bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D-Printed Medical-Grade Polycaprolactone (mPCL) Scaffold for the Surgical Treatment of Vaginal Prolapse and Abdominal Hernias
Authors: Russo Serafini Mairim , Mowat Alexandra , Mustafa Susanah , Saifzadeh Siamak , Shabab Tara , Bas Onur , O’Rourke Nicholas , W. Hutmacher Dietmar , Medeiros Savi Flavia
Published: October 2023

The expected outcome after a scaffold augmented hernia repair is the regeneration of a tissue composition strong enough to sustain biomechanical function over long periods. It is hypothesised that melt electrowriting (MEW) medical-grade polycaprolactone (mPCL) scaffolds loaded with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) will enhance soft tissue regeneration in fascial defects in abdominal and vaginal sheep models. A pre-clinical evaluation of vaginal and abdominal hernia reconstruction using mPCL mesh scaffolds and polypropylene (PP) meshes was undertaken using an ovine model. Each sheep was implanted with both a PP mesh (control group), and a mPCL mesh loaded with PRP (experimental group) in both abdominal and vaginal sites. Mechanical properties of the tissue-mesh complexes were assessed with plunger tests. Tissue responses to the implanted meshes were evaluated via histology, immunohistochemistry and histomorphometry. At 6 months post-surgery, the mPCL mesh was less stiff than the PP mesh, but stiffer than the native tissue, while showing equitable collagen and vascular ingrowth when compared to PP mesh. The results of this pilot study were supportive of mPCL as a safe and effective biodegradable scaffold for hernia and vaginal prolapse repair, hence a full-scale long-term study (over 24–36 months) with an adequate sample size is recommended.
The Composition and Function of the Rhizosphere Bacterial Community of Paeonia lactiflora Varies with the Cultivar
Authors: Yang Liping , Wan Xin , Zhou Runyang , Yuan Yingdan
Published: October 2023

The composition and diversity of the rhizosphere microbial community maintain the stability of the root microclimate, and several studies have focused on this aspect of rhizosphere microorganisms. However, how these communities vary with cultivars of a species is not completely understood. Paeonia lactiflora—a perennial herb species of the family Paeoniaceae—includes a wide variety of cultivars, with rich rhizosphere microbial resources. Hence, we studied the differences in rhizosphere bacterial communities associated with eight P. lactiflora cultivars. We noted that Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, Planctomycetes and Chloroflexi were the dominant phyla associated with the cultivars. The composition of rhizosphere bacterial community of different cultivars was highly similar at taxonomic levels, but there were slightly differences in the relative abundance. LEfSe analysis showed that the cultivars “Sheng Tao Hua” and “Zi Lou Xian Jin” exhibited the most biomarkers. Differential ASV analysis revealed the maximum difference in ASV abundance between “Lian Tai” and “Zi Hong Zheng Hui”, as well as between “Sheng Tao Hua” and “Tao Hua Fei Xue”, and the maximum similarity between “Duo Ye Zi” and “Xue Feng”. Co-occurrence network analysis revealed that rhizosphere bacteria in most cultivars maintain homeostasis by cooperation, wherein Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria played a vital role. In addition, microbial resources related to cultivars like bioremediation, organic degradation and resistance to diseases are found. This study revealed the structures of the rhizosphere bacterial communities associated with different cultivars of P. lactiflora and explored their stress resistance potential, which can be used to guide future agricultural practices.
The Circadian Clock Coordinates the Tradeoff between Adaptation to Abiotic Stresses and Yield in Crops
Authors: Xu Hang , Zuo Yi , Wei Jian , Wang Lei
Published: October 2023

Plants have evolved a circadian clock to adapt to ever-changing diel and seasonal environmental conditions. The circadian clock is generally considered an internal system that has evolved to adapt to cyclic environmental cues, especially diel light and temperature changes, which is essential for higher plants as they are sessile organisms. This system receives environmental signals as input pathways which are integrated by circadian core oscillators to synchronize numerous output pathways, such as photosynthesis, the abiotic stress response, metabolism, and development. Extreme temperatures, salinity, and drought stresses cause huge crop losses worldwide, imposing severe pressure on areas of agricultural land. In crop production, the circadian system plays a significant role in determining flowering time and responding to external abiotic stresses. Extensive studies over the last two decades have revealed that the circadian clock can help balance the tradeoff between crop yield-related agronomic traits and adaptation to stress. Herein, we focus on summarizing how the circadian clock coordinates abiotic stress responses and crop yield. We also propose that there might be an urgent need to better utilize circadian biology in the future design of crop breeding to achieve high yields under stress conditions.
Young vs. Old Population: Does Urban Environment of Skyscrapers Create Different Obesity Prevalence?
Authors: Arbel Yuval , Arbel Yifat , Kerner Amichai , Kerner Miryam
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the impact of more densely populated urban environments proxied by the number of skyscrapers on the obesity prevalence among young vs. old populations at a US statewide level. Obesity is a global pandemic, as well as a major risk factor for a long series of health problems and increased mortality rates. We employ a quadratic model, which relaxes the a priori assumption of the monotonic rise or drop in obesity prevalence with the number of skyscrapers. The outcomes demonstrated a U-shaped curve and a sharper decrease (increase) in the projected obesity prevalence with the number of skyscrapers in the range of 0–147 (147–270) skyscrapers for the old population age cohorts above 65 years old. One possible explanation is the different motivation for physical activity among dissimilar age cohorts. While younger people are focused on maintaining a slim body shape, older people identify with the importance of sports. The public policy outcome of our study is the need to implement different recommendations in dissimilar urban environments based on age cohort stratification. Given that skyscrapers are the manifestation of wealth economics and present the typical characteristics of modern cities, which, in turn, are the future of economic development and productivity, these recommendations might prove to be important.
Plasma Gel Made of Platelet-Poor Plasma: In Vitro Verification as a Carrier of Polyphosphate
Authors: Nakamura Masayuki , Masuki Hideo , Kawabata Hideo , Watanabe Taisuke , Watanabe Takao , Tsujino Tetsuhiro , Isobe Kazushige , Kitamura Yutaka , Mourão Carlos Fernando , Kawase Tomoyuki
Published: October 2023

