bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxytocin Release Increases With Age and Is Associated With Life Satisfaction and Prosocial Behaviors
Authors: Zak Paul J. , Curry Ben , Owen Tyler , Barraza Jorge A.
Published: April 2022

Helping behaviors and life satisfaction generally increase after middle-age. Identifying the neural substrates of prosocial behaviors in older adults may offer additional insights into these changes over the lifespan. The present study examines the endogenous release of the neuromodulator oxytocin (OT) in participants aged 18–99 and its relationship to prosocial behaviors. OT has been shown to influence trust, altruism, charity, and generosity, yet the effect of age on OT release has not been well-established. Blood samples before and after a video stimulus were obtained from 103 participants in order to examine the impact of OT on prosocial behaviors. We found that OT release following a social prime increased with age (r = 0.49, p = 0.001) and that OT moderated the relationship between age and donations to charity. We tested for robustness by examining three additional prosocial behaviors, money and goods donated to charity during the past year and social-sector volunteering. OT moderated the impact of age on all three prosocial behaviors (ps < 0.05). The analysis also showed that participants’ change in OT was positively associated with satisfaction with life (p = 0.04), empathic concern (p = 0.015), dispositional gratitude (p = 0.019), and religious commitment (p = 0.001). Our findings indicate that the neural chemistry that helps sustain social relationships and live a fulfilled life appear to strengthen with age.
Theabrownins Produced via Chemical Oxidation of Tea Polyphenols Inhibit Human Lung Cancer Cells in vivo and in vitro by Suppressing the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway Activation and Promoting Autophagy
Authors: Wang Yongyong , Yuan Yao , Wang Chunpeng , Wang Bingjie , Zou Wenbin , Zhang Ni , Chen Xiaoqiang
Published: April 2022

During the fermentation of dark tea, theabrownins (TBs), carbohydrates, and other substances get irreversibly complex. Recent research on the biological activity of TBs is not based on free TBs. In the present study, some brown polyphenol oxidized polymers, the generalized TBs (TBs-C), were prepared via alkali oxidation from tea polyphenols (TP). We also investigated the inhibitory mechanism of TBs-C on non-small-cell-lung cancer (NSCLC). TBs-C demonstrated a stronger inhibition than TP on the NSCLC cell lines A549, H2030, HCC827, H1975, and PC9. Next, A549 and H2030 cell lines were selected as subjects to explore this mechanism. TBs-C was found to inhibit proliferation, promote apoptosis, and induce G1 cell-cycle arrest in the cells. In addition, TBs-C increased autophagic flux, which in turn promoted the death of lung cancer cells. Moreover, TBs-C suppressed the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway activation, promoted autophagy, and increased the expression of p21 downstream of AKT, which resulted in G1 cell-cycle arrest. In xenotransplanted NSCLC nude mice derived from A549 cells, TBs-C could significantly suppress tumor growth by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway without causing hepatotoxicity, brain toxicity, or nephrotoxicity. We believe that our present findings would facilitate advancement in the research and industrialization of TBs.
Predicting Disease-Specific Survival for Patients With Primary Cholangiocarcinoma Undergoing Curative Resection by Using a Decision Tree Model
Authors: Quan Bing , Li Miao , Lu Shenxin , Li Jinghuan , Liu Wenfeng , Zhang Feng , Chen Rongxin , Ren Zhenggang , Yin Xin
Published: April 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to derive and validate a decision tree model to predict disease-specific survival after curative resection for primary cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

Method

Twenty-one clinical characteristics were collected from 482 patients after curative resection for primary CCA. A total of 289 patients were randomly allocated into a training cohort and 193 were randomly allocated into a validation cohort. We built three decision tree models based on 5, 12, and 21 variables, respectively. Area under curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were used for comparison of the 0.5-, 1-, and 3-year decision tree models and regression models. AUC and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to determine the predictive performances of the 0.5-, 1-, and 3-year decision tree models and AJCC TNM stage models.

Results

According to the fitting degree and the computational cost, the decision tree model derived from 12 variables displayed superior predictive efficacy to the other two models, with an accuracy of 0.938 in the training cohort and 0.751 in the validation cohort. Maximum tumor size, resection margin, lymph node status, histological differentiation, TB level, ALBI, AKP, AAPR, ALT, γ-GT, CA19-9, and Child-Pugh grade were involved in the model. The performances of 0.5-, 1-, and 3-year decision tree models were better than those of conventional models and AJCC TNM stage models.

