bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic Impairment of Blood Pressure and Stroke Mechanisms in Symptomatic Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis
Authors: Chen Zimo , Liu Jia , Wang Anqi , Wu Bokai , Cheng Zaiheng , Jiang Yingyu , Gu Hongqiu , Ding Lingling , Mo Jinglin , Jiang Yong , Liu Liping , Jing Lina , Jing Jing , Wang Yilong , Zhao Xingquan , Wang Yongjun , Qin Haiqiang , Li Zixiao
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hemodynamic impairment of blood pressure may play a crucial role in determining the mechanisms of stroke in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis). We aimed to elucidate this issue and assess the impacts of modifications to blood pressure on hemodynamic impairment.

METHODS:

From the Third China National Stroke Registry III, computed fluid dynamics modeling was performed using the Newton-Krylov-Schwarz method in 339 patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis during 2015 to 2018. The major exposures were translesional systolic blood pressure (SBP) drop and poststenotic mean arterial pressure (MAP), and the major study outcomes were cortex-involved infarcts and borderzone-involved infarcts, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression models and the bootstrap resampling method were utilized, adjusting for demographics and medical histories.

RESULTS:

In all, 184 (54.3%) cortex-involved infarcts and 70 (20.6%) borderzone-involved infarcts were identified. In multivariate logistic model, the upper quartile of SBP drop correlated with increased cortex-involved infarcts (odds ratio, 1.92 [95% CI, 1.03–3.57]; bootstrap analysis odds ratio, 2.07 [95% CI, 1.09–3.93]), and the lower quartile of poststenotic MAP may correlate with increased borderzone-involved infarcts (odds ratio, 2.07 [95% CI, 0.95–4.51]; bootstrap analysis odds ratio, 2.38 [95% CI, 1.04–5.45]). Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a consistent upward trajectory of the relationship between translesional SBP drop and cortex-involved infarcts, while a downward trajectory between poststenotic MAP and borderzone-involved infarcts. SBP drop correlated with poststenotic MAP negatively (r
s
=−0.765;
P
<0.001). In generating hemodynamic impairment, simulating blood pressure modifications suggested that ensuring adequate blood pressure to maintain sufficient poststenotic MAP appears preferable to the reverse approach, due to the prolonged plateau period in the association between the translesional SBP drop and cortex-involved infarcts and the relatively short plateau period characterizing the correlation between poststenotic MAP and borderzone-involved infarcts.

CONCLUSIONS:

This research elucidates the role of hemodynamic impairment of blood pressure in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis-related stroke mechanisms, underscoring the necessity to conduct hemodynamic assessments when managing blood pressure in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis.
Extracting reproducible subject-specific MEG evoked responses with independent component analysis
Authors: Cotroneo Silvia Federica , Ala-Salomäki Heidi , Parkkonen Lauri , Liljeström Mia , Salmelin Riitta
Published: June 2024

Reliable individual-level measures of neural activity are essential for capturing interindividual variability in brain activity recorded by magnetoencephalography (MEG). While conventional group-level analyses highlight shared features in the data, individual-level specificity is often lost. Current methods for assessing reproducibility of brain responses focus on group-level statistics and neglect subject-specific temporal and spatial characteristics. This study proposes a combined ICA algorithm (comICA), aimed at extracting within-individual consistent MEG evoked responses. The proposed hypotheses behind comICA are based on the temporal profiles of the evoked responses, the corresponding spatial information, as well as independence and linearity. ComICA is presented and tested against simulated data and test–retest recordings of a high-level cognitive task (picture naming). The results show high reliability in extracting the shared activations in the simulations (success rate >93%) and the ability to successfully reproduce group-level results on reproducibility for the test–retest MEG recordings. Our model offers means for noise reduction, targeted extraction of specific activation components in experimental designs, and potential integration across different recordings.
Time-varying functional connectivity as Wishart processes
Authors: Kampman Onno P. , Ziminski Joe , Afyouni Soroosh , van der Wilk Mark , Kourtzi Zoe
Published: June 2024

We investigate the utility of Wishart processes (WPs) for estimating time-varying functional connectivity (TVFC), which is a measure of changes in functional coupling as the correlation between brain region activity in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The WP is a stochastic process on covariance matrices that can model dynamic covariances between time series, which makes it a natural fit to this task. Recent advances in scalable approximate inference techniques and the availability of robust open-source libraries have rendered the WP practically viable for fMRI applications. We introduce a comprehensive benchmarking framework to assess WP performance compared with a selection of established TVFC estimation methods. The framework comprises simulations with specified ground-truth covariance structures, a subject phenotype prediction task, a test-retest study, a brain state analysis, an external stimulus prediction task, and a novel data-driven imputation benchmark. The WP performed competitively across all the benchmarks. It outperformed a sliding window (SW) approach with adaptive cross-validated window lengths and a dynamic conditional correlation (DCC)-multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (MGARCH) baseline on the external stimulus prediction task, while being less prone to false positives in the TVFC null models.
Technology as Resistance: Pioneers of Korean Media Art from the 1960s to the 1990s
Authors: Shin Gyung Jin
Published: June 2024

