bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skeletal stem/progenitor cells provide the niche for extramedullary hematopoiesis in spleen
Authors: O’Neill Helen C. , Lim Hong Kiat
Published: March 2023

In bone marrow, the niche which supports hematopoiesis and nurtures hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) contains perivascular reticular cells representing a subset of skeletal stem/progenitor cells (SSPCs). These stromal cells which provide the niche are lost or become inadequate during stress, disease or ageing, such that HSCs leave bone marrow and enter spleen and other peripheral sites to initiate extramedullary hematopoiesis and particularly myelopoiesis. Spleen also maintains niches for HSCs under steady-state conditions, evident since neonatal and adult spleen contain HSCs in low number and provide low-level hematopoiesis. In spleen, HSCs are found in the sinusoidal-rich red pulp region also in the vicinity of perivascular reticular cells. These cells resemble to some extent the known stromal elements reflecting HSC niches in bone marrow, and are investigated here for their characteristics as a subset of SSPCs. The isolation of spleen stromal subsets and the generation of cell lines which support HSCs and myelopoiesis in vitro has led to the identification of perivascular reticular cells which are unique to spleen. Analysis of gene and marker expression, as well as differentiative potential, identifies an osteoprogenitor cell type, reflective of one of several subsets of SSPCs described previously in bone, bone marrow and adipose tissue. The combined information supports a model for HSC niches in spleen involving perivascular reticular cells as SSPCs having osteogenic, stroma-forming capacity. These associate with sinusoids in red pulp to form niches for HSCs and to support the differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors during extramedullary hematopoiesis.
Uncovering the unique characteristics of the mandible to improve clinical approaches to mandibular regeneration
Authors: Soares Ana Prates , Fischer Heilwig , Aydin Sabrin , Steffen Claudius , Schmidt-Bleek Katharina , Rendenbach Carsten
Published: March 2023

The mandible (lower jaw) bone is aesthetically responsible for shaping the lower face, physiologically in charge of the masticatory movements, and phonetically accountable for the articulation of different phonemes. Thus, pathologies that result in great damage to the mandible severely impact the lives of patients. Mandibular reconstruction techniques are mainly based on the use of flaps, most notably free vascularized fibula flaps. However, the mandible is a craniofacial bone with unique characteristics. Its morphogenesis, morphology, physiology, biomechanics, genetic profile, and osteoimmune environment are different from any other non-craniofacial bone. This fact is especially important to consider during mandibular reconstruction, as all these differences result in unique clinical traits of the mandible that can impact the results of jaw reconstructions. Furthermore, overall changes in the mandible and the flap post-reconstruction may be dissimilar, and the replacement process of the bone graft tissue during healing can take years, which in some cases can result in postsurgical complications. Therefore, the present review highlights the uniqueness of the jaw and how this factor can influence the outcome of its reconstruction while using an exemplary clinical case of pseudoarthrosis in a free vascularized fibula flap.
Molecular identification of phenylalanine ammonia lyase-encoding genes EfPALs and EfPAL2-interacting transcription factors in Euryale ferox
Authors: Liu AiLian , Zhu Yue , Wang YuHao , Wang TianYu , Zhao ShuPing , Feng Kai , Li LiangJun , Wu Peng
Published: March 2023

Flavonoids are one of the most important secondary metabolites in plants, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) is the first rate-limiting enzyme for their biosynthesis. However, detailed information on the regulation of PAL in plants is still little. In this study, PAL in E. ferox was identified and functionally analyzed, and its upstream regulatory network was investigated. Through genome-wide identification, we obtained 12 putative PAL genes from E. ferox. Phylogenetic tree and synteny analysis revealed that PAL in E. ferox was expanded and mostly preserved. Subsequently, enzyme activity assays demonstrated that EfPAL1 and EfPAL2 both catalyzed the production of cinnamic acid from phenylalanine only, with EfPAL2 exhibiting a superior enzyme activity. Overexpression of EfPAL1 and EfPAL2 in Arabidopsis thaliana, respectively, both enhanced the biosynthesis of flavonoids. Furthermore, two transcription factors, EfZAT11 and EfHY5, were identified by yeast one-hybrid library assays as binding to the promoter of EfPAL2, and further luciferase (LUC) activity analysis indicated that EfZAT11 promoted the expression of EfPAL2, while EfHY5 repressed the expression of EfPAL2. These results suggested that EfZAT11 and EfHY5 positively and negatively regulate flavonoid biosynthesis, respectively. Subcellular localization revealed that EfZAT11 and EfHY5 were localized in the nucleus. Our findings clarified the key EfPAL1 and EfPAL2 of flavonoid biosynthesis in E. ferox and established the upstream regulatory network of EfPAL2, which would provide novel information for the study of flavonoid biosynthesis mechanism.
DNA primase large subunit is an essential plant gene for geminiviruses, putatively priming viral ss-DNA replication
Authors: Siskos Lampros , Antoniou Maria , Riado Jose , Enciso Montserrat , Garcia Carlos , Liberti Daniele , Esselink Danny , Baranovskiy Andrey G. , Tahirov Tahir H. , Visser Richard G. F. , Kormelink Richard , Bai Yuling , Schouten Henk J.
Published: March 2023