Conclusion

We developed a decision tree model to predict outcomes for CCA undergoing curative resection. The present decision tree model outperformed other clinical models, facilitating individual decision-making of adjuvant therapy after curative resection.
Case Report: Durable Response to the Combination of Brigatinib and Cetuximab Plus Icotinib in a NSCLC Patient Harboring EGFR L858R-T790M-cis-G796S and L718Q Resistance Mutations Following Progression With Osimertinib
Authors: Wang Yubo , Han Rui , Zhu Mengxiao , He Tingting , He Yong
Published: April 2022

The efficacy of osimertinib is severely limited by the emergence of EGFR C797S, which is detected in either the cis or trans position with T790M when osimertinib is used as a second-line treatment, and which is largely identified in combination with an EGFR 19 deletion. The EGFR T790M-cis-G796S mutation, which also occurs in exon 20 as C797S, participates in osimertinib resistance. To date, limited data for overcoming this resistance mutation have been reported. Here, we report data for an advanced NSCLC patient who developed EGFR L858R-T790M-cis-G796S and EGFR L718Q resistance co-mutations following progression with osimertinib. Such a case has rarely been reported, and under chemotherapy guidelines for this situation, no other effective treatment is recommended. The patient in our case experienced remarkable clinical improvement and good tolerance to the combination target therapy of brigatinib and cetuximab plus icotinib. At the time of our patient’s last follow-up and prior to publication, our patient had reached more than 9 months of progression-free survival (PFS) and felt very well. Our finding provides clinical evidence that the combined target therapy of brigatinib and cetuximab may potentially be an effective treatment strategy for patients with an acquired EGFR T790M-cis-G796S resistance mutation following osimertinib treatment.
Anticancer Properties of Curcumin Against Colorectal Cancer: A Review
Authors: Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke , Adeyemo Temiloluwa Rhoda , Rotimi Damilare , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Mostafa-Hedeab Gomaa , Iyobhebhe Matthew Eboseremen , Elebiyo Tobiloba Christiana , Atunwa Bukola , Ojo Adebola Busola , Lima Clara Mariana Goncalves , Conte-Junior Carlos Adam
Published: April 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and reoccurring diseases, as well as the world’s second largest cause of mortality. Despite existing preventative, diagnostic, and treatment methods, such as chemotherapy, the number of instances rises year after year. As a result, new effective medications targeting specific checkpoints should be developed to combat CRC. Natural compounds, such as curcumin, have shown significant anti-colorectal cancer characteristics among medications that can be used to treat CRC. These chemicals are phenolic compounds that belong to the curcuminoids category. Curcumin exerts its anti-proliferative properties against CRC cell lines in vitro and in vivo via a variety of mechanisms, including the suppression of intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways, the stoppage of the cell cycle, and the activation of autophagy. Curcumin also has anti-angiogenesis properties. Thus, this review is aimed at emphasizing the biological effect and mode of action of curcumin on CRC. Furthermore, the critical role of these substances in CRC chemoprevention was emphasized.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gómez-Llobell Marina , Peleteiro Raíndo Andrés , Climent Medina Jose , Gómez Centurión Ignacio , Mosquera Orgueira Adrián
Published: April 2022

Background

Experience with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is still limited and based on early clinical trials, with no reported randomized clinical data. In this study, we reviewed the available evidence on the use of ICIs, either in monotherapy or in combination with other treatments, in different AML settings, including newly diagnosed AML, relapsed or refractory (R/R) AML and maintenance treatment after allogeneic-HSCT (allo-HSCT).

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed electronic database as primary source to identify the studies involving immune checkpoint inhibitors in first-line and R/R AML. We recorded Overall Response (ORR), Complete Response (CR) and Complete Response with incomplete count recovery (CRi) rates, overall survival (OS) and immune-related adverse events ≥ grade 3 (irAEs). Hereafter, we analyzed the overall profile of these ICIs by performing a meta-analysis of the reported outcomes.

Results

A total of 13 studies were identified where ICI was used in patients with AML. ORR across these studies was 42% (IC95%, 31% - 54%) and CR/CRi was 33% (IC95%, 22%-45%). Efficacy was also assessed considering the AML setting (first-line vs. relapsed/refractory) and results pointed to higher response rates in first-line, compared to R/R. Mean overall survival was 8.9 months [median 8 months, (IC95%, 3.9 - 15.5)]. Differences between first line and R/R settings were observed, since average overall survival in first line was 12.0 months, duplicating the OS in R/R which was 7.3 months. Additionally, the most specific adverse events (AEs) of these therapies are immune-related adverse events (irAEs), derived from their inflammatory effects. Grade ≥3 irAEs rate was low and similar among studies [12% (95%CI 8% - 16%)].

Conclusion

ICIs in combination with intensive chemotherapy, hypomethylating agents or other targeted therapies are gaining interest in the management of hematological malignancies such as AML. However, results obtained from clinical trials are modest and limited by both, the type of design and the clinical trial phase. Hopefully, the prospective study of these therapies in late-stage development could help to identify patients who may benefit from ICI therapy.
Development of Diagnosis Model for Early Lung Nodules Based on a Seven Autoantibodies Panel and Imaging Features
Authors: Xu Leidi , Chang Ning , Yang Tingyi , Lang Yuxiang , Zhang Yong , Che Yinggang , Xi Hangtian , Zhang Weiqi , Song Qingtao , Zhou Ying , Yang Xuemin , Yang Juanli , Qu Shuoyao , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2022

Background

There is increasing incidence of pulmonary nodules due to the promotion and popularization of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for potential populations with suspected lung cancer. However, a high rate of false-positive and concern of radiation-related cancer risk of repeated CT scanning remains a major obstacle to its wide application. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical value of a non-invasive and simple test, named the seven autoantibodies (7-AABs) assay (P53, PGP9.5, SOX2, GAGE7, GUB4-5, MAGEA1, and CAGE), in distinguishing malignant pulmonary diseases from benign ones in routine clinical practice, and construct a neural network diagnostic model with the development of machine learning methods.