This paper calls for a reassessment of early-stage Korean avant-garde and experimental art as the cornerstone of Korean media art. The aim is to discern a new genealogy of media art in Korea by tracing and linking the activities of early avant-garde artists and media art pioneers who have been neglected in the dominant art historiography, which has shown a preference for painting and video art. My detailed analysis of the experimental artists of the 1960s and 1970s, small groups in the mid-1980s, and the Art Tech Group in the early 1990s demonstrates how they revealed and articulated their spirit of resistance against academism and the mainstream using technology, thus following a different trajectory from that of the avant-garde and media art in Europe and North America.
Description of Longidorus sanlitanensis n. sp. (Dorylaimida: Longidoridae) from the rhizosphere of Melilotoides ruthenica and Chamaerhodos erecta in China
Authors: Cai Ruihang , Gu Jianfeng , Ye Weimin , Ma Xinxin , Liu Yinzhan
Published: June 2024

Longidorus sanlitanensis n. sp. was recovered from the rhizosphere of Melilotoides ruthenica and Chamaerhodos erecta in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, P.R. China, and was described and illustrated using morphological and molecular data. The new species is characterised by medium body length of females (4.0-4.8 mm), lip region anteriorly rounded and separated from the rest of the body by a depression, pocket-shaped amphidial pouches, the guiding ring located at 58.4-66.0 μm from the anterior end, odontostyle and odontophore 107.2-114.6 and 71.6-77.8 μm long, respectively, the pharyngeal bulb 68.7-79.7 μm long, a short conical tail with a broadly rounded terminus, four juvenile developmental stages (J1 was not detected) and males absent. By similarities in the distance of the guiding ring from the anterior body end, body and odontostyle length and lip region shape, the new species was compared with nine similar species, namely: L. litchi, L. diadecturus, L. fursti, L. himalayensis, L. jonesi, L. wiesae, L. macromucronatus, L. fangi and L. zhengi. The matrix code of the new species is: A4-B2-C5-D4-E1-F2-G2-H12-I2-J1-K?. The phylogenetic relationships of the new species with other relevant species were reconstructed using near-full-length 18S, ITS1 and 28S D2-D3 regions of rRNA gene and the resulted topologies were discussed. In 18S phylogeny, L. sanlitanensis n. sp. formed a clade with L. litchi inside a major clade, including species with a posteriorly located guiding ring, and in 28S phylogeny it showed close relationships with species having a posteriorly located guiding ring. This is the 22nd Longidorus species recorded from China.
Using closed-circuit infrared camera to assess biparental provisioning behaviour and foraging pattern of house-farmed swiftlets (Aerodramus sp.)
Authors: Daud Ummi Nur Syafiqah , Ismail Nor Adibah , Ramasamy Kosila , Arazmi Noor Fatihah Najihah , Md. Nor Shukor , Mansor Mohammad Saiful
Published: June 2024

The house-farmed edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus sp.) is monogamous, produces nests from hardened saliva, and uses echolocation to navigate in the darkness. Most previous studies have focused on swiftlet nest building and incubation behaviour, but nestling provisioning behaviour, crucial for the survival of offspring during the breeding season, remains unclear. This study examined the nestling provisioning behaviour of house-farmed swiftlets at a swiftlet house farm in central Peninsular Malaysia. Complete focal video footage of the provisioning phase of swiftlets was analysed in detail. The overall feeding period decreased as the chick grew older. The parents alternately visited their nest 6-14 times a day from dawn to dusk to feed the nestling. The peak of this activity was from 07:00 to 08:00 and between 19:00 and 20:00. Nestling provisioning behaviour differed between pairs. The egg-laying interval of parents with two chicks was longer and affected the development of the second chick since the first chick more successfully competed for food and grew larger in size. Most second chicks with a smaller body size did not survive, because of being either purposely or unintentionally eliminated by the parents or sibling. The smaller-sized second chicks that survived took a longer time to fledge than the first chick; therefore, parents had to increase their foraging effort to ensure the survival of their chick until fledging. These behaviours may be influenced by physiological factors, such as age, experience, individual fitness, and abiotic factors, such as weather and food resources; therefore, different parental strategies may be established during the nestling provisioning phase.
Judo 9+ injury prevention protocol (J9+IPP) on balance, strength, and anaerobic fitness in elite judokas: a one-group pretest-post-test, quasi-experimental trial
Authors: Rawat N. , Agarwal S. , Anwar U.
Published: June 2024

