortality of gastric cancer.
Common biological processes and mutual crosstalk mechanisms between cardiovascular disease and cancer
Authors: Gao Hanwei , Chen Zhongyu , Yao Yutong , He Yuquan , Hu Xin
Published: November 2024

Cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are leading causes of mortality and thus represent major health challenges worldwide. Clinical data suggest that cancer patients have an increased likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, while epidemiologic studies have shown that patients with cardiovascular disease are also more likely to develop cancer. These observations underscore the increasing importance of studies exploring the mechanisms underlying the interaction between the two diseases. We review their common physiological processes and potential pathophysiological links. We explore the effects of chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and disorders of fatty acid metabolism in CVD and cancer, and also provide insights into how cancer and its treatments affect heart health, as well as present recent advances in reverse cardio-oncology using a new classification approach.
The value of multi-parameter radiomics combined with imaging features in predicting the therapeutic efficacy of HIFU treatment for uterine fibroids
Authors: Shen Li , Huang Xiao , Liu YuYao , Li QingXue , Bai ShanWei , Wang Fang , Yang Quan
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy for treating uterine fibroids by utilizing multi-sequence magnetic resonance imaging radiomic models.

Methods

One hundred and fifty patients in our hospital were randomly divided into a training cohort (n=120) and an internal test cohort (n=30), and forty-five patients from another hospital serving as an external test cohort. Radiomics features of uterine fibroids were extracted and selected based on preoperative T2-weighted imaging fat suppression(T2WI-FS)and contrast-enhanced T1WI(CE-T1WI)images, and logistic regression was used to develop the T2WI-FS, CE-T1WI, and combined T2WI-FS + CE-T1WI models, along with the radiomics–clinical model integrating radiomics features with imaging characteristics. The performance and clinical applicability of each model were assessed through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), as well as Network Readiness Index (NRI) and Integrated Discrimination Index (IDI).

Results

The AUC values of the radiomics–clinical model and the T2WI-FS + CE-T1WI model were the highest. In the training cohort, the radiomics–clinical model showed higher AUC values than the T2WI-FS + CE-T1WI model, while in the internal and external testing cohorts, the AUC values of the T2WI-FS + CE-T1WI model were higher than that of the radiomics–clinical model. DCA further demonstrated that these two models achieved the greatest net benefit. NRI and IDI analyses suggested that the T2WI-FS + CE-T1WI model had higher clinical utility.

Conclusions

Both the T2WI-FS + CE-T1WI model and the radiomics–clinical model demonstrate higher predictive value and larger net benefit compared to other models.
Parental knowledge and satisfaction with newborn hearing screening in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alothman Noura I. , Alanazi Ahmad A. , Alshenaifi Sadeem S. , Alhadhban Yara , Alateeq Salma A. , Alhwaimel Norah , Dolgum Nouf
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Parental knowledge and satisfaction are critical for evaluating the newborn hearing screening (NHS) program. No studies have assessed both parental knowledge and satisfaction with the NHS program since its launch in Saudi Arabia. The study aimed to evaluate parents' knowledge and satisfaction with the NHS program in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This study included parents of children aged 3 years or younger who had undergone NHS. A questionnaire with 23 questions in Arabic assessed knowledge and satisfaction. Knowledge-related questions were developed by a focus group, while satisfaction-related questions were derived from the Parent Satisfaction Questionnaire with a Neonatal Hearing Screening Program.

Results

A total of 796 parents participated. Overall, 92.8% reported that their newborns passed the screening, 1.6% reported that their newborns failed, and 5% were unaware of the NHS results. About 0.6% did not return for follow-up appointments due to unawareness of the need for follow-up. Only 29.6% received information about the NHS before the screening, and 44.7% reported receiving sufficient information about the results. Most parents (80.2%) were generally satisfied with the NHS program.

