bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impostor phenomenon is a common feature among individuals with primary hyperhidrosis
Authors: Shayesteh Alexander , Boman Jens , Nylander Elisabet
Published: January 2024

Primary hyperhidrosis consists of excessive focal sweating. Affected individuals camouflage the sweating on their body, avoiding stigmatisation. Hence, misrepresentation in social interactions is a common feature in patients with hyperhidrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate impostor phenomenon, perfectionism, self-compassion, stress and anxiety among individuals with primary hyperhidrosis.

A cross-sectional study was conducted at our clinic among 100 participants with axillary and palmar primary hyperhidrosis. The questionnaire contained a hyperhidrosis part and Perceived Stress Scale-4, Generalised Anxiety Disorder Scale-2, Clinical Perfectionism Questionnaire-6, Self-Compassion Scale Short form and Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale. Descriptive statistics was used for analyses of categorical variables. As data were normally distributed independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey test were used to compare the mean values for the questionnaires with other variables. Pearson’s correlation was used, and a forward multiple linear regression model was performed to predict presence of impostor phenomenon with gender, age and other scales in this study.

Impostor phenomenon occurred in almost half of our patients (48%) with hyperhidrosis. While feelings of impostor phenomenon were more common in women, there was no difference between gender regarding its intensity levels ( p = 0.07). In addition, we found a significant ( p < 0.001) negative correlation between impostor phenomenon and self-compassion, while feelings of impostoer phenomenon increased with stress, anxiety and perfectionism ( p < 0.001).

Feelings of impostor phenomenon was found in 48% of individuals with hyperhidrosis which indicates that it is a common feature in this patient group. Future research is warranted regarding the prevalence of impostor phenomenon in hyperhidrosis and other medical conditions, among men and women, seeking medical healthcare. Psychological interventions in hyperhidrosis may be beneficial both for the individual and in public health, by facilitating management of patients’ daily lives and saving considerable resources in healthcare regarding pharmacological interventions and medical consultations.
Validation of the Bengali version of the Caregiver Collusion Questionnaire: A tool for measuring collusion among caregivers of terminally ill patients
Authors: Biswas Jheelam , Afsar Nahid , Khanam Salma Ahsan , Sarker Shima Rani , Tauhid Shamsudduha , Islam Nashid
Published: January 2024

In palliative care settings, collusion or “conspiracy of silence” frequently interferes with communication and interpersonal relationships among patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The “Caregiver Collusion Questionnaire” is the only tool available for assessing caregiver collusion. The purpose of the study is to translate and adapt the English version of this instrument into Bengali, followed by standard validation.

The study was carried out in two stages. Four independent translators conducted forward and backward translations of the English version of the “Caregiver Collusion Questionnaire” into Bengali. The Bengali version of the instrument was finalized following expert committee reviews, pre-testing, and cognitive debriefing. The final validation was carried out among 71 caregivers of patients with advanced incurable illnesses admitted to the palliative medicine and internal medicine departments of two Bangladeshi hospitals. In the final phase, the validity (content, face, and construct validity) and reliability (interclass item-wise correlation coefficient) of the translated tool were assessed.

60% of the participants fully understood 19 items, whereas 40% struggled with one or more items. The expert committee expressed their satisfaction with the face and content validity of the translated version. The Bengali version also had quite good reliability (α = 0.62). Seven components were identified using principal component analysis with the distribution of Varimax Rotation distribution. Items under each factor had adequate factor loading, ranging from 0.4 to 0.8.

The Bengali version of the “Caregiver Collusion Questionnaire” was found valid reliable and culturally acceptable for measuring caregiver collusion among the Bengali-speaking people. Based on the scale, the reasons for collusion can be identified and measures can be taken for breaking the collusion.
Hybridization of human–nature relationships and shifts in consumption practices: An analysis through the lens of Descola’s ontologies
Authors: Marchais Dorian , Roux Dominique , Arnould Eric
Published: January 2024

This research investigates how individuals connect with nature and how different perceptions of continuity or discontinuity with nonhuman entities influence their consumption habits. Drawing on Descola’s critique of the traditional distinction between nature and culture, this study empirically examines the concept of “ontological hybridity” introduced by the authors. Through qualitative data collected from 25 consumers, the analysis reveals the process by which non-naturalist ontologies infiltrate the dominant ontology, which serves as a critical backdrop for them. Amplified by triggering events, these infiltrations give rise to hybrid ontologies that drive changes in consumption practices. We discuss the opportunities presented by these ontological infiltrations for both the marketing field and society at large.
Look up! Five research proposals for rethinking marketing in a post-growth society
Authors: Rémy Eric , Roux Dominique , Arnould Eric , Askegaard Søren , Beudaert Anthony , Galluzzo Anthony , Giannelloni Jean-Luc , Marion Gilles
Published: January 2024