Plasma gel (PG) is a blood-derived biomaterial that can be prepared by heating or chemical cross-linking without the aid of intrinsic coagulation activity and has gradually been applied in the field of esthetic surgery. To explore the applicability of PG in regenerative therapy or tissue engineering, in this study, we focused on the advantages of the heating method and verified the retention capacity of the resulting PG for polyphosphate (polyP), a polyanion that contributes to hemostasis and bone regeneration. Pooled platelet-poor plasma (PPP) was prepared from four healthy male adult donors, mixed with synthetic polyP, and heated at 75 °C for 10 or 30 min to prepare PG in microtubes. The PG was incubated in PBS at 37 °C, and polyP levels in the extra-matrix PBS were determined by the fluorometric method every 24 h. The microstructure of PG was examined using scanning electron microscopy. In the small PG matrices, almost all of the added polyP (~100%) was released within the initial 24 h. In contrast, in the large PG matrices, approximately 50% of the polyP was released within the initial 24 h and thereafter gradually released over time. Owing to its simple chemical structure, linear polyP cannot be theoretically retained in the gel matrices used in this study. However, these findings suggest that thermally prepared PG matrices can be applied as carriers of polyP in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
IZUMO1 Receptor Localization during Hyaluronic Acid Selection in Human Spermatozoa
Authors: Gómez-Torres María José , Hernández-Falcó Miranda , López-Botella Andrea , Huerta-Retamal Natalia , Sáez-Espinosa Paula
Published: October 2023

IZUMO1 is an acrosome transmembrane protein implicated in the adhesion and fusion of gametes. This study aims to describe the distribution of IZUMO1 in human sperm under different physiological conditions: before capacitation (NCS), at one-hour capacitation (CS1), after a hyaluronic acid (HA) selection test (mature, MS1 and immature, IS1), and induced acrosome reaction from one-hour-capacitated sperm (ARS1). The data obtained in NCS, CS1, and MS1 significantly highlight dotted fluorescence in the acrosomal region (P1) as the major staining pattern (~70%). Moreover, we describe a new distribution pattern (P2) with a dotted acrosomal region and a labelled equatorial region that significantly increases in HA-bound spermatozoa, suggesting the onset of the migration of IZUMO1. In contrast, unbound spermatozoa presented an increase in P3 (equatorial region labelled) and P4 (not labelled). Finally, costaining to observe IZUMO1 distribution and acrosome status was performed in ARS1. Interestingly, we reported a variety of combinations between the IZUMO1 staining patterns and the acrosomal stages. In conclusion, these data show as a novelty the diffusion of the IZUMO1 protein during different physiological conditions that could contribute to the improvement in sperm selection techniques.
Molecular Cloning, Heterologous Expression, Purification, and Evaluation of Protein–Ligand Interactions of CYP51 of Candida krusei Azole-Resistant Fungal Strain
Authors: Tsybruk Tatsiana V. , Kaluzhskiy Leonid A. , Mezentsev Yuri V. , Makarieva Tatyana N. , Tabakmaher Kseniya M. , Ivanchina Natalia V. , Dmitrenok Pavel S. , Baranovsky Alexander V. , Gilep Andrei A. , Ivanov Alexis S.
Published: October 2023