Conclusions

Parents in this study were generally knowledgeable and satisfied with the NHS program. However, efforts are needed to improve the NHS program's effectiveness by increasing awareness and providing sufficient information on the necessity of NHS, test results, and follow-up appointments.
Effect of fiber twist angle and non-uniform symmetric alignment on signal combiner
Authors: Yin Yuyi , Ge Tingwu , Li Guanzheng , Xue Chuang , Wang Zhiyong
Published: November 2024

Signal beam combiners play a pivotal role in enhancing the output power of fiber lasers, which have wide-ranging applications from industrial processing to medical and military uses. This paper explores the influence of fiber twist angle and non-uniform symmetric arrangement on the performance of 19 × 1 fiber signal combiners. A simulation model was developed to analyze the impact of these parameters under adiabatic tapering conditions and the principle of brightness conservation. The model allowed for a systematic investigation of how varying twist angles and non-uniform spacings affect the combiner's performance metrics, such as transmission efficiency and beam quality. The study found that an optimal balance between high transmission efficiency (up to 98.5%) and good beam quality (minimum M2 factor of 1.06) can be achieved when the twist angle is kept below 60° and the non-uniform spacing is maintained within 10–30 μm. These conditions ensure minimal degradation of the beam quality while maximizing the transmission efficiency of the combiner. These findings offer valuable insights into the optimization of signal combiner design, which is critical for advancing high-power fiber laser systems. By carefully controlling the fiber twist angle and non-uniform spacing, designers can achieve superior performance in fiber laser applications, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability of these systems. This research contributes to the broader field of optical engineering by providing a deeper understanding of the underlying principles that govern the performance of signal combiners.
Chitosan induced cold tolerance in Kobresia pygmaea by regulating photosynthesis, antioxidant performance, and chloroplast ultrastructure
Authors: Li Shuo , Sun Haoyang , Zhang Ruolin , Gao Cai , Yang Peizhi , He Xueqing , Hu Tianming
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Cold stress is the primary factor that limits the growth and development of Kobresia pygmaea in the Tibetan Plateau, China. Chitosan (CTS) has been recognized for its ability to enhance agricultural production and tolerance to stress.

Methods

This study examined the effect of treating seedlings under cold stress with chitosan.

Results and Discussion

The results demonstrated that cold stress inhibited the growth of seedlings and adversely affected the photosynthetic capacity [net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), transpiration rate (Tr), maximum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), quantum yield of photosystem II (φPSII), electron transport rate (ETR), and non-light-induced non-photochemical fluorescence quenching Y(NPQ)] and destroyed PSII and the chloroplast structure. Under regular temperatures, low concentrations of CTS (0.005% and 0.01%) inhibited the soluble protein content, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco, EC 4.1.1.39) activity, and photosynthetic capacity. However, the application of 0.015% CTS increased the levels of soluble sugar, fructose, and protein, as well as those of the levels of ions, such as iron and magnesium, chlorophyll, photosynthetic capacity, and the activities of Rubisco, superoxide dismutase, and phenylalanine amino-lyase (PAL). Under cold stress, treatment with CTS decreased the contents of starch and sucrose; improved the contents of fructose, soluble protein, and antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid and glutathione; and enhanced the photosynthesis capacity and the activities of Rubisco, chitinase, and PAL. Exogenous CTS accelerated the development of the vascular bundle, mitigated the damage to chloroplast structure induced by cold, and promoted the formation of well-organized thylakoids and grana lamellae. Additionally, CTS upregulated the expression of genes related to cold tolerance in K. pygmaea, such as KpBSK2/KpERF/KpDRE326. These findings indicate that CTS enhances the cold tolerance in K. pygmaea by improving development of the vascular bundle, increasing the accumulation of solutes and antioxidants, regulating the transformation of carbohydrates, repairing the chloroplast structure, and maintaining the photosynthetic capacity and Rubisco activity.
Tef as a case for investment in orphan crop breeding and seed systems development
Authors: Tadele Zerihun , Renou Camille , Chanyalew Solomon , Johnson-Chadwick Victoria , Osure George , Robinson Mike , Barker Ian , Klauser Dominik
Published: November 2024