The family of Geminiviridae consists of more than 500 circular single-stranded (ss) DNA viral species that can infect numerous dicot and monocot plants. Geminiviruses replicate their genome in the nucleus of a plant cell, taking advantage of the host’s DNA replication machinery. For converting their DNA into double-stranded DNA, and subsequent replication, these viruses rely on host DNA polymerases. However, the priming of the very first step of this process, i.e. the conversion of incoming circular ssDNA into a dsDNA molecule, has remained elusive for almost 30 years. In this study, sequencing of melon (Cucumis melo) accession K18 carrying the Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) recessive resistance quantitative trait locus (QTL) in chromosome 11, and analyses of DNA sequence data from 100 melon genomes, showed a conservation of a shared mutation in the DNA Primase Large subunit (PRiL) of all accessions that exhibited resistance upon a challenge with ToLCNDV. Silencing of (native) Nicotiana benthamiana PriL and subsequent challenging with three different geminiviruses showed a severe reduction in titers of all three viruses, altogether emphasizing an important role of PRiL in geminiviral replication. A model is presented explaining the role of PriL during initiation of geminiviral DNA replication, i.e. as a regulatory subunit of primase that generates an RNA primer at the onset of DNA replication in analogy to DNA Primase-mediated initiation of DNA replication in all living organisms.
Exploring the sorghum race level diversity utilizing 272 sorghum accessions genomic resources
Authors: Ruperao Pradeep , Gandham Prasad , Odeny Damaris A. , Mayes Sean , Selvanayagam Sivasubramani , Thirunavukkarasu Nepolean , Das Roma R. , Srikanda Manasa , Gandhi Harish , Habyarimana Ephrem , Manyasa Eric , Nebie Baloua , Deshpande Santosh P. , Rathore Abhishek
Published: March 2023

Due to evolutionary divergence, sorghum race populations exhibit significant genetic and morphological variation. A k-mer-based sorghum race sequence comparison identified the conserved k-mers of all 272 accessions from sorghum and the race-specific genetic signatures identified the gene variability in 10,321 genes (PAVs). To understand sorghum race structure, diversity and domestication, a deep learning-based variant calling approach was employed in a set of genotypic data derived from a diverse panel of 272 sorghum accessions. The data resulted in 1.7 million high-quality genome-wide SNPs and identified selective signature (both positive and negative) regions through a genome-wide scan with different (iHS and XP-EHH) statistical methods. We discovered 2,370 genes associated with selection signatures including 179 selective sweep regions distributed over 10 chromosomes. Co-localization of these regions undergoing selective pressure with previously reported QTLs and genes revealed that the signatures of selection could be related to the domestication of important agronomic traits such as biomass and plant height. The developed k-mer signatures will be useful in the future to identify the sorghum race and for trait and SNP markers for assisting in plant breeding programs.
Perennial grass root system specializes for multiple resource acquisitions with differential elongation and branching patterns
Authors: Glass Nicholas T. , Yun Kyungdahm , Dias de Oliveira Eduardo A. , Zare Alina , Matamala Roser , Kim Soo-Hyung , Gonzalez-Meler Miquel
Published: March 2023

Roots optimize the acquisition of limited soil resources, but relationships between root forms and functions have often been assumed rather than demonstrated. Furthermore, how root systems co-specialize for multiple resource acquisitions is unclear. Theory suggests that trade-offs exist for the acquisition of different resource types, such as water and certain nutrients. Measurements used to describe the acquisition of different resources should then account for differential root responses within a single system. To demonstrate this, we grew Panicum virgatum in split-root systems that vertically partitioned high water availability from nutrient availability so that root systems must absorb the resources separately to fully meet plant demands. We evaluated root elongation, surface area, and branching, and we characterized traits using an order-based classification scheme. Plants allocated approximately 3/4th of primary root length towards water acquisition, whereas lateral branches were progressively allocated towards nutrients. However, root elongation rates, specific root length, and mass fraction were similar. Our results support the existence of differential root functioning within perennial grasses. Similar responses have been recorded in many plant functional types suggesting a fundamental relationship. Root responses to resource availability can be incorporated into root growth models via maximum root length and branching interval parameters.
Now or never: Organizational forgetting as a determinant of knowledge sharing and cross-boundary innovation
Authors: Qu Xiaoyu , Khan Adnan , Ali Sajjad
Published: March 2023