Method

A total of 933 patients with lung diseases and 744 with lung nodules were identified. The serum levels of the 7-AABs were tested by an enzyme-linked Immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The primary goal was to assess the sensitivity and specificity of the 7-AABs panel in the detection of lung cancer. ROC curves were used to estimate the diagnosis potential of the 7-AABs in different groups. Next, we constructed a machine learning model based on the 7-AABs and imaging features to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy in lung nodules.

Results

The serum levels of all 7-AABs in the malignant lung diseases group were significantly higher than that in the benign group. The sensitivity and specificity of the 7-AABs panel test were 60.7% and 81.5% in the whole group, and 59.7% and 81.1% in cases with early lung nodules. Comparing to the 7-AABs panel test alone, the neural network model improved the AUC from 0.748 to 0.96 in patients with pulmonary nodules.

Conclusion

The 7-AABs panel may be a promising method for early detection of lung cancer, and we constructed a new diagnostic model with better efficiency to distinguish malignant lung nodules from benign nodules which could be used in clinical practice.
Extracellular Vesicles and the Inflammasome: An Intricate Network Sustaining Chemoresistance
Authors: Mezzasoma Letizia , Bellezza Ilaria , Romani Rita , Talesa Vincenzo Nicola
Published: April 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane enclosed spherical particles devoted to intercellular communication. Cancer-derived EVs (Ca-EVs) are deeply involved in tumor microenvironment remodeling, modifying the inflammatory phenotype of cancerous and non-cancerous residing cells. Inflammation plays a pivotal role in initiation, development, and progression of many types of malignancies. The key feature of cancer-related inflammation is the production of cytokines that incessantly modify of the surrounding environment. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is one of the most powerful cytokines, influencing all the initiation-to-progression stages of many types of cancers and represents an emerging critical contributor to chemoresistance. IL-1β production strictly depends on the activation of inflammasome, a cytoplasmic molecular platform sensing exogenous and endogenous danger signals. It has been recently shown that Ca-EVs can activate the inflammasome cascade and IL-1β production in tumor microenvironment-residing cells. Since inflammasome dysregulation has been established as crucial regulator in inflammation-associated tumorigenesis and chemoresistance, it is conceivable that the use of inflammasome-inhibiting drugs may be employed as adjuvant chemotherapy to counteract chemoresistance. This review focuses on the role of cancer-derived EVs in tuning tumor microenvironment unveiling the intricate network between inflammasome and chemoresistance.
Clinical Status and Outcome of Isolated Right Ventricular Hypoplasia: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of Case Reports
Authors: Hirono Keiichi , Origasa Hideki , Tsuboi Kaori , Takarada Shinya , Oguri Masato , Okabe Mako , Miyao Nariaki , Nakaoka Hideyuki , Ibuki Keijiro , Ozawa Sayaka , Ichida Fukiko
Published: April 2022

Background

Isolated right ventricular hypoplasia (IRVH), not associated with severe pulmonary or tricuspid valve malformation, is a rare congenital myocardial disease. This study aims to evaluate the clinical status and outcome of IRVH.

Methods

A systematic search of keywords on IRVH was conducted. Studies were searched from MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi (Ichushi) published between January 1950 and August 2021.

Results

Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria. All of these studies were case reports and included 54 patients (25 males and 29 females). The median age of the patients was 2.5 years old (0–15.3 years). Of the 54 patients, 13 (24.1%) reported a family history of cardiomyopathy. Moreover, 50 (92.6%), 19 (35.2%), and 17 (31.5%) patients were diagnosed with cyanosis, finger clubbing, and dyspnea, respectively. Furthermore, 53 (98.2%) patients had a patent foramen ovale or an atrial septal defect (ASD). Z-score of the tricuspid valve diameter on echocardiogram was −2.16 ± 1.53, concomitant with small right ventricular end-diastolic volume. In addition, 29 (53.7%), 21 (38.9%), 7 (13.0%), and 2 (3.7%) patients underwent surgery, ASD closure, Glenn operation, and one and a half ventricular repair, respectively. Among them, nine (20.4%) patients expired, and the multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that infancy, heart failure, and higher right ventricular end-diastolic pressure were risk factors for death.

Conclusions

IRVH was diagnosed early in children with cyanosis and was associated with high mortality. This systematic review and pooled analysis provided evidence to assess the of IRVH degree in order to evaluate the clinical status and outcome of IRVH.
Working Towards a Treat-to-Target Protocol in Juvenile Proliferative Lupus Nephritis – A Survey of Pediatric Rheumatologists and Nephrologists in Germany and Austria
Authors: Vollbach Kristina , Schuetz Catharina , Hedrich Christian M. , Speth Fabian , Mönkemöller Kirsten , Brunner Jürgen , Neudorf Ulrich , Rietschel Christoph , Hospach Anton , Kallinich Tilmann , Hinze Claas , Wagner Norbert , Tönshoff Burkhard , Weber Lutz T. , Latta Kay , Thumfart Julia , Bald Martin , Wiemann Dagobert , Zappel Hildegard , Tenbrock Klaus , Haffner Dieter
Published: April 2022

Background

To describe treatment practices for juvenile proliferative lupus nephritis (LN) class III and IV of pediatric rheumatologists and nephrologists in Germany and Austria in preparation for a treat-to-target treatment protocol in LN.