Orphan crops are crops that are of substantial importance to food security and economic growth at a local or regional scale, yet lacking investment in crop improvement and seed systems development. Tef is an example of such an orphan crop. It is vital to economy and food systems in the Horn of Africa, yet investment in breeding and agronomy is very limited. Since almost 20 years, the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture has invested in tef, supporting work to both develop and disseminate improved varieties to farmers in Ethiopia. To date, this has led to the release of four improved varieties. As the project also invested in the development of seed systems for improved tef varieties, it allowed us to monitor seed production and variety adoption over time. The data obtained from seed production monitoring over 7 years and 4 varieties from both formal and informal seed systems shows a total of 1227 tons of tef seed from improved varieties delivered to farmers in Ethiopia. Assuming an average genetic gain of 0.4 tons per hectare, this suggests that the value generated to farmers and local value chains from tef breeding and seed systems development exceeds the investment by an order of at least 2.5. With this paper, we want to make a case for more long-term investment in breeding and seed systems development and stimulate replication of the approach to other orphan crops. We further want to call for a continued investment in tef crop improvement and seed systems development.
Engineering rice Nramp5 modifies cadmium and manganese uptake selectivity using yeast assay system
Authors: Inoue Junji , Teramoto Takamasa , Kazama Tomohiko , Nakamura Takahiro
Published: November 2024

Cd is a seriously hazardous heavy metal for both plants and humans and international regulations regarding Cd intake have become stricter in recent years. Three-quarters of the Cd intake comes from plant-based foods, half of which comes from cereals. Therefore, it is anticipated that the Cd uptake efficiency of cereals, including rice, a staple crop in Asia, will be reduced. Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein (Nramp) is the principal transporter involved in the uptake and translocation of metal ions in various plants. In rice, OsNramp5 is a transporter of Mn, which is an essential micronutrient for plant growth, and is responsible for Cd uptake. Although several attempts have been made to engineer the metal uptake characteristics of OsNramp5, in many cases, both Cd and Mn uptake efficiencies are impaired. Therefore, in this study, we engineered OsNramp5 to reduce Cd uptake while retaining Mn uptake efficiency for low-Cd rice production. OsNramp5 was engineered using amino acid substitution(s) at the 232nd Ala and 235th Met of OsNramp5, which have been suggested to be key residues for metal uptake efficiency and/or selectivity by structural analyses of bacterial Nramps. The metal uptake efficiency was first analyzed using a yeast model assay system. Several mutants showed less than 8.6% Cd and more than 64.1% Mn uptake efficiency compared to the original OsNramp5. The improved metal uptake characteristics were confirmed by direct measurement of the metal content in the yeast using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Notably, several mutants reduced Cd uptake efficiency to the background level while retaining more than 64.7% Mn uptake efficiency under conditions mimicking heavily polluted soils in the world. In addition, computational structural modeling suggested requirements for the spatial and chemical properties of the metal transport tunnel and metal-binding site, respectively, for Cd/Mn uptake efficiency.
LAZARUS 1 functions as a positive regulator of plant immunity and systemic acquired resistance
Authors: Chen Yue , Han Yue , Huang Weijie , Zhang Yanjun , Chen Xiaoli , Li Dongyue , Hong Yi , Gao Huhu , Zhang Kewei , Zhang Yuelin , Sun Tongjun
Published: November 2024

Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) is activated by local infection and confers enhanced resistance against subsequent pathogen invasion. Salicylic acid (SA) and N-hydroxypipecolic acid (NHP) are two key signaling molecules in SAR and their levels accumulate during SAR activation. Two members of plant-specific Calmodulin-Binding Protein 60 (CBP60) transcription factor family, CBP60g and SARD1, regulate the expression of biosynthetic genes of SA and NHP. CBP60g and SARD1 function as master regulators of plant immunity and their expression levels are tightly controlled. Although there are numerous reports on regulation of their expression, the specific mechanisms by which SARD1 and CBP60g respond to pathogen infection are not yet fully understood. This study identifies and characterizes the role of the LAZARUS 1 (LAZ1) and its homolog LAZ1H1 in plant immunity. A forward genetic screen was conducted in the sard1-1 mutant background to identify mutants with enhanced SAR-deficient phenotypes (sard mutants), leading to the discovery of sard6-1, which maps to the LAZ1 gene. LAZ1 and its homolog LAZ1H1 were found to be positive regulators of SAR through regulating the expression of CBP60g and SARD1 as well as biosynthetic genes of SA and NHP. Furthermore, Overexpression of LAZ1, LAZ1H1 and its homologs from Nicotiana benthamiana and potato enhanced resistance in N. benthamiana against Phytophthora pathogens. These findings indicate that LAZ1 and LAZ1H1 are evolutionarily conserved proteins that play critical roles in plant immunity.
Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses jointly reveal the mechanism underlying the reddening of Chimonanthus praecox stamens
Authors: Liu Bin , Wu Huafeng , Cao Yinzhu , Ma Guanpeng , Zheng Xiaowen , Zhu Haoxiang , Song Xingrong , Sui Shunzhao
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Flower characteristics are crucial ornamental and reproductive traits in Chimonanthus praecox. Over its long cultivation history, variations have been observed in the floral organs, primarily in the petals, with limited reports on stamen traits. Stamen variation, integral to the mating system, can enhance the plant’s ornamental value and directly impact its reproductive success.

Methods

This study is the first to report the phenomenon of red coloration in C. praecox stamens. Using UPLC-MS/MS, we analyzed the types and quantities of major metabolites in stamens of different colors.

Results

Our results indicated that the red coloration was primarily due to the accumulation 42 on of high levels of anthocyanins, specifically cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside and cyanidin 3-O-glucoside. Transcriptomic sequencing identified 63 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway, most showing peak expression during the bud stage. The results of the metabolite analysis and transcriptomic sequencing were similar to those of previous studies on petal reddening, suggesting a close relationship between the mechanisms of stamen and petal reddening.

Discussion

This study elucidated the mechanism of stamen reddening in C. praecox, expanding the species’ genetic resources and offering insights into color changes across floral tissue..
Emotional intelligence training among the healthcare workforce: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Powell Chris , Brown Taylor , Yap Yang , Hallam Karen , Takac Marcel , Quinlivan Tara , Xenos Sophia , Karimi Leila
Published: November 2024

Background

The healthcare sector is acknowledged as a complex and challenging field. Increasingly, research highlights the importance of healthcare workers’ internal social and emotional skills in managing their well-being and enhancing their capacity to provide patient care and support to colleagues. Emotional Intelligence (EI) has been identified as a key factor in improving the health and performance of healthcare workers, leading to the implementation of numerous programs aimed at enhancing EI.

Objective

This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of EI training interventions among healthcare workers, focusing on various intervention designs and their impact on EI improvement.

Methods

The review encompassed 17 longitudinal studies, each implementing EI training interventions for healthcare workers aged 18 and over. The studies employed a variety of research designs.

Results

All studies demonstrated an increase in EI following the intervention. However, methodological limitations within these studies might have led to an overestimation of the actual effects of the interventions.

Conclusion

While the reviewed studies indicate a positive trend in EI enhancement post-intervention, the potential overestimation of effects due to methodological flaws necessitates caution. The findings underline the need for future research to explore the optimal duration and delivery methods for EI training in healthcare settings.

Systematic review registration

The systematic review and meta-analysis have been pre-registered with PROSPERO [CRD42023393760]. Further details can be accessed at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023393760.
Expanding the boundaries: investigating the integration of contextual information across a spectrum of inter-trial variability
Authors: Qiu Ruyi , Mo Yanzhi
Published: November 2024