This study constructs a theoretical model to test and prove that organizational forgetting influences cross-boundary innovation and testifies to the moderating role of Institutionalized organizational mission in the said relationship. Data was collected through a convenient sampling technique from 353 middle and senior managers of entrepreneurial enterprises in China through online and offline modes. Additionally, we used confirmatory factor analysis, multiple regression, and bootstrap analysis to verify hypotheses using Analysis of a moment structures and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences latest versions. The results show that organizational forgetting has a significantly positive impact on cross-boundary innovation and binary knowledge sharing plays a mediating role in the relationship between organizational forgetting and cross-boundary innovation. Moreover, the mediating effect of exploitative knowledge sharing on the relationship between organizational forgetting and cross-boundary innovation is more substantial than exploratory knowledge sharing. This study separates the impact mechanism of exploitative and exploratory knowledge sharing as a mediator unanimously and proves that Institutionalized organizational mission has a significant moderating role in the relationship between organizational forgetting and cross-boundary innovation. This research offers significant implications for Chinese enterprises to bolster cross-boundary innovation to achieve growth.
Meta-analysis of the relationship between university students' anxiety and academic performance during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic
Authors: Tang Yuxi , He Weiguang
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health and academic performance of university students worldwide. Anxiety is one of the most commonly reported mental health issues among this population, but its relationship with academic performance during the pandemic has not been fully explored.

Methods

A meta-analysis was conducted following the PRISMA-P guidelines to synthesize existing research on the relationship between anxiety and academic performance in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Four databases were searched (PsycINFO, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus) for articles published between December 2019 and June 2022, and studies from five different countries were included in the analysis. A heterogeneity test was performed, and a fixed-effects model was used to calculate the main results.

Results

The meta-analysis revealed a negative correlation between university students' anxiety and academic performance (r = −0.211, k = 5, N = 1,205). Subgroup analysis found no significant regulatory effects for the year of publication, country development level, student type, or anxiety type. The results suggest that negative emotions induced by the pandemic are the most significant factor linking anxiety to poor academic performance.

Discussion

During pandemics with severe global consequences, such as COVID-19, interventions against and for the prevention of university students' negative emotions are important ways to improve university students' mental health and academic achievement.
Talk like me: Exploring the feedback speech rate regulation strategy of the voice user interface for elderly people
Authors: Wang Junfeng , Yang Shuyu , Xu Zhiyu
Published: March 2023

Voice user interface (VUI) is widely used in developing intelligent products due to its low learning cost. However, most of such products do not consider the cognitive and language ability of elderly people, which leads to low interaction efficiency, poor user experience, and unfriendliness to them. Firstly, the paper analyzes the factors which influence the voice interaction behavior of elderly people: speech rate of elderly people, dialog task type, and feedback word count. And then, the voice interaction simulation experiment was designed based on the wizard of Oz testing method. Thirty subjects (M = 61.86 years old, SD = 7.16; 15 males and 15 females) were invited to interact with the prototype of a voice robot through three kinds of dialog tasks and six configurations of the feedback speech rate. Elderly people’s speech rates at which they speak to a person and to a voice robot, the feedback speech rates they expected for three dialog tasks were collected. The correlation between subjects’ speech rate and the expected feedback speech rate, the influence of dialog task type, and feedback word count on elderly people’s expected feedback speech rate were analyzed. The results show that elderly people speak to a voice robot with a lower speech rate than they speak to a person, and they expected the robot feedback speech rate to be lower than the rate they speak to the robot. There is a positive correlation between subjects’ speech rate and the expected speech rate, which implies that elderly people with faster speech rates expected a faster feedback speech rate. There is no significant difference between the elderly people’s expected speech rate for non-goal-oriented and goal-oriented dialog tasks. Meanwhile, a negative correlation between the feedback word count and the expected feedback speech rate is found. This study extends the knowledge boundaries of VUI design by investigating the influencing factors of voice interaction between elderly people and VUI. These results also provide practical implications for developing suitable VUI for elderly people, especially for regulating the feedback speech rate of VUI.
Sustained increase in depression and anxiety among psychiatrically healthy adolescents during late stage COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Cochran Gabe , Cohen Zsofia P. , Paulus Martin P. , Tsuchiyagaito Aki , Kirlic Namik
Published: March 2023

Background

Adolescents have experienced increases in anxiety, depression, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic and may be at particular risk for suffering from long-term mental health consequences because of their unique developmental stage. This study aimed to determine if initial increases in depression and anxiety in a small sample of healthy adolescents after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic were sustained at follow-up during a later stage of the pandemic.

Methods

Fifteen healthy adolescents completed self-report measures at three timepoints (pre-pandemic [T1], early pandemic [T2], and later pandemic [T3]). The sustained effect of COVID-19 on depression and anxiety was examined using linear mixed-effect analyses. An exploratory analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between difficulties in emotion regulation during COVID-19 at T2 and increases in depression and anxiety at T3.