Due to the increasing prevalence of fungal diseases caused by fungi of the genus Candida and the development of pathogen resistance to available drugs, the need to find new effective antifungal agents has increased. Azole antifungals, which are inhibitors of sterol-14α-demethylase or CYP51, have been widely used in the treatment of fungal infections over the past two decades. Of special interest is the study of C. krusei CYP51, since this fungus exhibit resistance not only to azoles, but also to other antifungal drugs and there is no available information about the ligand-binding properties of CYP51 of this pathogen. We expressed recombinant C. krusei CYP51 in E. coli cells and obtained a highly purified protein. Application of the method of spectrophotometric titration allowed us to study the interaction of C. krusei CYP51 with various ligands. In the present work, the interaction of C. krusei CYP51 with azole inhibitors, and natural and synthesized steroid derivatives was evaluated. The obtained data indicate that the resistance of C. krusei to azoles is not due to the structural features of CYP51 of this microorganism, but rather to another mechanism. Promising ligands that demonstrated sufficiently strong binding in the micromolar range to C. krusei CYP51 were identified, including compounds 99 (Kd = 1.02 ± 0.14 µM) and Ch-4 (Kd = 6.95 ± 0.80 µM). The revealed structural features of the interaction of ligands with the active site of C. krusei CYP51 can be taken into account in the further development of new selective modulators of the activity of this enzyme.
Empowering Renal Cancer Management with AI and Digital Pathology: Pathology, Diagnostics and Prognosis
Authors: Ivanova Elena , Fayzullin Alexey , Grinin Victor , Ermilov Dmitry , Arutyunyan Alexander , Timashev Peter , Shekhter Anatoly
Published: October 2023

Renal cell carcinoma is a significant health burden worldwide, necessitating accurate and efficient diagnostic methods to guide treatment decisions. Traditional pathology practices have limitations, including interobserver variability and time-consuming evaluations. In recent years, digital pathology tools emerged as a promising solution to enhance the diagnosis and management of renal cancer. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and potential of digital pathology in the context of renal cell carcinoma. Through advanced image analysis algorithms, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies facilitate quantification of cellular and molecular markers, leading to improved accuracy and reproducibility in renal cancer diagnosis. Digital pathology platforms empower remote collaboration between pathologists and help with the creation of comprehensive databases for further research and machine learning applications. The integration of digital pathology tools with other diagnostic modalities, such as radiology and genomics, enables a novel multimodal characterization of different types of renal cell carcinoma. With continuous advancements and refinement, AI technologies are expected to play an integral role in diagnostics and clinical decision-making, improving patient outcomes. In this article, we explored the digital pathology instruments available for clear cell, papillary and chromophobe renal cancers from pathologist and data analyst perspectives.
The Role and Therapeutic Implications of Inflammation in the Pathogenesis of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: Ricciardelli Ashley R. , Robledo Ariadna , Fish Jason E. , Kan Peter T. , Harris Tajie H. , Wythe Joshua D.
Published: October 2023

Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) are focal vascular lesions composed of abnormal vascular channels without an intervening capillary network. As a result, high-pressure arterial blood shunts directly into the venous outflow system. These high-flow, low-resistance shunts are composed of dilated, tortuous, and fragile vessels, which are prone to rupture. BAVMs are a leading cause of hemorrhagic stroke in children and young adults. Current treatments for bAVMs are limited to surgery, embolization, and radiosurgery, although even these options are not viable for ~20% of AVM patients due to excessive risk. Critically, inflammation has been suggested to contribute to lesion progression. Here we summarize the current literature discussing the role of the immune system in bAVM pathogenesis and lesion progression, as well as the potential for targeting inflammation to prevent bAVM rupture and intracranial hemorrhage. We conclude by proposing that a dysfunctional endothelium, which harbors the somatic mutations that have been shown to give rise to sporadic bAVMs, may drive disease development and progression by altering the immune status of the brain.
The Antioxidative Effects of Flavones in Hypertensive Disease
Authors: Haynes Alexandria Porcia , Desta Selam , Ahmad Taseer , Neikirk Kit , Hinton Antentor , Bloodworth Nathaniel , Kirabo Annet
Published: October 2023

Hypertension is the leading remediable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the United States. Excess dietary salt consumption, which is a catalyst of hypertension, initiates an inflammatory cascade via activation of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). This pro-inflammatory response is driven primarily by sodium ions (Na+) transporting into APCs by the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) and subsequent NADPH oxidase activation, leading to high levels of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, a well-known catalyst for hypertension-related illness development, disturbs redox homeostasis, which ultimately promotes lipid peroxidation, isolevuglandin production and an inflammatory response. Natural medicinal compounds derived from organic materials that are characterized by their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-mutagenic properties have recently gained traction amongst the pharmacology community due to their therapeutic effects. Flavonoids, a natural phenolic compound, have these therapeutic benefits and can potentially serve as anti-hypertensives. Flavones are a type of flavonoid that have increased anti-inflammatory effects that may allow them to act as therapeutic agents for hypertension, including diosmetin, which is able to induce significant arterial vasodilation in several different animal models. This review will focus on the activity of flavones to illuminate potential preventative and potential therapeutic mechanisms against hypertension.
An Overview of Recent Advances in the Neuroprotective Potentials of Fisetin against Diverse Insults in Neurological Diseases and the Underlying Signaling Pathways
Authors: Tang Xiangwen , Deng Peng , Jiang Yizhen , Zhang Lingling , He Yuqing , Yang Hao
Published: October 2023