Methods

Survey study by members of the Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Rheumatology (GKJR) and the German Society for Pediatric Nephrology (GPN) on diagnostics and (concomitant) therapy of LN.

Results

Fifty-eight physicians completed the survey. Overall, there was a considerable heterogeneity regarding the suggested diagnostics and management of juvenile proliferative LN. Increased urinary protein excretion, either assessed by 24 h urine collection or spot urine (protein-creatinine ratio), and reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate were specified as important parameters for indication of kidney biopsy to diagnose proliferative LN and monitoring of therapy. Corticosteroids were generally proposed for induction and maintenance therapy, most often in conjunction with either mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or cyclophosphamide (CP) as steroid-sparing immunosuppressants. MMF was clearly preferred over CP for induction therapy of LN class III, whereas CP and MMF were equally proposed for LN class IV. MMF was most often recommended for maintenance therapy in conjunction with oral corticosteroids and continued for at least 3 years and 1 year, respectively, after remission. Hydroxychloroquine was widely accepted as a concomitant measure followed by renin-angiotensin system inhibitors in cases of arterial hypertension and/or proteinuria.

Conclusion

The majority of pediatric rheumatologists and nephrologists in Germany and Austria propose the use of corticosteroids, most often in combination with either MMF or CP, for treatment of proliferative LN in children. The considerable heterogeneity of responses supports the need for a treat-to-target protocol for juvenile proliferative LN between pediatric rheumatologists and nephrologists.
Heart Rate Variability Analysis to Evaluate Autonomic Nervous System Maturation in Neonates: An Expert Opinion
Authors: Patural Hugues , Franco Patricia , Pichot Vincent , Giraud Antoine
Published: April 2022

While heart rate variability (HRV) is a relevant non-invasive tool to assess the autonomic nervous system (ANS) functioning with recognized diagnostic and therapeutic implications, the lack of knowledge on its interest in neonatal medicine is certain. This review aims to briefly describe the algorithms used to decompose variations in the length of the RR interval and better understand the physiological autonomic maturation data of the newborn. Assessing newborns’ autonomous reactivity can identify dysautonomia situations and discriminate children with a high risk of life-threatening events, which should benefit from cardiorespiratory monitoring at home. Targeted monitoring of HRV should provide an objective reflection of the newborn’s intrinsic capacity for cardiorespiratory self-regulation.
Study on the Characteristics of Small-Molecule Kinase Inhibitors-Related Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Dong Huiqun , You Jia , Zhao Yu , Zheng Danhua , Zhong Yi , Li Gaozheng , Weng Zuquan , Luo Heng , Jiang Shan
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: More than half of the small-molecule kinase inhibitors (KIs) induced liver injury clinically. Meanwhile, studies have shown a close relationship between mitochondrial damage and drug-induced liver injury (DILI). We aimed to study KIs and the binding between drugs and mitochondrial proteins to find factors related to DILI occurrence.

Methods: A total of 1,223 oral FDA-approved drugs were collected and analyzed, including 44 KIs. Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze DILI potential and risk of different factors. A total of 187 human mitochondrial proteins were further collected, and high-throughput molecular docking was performed between human mitochondrial proteins and drugs in the data set. The molecular dynamics simulation was used to optimize and evaluate the dynamic binding behavior of the selected mitochondrial protein/KI complexes.

Results: The possibility of KIs to produce DILI is much higher than that of other types (OR = 46.89, p = 9.28E-13). A few DILI risk factors were identified, including molecular weight (MW) between 400 and 600, the defined daily dose (DDD) ≥ 100 mg/day, the octanol–water partition coefficient (LogP) ≥ 3, and the degree of liver metabolism (LM) more than 50%. Drugs that met this combination of rules were found to have a higher DILI risk than controls (OR = 8.28, p = 4.82E-05) and were more likely to cause severe DILI (OR = 8.26, p = 5.06E-04). The docking results showed that KIs had a significant higher affinity with human mitochondrial proteins (p = 4.19E-11) than other drug types. Furthermore, the five proteins with the lowest docking score were selected for molecular dynamics simulation, and the smallest fluctuation of the backbone RMSD curve was found in the protein 5FS8/KI complexes, which indicated the best stability of the protein 5FS8 bound to KIs.