Results

The severity of depression and anxiety was significantly increased at T2 and sustained at T3 (depression: Hedges’ g [T1 to T2] = 1.04, g [T1 to T3] = 0.95; anxiety: g [T1 to T2] = 0.79, g [T1 to T3] = 0.80). This was accompanied by sustained reductions in positive affect, peer trust, and peer communication. Greater levels of difficulties in emotion regulation at T2 were related to greater symptoms of depression and anxiety at T3 (rho = 0.71 to 0.80).

Conclusion

Increased symptoms of depression and anxiety were sustained at the later stage of the pandemic in healthy adolescents. Replication of these findings with a larger sample size would be required to draw firm conclusions.
Global trends in the incidence and mortality of asthma from 1990 to 2019: An age-period-cohort analysis using the global burden of disease study 2019
Authors: Cao Yu , Chen Sanqian , Chen Xiaoyun , Zou Wei , Liu Zhitao , Wu Yuhang , Hu Songbo
Published: March 2023

Background

Asthma is a major global health challenge. The global strategic management and prevention of asthma report has been published, but health system planning for asthma requires a careful assessment of asthma epidemiology. This study described the incidence and mortality of global asthma from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Based on data from the global burden of disease study (GBD) 2019, we present spatial and temporal trends in asthma incidence and mortality for the world and its 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019. Meanwhile, age-period-cohort analysis was used to explore factors influencing asthma incidence and mortality.

Results

From 1990 to 2019, the incidence of asthma decreased from 601.20 per 1,00,000 to 477.92 per 1,00,000, and the mortality of asthma decreased from 8.60 per 1,00,000 to 5.96 per 1,00,000. High sociodemographic index (SDI) areas have higher age-standardised asthma incidence and low sociodemographic index areas have higher age-standardised asthma mortality. The age-period-cohort analysis results showed that the relative risk (RR) of incidence was high in children and the RR of mortality was high in elderly individuals. The RR of both asthma incidence and mortality showed a decreasing trend over time. The RR of asthma incidence in the recent birth cohort was higher than that in the previous birth cohort. The RR of asthma mortality continued to decline with the change in the birth cohort.

Conclusions

Global asthma incidence and mortality decreased from 1990 to 2019. The decline in asthma incidence was mainly attributed to age effects and period effects, and the decline in asthma mortality was mainly attributed to period effects and cohort effects. Focusing on the risk of incidence in children and the risk of mortality in the elderly, promoting healthy lifestyles and controlling environmental risk factors can help to better control asthma.
Relevance of the world health organization in a multipolar world in solving global health challenges
Authors: Dehury Ranjit Kumar
Published: March 2023

There have been many criticisms about the World Health Organization (WHO) in the last decade. In a multipolar world, there are rivalries between nations and geopolitical regions. However, health issues remain outside the murky world of politics due to their far-reaching consequences on human society. The power conferred on the WHO is very significant in protecting the health and well-being of the global population. As a neutral organization, the WHO is supposed to uphold people's rights to health, especially in controlling diseases of international importance. The paper highlighted the significant roles of the WHO in leadership issues, research and development, solving disputes among countries, providing resources for low-performing regions, regulating international health laws, responding to a humanitarian crisis, and communicating during the crisis. Further, evidence from global literature critically analyzed the enforcement role of WHO on international health regulations (IHRs).
Effects of an 8-week Baduanjin intervention combined with low-carbohydrates diet among overweight people who struggle with drug addiction
Authors: Jia Dongming , Xu Yuming
Published: March 2023

Background

Prior studies have consistently revealed that a combination of physical activity with caloric restriction results in a reduction in body weight in the general population. Both overweight and drug abuse are risk factors for poor physiological health, and poor mental health has been associated with drug abuse and unhealthy body mass index (BMI). However, the effects of low-carbohydrates diet (LC) combined with mind-body exercise intervention on improving anthropometric characteristics, lipid metabolism, quality of life, and craving among overweight people who struggle with drug addiction have yet to be clarified.

Methods

Fifty-four eligible male patients were randomly assigned to the control group (CON; n = 18), the Baduanjin intervention group (BA, 60 min × 5 times/week, 8 weeks; n = 18), and the Baduanjin combined with LC intervention group (LC; n = 18). We compared the anthropometric characteristics, blood biochemical parameters, quality of life, and drug craving responses between the three groups at baseline (week 0), week 4, and week 8.