It is well-documented that feature integration across perception and action creates a retrievable episodic representation, known as a stimulus-response episode or an event file. Previous studies have demonstrated that a task-irrelevant stimulus, which functions as contextual information, can be integrated in various ways. In some cases, the context modulated the binding between a stimulus and a response, resulting in a configural binding structure. In other cases, the context was found to be directly bound with the response in a binary fashion. The current study examined the integration of context within a stimulus-response (S-R) episode, with a focus on the role of inter-trial variability. Specifically, the context variability was manipulated across five experimental groups, ranging from the minimum to the maximum level. The minimum-variability group maintained a consistent pattern of two context tones per block, while the maximum-variability group used a uniformly random order of eight different context tones. Intermediate groups progressively employed greater degrees of variability in the presentation of contextual stimuli. Results showed that the integration of context changed as a function of its variability level: The contextual stimuli with minimal to low level of variability did not exhibit a pattern of integration, while those with moderate to high variability were involved in a configural binding with another stimulus and the response. Only when the context exhibited maximal variability did it become directly bound with the response in a binary fashion. The current findings extend previous assumptions about saliency thresholds for stimulus integration into the realm of inter-trial variability and underscore the role of stimulus uncertainty in shaping context integration. Possible underlying mechanisms are discussed.
Knowledge and attitude toward intimate partner violence among couples: a baseline findings from cluster randomized controlled trial in rural Ethiopia
Authors: Agde Zeleke Dutamo , Magnus Jeanette H. , Assefa Nega , Wordofa Muluemebet Abera
Published: November 2024

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) continues to be a major public health issue in Ethiopia. Studies have shown that knowledge and attitudes play a crucial role in predicting IPV. There is a lack of comprehensive evidence on the extent and factors associated with knowledge and attitudes toward IPV in many developing countries, particularly in rural Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and attitudes toward IPV and associated factors among couples in Central Ethiopia.

Methods

A baseline survey involving 432 couples (432 pregnant women and 432 husbands) was conducted in July, 2023, in Hadiya Zone, Central Ethiopia. Data were collected using face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaires. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed, and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were reported.

Results

The findings revealed that 53.0% of women and 58.4% of men had good knowledge of IPV, while 56.0% of women and 65.6% of men held supportive attitudes toward IPV. Women’s knowledge of IPV was significantly associated with age (25–34 years), educational attainment (secondary and higher/college education), antenatal care (ANC) visits, and husbands’ alcohol consumption. Men’s knowledge of IPV was associated with age at marriage <20, educational attainment (secondary and college/ higher education), monogamous marriage, and alcohol consumption. Predictors of women’s attitudes toward IPV included marrying before the age of 20, partner smoking, and poor knowledge of IPV. Moreover, predictors of men’s attitudes toward IPV included younger age (15–24), monogamous marriage, alcohol consumption, and poor knowledge of IPV.

Conclusion and recommendation

The study found that more than half of couples had good knowledge of IPV, with a notable percentage also holding supportive attitudes toward it. Enhancing women’s education, changing attitudes, ANC visits, and addressing male substance use would help in increasing couples’ awareness of IPV and its consequences.
Preference for community health services in people with chronic diseases: a discrete choice experiment in China
Authors: Wang Ke , Yang Qian , Wan Lei , An Jingjing
Published: November 2024

Background

Primary healthcare policies are widely implemented globally. However, many people with chronic diseases find that community-based chronic disease services do not meet their needs. There is a critical need for more evidence on the sustainability and optimization of chronic disease management in Chinese communities, especially from the demand side. Policymakers require detailed data on the needs of chronic disease patients regarding community health services.

Methods

A discrete choice experiment was conducted to measure the preferences of people with chronic diseases. Researchers recruited participants in Sichuan Province, China, and conducted face-to-face surveys. The mixed logit model evaluated participants’ preferences for six attributes, estimating willingness to pay and relative importance, and performing subgroup analysis based on the initial model results.

Results

A total of 395 respondents participated in this study. Six attributes included all influenced the preference of people with chronic diseases for community health services. The most valued attribute for people with chronic diseases was drug accessibility (coefficient = 2.761, p < 0.001), followed by appointment referral (coefficient = 2.385, p < 0.001) and traditional Chinese medicine services (coefficient = 1.465, p < 0.001). The results were also borne out by the relative importance of attributes. Meanwhile, people with different types of chronic diseases were also most concerned about drug accessibility. There are differences in the willingness to pay for drug accessibility. Type II respondents had a higher WTP for services with high medicine accessibility (92.93 CNY) compared to Type I (67.05 CNY) and Type III (87.70 CNY) respondents.