Judoka, the judo athlete, is involved in, high-intensity intermittent combat sport, to defeat the opponent by reversing body momentum with speed and skill. Hence the judokas are susceptible to injuries. Specific training and physical conditioning help the judoka perform efficiently with minimal risk of injuries. The judo9+ injury prevention protocol consisting of sport-specific exercises focuses on minimising lower limb risk factors. The objective of the study was to investigate the effects of judo 9+ injury prevention protocol on strength, balance, and anaerobic fitness in elite judokas. A sample of 20 (male and female elite judokas) aged between 20-40 years, were recruited in the study based on selection criteria. After demographic and baseline evaluation, the judo9+ injury prevention protocol was administered to each participant for four weeks (2 sessions/week). Balance (SEBT), lower limb strength (VJHT), and anaerobic fitness (SJFT) scores were administered before the training began and after the completion of the training. Pre-post-training changes were compared using, using the paired t-test. All the outcome measures, SEBT, VJHT and SJFT demonstrated statistical significant changes () following four weeks of judo9+ injury prevention training. Larger effect sizes of 0.94 and 1.42 with >90% power were reported in VJHT and SJFT, respectively. There is sufficient evidence from this study to confirm that judo9+ injury prevention training significantly improves lower limb strength and anaerobic fitness among elite judokas following four weeks of judo9+ injury prevention training. However, balance improvement might require longer duration.
A Comprehensive Review of Cogenerative Dialogue in Science Education
Authors: Baek Seongheui , Ha Yoon-Hee , Martin Sonya N.
Published: June 2024

This study comprehensively explores cogenerative dialogue in science education from a sociocultural perspective. Analyzing 120 papers and theses from January 2001 to December 2022 in Korean and English journals, we examine their objectives, themes, methods, learners, educational levels, participants, researcher roles, coteaching connections, and program durations. Our data analysis reveals growing diversity in cogenerative dialogue research objectives and subjects across countries. Consistent patterns emerge regarding researcher roles, participant groups, and program durations. This research offers insights into the evolving cogenerative dialogue landscape in science education, informing future investigations and highlighting trends in this field. The findings presented not only shed light on the current state of research but also provide direction for future investigations, highlighting trends and distinctive features in various facets of cogenerative dialogue-related studies. Specifically, we offer suggestions for the need for research in Korean science education contexts and more broadly in the Asia-Pacific region.
Exploring Children’s Reasoning about Continuous Causal Processes through Visual Cues and Non-Verbal Assessment in Science Education
Authors: Duan Jinruo , Yan Rong , Zare Samad , Qin Jike
Published: June 2024

Causal reasoning is important to children’s cognition and academic development. However, there have been few empirical studies on the impact of visual cues and non-verbal scaffolding on children’s reasoning in continuous causal processes. Hence, the present study aims to explore how causal reasoning in continuous processes is facilitated by visual mind maps and multiple-choice questions through science experiments. By randomly selecting 136 children aged 9–13, the following results were obtained: Children provided with a mind map containing visual causal cues performed significantly better than the non-cue group on explanation tasks regardless of age differences, and children assessed using non-verbal multiple-choice questions scored significantly higher in explaining causal relationships than those using only verbal reports. This suggests that identification and explanation need to be differentiated for a more accurate evaluation of causal reasoning ability. These results have valuable implications for science curriculum and pedagogy at primary schools.
New urban spaces under Modi’s digital India – digitization of urban governance and state-citizen relationship
Authors: Mukherjee Falguni
Published: June 2024

Few studies have examined how Indian urban local bodies (ULBs) have responded to the government’s informationization agenda, particularly the use of geospatial technologies for urban governance. Drawing upon insights from Critical GIS, neoliberalization and governmentality studies, this article addresses this gap by examining the case of Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) and the evolution of their modernization efforts that have progressed from office automation practices to active use of GIS technology for urban governance. SMC’s regional and political environment have favored their modernization efforts. However, as ULBs are expected to manage a diverse urban population and shoulder responsibilities with fewer resources they must adapt. Surat Municipal Corporation has adapted by aligning local political agenda with national agenda and adopting a strategy that echoes the dominant political discourse of utilizing technology to govern from a distance and as a modality of biopolitics. Use of geospatial technologies serves as an important tool for the ULB to introduce new modes of bureaucratic governmentality.
Advanced glycation end product-modified low-density lipoprotein promotes pro-osteogenic reprogramming via RAGE/NF-κB pathway and exaggerates aortic valve calcification in hamsters
Authors: Yang Xi , Zeng Jingxin , Xie Kaiji , Su Shuwen , Guo Yuyang , Zhang Hao , Chen Jun , Ma Zhuang , Xiao Zezhou , Zhu Peng , Zheng Shaoyi , Xu Dingli , Zeng Qingchun
Published: June 2024

Background

Advanced glycation end product-modified low-density lipoprotein (AGE-LDL) is related to inflammation and the development of atherosclerosis. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) has a role in the condition known as calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). Here, we hypothesized that the AGE-LDL/RAGE axis could also be involved in the pathophysiological mechanism of CAVD.

Methods

Human aortic valve interstitial cells (HAVICs) were stimulated with AGE-LDL following pre-treatment with or without interleukin 37 (IL-37). Low-density lipoprotein receptor deletion (Ldlr−/−) hamsters were randomly allocated to chow diet (CD) group and high carbohydrate and high fat diet (HCHFD) group.

Results

AGE-LDL levels were significantly elevated in patients with CAVD and in a hamster model of aortic valve calcification. Our in vitro data further demonstrated that AGE-LDL augmented the expression of intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in a dose-dependent manner through NF-κB activation, which was attenuated by nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) inhibitor Bay11-7082. The expression of RAGE was augmented in calcified aortic valves, and knockdown of RAGE in HAVICs attenuated the AGE-LDL-induced inflammatory and osteogenic responses as well as NF-κB activation. IL-37 suppressed inflammatory and osteogenic responses and NF-κB activation in HAVICs. The vivo experiment also demonstrate that supplementation with IL-37 inhibited valvular inflammatory response and thereby suppressed valvular osteogenic activities.