Results

After repeated measurements in the general linear model, both the BA and LC groups exerted significant effects on decreasing waist circumference, BMI, body weight, hip circumference, body fat percentage, total cholesterol level, and triglyceride level (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the HDL-C level observed among the BA and LC groups at 8 weeks (P > 0.05); however, there was an overall upwards trend. A significant change in trends in the quality of life scale score was determined in the three groups (P < 0.001). The three groups showed reductions in visual analog scale score distribution over time (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Either Baduanjin or an 8-week Baduanjin combined with LC can significantly reduce anthropometric characteristics and body composition, enhance the quality of life, and reduce craving in overweight/obese patients. Baduanjin combined with LC is particularly effective in improving lipid metabolism.
Determinants of viral load suppression among orphaned and vulnerable children living with HIV on ART in Tanzania
Authors: Ally Amal , Exavery Amon , Charles John , Kikoyo Levina , Mseya Remmy , Barankena Asheri , Fovo Rose , Temu Akwila
Published: March 2023

Introduction

In Tanzania, only 66% children 0–14 years living with HIV know their HIV status, 66% are on treatment while 47% of children on ART are virally suppressed. Although retention on ART and poor adherence remain a challenge for children living with HIV, orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) face a greater limitation of access to and utilization of comprehensive HIV care and treatment. In response to this, the current study assessed the determinants of viral load suppression (VLS) among OVC aged 0–14 years living with HIV enrolled in HIV interventions.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study that used secondary data collected by the USAID Kizazi Kipya project in 81 district councils of Tanzania. Included in this study are 1,980 orphans and vulnerable children living with HIV (OVCLHIV) (0–14 years) enrolled and served by the project for 24 months. Data analysis involved multivariable logistic regression, with viral load suppression as the outcome of interest and HIV interventions as the main independent variables.

Results

The overall VLS rate among the OVCLHIV was 85.3%. This rate increased from 85.3, 89.9, 97.6 to 98.8% after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of retention on ART, respectively. Similar rates were observed as the duration of adherence to ART increased. In the multivariable analysis, OVCLHIV attending people living with HIV (PLHIV) support groups were 411 times more likely to be virally suppressed than those not attending (aOR = 411.25, 95% CI 168.2–1,005.4). OVCLHIV with health insurance were 6 times more likely to achieve viral suppression than those without (aOR = 6.05, 95% CI 3.28–11.15). OVCLHIV with >95% adherence to ART were 149 times more likely to be virally suppressed than those not adherent to ART (aOR = 148.96, 95% CI 42.6–520.6, p < 0.001). Other significant factors included food security and family size. OVCLHIV reached by the different HIV community-based interventions were more likely to be virally suppressed than those who were not.

Discussion

To advance viral suppression, efforts should be made to ensure that all OVCLHIV are reached by community-based interventions as well as integrating food support in HIV treatment interventions.
Using gait videos to automatically assess anxiety
Authors: Wen Yeye , Li Baobin , Liu Xiaoqian , Chen Deyuan , Gao Shaoshuai , Zhu Tingshao
Published: March 2023

Background

In recent years, the number of people with anxiety disorders has increased worldwide. Methods for identifying anxiety through objective clues are not yet mature, and the reliability and validity of existing modeling methods have not been tested. The objective of this paper is to propose an automatic anxiety assessment model with good reliability and validity.

Methods

This study collected 2D gait videos and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale data from 150 participants. We extracted static and dynamic time-domain features and frequency-domain features from the gait videos and used various machine learning approaches to build anxiety assessment models. We evaluated the reliability and validity of the models by comparing the influence of factors such as the frequency-domain feature construction method, training data size, time-frequency features, gender, and odd and even frame data on the model.

Results

The results show that the number of wavelet decomposition layers has a significant impact on the frequency-domain feature modeling, while the size of the gait training data has little impact on the modeling effect. In this study, the time-frequency features contributed to the modeling, with the dynamic features contributing more than the static features. Our model predicts anxiety significantly better in women than in men (rMale = 0.666, rFemale = 0.763, p < 0.001). The best correlation coefficient between the model prediction scores and scale scores for all participants is 0.725 (p < 0.001). The correlation coefficient between the model prediction scores for odd and even frame data is 0.801~0.883 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study shows that anxiety assessment based on 2D gait video modeling is reliable and effective. Moreover, we provide a basis for the development of a real-time, convenient and non-invasive automatic anxiety assessment method.
“Nothing is ever going to change if we don't start advocating for our child.”: Community-level disclosure and stigma management strategies among parents of internationally adopted children living with PHIV
Authors: Bingaman Amanda , Hamilton Alison , Houpt Bethany , Olivero Rosemary , Fair Cynthia
Published: March 2023

Background

The number of internationally adopted children living with perinatally-acquired HIV (IACP) in the U.S. is increasing, yet little is known about their families' experiences navigating HIV disclosure within a community context. This paper examines the lived experiences of adoptive parents as they navigate HIV disclosure and manage stigma toward their adopted children within their broader communities.

Methods

A purposive sample of parents of IACP was recruited at two pediatric infectious disease clinics and via closed Facebook groups. Parents completed two semi-structured interviews approximately one year apart. Interview questions included strategies parents used to reduce the impact of community level stigma that their child is likely to encounter as they mature. Interviews were analyzed using Sort and Sift, Think and Shift analytic approach. All parents (n = 24) identified as white and most (n = 17) had interracial families, with children adopted from 11 different countries (range: age at adoption 1-15 years; range: age at first interview 2-19 years).