The nervous system plays a leading role in the regulation of physiological functions and activities in the body. However, a variety of diseases related to the nervous system have a serious impact on human health. It is increasingly clear that neurological diseases are multifactorial pathological processes involving multiple cellular systems, and the onset of these diseases usually involves a diverse array of molecular mechanisms. Unfortunately, no effective therapy exists to slow down the progression or prevent the development of diseases only through the regulation of a single factor. To this end, it is pivotal to seek an ideal therapeutic approach for challenging the complicated pathological process to achieve effective treatment. In recent years, fisetin, a kind of flavonoid widely existing in fruits, vegetables and other plants, has shown numerous interesting biological activities with clinical potentials including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neurotrophic effects. In addition, fisetin has been reported to have diverse pharmacological properties and neuroprotective potentials against various neurological diseases. The neuroprotective effects were ascribed to its unique biological properties and multiple clinical pharmacological activities associated with the treatment of different neurological disorders. In this review, we summarize recent research progress regarding the neuroprotective potential of fisetin and the underlying signaling pathways of the treatment of several neurological diseases.
Predictive Modeling and Integrated Risk Assessment of Postoperative Mortality and Pneumonia in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients through Clustering and Machine Learning: Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Jong-Ho , Chung Kyung-Min , Lee Jae-Jun , Choi Hyuk-Jai , Kwon Young-Suk
Published: October 2023

This study harnessed machine learning to forecast postoperative mortality (POM) and postoperative pneumonia (PPN) among surgical traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. Our analysis centered on the following key variables: Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), midline brain shift (MSB), and time from injury to emergency room arrival (TIE). Additionally, we introduced innovative clustered variables to enhance predictive accuracy and risk assessment. Exploring data from 617 patients spanning 2012 to 2022, we observed that 22.9% encountered postoperative mortality, while 30.0% faced postoperative pneumonia (PPN). Sensitivity for POM and PPN prediction, before incorporating clustering, was in the ranges of 0.43–0.82 (POM) and 0.54–0.76 (PPN). Following clustering, sensitivity values were 0.47–0.76 (POM) and 0.61–0.77 (PPN). Accuracy was in the ranges of 0.67–0.76 (POM) and 0.70–0.81 (PPN) prior to clustering and 0.42–0.73 (POM) and 0.55–0.73 (PPN) after clustering. Clusters characterized by low GCS, small MSB, and short TIE exhibited a 3.2-fold higher POM risk compared to clusters with high GCS, small MSB, and short TIE. In summary, leveraging clustered variables offers a novel avenue for predicting POM and PPN in TBI patients. Assessing the amalgamated impact of GCS, MSB, and TIE characteristics provides valuable insights for clinical decision making.
Circular RNAs: A New Approach to Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Sciaccotta Raffaele , Murdaca Giuseppe , Caserta Santino , Rizzo Vincenzo , Gangemi Sebastiano , Allegra Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Multiple sclerosis, a condition characterised by demyelination and axonal damage in the central nervous system, is due to autoreactive immune cells that recognise myelin antigens. Alteration of the immune balance can promote the onset of immune deficiencies, loss of immunosurveillance, and/or development of autoimmune disorders such as MS. Numerous enzymes, transcription factors, signal transducers, and membrane proteins contribute to the control of immune system activity. The “transcriptional machine” of eukaryotic cells is a complex system composed not only of mRNA but also of non-coding elements grouped together in the set of non-coding RNAs. Recent studies demonstrate that ncRNAs play a crucial role in numerous cellular functions, gene expression, and the pathogenesis of many immune disorders. The main purpose of this review is to investigate the role of circular RNAs, a previously unknown class of non-coding RNAs, in MS’s pathogenesis. CircRNAs influence post-transcriptional control, expression, and functionality of a microRNA and epigenetic factors, promoting the development of typical MS abnormalities such as neuroinflammation, damage to neuronal cells, and microglial dysfunction. The increase in our knowledge of the role of circRNAs in multiple sclerosis could, in the future, modify the common diagnostic–therapeutic criteria, paving the way to a new vision of this neuroimmune pathology.
Study on Shock-Absorbing Effect of a Double-Story Isolation Structure Considering Soil–Structure Interaction
Authors: Gao Liang , Liu Dewen , Lei Min , Ding Yong , Mu Shian
Published: October 2023

The double-story isolation structure is a novel development based on the mid-story isolation structure. To accurately reflect the seismic response of the double-story isolation structure, this study considers a dynamic elastoplastic analysis model that incorporates soil–structure interaction (SSI). Comparative models of a base-fixed structure and a mid-story isolation structure are also established. The results indicate that the double-story isolation structure has a longer structural period compared to the mid-story isolation structure. Furthermore, the structural period increases as the soil softens and the structure becomes more flexible. When considering SSI on hard soil versus not considering SSI, the double-story isolation structure exhibits smaller base shear, story force, inter-story displacement, maximum acceleration of the top floor, and displacement of the upper isolation layer, indicating the significant shock-absorbing effect of the double-story isolation structure. However, when SSI is considered on soft soil, the shock-absorbing effect of the isolation structure diminishes, and the effectiveness of the double-story isolation structure may not necessarily surpass that of the mid-story isolation structure. In all three soil conditions, the compressive stresses of the isolation bearings in the upper isolation layer of the double-story isolation structure were lower than those in the isolation bearings of the base isolation layer. Additionally, the double-story isolation structure demonstrates reduced compressive stress in the isolation bearings, fewer plastic hinges in the frame, and less stress damage compared to the mid-story isolation structure. Consequently, the risk of overturning damage in the double-story isolation structure is significantly reduced compared to the mid-story isolation structure. The effect of soft ground on structures can be highly detrimental, which should be paid more attention to during the design process. This study offers valuable insights for future research on double-story isolation systems and serves as a reference for the development of high-performance building structures in the future.
Treatment of Naturally Occurring Tendon Disease with Allogeneic Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: A Randomized, Controlled, Triple-Blinded Pilot Study in Horses
Authors: Burk Janina , Wittenberg-Voges Liza , Schubert Susanna , Horstmeier Carolin , Brehm Walter , Geburek Florian
Published: October 2023