By focusing on the capacity of marketing to contribute to climate change, biodiversity loss, and strains on natural resources, this article addresses a fundamental concern. Despite the urgency and significance of these issues, the discipline, indeed, lags in recognizing that human activities have geological-scale consequences, to the extent that a new era, the Anthropocene, is being evoked. This reluctance can be attributed, at least in part, to the implicit assumptions of sustainable marketing, which tend to downplay the extent of the crisis and the necessary paradigm shifts. Hence, dominant approaches in “sustainable marketing” struggle to challenge the fundamental principles and ideological foundations of the market system. That is why we are advocating for radical changes in marketing research to envision a truly sustainable future. We put forth five research proposals with the aim of instigating profound transformations in the field.
Identifying Dark Patterns in User Account Disabling Interfaces: Content Analysis Results
Authors: Kelly Dominique , Rubin Victoria L.
Published: January 2024

Dark patterns are user interface (UI) strategies deliberately designed to influence users to perform actions or make choices that benefit online service providers. This mixed methods study examines dark patterns employed by social networking sites (SNSs) with the intent to deter users from disabling accounts. We recorded our attempts to disable experimental accounts in 25 SNSs drawn from Alexa’s 2020 Top Sites list. As a result of our systematic content analysis of the recordings, we identified major types of dark patterns (Complete Obstruction, Temporary Obstruction, Obfuscation, Inducements to Reconsider, and Consequences) and unified them into a conceptual model, based on the differences and similarities within nuanced subtypes in the user account disabling context. The Dark Pattern Typology presented at the 12th International Conference on Social Media and Society is further illustrated in this work. We document the distribution of the subtypes in our sample SNSs, exemplifying dark UI design choices. All of the sites used at least one type of dark pattern. Our findings provide empirical evidence for these pervasive—yet rarely discussed—strategies in the social media industry. Users who wish to discontinue using SNSs—to protect their privacy, break an addiction, and/or improve their general well-being—may find it difficult or nearly impossible to do so. Dark patterns, as common UI design strategies, require further research to determine whether particularly manipulative and user-disempowering varieties may warrant more stringent social media industry regulation.
Representations of Palestinian Culture in the Digital Public Sphere: A Semiotic Analysis of the Thobe and the Keffiyeh
Authors: Abu-Ayyash Shadi
Published: January 2024

Palestinian cultural identity has always been the flip side of the Palestinian people’s political resistance. While many studies have examined Palestinian culture from political and historical perspectives, limited academic works have investigated how social media plays a role in providing opportunities for Palestinians to resist negative stereotypes and provide alternative representations of their cultural symbols, including traditional customs. In its attempt to fill a gap in the existing body of knowledge, this article examines the contemporary representation of Palestinian culture, in particular, national garments—the thobe and keffiyeh —in the digital public sphere. Through employing theories of representation, the digital public sphere and applying semiotic analysis, this article follows four main X (formerly known as Twitter) hashtag-based trends that highlight traditional Palestinian garments (thobe and keffiyeh): #MyHistoricalThobe, #TweetYourThobe, #WorldKeffiyehDay, and #KeffiyehDay. Forty tweets extracted from top 10 X accounts, which first appeared in a hashtag search and were tweeted using these hashtags, were selected and coded. Using a semiotic analysis, the article deconstructed the tweets into connotation and denotation elements to better understand what the thobe and the keffiyeh mean collectively in the context of Palestinian cultural narrative. This research contributes to the debate concerning the relationship between interactive digital platforms and contemporary cultural resistance. It pushes forth the argument that shared representations of national cultural symbols are noticed when examining, and collectively reading, particular social media-based campaigns.
Personal Versus Societal Risk: Examining Social Media Influence on Individual and Collective Behaviors for COVID-19 Containment
Authors: Tu Caixie , Li Xigen
Published: January 2024

The study proposed a theoretical framework to identify the underlying mechanisms by which social media use affected individual and collective behaviors (i.e., self-protective and collective engagement behavior) during a public health emergency. The framework first considered how people shaped personal-level and societal-level risk perceptions from social media use and then examined how risk perception, in turn, predicted perceived media influence on themselves and on others, and subsequently individual and collective behaviors. The framework was tested with the survey data of 976 social media users during the 2022 COVID-19 outbreaks in China. The results showed that the indirect association between social media use and self-protective behaviors was mediated by risk perception, at both the personal and societal levels. The indirect association between social media use and collective engagement behaviors was mediated by societal-level risk perception and perceived media influence on others in sequence. However, no direct effect of social media use on collective engagement behaviors was found.
Authenticity Governance and the Market for Social Media Engagements: The Shaping of Disinformation at the Peripheries of Platform Ecosystems
Authors: Lindquist Johan , Weltevrede Esther
Published: January 2024