Results

Analyses revealed that parents serve as advocates for their child by both supporting more public HIV disclosure at times, but also applying indirect strategies such as working to improve outdated sex education material. Knowledge of HIV disclosure laws empowered parents to make informed decisions about who, if anyone, in the community needed to know their child's HIV status.

Conclusion

Families with IACP would benefit from HIV disclosure support/training and community-based HIV stigma reduction interventions.
Factors influencing adherence to lifestyle prescriptions among patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A qualitative study using the health action process approach framework
Authors: Wang Lina , Zhou Huixuan , Liu Yali , Wang Xin , Yan Wenjing , Zhang Jing , Ren Hong
Published: March 2023

Background and objective

Lifestyle modifications aimed at weight loss have been introduced as a cornerstone of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) management. However, very few patients follow the doctor's prescription to change their lifestyle to achieve weight loss in the real world. The purpose of this study was to use the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) model to examine the factors that affect adherence to lifestyle prescriptions among patients with NAFLD.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients with NAFLD. Reflexive thematic analysis and framework analysis were used to determine naturally identified themes and allocate them to theoretically driven domains.

Results

Thirty adult patients with NAFLD were interviewed, and the identified themes were mapped directly onto the constructs of the HAPA model. This study revealed that key barriers to adhering to lifestyle prescriptions are related to the coping strategy and outcome expectation constructs of the HAPA model. For physical activity, conditional limits, lack of time, symptoms such as fatigue and poor physical fitness, and fear of sports injury are the primary barriers. Barriers to diet are mainly diet environment, mental stress, and food cravings. Key facilitators for adherence to lifestyle prescriptions include developing simple and specific action plans, coping strategies to flexibly deal with obstacles and difficulties, receiving regular feedback from doctors to improve self-efficacy, and using regular tests and behavior recording to enhance action control.

Conclusions

Future lifestyle intervention programs should pay particular attention to the planning, self-efficacy, and action control-related constructors of the HAPA model to promote the adherence of patients with NAFLD to lifestyle prescriptions.
Bibliometric and visual analysis of machine learning-based research in acute kidney injury worldwide
Authors: Yu Xiang , Wu RiLiGe , Ji YuWei , Feng Zhe
Published: March 2023

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious clinical complication associated with adverse short-term and long-term outcomes. In recent years, with the rapid popularization of electronic health records and artificial intelligence machine learning technology, the detection rate and treatment of AKI have been greatly improved. At present, there are many studies in this field, and a large number of articles have been published, but we do not know much about the quality of research production in this field, as well as the focus and trend of current research.

Methods

Based on the Web of Science Core Collection, studies reporting machine learning-based AKI research that were published from 2013 to 2022 were retrieved and collected after manual review. VOSviewer and other software were used for bibliometric visualization analysis, including publication trends, geographical distribution characteristics, journal distribution characteristics, author contributions, citations, funding source characteristics, and keyword clustering.

Results

A total of 336 documents were analyzed. Since 2018, publications and citations have increased dramatically, with the United States (143) and China (101) as the main contributors. Regarding authors, Bihorac, A and Ozrazgat-Baslanti, T from the University of Florida have published 10 articles. Regarding institutions, the University of California (18) had the most publications. Approximately 1/3 of the publications were published in Q1 and Q2 journals, of which Scientific Reports (19) was the most prolific journal. Tomašev et al.'s study that was published in 2019 has been widely cited by researchers. The results of cluster analysis of co-occurrence keywords suggest that the construction of AKI prediction model related to critical patients and sepsis patients is the research frontier, and XGBoost algorithm is also popular.

Conclusion

This study first provides an updated perspective on machine learning-based AKI research, which may be beneficial for subsequent researchers to choose suitable journals and collaborators and may provide a more convenient and in-depth understanding of the research basis, hotspots and frontiers.
Observing the behavioural effects of methylphenidate in children and adolescents with ASD-ADHD dual diagnosis: A mini review
Authors: Dimitri Danilo , Delia Giuliana , Arduino Maurizio , Turco Nazarena , Fioretto Franco
Published: March 2023

Research aim

The aim of this study is to focus on the main neurophysiological aspects of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the current pharmacological treatment used for the management of hyperactivity and attention deficits in children aged 6-20 years with a diagnosis of ASD, not associated with other genetic or epileptic disorders, such as Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), Tuberous Sclerosis, Kleefstra Syndrome or Angelman Syndrome.