The treatment of tendinopathies with multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) is a promising option in equine and human medicine. However, conclusive clinical evidence is lacking. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into clinical treatment efficacy and to identify suitable outcome measures for larger clinical studies. Fifteen horses with early naturally occurring tendon disease were assigned to intralesional treatment with allogeneic adipose-derived MSCs suspended in serum or with serum alone through block randomization (dosage adapted to lesion size). Clinicians and horse owners remained blinded to the treatment during 12 months (seven horses per group) and 18 months (seven MSC-group and five control-group horses) of follow-up including clinical examinations and diagnostic imaging. Clinical inflammation, lameness, and ultrasonography scores improved more over time in the MSC group. The lameness score difference significantly improved in the MSC group compared with the control group after 6 months. In the MSC group, five out of the seven horses were free of re-injuries and back to training until 12 and 18 months. In the control group, three out of the seven horses were free of re-injuries until 12 months. These results suggest that MSCs are effective for the treatment of early-phase tendon disease and provide a basis for a larger controlled study.
Concerns Related to the Consequences of Pediatric Cannabis Use: A 360-Degree View
Authors: Padoan Flavia , Colombrino Chiara , Sciorio Francesca , Piacentini Giorgio , Gaudino Rossella , Pietrobelli Angelo , Pecoraro Luca
Published: October 2023

Cannabis, a plant known for its recreational use, has gained global attention due to its widespread use and addiction potential. Derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, it contains a rich array of phytochemicals concentrated in resin-rich trichomes. The main cannabinoids, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors, influencing various physiological processes. Particularly concerning is its prevalence among adolescents, often driven by the need for social connection and anxiety alleviation. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of cannabis use, its effects, and potential health risks, especially in adolescent consumption. It covers short-term and long-term effects on different body systems and mental health and highlights the need for informed decision making and public health initiatives, particularly regarding adolescent cannabis use.
Illness-Promoting Psychological Processes in Children and Adolescents with Functional Neurological Disorder
Authors: Kozlowska Kasia , Schollar-Root Olivia , Savage Blanche , Hawkes Clare , Chudleigh Catherine , Raghunandan Jyoti , Scher Stephen , Helgeland Helene
Published: October 2023

Previous studies suggest that subjective distress in children with functional neurological disorder (FND) is associated with stress-system dysregulation and modulates aberrant changes in neural networks. The current study documents illness-promoting psychological processes in 76 children with FND (60 girls and 16 boys, aged 10.00−17.08 years) admitted to the Mind–Body Program. The children completed a comprehensive family assessment and self-report measures, and they worked with the clinical team to identify psychological processes during their inpatient admission. A total of 47 healthy controls (35 girls and 12 boys, aged 8.58–17.92 years) also completed self-report measures, but were not assessed for illness-promoting psychological processes. Children with FND (vs. controls) reported higher levels of subjective distress (total DASS score, t(104.24) = 12.18; p ˂ 0.001) and more adverse childhood experiences across their lifespans (total ELSQ score, t(88.57) = 9.38; p ˂ 0.001). Illness-promoting psychological processes were identified in all children with FND. Most common were the following: chronic worries about schoolwork, friendships, or parental wellbeing (n = 64; 84.2%); attention to symptoms (n = 61; 80.3%); feeling sad (n = 58; 76.3%); experiencing a low sense of control (helplessness) in relation to symptoms (n = 44; 57.9%); pushing difficult thoughts out of mind (n = 44; 57.9%); self-critical rumination (n = 42; 55.3%); negative/catastrophic-symptom expectations (n = 40; 52.6%); avoidance of activities (n = 38; 50%); intrusive thoughts/feelings/memories associated with adverse events (n = 38, 50%); and pushing difficult feelings out of mind (n = 37; 48.7%). In children with FND—disabled enough to be admitted for inpatient treatment—illness-promoting psychological processes are part of the clinical presentation. They contribute to the child’s ongoing sense of subjective distress, and if not addressed can maintain the illness process. A range of clinical interventions used to address illness-promoting psychological processes are discussed, along with illustrative vignettes.
Mothers’ and Children’s Mental Distress and Family Strain during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Janelle Boram , Ross Kharah M. , Ntanda Henry , Fiest Kirsten M. , Letourneau Nicole ,   the APrON Study Team
Published: October 2023