Conclusions: KIs were found to have the highest odds ratio of causing DILI. MW was significantly related to the production of DILI, and the average docking scores of KI drugs were found to be significantly different from other classes. Further analysis identified the top binding mitochondrial proteins for KIs, and specific binding sites were analyzed. The optimization of molecular docking results by molecular dynamics simulation may contribute to further studying the mechanism of DILI.
Benefits of Curcumin in the Vasculature: A Therapeutic Candidate for Vascular Remodeling in Arterial Hypertension and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension?
Authors: Li Ke-Xue , Wang Zi-Chao , Machuki Jeremiah Ong’Achwa , Li Meng-Zhen , Wu Yu-Jie , Niu Ming-Kai , Yu Kang-Ying , Lu Qing-Bo , Sun Hai-Jian
Published: April 2022

Growing evidence suggests that hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality since uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, hemorrhagic stroke, and chronic kidney disease. Impaired vascular homeostasis plays a critical role in the development of hypertension-induced vascular remodeling. Abnormal behaviors of vascular cells are not only a pathological hallmark of hypertensive vascular remodeling, but also an important pathological basis for maintaining reduced vascular compliance in hypertension. Targeting vascular remodeling represents a novel therapeutic approach in hypertension and its cardiovascular complications. Phytochemicals are emerging as candidates with therapeutic effects on numerous pathologies, including hypertension. An increasing number of studies have found that curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from dietary spice turmeric, holds a broad spectrum of pharmacological actions, such as antiplatelet, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiangiogenic effects. Curcumin has been shown to prevent or treat vascular remodeling in hypertensive rodents by modulating various signaling pathways. In the present review, we attempt to focus on the current findings and molecular mechanisms of curcumin in the treatment of hypertensive vascular remodeling. In particular, adverse and inconsistent effects of curcumin, as well as some favorable pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics profiles in arterial hypertension will be discussed. Moreover, the recent progress in the preparation of nano-curcumins and their therapeutic potential in hypertension will be briefly recapped. The future research directions and challenges of curcumin in hypertension-related vascular remodeling are also proposed. It is foreseeable that curcumin is likely to be a therapeutic agent for hypertension and vascular remodeling going forwards.
Biochar Implications Under Limited Irrigation for Sweet Corn Production in a Semi-Arid Environment
Authors: Singh Manpreet , Singh Sukhbir , Parkash Ved , Ritchie Glen , Wallace Russell W. , Deb Sanjit K.
Published: April 2022

The integration of biochar and deficit irrigation is increasingly being evaluated as a water-saving strategy to minimize crop yield losses under reduced irrigation in arid and semi-arid regions such as West Texas. A 2-year (2019 and 2020) open-field study evaluated the effect of two types of biochar amendments (hardwood and softwood) and three irrigation rates [100, 70, and 40% crop evapotranspiration (ETc) replacement] on the physiology, plant growth, and yield of sweet corn in semi-arid West Texas. All experimental units were replicated four times in a split-plot design. The chlorophyll content (ChlSPAD) in 40% ETc dropped significantly compared to 100% ETc and 70% ETc during the reproductive phase. Although water stress under 40% ETc decreased photosynthesis (Pn) to limit transpiration (E) by stomatal closure, it improved intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE). The above-mentioned gas exchange parameters were comparable between 100% ETc and 70% ETc. Both biochar treatments increased ChlSPAD content over non-amended plots, however, their effect on gas exchange parameters was non-significant. All growth and yield-related parameters were comparable between 100% ETc and 70% ETc, but significantly greater than 40% ETc, except water productivity (WP). Both deficit irrigation treatments improved WP over full irrigation in 2019, but in 2020, the WP gains were observed only under 70% ETc. Hardwood biochar decreased soil bulk density and increased soil porosity, but it had a marginal effect on the water retention characteristics. These results suggest that 70% ETc can be used as an alternative to full irrigation to save water with a minimal yield penalty for sweet corn production in the West Texas region. The hardwood biochar application improved the vegetative biomass significantly but yield marginally during the first 2 years of application. A long-term study is required to test the effect of biochar under deficit irrigation beyond 2 years.
Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation and Sucrose Metabolism Supplemented by Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis in Response to Water Stress in Rice With Overlapping Growth Stages
Authors: Wang Xinpeng , Liu Hualong , Zhang Di , Zou Detang , Wang Jingguo , Zheng Hongliang , Jia Yan , Qu Zhaojun , Sun Bin , Zhao Hongwei
Published: April 2022

Drought stress at jointing and booting phases of plant development directly affects plant growth and productivity in rice. Limited by natural factors, the jointing and booting stages in rice varieties are known to overlap in high-latitude areas that are more sensitive to water deficit. However, the regulation of photosynthetic carbon fixation and sucrose metabolism in rice leaves under different degrees of drought stress remains unclear. In this study, rice plants were subjected to three degrees of drought stress (−10, −25, −and 40 kPa) for 15 days during the jointing-booting stage, we investigated photosynthetic carbon sequestration and sucrose metabolism pathways in rice leaves and analyzed key genes and regulatory networks using transcriptome sequencing in 2016. And we investigated the effects of drought stress on the growth periods of rice with overlapping growth periods in 2016 and 2017. The results showed that short-term drought stress promoted photosynthetic carbon fixation. However, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCO) activity significantly decreased, resulting in a significant decrease in photosynthetic rate. Drought stress increased the maximum activity of fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (FBA). FBA maintains the necessary photosynthetic rate during drought stress and provides a material base after the resumption of irrigation in the form of controlling the content of its reaction product triose phosphate. Drought stress significantly affected the activities of sucrose synthase (SuSase) and sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS). Vacuoles invertase (VIN) activity increased significantly, and the more severe the drought, the higher the VIN activity. Severe drought stress at the jointing-booting stage severely restricted the growth process of rice with overlapping growth stages and significantly delayed heading and anthesis stages. Transcriptome analysis showed that the number of differentially expressed genes was highest at 6–9 days after drought stress. Two invertase and four β-amylase genes with time-specific expression were involved in sucrose-starch metabolism in rice under drought stress. Combined with weighted gene co-expression network analysis, VIN and β-amylase genes up-regulated throughout drought stress were regulated by OsbZIP04 and OsWRKY62 transcription factors under drought stress. This study showed that any water deficit at the jointing-booting stage would have a serious effect on sucrose metabolism in leaves of rice with overlapping growth stages.
Understanding Design Features of Music and Language: The Choric/Dialogic Distinction
Authors: Haiduk Felix , Fitch W. Tecumseh
Published: April 2022