Methods

This mini review was conducted according to the P.I.C.O. model and according to the PRISMA guidelines. The keywords used were: autism spectrum disorder; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; attention deficit disorder; methylphenidate; ritalin; ADHD; youth autism; childhood autism; childhood autism spectrum disorder; adolescent autism. The strings produced were compared and selected by a third independent clinician. The PubMed and PsycArticles search yielded a total of 3,200 articles. For their inclusion, the 3,200 articles were examined by two clinicians who ultimately selected 28 (15 clinical trials and 13 reviews/meta-analyses) articles analysed according to their consistency with the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Conclusions

Three main aspects emerged from the review: (1) According to the existing literature, new randomized controlled trials are needed to ensure a better understanding of the most effective drug treatments for dual-diagnosed ASD-ADHD patients and of the related behavioural effects. Currently, the use of drugs varies depending on psychiatric comorbidity, symptoms, age and gender and there is no univocal reference therapy; (2) Methylphenidate (MPH) has currently been shown to be the most suitable drug for the treatment of hyperactivity and inattention in individuals diagnosed with ASD and ADHD; (3) There is a need to create and evaluate appropriate tests to analyse more specific patterns of behaviour presented in the two conditions.
Cost-benefit analysis of mitigating subsidence damage in Semarang and Demak, Indonesia
Authors: Pratiwi Berlian A. , Kok Sien , Kaiser Brooks Alexandra , Mahya Muthia J.
Published: March 2023

Since the early 1990s, the coastal Semarang City in Indonesia has been undergoing rapid industrialization and population expansion. To meet growing water demand, groundwater is abstracted with an ever-increasing number of abstraction wells. This has led to lower groundwater tables in the largely unconsolidated substrate and this, in turn, causes land subsidence in the area. This has led to significant direct and indirect economic damage. In the context of limited public resources, this study aims to analyze the economic rationale of alternative (public) investment strategies to reduce subsidence impact in the Semarang-Demak region. With Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), three alternative strategies to replace groundwater abstraction wells are analyzed: (1) Installment of a piped clean water supply system with 1,000 L/s capacity, (2) a new 2 km2 coastal freshwater reservoir in West Semarang, (3) installment of a piped clean water supply system with 2,000 L/s capacity. All strategies have a positive (>1) benefit-cost ratio, which indicates that there is an economic rationale for investment to mitigate subsidence in Semarang and Demak. Under a low water demand scenario, the best strategy is strategy 1; under a high water demand scenario, the best strategy is strategy 3. As strategy 3 gives the highest economic benefit in the worst-case scenario, this is the most robust strategy.
The pressures and opportunities for coral reef preservation and restoration in the Maldives
Authors: Hilmi Nathalie , Basu Ritu , Crisóstomo Matías , Lebleu Lara , Claudet Joachim , Seveso Davide
Published: March 2023

The ocean plays a fundamental role in the human wellbeing and development. Therefore, it is vital to preserve and restore the marine ecosystem services that are being damage through climate change and anthropic activities, even more in countries such as the Maldives that has been classified under a high degree of exposure and vulnerability. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the problems facing coral reefs in the Maldives through relevant scientific insights; outline the importance of reef conservation in this area, given their ecosystem services; and briefly discuss policies and mitigation plans for reef conservation in the Maldives against anthropic activities and climate change, including potential funding sources and how best to engage with local communities and other stakeholders in this effort. This will help to achieve several SDGs.
Current management strategies of urachal anomalies in pediatric patients: A scoping review
Authors: Ghattas Yasmine S. , Gelikman David G. , Ibanez Kristen R. , Ellsworth Pamela , Seth Abhishek
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Management of urachal anomalies in pediatric patients has historically lacked a clear consensus between conservative and surgical management. We aimed to review and summarize the literature on the diagnosis, symptoms, and evolution in the management of urachal anomalies in pediatric patients.

Methods

We performed a scoping literature review of PubMed/Medline and WebOfScience from January 2000 to February 2022.

Results

32 publications were selected for inclusion in this analysis. 1,438 unique studies were identified with 32 studies meeting inclusion criteria. 15/32 studies discussed both conservative and surgical management, 14/32 studies discussed only surgical management outcomes, and 3/32 studies discussed diagnostic methods. The studies discussing conservative management supported the treatment of urachal anomalies with an initial conservative approach, which includes watchful waiting, repeated ultrasounds, lesion measurement, and antibiotic use. 5/32 of the included studies identified patients that were converted from conservative to surgical management with conversion rates ranging from 12.5% to 43.5% per study. 14/20 converted patients were identified to have a urachal cyst and 13/20 had a persistent infection.