Social media engagements, such as likes and follows, have become crucial for driving algorithmic recommendations and underpinning platform economies. This has given rise to disinformation industries that focus on the production and sale of engagements, including Instagram followers—a phenomenon we term the “engagement as a service” market. However, this market poses significant challenges for empirical research as its operations remain obscured from the scrutiny of platforms, their users, and researchers alike. In this article, we propose a mixed-methods approach to make visible the relationship between the engagement market and platform governance, the latter of which increasingly aims to moderate account behavior in terms of authenticity and inauthenticity—what we refer to as “authenticity governance.” By developing this approach, we explore the relationship between the engagement market and platform ecosystems through three case studies: (1) engagement market responses to platform governance; (2) the evolution of engagement as a service; and (3) testing the quality of engagement as a service on Instagram. These investigations allow us to comprehend disinformation as an ongoing negotiation between the engagement market and authenticity governance. Overall, our three integrated approaches can help researchers move forward with the empirical study of disinformation markets that operate at the periphery of platform ecosystems. In short, this article presents a methodological outlook for analyzing (in)authentic engagements as a form of disinformation.
Three Critiques of Disinformation (For-Hire) Scholarship: Definitional Vortexes, Disciplinary Unneighborliness, and Cryptonormativity
Authors: Harsin Jayson
Published: January 2024

This article presents three critiques of disinformation scholarship, with an emphasis on “for-hire.” The article argues that disinformation is defined in unpromising and contradictory ways. Concepts have ontological and epistemological repercussions, and thus far, disinformation scholarship has failed to engage them. Partly because scholars are studying disinformation even when they do not use that word to label their work, the article argues that explicit disinformation scholarship tends to neglect neighboring fields and scholars—the second critique. By most definitions of the term disinformation, neighbors are researching the same object domain, which could provide rich resources for scholars newly attracted to “disinformation”: propaganda, public relations, promotional culture, political consulting/marketing, and post-truth studies. It discusses the neighbors’ deep historical and contemporary research on for-hire deceptive communication, including that pertaining to social media. The third critique argues that disinformation scholarship has a cryptonormative tendency, evident in language of disorder, threats, dysfunctions, and pollution; it therefore needs more overt normative justification (or defense of anti-normativity). The cryptonormativity also entails a tendency toward ethnocentrism. The article ends by questioning whether disinformation is conceptually suitable for the theoretical work with which it tasks itself.
Risk Factors for Reoperation Following Single-Level Cervical Disc Arthroplasty as Utilized in a Representative Sample of United States Clinical Practice: A Retrospective PearlDiver Study
Authors: Nilssen Paal K. , Narendran Nakul , Chen Ida , Kanim Linda E. , Walker Corey T. , Bae Hyun W. , Skaggs David L. , Tuchman Alexander
Published: January 2024

Study Design

Retrospective Cohort.

Objectives

Most data regarding cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) outcomes are from highly controlled clinical trials with strict inclusion/exclusion criteria. This study aimed to identify risk factors for CDA reoperation, in “real world” clinical practice using a national insurance claims database.

Methods

The PearlDiver database was queried for patients (2010-2020) who underwent a subsequent cervical procedure following a single-level CDA. Patients with less than 2 years follow-up were excluded. Primary outcome was to evaluate risk factors for reoperation. Secondary outcome was to evaluate the types of reoperations. Risk factors were compared using descriptive statistics. Multivariate regression analyses were used to ascertain the association among risk factors and reoperation.

Results

Of 14,202 patients who met inclusion criteria, 916 (6.5%) underwent reoperation. Patients undergoing reoperation were slightly older with higher Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) scores, however both were not risk factors for reoperation. Patients with diagnoses such as smoking, myelopathy, inflammatory disorders, spinal deformity, trauma, or a history of prior cervical surgery were at greater risk for reoperation. No association was found between the year of index surgery and reoperation risk. The most common reoperation procedure was cervical fusion.

Conclusions

As billed for in the United States since 2010, CDA was associated with a 6.5% reoperation rate over a mean follow-up time of 5.3 years. Smoking, myelopathy, inflammatory disorders, spinal deformity, and a history of prior cervical surgery or trauma are risk factors for reoperation following CDA. Though patients who underwent a reoperation were older, age was not found to be an independent risk factor for a subsequent procedure.
Discordance between LDL-C and apolipoprotein B is associated with large-artery-atherosclerosis ischemic stroke in patients ⩽70 years of age
Authors: Kriemler Lilian , Rudin Salome , Gawinecka Joanna , Gross Felix , Arnold Markus , Schweizer Juliane , Westphal Laura , Inauen Corinne , Pokorny Thomas , Dittrich Tolga , Toebak Anna , Arnold Marcel , Christ-Crain Mirjam , von Eckardstein Arnold , Rentsch Katharina , Katan Mira , De Marchis Gian Marco
Published: January 2024

Background and aims:

Low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) and other atherogenic lipoproteins are coated by apolipoprotein B100 (apoB). The correlation between LDL-C and apoB is usually thight, but in some cases LDL-C underestimates apoB levels and residual cardiovascular risk. We aimed to assess if a discordance of LDL-C-levels with apoB levels is associated with LAA stroke.

Methods:

We included patients with an acute ischemic stroke from two prospective studies enrolled at the University Hospital Bern, Basel and Zurich, Switzerland. LDL-C and apoB were measured within 24 h of symptom onset. By linear regression, for each LDL-C, we computed the expected apoB level assuming a perfect correlation. Higher-than-expected apoB was defined as apoB level being in the upper residual tertile.