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had a widespread impact on families with dependent children. To better understand the impact of the pandemic on families’ health and relationships, we examined the association between mothers’ and children’s mental distress and family strain. Methods: Three waves of the COVID-19 Impact Survey were analyzed, collected from a subsample of mother–child pairs (n = 157) from the Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON) longitudinal cohort in Alberta, Canada. Latent class analyses were performed to determine patterns and group memberships in mothers’ and children’s mental distress and family strain. Multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to test associations between mothers’ and children’s mental distress and family strain trajectory classes. Results: Mothers with medium/high levels of mental distress were at increased odds of experiencing high family strain compared to those with low levels of distress (medium aOR = 3.90 [95% CI: 1.08–14.03]; high aOR = 4.57 [95% CI: 1.03–20.25]). The association between children’s mental distress and family strain was not significant (aOR = 1.75 [95% CI: 0.56–5.20]). Conclusion: Mothers’ mental distress, but not children’s, was associated with family strain during the pandemic. More distressed individuals experienced greater family strain over time, suggesting that this association may become a chronic problem.
Relevance of Potential Contributing Factors for the Development and Maintenance of Irritability of Unknown Origin in Pediatric Palliative Care
Authors: Kubek Larissa Alice , Angenendt Nina , Hasan Carola , Zernikow Boris , Wager Julia
Published: October 2023

Potential contributing factors (PCFs) for irritability of an unknown origin (IUO) in children with neurological conditions are identifiable through structured diagnostics. Uncertainty exists regarding the actual relevance of identified PCFs to IUO. Assessments from parents as well as nursing, psycho-social, and medical professionals were used to determine the contribution of different PCFs in the development and maintenance of IUO. For this, individual PCFs of N = 22 inpatient children with IUO were presented to four raters. Descriptive statistics, Kruskal–Wallis tests, and Krippendorff’s alpha were used to determine which PCFs were most relevant to explain IUO and rater agreement. Psycho-social aspects (44.7%), hyperarousal (47.2%), pain (24.6%), and dystonia (18.1%) were identified as the most relevant PCFs for IUO. Descriptively, physicians’ relevance rating regarding psycho-social aspects, hyperarousal, and dystonia deviated the most from the overall group rating. All professional raters considered psycho-social aspects to be more relevant than did parents. Parents rated pain as more relevant than the other raters. Kruskal–Wallis tests showed no significant differences between relevance ratings (H = 7.42, p = 0.059) or the four parties’ deviations (H = 3.32, p = 0.344). A direct comparison of the six two-party constellations showed that across all factors, agreement was weak to moderate. The highest agreement was between physicians and nurses (α = 0.70), and the lowest was between nurses and psycho-social experts (α = 0.61). Understanding which psycho-social and various biological PCFs are significant for IUO can facilitate more targeted and individualized pediatric palliative care for affected patients.
Clinical Characteristics and Immune Responses in Children with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia during Pneumonia Episodes: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Lu Danli , Yang Wenhao , Zhang Rui , Li Yan , Cheng Tianyu , Liao Yue , Chen Lina , Liu Hanmin
Published: October 2023

Objective: This study explored the clinical features and immune responses of children with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) during pneumonia episodes. Methods: The 61 children with PCD who were admitted to hospital because of pneumonia were retrospectively enrolled into this study between April 2017 and August 2022. A total of 61 children with pneumonia but without chronic diseases were enrolled as the control group. The clinical characteristics, levels of inflammatory indicators, pathogens, and imaging features of the lungs were compared between the two groups. Results: The PCD group had higher levels of lymphocytes (42.80% versus 36.00%, p = 0.029) and eosinophils (2.40% versus 1.25%, p = 0.020), but lower neutrophil counts (3.99 versus 5.75 × 109/L, p = 0.011), percentages of neutrophils (46.39% versus 54.24%, p = 0.014), CRP (0.40 versus 4.20 mg/L, p < 0.001) and fibrinogen (257.50 versus 338.00 mg/dL, p = 0.010) levels. Children with PCD and children without chronic diseases were both most commonly infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae (24.6% versus 51.9%). Children with PCD had significantly more common imaging features, including mucous plugging (p = 0.042), emphysema (p = 0.007), bronchiectasis (p < 0.001), mosaic attenuation (p = 0.012), interstitial inflammation (p = 0.015), and sinusitis (p < 0.001). Conclusion: PCD is linked to immune system impairment, which significantly contributes to our understanding of the pathophysiology of this entity.
Enhancing Automated Scoring of Math Self-Explanation Quality Using LLM-Generated Datasets: A Semi-Supervised Approach
Authors: Nakamoto Ryosuke , Flanagan Brendan , Yamauchi Taisei , Dai Yiling , Takami Kyosuke , Ogata Hiroaki
Published: October 2023