Music and spoken language share certain characteristics: both consist of sequences of acoustic elements that are combinatorically combined, and these elements partition the same continuous acoustic dimensions (frequency, formant space and duration). However, the resulting categories differ sharply: scale tones and note durations of small integer ratios appear in music, while speech uses phonemes, lexical tone, and non-isochronous durations. Why did music and language diverge into the two systems we have today, differing in these specific features? We propose a framework based on information theory and a reverse-engineering perspective, suggesting that design features of music and language are a response to their differential deployment along three different continuous dimensions. These include the familiar propositional-aesthetic (‘goal’) and repetitive-novel (‘novelty’) dimensions, and a dialogic-choric (‘interactivity’) dimension that is our focus here. Specifically, we hypothesize that music exhibits specializations enhancing coherent production by several individuals concurrently—the ‘choric’ context. In contrast, language is specialized for exchange in tightly coordinated turn-taking—‘dialogic’ contexts. We examine the evidence for our framework, both from humans and non-human animals, and conclude that many proposed design features of music and language follow naturally from their use in distinct dialogic and choric communicative contexts. Furthermore, the hybrid nature of intermediate systems like poetry, chant, or solo lament follows from their deployment in the less typical interactive context.
Does Gratitude Ensure Workplace Happiness Among University Teachers? Examining the Role of Social and Psychological Capital and Spiritual Climate
Authors: Garg Naval , Mahipalan Manju , Poulose Shobitha , Burgess John
Published: April 2022

The study examines the necessity and sufficiency of gratitude for supporting workplace happiness among Indian university teachers. It also explores the mediating effect of psychological capital and social capital in the relationship between gratitude and workplace happiness. The moderating effect of spiritual climate is investigated. A survey of 726 university staff in India was undertaken to examine the relationship between gratitude and workplace happiness. A series of statistical tests involving correlation, multiple regression, and necessary condition analysis was undertaken from the data set. The mediation effect of psychological capital and social capital was investigated using bootstrapping estimates using PROCESS Macro in SPSS. Also, the moderation effect of spiritual climate was explored using PROCESS Macro in SPSS. The results reveal that gratitude is both a sufficient and necessary condition for workplace happiness. It also suggests a significant mediating effect of psychological capital and social capital. Also, a significant effect of spiritual climate amid the relationship between gratitude and workplace happiness is concluded. The study is one of the first studies that explore the relationship between gratitude and workplace happiness. It examines the mechanism through which gratitude influences happiness in the workplace.
Case Report: Psychoacoustic Analysis of a Clarinet Performance With a Custom-Made Soft Lip Shield Worn to Prevent Mucosal Erosion of Lower Lip
Authors: Tanabe Gen , Hattori Mariko , Obata Satoshi , Takahashi Yuumi , Churei Hiroshi , Nishiyama Akira , Ueno Toshiaki , Sumita Yuka I.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Wind instrument players sometimes suffer from erosion of the mucous membrane of the lip. This is caused by the action and pressure of the mouthpiece of the wind instrument against teeth. To address this problem, a lip shield is fitted over the dental arch to prevent direct contact between the lips and teeth. However, there are a few studies on the influence of the lip shield on the acoustics of wind instruments. The purpose of this study was to analyze the psychoacoustics of a clarinet performance with the player wearing a custom-made soft lip shield to prevent mucosal erosion of the lower lip.

Case Description

A lip shield was custom-made with a soft thermoplastic material for a female clarinetist who complained of mucosal erosion and pain of the lower lip. The psychoacoustics of her musical performance played in different dynamics, fortissimo, mezzo forte and pianissimo were analyzed, including loudness and sharpness. A self-evaluation questionnaire with items rated on a 10-point scale was administered. After wearing the lip shield, the patient reported that the mucosal erosion and pain of her lower lip when playing clarinet resolved. The lip shield had little effect on the loudness. There was a slight decrease in sharpness when the lip shield was worn compared to when it was not, describing the reduction of high frequencies. Furthermore, fewer variations in sharpness between the tones were observed.