Results:

Overall, we included 1783 patients, of which 260 had a LAA stroke (15%). In the overall cohort, higher-than-expected apoB values were not associated with LAA. However, a significant interaction with age was present. Among the 738 patients ⩽70 years of age, a higher-than-expected apoB was more frequent in patients with LAA- versus non LAA-stroke (48% vs 36%, p = 0.02). In multivariate analysis, a higher-than-expected apoB was associated with LAA stroke (aOR = aOR 2.48, 95%CI 1.14–5.38). Among those aged ⩽70 years and with LAA, 11.7% had higher than guideline-recommended apoB despite LDL-C ⩽ 1.8 mmol/L (<70 mg/dl), compared to 5.9% among patients with other stroke etiologies ( p = 0.04). A triglyceride cut-off of ⩾0.95 mmol/L had, in external validation, a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 52% for apoB ⩾ 0.65 g/L among patients with LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L.

Conclusions:

Among patients aged ⩽70 years, a higher-than-expected apoB was independently associated with LAA stroke. Measuring apoB may help identify younger stroke patients potentially benefiting from intensified lipid-lowering therapy.
Progress in Stability Adjustment of Photonic Crystal Coatings on Fabrics or Fiber: A Review
Authors: Shi Qingwen , Wang Xuyi , Fu Yin , Sarazul Islam Md , Sun Jiuxiao , Li Xue , Hu Jingchuan , Tan Haiying
Published: January 2024

Photonic crystals with bright colors have shown great potential application in bio-sensing, anti-counterfeiting, and smart wear. Different methods are used to construct photonic crystals on fabrics using different raw materials. However, building photonic crystals on fibers or fabrics with vibrant colors and good stability is still challenging. Various strategies have been used to increase the stability (e.g. wash, bend, friction stability, and so on) of the photonic crystal coatings on the fabrics or fibers. Therefore, this paper reviews great efforts to construct photonic crystal-coated materials, the methods to increase the stability of photonic crystal coatings on the fabrics, and their possible applications. The summarization of this review may lay the foundation for the construction of photonic crystals on fabrics with high color fastness and application in fabric coloring.
Developing adaptive leadership in post-information societies: The possible role of creative orientation, identity and metacognition
Authors: Velcu-Laitinen Oana
Published: January 2024

This paper expands on creativity theories to enhance the understanding of leaders’ psychological resources in effectively adapting themselves and steering their employees to adapt to organisational change. Creativity is an essential skill for effective leadership. Creative leaders can motivate their teams more effectively and can handle novel challenges by being more flexible in going outside the typical routines. Yet, how do leaders understand and act on their creativity in dealing with change? How do leaders recognise their people’s creativity? This paper introduces three personal resources – creative orientation, identity and metacognition – as psychological mechanisms that reflect leaders’ abilities to notice, interpret and act on opportunities to respond to shifting workplaces. I hypothesise that leaders can develop two creative orientations while leading change – focus on strengthening their social network and focus on taking new action. Also, the paper argues for the importance of leaders’ creative identity and hypothesizes that leaders can deliberately enact their creative identities in their roles, based on two ways to understand their creativity: as a way of thinking or as a personality type. Lastly, leaders’ creative metacognition can empower followers’ creativity.
Cross-sectional survey of health literacy among health science students in Singapore
Authors: Cheong Kenrick Y , Syed Mahmud Syed Munauwwar B , Chng Nicole W , Kwek Geralyn J , Yan Clement C , Yeung Meredith T
Published: January 2024

Background:

Health literacy proficiency is essential for health care professionals to provide quality patient care. There is limited research exploring health literacy proficiency among undergraduate health science students.

Objectives:

To determine health literacy among health science students in Singapore using the electronic Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ).

Design:

A cross-sectional survey using purposive sampling was conducted among undergraduate health science students.

Methodology:

This study hypothesises that health literacy is influenced by gender, and it increases with the level of health science education, attributed to the increased exposure to the health care system and health care education as undergraduates progress through the years of study. Eligible students from the 4-year entry-level programmes of diagnostic radiography, dietetics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, radiation therapy and speech and language therapy, aged from 21 to 50, were invited. Exclusion criteria were students who were no longer studying due to dropping out or having immediately graduated from these programmes and students in the accelerated programmes whose studies would be completed in less than 4 years.

Results:

In total, 111 respondents (72 females and 37 males) completed surveys (response rate, 7.7%) returned from physiotherapy ( n = 69), occupational therapy ( n = 25), diagnostic radiography ( n = 12) and dietetics ( n = 5), with nil from radiation therapy and speech and language therapy. All participants were English literate. Female participants demonstrated higher HLQ with a mean total score of 30.67 (standard deviation ( SD) = 0.61) versus male participants 29.83 ( SD = 0.53). Year 2, 3 and 4 students generally scored higher than Year 1 across all nine HLQ scales. Overall, dietetics students had the highest total score on the HLQ, while the diagnostic radiography students had the lowest scores for all the nine HLQ scales.