Conclusions

AGE-LDL promoted inflammatory responses and osteogenic differentiation through RAGE/NF-κB pathway in vitro and aortic valve lesions in vivo. IL-37 suppressed the AGE-LDL-induced inflammatory and osteogenic responses in vitro and attenuated aortic valve lesions in a hamster model of CAVD.

Graphic Abstract
Targeted insertion of conditional expression cassettes into the mouse genome using the modified i-PITT
Authors: Miura Hiromi , Nakamura Ayaka , Kurosaki Aki , Kotani Ai , Motojima Masaru , Tanaka Keiko , Kakuta Shigeru , Ogiwara Sanae , Ohmi Yuhsuke , Komaba Hirotaka , Schilit Samantha L.P. , Morton Cynthia C. , Gurumurthy Channabasavaiah B. , Ohtsuka Masato
Published: June 2024

Background

Transgenic (Tg) mice are widely used in biomedical research, and they are typically generated by injecting transgenic DNA cassettes into pronuclei of one-cell stage zygotes. Such animals often show unreliable expression of the transgenic DNA, one of the major reasons for which is random insertion of the transgenes. We previously developed a method called “pronuclear injection-based targeted transgenesis” (PITT), in which DNA constructs are directed to insert at pre-designated genomic loci. PITT was achieved by pre-installing so called landing pad sequences (such as heterotypic LoxP sites or attP sites) to create seed mice and then injecting Cre recombinase or PhiC31 integrase mRNAs along with a compatible donor plasmid into zygotes derived from the seed mice. PITT and its subsequent version, improved PITT (i-PITT), overcome disadvantages of conventional Tg mice such as lack of consistent and reliable expression of the cassettes among different Tg mouse lines, and the PITT approach is superior in terms of cost and labor. One of the limitations of PITT, particularly using Cre-mRNA, is that the approach cannot be used for insertion of conditional expression cassettes using Cre-LoxP site-specific recombination. This is because the LoxP sites in the donor plasmids intended for achieving conditional expression of the transgene will interfere with the PITT recombination reaction with LoxP sites in the landing pad.

Results

To enable the i-PITT method to insert a conditional expression cassette, we modified the approach by simultaneously using PhiC31o and FLPo mRNAs. We demonstrate the strategy by creating a model containing a conditional expression cassette at the Rosa26 locus with an efficiency of 13.7%. We also demonstrate that inclusion of FLPo mRNA excludes the insertion of vector backbones in the founder mice.

Conclusions

Simultaneous use of PhiC31 and FLP in i-PITT approach allows insertion of donor plasmids containing Cre-loxP-based conditional expression cassettes.
Characterization of metallothionein genes from Broussonetia papyrifera: metal binding and heavy metal tolerance mechanisms
Authors: Xu Zhenggang , Yang Shen , Li Chenhao , Xie Muhong , He Yi , Chen Sisi , Tang Yan , Li Dapei , Wang Tianyu , Yang Guiyan
Published: June 2024

Background

Broussonetia papyrifera is an economically significant tree with high utilization value, yet its cultivation is often constrained by soil contamination with heavy metals (HMs). Effective scientific cultivation management, which enhances the yield and quality of B. papyrifera, necessitates an understanding of its regulatory mechanisms in response to HM stress.

Results

Twelve Metallothionein (MT) genes were identified in B. papyrifera. Their open reading frames ranged from 186 to 372 bp, encoding proteins of 61 to 123 amino acids with molecular weights between 15,473.77 and 29,546.96 Da, and theoretical isoelectric points from 5.24 to 5.32. Phylogenetic analysis classified these BpMTs into three subclasses: MT1, MT2, and MT3, with MT2 containing seven members and MT3 only one. The expression of most BpMT genes was inducible by Cd, Mn, Cu, Zn, and abscisic acid (ABA) treatments, particularly BpMT2e, BpMT2d, BpMT2c, and BpMT1c, which showed significant responses and warrant further study. Yeast cells expressing these BpMT genes exhibited enhanced tolerance to Cd, Mn, Cu, and Zn stresses compared to control cells. Yeasts harboring BpMT1c, BpMT2e, and BpMT2d demonstrated higher accumulation of Cd, Cu, Mn, and Zn, suggesting a chelation and binding capacity of BpMTs towards HMs. Site-directed mutagenesis of cysteine (Cys) residues indicated that mutations in the C domain of type 1 BpMT led to increased sensitivity to HMs and reduced HM accumulation in yeast cells; While in type 2 BpMTs, the contribution of N and C domain to HMs’ chelation possibly corelated to the quantity of Cys residues.