Conclusion

The results suggest that lip shields made of soft materials can eliminate mucosal erosion and pain of the lower lip while having little effect on performance, although, a slight change in timbre is possible.
Evaluation of the German Version of the Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Screening Scale for DSM-5 as a Screening Tool for Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Primary Care
Authors: Ballmann Cora , Kölle Markus Alexander , Bekavac-Günther Ines , Wolf Florian , Pargent Florian , Barzel Anne , Philipsen Alexandra , Gensichen Jochen
Published: April 2022

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common, but often undiagnosed. A valid and time-efficient screening tool for primary care is needed. Objective of this study is to evaluate the German version of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale for DSM-5 (ASRS-5) and its feasibility, acceptability, and reliability as a screening tool for adult ADHD in primary care. A multi-centered prospective, diagnostic study was performed. We recruited 262 patients in primary care practices and at an ADHD Outpatient Service of a department of psychiatry in Germany. Patients from 18 to 65 years with suspected or diagnosed ADHD were included by medical doctors, as well as non-ADHD patients as “negative controls.” Participants filled in the ASRS-5 and a sociodemographic questionnaire. The Integrated Diagnosis of Adult ADHD, revised version (IDA-R) performed by trained interviewers was used for validation. Feasibility, acceptability, and credibility in primary care practices were examined through a semi-structured interview. The German version of the ASRS-5 showed comparable psychometric properties to the English original version (sensitivity 95.6% and specificity 72.3%). For factor structure, a parallel analysis suggested one latent dimension. Performing confirmatory factor analysis, the best fit was achieved for a general factor with one correlated error. Internal consistency results in Raykovs Omega = 0.86 and Cronbach’s α = 0.88. The ASRS-5 was assessed positively in terms of feasibility, acceptability, and credibility by interviewed general practitioners. Potential problems were raised for “treatment options,” “stigmatization,” and “knowledge gaps.” In conclusion, the German version of the ASRS-5 offers a promising tool to improve adult ADHD patients’ diagnosis and healthcare.
Analysis and Prediction of Influencing Factors of College Student Achievement Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Dongxuan , Lian Dapeng , Xing Yazhou , Dong Shiying , Sun Xinyu , Yu Jia
Published: April 2022

To effectively improve students’ performance and help educators monitor students’ learning situations, many colleges are committed to establishing systems that explore the influencing factors and predict student academic performance. However, because different colleges have different situations, the previous research results may not be applicable to ordinary Chinese colleges. This paper has two main objectives: to analyze the fluctuation of Chinese ordinary college student academic performance and to establish systems to predict performance. First, according to previous research results and the current situation of Chinese college students, a questionnaire was designed to collect data. Second, the chi-square test was used to analyze the contents of the questionnaire and identify the main features. Third, taking the main features as input, four classification prediction models are established by machine learning. Some traits of the students who did not pass all the examinations were also discovered. It might help student counselors and educators to take targeted measures. The experiment shows that the support vector machine classifier (SVC) model has the best and most stable effect. The average recall rate, precision rate, and accuracy rate reached 82.83%, 86.18%, and 80.96%, respectively.
Influence of Weekday and Seasonal Trends on Urgency and In-hospital Mortality of Emergency Department Patients
Authors: Hitzek Jennifer , Fischer-Rosinský Antje , Möckel Martin , Kuhlmann Stella Linnea , Slagman Anna
Published: April 2022

Background

Given the scarcity of resources, the increasing use of emergency departments (ED) represents a major challenge for the care of emergency patients. Current health policy interventions focus on restructuring emergency care with the help of patient re-direction into outpatient treatment structures. A precise analysis of ED utilization, taking into account treatment urgency, is essential for demand-oriented adjustments of emergency care structures.

Methods

Temporal and seasonal trends in the use of EDs were investigated, considering treatment urgency and hospital mortality. Secondary data of 287,119 ED visits between 2015 and 2017 of the two EDs of Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow Klinikum were analyzed.

Result

EDs were used significantly more frequently on weekends than on weekdays (Mdn = 290 vs. 245 visits/day; p < 0.001). The proportion of less urgent, outpatient emergency visits on weekends was above average. Holiday periods were characterized by at least 6, and at most 176 additional ED visits. In a comparison of different holidays, most ED visits were observed at New Year (+68% above average). In addition, a significant increase in in-hospital mortality on holidays was evident among inpatients admitted to hospital via the ED (3.0 vs. 3.2%; p < 0.001), with New Year's Day being particularly striking (5.4%).