Conclusion:

This study established the health literacy level of health science students in Singapore. Gender and years of study influenced health literacy levels, supporting the hypothesis.
Mapping phenotypic performance and novel SNPs for cold tolerance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) genotypes through GWAS and population genetics
Authors: Shah Labiba Riyaz , Ahmed Nazeer , Hussain Khursheed , Mansoor Sheikh , Khan Tamana , Khan Imran , Narayan Sumati , Afroza Baseerat , Murtaza Imtiyaz , Shikari Asif Bashir , Bhat Basharat , Masoodi Khalid Z.
Published: January 2024

The cold stress susceptibility of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) curtails its cultivation, with significant impact in temperate regions and on cropping seasons. To unravel genomic regions responsible for cold stress resilience, a diverse set of fifty genotypes encompassing cultivated, wild species, and landraces were genotyped using genotyping-by-sequencing. Over two years and six trials employing both early and late sowing, these lines were evaluated. Illumina-based next-generation sequencing produced up to 3 million reads per sample from individually sequenced library pools. The Tassel pipeline yielded 10,802 variants, subsequently filtered to 3,854 SNPs for genome-wide association analysis (GWAS). Employing clustering methods (population structure) via TASSEL, SNPhylo, and Kinship matrix, the fifty genotypes clustered into four distinct gene pools. The GWAS for cold tolerance in tomato integrated key traits including yield. Using six independent phenotypic datasets representing various environments, the study identified 4,517 significant marker-trait associations for cold tolerance traits. Notably, pivotal variations (> 10%) in cold stress tolerance, particularly proline content, were linked to marker-trait associations. Additionally, 5,727 significant marker-trait associations for yield and yield-related traits were unveiled, shedding light on fruit yield and directly associated attributes. The investigation pinpointed 685 candidate genes across all examined traits, including 60 genes associated with biological processes within these genomic regions. Remarkably, 7 out of the 60 genes were directly linked to abiotic stress tolerance, functioning as stress-responsive genes either directly or indirectly. The identified genes, particularly those associated with stress response, could hold the key to enhancing cold tolerance and overall crop productivity in tomato cultivation.
Long-insert sequence capture detects high copy numbers in a defence-related beta-glucosidase gene βglu-1 with large variations in white spruce but not Norway spruce
Authors: Hung Tin Hang , Wu Ernest T. Y. , Zeltiņš Pauls , Jansons Āris , Ullah Aziz , Erbilgin Nadir , Bohlmann Joerg , Bousquet Jean , Birol Inanc , Clegg Sonya M. , MacKay John J.
Published: January 2024

Conifers are long-lived and slow-evolving, thus requiring effective defences against their fast-evolving insect natural enemies. The copy number variation (CNV) of two key acetophenone biosynthesis genes Ugt5/Ugt5b and βglu-1 may provide a plausible mechanism underlying the constitutively variable defence in white spruce (Picea glauca) against its primary defoliator, spruce budworm. This study develops a long-insert sequence capture probe set (Picea_hung_p1.0) for quantifying copy number of βglu-1-like, Ugt5-like genes and single-copy genes on 38 Norway spruce (Picea abies) and 40 P. glauca individuals from eight and nine provenances across Europe and North America respectively. We developed local assemblies (Piabi_c1.0 and Pigla_c.1.0), full-length transcriptomes (PIAB_v1 and PIGL_v1), and gene models to characterise the diversity of βglu-1 and Ugt5 genes. We observed very large copy numbers of βglu-1, with up to 381 copies in a single P. glauca individual. We observed among-provenance CNV of βglu-1 in P. glauca but not P. abies. Ugt5b was predominantly single-copy in both species. This study generates critical hypotheses for testing the emergence and mechanism of extreme CNV, the dosage effect on phenotype, and the varying copy number of genes with the same pathway. We demonstrate new approaches to overcome experimental challenges in genomic research in conifer defences.
Genome-wide identification and expression characterization of the GH3 gene family of tea plant (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Wang Xinge , Jia Chunyu , An Lishuang , Zeng Jiangyan , Ren Aixia , Han Xin , Wang Yiqing , Wu Shuang
Published: January 2024