In the realm of mathematics education, self-explanation stands as a crucial learning mechanism, allowing learners to articulate their comprehension of intricate mathematical concepts and strategies. As digital learning platforms grow in prominence, there are mounting opportunities to collect and utilize mathematical self-explanations. However, these opportunities are met with challenges in automated evaluation. Automatic scoring of mathematical self-explanations is crucial for preprocessing tasks, including the categorization of learner responses, identification of common misconceptions, and the creation of tailored feedback and model solutions. Nevertheless, this task is hindered by the dearth of ample sample sets. Our research introduces a semi-supervised technique using the large language model (LLM), specifically its Japanese variant, to enrich datasets for the automated scoring of mathematical self-explanations. We rigorously evaluated the quality of self-explanations across five datasets, ranging from human-evaluated originals to ones devoid of original content. Our results show that combining LLM-based explanations with mathematical material significantly improves the model’s accuracy. Interestingly, there is an optimal limit to how many synthetic self-explanation data can benefit the system. Exceeding this limit does not further improve outcomes. This study thus highlights the need for careful consideration when integrating synthetic data into solutions, especially within the mathematics discipline.
Potential Hotspots of Hamadryas Baboon–Human Conflict in Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Ghanem , Alzahrani Abdulaziz , Al-Ghamdi Saleh , Alghamdi Salihah , Al-Ghamdi Abdullah , Alzahrani Wael , Zinner Dietmar
Published: October 2023

In recent decades, conflicts between hamadryas baboons (Papio hamadryas) and the rapidly growing human population in the mountainous areas of Western, Southwestern, and Southern Saudi Arabia have accelerated. This conflict, historically occurring mainly between farmers and baboons, has now moved to the urbanized areas in the baboon range and is mainly caused by the common use of spatial and other resources by baboons and humans. The goal of this study was to describe the spatial distribution of baboon groups and to estimate the population size of baboons in the Al-Baha region. The results indicate that baboons are present in all administrative areas of the Al-Baha region with a concentration along the mountain chain running from northwest to southeast and the western part of the region. As expected, rubbish dumps constitute baboon hotspots due to the large amounts of human-derived food. However, the baboons also travel into towns for foraging. The prevention of baboon accessibility to human-derived food would be an important step to reduce causes of conflicts between humans and baboons.
Panel Regression Modelling for COVID-19 Infections and Deaths in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Arunachalam Rajarathinam
Published: October 2023

The impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have been extremely severe, with both economic and health crises experienced worldwide. Based on the panel regression model, this study examined the trends and correlations in the number of COVID-19-related deaths and the number of COVID-19-infected cases in all 37 regions of the Tamil Nadu state in India, in August 2020. The fixed effects model had the greatest R2 value of 78% and exhibited significant results. The slope coefficient was also highly significant, showing a considerable variation in the relationship between new COVID-19 cases and deaths. Additionally, for every unit increase in COVID-19-infected cases, the death rate increased by 0.02%.
DataPLAN: A Web-Based Data Management Plan Generator for the Plant Sciences
Authors: Zhou Xiao-Ran , Beier Sebastian , Brilhaus Dominik , Martins Rodrigues Cristina , Mühlhaus Timo , von Suchodoletz Dirk , Twyman Richard M. , Usadel Björn , Kranz Angela
Published: October 2023

Research data management (RDM) combines a set of practices for the organization, storage and preservation of data from research projects. The RDM strategy of a project is usually formalized as a data management plan (DMP)—a document that sets out procedures to ensure data findability, accessibility, interoperability and reusability (FAIR-ness). Many aspects of RDM are standardized across disciplines so that data and metadata are reusable, but the components of DMPs in the plant sciences are often disconnected. The inability to reuse plant-specific DMP content across projects and funding sources requires additional time and effort to write unique DMPs for different settings. To address this issue, we developed DataPLAN—an open-source tool incorporating prewritten DMP content for the plant sciences that can be used online or offline to prepare multiple DMPs. The current version of DataPLAN supports Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe projects, as well as projects funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). Furthermore, DataPLAN offers the option for users to customize their own templates. Additional templates to accommodate other funding schemes will be added in the future. DataPLAN reduces the workload needed to create or update DMPs in the plant sciences by presenting standardized RDM practices optimized for different funding contexts.
Fabaceae: South African Medicinal Plant Species Used in the Treatment and Management of Sexually Transmitted and Related Opportunistic Infections Associated with HIV-AIDS
Authors: Mongalo Nkoana Ishmael , Raletsena Maropeng Vellry
Published: October 2023