Conclusion

The BpMT genes are crucial in responding to diverse HM stresses and are involved in ABA signaling. The Cys-rich domains of BpMTs are pivotal for HM tolerance and chelation. This study offers new insights into the structure-function relationships and metal-binding capabilities of type-1 and − 2 plant MTs, enhancing our understanding of their roles in plant adaptation to HM stresses.
Genome-wide analysis reveals genomic diversity and signatures of selection in Qinchuan beef cattle
Authors: Yu Hengwei , Zhang Ke , Cheng Gong , Mei Chugang , Wang Hongbao , Zan Linsen
Published: June 2024

Background

Indigenous Chinese cattle have abundant genetic diversity and a long history of artificial selection, giving local breeds advantages in adaptability, forage tolerance and resistance. The detection of selective sweeps and comparative genome analysis of selected breeds and ancestral populations provide a basis for understanding differences among breeds and for the identification and utilization of candidate genes. We investigated genetic diversity, population structure, and signatures of selection using genome-wide sequencing data for a new breed of Qinchuan cattle (QNC, n = 21), ancestral Qinchuan cattle (QCC, n = 20), and Zaosheng cattle (ZSC, n = 19).

Results

A population structure analysis showed that the ancestry components of QNC and ZSC were similar. In addition, the QNC and ZSC groups showed higher proportions of European taurine ancestry than that of QCC, and this may explain the larger body size of QNC, approaching that of European cattle under long-term domestication and selection. A neighbor-joining tree revealed that QCC individuals were closely related, whereas QNC formed a distinct group. To search for signatures of selection in the QNC genome, we evaluated nucleotide diversity (θπ), the fixation index (FST) and Tajima’s D. Overlapping selective sweeps were enriched for one KEGG pathway, the apelin signaling pathway, and included five candidate genes (MEF2A, SMAD2, CAMK4, RPS6, and PIK3CG). We performed a comprehensive review of genomic variants in QNC, QCC, and ZSC using whole-genome sequencing data. QCC was rich in novel genetic diversity, while diversity in QNC and ZSC cattle was reduced due to strong artificial selection, with divergence from the original cattle.

Conclusions

We identified candidate genes associated with production traits. These results support the success of selective breeding and can guide further breeding and resource conservation of Qinchuan cattle.
The association between smoking exposure and endothelial function evaluated using flow-mediated dilation values: a meta-analysis
Authors: Jia Xiaoxiao , Zhang Peng , Meng Liping , Tang Weiliang , Peng Fang
Published: June 2024

Background

Tobacco use is recognized as a major cause of cardiovascular disease, which is associated with endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial function is evaluated using flow-mediated dilation (FMD), which is a noninvasive method. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between smoking exposure and endothelial function evaluated using FMD values.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases for cohort studies of smokers or passive smokers that used FMD to assess endothelial function. The primary outcome of the study was the change in the rate of FMD. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool and Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Further, the weighted mean difference was used to analyze the continuous data.

Results

Overall, 14 of 1426 articles were included in this study. The results of these articles indicated that smoking is a major cause of endothelial dysfunction and altered FMD; a pooled effect size of − 3.15 was obtained with a 95% confidence interval of (− 3.84, − 2.46). Notably, pregnancy status, Asian ethnicity, or health status did not affect heterogeneity.

Conclusions

We found that smoking has a significant negative impact on FMD, and measures such as medication or education for smoking cessation may improve endothelial function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Trial Registration

The meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO on April 5th, 2023 (CRD42023414654).
Role identities of emergency medical services personnel and their associations with intention to leave the profession
Authors: Suokonautio Beeda , Kouvonen Anne , Nordquist Hilla
Published: June 2024

Background

The scope of emergency medical services (EMS) has expanded from the urgent care of emergency patients to on-call healthcare services provided in the field with a holistic view of the patient’s wellbeing. This challenges EMS to find solutions to cover all demands, while simultaneously setting high skill requirements for EMS personnel. Understanding personnel is a critical element in developing functional and resistant EMS. The aim of this study was to investigate how Finnish EMS personnel emphasize the Emergency Medical Services Role Identity Scale aspects of caregiving, thrill-seeking, duty, and capacity; and if these role identities are associated with intention to leave the profession.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey (N = 616, 52% women, mean age 32.9 years). Data were collected through social media platforms and analyzed with means, standard deviations, Mann-Whitney U-tests, Kruskal-Wallis H-tests, and binary logistic regression analyses.

Results

Our results indicate that capacity is the most emphasized aspect among EMS personnel, and at the same time, it increases intention to leave EMS. Capacity was followed by caregiving, with no association with intention to leave. Duty and thrill-seeking were the least emphasized and were negatively associated with intention to leave. Additionally, there were also other factors that were associated with emphasizing EMS-RIS aspect and intention to leave.