To comprehensively understand the characteristics of the GH3 gene family in tea plants (Camellia sinensis), we identified 17 CsGH3 genes and analyzed their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, promoters, and expression patterns in different tissues. The study showed that the 17 CsGH3 genes are distributed on 9 chromosomes, and based on evolutionary analysis, the CsGH3 members were divided into three subgroups. Gene duplication analysis revealed that segmental duplications have a significant impact on the amplification of CsGH3 genes. In addition, we identified and classified cis-elements in the CsGH3 gene promoters and detected elements related to plant hormone responses and non-biotic stress responses. Through expression pattern analysis, we observed tissue-specific expression of CsGH3.3 and CsGH3.10 in flower buds and roots. Moreover, based on predictive analysis of upstream regulatory transcription factors of CsGH3, we identified the potential transcriptional regulatory role of gibberellin response factor CsDELLA in CsGH3.14 and CsGH3.15. In this study, we found that CsGH3 genes are involved in a wide range of activities, such as growth and development, stress response, and transcription. This is the first report on CsGH3 genes and their potential roles in tea plants. In conclusion, these results provide a theoretical basis for elucidating the role of GH3 genes in the development of perennial woody plants and offer new insights into the synergistic effects of multiple hormones on plant growth and development in tea plants.
Enhancing nitrogen use efficiency and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) through Ammonia volatilization mitigation and nitrogen management approaches
Authors: Dawar Khadim , Dawar Atif , Tariq Muhammad , Mian Ishaq Ahmad , Muhammad Asim , Farid Laiba , Khan Shadman , Khan Kashif , Fahad Shah , Danish Subhan , Al-Ghamdi Abdullah Ahmed , Elshikh Mohamed S. , Tahzeeb-ul-Hassan Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Management of nitrogen (N) fertilizer is a critical factor that can improve maize (Zea mays L.) production. On the other hand, high volatilization losses of N also pollute the air. A field experiment was established using a silt clay soil to examine the effect of sulfur-coated urea and sulfur from gypsum on ammonia (NH3) emission, N use efficiency (NUE), and the productivity of maize crop under alkaline calcareous soil. The experimental design was a randomized complete block (RCBD) with seven treatments in three replicates: control with no N, urea150alone (150 kg N ha−1), urea200alone (200 kg N ha−1), urea150 + S (60 kg ha−1 S from gypsum), urea200 + S, SCU150(sulfur-coated urea) and SCU200. The results showed that the urea150 + S and urea200 + S significantly reduced the total NH3by (58 and 42%) as compared with the sole application urea200. The NH3emission reduced further in the treatment with SCU150and SCU200by 74 and 65%, respectively, compared to the treatment with urea200. The maize plant biomass, grain yield, and total N uptake enhanced by 5–14%, 4–17%, and 7–13, respectively, in the treatments with urea150 + s and urea200 + S, relative to the treatment with urea200alone. Biomass, grain yield, and total N uptake further increased significantly by 22–30%, 25–28%, and 26–31%, respectively, in the treatments with SCU150and SCU200, relative to the treatment with urea200alone. The applications of SCU150enhanced the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) by (72%) and SCU200by (62%) respectively, compared with the sole application of urea200alone. In conclusion, applying S-coated urea at a lower rate of 150 kg N ha−1compared with a higher rate of 200 kg N ha−1may be an effective way to reduce N fertilizer application rate and mitigate NH3emission, improve NUE, and increase maize yield. More investigations are suggested under different soil textures and climatic conditions to declare S-coated urea at 150 kg N ha−1as the best application rate for maize to enhance maize growth and yield.
Bayesian Mendelian randomization with an interval causal null hypothesis: ternary decision rules and loss function calibration
Authors: Zou Linyi , Fazia Teresa , Guo Hui , Berzuini Carlo
Published: January 2024

We enhance the Bayesian Mendelian Randomization (MR) framework of Berzuini et al. (Biostatistics 21(1):86–101, 2018) by allowing for interval null causal hypotheses, where values of the causal effect parameter that fall within a user-specified interval of “practical equivalence” (ROPE) (Kruschke, Adv Methods Pract Psychol Sci 1(2):270–80, 2018) are regarded as equivalent to “no effect”. We motivate this move in the context of MR analysis. In this approach, the decision over the hypothesis test is taken on the basis of the Bayesian posterior odds for the causal effect parameter falling within the ROPE. We allow the causal effect parameter to have a mixture prior, with components corresponding to the null and the alternative hypothesis. Inference is performed via Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. We speed up the calculations by fitting to the data a simpler model than the intended, "true", one. We recover a set of samples from the “true” posterior distribution by weighted importance resampling of the MCMC-generated samples. From the final samples we obtain a simulation consistent estimate of the desired posterior odds, and ultimately of the Bayes factor for the interval-valued null hypothesis, $$H_0$$H0, vs$$H_1$$H1. In those situations where the posterior odds is neither large nor small enough, we allow for anuncertainoutcome of the test decision, thereby moving to a ternary decision logic. Finally, we present an approach to calibration of the proposed method via loss function. We illustrate the method with the aid of a study of the causal effect of obesity on risk of juvenile myocardial infarction based on a unique prospective dataset.
Health estimate differences between six independent web surveys: different web surveys, different results?
Authors: Schnell Rainer , Klingwort Jonas
Published: January 2024

Most general population web surveys are based on online panels maintained by commercial survey agencies. Many of these panels are based on non-probability samples. However, survey agencies differ in their panel selection and management strategies. Little is known if these different strategies cause differences in survey estimates. This paper presents the results of a systematic study designed to analyze the differences in web survey results between agencies. Six different survey agencies were commissioned with the same web survey using an identical standardized questionnaire covering factual health items. Five surveys were fielded at the same time. A calibration approach was used to control the effect of demographics on the outcome. Overall, the results show differences between probability and non-probability surveys in health estimates, which were reduced but not eliminated by weighting. Furthermore, the differences between non-probability surveys before and after weighting are larger than expected between random samples from the same population.
A comparison between different patient groups for diabetes management during phases of the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective cohort study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Senthinathan A. , Tu K. , Stephenson E. , O’Neill B. , Lipscombe L. , Ji C. , Butt D. A. , Apajee J. , Train A. , Crampton N.
Published: January 2024

Background

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the large uptake in virtual care in primary care in Canada, the care of patients with type 2 diabetes has been greatly affected. This includes decreased in-person visits, laboratory testing and in-person assessments such as blood pressure (BP). No studies have investigated if these changes persisted with pandemic progression, and it is unclear if shifts impacted patient groups uniformly. The purpose of this paper was to examine changes in diabetes care pre, early, and later pandemic across different patient groups.