Conclusion

These results suggest that, in particular, the resource planning of outpatient emergency treatment capacities on weekends and holidays should be adapted to the increased volume of non-urgent visits in EDs. Nevertheless, treatment capacities for the care of urgent, inpatient emergencies should not be disregarded and further research projects are necessary to investigate the causes of increased mortality during holiday periods.
Under the Mask: A Film on Tuberculosis at the Thai-Myanmar Border
Authors: Delmas Michele Vincenti , Soan Mary , Khirikoekkong Napat , Aung Ko Ko , Ler Wah Saw , Htun Win Pa Pa , Maung Banyar , Mukaka Mavuto , Cheah Phaik Yeong
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we describe the development of the film, “Under the Mask,” which follows the lives of three fictional characters who live on the Thai-Myanmar border as they journey from diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) to completion of treatment. Under the Mask was filmed on location on the Thai-Myanmar border by local filmmakers and former refugee populations. Cast members were chosen from communities living along the border. This paper describes the script development process, filming, and screening in the community. We also report the findings from the pre- and post-screening questionnaires and post-film focus group discussions. A total of 77 screening events took place between March 2019 and March 2020 to 9,510 audience members in community venues such as village squares, temples and monasteries (N = 21), schools/migrant learning centers (N = 49), and clinics (N = 4). The pre-and post-screen questionnaires showed a significant gain in self-perceived TB knowledge on prevention, transmission, signs and symptoms, and related discrimination. Our findings from 18 post-screening focus group discussions conducted with 188 participants showed that there were improvements in knowledge and awareness of the disease and treatment, as well as in the awareness of stigma, and the burdens of tuberculosis on patients and their families.
A Systematic Review Comparing Animal and Human Scarring Models
Authors: Mistry Riyam , Veres Mark , Issa Fadi
Published: April 2022

Introduction

A reproducible, standardised model for cutaneous scar tissue to assess therapeutics is crucial to the progress of the field. A systematic review was performed to critically evaluate scarring models in both animal and human research.

Method

All studies in which cutaneous scars are modelling in animals or humans were included. Models that were focused on the wound healing process or those in humans with scars from an existing injury were excluded. Ovid Medline® was searched on 25 February 2019 to perform two near identical searches; one aimed at animals and the other aimed at humans. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts for study selection. Full texts of potentially suitable studies were then obtained for analysis.

Results

The animal kingdom search yielded 818 results, of which 71 were included in the review. Animals utilised included rabbits, mice, pigs, dogs and primates. Methods used for creating scar tissue included sharp excision, dermatome injury, thermal injury and injection of fibrotic substances. The search for scar assessment in humans yielded 287 results, of which 9 met the inclusion criteria. In all human studies, sharp incision was used to create scar tissue. Some studies focused on patients before or after elective surgery, including bilateral breast reduction, knee replacement or midline sternotomy.

Discussion

The rabbit ear scar model was the most popular tool for scar research, although pigs produce scar tissue which most closely resembles that of humans. Immunodeficient mouse models allow for in vivo engraftment and study of human scar tissue, however, there are limitations relating to the systemic response to these xenografts. Factors that determine the use of animals include cost of housing requirements, genetic traceability, and ethical concerns. In humans, surgical patients are often studied for scarring responses and outcomes, but reproducibility and patient factors that impact healing can limit interpretation. Human tissue use in vitro may serve as a good basis to rapidly screen and assess treatments prior to clinical use, with the advantage of reduced cost and setup requirements.
Academic Pediatric Surgery Capacity Building in Vietnam Through PASS, a Pediatric Acute Surgical Support Course
Authors: Nguyen Bich-Uyen , Holterman Aixuan , Holterman Mark , Dinh Le-Thanh
Published: April 2022

Neonatal and pediatric surgical emergencies in Low and Low Middle Income countries remain a significant challenge in combatting the burden and inequities of global health. IPSAC-Vietnam is a small Non-Governmental Organization that has been engaged in a 12-year multi-pronged partnership with several children’s hospitals in Vietnam VN to enhance pediatric surgery capacity. We describe the health care, medical training and emergency system in VN as the background for IPSAC activities and development of Pediatric Acute Surgical Support (PASS) course. The course goal is to prepare health care personnel in the immediate management of neonatal/pediatric life-threatening surgical conditions and road injuries at their first point of entry into Vietnam hospitals. PASS is a horizontal outreach initiative that adopts an interprofessional, multidisciplinary, team-training, train-the-trainers, and outcome-based training approach. PASS can be used as a tool for sustainable horizontal capacity-building by champion leaders at the teaching children’s hospitals and medical universities in developing countries, to strengthen training for pediatric surgical emergencies, to integrate pediatric and pediatric surgical care and to advocate for a comprehensive approach to emergency care of the critically ill child.
Case Report: Hemodynamic Instability Caused by Splenic Rupture During Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Lobectomy
Authors: Liu Chun-tong , Wu Ting-ting , Ding Yun-ying , Lin Jin-long , Zhou Shuang , Liu Hong , Ji Fu-hai , Peng Ke
Published: April 2022

Background

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has been widely performed for patients with lung cancer. Splenic rupture after VATS lung procedures is a very rare and serious event.

Case Presentation

We reported a case with hemodynamic instability after left lower VATS lobectomy. There was no evidence of diaphragmatic injury during the surgery. Computed tomography (CT) showed spleen injury and large amount of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Emergent laparotomy was performed, and splenic rupture was diagnosed. The patient underwent splenectomy, with two lacerations at the diaphragmatic surface of the spleen. The patient did well postoperatively and was discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 5.

Conclusion

There are few similar cases reported in the literature. Persistent hemodynamic instability due to the rupture of spleen is life-threatening. In the situation of unexplained hypotension during VATS procedures (especially left-sided approaches), the possibility of splenic injury and rupture should be considered. Abdominal ultrasonography and/or CT examinations should be carried out for prompt diagnosis and treatment of such rare complication.