Conclusion

Capacity stands out most strongly in analysis being at the core of the role identity of EMS personnel and was associated with a higher likelihood of leaving intentions. Several other factors were also associated with the intention to leave. Future studies should examine the exact dimensions of capacity that are considered important among EMS personnel and why factors such as work experience are associated with intentions to leave.
Acceptability of virtual reality to screen for dementia in older adults
Authors: Siette Joyce , Adam Patrick J. , Harris Celia B.
Published: June 2024

Background

Early detection of dementia and cognitive decline is crucial for effective interventions and overall wellbeing. Although virtual reality (VR) tools offer potential advantages to traditional dementia screening tools, there is a lack of knowledge regarding older adults’ acceptance of VR tools, as well as the predictors and features influencing their adoption. This study aims to (i) explore older adults’ perceptions of the acceptability and usefulness of VR diagnostic tools for dementia, and (ii) identify demographic predictors of adoption and features of VR applications that contribute to future adoption among older adults.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving community-dwelling older adults who completed online questionnaires covering demographics, medical history, technology acceptance, previous usage, and perceived usefulness and barriers to VR adoption. Multiple linear regression was employed to assess relationships between sociodemographic factors, prior technology use, perceived ease, usefulness, and intention to adopt VR-based diagnostic tools.

Results

Older adults (N = 77, Mage = 73.74, SD = 6.4) were predominantly female and born in English-speaking countries. Perceived usefulness of VR applications and educational attainment emerged as significant predictors of the likelihood to use VR applications for dementia screening. Generally, older adults showed acceptance of VR applications for healthcare and dementia screening. Fully immersive applications were preferred, and older adults were mostly willing to share electronic information from screening with their healthcare providers.

Conclusions

The field of research on VR applications in healthcare is expanding. Understanding the demographic characteristics of populations that stand to benefit from healthcare innovations is critical for promoting adoption of digital health technologies and mitigating its barriers to access.
Molecular detection and genetic characterization of Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in selected chicken breeds in South Africa
Authors: Idowu Peter Ayodeji , Mpofu Takalani J. , Zishiri Oliver T. , Adelabu Olusesan A. , Nephawe Khathutshelo A. , Mtileni Bohani
Published: June 2024

Background

The impact of chickens on maintaining the economy and livelihood of rural communities cannot be overemphasized. In recent years, mycoplasmosis has become one of the diseases that affect the success of South African chicken production. Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) are the most prevalent strains of Mycoplasma in South Africa. MG and MS are significant respiratory pathogens affecting the productivity of chickens. The present study aimed to molecularly detect using qPCR and characterize the presence of MG and MS using phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic analysis was utilized to clarify general evolutionary relationships between related taxa of different MG and MS observed in tracheal swabs from South African chicken breeds.

Methods

Forty-five tracheal swabs of the Lohmann Brown (n = 9), Rhode Island Red (n = 9), Ovambo (n = 9), Venda (n = 9), and Potchefstroom Koekoek (n = 9) breeds were collected from symptomatic chickens present in the commercial farm. To detect MG and MS, DNA was extracted from tracheal swabs and faecal samples, and qPCR was performed with a 16 s rRNA (310 bp) and vlhA (400 bp) gene fragment. Following the sequencing of all the amplicons, MG, and MS dendrograms showing the evolutionary relationships among the five South African chicken breeds and the GeneBank reference population were constructed.

Results

The qPCR revealed the presence of MG and MS in 22% (2/9) of the tracheal swab samples tested for MS only in Rhode Island Red breeds; 66.6% (6/9) and 33% (3/9) of the tested samples in Ovambo breeds; and 11.1% (1/9) and 44.4% (4/9) of the tested samples in Venda breeds. No MG or MS were detected in the Lohmann Brown or Potchefstroom Koekoek breed. Furthermore, qPCR revealed the presence of MG in pooled faecal samples from Lohmann Brown and Ovambo breeds. Eight different bacterial isolates were recognized from both samples. Four isolates were of the 16 s ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene (named PT/MG51/ck/00, PT/MG48/ck/00, PT/MG41/ck/00 and PT/MG71/ck/00) gene of Mycoplasma gallisepticum, and the other was Mycoplasma Synoviae variable lipoprotein hemagglutinin A (vlhA) gene (named PT/MSA22/ck/01, PT/MS41/ck/01, PT/MS74/ck/01 and PT/MS46/ck/01) which were available in GenBank. These isolates were successfully sequenced with 95–100% similarity to the isolates from the gene bank.

Conclusion

The study revealed the presence of both MG and MS in the chicken breeds sampled. Furthermore, the different breeds of chicken were found to be susceptible to infection under the intensive or commercial management system. Therefore, continuous surveillance is encouraged to prevent the spread and outbreak of MG and MS in the poultry industry in South Africa.
Integrated analysis of the role of PR/SET domain 14 in gastric cancer
Authors: Li Xiao , Wang Cong , Wang Youcai , Chen Xiaobing , Li Zhi , Wang Jianwei , Liu Yingjun
Published: June 2024

Background

Gastric cancer is one of the most common tumors worldwide, and most patients are deprived of treatment options when diagnosed at advanced stages. PRDM14 has carcinogenic potential in breast and non-small cell lung cancer. however, its role in gastric cancer has not been elucidated.

Methods

We aimed to elucidate the expression of PRDM14 using pan-cancer analysis. We monitored the expression of PRDM14 in cells and patients using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. We observed that cell phenotypes and regulatory genes were influenced by PRDM14 by silencing PRDM14. We evaluated and validated the value of the PRDM14-derived prognostic model. Finally, we predicted the relationship between PRDM14 and small-molecule drug responses using the Connectivity Map and The Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer databases.