Methods

A repeated cross-sectional design with an open cohort was used to investigate diabetes care in adults with type 2 diabetes for a 6-month interval from March 14 to September 13 over three consecutive years: 2019 (pre-pandemic period), 2020 (early pandemic period), and 2021 (later pandemic period). Data for this study were abstracted from the University of Toronto Practice-Based Research Network (UTOPIAN) Data Safe Haven, a primary care electronic medical records database in Ontario, Canada. Changes in diabetes care, which included primary care total visits, in-person visits, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing, and BP measurements were evaluated across the phases of the pandemic. Difference in diabetes care across patient groups, including age, sex, income quintile, prior HbA1c levels, and prior BP levels, were assessed.

Results

A total of 39,401 adults with type 2 diabetes were included in the study. Compared to the 6-month pre-pandemic period, having any in-person visits decreased significantly early pandemic (OR = 0.079 (0.076–0.082)), with a partial recovery later pandemic (OR = 0.162 (95% CI: 0.157–0.169). Compared to the pre-pandemic period, there was a significant decrease early pandemic for total visits (OR = 0.486 (95% CI: 0.470–0.503)), HbA1c testing (OR = 0.401 (95% CI: 0.389–0.413)), and BP measurement (OR = 0.121 (95% CI: 0.116–0.125)), with partial recovery later pandemic.

Conclusions

All measures of diabetes care were substantially decreased early pandemic, with a partial recovery later pandemic across all patient groups. With the increase in virtual care due to the COVID-19 pandemic, diabetes care has been negatively impacted over 1-year after pandemic onset.
The association between C-reactive protein levels and the risk of kidney stones: a population-based study
Authors: Liang Dan , Liu Chang , Yang Mei
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and the risk of developing kidney stones is unclear, and we aimed to assess the association between CRP and kidney stones in US adults.

Methods

We used data from NHANES 2007–2010, and we excluded participants who were under 18 years of age and lacked data on CRP and kidney stones. Finally, we included a total of 11,033 participants and performed weighted multivariate regression analysis and subgroup analysis to assess the independent relationship between CRP and kidney stones.

Results

The mean prevalence of kidney stones among the participants was 9.8%. Notably, as CRP levels increased, the prevalence of kidney stones exhibited a corresponding rise across quartiles (Kidney stones: Quartile 1: 7.59%; Quartile 2: 8.77%; Quartile 3: 9.64%; Quartile 4: 10.89%). CRP was positively associated with the risk of kidney stones (Model 1: OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01–1.18, p = 0.03; Model 2: OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.00–1.18, p = 0.03, Model 3: OR = 1.14, 95%CI: 1.02–1.26, p = 0.04). Participants in the highest CRP quartile experienced a 69% increased risk of kidney stones compared to those in the lowest quartile (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.04–2.59, p = 0.03). Notably, interaction tests revealed that gender, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, CKD and smoking or alcohol consumption status did not significantly influence the association between CRP and kidney stones.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal a significant association between higher CRP levels and an increased risk of kidney stones. In clinical practice, heightened awareness of CRP as a potential biomarker could aid in risk assessment and management strategies for kidney stone patients.
Exploring the link between self-management of migraine and emotional wellbeing: a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling migraine sufferers
Authors: Filzmoser Nicola , Webber Iman , Kerr Gabriele , Alaa Aos , El Asmar Marie Iine , Karki Manisha , Riboli-Sasco Eva , El-Osta Austen
Published: January 2024

Background

Globally, an estimated 14% of adults live with migraine disease which impacts their physical, emotional and social wellbeing. To target the disease comprehensively, research recommends a multidisciplinary approach to migraine management. Yet, at present, migraine management primarily centers around pharmaceutical treatments. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which emotional awareness could influence the uptake of self-care behaviours of community-dwelling adults with migraine.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey explored personal experiences with migraine disease and strategies or behaviours to manage migraine attacks. Chi-squared tests were used to investigate differences in ratings of migraine prevention and management strategies between users and non-users of the strategies. Univariable logistic regressions were used to assess the effectiveness of self-care behaviours to manage or prevent migraine attacks.

Results

We surveyed 170 community-dwelling adults with migraine in the United Kingdom, Austria, Germany and the United States. Most (85%) respondents had experienced migraine for over five years, where 42% of attacks usually lasted several days. Whereas we did not differentiate between diagnosis by a neurologist or self-diagnosis, the most common diagnoses in the cohort were migraine without aura (38.9%) and migraine with aura (29%). Staying hydrated was the most popular preventative strategy (87%), 70.2% used prescription medication and 64.9% changed their diet and/or supplements. Almost all ( 92.4%) respondents stated that their mood or emotions could trigger their migraine attacks. Keeping a headache or mood diary was the lowest-rated prevention strategy and was rated as "probably ineffective" or causing "no change" in preventing migraine attacks. Over a third (39.7%) kept track of their physical wellbeing and symptoms. Reasons stated for tracking symptoms included to identify triggers (65.8%), show reports to a healthcare professional (59.6%), understand when they must take medication (48.1%), track improvements (67.3%) or deteriorations (67.3%).