Conclusion

This study results highlight the importance of drug accessibility, appointment referral services, and traditional Chinese medicine services in community chronic disease management. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to optimize the current management of chronic diseases in Chinese communities.
Uncharted water conflicts ahead: mapping the scenario space for Germany in the year 2050
Authors: Kosow Hannah , Brauner Simon , Brumme Anja , Hauser Wolfgang , Hölzlberger Fabian , Moschner Janina , Rübbelke Dirk , Vögele Stefan , Weimer-Jehle Wolfgang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In recent years, conflicts surrounding the use, distribution, and governance of surface water and groundwater in Germany have gained prominence in the media, on the political agenda, and in research. Increasing effects of climate change, such as heatwaves and drought but also extreme rain events and flooding, are considered to become more prominent and pressing in the future by different societal actors. However, it remains highly uncertain if and what type of conflicts related to water quantity Germany might actually face in the future (and how they will be framed). This paper addresses one dimension of this uncertainty—namely the future context uncertainty of possible resource and water governance conflicts. Our research contributes to an improved understanding of the uncertainty concerning future climatic, natural, land use related, political, economic, and other societal contexts that could impact water conflicts.

Method

We ask: What are possible coherent context scenarios for Germany in the year 2050, and how are they expected to influence future water conflicts? In an expert-based process, we apply a qualitative and systematic method of systems analysis, cross-impact balances (CIB). With CIB, we build internally consistent scenarios of possible futures and map the future scenario space.

Results and discussion

Diversity mapping with a new CIB web application of the ScenarioWizard reveals that the scenario space is rather large and diverse. The identified scenario space of n = 355 internally consistent scenarios spans four most diverse scenarios “Polycrisis,” “Economy and agriculture in crisis,” “Growth through adaptation to climate change,” and “Sustainable transformation.” Depending on the development of future contexts, the risk for future water resource and governance conflicts may unfold in various ways. We conclude that our scenario analysis provides a useful base for research and practice to address the context uncertainty of water conflicts in Germany. Our results can be used for risk assessment, to define societal framework assumptions for societal-hydrological modeling, and to develop robust and adaptive strategies and policies.
Diagnostic yield of dental radiography and digital tomosynthesis for the identification of anatomic structures in dogs
Authors: May Tanner , Lommer Milinda Jean , Arzi Boaz , Goldschmidt Stephanie Lynne , Hatcher David C. , Soltero-Rivera Maria M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of a novel imaging modality, digital tomosynthesis (DT), for identification of predefined anatomic dental and maxillomandibular structures in dogs.

Methods

DT images were compared to conventional intraoral dental radiography (DR) for the diagnostic yield regarding the presence and quality of visualization of 35 structures. DT imaging and full mouth DR were obtained on 16 canine cadaver heads and a semi-quantitative scoring system was used to characterize the ability of each imaging method to identify the anatomic structures.

Results

The results demonstrated that each imaging modality, and orientation, was superior for certain anatomic structures.

Discussion

Overall, although one modality did not prove superior to the other, digital tomosynthesis appears to be an appropriate novel tool for identification of specific anatomic structures in the dog skull.
Teaching Effectiveness; Exploring the Role of Personal Variables
Authors: Shoaib Ms. Sidra , Hanif Dr. Rubina
Published: November 2024