Results

PRDM14 was significantly overexpressed in gastric cancer, which identified in cell lines and patients’ tissues. Silencing the expression of PRDM14 resulted in apoptosis promotion, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of the growth and migration of GC cells. Functional analysis revealed that PRDM14 acts in epigenetic regulation and modulates multiple DNA methyltransferases or transcription factors. The PRDM14-derived differentially expressed gene prognostic model was validated to reliably predict the patient prognosis. Nomograms (age, sex, and PRDM14-risk score) were used to quantify the probability of survival. PRDM14 was positively correlated with sensitivity to small-molecule drugs such as TPCA-1, PF-56,227, mirin, and linsitinib.

Conclusions

Collectively, our findings suggest that PRDM14 is a positive regulator of gastric cancer progression. Therefore, it may be a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer.
Adolescents’ perspectives on a novel digital treatment targeting eating disorders: a qualitative study
Authors: Holgersen Guri , Abdi-Dezfuli Sara Elisabeth , Friis Darrud Solveig , Stornes Espeset Ester Marie , Bircow Elgen Irene , Nordgreen Tine
Published: June 2024

Background

Eating disorders in adolescence are associated with high psychological distress, impaired function and high comorbidity. Despite the severity, eating disorders remain highly underdiagnosed and untreated. Digital technology provides promising opportunities for treatment, however studies focusing on digital treatments for adolescents with eating disorders are lacking. The main aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of adolescents with lived experience of eating disorders on factors they deemed to be relevant in the development of a novel digital treatment.

Methods

A qualitative intervention development study using semi-structured individual interviews. Data collection, coding and analysis were conducted using the principles of reflexive thematic analysis. Participants were adolescents aged 16–19 years, with a self-reported diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder, currently in the final phase or completed psychological treatment for an eating disorder within the last five years.

Results

A total of 16 adolescents participated in the study, all females. Mean age was 17 ½ years (SD = 1.01). An in-depth understanding of the adolescents’ perspectives was developed into three themes: Facilitating self-awareness and readiness to change; Strengthening interpersonal relationships and decreasing social isolation; Ensuring feeling seen and motivating regular use.

Conclusions

This study provides a unique insight into the perspectives of adolescents with lived experience of eating disorders. The uptake and engagement can be optimized in a novel digital treatment for eating disorders by taking the adolescents perspectives into consideration.
The impact of COVID-19 lockdown on physical activity and sedentary behaviour in secondary school teachers: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Verhavert Yanni , Deliens Tom , Stas Lara , Van Hoof Elke , Deforche Benedicte , Aerenhouts Dirk , Clarys Peter , Zinzen Evert , De Martelaer Kristine
Published: June 2024

Background

Mid-March 2020, Belgium went in lockdown to combat the COVID-19-pandemic. Having to provide school-based day care and adapt to online teaching, while all social, cultural and sports events and activities were cancelled, secondary school teachers’ physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) may have been affected considerably. This study investigates the impact of the first Belgian lockdown on PA and SB in Flemish secondary school teachers.

Methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted throughout the 2019–2020 school year. PA and SB measured in March/April 2020 were compared with a pre-lockdown measurement in January/February 2020. Other pre-lockdown measurements (September/October 2019 and November/December 2019) and one other during-lockdown measurement (May/June 2020) allowed us to control for confounding. Validated questionnaires were used to assess participants’ PA and SB. Generalized linear mixed models were applied in R.

Results

Among 624 participants (77·2% females, 43·3 ± 10·3 years), increases were observed for total PA (+ 108 min/week; p = 0·047), moderate PA (+ 217 min/week; p = 0·001), domestic and garden PA (+ 308 min/week; p < 0·0001) and leisure-time PA (+ 131 min/week; p < 0·0001), whereas work-related PA (-289 min/week; p < 0·0001) and active transportation (-38 min/week; p =0·005) decreased. No differences were observed for walking (p = 1·0) and vigorous PA (p = 0·570). Increases were found for total SB (+ 972 min/week; p < 0·0001), work-related SB (+ 662 min/week; p < 0·0001) and leisure-time SB (+ 592 min/week; p = 0·0004), whereas transport-related SB (-290 min/week; p < 0·0001) decreased.

Conclusion

During the lockdown, we found in our sample that Flemish secondary school teachers showed an increase in SB that was 9 times as high as their PA increase. As a government, education network or school, it is crucial to sensitize, promote, and facilitate sufficient MVPA and/or walking, but likewise to discourage SB during pandemic-induced lockdowns.
Prevalence of somatic symptoms among Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) survivors in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mandizadza Oscar Onayi , Phebeni Ropafadzo Tsepang , Ji Conghua
Published: June 2024

Background

Many Ebola virus disease (EVD) survivors have reported somatic and neuropsychological symptoms after discharge from the Ebola Treatment Unit (ETU). Since the 2014–2016 Ebola epidemic in West Africa, various studies have investigated and identified these symptoms. Evidence on somatic symptoms is widely available in the literature, however, there is no concise overview of the prevalence across different time intervals.