Conclusions

Migraine management is dominated by pharmaceutical management for acute pain attacks and lifestyle changes for managing migraine long-term. Perception of the effectiveness of those techniques is high, whereas perception of interventions that target the emotional or psychological components of chronic pain management (keeping a mood diary, and mental health support) is mixed. There exists a gap between the recommended biopsychosocial approach and the current state of migraine management.

Graphical Abstract
Preimplantation genetic testing in couples with balanced chromosome rearrangement: a four-year period real world retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Fan , Ren Jun , Li Yutong , Keqie Yuezhi , Peng Cuiting , Chen Han , Chen Xinlian , Liu Shanling
Published: January 2024

Background

Couples with balanced chromosome rearrangement (BCR) are at high risk of recurrent miscarriages or birth defects due to chromosomally abnormal embryos. This study aimed to provide real-world evidence of the euploidy rate of blastocysts from couples with BCR using preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and to guide pretesting genetic counselling.

Methods

A continuous four-year PGT data from couples with BCR were retrospectively analyzed. Biopsied trophectoderm cells were amplified using whole genome amplification, and next-generation sequencing was performed to detect the chromosomal numerical and segmental aberrations. Clinical data and molecular genetic testing results were analyzed and compared among the subgroups.

Results

A total of 1571 PGT cycles with 5942 blastocysts were performed chromosomal numerical and segmental aberrations detection during the four years. Of them, 1034 PGT cycles with 4129 blastocysts for BCR couples were included; 68.96% (713/1034) PGT cycles had transferable euploid embryos. The total euploidy rate of blastocysts in couples carrying the BCR was 35.29% (1457/4129). Couples with complex BCR had euploid blastocyst rates similar to those of couples with non-complex BCR (46.15% vs. 35.18%, P > 0.05). Chromosome inversion had the highest chance of obtaining a euploid blastocyst (57.27%), followed by Robertsonian translocation (RobT) (46.06%), and the lowest in reciprocal translocation (RecT) (30.11%) (P < 0.05). Couples with males carrying RobT had higher rates of euploid embryo both in each PGT cycles and total blastocysts than female RobT carriers did, despite the female age in male RobT is significant older than those with female RobT (P < 0.05). The proportions of non-carrier embryos were 52.78% (95/180) and 47.06% (40/85) in euploid blastocysts from couples with RecT and RobT, respectively (P > 0.05). RecT had the highest proportion of blastocysts with translocated chromosome-associated abnormalities (74.23%, 1527/2057), followed by RobT (54.60%, 273/500) and inversion (30.85%, 29/94) (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In couples carrying BCR, the total euploidy rate of blastocysts was 35.29%, with the highest in inversion, followed by RobT and RecT. Even in couples carrying complex BCR, the probability of having a transferable blastocyst was 46.15%. Among the euploid blastocysts, the non-carrier ratios in RecT and RobT were 52.78% and 47.06%, respectively. RecT had the highest proportion of blastocysts with translocated chromosome-associated abnormalities.
Early newborn bathing practice and its determinants among postpartum women in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Eyeberu Addis , Getachew Tamirat , Kebad Ayenachew , Debella Adera
Published: January 2024

Background

Early baby bathing has a major negative impact on the newborn's health. Even though early newborn bathing has numerous detrimental effects on neonatal health, evidence has provided little attention on the current level of practice. Furthermore, there is a dearth of data regarding the overall effects of early newborn bathing in Ethiopia, which would be helpful to program and policy designers. This meta-analysis aimed to ascertain the level of early bathing practice and its determinants among postpartum women in Ethiopia.

Methods

All articles were searched from the Web of Sciences, CINAHL (EBOSCO), Science Direct, MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Google websites from inception to October 10, 2023. The meta-analysis was performed using Stata version 18. The summary estimates with 95% CI were estimated using the random effect model with the Der Simonian Liard method. Heterogeneity was explored using Galbraith plot, Cochrane Q statistics, I2 statistics, and test of theta. To deal with the observed heterogeneity, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression were done.

Results

This meta-analysis included a total of 2787 postpartum women. The pooled level of early newborn bathing practice among postpartum women in Ethiopia was 55% [95% CI: 38–71]. Based on subgroup analysis by region, the highest level of early newborn bathing practice was among studies conducted in the Afar region which was 73% (95% CI: 69–77). There is a significant association between maternal level of education and early newborn bathing practice among postpartum women in Ethiopia (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.24, 0.78).

Conclusions

In this meta-analysis, the overall estimate illustrates that more than half of postpartum women practice early newborn bathing in Ethiopia. Maternal level of education was significantly associated with early newborn bathing practice. Thus, both the government and all the concerned stakeholders should take coordinated action to boost information dissemination and awareness creation among postpartum women thereby reducing the practice of early newborn bathing and alleviating consequences of early newborn bathing.