Conclusions

Strong evidence exists that supports initial conservative management over surgical management of pediatric urachal anomalies. However, predictive factors for determining which patients will require surgical management remain elusive. Treatment algorithms can potentially be developed once carefully developed prospective studies delineate statistically significant patient factors which necessitate surgical management over observation.
Employment impacts of industrial transformation in China: A case study of Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Hu Zijiang , Zhang Xiao , Yue Chen , Huang Yiye , Sun Ling , Huo Yang
Published: March 2023

The United Nations formally adopted 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) at the summit in 2015. With the goal of SDGs, China has formulated the “3,060” dual carbon target, that is, to achieve a carbon peak before 2030 and carbon neutrality before 2060. Consequently, this goal will direct positive changes in industrial transformation, and employment quality will be impacted. In this article, 106 listed manufacturing enterprises in the Yangtze River Delta are selected to explore the impacts of industrial transformation and just transition on employment. The result shows that the industrial transformation has no significant promoting effect on employment quality in state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and just transition has no significant moderating effect. However, in private enterprises, industrial transformation has a significant negative impact on employment equality. Moreover, employee training can alleviate the negative impact of industrial transformation on employment quality. On the contrary, employee welfare will play a negative moderating role. The conclusions of this research can help enterprises make better strategies to guarantee the interests of employees and stimulate staff. In addition, the government should advise relevant enterprises to transform steadily.
Nephron sparing surgery for a patient with a complicated solitary functioning kidney and a giant pT3 renal cell carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Yu Minghao , Zhou Jiatong , Shangguan Xun , Qian Subo , Ding Jie , Qi Jun
Published: March 2023

A solitary functioning kidney (SFK) with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is an imperative indication for nephron-sparing surgery (NSS). Nevertheless, a giant pT3 RCC mass (maximum diameter >20 cm) on the functioning side of a patient with SFK is extremely rare. However, whether NSS is more beneficial than radical nephrectomy (RN) in such patients is controversial. Here, we present the case of a 71-year-old female patient with a 20 cm*16 cm RCC mass in the SFK, who initially presented with hematuria and acute urinary tract obstructive anuria caused by renal calculi. The patient underwent NSS treatment after our evaluation, and the 26-month follow-up revealed that her renal function recovered to the state before the tumor formation. In addition, no relapse or metastasis was detected.
A novel classification of subaxial cervical hemivertebrae and associated surgical management
Authors: Wu Jinhui , Hu Miao , Tao Zhengbo , Zhou Xin , Jiang Heng , Lin Tao , Ma Jun , Gao Rui , Wang Ce , Zhou Xuhui
Published: March 2023

Objective

To propose and validate a new classification of surgical methods for patients with subaxial cervical hemivertebrae.

Method

This article reviewed cases diagnosed with subaxial cervical hemivertebrae in our hospital from January 2008 to December 2019. The results of preoperative (initial visit), postoperative and/or final follow-up were assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, Neck Disability Index (NDI) score, spinal balance parameters, and Scoliosis Research Society-22 Questionnaire (SRS-22). We also performed a reliability study to assess this classification.

Result

The classification includes three types. Each type can be divided into two subtypes, and a preliminary algorithm is proposed. Type I: There is an obvious appearance deformity in the neck, there are hemivertebrae in the cervical spine, and only a single hemivertebra of the subaxial cervical hemivertebra needs to be resected. Type II: There is an obvious appearance deformity in the neck, there are hemivertebrae in the cervical spine, and multiple subaxial cervical hemivertebrae need to be removed. Type III: No apparent deformity in the neck, at least one subaxial cervical hemivertebra existed or Klipper-Feil syndrome. Each type is divided into two subtypes, A and B, according to whether the upper and lower adjacent vertebral bodies of the rescected hemivertebra(e) are fused. We propose corresponding treatment methods for different types. We included a total of 121 patients and reviewed the prognosis for each type of patient. All patients achieved satisfactory results. The reliability study showed that the mean interobserver agreement was 91.8% (89.3%–93.4%), and the κ value was 0.845 (0.800–0.875). The intraobserver agreement ranged from 93.4% to 97.5%, with a mean κ value of 0.929 (0.881 to 0.954).

Conclusion

In our study, we proposed and validated a new classification of subaxial cervical hemivertebrae and proposed corresponding treatment plans for different classifications.
Companion animal organoid technology to advance veterinary regenerative medicine
Authors: Penning Louis C. , van den Boom Robin
Published: March 2023

First year medical and veterinary students are made very aware that drugs can have very different effects in various species or even in breeds of one specific species. On the other hand, the “One Medicine” concept implies that therapeutic and technical approaches are exchangeable between man and animals. These opposing views on the (dis)similarities between human and veterinary medicine are magnified in regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine promises to stimulate the body's own regenerative capacity via activation of stem cells and/or the application of instructive biomaterials. Although the potential is enormous, so are the hurdles that need to be overcome before large scale clinical implementation is realistic. It is in the advancement of regenerative medicine that veterinary regenerative medicine can play an instrumental and crucial role. This review describes the discovery of (adult) stem cells in domesticated animals, mainly cats and dogs. The promise of cell-mediated regenerative veterinary medicine is compared to the actual achievements, and this will lead to a set of unanswered questions (controversies, research gaps, potential developments in relation to fundamental, pre-clinical, and clinical research). For veterinary regenerative medicine to have impact, either for human medicine and/or for domesticated animals, answering these questions is pivotal.