The use of medicinal plants, particularly in the treatment of sexually transmitted and related infections, is ancient. These plants may well be used as alternative and complementary medicine to a variety of antibiotics that may possess limitations mainly due to an emerging enormous antimicrobial resistance. Several computerized database literature sources such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, Scielo, PubMed, and Google Scholar were used to retrieve information on Fabaceae species used in the treatment and management of sexually transmitted and related infections in South Africa. The other information was sourced from various academic dissertations, theses, and botanical books. A total of 42 medicinal plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family, used in the treatment of sexually transmitted and related opportunistic infections associated with HIV-AIDS, have been documented. Trees were the most reported life form, yielding 47.62%, while Senna and Vachellia were the frequently cited genera yielding six and three species, respectively. Peltophorum africanum Sond. was the most preferred medicinal plant, yielding a frequency of citation of 14, while Vachellia karoo (Hayne) Banfi and Glasso as well as Elephantorrhiza burkei Benth. yielded 12 citations each. The most frequently used plant parts were roots, yielding 57.14%, while most of the plant species were administered orally after boiling (51.16%) until the infection subsided. Amazingly, many of the medicinal plant species are recommended for use to treat impotence (29.87%), while most common STI infections such as chlamydia (7.79%), gonorrhea (6.49%), syphilis (5.19%), genital warts (2.60%), and many other unidentified STIs that may include “Makgoma” and “Divhu” were less cited. Although there are widespread data on the in vitro evidence of the use of the Fabaceae species in the treatment of sexually transmitted and related infections, there is a need to explore the in vivo studies to further ascertain the use of species as a possible complementary and alternative medicine to the currently used antibiotics in both developing and underdeveloped countries. Furthermore, the toxicological profiles of many of these studies need to be further explored. The safety and efficacy of over-the-counter pharmaceutical products developed using these species also need to be explored.
Dataset: Biodiversity of Ground Beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) of the Republic of Mordovia (Russia)
Authors: Egorov Leonid V. , Aleksanov Viktor V. , Alekseev Sergei K. , Ruchin Alexander B. , Artaev Oleg N. , Esin Mikhail N. , Lukiyanov Sergei V. , Lobachev Evgeniy A. , Semishin Gennadiy B.
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Carabidae is one of the most diverse families of Coleoptera. Many species of Carabidae are sensitive to anthropogenic impacts and are indicators of their environmental state. Some species of large beetles are on the verge of extinction. The aim of this research is to describe the Carabidae fauna of the Republic of Mordovia (central part of European Russia); (2) Methods: The research was carried out in April-September 1979, 1987, 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007–2022. Collections were performed using a variety of methods (light trapping, soil traps, window traps, etc.). For each observation, the coordinates of the sampling location, abundance, and dates were recorded; (3) Results: The dataset contains data on 251 species of Carabidae from 12 subfamilies and 4576 occurrences. A total of 66,378 specimens of Carabidae were studied. Another 29 species are additionally known from other publications. Also, twenty-two species were excluded from the fauna of the region, as they were determined earlier by mistake (4). Conclusions: The biodiversity of Carabidae in the Republic of Mordovia included 280 species from 12 subfamilies. Four species (Agonum scitulum, Lebia scapularis, Bembidion humerale, and Bembidion tenellum) were identified for the first time in the Republic of Mordovia.
Correction: Gurrola Arrieta, M.d.J.; Botez, R.M. Improved Local Scale Generic Cycle Model for Aerothermodynamic Simulations of Gas Turbine Engines for Propulsion. Designs 2022, 6, 91
Authors: Gurrola Arrieta Manuel de Jesús , Botez Ruxandra Mihaela
Published: October 2023

In the published paper [...]
A Narrative Review of the Tale of the Dysbiotic Microbiome in the Preterm Neonate
Authors: Sowden Marwyn , van Niekerk Evette , Bulabula Andre Nyandwe Hamama , van Weissenbruch Mirjam Maria
Published: October 2023

Background: Researchers have established that the preterm neonate is born with an immature gastrointestinal tract. The preterm neonate is thus susceptible to various complications often seen in the neonatal intensive care unit, e.g., feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. These complications can be life-threatening, and if survived, can have an unfavorable effect on the neonate’s growth and development. Aim: The aims of this narrative review article were to provide an in-depth understanding of the various factors contributing to the development of the preterm neonatal microbiome. Further, we reviewed gastrointestinal microbiome dysbiosis and its potential role in the development of feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. Lastly, we described the potential role of probiotics in this vulnerable population. Methods: A PubMed database search was conducted identifying articles that describe the development and function of the neonatal microbiome, the role of gastrointestinal dysbiosis, and the development of neonatal complications as well as the role of probiotics in gastrointestinal dysbiosis. Results: Various maternal, neonatal, and environmental factors play a role in the development of gastrointestinal dysbiosis in the preterm neonate. This can lead to feeding intolerances, necrotizing enterocolitis, and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. Discussion: The pathogenesis of the development of short-term complications in the preterm neonate can be linked to the immaturity of the host immune system as well as alterations seen in the intestinal microbiome. There is a growing body of evidence that probiotics can play a role in preventing dysbiosis and thus complications observed in the preterm neonate. However, the optimal combination of probiotic strains and dosage still needs to be identified.
Reading Comprehension: An Essential Process for the Development of Critical Thinking
Authors: Medranda-Morales Narcisa , Palacios Mieles Victoria Dalila , Villalba Guevara Marco
Published: October 2023

People have the right to receive a quality of education that promotes, among other things, reading comprehension and the development of critical thinking. In Ecuador, there is a need to implement strategies and design educational programs to encourage and facilitate the development of these skills. This research focuses on the relationship between reading comprehension and the development of critical thinking, with a particular interest in the education of high school students in Ecuador. This research aims to analyze the relationship between reading comprehension and critical thinking, based on the experiences of a sample of high school students of both genders, aged between 12 and 16 years, from five schools in different regions of Ecuador. The study adopts a quantitative, retrospective, and correlational approach. The surveys, administered to a sample of students, showed that teachers actively encourage reading and implement timely educational strategies and teaching methods to develop critical thinking, recognizing its crucial role in future professional performance.