The current research aimed to explore the relationship of Teaching Effectiveness (TE) and personal variables i.e. age, gender, marital status, the type of school (coeducation, boys? or girls? school) and sector of school (government or private) of secondary school teachers and to adapt and validate the Students? Evaluations of Teaching Effectiveness Rating Scale (SETERS) for teachers and their students. For this correlation survey based research the data was conveniently collected from secondary school teachers (N=303) and three students per teacher (N= 909). The results of factor validation have shown that Teaching Effectiveness Self Rating Scale (TESRS) and Teaching Effectiveness Students? Rating Scale (TEStRS) are the valid instruments for the evaluation of TE. It has also been found that TE has a negative relationship with age and positive with gender (both ratings), marital status of the teachers, the type of school (students? ratings) and sector of school (self-ratings) and same results were shown in the prediction analysis except for type of school as it has come out as a non-significant predictor of TE. Furthermore, female and young adults (in both ratings), single and girls? school (students? ratings) and private school (self-ratings) teachers are more effective. The results have important implications education sector.
Job Embeddedness related to Organizational Justice: Role of Workplace Bullying among Higher Education Institutes
Authors: Jamshaid Samrah , Malik Dr. Najma I.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of current study was to examine the job embeddedness in relation to organizational justice by exploring the role of workplace bulling. Convenience sampling technique was used for collecting the sample of 120 teachers from different private and Govt sector colleges and universities of Sargodha. Job Embeddedness Scale (Crossley, 2007), Organizational Justice Scale (Hoy & Tarter, 2004), and Negative Act Questionnaire (Einarsen, Raknes, & Helleosy, 1994) were used to measure the constructs of study. Results revealed that job embeddedness has strong correlation with organizational justice which indicates that teachers who are embedded with job perceived justice in their organization. Study showed significant effect of job embeddedness constructs on organizational justice. Study showed that workplace bullying has no moderating role in job embeddedness and organizational justice.
Stereotypical Perceptions about Married and Unmarried Working Women in Relation to Parent’s Education among University Students
Authors: Kalsoom Saima , Kamal Prof. Dr. Anila
Published: November 2024

The present study aimed at investigating the differences on perception about married and unmarried working women in relation to parent?s education among university students. In the present study a sample of 300 students 150 female with the age range of 20 to 27 years (M = 21.50, SD = 3.23) and 150 male with the age range of 20 to 32 years (M = 22.60, SD = 3.10) were selected to give their opinion about married and unmarried working women in Pakistan. The positive stereotypes scale (PSSC) and negative stereotypes scale (NSSC) revised by Kalsoom and Kamal (2008) were used to study the perception of students whose parents level of education was up to primary as compared to the students whose parents level of education was middle and above. The findings of the study revealed satisfactory reliability values ranged .85 to .94 for both scales used to study stereotypes. The results of the study indicated that there is a nonsignificant difference on stereotypes about married and unmarried working women among the two groups of students whose parents were less and more educated. From the findings of this study we may infer that education has non significant relation to the perception about married and unmarried working women among university students.
Impact of Emotional Intelligence and Occupational Stress on Clinical Anger among Faculty Members of Universities
Authors: Kazmi Syeda Sehrish , Ahsan Dr. Sadaf , Khan Soulat
Published: November 2024

The present study has measured the impact of emotional intelligence and occupational stress on clinical anger among university faculty members. The objectives of the present study are to (i) study relationship among emotional intelligence, occupational stress and clinical anger in faculty members of universities (ii) find out the impact of emotional intelligence and occupational stress on clinical anger (iii) find out gender differences in emotional intelligence, occupational stress and clinical anger. The sample comprised of 200 faculty members including both males (n=100), and females (n=100),with age range between 35-55 years.Only those participants were selected who held at least Masters degree. Emotional Intelligence Scale (Wong & Law, 2002), Occupational Stress Index (Belkic, 2003) and Clinical anger scale(Snell, Gum, Shuck, Mosley, & Hite, 1995) were selected to measure the emotional intelligence, occupational stress and clinical anger respectively. Correlation, regression and independent samples t-test were applied to for data analyses. Results showed significant negative relationship between emotional intelligence and clinical anger. Results also revealed significant positive relationship between occupational stress and clinical anger. Emotional intelligence and occupational stress emerged as significant predictors of clinical anger. Findings of gender differences revealed that females had more occupational stress than males. Moreover, emotional intelligence was more in females than males. Better plans, considering emotional Intelligence, occupational Stress and clinical anger could be developed to reduce stress level for the psychological, physical, emotional health and wellbeing of university faculty members.