Methods

This meta-analysis was conducted following the (PRISMA) guidelines. A database search was conducted to identify original studies that reported the prevalence of symptoms. The primary outcome measure was the prevalence rate of several somatic symptoms. Results were pooled, and prevalence rates were assessed over time, to elucidate any particular trends.

Results

We included 23 studies (5,714 participants). The pooled prevalence was: arthralgia 50% (95% CI: 41%-59%); headache 44% (95% CI: 36%-52%); myalgia 32% (95% CI: 26%-38%); abdominal pain 27% (95% CI: 15%-39%); fatigue 25% (95% CI: 19%-31%); numbness of feet 16% (95% CI: 14%-18%); numbness of hands 12% (95% CI: 10%-14%) and hearing loss 9% (95% CI: 5%-12%). Prevalence across different time intervals revealed significant patterns. All the symptoms persisted for more than 2 years after discharge except for abdominal pain.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence rates of somatic symptoms are notably high. Arthralgia and headache are the most prevalent of the symptoms, with hearing loss and numbness in hands and feet being the least. We found that arthralgia, myalgia, and abdominal pain decreased over time. However, headache, fatigue, numbness of hands and feet, and hearing loss increased over time.
“I’m not sure whether I will implement it”: exploring barriers and facilitators to implementing a digital “healthy eating” resource in early education and care settings - teachers’ perspectives
Authors: Helland Sissel H. , Vejrup Kristine , Overby Nina C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Scaling up effective interventions to promote healthy eating habits in children in real-world settings is a pressing need. The success of implementation hinges crucially on engaging end-users and tailoring interventions to meet their specific needs. Building on our prior evaluation of a digital “healthy eating” resource for early childhood education and care (ECEC) staff; this qualitative study aims to pinpoint the barriers and facilitators that influence the successful implementation of such interventions.

Methods

We conducted twelve semi-structured interviews with ECEC teachers in a Norwegian municipality. Interview participants were later invited to participate in focus groups where two discussions were conducted with five of the participants to reflect on the initial interview findings. Thematic analysis, facilitated by NVivo software, was employed to analyse the data, aiming to identify and summarize teachers’ subjective experiences and perspectives.

Results

Teachers’ perceptions of barriers to the implementation of an upcoming digital “healthy eating” resource included: (1) No established tradition of using digital resources at work; (2) Uncertainty regarding the achievable outcomes of implementation; (3) Perception of the new “healthy eating” resource as cooking-focused and unnecessary; and (4) Hectic everyday life serving as a barrier to the long-term use of a digital resource. Facilitators for implementation included: (1) A user-friendly format; (2) Newsletters featuring seasonal tips inspire and serve as effective reminders; (3) Emphasis on research and legislation; and (4) Structuring the resource as a series and an idea bank.

Conclusions

The findings underscore the essential need for tailored strategies and comprehensive support structures to successfully implement a culturally appropriate digital “healthy eating” resource for ECEC staff, ensuring effectiveness and feasibility.

Trial registration

This study was not registered in a trial registry as it is not a clinical trial or intervention study but serves as a pilot for the Nutrition Now study, trial identifier ISRCTN10694967 (https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN10694967), registration date: 19/06/2022.
Sense of coherence, mental health, and hair cortisol concentrations among older people during the COVID -19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Koppner Jenny , Lindelöf Ann , Iredahl Fredrik , Nilsson Staffan , Thorsell Annika , Larsen Hanna Israelsson , Faresjö Åshild
Published: June 2024

Background

A person’s sense of coherence (SoC) is likely to affect coping when exposed to a life changing event like the COVID -19 pandemic, which impacted the older population especially hard, an age group that already suffers from a lot of mental illness. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the associations between SoC and mental health in older adults using both screening scales and hair cortisol concentrations (HCC).

Method

A cross-sectional design studying a cohort of 70–80 years old, N = 260, set in Swedish primary care during the pandemic years 2021–2022. Instruments used are sense of coherence 13 (SoC-13), EQ-5D-3L, Geriatric depression scale 20 (GDS-20), Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), and Perceived stress scale 10 (PSS-10). Sociodemography and factors concerning SoC, and mental health are explored. HCC are measured using radioimmunoassay. Outcome measures are factors independently associated with SoC. Linear regression models were performed with SoC as dependent variable, and priory path analyses explored whether associations with SoC were direct, or indirect via anxiety.

Results

SoC was significantly associated with anxiety (p < 0.001), perceived economic status (p = 0.003), belief in the future (p = 0.001), and perceived negative mental effect from the COVID -19 pandemic (p = 0.002). The latter was 96% indirectly associated with SoC (p < 0.001), whereas perceived economic status together with belief in the future was 82% directly associated with SoC (p = 0.17). HCC and sex were not significantly associated with SoC, but, noticeably, high HCC was equally distributed between women and men. Women reported significantly lower quality of life (p = 0.03), and more symptoms of anxiety (p = 0.001) and depression (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Anxiety, belief in the future, perceived negative effect on mental health due to the pandemic, and perceived economic status were significantly associated with SoC. Anxiety is suggested to be important in explaining the association between perceived negative mental effect from the COVID-19 pandemic and SoC. Women reported significantly poorer mental health and life quality than men.